Joy to the World (2025)

Review Team

4/5

Joy to the World is an enchanting holiday film that manages to blend humour with genuine emotional depth. Directed by Jerry Ciccoritti, the film showcases the struggles of lifestyle guru Joy Edwards, played with remarkable warmth and authenticity. The premise of her needing a fake husband for a tele ... Show more >> Joy to the World is an enchanting holiday film that manages to blend humour with genuine emotional depth. Directed by Jerry Ciccoritti, the film showcases the struggles of lifestyle guru Joy Edwards, played with remarkable warmth and authenticity. The premise of her needing a fake husband for a televised Christmas dinner might sound cliché, yet it unfolds into a charming exploration of friendship and self-discovery. The chemistry between Joy and her best friend Max adds layers to the narrative, making their journey not just about maintaining appearances but also about confronting their true feelings. The film is visually delightful, capturing the essence of a festive celebration while reminding us that perfection is often a façade. It's a heartwarming watch that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt the pressure to present an ideal life. Show less

Editor Team

3.5/5

While Joy to the World delivers on the festive cheer one expects from a holiday film, it occasionally stumbles under the weight of its own premise. Jerry Ciccoritti's direction is competent, but the film sometimes feels like it relies too heavily on familiar tropes of the genre. Joy Edwards, played ... Show more >> While Joy to the World delivers on the festive cheer one expects from a holiday film, it occasionally stumbles under the weight of its own premise. Jerry Ciccoritti's direction is competent, but the film sometimes feels like it relies too heavily on familiar tropes of the genre. Joy Edwards, played with charm, is a relatable character, yet her journey feels predictable at times. The comedic moments are well-timed, but the film's emotional beats can come off as contrived. Nevertheless, the performances, particularly the dynamic between Joy and Max, provide enough spark to keep viewers engaged. Ultimately, Joy to the World is an enjoyable, if not groundbreaking, addition to the holiday film landscape, capturing the spirit of the season while reminding us of the importance of authenticity. Show less