There’s something disarmingly honest about "Disaster Holiday," Netflix’s 2024 festive comedy from Burnt Onion Productions. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel—it’s just here to have some fun, with mixed results. As the curtain rises on Kenneth Nkosi’s Joseph Ngema—a man who promises his family an exotic Zanzibar holiday but delivers a Durban detour—you’re instantly aware of what you’ve signed up for: chaos with a sprinkling of charm. Whether that charm sticks depends largely on your threshold for predictable hijinks and saccharine endings.
Let’s start with what the movie gets right. Kenneth Nkosi delivers a performance that’s both relatable and endearing. As Joseph, he’s a portrait of every parent trying (and failing) to juggle too many balls at once. His scenes with his onscreen kids (played by Kopano Mahlasi and Lubabalo Tala) are some of the film’s best, capturing the chaotic energy of family road trips with hilarious accuracy. Nkosi’s comedic timing keeps the film afloat, even when the script occasionally wades into shallow waters.
The supporting cast is equally delightful. Lunathi Mampofu shines as Nandi, Joseph’s perpetually skeptical wife who sees through his well-meaning but poorly executed plans. Meanwhile, Tina Jaxa as Dora, Joseph’s ex-wife, brings an enjoyable dose of sass and tension to the family dynamic. The film’s wildcard, however, is Deli Malinga’s Ma Rosie, a larger-than-life character whose eccentricity adds an unexpected twist to the already chaotic journey. These performances inject the film with a sense of heart, ensuring that even its weaker moments are propped up by genuine talent.
Visually, "Disaster Holiday" makes great use of its South African setting. Durban’s coastal charm lends itself well to the film’s breezy tone, and the cinematography does justice to its picturesque locales. There’s a warmth to the film’s look that complements its festive release date, and while it doesn’t break new ground visually, it’s certainly easy on the eyes.
That said, "Disaster Holiday" has its fair share of pitfalls. The film’s premise—dad hides work obligations under the guise of family fun—is fertile ground for comedy, but the execution often feels uneven. The humor leans heavily on slapstick and over-the-top scenarios, which, while occasionally funny, can feel exhausting when piled one after the other. Some jokes land beautifully, like a running gag about a misplaced map, while others flop, veering dangerously close to cringe territory. The tonal shifts don’t help either, as the film oscillates between lighthearted comedy and attempts at the heartfelt drama that don’t always hit the mark.
The script is another mixed bag. Written by Rethabile Ramaphakela, it’s full of potential that’s only partially realized. There are glimpses of sharp, insightful commentary on work-life balance and the pressures of modern parenthood, but these moments are often overshadowed by clichés and predictability. By the time the film reaches its climax—an over-the-top sequence involving a high-stakes work presentation gone hilariously wrong—you can’t help but wish the story had taken more risks.
Pacing is also an issue. At 93 minutes, the film’s runtime feels both too short and too long. Some scenes drag on unnecessarily, while others rush through moments that could have benefited from more depth. It’s a balancing act that "Disaster Holiday" doesn’t quite master, leaving the film feeling uneven.
Despite these flaws, there’s an undeniable charm to "Disaster Holiday" that’s hard to ignore. It’s the cinematic equivalent of a cheesy holiday sweater: you’re fully aware of its shortcomings, but there’s something comforting about it nonetheless. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, and its earnestness goes a long way in making up for its shortcomings.
For all its flaws, "Disaster Holiday" succeeds in one crucial aspect: it’s a family film that’s genuinely family-friendly. There’s no crude humor or inappropriate content to sidestep, making it an easy choice for a wholesome movie night. Kids will enjoy the slapstick humor, parents will relate to the family dynamics, and everyone will appreciate the film’s underlying message about the importance of prioritizing loved ones over career ambitions.
Would I recommend "Disaster Holiday"? That depends. If you’re looking for groundbreaking cinema or biting comedy, this isn’t it. But if you’re in the mood for a light, festive romp with heart, it’s worth a watch. It’s the kind of movie that works best with low expectations and a big bowl of popcorn.
"Disaster Holiday" may not be a cinematic masterpiece, but it has its moments. It’s funny, heartfelt, and just chaotic enough to keep you entertained. Yes, it’s predictable, and yes, some of the jokes miss the mark, but it’s also brimming with warmth and sincerity. In the end, much like its protagonist, it stumbles a lot but manages to land on its feet—and sometimes, that’s enough.
Final Score- [5/10]
Reviewed by - Anjali Sharma
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Publisher at Midgard Times