Netflix’s “Family Switch” attempts to be the ideal family movie for the holidays but falls into the realm of complete innocuousness. This body-swap comedy, directed by McG, centers around the Walkers, an upper-middle-class family facing generational clashes amid their seemingly perfect lives.
While the film’s high-stakes premise of body swapping promises excitement, its anodyne sensibility becomes evident early on. The characters, especially the leads played by Jennifer Garner and Ed Helms, lack distinctive personalities, hindering the enjoyment of the body-swap dynamic.
Despite committed physical performances and a few chuckles, “Family Switch” relies on predictable beats, lacking genuine humor or depth. Notable comic talents in supporting roles struggle with one-dimensional parts, and the film’s emotional side lacks impact.
The film’s insistence on niceness paradoxically makes it less heartwarming than expected. Characters feel flat, and conflicts are resolved without much depth. While “Family Switch” serves as safe background filler, it fails to leave a lasting impression, offering a forgettable, inoffensive viewing experience for the holiday season.