“Christmas Trade” is a delightful and funny movie that features a plot that audiences can enjoy anytime of the year. In a nod to “Freaky Friday,” attorney and workaholic widower dad Mitch Taylor (William Baldwin) butts heads with his 12-year-old son Robbie (Michael Campion). Due to the magic of a teddy bear, they switch bodies, and Robbie gains his dad’s adult body while Mitch takes on pre-adolescence while he’s in Robbie’s body. This opens the door for some comedic moments.
William Baldwin is hilarious as Robbie, still in an adult body, but with a 12-year-old mentality. He spits out coffee, slurps an apple juice box at an important meeting, and shouts out lines like, “I’m freaking out!” He also plays soccer with the kids in the neighborhood and almost falls off the treadmill while working out with his girlfriend, Chloe. His performance is funny with a capital “F.”
As Mitch has to go to school as Robbie, he learns more about Robbie’s world, including dealing with a bully. Meanwhile, Robbie learns more about his dad’s world when he has to deal with a difficult-to-please boss named Trish (Jennifer Grant). Mitch’s and Robbie’s hopes are attached to the teddy bear repairman, Gus (Tom Arnold), who can hopefully get the broken bear to light up and talk again, and — with some Christmas magic — help them switch back to their rightful bodies.
This touching film shows why people should view the world from another person’s point of view. We are pleased to present this warm holiday family film our Dove Seal for ages 12-plus, although some parents may be fine with their younger children watching it. Consult our content listing to make an informed decision, and enjoy the laughs!