Noelle (2019) Review – A Charming, Cozy Disney+ Surprise

🎬 Introduction — Christmas Cheer Personified

If you could distill the feeling of a warm cup of cocoa into a person, it would be Anna Kendrick in Noelle. This Disney+ launch title didn't get a massive theatrical release, and that’s a shame, because it’s one of the most pleasant, easy-to-watch Christmas movies of the last decade.

It’s a classic "fish out of water" story mixed with a "save Christmas" plot. Kendrick plays Noelle Kringle, the daughter of Santa, who has spent her whole life in the North Pole bubble. When her brother Nick (Bill Hader) crumbles under the pressure of taking over the family business and flees to Phoenix, Arizona, Noelle has to go find him.

For a dad, this is the ultimate "low stakes, high vibes" movie. There are no terrifying villains, no dark subplots, just a lot of jokes about reindeer, yoga, and the true meaning of giving. It’s the cinematic equivalent of a soft blanket.

Noelle Soundtrack (Digital)

Stream the Original Noelle Motion Picture Soundtrack.

🧠 Story & Themes — Tradition vs. Talent

The story tackles a surprisingly relevant theme: imposter syndrome and the weight of legacy. Nick Kringle is terrified of being Santa because he knows he’s not good at it. He’s anxious, clumsy, and hates sliding down chimneys. Noelle, meanwhile, has all the skills—the language, the empathy, the chimney-sliding technique—but she’s a girl, so nobody considers her for the job.

It handles this gender-swap angle gently. It’s not an angry movie; it’s a movie about recognizing talent where it lies, regardless of tradition. It teaches kids that just because "it's always been done this way" doesn't mean it has to be done this way.

The Phoenix section of the movie, where Noelle interacts with "normal" people, offers some sweet commentary on the cynicism of the modern world versus the innocence of Christmas. Her interactions with a private investigator (played by the charming Kingsley Ben-Adir) and his son ground the fantasy in some real human connection.

🎭 Characters & Performances — Kendrick is Key

Let’s be clear: this movie lives or dies on Anna Kendrick. And she kills it. She brings a manic, wide-eyed energy that is hilarious without being exhausting. Her delivery of lines like "Yogurt is not a meal, it's a bacterial infection" is perfect. She sells the earnestness of an elf in the real world.

Bill Hader is, as always, funny, but in a much more understated way. He plays the "reluctant Santa" with a nervous energy that contrasts well with Kendrick’s confidence. Shirley MacLaine shows up as a grumpy elf nanny, adding a bit of old-school Hollywood class to the proceedings.

But the real scene-stealer might be the CGI baby reindeer, Snowcone. It’s adorable, expressive, and provides some of the best visual gags.

🎨 Visual Style, Animation & Audio — Eye Candy

This is a great looking movie. The North Pole sets are incredible—a mix of cozy Scandinavian hygge and candy-colored fantasy. The costumes are fantastic, full of rich velvets, intricate embroidery, and festive patterns. It looks expensive and magical.

The contrast between the cool, blue-and-white North Pole and the sunny, beige Phoenix desert is a nice visual touch. It emphasizes Noelle’s isolation.

Musically, it’s full of orchestral swells and Christmas standards. It feels "Disney" in the best way—polished, professional, and designed to push your emotional buttons.

👨‍👧 The Dad Perspective — Stress-Free Viewing

Runtime: 1 hour 40 minutes. Standard comedy length. It moves briskly.

Suitability: This is G-rated territory in spirit. There is zero violence, no bad language, and the "scariest" thing that happens is Santa getting arrested for a misunderstanding (which is played for laughs). It is safe for toddlers, grandmas, and everyone in between.

The "Vibe": It’s a great palate cleanser. If you’ve just watched Die Hard or Bad Santa and need to restore some wholesome energy to the house, this is the one. It’s optimistic and kind.

Rewatch Value: It’s becoming a staple for us because it’s so easy. You don't need to pay 100% attention to follow it, but whenever you look up, something cute or funny is happening.

✅ Pros & Cons

🗣️ Conclusion

Noelle isn't trying to reinvent the wheel; it’s just trying to be a really nice, shiny wheel. And it succeeds. It’s a movie that wears its heart on its sleeve (and its tinsel in its hair).

For families, it’s a no-brainer. It’s colorful, funny, and has a great message for daughters about their potential. It’s the kind of movie that leaves you feeling a little bit lighter than when you started. And at Christmas, that’s exactly what we need.

📌 FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions