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As the holiday season approaches, it’s tempting to cozy up with a festive film. However, not all that glitters is tinsel. Here are our top picks of Christmas movies to avoid this year:
Red One
Imagine Santa Claus kidnapped, and the rescue mission led by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Chris Evans. Sounds thrilling? Think again. “Red One” attempts to blend action and holiday cheer but ends up as a lump of coal in your cinematic stocking. Critics have been less than kind, and despite a hefty budget, the film grossed only $175.8 million worldwide, making it a perfect example of a box-office bomb. While some audience members found it entertaining, the overall consensus suggests that “Red One” is a holiday adventure best left unwrapped.
Hot Frosty
If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if Frosty the Snowman hit the gym and starred in a romantic comedy, “Hot Frosty” answers that question—and not in a good way. Lacey Chabert plays a widow who brings a snowman to life, portrayed by Dustin Milligan, leading to a romance as believable as, well, dating a snowman. While the movie does have some so-bad-it’s-almost-entertaining moments, it is utterly ridiculous and nowhere nearly as funny as it wants to be. If you’re in the mood for unintentional comedy and a plot that melts under scrutiny, “Hot Frosty” might be your pick. Otherwise, stay far away.
Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point
Family gatherings can be dramatic, but “Christmas Eve in Miller’s Point” takes it to a new level—one that plummets into the abyss of holiday despair. The film follows the Balsano family’s final Christmas in their ancestral home, with teenage rebellion thrown in for good measure. Despite a cast that includes Michael Cera and Elsie Fisher, the film premiered at Cannes to a lukewarm reception and has since faded into obscurity faster than last year’s fruitcake. Unless you’re looking to dampen your holiday spirit, this is one to skip.
Meet Me Next Christmas
Desperation leads a woman to attend a sold-out Pentatonix concert on Christmas Eve. That’s the premise of “Meet Me Next Christmas,” a film that tries to harmonize holiday romance with musical obsession but hits all the wrong notes. It is certainly not among Netflix’s best holiday offerings, feeling somewhat dated and desperately lacking compelling romance. Even appearances by the Pentatonix members can’t save this film from being as forgettable as last year’s Christmas playlist.
This holiday season, save your time and sanity by steering clear of these festive flops. There are plenty of other films that capture the magic of Christmas without leaving you saying, “Bah, humbug!”.
