Single All the Way

Single All the Way is a heartwarming comedy and family drama graced with the spirit of the holiday season. This 2021 movie, set with a Christmas backdrop, nestles comfortably in the genre of gay rom-coms making headway in mainstream media. Directed by Michael Mayer, the movie stars Michael Urie, Philemon Chambers, and Luke Macfarlane. This film is a delight to those who enjoy a good sprinkling of clichés, witty banter, and the warm fuzziness of the holiday season.

Starring the vibrant Michael Urie in the lead role as Peter, a perennially single man approaching his mid-thirties, it portrays the charismatic actor in a landscape that is all too real for some. Peter is successful and independent but perpetually unlucky when it comes to matters of love. A common enough scenario, but the movie weaves it into a narrative full of comedic moments and feel-good drama.

While dwelling in the city of Los Angeles, Peter is reminded about the upcoming holidays by his family, and reluctantly decides to pay them a visit home. However, the dread of the interrogation about his non-existent significant other at the family Christmas gathering in New Hampshire looms large. In his situation, his best friend and roommate Nick, convincingly played by Philemon Chambers, playfully agrees to tag along and act as Peter's boyfriend just to escape the constant nagging about his single status.

The charm of Single All The Way lies in the intricate dynamics among the characters, the quirky repartee they have, and the induction of earnest feelings into the holiday-themed narrative. The film unspools beautifully in the cozy, small-town setting of New Hampshire. Snowy landscapes and holiday décor light up the screen and underscore the importance of home and family. As Peter noses around his old place, we are introduced to his loving but nosey family that bring larger-than-life personalities.

Luke Macfarlane brings to the table the character of James, Peter's high school friend, who happens to be staying close to Peter’s familial home for the holidays. James' character introduction adds an interesting dynamic to the narrative, triggering a series of events that make for engaging viewing. It also evokes lots of laughter as Peter's family gets involved in his love life and tries playing match-maker, not knowing about the pact between Peter and Nick.

The movie tries to showcase that love doesn't see gender and anyone can find themselves in the misadventures and miscalculated love stories depicted. It explores the bond of friendship and discovering love in the most unexpected places. There are moments of hilarity, warmth and nostalgic family scenes that together beautifully capture the spirit of love, be it familial love, friendship, or romantic involvement.

The highlight of Single All The Way is its inclusive showcase of love while keeping the theme relatable whether you are part of the LGBTQ+ community or not. It doesn’t shy away from typical romantic comedy tropes but it marries them with some tasteful, realistic portrayals of a modern gay man's experience. Kudos to the performances of the lead actors who lend credibility to their characters and demonstrate radiant chemistry, making you cheer for them, regardless of the predictable format of the genre.

Besides, the pervasive Christmas spirit adds a layer of joy and hope that is quintessential in films of this genre. The superb camera work amplifies the charm of Christmas by capturing the decorations, the shimmering lights, and snow-covered landscapes. The importance of family, the warmth of a homely Christmas, and the yearning for love and acceptance come through strongly in Single All The Way without numbing the viewers with excessive sentimentality.

Laden with the quintessence of family drama, endearing romance, comedy, and the nostalgia of a small town Christmas, Single All The Way is an entertaining, light-hearted flick that is high on festive spirits and inclusive love. Single All The Way is a beautiful Christmas movie that encapsulates love, friendship, acceptance, and family ties, all wrapped up in a holiday-season bow. It's a sweet, unobtrusive treat to enjoy during the holidays for anyone who appreciates a thematic blend of Christmas cheer and contemporary gay romance.