Netflix just released the new holiday romantic comedy “Meet Me Next Christmas” directed by Rusty Cundieff and starring Christina Milian as Layla, a woman racing through New York City to find tickets to a sold-out Pentatonix Christmas Eve Concert in hopes of reconnecting with her dream man. The film also features Devale Ellis, Kofi Siriboe, a cameo from comedian Kalen Allen and the members of the a cappella group Pentatonix, blending romance and music for the holiday season.
This charming film delivers everything you want in a holiday movie. It combines the magic of romance, the humor of holiday chaos and the joy of music into a heartwarming package. With a standout cast and a feel-good storyline, the movie is poised to become a modern Christmas classic.
The film is pleasing to the eye due to its setting in New York City during Christmas. The movie presents shots of the Rockefeller Center, where the towering Christmas tree and bustling ice- skating rink establish the festive tone. New York City during Christmas is nothing short of a magical sensory experience that embodies the holiday spirit like no other place in the world. The film’s setting along with Laylas journey running around the city has a similar feel to “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York.” Just like Kevin McCallister, Layla is going on side quests around the city meeting obscure characters and facing obstacles.
Layla, played by Milian, is a vibrant relatable protagonist who embodies the spirit of determination and holiday cheer. Her character’s journey reflects on the themes of love, self-confidence, and resilience as she navigates the chaos of New York City. Layla’s charisma and humor make her endearing, while her moments of vulnerability highlight her depth. Might I add, her incredible winter fashion sense elevated her character tremendously! She had a different glamorous trench coat in every scene, but my biggest takeaway from her outfits was her cozy Christmas onesie. If this movie was trying to make me buy a Christmas onesie…it worked! I never thought I needed one until after viewing this movie.
Teddy, played by Ellis, is equally captivating as the male lead. He joins Layla to find her mystery lover in a journey packed with the kind of holiday shenanigans we love, frantically running around the city lit up with twinkling lights and singing Christmas carols along their way.
Last but certainly not least, the character who is sure to bring you cheerful smiles is Jordy, played by Allen. Jordy’s witty banter and wild schemes made him standout, offering laugh-out-loud moments during the film. His character brought the “com” to rom-com.
If you are a fan of corny yet heartwarming Hallmark rom-coms, this is the type of movie you can kick back and watch with your hot cocoa and Christmas onesie this holiday season. It is a PG rated movie, so it is a perfect screening for a holiday gathering with your friends and family.
