See You Next Christmas

See You Next Christmas seems like it's going to be filled with old predictable tropes, but it's not. It's a great premise executed in an unexpected way. As the years go by, the main characters meet, seem like they're going to fall in love, and then are disappointed by each other-- which is pretty similar to how things usually go in real life... But over time, we really start to wonder if these two people can ever get together, which gives the movie a lot of suspense for a romantic comedy. Also impressive that the filmmakers attempted to make a Christmas movie on a budget. Most indie films don't have the guts to try that, because Christmas can be so lavish and elaborate, which gets expensive fast. The key seems to be to keep it grounded and localized in one place. The approach to filmmaking is in a lot of ways as clever as the film.

Watching See You Next Christmas catapulted me into the feeling of a warm, honest family tradition at the holidays. I loved the way this community of characters celebrates each year through all the many and massive changes in their lives. It doesn't shy away from the real, awkward scenarios that can present themselves during times of holiday stress. The close knit relationships definitely go through some realistic conflict, and the portrayal of strangers at a party definitely reminded me of some I've attended myself. The characters are fun, nuanced, and compelling, and the movie breathes a refreshing air of authenticity I want to see again next Christmas.

This reminded me of old school Miramax films, great dialogue, funny actors, tight script. Just all around a well made indie. I especially enjoyed the chemistry between our leads, and the people at the party are weaving in and out of the story that reminds me of films like The Party, or 200 Cigarettes. If you're looking for a fresh modern spin on the classic Christmas can be chaos story, I recommend this. This was also written and directed by Christine Weatherup who managed the Herculean task of producing an indie film during the time of Superhero movies. It's nice seeing things coming out of Hollywood with character driven storylines and snappy dialogue. I look forward to whatever is next on her plate.

It's a nice change to have an indie Christmas film have more depth than the typical Hallmark channel flick. I genuinely enjoyed the flick and I didn't even watch it at Christmas time with all the normal pre-built in Christmas feels. It can be hard to get into indie films because they don't have known faces that we are already attached to, but after a couple scenes I was all in with all the characters and didn't care that I didn't know them before this. The film has laughs, heart, and no over the top sappy storyline. Grab some popcorn, put on comfy PJ's, and just enjoy a little time away from the chaos that is life.

"See You Next Christmas," an independent Christmas film directed by Christine Weatherup, stands out as a delightful and charming addition to the holiday movie canon. This enchanting story unfolds over multiple Christmas parties, capturing the magic of the season and the evolution of a blossoming romance. With its heartfelt narrative and authentic performances, the film reminds us of the joy, serendipity, and connection that the holiday season can bring.

Elizabeth Guest's portrayal of Natalie is both nuanced and captivating. She perfectly captures the vulnerability and growth of her character, making Natalie's journey from a shy artist to a confident individual incredibly believable.

Direction and Cinematography

Director Christine Weatherup skillfully balances humor, romance, and drama, creating a film that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. Her direction ensures that each Christmas party feels distinct yet thematically cohesive, capturing the essence of the festive season. The film's pacing is well-executed, allowing the relationship between the leads to unfold naturally without feeling rushed or forced.

Themes and Impact "See You Next Christmas" explores themes of love, personal growth, and the passage of time. The film poignantly illustrates how people change and evolve, and how meaningful connections can develop in the most unexpected ways. It also highlights the importance of seizing the moment and embracing vulnerability, especially in the context of love.

The recurring motif of Christmas parties serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the opportunities each new year brings. The film's message is uplifting, encouraging viewers to cherish the present and remain open to new experiences and relationships.

Conclusion "See You Next Christmas" is a charming and heartfelt Christmas movie that stands out for its authentic portrayal of love and personal growth. While it follows some familiar romantic tropes, the execution is so sincere and engaging that it feels fresh and endearing.

For those looking to get into the holiday spirit with a film that offers both warmth and depth, "See You Next Christmas" is a perfect choice. It's a reminder that the magic of Christmas often lies in the connections we make and the love we share, making it a film that resonates long after the credits roll.