That Christmas

In the seaside town of Wellington-on-Sea, the townsfolk gear up for Christmas festivities. The spirit of the holiday fills the air as everyone begins their preparations, setting the stage for a unique holiday season.

Bernadette McNutt, a local rebel, decides to put a more liberal spin on the annual school Christmas play. Her decision does not sit well with many parents, showcasing the clash of traditions and modern values in the community.

Danny Williams, a shy newcomer adapting to his parents' recent divorce, grapples with his feelings for Sam Beccles. His distractions almost make him miss his cue during the school play, indicating his internal conflict and struggle for acceptance.

While biking home, Charlie Beccles teases her twin sister Sam about her fears, creating an atmosphere of sibling rivalry. This playful interaction shows the dynamics of their relationship while navigating their childhood experiences.

The following morning, as the children enjoy playing in the snow, Mrs. Williams unknowingly sends Danny to school despite it being closed due to weather conditions. This miscommunication highlights the chaotic nature of life in Wellington-on-Sea during the holiday season.

The McNutts, the Forrests, and Mrs. Mulji coordinate to have Bernadette watch the kids while they attend a wedding. This arrangement reflects the close-knit nature of the community, and their reliance on one another during festive times.

Charlie pulls a prank on a neighbor that she believes is mean to her dog, prompting a scolding from their mother. This moment signifies the playful yet mischievous nature of childhood and leads to further conflict between the sisters.

On Christmas Eve, the Beccles must retrieve turkey from Farmer Yirrell amidst a blizzard, showcasing the challenges of holiday traditions. Charlie tries to free the turkeys while Sam distracts the farmer, leading to a chaotic chase filled with tension and sibling loyalty.

After the adults struggle to return home through a snowstorm, they inform the children that they will be late. This unexpected delay creates a sense of uncertainty for the kids, leading to various emotional responses and interactions among them.

As the children fall asleep, Santa arrives in Wellington, secretly leaving behind gifts tailored to their behaviors. This magical moment brings hope and wonder, but also confusion as he mixes up the presents for the twin sisters.

On Christmas Day, the twins discover their gifts, leading to joyous celebrations. However, Charlie grapples with the realization that she must give her sister her due gifts, showcasing the themes of generosity and sibling love.

As the parents struggle to return home from the wedding, they enlist help from the community to ensure safety. This moment demonstrates the strength of community bonds and personal sacrifices during challenging times.

Danny's initiative to use the lighthouse to signal rescuers showcases maturity beyond his years. His actions ultimately lead to the safe return of stranded parents, earning him recognition as a hero in the eyes of his peers and the community.

After a frantic search, Bernadette finds her sister Evie, who has taken shelter with several turkeys. Her emotional reunion with Evie reinforces family bonds and the importance of protecting loved ones, especially during distressing times.

In the aftermath of the snowstorm, the townsfolk gather for a swim in the ocean on Boxing Day. This event symbolizes resilience and community spirit as they come together to celebrate amidst the challenges faced during the holiday season.