Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey Review: Filled With Magic & Wonder

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey is a movie filled with wonder and magic! It is the perfect holiday film that will have the whole family in the Christmas mood!

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey is movie that is sure to put the whole family in the Christmas mood! Filled with magic, wonder, and some really incredible music — don’t worry, I have been assured there will be a soundtrack! My whole family enjoyed this movie from beginning to end. The moment it started I knew that it was going to be a film we watched time and time again. 

This movie encompasses so much, but does it perfectly so that it isn’t muddled or confusing. Jingle Jangle gives off lessons of hope, of being yourself, and of love — not only for kids but for adults too! There is holiday magic, beautiful costumes, catchy music, and a really good story that will have you glued to the screen. You will laugh, cry, sing, and dance! Trust me!

STEM Is A Huge Part Of It

One of my absolute favorite things about this movie is the incorporation of STEM (Science, Math, Engineering, Technology). My husband is an engineer by trade so we are very big on STEM in our home. We are always trying to find toys, games, and activities that encourage creativity and STEM learning. 

In Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey, Journey is different than a lot of other kids in that she loves math and inventing. My daughters both enjoy these things as well, thanks to their father, so it meant a lot for them to see someone who feels the same about those things as them in the movie.

A Phenomenal Cast

I cannot discuss this movie without talking about the incredible cast — several of which are newcomers. I was completely blown away by the singing in this film. The music is not only catchy, it is beautifully sung. There is no way I could even pull off those notes — or those dance moves. But I sure did try with my kiddos as we danced around the living room while watching Jingle Jangle.

This movie stars acting legends like Forest Whitaker, Anika Noni Rose, Phylicia Rashad, and Keegan-Michael Key. Get ready to be swept away to a land of wonder and forget about the real world for a couple hours — which honestly is something we could all use right now. 

If you know me, you know that I love a good villain — and Keegan Michael key is fantastically evil! He sent shivers right down my spine a few times. Madalen Mills, who plays Journey, and Kieron Dyer, who plays Edison, are some of the best child actors I have ever seen, hands down. They have great chemistry and I truly loved both of their characters.

Oh, and don’t get me started on Lisa Davina Phillip, Ms. Johnston, who provides all sorts of comic relief. She had me cracking up every time I saw her on screen! She seems like someone I would want as a friend because she is bubbly, fun, and you can tell she always has a good time!

Overall Thoughts

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey is a movie that the whole family is sure to love. It is going to be one of those films that is enjoyed generation after generation — mark my words. If you have particularly sensitive kids, keep in mind there is some death early on. However, the magic, wonder, and beauty will have them movie past that quickly. 

If I had to pick at this movie I would say that it feels like a stage show. That isn’t exactly a bad thing though. There is some MEH wire work and some of the songs go on a bit too long, as does the movie, but overall, Jingle Jangle is a fun and magical movie.

There are so many fantastic things about this movie but most of all, I appreciate the lessons it teaches. Even when you feel like there is no hope at all, there is. Always believe — in yourself, in others, and in magic. Jingle Jangle is sure to warm even the coldest of hearts. And don’t worry, there IS a soundtrack available! 

Read about my interview with the Jingle Jangle cast and filmmakers.

About Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey

A musical adventure and a visual spectacle for the ages, Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey is a wholly fresh and spirited family holiday event. Set in the gloriously vibrant town of Cobbleton, the film follows legendary toymaker Jeronicus Jangle (Academy Award winner Forest Whitaker) whose fanciful inventions burst with whimsy and wonder.

But when his trusted apprentice (Emmy winner Keegan-Michael Key) steals his most prized creation, it’s up to his equally bright and inventive granddaughter (newcomer Madalen Mills) – and a long-forgotten invention – to heal old wounds and reawaken the magic within.

From the imagination of writer-director David E. Talbert and featuring original songs by John Legend, Philip Lawrence, Davy Nathan, and “This Day” performed by Usher and Kiana Ledé, Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey reminds us of the strength of family and the power of possibility.

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey comes to Netflix on November 13th!