The Mistletoe Secret

The Mistletoe Secret is a 2019 heartwarming and feel-good holiday movie directed by Terry Ingram and starring Kellie Pickler, Tyler Hynes, and Christopher Russell. This charmingly festive picture, based on a novel of the same name by Richard Paul Evans, showcases the magic of Christmastime with elements of romance, comedy, and town-wide camaraderie sprinkled in its narrative.

The Mistletoe Secret follows the journey of Aria Eubank (played by Kellie Pickler), a vivacious and enthusiastic woman who is deeply devoted to her small, tight-knit Midwestern town named Midway. Midway, struggling economically, fits the profile of America’s Most Christmas-y Town—a campaign in search of small-town charm for their latest Christmas special. Aria hopes to win this competition and put Midway on the map, bringing new life to the town she adores.

Midway’s Christmas spirit is wrapped in its unique traditions, one of which being the enchanting Mistletoe Diner—a charming, time-honored local eatery known for its namesake tradition of couples kissing under the mistletoe. Aria, who helps run the diner, uses this local quirk among others as the cornerstone of her town's application for the competition, hoping that its unique charm would sway the decision in their favor.

Enter Alex Bartlett (played by Tyler Hynes), a travel and tourism writer who is sent ahead by his boss to scope out the town under the alias of a simple research assistant while his well-known boss, Sterling Masters (Christopher Russell), proceeds with the larger tour. Alex becomes enamoured with Midway and its quaint traditions as he experiences the special warmth of the local community. Even more, he finds himself drawn to the magnetic Aria, who in turn is attracted to Sterling Masters—the esteemed travel writer—without knowing that it is Alex who is truly behind the beautiful articles she's been reading.

Aria and Alex form a fond friendship, working together to showcase Midway's magic while Alex carefully maintains his charade. The close-knit community spirit, bustling town square, charming local traditions, and heartwarming interactions take centre stage as Aria and Alex balance their growing feelings and the desire to win the competition for Midway.

The Mistletoe Secret offers a delightful look at small-town life, highlighting the unique appeal of hometown customs that create a festive atmosphere. An essential theme running throughout the movie is the significance of honesty—not just in journalistic practice but in life and relationships. Moreover, the film embodies the genuine spirit of Christmas, defining it not just through decorations and traditions, but with a sense of hope, the joy of giving, and the magic of unity and togetherness.

Kellie Pickler, Tyler Hynes, and Christopher Russell bring their characters to life with fabulous performances. Pickler’s Aria charms with her radiant optimism, while Hynes skillfully navigates through the complexities of Alex’s character who’s torn between his job and his heart. And Russell delivers a credible performance as the famous yet elusive Sterling Masters, unknowingly becoming a pivot in the narrative arc.

A facet of this film that sets it apart is its focus on exciting food and it's role in Midway's Christmas traditions. The Mistletoe Diner's Christmas menu offers a lavish visual feast that warms the heart and delights the senses. It serves not only as a backdrop for the main characters' story but also as a character in its own right.

The Mistletoe Secret is a seasonal treat, showcasing the magic, hope, and love that define the spirit of Christmas. It offers everything viewers look forward to in a holiday film, including charming characters, small-town magic, delightful food, a vibrant Christmas-y atmosphere, and a tender, blossoming romance. It's a warm, touching movie that manages to capture the essence of the holiday season and the significance of honesty, friendship, and love. So, pour a cup of hot cacao, cozy up on the sofa, and immerse yourself in this enchanting Christmas tale.