Holidate (2020)

Holidate features a story that, while somewhat cliché, is presented with engaging narration. The film introduces Sloane and Jackson and naturally develops their “holidate” arrangement through relatable holiday situations. Character development is balanced and the relationship starts off in a believable and smooth way. Conflict builds gradually as feelings grow between the characters, with dialogue hinting at inevitable rule-breaking. Sloane’s internal struggles add emotional depth, leading to tension and a climax in their relationship. The resolution revisits their initial meeting, symbolizing growth and healing as they overcome personal issues. The acting is natural with clear chemistry among both main and supporting actors, each given fitting screen time. Cinematography pays attention to detail, and subtle humor adds charm, including clever visual gags. Music effectively supports the mood, making the film an enjoyable, relatable, and lighthearted watch. Read the full review here: (Indonesian version : alunauwie.com) and (English version : uwiepuspita.com)

I found Holidate to be a fun, entertaining Christmas movie. And really, that is all I ask for a new holiday movie. I probably could have focused and punched holes in it here and there, but I try to be a viewer first and a critic third. I liked that the story paid attention to all of the characters, it seemed. Aunt Susan and Sloane’s sister and a few others have plot developments as part of the overall fun and they are given a measure of closure at the end. Hey, I don’t see Holidate gaining entry into my cycle of Christmas movies I watch every year or two, but it is a pleasant diversion and I wouldn’t go out of my way to not watch it.

Not good, not bad. Just meh. Emma Roberts and Luke Bracey make for a charming duo, Roberts in particular stands out. The premise they star in is an interesting one, I don't really have any issues with 'Holidate' - it's fine. It just lacks the necessary cohesion and entertainment, there are a few amusing moments but not nearly enough. The overly sappy ending is out of place, also.

Really good watch, would watch again, and can recommend. An odd, jaded, but good approach to the social pressures of being single, but dateable. I guess other people see it as wasted resource, I wouldn't know. Realistically, this is as much a breakup recovery movie as it is a romantic comedy. The cast does a great job of subtly expressing things without it being obvious. Ultimately it's a cute and charming little movie from a jaded and socially abnormal stand point. The biggest problem is that they spend a lot of time saying "this works", "this is normal", with the impending implication that they'll get together, and being that it is a romantic comedy, it should be obvious what the conclusion is. If you're a fan of Emma Roberts, then you can definitely see her grow in this, proving her range.