Happiest Season

Happiest Season, which premiered in 2020, is a modern and refreshing take on a romantic comedy and holiday film genres. It is a delightful dramedy that addresses topical issues while keeping true to the spirit and warmth of the holiday season. The film stars an impressive ensemble cast which includes Kristen Stewart, Mackenzie Davis, and Mary Steenburgen among others.

The film's plot revolves around Abby, portrayed by Kristen Stewart, who has plans to propose to her girlfriend Harper, played by Mackenzie Davis, during Harper's annual family Christmas gathering. However, Abby's plan takes an unexpected turn when she realizes that Harper has not yet come out to her conservative parents. The film presents an illustrative perspective on the struggles of coming out to one's loved ones and the fears and apprehensions associated with it.

Director Clea DuVall, who co-wrote the film with Mary Holland (who also stars in the movie), places romantic comedy ingredients into a heartfelt Christmas setting. One of the key unique selling points of Happiest Season is its ability to balance relatable contemporary issues with the feel-good holiday spirit. The movie raises the universal question of whether or not you should compromise your true self for the sake of family harmony, especially during a time like Christmas which underscores the importance of unity and togetherness.

Happiest Season goes beyond the usual holiday movie tropes to tell a distinctive and understated tale about love, acceptance, and family. Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis deliver impressive performances as a couple grappling with issues of identity, tradition, acceptance, and the desire to fit in, while Mary Steenburgen plays the character of a perfectionist mother who is obsessed with keeping up appearances.

The movie does not shy away from exploring the tension and the heartache that are often hidden under the glossy facade of idealized Christmas gatherings. Instead of simply tugging on the heartstrings, it presents a masterful tour de force that respects the complexity of human emotions and relationships. It underscores the importance of being true to one's self and the magic that can happen when one is free to love authentically.

Happiest Season is set in a picturesque small town that is sauntered with all the quintessential Christmas paraphernalia like shiny trimmings, colorful lights, snowmen, and carolers. The setting adds a charm and warmth to the storyline, making it feel all the more personal and poignant. Aesthetically speaking, the film successfully recaptures the spirit of classic Christmas movies but with a modern, inclusive twist.

Overall, Happiest Season is charming, smart, heartwarming, and undeniably festive. Apart from the leading pair, the supporting cast also shines through. A notable mention goes to Dan Levy, who plays John, Abby's best friend, providing much of the film’s comic relief while also delivering a significant message about individual truth and acceptance.

With its vibrant storyline and visually appealing settings, Happiest Season is not just a movie, but a wholesome experience that leaves you with a sense of warmth and an uplifted spirit – just what one needs during the holiday season. Its quirky dialogues, complex relationships, and the excellent performances are bound to keep you hooked till the end.

Happiest Season is sure to strike a chord with audiences who appreciate romantic comedies, holiday films, and stories that explore the LGBTQ+ community’s experiences. It reveals the power of acceptance, love, and authenticity to bridge divides and create belonging, making it an important addition to the canon of holiday films. It successfully puts a contemporary spin on the holiday rom-com genre, creating a film that's equal parts hilarious, poignant, and heartwarming.

Just as real life isn't perfect, the same applies to Christmas. That’s what makes Happiest Season unique among holiday films; it doesn't sugarcoat reality. It shows the messy, complex, and awkward moments that real families experience during holiday gatherings. But most importantly, it explores the joy of love, understanding, and acceptance in all its forms – making it an honest, relatable, and a truly captivating watch.