Knowing my fondness for holiday shows, Netflix suggested I watch “A Nonsense Christmas with Sabrina Carpenter.” It was released December 6th. The thumbnail depicted an attractive blonde in a Santa suit. I thought it was going to be a typical cutesy movie.
Billed as a musical comedy holiday special, “Nonsense” features multifaceted star Sabrina Carpenter who hosts the 50-minute show, singing festive songs and enacting comedy sketches. Several celebrities make guest appearances including country sensation Shania Twain who performs a duet with Carpenter on the song “Santa Baby.” Sean Astin, who we last saw in ’24’ makes an appearance as a kitschy Santa Claus.
Color me Smitten
I hadn’t heard of Sabrina Carpenter before. The 25-year-old came to prominence on the Disney show “Girl Meets World.” Since then, she has acted in a dozen movies and TV shows. As a musician, Carpenter released her first album in 2015. A true artist, Carpenter is the main songwriter for her music. She plays piano, guitar, bass, ukulele, and drums. If that isn’t enough, she recently released her own fragrance.
“Nonsense” is the epithet of a megastar. The choregraphed special isn’t a Sabrina Carpenter concert, but a mix of elements showcasing her many talents. She has an enchanting charisma that draws you in with charm, beauty, and humor. There are multiple laugh out loud moments. The gag reel at the end will show how much fun was had in making the production.
Several songs are remixes of her original tracks, with lyrics adjusted for comedy. I was reminded of clips of Dean Martin or Frank Sinatra from back in the day. It’s a rare ability to lull you in with a wink and a smile. The Rat Pack embodied coolness and Carpenter followed suit. I’ll be checking out her music for sure. And her show (I grew up loving “Boy Meets World”).
Netflix started as a mail order DVD service. Then they invented streaming. And creating their own Oscar-worthy films and series. Last month they weighed in on live sports, with a boxing match between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson. With the Carpenter show, the media giant again demonstrates their ability to diversify. Hopefully they will release more specials like this. Carpenter could make this a yearly tradition.
“A Nonsense Christmas with Sabrina Carpenter” is an hour of fun. It’s a mix of holiday music and family-friendly fun that will put you in a festive mood.
