Watch Celebration Family

Celebration Family is a heartwarming family drama film from 1987 that centers on a family that lives in a small town in the United States. The film features a talented ensemble cast that includes Royce D. Applegate, Ed Begley Jr., and Olivia Burnette, among others. The film follows the trials and tribulations of the Dantley family, who are dealing with a range of personal and familial issues.

The head of the family, James Dantley (Applegate), is a successful businessman who becomes obsessed with his work and neglects his family. His wife, Alice (Patricia Barry), is left to hold the family together, struggling to balance her family and professional responsibilities. James' neglect has a significant impact on his children, especially his rebellious daughter, Casey (Burnette), who becomes increasingly distant from her family.

As the holidays approach, the Dantley family comes together to celebrate Christmas but struggles to maintain their festive spirit amidst the tension and conflict. The family members must confront their personal issues and work through their differences to rebuild their relationship.

In addition to the Dantley family's internal struggles, the film also deals with broader societal issues, such as racial prejudice and environmental concerns. One of James' business partners (Begley Jr.) is a staunch environmentalist who stands up against James' company's plans to build a factory that would harm the local environment. This subplot brings an important environmental message to the audience and adds a layer of depth to the film's themes.

The film's cast excels in bringing the characters to life, with Applegate delivering a standout performance as a workaholic father who must learn to prioritize his family. Burnette also shines in her role as a rebellious teenager who is struggling with growing pains and the challenges of family dynamics.

The film's pacing and script are well-constructed, with good dialogue and a strong narrative that holds the viewer's interest throughout. The film's direction is also commendable, with director Brian Morgan effectively weaving together the various threads of the film's complex narrative.

While Celebration Family is undeniably sentimental and may be viewed by some as cheesy, the film has a genuine heart and an affecting message that is still relevant today. The film's optimistic and hopeful tone is infectious, making it a great holiday movie for those looking for a heartwarming family drama.

In conclusion, Celebration Family is a well-made family drama that deftly deals with personal and societal issues. The film's talented cast, strong directing, and engaging narrative make it a worthwhile watch for those interested in heartwarming family dramas. Despite its age, the film's themes and messages are still relevant today, making it a timeless addition to the holiday movie canon.