Genie (2023)

Bernard (Essiedu) is struggling. After missing his daughter Eve's (McIntosh) birthday for work, his wife Julie (Benton) and daughter move out. And then he gets fired. He cleans an old box and releases a genie named Flora (McCarthy).

According to Flora, Bernard is able to make as many wishes as he wants. Together they redecorate his apartment, buy presents for Julie and Eve, and try to figure out what he actually wants in life. Can Bernard and Flora find a way to repair his life?

Remake of the 1991 BBC TV movie, "Bernard and the Genie", written by Richard Curtis. Curtis also wrote this film.

The Good:

This is a funny holiday film. Melissa McCarthy is a charismatic lead and also embraces the physical comedy of the role. She has good chemistry with Paapa Essiedu.

The Bad:

Thr chemistry in Bernard's family (wife and daughter). They are a big point in the film, but aren't memorable.

Other Comments:

-Alan Cumming played Bernard in the TV movie. Here he plays the boss, Mr. Flaxman.

-The scene with Bernard's family was great: 

Ellen Cleghorne as his mother, Oberon Adjepong as his father, Ego Nwodim as his sister Dianna, John Reynolds as Dianna's husband Marvin, and Nyasha Hatendi as his brother Pete.

-Marc Maron is funny as Lenny the doorman.

-This is an enjoyable Christmas film that you can enjoy as a family and laugh at.

Genie (2023) 93 minutes

Director: Sam Boyd

Starring: Melissa McCarthy as Flora

Paapa Essiedu as Bernard

Denée Benton as Julie

Jordyn McIntosh as Eve

Alan Cumming as Flaxman

Marc Maron as Lenny