Unwrapping the Joy of Unconventional Christmas Films: Beyond the Cliché

Ah, the annual ritual of Christmas movie critics donning their metaphorical Grinch hats and solemnly declaring every festive romantic comedy as “unoriginal,” “cheap,” or “bland.” Well, color me surprised! It’s as if they’ve just stumbled upon the North Pole and are shocked to find it’s cold and snowy. But let’s be honest here, folks – those very conventions, the cosy predictability, the faux snowstorms, and the underdeveloped characters are precisely why we cosy up with these films. They’re our warm, fuzzy security blankets in a world where advanced capitalism is merrily team-rolling over us with inflation, unemployment, and climate change.

I explored this concept in depth in my article, ‘The Princess Switch’ Analysis: The Netflix Christmas Metaverse, or How Vanessa Hudgens Became a Cyborg. If you’re looking for a more in-depth analysis of how modern media reflects our current socio-economic climate, I highly recommend giving it a read.

The Quintessential Christmas Movie Plot: Comfort in Predictability”

Now, let’s delve into the quintessential Christmas movie plot, a source of comfort in its predictability. Picture this: a high-powered career woman, fresh from the bustling city, struts back to her humble hometown, sporting entirely inappropriate footwear and a heaping serving of small-town disdain. But as fate has it, a series of unexpected events unfold, leading her to discover the charm of simplicity and rekindle her romance with the town’s resident handyman, her high school sweetheart. It’s a plotline as familiar as Grandma’s secret fruitcake recipe.

Now, don’t get me wrong, Christmas films might not be in the same cinematic stratosphere as Kubrick or Tarkovsky, but that doesn’t mean we should dismiss them outright. They have a unique job – to bring us pure, unadulterated joy! I mean, with the past few years being the rollercoaster that they were (thanks, COVID), I’ve even tried to self-prescribe a healthy dose of Christmas films, despite my previous critiques. I went all in, subscribing to the Hallmark channel and devouring Christmas movies like candy canes. But this year, something changed. After one too many viewings, I felt like I might just deck the halls with my own regurgitated gingerbread cookies. Perhaps my depression lifted, or maybe I’d simply overdosed on the straight, white Christmas magic. Who knows?

Reimagining Christmas Movie Magic – Breaking Free from Clichés

So, let’s not shame ourselves for seeking solace in these films, but instead, let’s ponder why we find comfort in these cookie-cutter worlds. And here’s a twist – this year, let’s strive for something different. That’s why I scoured Netflix for Christmas films that dare to defy the status quo if only just a smidge. We’re talking about diversity that ventures into sexuality, gender, and race.

Now, before you say “Bah, humbug!” – yes, most of these films still revolve around middle or upper-middle-class protagonists. And sure, it feels like they’re ticking boxes to cater to wider audiences, be it the queer community, Black viewers, or Asian Americans. They’re far from perfect, but at least they’re trying to shake things up a bit.

A New Wave of Christmas Narratives on Netflix: The List Begins

But fear not, my fellow festive film lovers, if you’re yearning for that classic Christmas comfort, these movies will still provide that cinematic snugness. They’re like your favourite holiday sweater, just with a slightly different pattern. Of course, there are more daring Christmas films out there, but I’ve deliberately chosen ones that are readily available on Netflix, so you won’t have to embark on an Arctic expedition to find them.

So, without further ado, let’s unwrap this holiday gift of unconventional Christmas movies!

4. Holiday Rush (US, 2019): A Fresh Perspective on African-American Christmas Traditions

Kicking off our holiday film selection is Leslie Small’s Holiday Rush. Directed by Leslie Small, this film expands the traditional Christmas narrative to include an African-American family’s experience. This heartwarming story centres around Rush Williams (Romany Malco), a popular New York radio DJ, and his journey of rediscovering the true spirit of Christmas with his family.

After losing his wife (La La Anthony), Rush has been overindulging his four children, a situation that becomes complicated when he suddenly loses his job amidst their extravagant Christmas expectations. With the help of his producer Roxy Richardson (Sonequa Martin-Green) and Aunt Jo (Darlene Love), Rush embarks on a mission to buy another radio station, necessitating a swift lifestyle change for his family. The film gracefully illustrates how a father reconnects with his children and finds new love, emphasizing the power of simplicity and family bonds.

Celebrating Diversity: Christmas in the Black Community”

While the film isn’t without its flaws, particularly in the initial portrayal of the children as spoiled and the underdeveloped arc of their transformation, its focus on an African-American family is both important and refreshing. Leslie Small articulates the significance of Christmas in the black community, emphasizing the unique cultural aspects that define the holiday. From the meticulous selection of music to the authentic representation of African-American traditions, Holiday Rush offers viewers a glimpse into a Christmas experience deeply rooted in community and faith.

Director Leslie Small emphasizes the cultural richness of Christmas in the Black community, from the unique sounds and scents to the specific decorations and music choices. This attention to detail is aimed at taking audiences on a cultural journey, immersing them in the traditions and nuances of an African-American Christmas.

Yet, Holiday Rush contributes to diversifying the representation of the Black community in cinema. It underlines its distinct cultural aspects through the music Rush plays and the community he targets. Ultimately, the film conveys a powerful, albeit cliché, message that true joy comes not from possessions, but from the people we share our lives with, a fitting reminder for the holiday season.

3. Single All the Way (Canada, 2021): Netflix’s Leap into Queer Christmas Romance

Securing the third spot in our curated Christmas film guide is Single All the Way, a charming and soothing romantic comedy by Tony Award recipient Michael Mayer. Notably, it’s Netflix’s first openly queer Christmas movie, marking a significant, albeit small, step in diverse representation. However, the film’s release in 2021 highlights the entertainment industry’s slow progress in embracing LGBTQ+ narratives, a path even Hallmark began exploring with The Christmas House in 2020.

The Romantic Rollercoaster of ‘Single All the Way’: Plot Twists and Family Drama

In Single All the Way, we are introduced to Peter, played by Michael Urie. His excitement is palpable as he envisions introducing Tim to his curious family. That is until a shocking revelation drops like a snowball in the face – Tim’s got a secret, and it’s a big one. He’s married! And if that weren’t enough of a twist, it’s Peter’s best friend and roommate, Nick, who ends up moonlighting as a handyman for Tim’s wife. Talk about tangled holiday lights!

Peter’s dilemma reaches epic proportions. He can’t bear the thought of facing his prying family alone, especially not after he’d built up the anticipation of a perfect Christmas with Tim. Desperation sets in, and Peter embarks on a mission that’s as audacious as it is entertaining. He ropes his trusty confidant, Nick, into a charade of epic proportions. Philemon Chambers brings Nick’s character to life with a flair that’s bound to keep you in stitches.

As the plot unfolds, Single All the Way serves up a hearty helping of family dynamics and romantic entanglements. Kathy Najimy, who plays Peter’s mother, adds a delightful twist to the mix. She’s determined to set her son up with the charming local trainer, played by Luke Macfarlane.

Redefining Christmas: A Family’s Unconditional Love

Distinctly, the film avoids typical coming-out narratives, focusing instead on a family’s loving and supportive dynamic that doesn’t centre on Peter’s sexuality. In a twist, the plot shifts from exploring sexual identity to humorously spotlighting Peter’s single status.

Despite its trailblazing premise, Single All the Way somewhat stumbles in delivering compelling romantic chemistry between Peter and Nick. The storyline mirrors many Hallmark tropes, but with a twist—substituting the traditional wealthy, career-driven protagonist with a gay male lead. Notably, the film portrays affluence, but it does attempt to diversify through Nick’s character, a black handyman who also runs his own business. However, I am not entirely convinced he is an apt representative of the working class.

Jennifer Coolidge’s performance as Aunt Sandy stands out, though her character could have been more deeply explored. While Single All the Way may not fully deliver on engagement and charm, it represents a notable, if incremental, advancement in inclusive storytelling for the holiday season.

2. Love Hard (US, 2021): Navigating Online Dating and Stereotypes in a Holiday Rom-Com

Capturing the runner-up spot in our Christmas film roundup is Love Hard, an engaging rom-com that delivers laughs despite its flaws. Directed by Hernán Jiménez, this film tells the story of Natalie (Nina Dobrev), an L.A. journalist known for chronicling her dating disasters online. Her life veers into unexpected territory when she travels across the country to surprise her perfect match, Tag (Darren Barnet), only to find out she’s been catfished by Josh (Jimmy O. Yang), Tag’s childhood friend.

The film adeptly explores the complexities of online dating, a familiar struggle for many, through Natalie’s quest for love. Her encounter with Josh’s deceptive profile leads to an unforeseen holiday twist, revealing the true identity of the man behind the façade. This pivot offers a refreshing take on traditional romantic comedy narratives, blending humour with the contemporary challenges of digital romance.

Stereotypes and Romance: Analyzing Love Hard‘s’ Impact

While Love Hard aims for diversity and challenges Hollywood’s beauty standards, it inadvertently reinforces certain stereotypes about East Asian men. The film’s portrayal of Josh as the stereotypical ‘unattractive nerd’ in contrast to the idealized Western beauty standards, echoes a broader cultural conversation about representation and racial clichés in media.

Despite these nuances, Love Hard brings a fresh angle to the rom-com genre, making it an entertaining and thought-provoking choice for your Christmas movie selection. It blends humour, heart, and a touch of modern dating dilemmas, ensuring a spot on your festive watchlist.

1. Let It Snow (US, 2019): A Teen Christmas Tale of Diversity and Heart

Prepare to be enchanted by the top pick of our Christmas movie extravaganza: Let It Snow, directed by the talented Luke Snellin. This cinematic gem breaks the mould of typical holiday movies by presenting us with a vibrant mosaic of high school students from diverse racial and socioeconomic backgrounds. It offers a heartfelt escape from the often-seen tales of opulence and extravagance.

Despite my general reluctance toward teen comedies, Let It Snow managed to capture my heart with its unique storyline. It deviates from the usual Christmas movie formula, providing a fresh and engaging narrative. Inspired by the young adult novel co-authored by John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle, the film is centred around students in a small Midwestern town whose lives intersect amidst a disruptive snowstorm.

Diverse Tales of Love and Friendship in Let It Snow

Let It Snow excels in bringing a genuine cinematic experience, a testament to Netflix’s ability to produce compelling content. The film balances popular elements like young adult romance and holiday cheer without feeling overly manufactured. The story unfolds on Christmas Eve, focusing on high school seniors, each grappling with personal challenges or vulnerabilities. Characters like introverted Julie (Isabela Moner) and the secretly lonely pop star Stewart (Shameik Moore), or the timid Tobin (Mitchell Hope) pining for his friend The Duke (Kiernan Shipka), add depth and relatability to the narrative.

Embracing Diversity and Authenticity in Storytelling

Although the film treads familiar ground with predictable elements and some underdeveloped characters, its portrayal of diverse races, sexualities, and social classes is commendable. The metaphor of snow in the film stands out – each snowflake embodies diversity and uniqueness.

Let It Snow effectively uses its source material, featuring a talented young ensemble cast. In an era where conveying themes like acceptance, self-love, and respect in a non-preachy manner is challenging, this film succeeds. It demonstrates that cinema can resonate with audiences by portraying authentic human experiences, even in the most unusual circumstances, like the quirky weather backdrop of this movie.

Conclusion: Evolving Christmas Narratives in Film: A Celebration of Diversity and Inclusivity

As the snowflakes gently blanket the ground, symbolizing the unique beauty of each story we’ve explored, it’s clear that the essence of Christmas in cinema is evolving. From the rhythmic heartbeats of Holiday Rush, echoing the rich tapestry of African-American culture, to the groundbreaking stride in LGBTQ+ representation in Single All the Way, these films invite us to a holiday feast where diversity is the main course. “Love Hard” serves a slice of modern dating dilemmas with a side of stereotype-challenging humour, while “Let It Snow” wraps us in a cosy blanket of teen angst and diversity, demonstrating Netflix’s knack for heartwarming, inclusive storytelling. Each film, like a distinct ornament on a vast Christmas tree, adds its unique sparkle to the holiday narrative.

Embracing the Beauty in Imperfection: The Authenticity of Holiday Films

But let’s be real: these films are not without their imperfections. They stumble, they falter, and at times, they miss the mark. However, it’s precisely in these flaws that their beauty lies. They mirror our own imperfect lives, filled with rushed holiday preparations, awkward family gatherings, and the occasional burnt Christmas cookie. What stands out in each story is not the perfection of the plot or the flawlessness of the characters, but the authenticity of the emotions they evoke.

. As we bid farewell to these cinematic journeys, let’s remember that the true spirit of Christmas lies not in the perfection of our celebrations but in the joy of embracing our imperfections. Just like each film in our roundup, our holiday experiences are beautifully imperfect, and that’s what makes them worth celebrating. So, here’s to a holiday season filled with laughter, love, and a little bit of movie magic. May your days be merry, bright, and filled with the joy of diverse stories that reflect the true colours of our world. Merry Christmas and happy movie-watching!