Four Christmases

Four Christmases

Year: 2008

Runtime: 88 min

Language: English

Director: Seth Gordon

DramaComedyRomance

A sudden travel disruption on Christmas Day throws Brad and Kate’s carefully planned holiday escape into chaos. They find themselves unexpectedly confronting the eccentric families they’re been avoiding, one after another. Stranded at the airport, this couple must navigate the hilarious and overwhelming situation, discovering the importance of family and the true spirit of Christmas along the way.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Four Christmases (2008)

Trace every key event in Four Christmases (2008) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Brad and Kate's Decision

Brad and Kate, a couple living in San Francisco, decide to escape the holiday chaos by pretending to engage in charitable work. They plan a trip to Fiji, hoping to inform their families of their absence without conflict.

Before the trip San Francisco
2

Flight Disruption

Their plans take a turn when thick fog disrupts their flights, leaving them stranded at the airport. This unexpected delay leads to an interview with a television reporter who broadcasts their real intentions.

At the airport Airport
3

Facing the Families

With their ruse exposed, Brad and Kate are forced to confront their families much sooner than they anticipated. This marks the beginning of a chaotic holiday filled with family dynamics and emotional tension.

Immediate after the interview
4

Visit to Brad's Father

Their first stop is a visit to Brad's father, where they navigate through the chaotic interactions with siblings and extended family members. The tension continues to build as familial expectations weigh heavily on both them.

Brad's father's house
5

Visit to Kate's Mother

Next, they visit Kate's mother, where more family drama unfolds. Each encounter is filled with revelations that challenge their relationship and expose the dysfunction from their pasts.

Kate's mother's house
6

Climactic Meeting with Brad's Mother

The couple's journey culminates in a tense meeting with Brad’s mother. Here, they discover that her new partner is actually Brad’s childhood best friend, escalating the awkwardness and anxiety.

Brad's mother's house
7

Taking the Pregnancy Test

Amidst the familial chaos, Kate impulsively decides to take a pregnancy test. When the test turns out negative, it leads to a significant rift between her and Brad as hidden truths begin to surface.

8

Uncovering Personal Truths

As their relationship unravels, they disclose personal secrets, such as Brad’s real name, 'Orlando', and details from Kate’s troubled childhood. These revelations deepen the complexity of their bond.

9

Brad's Reflection with His Father

Brad finds a moment of solace with his father, which allows him to reflect on his upbringing and fears of repeating his father's mistakes. This moment of clarity influences his perspective on commitment.

Brad's father's house
10

Kate's Discovery of Her Father's Life

Meanwhile, Kate visits her father's home alone, gaining insights into his reconciliation with his ex-wife for the sake of a harmonious family Christmas. This experience influences her understanding of familial ties.

Kate's father's house
11

Revisiting the Marriage Discussion

After navigating through a tumultuous holiday, Brad and Kate have a serious conversation about marriage and starting a family. Their past experiences now weigh heavily on their thoughts, shaping their desires.

Post-holiday
12

Welcoming Their Daughter

A year later, Brad and Kate welcome their first child, a daughter, into their lives. They choose to keep this joyous news secret from their families for nine months, fostering a sense of intimacy.

One year later
13

The Big Reveal

The secret about their daughter is finally unveiled when a news crew arrives on New Year's Day to congratulate them. This unexpected visit brings their families together again, celebrating new beginnings.

New Year's Day

Last Updated: November 19, 2024 at 16:03

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Four Christmases Summary

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Four Christmases Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Four Christmases

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Four Christmases

More About Four Christmases

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