If you’ve ever thought of outsourcing holiday awkwardness to a partner-for-hire, Holidate offers a whimsical look at just that. Released in 2020, this romantic comedy stars Emma Roberts as Sloane and Luke Bracey as Jackson, two singles tired of their families pressuring them into relationships. The story unfolds across a series of holidays in Chicago, capturing the warmth, chaos, and quirks of seasonal celebrations. Directed by John Whitesell, this feel-good rom-com blends the escapism of holiday movies with the modern-day cynicism of dating in a way that feels both relatable and entertaining.
The plot centers on two strangers who meet after disastrous holiday experiences and strike a deal to be each other’s “holidate”—a partner to bring to all holiday gatherings, without the expectations or emotions of a real relationship. As they navigate New Year’s Eve, Easter, Independence Day, and other holidays, the two form a light-hearted connection, enjoying the simplicity of no-strings-attached companionship. But as the holidays roll by, the boundaries between friendship and romance begin to blur, leading to all the classic romantic comedy dilemmas. The film keeps the narrative engaging, even if you can predict the beats, without giving away too much about how their relationship evolves.
One of the film’s strongest aspects is its acting. Emma brings a sharp, sarcastic edge to Sloane, portraying her as a jaded, fiercely independent woman who is refreshingly blunt about her views on relationships. She delivers her lines with a witty, almost deadpan humor that complements the light-hearted tone of the film. Luke, as the carefree Jackson, exudes charm and laid-back confidence, making his chemistry with Emma feel effortless and believable. Their banter, filled with humorous one-liners and playful digs, is the heart of the film, driving much of the story’s charm. They carry the film’s weight, and while the premise could feel gimmicky, the actors manage to make it more enjoyable with their natural performances.
Another element that stands out is the direction and pacing. John Whitesell maintains a breezy, light tone throughout the film, ensuring that it never lingers too long on emotional depth, which aligns with the film’s purpose as a fun holiday watch. The cinematography, while not particularly groundbreaking, does a good job of capturing the festive spirit of each holiday. Whether it’s the twinkling lights of Christmas or the fireworks on Independence Day, the visuals successfully bring a warm, holiday atmosphere to the forefront. These settings are effectively used to highlight the progression of Sloane and Jackson’s relationship, subtly marking the passage of time and the deepening of their bond.
The costume design also deserves a mention, with each holiday bringing its own unique wardrobe flair. From Halloween costumes to Christmas sweaters, the outfits not only reflect the festive spirit but also the evolving dynamic between Sloane and Jackson. Their playful, quirky wardrobe choices during each holiday celebration enhance the fun, carefree vibe of the movie, adding an extra layer of visual interest without overwhelming the narrative.
In terms of music, Holidate opts for a mix of popular songs and traditional holiday tunes that complement its light, comedic tone. The soundtrack, though not particularly memorable on its own, serves its purpose in reinforcing the film’s holiday theme. It helps maintain the energy during pivotal moments, like party scenes or romantic gestures, ensuring the mood remains upbeat. However, it’s not a film where the music plays a central role—it’s more of a background element that ties the festive scenes together.
As for the themes, Holidate plays with the idea of modern romance and the pressures that come with societal expectations, particularly around holidays. The film pokes fun at the desperation to avoid loneliness during significant family gatherings, while also subtly exploring the complexities of friendship and romantic feelings. It stays true to the genre’s predictable structure but adds a layer of humor that feels fresh in today’s dating culture, making it feel more relevant than the average holiday rom-com.
In the end, Holidate is exactly what you would expect from a seasonal romantic comedy. It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel, but it doesn’t need to. The film succeeds in being a light, entertaining escape, perfect for when you want something humorous and heartwarming without a heavy emotional toll. Emma and Luke’s chemistry makes it easy to root for the characters, even as they stumble through familiar romantic tropes. If you’re in the mood for something fun, with a touch of holiday magic and some laugh-out-loud moments, this movie will deliver. While it may not be the most groundbreaking rom-com, it’s a solid choice for fans of the genre looking for a feel-good, no-pressure watch.
