Jingle Jangle Review: A Magical Holiday Movie with Black Joy

Let’s be real — the moment I saw Phylicia Rashad’s name attached to Jingle Jangle, I already knew I was watching.

The Huxtables weren’t just TV’s favorite family — they were a blueprint. From parenting to partnersh

As a huge fan of Phylicia Rashad, my family and I could not wait for the release of Netflix’s Jingle Jangle. I’ve adored Rashad since I was five years old—thanks to her timeless portrayal of Claire Huxtable on The Cosby Show.

Seeing a Black mother who had a successful career, a thriving marriage, and exuded class and grace? It made an impression on me that still lingers decades later.

Even as television has shifted, and “ratchet” reality shows dominate today’s screen time, I still hold tight to the values Claire Huxtable modeled: confidence, dignity, and Black family love. It’s why I’m intentional about the kind of content I allow my children to watch—and why this film felt so important.

The legendary Phylicia Rashad lights up the screen as the family matriarch — reminding us all of the magic in storytelling.

 

 Everything is possible when you believe — Jingle Jangle’s vibrant world is a gift we didn’t know we needed.

Why “Jingle Jangle” Is the Holiday Movie We Didn’t Know We Needed

Jingle Jangle offered something fresh. I’m not going to spoil the plot, but just know it was refreshing to see a holiday film with original characters, music, and culture that felt like home. A full cast of singers, dancers, and actors who looked like me — and more importantly, looked like my kids.

We made a whole family night out of it. I’ll never forget my daughter smiling from ear to ear, pointing out the cast and saying, “She looks like me!” Even my dad, who is usually the family’s biggest movie critic, found himself vibing with the music and the message. That alone made it worth it.

Let’s Talk About the Music!

You already know I’m a musical girl at heart — I was in Drama Club in high school and musicals have always had a special place in my heart. Jingle Jangle didn’t miss. The original music was full of joy, soul, and imagination.

One of the standout voices for me was Lisa Davina Phillip. Her performance was stunning. Her voice — powerful and emotional — was a true breakout. I went down the Google rabbit hole after the movie because I just had to hear more from her.

Lisa Davina Phillip’s powerhouse vocals made her the surprise breakout voice of the film — I had to look her up after!

Her vocal energy lit up every scene she was in — this moment had me grinning like a kid at Christmas.

Anika Noni Rose was another vocal gem. Known for roles in The Princess and the Frog and Dreamgirls, Anika’s presence in Jingle Jangle was brief but beautiful. Her voice brought an emotional richness to her role as the toymaker’s estranged adult daughter, and it instantly reminded me of why she’s one of my favorite performers.

Anika Noni Rose brings elegance and heart to her role as the toymaker’s daughter, adding warmth to the film’s intergenerational story.

Final Thoughts

What I loved most is that Jingle Jangle created a world where Black joy, family, and imagination were front and center. It wasn’t a remix or reboot — it was something original. Something ours.

Written and directed by David E. Talbert, known for his work in film and stage plays, Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey is a joyful and imaginative ride that feels like a holiday tradition in the making. If you're looking for something magical to watch with the entire family, the “Jingle Jangle” holiday movie offers a refreshing take that celebrates Black excellence, imagination, and holiday cheer.