It's a comedy with a dash of tragedy -- the kind of thing that usually makes me puke. But I fell for this one. The sublime Sarah Jessica Parker dares to be unlikable as the uptight careerist fiancee whom Everett Stone (Dermot Mulroney) brings home to meet his family for Christmas. Mom (Diane Keaton) and dad (Craig T. Nelson) are appalled. Sister Amy (Rachel McAdams, irresistible) thinks she's a bitch. Slacker brother Ben (Luke Wilson, giving the performance of his career) takes her to bed.…

As one of the more likable holiday films to come around in a long time, the comedy The Family Stone will also surprise you with its depth and emotional appeal.

Story

At first glance, The Family Stone appears to be yet another silly romp about family dynamics. But the Stones, a vivacious, loving, liberal-minded New England family, are more than just cardboard cut-outs; they're as real as any dysfunctional family can be. The film begins with the Stones getting ready for their annual holiday…