Operation Christmas Drop

Operation Christmas Drop is an uplifting 2020 holiday film distributed by Netflix, featuring an array of talented actors including Kat Graham, Alexander Ludwig, and Trezzo Mahoro. The feel-good film is inspired by the real-life humanitarian operation of the same name run by the United States Air Force. The film does a fantastic job of providing a heartwarming viewing experience while shedding light on the incredible logistics and passionate commitments behind annual holiday charity works.

The story is set against the warm tropical paradise of Guam and the Andersen U.S. Air Force Base. The film's lead characters are two contrasting individuals from vastly different life experiences, yet they're on a shared journey unknowingly heading towards a mutual appreciation of selflessness and the holiday spirit.

Erica Miller (Kat Graham) works as a political aide to a high-ranking congresswoman in Washington D.C. Highly dedicated and ambitious, Erica is given an unexpected assignment during the holiday season to audit a U.S. Air Force base in Guam, effectively thwarting her holiday plans. She is to investigate the legitimacy of the base's long standing tradition - Operation Christmas Drop, a yearly mission in which supplies are being air dropped to remote islands across the Pacific.

Captain Andrew Jantz (Alexander Ludwig) is an Air Force pilot who is deeply involved with the base's holiday tradition. He is the human embodiment of the Christmas spirit and the driving force behind the operation. He literally drops everything for it – even his personal interests. Given his commitment to the tradition, he is less than thrilled with Erica's arrival and the potential outcome of scratching the tradition from the Air Force’s budget.

As Erica begins her audit, she is armed with skepticism and armed with a to-do list: achieving her ambitious, career-driven goals. However, things don’t proceed quite as she had planned. The tropical warmth of Guam, the endearing charm of Andrew and the up-close encounter with the genuine intentions behind the operation introduce a perspective she never saw coming.

Watch as the pair navigate the professional tension and chemistry between them, set amidst picturesque cinematography featuring vibrant landscapes and cheerful holiday decor. Director Martin Wood brings to life a classic tale of two differing perspectives converging towards a shared goal of spreading happiness and spirit of giving.

The movie beautifully showcases the remote Pacific Island communities, their culture, and resilience while also highlighting how the annual drop serves as a lifeline. The spit-take comedic vibe offered by interacting personalities, coupled with the tropical setting, adds a unique touch to the usual holiday rom-com experience.

The film introduces the audience to the real Operation Christmas Drop, which has been providing critical supplies to remote Micronesian islands since 1952, making it the longest-running humanitarian airlift in the world. It successfully reflects on the spirit of giving, using the military’s unique position to assist some of the most isolated communities in the Pacific.

Kat Graham brings sincere warmth to her character, Erica, transitioning beautifully from a skeptic to someone who appreciates the value of the operation. In contrast, Alexander Ludwig showcases a charming, altruistic personality who, despite his professional demeanor, never fails to highlight the joyous spirit of Christmas. Trezzo Mahoro offers a light-hearted performance as the loyal sidekick and friend to Andrew, adding a delightful touch.

So get ready for a joyous ride with Operation Christmas Drop that lends more than just a usual rom-com experience. It is not only a warm holiday film, but a salute to the humanitarian efforts often put forth by unsung heroes. It emphasizes the joy of giving and the spirit of community, making it an ideal watch this festive season. Feel good and make a difference. Because at its very heart, this is what Operation Christmas Drop aspires to do.