See You Next Christmas

I've surveyed way more than my fair share of bingeable holiday films and am a bit of a Christmas genre amateur connoisseur. See you next Christmas grounds holiday joy, magic, and traditions, and is a totally fresh take on a Christmas rom-com. The story is lovely. The cast is charming. It was so fun to see the husband from Brooklyn 99 (Marc Evan Jackson). The Christmas vibes are endless.

This coming of age (from carefree post-college years, to folks coupling off, buying houses, and some having kids) filled me with nostalgia, warm fuzzies, and a need to plan a holiday party. This will certainly be a repeat watch each December!

Love this film. It has heart, comedy, romance, a whole lotta holiday spirit, and a mega high re-watchability quotient. It's one that will be in your Christmas movie rotation for forever!

This film gets the 'growing up' aspects of adulthood spot on. It appeals to the older millennials out there considering moving from apartments to houses or having kids. Writer/director Weatherup really nails these emotions and the actors do a fantastic job of being both believable and hilarious.

You'll really appreciate the banter, the antics, and the fun cameo. It makes me want to go to Clarkmas this year and every year.

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.

See You Next Christmas captures the joys and turns of adulting with good friends after college. The reality of the holidays is a backbone that brings us back to Clarkmas every year to mark life's milestones across your close-knit group. It has love, reflection, and laugh out loud moments! It was fun to watch!

"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.