This filmed version of John Grisham’s Skipping Christmas adds more ammo to the belief that the book is always better than the movie. That novel’s gentle humor has been replaced on film by slapstick pratfalls, over-the-top characters and a frenetic, high-volume demeanor, that makes one long for a heavily spiked eggnog.

Putting book comparisons aside, however, "Christmas With the Kranks" is a likeable enough family holiday offering that Chevy Chase would have jumped at during his "Christmas Vacation" heyday. With the affable Tim Allen filling those shoes—his "Santa Clause" films endearing him to Yuletide audiences—"Christmas with the Kranks" offers a pleasant—albeit predictable—movie for a holiday family outing.

The story begins as empty-nesters Jamie Lee Curtis and Allen bid a teary-eyed goodbye to their only child, daughter Blair, as she leaves for a stint in Peru with the Peace Corps. The prospect of a lonely Christmas inspires the couple to "skip Christmas," save expenses and take a Caribbean cruise. This holiday abandonment does not sit well with the neighbors—especially Aykroyd’s Vic Fromeyer—who have come to expect the Kranks’ annual Christmas party and their participation in the block’s Frosty the Snowman decorations.

The snow hits the fan when Blair unexpectedly calls Christmas Eve to announce that she will be home for Christmas after all¾ -with a prospective fiancé in tow—and cannot wait to see the house decorated and party with the neighbors at the family’s annual bash.

Of course, those nasty gossiping neighbors rise to the occasion and help Nora and Luther create the holiday in less than 24 hours. Smiles, hugs and warm fuzzies all around.

Yes, the emotional extremes of the neighbors are hard to swallow, their characterizations painted with the broadest of brushes—really angry, then really nice. Dan Aykroyd’s sizeable talent is wasted in his one-note performance as the "unelected ward boss of the block." Only the always-fascinating M. Emmet Walsh adds a touch of believability as the reclusive oldster caring for his sick wife. When he calls Luther "old man," it speaks volumes.

Jamie Lee Curtis—more manic here than usual—is hilarious as she tracks down the last Hickory Ham in town. Kudos to her, as well, for baring her less-than-perfect middle-aged body in a bikini. And Allen sporting a fresh Botox injection? Worth a few chuckles for sure.

"Christmas with the Kranks" is lightweight, forgettable family entertainment-- harmless fun that doesn’t break any new ground. In fact, it safely treads on well-worn trails we’ve all been down before. It doesn’t have the depth to become a beloved holiday classic, replaying year after year. Expect this one to come and go ¾ silently into the night.