If Christmas turns out to be especially chaotic—but also heartwarming and very funny—this year, Gery Seidl has something to do with it. In his first leading role on the big screen, the cabaret artist and audience favorite plays the construction foreman Andi. It’s not exactly a laid-back job—he’s juggling work and life, dealing with an impatient boss (Roland Düringer) and even more impatient Chinese clients breathing down his neck. The timing couldn’t be worse, as he has a lot of attention to make up for with his wife Steffi (Marlene Morreis) and stepdaughter Alma (Mia Plamberger). So he promises to create a truly special Christmas idyll. He swears to it—once again—but this time with all his heart. Of course, everything turns out differently than planned. Competitive pressure in the construction industry, family expectations, and the surprising realization that gifts are also expected pile up into a crazy mix of being overwhelmed and the best of intentions. The fact that his wife and daughter then dash off to the Waldviertel to visit his strict mother-in-law (Maria Hofstätter) because they need “structure” doesn’t make things any easier. Andi has to prove himself. He wants to take charge of all the Christmas preparations, as is proper—with a big tree and everyone’s favorite dessert. And who knows, maybe even a white Christmas. And not to forget: the right decorations! All this despite the fact that 280 toilet doors are stuck at customs and the tree he ordered has gone missing. His buddy Bertl (Thomas Mraz) promises active support but ends up causing even more chaos. Director Claudia Jüptner-Jonstorff (*GREECE*) brings a turbulent yet heartwarming Christmas comedy to theaters, offering a completely different take on the season of love. It features situational comedy, affectionate jabs, and plenty of laughs—along with subtle nuances when it comes to family, loss, and togetherness in a frantic time. A fantastic ensemble of popular stars from the Austrian film and cabaret scene gathers around Gery Seidl: Thomas Mraz, Thomas Stipsits, Roland Düringer, Maria Hofstätter, Heinz Marecek, Lisa Eckhart, Adele Neuhauser, Johannes Silberschneider, Erika Mottl, Christopher Seiler, Michi Buchinger, Okan Cömert, Stefano Bernardin, Anthony Curtis Kirby, Angelika Niedetzky, and many more. AUFPUTZT IS uses humor to explore the theme of falling short of one’s own expectations—and the idea that Christmas might just work out when absolutely nothing else does. Along the way, there’s room to feel a little touched as well. The film for everyone who loves, hates, or simply wants to survive Christmas. (Heidi List)