★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Happiest Season gives a fresh, LGBTQ+ take on the tired genre of romantic Christmas films. Featuring a star-studded cast (including leading lady Kristen Stewart), this film is certainly a step up from the typical low-budget Hallmarks featured on Netflix’s front page come December.

While Happiest Season does bring a new perspective to this genre, the film ultimately suffers from sticking too closely to the expected beats of rom-coms. We sacrifice realism and character moments in exchange for a perfect happy ending despite the fact that a breakup is the clear and logical path for almost the entire film. Kristen Stewart’s character, Abby, also seems to be the protagonist in a story where she has little influence or impact which makes us wonder whether or not this really should have been told from her perspective.

Still, this film is delightful and absolutely worth the watch. It might have its problems but the story is ultimately heart-warming and full of holiday cheer.

Check out our (slightly more) in depth podcast review + rating below! Podcast music by Brian K.S. Cole.

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Our wine choice was a Vecchia Cantina chianti. It was delicious!