Finding Father Christmas (2025 film)

British Christmas film

Finding Father ChristmasWritten byMark ChappellDirected byAnthony WilcoxStarring Lenny Rush James Buckley Greg Davies Asim Chaudhry Rochenda Sandall Ele McKenzie Stephen Fry Hannah Fry Maggie Aderin-Pocock Country of originUnited KingdomOriginal languageEnglishProductionProducerSpencer MillmanRunning time90 minutesProduction companies Big Talk Studios South Shore Productions Original releaseNetworkChannel 4Release24 December 2025 (2025-12-24) Finding Father Christmas is a British Christmas family television film for Channel 4, starring Lenny Rush with an ensemble cast featuring James Buckley, Greg Davies, Asim Chaudhry, Stephen Fry, Hannah Fry and Maggie Aderin-Pocock. It was broadcast on Channel 4 on 24 December 2025.

[edit] A teenager who refuses to give-up on the idea of Father Christmas goes to great lengths to prove that he is real.

[edit] Lenny Rush as Chris James Buckley as Dad Greg Davies as Father Christmas Asim Chaudhry as Garden Centre Father Christmas Rochenda Sandall as Georgina Ele McKenzie as Holly Stephen Fry as himself Hannah Fry as herself Maggie Aderin-Pocock as herself Jason Fox as himself Marek Larwood as Security Guard

[edit] The one-off drama is written by Mark Chappell and produced by Big Talk Studios and co-produced by South Shore Productions. Anthony Wilcox is the director with Spencer Millman as producer. It is executive produced by Kenton Allen, Luke Alkin, and Toby Welch for Big Talk Studios, Mark Chappell, and Andrew Mackenzie for South Shore Productions. Filmed with the working title Dear Father Christmas, in December 2025, the title was confirmed to be Finding Father Christmas. The ensemble cast is led by Lenny Rush, and also features James Buckley, Asim Chaudhry, Stephen Fry, Hannah Fry and Maggie Aderin-Pocock as well as Jason Fox and Rochenda Sandall, with Greg Davies as the title character.

[edit] Ben Dowell in The Times awarded the film four stars, praising the script and suggesting it as "a Christmas story for the secular age", with Lenny Rush "undeniably dazzling”. Frances Ryan in The Guardian praised the chemistry between Rush and James Buckley, awarding three stars to the film, feeling it lacked a little "emotional punch". Patrick Smith for The Independent said that the "celebrity cameos work well enough" but that Rush "brings infectious optimism…without ever tipping into the mawkish – a high-wire act when your entire character is predicated on teenage belief in Santa Claus" and that Rush "locates the fine line between endearing and insufferable and walks it with the confidence of a seasoned pro."

The line‑up reads like a who’s‑who of beloved British talent, and that alone turns the film into a seasonal gathering point. Lenny Rush, already a favourite for his endearing performances, brings a genuine child‑like wonder that anchors the story. The presence of comedy veterans James Buckley and Greg Davies adds a slap‑slap between cheeky humour and heartfelt moments, while Stephen and Hannah Fry lend a touch of intellectual charm that appeals to adult viewers. Even astrophysicist‑turned‑presenter Maggie Aderin‑Pocock appears, signalling the programme’s willingness to blend education with entertainment. This eclectic roster ensures there’s something for every family member, transforming a simple TV slot into a shared, multi‑generational tradition.

Since the film airs just once on Channel 4, plan a viewing ritual ahead of time. Gather the family around the telly, but consider a staggered start: let the kids settle with a cosy blanket and a mug of cocoa while the adults queue up any complementary snacks. Keep the remote handy for a quick pause to discuss the whimsical twists – a brief chat can turn fleeting jokes into lasting family anecdotes. If you miss the live slot, check the channel’s catch‑up service; many British broadcasters keep holiday specials online for a limited window, giving you a second chance without the pressure of a real‑time watch.

While the film’s star power draws eyes, its deeper appeal lies in the subtle nods to British holiday customs. Look out for the understated references to mince‑pie debates, the classic "wassail" toast, and the cameo of a local choir singing lesser‑known carols – all of which ground the narrative in authentic seasonal culture. These details reward attentive viewers and spark conversation about regional traditions that might otherwise be forgotten. By spotlighting everyday festive rituals rather than grandiose spectacle, the movie invites audiences to appreciate the simple, shared moments that truly define a British Christmas.