Five Point Fix

1 The best Christmas films empathise deeply with sadness, for time passed or loneliness. Feel that sorrow.

2 Waltz with the schmaltz. Don’t hide what you are, but treat seasonal sentimentality with care.

3 Roast the heart like chestnuts. Not in a gory way, though that can work, too.

4 ’Tis the season to be jolly, but keep the comedy subtle and character-driven, as in A Christmas Story.

5 Get a great director on it. A Chris Nolan Christmas movie – come on, who wouldn’t watch?