'Tis the Season to Be Merry

Tis the Season to Be Merry is a charming holiday romantic comedy that was released in 2021, warming viewers' hearts with its festive spirit and the search for love and understanding during the most wonderful time of the year. The film stars Rachael Leigh Cook, known for her roles in beloved '90s films such as She's All That, alongside Travis Van Winkle from the Transformers series, and Karen Malina White, recognized for her work on television shows like The Cosby Show and Malcolm & Eddie.

Rachael Leigh Cook plays the character of Merry, a woman with a successful career as a relationship advice author and blogger. As the holiday season approaches, Merry finds herself grappling with writer's block and a looming deadline for her next book, which is supposed to be a comprehensive guide on finding love. Favored by her readers for her wisdom and heartfelt advice, Merry is under pressure to deliver yet another bestseller, but is ironically confronted with her own lack of a romantic life, having focused on her career to the exclusion of her personal happiness.

The vivacious Merry decides to take a break from her bustling city life and embarks on a trip to the picturesque town of Vermont during the Christmas season to seek inspiration and clear her mind. It is here, amid the snow-covered trees and festive decorations, that she hopes to rediscover her writing voice and, perhaps, to learn something new about love.

Travis Van Winkle plays Adam, a local community organizer and outdoorsman who is deeply passionate about his small Vermont town. Adam is a charming, handsome figure, with a smile that can light up a room and a heart dedicated to the well-being of his community. Always seen organizing activities for the local kids or rallying the townspeople together for a good cause, he embodies the holiday spirit that Merry has traveled so far to find.

With the encounter between Merry and Adam, a spark is kindled as they find themselves crossing paths frequently, often in endearing and comedic circumstances. In Adam, Merry discovers not only inspiration for her writing but also a confidant and guide to the local traditions and hidden gems of his beloved hometown. Adam, a man deeply connected to his roots, begins to show Merry the magic of a traditional Vermont Christmas, where community is everything and the spirit of giving is alive and well.

Karen Malina White plays Joy, Merry’s loyal and witty friend who works closely with her. Joy accompanies Merry on her journey to Vermont, providing a grounded perspective and often offering comic relief when Merry finds herself overwhelmed by her writing challenges or the distractions of the quaint town. Joy’s character is essential to the narrative, as her insights and frank observations serve to both support and challenge Merry in her personal quest for growth.

As the days draw nearer to Christmas, Merry and Adam spend more time together, partaking in a host of holiday activities. There are sleigh rides through snowy landscapes, baking competitions featuring delicious Christmas treats, and heartfelt conversations by the warmth of crackling fires. The film weaves between light-hearted moments and the deeper revelations of two individuals confronting what they truly desire from life and from love.

Merry discovers that love's blueprint is far more complex than her readers might expect, as real-life love is unpredictable and doesn’t always follow the neatly outlined steps found in her books. Tis the Season to Be Merry explores themes of self-discovery, authenticity, and the courage to embrace the unexpected. With each of Merry’s new experiences, her insight into love deepens, and she begins to write from a more authentic place, driven by the genuine emotions and connections sparked by her interactions with Adam and the townspeople.

Tis the Season to Be Merry is replete with the hallmarks of a classic holiday film – familial bonds, community celebrations, and a message of hope and goodwill. However, it also resonates with contemporary viewers through its exploration of the pressures of modern careers and the difficulties of finding love amid the realities of a fast-paced life. The film's soundtrack of Christmas carols and the wintry Vermont scenery set the perfect backdrop for this enchanting tale.

As viewers follow Merry's journey, they are reminded of the importance of stepping back from the rush of life to remember what makes the holidays special – the love that surrounds us, the joy of giving, and the simple pleasures found in the laughter of good company and the quiet beauty of a winter’s night. Tis the Season to Be Merry is a feel-good movie that promises laughter, a touch of romance, and a healthy dose of holiday cheer, leaving the audience reflecting on what it truly means to be merry.