Embarking on a Festive Global Journey with Netflix

As the holiday season approaches, many of us find ourselves dreaming of Christmas celebrations in far-off lands. Imagine experiencing the festive spirit in Venice’s winding canals, the romantic streets of Paris, a snow-covered Norwegian town, the warmth of a South African town, or a secluded beach house in Germany. This year, I’m on a mission to take you on a global adventure with Netflix’s Christmas series collection!

A Curated Selection of Netflix’s Global Female-Led Series

In my previous article, I expressed my weariness with the traditional Hallmark movie formula. While these movies, watched by millions (80 million in 2021 alone), have their charm in transporting us to a fairytale world where traditional values triumph, I’ve found myself yearning for something more relatable. As a woman over 30, laden with life experience, the traditional tales of waiting for a Prince Charming or defining oneself through relationships have ceased to strike a chord within me.

Recognizing the massive demand for holiday content, streaming giants and traditional broadcasters are stocking up on Christmas-themed shows. Amidst this festive abundance, I’ve curated a list of Netflix shows that are not only female-led but also hail from non-English speaking countries. Let’s mention noteworthy shows like the Norwegian series Snowstorm for Christmas (2022) and the German Over Christmas (2020). But, my focus is on series with female protagonists. These shows provide a personal and relatable perspective, especially for viewers like me—women over 30 who’ve had enough of fake snow and Prince Charming tales.

Seeking New Holiday Flavours: A Fresh Take on Christmas Series

Netflix, understanding the profitability and popularity of holiday content, has been a frontrunner in diversifying its offerings. In a previous article, I highlighted Netflix’s films that break the mould of gender and racial diversity. This time, however, I’m focusing on what Netflix excels at series and limited series. I’ve spent the last week immersing myself in all the non-English series on Netflix to bring you the best picks for your holiday viewing.

Despite my craving for the magic of Christmas, I sought something different this year. Imagine having too many gingerbread cookies the previous year and now seeking a new flavour. That led me to explore Netflix’s offerings from non-English speaking countries, resulting in an exhilarating discovery. Thus, I’ve prepared a list of Christmas series and mini-series for your binge-watching pleasure. While none of them are perfect, and I’ll discuss their flaws later, they offer a fresh perspective on holiday celebrations.

Remember, these series are still Christmas movies, predominantly romantic comedies. It’s unnecessary to critique them for being formulaic – that’s part of their charm. They fulfil a need for content that allows us to switch off our brains and escape from the world’s complexities like capitalism, inflation, unemployment, misogyny, homophobia, and racism. There’s a comfort in predictability and simplicity.

Journeying with Female Protagonists in Netflix’s Christmas Films

So, are you ready to join me on a journey around the world with the female protagonists of Netflix’s Christmas films? Let’s get started on this enchanting global voyage!

A Global Journey Through Festive Storytelling: From Norway to South Africa

As we delve into the realm of seasonal television, a fascinating trend emerges: a trio of series sharing a core narrative, yet flourishing in distinct cultural landscapes. This journey begins in the snowy realms of Norway with the charming Home for Christmas (2019-), then meanders through the vibrant streets of Italy in I Hate Christmas, and finally lands in the colourful heart of South Africa with Yoh! Christmas.

1. Home for Christmas (Per-Olav Sørensen, Norway, 2019-): Rediscovering Romance in the Age of Online Dating

In a delightful twist on traditional holiday narratives, Netflix’s Home for Christmas brings to the forefront a story both familiar and refreshingly unique. The series orbits around Johanne, played by the talented Ida Elise Broch, a 30-year-old nurse grappling with societal pressures and personal aspirations. This sophisticated review delves into the intricate layers of the series, offering a nuanced perspective on its themes and execution.

The Journey of Johanne: A Relatable Protagonist

Johanne’s tale is one of self-discovery and societal defiance. As a single woman in her thirties, she faces constant reminders of her ‘ticking biological clock’, a metaphorical noose tightened by family and friends alike. The series opens with Johanne being demoted to the children’s section at a family dinner, symbolising her perceived immaturity due to her single status. This moment, laced with humour and pathos, sets the tone for her journey.

A Contemporary Take on Romance and Singlehood

Home for Christmas is not just another romantic series; it’s a commentary on the modern dating scene and the societal pressures faced by single individuals. Johanne’s venture into online dating, encouraged by her whimsical flatmate, is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with humour and poignant moments. The series offers a candid look at the complexities of relationships in the digital age, where connections can be as fleeting as they are deep.

The Beauty of Being Single?

Home for Christmas weaves a narrative that transcends the conventional themes of love and companionship, instead celebrating the richness of singlehood. Far from depicting it as a lamentable state, the series heralds singlehood as a season ripe for personal growth and self-discovery. It adeptly chronicles Johanne’s odyssey, not merely as a search for love, but as a profound journey towards self-acceptance and finding solace in one’s own company.

Yet, the show isn’t without its complexities. It subtly critiques the societal pressure to find a partner, suggesting that Johanne’s apparent contentment in solitude might be a facade. Home for Christmas, thus, becomes a poignant reflection on the societal expectations surrounding romance and the authentic pursuit of happiness.

Supporting Characters: More than Just Sidekicks

The series shines in its portrayal of supporting characters, each adding depth and humour to Johanne’s world. From the quirky best friend Jørgunn, played by Gabrielle Leithaug, to the wise patients Johanne cares for, each character contributes to the series’ exploration of love, life, and happiness.

A Story of Love, in All Its Forms

Home for Christmas transcends the typical love story. It’s not just about romantic love but also love in its many forms – friendship, family, and self-love. The series paints a picture of a woman’s journey through the ups and downs of life, seeking happiness in a world obsessed with romantic partnerships.

Home for Christmas: The Holiday Series That Redefines Joy and Self-Acceptance

Spanning two captivating seasons, each featuring six mesmerising episodes, Home for Christmas masterfully intertwines a narrative that is as enthralling as it is intellectually stimulating. This series strikes a chord with anyone who’s ever grappled with the daunting pressure to adhere to societal expectations. Brimming with a delightful blend of humour, warmth, and a sprinkle of festive enchantment, Home for Christmas should definitely earn its place on your holiday viewing roster!

2. I Hate Christmas (Davide Mardegan & Clemente De MuroItaly, 2022-): A Unique Italian Spin on Holiday Romance

Netflix’s Italian original series I Hate Christmas brings a fresh perspective to holiday-themed storytelling. Set in the mesmerising city of Venice, it offers a welcome change from the usual Christmas fare.

Gianna’s Humorous Quest for Love

Immersed in a narrative strikingly reminiscent of Home for Christmas, the series presents a familiar journey with a few twists. For those who have already savoured the Norwegian original, brace for echoes of familiarity in the first season. While the Italian adaptation, set against a backdrop of cultural nuances and scenic Italian landscapes, mirrors its predecessor, it adds little in terms of novelty. Faced with the decision between the two, the Norwegian version might hold more allure.

Central to I Hate Christmas is Gianna, played by the talented Pilar Fogliati, embodying a character akin to Johanne. As a thirty-something nurse grappling with familial pressures about her single life, Gianna fabricates a boyfriend. This sets her off on a whimsical quest through the enchanting streets of Venice, weaving a tale of humour and heart in her search for love.”

Venice: Beyond a Postcard View

The series provides a genuine look into Italian Christmas traditions, set against the stunning Venetian canals. Venice is depicted as a vibrant, living city, offering a relatable, realistic backdrop to the story.

Unique Narrative Style & Character Depth

I Hate Christmas elevates the art of storytelling with its ingenious narrative techniques, including the delightful breaking of the fourth wall – a nod to the iconic style of Fleabag. The show artfully balances a tapestry of characters ranging from the archetypal to the profound, featuring the likes of a composed lawyer and a bar owner in her theories who has not yet lost her virginity. These diverse personalities infuse the story with humour and a unique allure.

In its sophomore season, the series delves into an even richer tapestry of character arcs and plot intricacies, offering audiences a more immersive and layered viewing experience. This season distinctively sets itself apart from Home for Christmas’s second season, presenting compelling reasons to explore its inaugural season first. The evolution from the first to the second season of I Hate Christmas is a journey in itself, promising a more engaging and rewarding experience for those who follow the storyline from its genesis.

Why I Hate Christmas Is a Must-Watch

This series is ideal for those seeking a different kind of holiday series, with its blend of humour, heartfelt moments, and the enchanting Venetian setting.

3. Yoh! Christmas (Chris Beasley, South Africa, 2023-): A Refreshing African Take on Christmas Romance

Imagine the magic of Christmas in the heart of South Africa. Yoh! Christmas (2023, directed by Chris Beasley, Lauren Chengan, Zolani Phakade, Sanele Zulu, Johnny Barbuzano), the latest and most captivating adaptation of ‘Home For Christmas,’ not only surpasses its Norwegian predecessor but also brings a vibrant new flavour to the holiday season. This remarkable series is enriched by its predominantly Black cast and the unique South African backdrop, offering an engaging and refreshing perspective on the complexities of single life and Christmas romance.

Our protagonist, Thando Mokoena, portrayed by the mesmerising Katlego Lebogang, is a 30-year-old physiotherapist. Thando concocts a fictional relationship to navigate the societal pressures she faces, offering us a window into the intricacies of modern relationships and the shadows of past experiences.

What sets this series apart is its emphasis on Thando’s friendship with Charles, played by the charismatic Siya Raymond Sepotokele. This aspect of the story delivers a genuine and heartfelt depiction of platonic relationships, boldly challenging the conventional romantic narratives. Yoh! Christmas is a journey into the lives of characters who redefine the essence of love, friendship, and holiday spirit in the most original and relatable way.

Cultural Depth and Global Appeal

Yoh! Christmas delves into South African customs, adding cultural richness to the storyline. It’s a journey through love, friendship, and self-acceptance, resonating with a global audience. This series combines humour, drama, and cultural richness, making it an essential watch. It stands out for its celebration of South African culture and the diverse Christmas experience it offers.

Celebrating Diversity

What makes Yoh! Christmas stand out as a personal favourite in its unique embrace of South African culture, providing a refreshing contrast to its predecessors. This variation is not just about changing scenery; it’s a celebration of diversity, interwoven with the universal spirit of Christmas. The series has captured the essence of a global Christmas, one that keeps the traditional warmth but adds a vibrant twist of diversity, making it a must-watch for those seeking a novel holiday experience.

4. Parisian Romance Meets Feminist Ideals in Christmas Flow (Nadège Loiseau, France, 2021)

Christmas Flow brings a unique blend of classic Christmas charm and a thoughtful exploration of feminist activism in contemporary France. This three-episode series, each lasting around 50 minutes, dives into the familiar romantic comedy territory with a twist, reflecting the younger generation’s growing feminist awareness through its Parisian setting and dynamic characters.

Christmas Flow stars Shirine Boutella as Lila, a young feminist journalist, and French rapper Tayc as Marcus, a famous rapper with controversially sexist lyrics. Their initial encounter and subsequent relationship journey are central to the series, providing a platform for exploring broader themes of feminism, romance, and societal norms. While the series adheres to the conventional plot points of both Christmas movies and romantic comedies, it doesn’t shy away from portraying Paris beyond its tourist-friendly facade. The show offers a refreshing glimpse into the city’s more urban, grittier side, presenting a visual treat for international audiences.

Feminism in Focus: The Simones’ Impact in Christmas Flow

The standout feature of Christmas Flow is its portrayal of The Simones, a group of feminist activists inspired by the legendary French feminist Simone de Beauvoir. Lila, along with her friends Alice (Marion Séclin) and Jeanne (Aloïse Sauvage), embodies this new wave of feminism, echoing real-life movements like #NousToutes.

The series cleverly integrates moments of activism, such as changing street name signs to honour famous women, mirroring similar actions by #NousToutes in 2019. However, the show also delves into the complexities and challenges of embracing feminism, especially in diverse socio-economic contexts. It addresses the struggles of individuals like Marcus, a black man who grew up in poverty, highlighting the need for a broader, more inclusive understanding of feminist issues.

The Irony of Feminism in Romantic Comedy: A Subtle Critique in Christmas Flow

Christmas Flow is a commentary on the evolution of feminist thought, urging a reexamination of figures like Simone de Beauvoir through the lenses of modern feminist scholars like Luce Irigaray and bell hooks. The series also touches upon the irony of feminist activists caught within the framework of a romantic comedy, subtly critiquing certain narrow perceptions of feminism.

Beyond the Script: Christmas Flow’s‘ Deeper Message on Feminism and Society

In conclusion, Christmas Flow is a thought-provoking series that combines the warmth of a holiday movie with the depth of feminist discourse. While it sticks to some traditional genre elements, its exploration of feminist activism and the diverse experiences of its characters make it a standout addition to Netflix’s holiday offerings.

5. Family Drama and Mysteries in the Winter Chill: Holiday Secrets (Samira Radsi, Germany, 2019)

Holiday Secrets presents a complex tapestry of familial drama, set against the backdrop of a winter-washed beachfront home. This intriguing three-episode series weaves a narrative rich with plot twists and emotional depth, making for a viewing experience that challenges and engages.

The series begins with a poignant voiceover that sets the tone: “No matter how far away we try to get away from our families, no matter where we live, no matter how differently we do things, we all need to go back home for Christmas.” This introduction encapsulates the universal theme of returning home, a concept that resonates deeply during the holiday season.

A Twist from the Start: Eva’s Mysterious Fate in Holiday Secrets

However, the series takes a dramatic turn as the family members gather. The matriarch, Eva, played by the compelling Corinna Harfouch, is initially thought to be dead, only to be found alive but suffering from dementia. This startling beginning serves as a catalyst, bringing to the surface long-buried family secrets and revealing the intricate dynamics between the characters.

Holiday Secrets spans three generations and three distinct time periods, intricately exploring the lives of its central female characters. The narrative deftly shifts between the present day, Christmas of 1989, and Christmas in 2004, offering a layered perspective on the family’s history and the evolving relationships between its members. The characters of Vivi (Svenja Jung), Lara (Leonie Benesch), their estranged mother Sonja (Christiane Paul), and the ailing grandmother Eva form the emotional core of the story.

Time-Hopping Storytelling: Holiday Secrets Across Generations”

While the series excels in its atmospheric setting—a remote beach house that adds a sense of isolation and introspection to the narrative—it admittedly struggles to fully develop its characters within the limited span of three episodes. This pacing issue might leave some viewers feeling a lack of connection to the characters, which can be a critical aspect of a character-driven drama.

Character Depth vs. Episode Limit: The Pacing Challenge of Holiday Secrets

Despite this, Holiday Secrets stands out for its exploration of complex family dynamics and the haunting beauty of its location. The show delves into themes of loss, reconciliation, and the enduring impact of family history, making it a poignant, if not entirely fulfilling, watch.

Wrapping Up Holiday Secrets

In conclusion, Holiday Secrets on Netflix is an ambitious series that attempts to tackle a web of emotional and historical complexities. Its narrative structure, while challenging, adds depth and intrigue, inviting viewers into a world where family secrets and personal journeys intersect. While it may not resonate with everyone, for those who appreciate a drama that intertwines time periods and character arcs, “Holiday Secrets” offers a unique and introspective holiday viewing experience.

6. A Nostalgic Spanish Christmas Tale: Three Days of Christmas (Pau Freixas, Spain, 2019)

Three Days of Christmas crafted by the renowned Pau Freixas of Spain’s vibrant drama scene, emerges as a standout holiday series, perfectly blending nostalgia, humour, and emotional depth. This beautifully crafted miniseries is a must-watch, striking a delicate balance between personal narratives and political history, all while steering clear of clichéd patriotic tropes.

A Timeless Journey: Traversing Eras in Three Days of Christmas

Spanning three episodes, each focusing on a different Christmas in the life of a Spanish family, the series artfully traverses different eras. The journey begins in the post-World War II period, where the family finds themselves embroiled in a gripping situation – hiding a fugitive’s daughter from a relentless police officer. The story progresses to depict the grown children’s struggles in adulthood, culminating in a poignant final holiday gathering that ties their past to their present.

Set against the backdrop of Francisco Franco’s Spain, Three Days of Christmas is imbued with an air of suspense and danger. The narrative unfolds with an unexpected turn when a fugitive entrusts his daughter’s safety to the family, setting the course for the daughters’ future lives. This miniseries is far more than a typical holiday drama; it’s a captivating exploration of a family’s resilience through decades of turmoil.

Addressing Complex Themes with Grace: The Mature Content of Three Days of Christmas

With each episode running approximately an hour, Three Days of Christmas is the perfect series for a cosy Christmas weekend binge. It skilfully tackles complex themes such as adultery and LGBTQ acceptance, all while maintaining its dramatic heft. The series, while carrying a mature rating, is relatively tame compared to many PG-13 films, making it suitable for a wide audience. However, viewers might want to keep tissues handy for this emotional rollercoaster.

A production of Filmax and a Netflix original, this three-part miniseries showcases some of the finest Spanish acting talent. The story is brought to life by twelve exceptional actresses, who portray the four sisters at different stages of their lives. Among them are Victoria Abril, Elena Anaya, Nerea Barros, and Verónica Echegui, lending their remarkable talents to create a rich and multi-dimensional portrayal of each character.

Beyond the Festivities: Three Days of Christmas as an Unforgettable Family Journey

In conclusion, Three Days of Christmas is a refreshing and heartfelt addition to Netflix’s holiday lineup. It offers a unique perspective on the festive season, intertwining historical context with the timeless themes of family, love, and forgiveness. Available worldwide on Netflix from December 6, this series is a truly profound journey through the lives of a family that resonates with universal truths about the human experience.

Redefining Holiday Traditions: A Journey with Netflix’s Female-Led Christmas Series

As our festive journey comes to a close, it’s evident that Netflix’s array of holiday series has redefined the essence of seasonal storytelling. From the snow-covered landscapes of Norway to the enchanting canals of Venice, and the vibrant streets of South Africa, we’ve traversed a world of diverse Christmas tales, each uniquely anchored by compelling female protagonists. These series range from the heartwarming Home for Christmas to nostalgic Three Days of Christmas, and offer more than just holiday cheer; they present a tapestry of narratives that resonate with modern viewers seeking relatable, diverse, and inclusive content.

In I Hate Christmas, we experience the humour and charm of Venetian romance, while Christmas Flow in Paris offers a blend of romance and feminist ideals. Holiday Secrets and Three Days of Christmas added depth and historical perspective to our festive watchlist. Each series, in its own right, stands as a testament to the evolution of holiday storytelling, breaking free from traditional narratives and embracing a global, multifaceted approach.

This exploration through Netflix’s Christmas series collection has been more than just a seasonal indulgence; it’s been a revelation of how holiday stories can be both entertaining and meaningful, reflecting the diverse experiences and perspectives of viewers around the world. As we bid farewell to this global festive journey, we’re left with a renewed appreciation for the magic of Christmas storytelling and the joy it brings in its many forms. These series are not just for the holiday season; they’re a celebration of life, love, and the endless possibilities that storytelling offers, making them worthy of year-round appreciation.