Holidate

Holidate, a 2020 release, is a romantic comedy that offers a fresh spin on typical rom-com narratives with its holiday-themed quirks and charms. With a star-studded cast—including Emma Roberts, Luke Bracey, and Kristin Chenoweth—Holidate skillfully plays out the tension and chemistry between its main characters across several different holiday scenarios.

Emma Roberts stars as Sloane, a woman in her late twenties who's constantly annoyed by her mother's consistent nagging about her love life. Single and unwilling to attach herself to a serious relationship, Sloane is characterized as independent, cheeky, and a little cynical, giving Roberts the chance to deliver her trademark sass.

Opposite her, playing the charming character of Jackson, is Luke Bracey. Jackson is an Australian golfer tired of the trial of dating and the expectations that come with holiday romantic gestures. Jackson's and Sloane's fates intertwine in a rather comedic scenario at a department store, where circumstances propel them into an unusual agreement to be each other's "holidates".

A "holidate"—a blend of the words "holiday" and "date"—is a term that becomes the heart and soul of the narrative. The idea is simple yet effective: Sloane and Jackson agree to be each other's dates for every festive occasion throughout the year, to avoid lonely holidays and dodge the questions of their nosy relatives.

The movie seamlessly takes viewers through a year of holidays filled with laughter, romantic tension, and the expected high-energy that festive occasions bring. From New Year's Eve to Cinco de Mayo to St. Patrick's Day and Easter to Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, the pair attend a swath of festive dinners, parties, and gatherings, each serving as a backdrop to their evolving friendship and burgeoning feelings for one another.

While Holidate is focused primarily on the main protagonists, it doesn't ignore the other characters. One of the memorable side-roles is played by Kristin Chenoweth, who portrays Sloane's uninhibited, free-spirited Aunt Susan. Chenoweth's role delivers comic relief and often becomes the source of sage but unconventional advice for the main characters.

This two-hour romp is a unique take on contemporary holiday movies, delivering not just one, but many holiday-themed escapades. It's not the overly sappy Hallmark-style romance but a more modern, fun, and unpredictable rom-com. Laugh-out-loud moments are balanced gracefully with poignant sequences which are bound to leave audiences rooting for the characters, willing them to realize their feelings for each other.

Chemistry and timing are the bedrock of any romantic comedy and Holidate shines in this aspect. Roberts and Bracey share a palpable chemistry, their comedic timing complemented perfectly by their hilarious banter. The mutual, friendly teasing that we see throughout the film brings a relaxed dynamic to their relationship, enhancing their on-screen connection and making their circumstances seem wholly relatable and real to viewers.

Directed by John Whitesell, Holidate is a lovely mix of hilarity and heartwarming moments. The film's screenplay, by Tiffany Paulsen, utilizes the holidays as a creative narrative tool, underlining each celebration with a bout of humor and warmth. Whitesell's direction and Paulsen's screenplay together make the film entertaining, lighthearted, while also thoughtful, giving this festive comedy a depth not always seen in the genre.

In conclusion, Holidate is a delightful, feel-good festive treat that proves to be more than just another rom-com. With engaging performances from Emma Roberts and Luke Bracey, a refreshingly original plot, and a versatile supporting cast, this movie makes for a fun, holiday-themed viewing experience. A must-watch for those who enjoy a good laugh, love festive joy, and appreciate the ups and downs of modern dating.