A Savage Christmas
A Savage Christmas is a 2023 Australian comedy drama film directed by Madeleine Dyer, and starring Darren Gilshenan and Helen Thomson.[9] Peter Walkden of Walkden Entertainment praised the film and awarded it seven stars, noting that "Right from the start, I found myself grinning like a young child and enjoying the numerous awkward moments shared among the multiple characters", adding that the film "carries entertaining moments of conflict and drama while being playful and slightly wacky, even more so whenever actors Darren Gilshenan and Gary Sweet appear on-screen."[10] Andrew Peirce of The Curb wrote, "A Savage Christmas is a ridiculously funny and brilliantly scripted comedy that feels like a breath of fresh air", highlighting that "screen legends David Roberts, Helen Thomson, and Darren Gilshenan balance the bonkers with the grounded.The explosion of emotions in the final scenes are hilarious and the poignant themes, which include the importance of forgiveness and family, are relatable and should resonate with audiences."[12] Carla Huyssen of Theatre Haus summarised the film as "A little slow at times and relying on its’ more accomplished cast members, ‘A Savage Christmas’ packs a punch about equality and gender diversity, and leaves audiences with the notion that in the end, we’re all a little bit broken.