Noelle

Noelle is currently streaming in Australia on Disney Plus, and in the US on Disney Plus, and it delivers exactly the kind of comedy that earns a loyal following. A tight runtime that never overstays its welcome. A 7/10 rating says what the writing already makes obvious: this one works. Anna Kendrick's performance alone is worth the time investment. Put it on tonight on Disney Plus and see for yourself.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, Noelle is worth clearing space for. The jokes in Noelle land because the characters underneath them are worth caring about. Kris Kringle's daughter, Noelle, sets off on a mission to find and bring back her brother, after he gets cold feet when it's his turn to take over as Santa. Anna Kendrick and Shirley MacLaine lead a cast that brings real weight to the material. It was released in 2019. The real test of any comedy is whether it is still funny once you know all the jokes, and Noelle holds up on rewatch in a way that separates it from one-off curiosities. It knows exactly what it is, and does not try to be anything else.

Comedy fans looking for a reliably funny watch will find it in Noelle. It stands on its own even without an obvious comparison point. Short enough to finish in one sitting, substantial enough to feel satisfying. Anna Kendrick anchors an ensemble with real chemistry. Genuinely funny, consistently, across the whole run.