Holiday Rush

Holiday Rush is a heartwarming 2019 Netflix-original Christmas movie that captures the fanfare of the festive season while drawing the viewers into the rich tapestry of familial dramas, personal challenges, and above all, love and hope. The family-centric comedic drama is driven by a standout performance from Romany Malco, with a wonderful supporting cast that includes Sonequa Martin-Green and the legendary Darlene Love, among others.

Prolific radio DJ Rashon "Rush" Williams (Romany Malco) lives a luxurious life in a sprawling mansion in New York City with his four spoiled children. As an affluent widow, he prides himself on giving his children the best life possible. However, their extravagant lifestyle is abruptly interrupted when Rush is unexpectedly fired from his well-paying job, just before Christmas. As the shock of dismissal sets in, he faces the crushing twin challenge of downscaling his family’s standards of living and finding a new way to sustain them financially.

While dealing with the torrent of drastic changes that life throws their way, Rush realizes that his stable job was as ephemeral as a sand castle, washed away quickly. Rush’s longtime producer Roxy Richardson, played by actress Sonequa Martin-Green, sympathizes with his predicament and brings forth the idea of starting their own radio station. As a further nod to the intrinsic holiday spirit, Roxy suggests they focus on Yuletide tunes; putting a quirky yet relatable spin to the classic Christmas movie scenario.

The quintessential key to this plan's success lies in an old radio station that's been abandoned for a long time, owned by none other than Rush’s Aunt Jo, aka “Aunt Jo-Jo”, played by Darlene Love, a pop singer who charms with her contagious vitality and unequivocal support. The movie adds another layer of depth by intertwining the narrative with Aunt Jo's intriguing backstory, giving viewers an added aspect to explore.

As a subplot, Rush’s children – spoiled by their father's extravaganza – need to mend their ways and learn the harsh reality of life as they are confronted with unprecedented challenges. Their transition from their luxurious life to the much downgraded, yet more joy-filled one forms a part of the narrative that evokes a lesson about life's values. As the family comes together to start their independent radio station, they toe the line between prevailing despair and newfound hope, launching their effort in the face of countless financial and logistical hurdles that stand between them and their Christmas miracle.

The narrative of Holiday Rush, subtly touches upon the journey of grief, the hustle of survival, and the essence of living a humble and satisfied life. Romany Malco’s star turn as Rush Williams is a blend of determination, vulnerability, and strength that draws the viewer into his desperate struggle and ultimate transformation. Sonequa Martin-Green as Roxy acts as a pillar of support, her nuanced performance highlighting the unwavering friendship, potential love interest, and a beacon of hope reminding Rush of his love for music and his determination to keep going even when things seem grim. Darlene Love as Aunt Jo brings a refreshing verve and vibrancy to the screen that imbues the movie with a sense of warmth and cheer, synchronising perfectly with the spirit of Christmas.

Well-supported by director Leslie Small, the film is interspersed with laughter, drained tears, small but joyful victories and poignant moments of familial love, capturing the essence of Christmas, love and family. The scenery is a visual delight showcasing the spirit of New York during Christmas time in all its magnificence - the glistening exteriors, beautiful interiors, bustling streets, all wrapped up in the warmth and color of the festive season. The exceptional music score reignites the magic of old Christmas carols while introducing some new ones - an excellent selection that compliments and further elevates the Christmas theme.

Overall, the touching narrative of Holiday Rush, complete with an ensemble cast, engaging soundtrack, and heartwarming message about the essence of Christmas and family bonds, successfully embody the spirit of the holiday season, turning it into an ideal pick for viewers who love a feel-good holiday movie during the season of joy and cheer. Holiday Rush is a vivid portrayal of an underdog story, tinged with the warmth of Christmas, and underscored by the universal theme of love, loss, and the indomitable spirit of human perseverance.