Christmas Karma is a 2025 British musical comedy-drama that reimagines Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol in modern, multicultural London. It is written and directed by Gurinder Chadha, who also produced the film.
The ensemble cast is led by Kunal Nayyar, with Eva Longoria, Billy Porter, Boy George, Charithra Chandran, Hugh Bonneville, Pixie Lott, and Danny Dyer among the supporting players.
The film follows Mr. Sood, a wealthy British-Asian businessman who despises refugees, as three spectral guides force him to face his past, present, and a bleak future.
Christmas Karma leans into a Bollywood-inspired musical style and features original music contributions from artists across genres, blending bhangra, gospel, carols, and pop. The film is scheduled to open in UK cinemas on November 14, 2025, and its official trailer is available online.
Christmas Karma Age Rating
Christmas Karma is rated PG for thematic material, some violence, scary images, language, and suggestive references. The PG label means parental guidance is advised; some scenes may be unsuitable for young children. The rating reflects mild-to-moderate adult themes and a few brief scenes that may frighten or confuse very young viewers.
Violence & Peril
Violence is limited and non-graphic. Physical threats and tense confrontations occur, but there is no prolonged gore. Scary images appear in the “future” sequences, creating brief, unsettling moments. Overall, action and danger are used to underline moral consequences rather than to shock.
Language
Language is generally mild to moderate for a family PG film. Expect some casual profanity and a few stronger words in heated moments. Racial or ethnic slurs are not a focal point; the film addresses prejudice mainly through character choices and social context. Dialogue conveys emotional intensity but avoids sustained strong language.
Mature Themes
The film tackles adult themes such as xenophobia, refugee experiences, worker exploitation, and redemption. Smoking, suggestive references, and brief romantic moments appear, but nudity and explicit sexual content are absent. The story includes scenes about poverty and trauma, framed to encourage empathy and conversation rather than sensationalize harm.
Is Christmas Karma Suitable for Teens?
Ages 7–11: With Guidance. Younger children may enjoy the musical numbers and color, but some scary images and the themes of prejudice may upset them. Parents should watch first and be ready to explain the story’s moral arc.
Ages 12–14: Yes, with discussion. Early teens can follow the plot and enjoy songs, but caregivers should prepare to discuss refugees, workplace fairness, and prejudice. This age group benefits from post-movie conversations about empathy.
Ages 15–17: Yes. Older teens will grasp the satire, social commentary, and musical style. The film works as a springboard for discussions on civic responsibility, migration, and labor practices.
Final recommendation: Christmas Karma is broadly family-friendly but best suited to ages 12 and up when paired with parental discussion. For children under 12, previewing first is recommended.
What Parents Can Do
- Watch the film with your child and pause to explain scenes about refugees and work conditions. Frame the movie as a story about change and empathy.
- Prepare context about refugees and zero-hour contracts so teens understand the social issues shown. Use simple current examples to make it relatable.
- After viewing, ask open questions: “Why did Mr. Sood change?” and “How can people help others in our community?” Encourage practical ideas for kindness.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Christmas Karma?
A: Christmas Karma is rated PG for thematic material, some violence, scary images, language, and suggestive references.
Q: Is Christmas Karma appropriate for kids and teens?
A: Older children and teens (12+) will likely enjoy it, especially with parental guidance. Younger children may find some images or themes upsetting.
Q: Are there scary scenes or violence?
A: There are brief scary images and non-graphic peril in the “future” sequences. Violence is mild and used narratively.
Q: Does the film contain strong language or slurs?
A: Language is generally mild to moderate. The film addresses prejudice through character behaviour, not through pervasive slurs.
Q: Is there sexual content or nudity?
A: No explicit sexual content or nudity. There are suggestive references and mild romantic moments.
Q: Where and when can I watch the film?
A: Christmas Karma is scheduled in UK cinemas from November 14, 2025; check local listings for exact dates.