When the holiday season arrives, most families gather around a table piled high with turkey, mashed potatoes, and—inevitably—unresolved emotional baggage. But while traditional Christmas movies often sidestep the complexities of family dynamics, Happiest Season (2020) dives headfirst into the chaos, humor, and heart of queer holiday experiences. Directed by Clea DuVall and co-written by DuVall and Mary Holland, this film isn’t just another festive flick; it’s a groundbreaking exploration of love, identity, and the messy reality of coming out to family.
Set against the backdrop of a cozy, snow-dusted Pennsylvania town, Happiest Season follows Abby (Kristen Stewart), a committed but closeted relationship with Harper (Mackenzie Davis), whose conservative family has gathered for Christmas. When Abby arrives for the holidays, she quickly realizes that Harper hasn’t told her family the truth about their relationship—and the weekend spirals into a series of miscommunications, awkward encounters, and, ultimately, a heartfelt reckoning with authenticity. With sharp writing, standout performances, and a refreshing take on LGBTQ+ storytelling, this film redefines what a holiday movie can be.
Breaking Down the Plot: A Queer Holiday in Disguise
The premise of Happiest Season is deceptively simple: a couple visits the family of one partner for Christmas, only to discover that the other partner is in the closet. But beneath its holiday sheen, the film explores themes of self-acceptance, familial expectations, and the pressure to conform. Abby, a successful but struggling writer, is madly in love with Harper, a successful marketing executive who comes from a wealthy, traditional family. When Abby arrives for the holidays, she’s greeted by Harper’s parents (Mary Steenburgen and Victor Garber), sister (Kristen Wiig), and a host of extended family members who are blissfully unaware that Abby and Harper are a couple.
The tension escalates when Harper’s family assumes Abby is just a childhood friend visiting for the holidays. Abby, ever the optimist, plays along—until the lies start to pile up. From Harper’s sister Jane (Wiig), who’s wrestling with her own identity and career aspirations, to her mother, who harbors her own secrets, the film weaves together multiple storylines that reflect the diverse experiences of queer individuals and their families. By the time the credits roll, Happiest Season has transformed from a lighthearted holiday romp into a poignant reflection on what it means to be true to yourself.
The Cast: A Dream Team of Talent
One of the strongest aspects of Happiest Season is its ensemble cast, which brings depth, humor, and heart to every scene. At the center is Kristen Stewart as Abby, whose portrayal of a woman trying to balance love and authenticity is both relatable and compelling. Stewart, known for her roles in the Twilight series and Charlie’s Angels, brings a quiet intensity to Abby, making her frustration, vulnerability, and eventual triumph feel earned.
Mackenzie Davis shines as Harper, a woman caught between her love for Abby and her fear of disappointing her family. Davis, who previously starred in Terminator: Dark Fate and I Am Mother, brings a warmth and authenticity to Harper that makes her struggles feel deeply personal. The chemistry between Stewart and Davis is electric, grounding the film’s emotional core in their believable connection.
No discussion of the cast would be complete without mentioning Kristen Wiig as Jane, Harper’s sister. Wiig, known for her comedic chops in Bridesmaids and Saturday Night Live, delivers a standout performance as a woman navigating her own insecurities while grappling with her family’s expectations. Her character’s arc—from a somewhat self-absorbed aspiring singer to a more self-aware and supportive figure—adds layers of nuance to the film.
The supporting cast is equally impressive. Mary Steenburgen and Victor Garber play Harper’s parents, and their performances ground the film’s more comedic moments in a sense of realism. Aubrey Plaza, as Harper’s cousin Riley, adds a touch of cynicism and humor, while Mary Holland, who co-wrote the film, brings her signature wit to the role of Harper’s childhood friend, Jill. Together, the cast creates a dynamic that feels both authentic and engaging, making Happiest Season as much a character study as it is a holiday movie.
Queer Representation: A Step Forward for Holiday Cinema
Before Happiest Season, LGBTQ+ holiday movies were few and far between. While films like The Christmas House and Dumped for Christmas have featured queer characters, none have tackled the subject with the depth and nuance that Happiest Season does. The film’s portrayal of a queer relationship isn’t just a subplot—it’s the driving force of the story. Abby and Harper’s love story is treated with the same weight as any heterosexual romance in a holiday film, which is a refreshing change of pace.
Moreover, Happiest Season doesn’t shy away from the complexities of queer identity. Abby isn’t just dealing with a homophobic family; she’s also navigating her own insecurities about being out and proud. The film doesn’t offer easy solutions or a perfect happily-ever-after, instead presenting a more realistic portrayal of what it means to come out and be accepted. This level of authenticity is rare in mainstream holiday films, making Happiest Season a standout in the genre.
The film’s representation extends beyond Abby and Harper. Jane’s character, for example, explores the nuances of queer identity in a way that feels organic and not forced. Her journey from a woman who’s unsure of her own desires to one who embraces her truth is a testament to the film’s commitment to diverse storytelling. Even characters like Jill, who are more on the periphery, add to the film’s inclusive narrative, making Happiest Season feel like a celebration of queer experiences rather than a tokenistic inclusion.
Humor and Heart: The Perfect Holiday Balancing Act
Holiday movies thrive on a delicate balance between humor and heart, and Happiest Season nails it. The film’s comedic moments are sharp and well-timed, providing levity without undermining the emotional stakes. Kristen Wiig’s Jane, with her exaggerated reactions and over-the-top singing voice, steals nearly every scene she’s in. Meanwhile, Aubrey Plaza’s Riley delivers deadpan humor that grounds the film’s more dramatic moments.
But the humor isn’t just there for laughs; it serves a purpose. The film uses comedy to highlight the absurdity of Harper’s situation and the lengths to which she goes to avoid the truth. Abby’s frustration, for example, is often played for laughs, but it’s also a reflection of the emotional toll of being in a relationship where one partner isn’t fully out. This interplay between humor and heart is what makes Happiest Season so special. It doesn’t shy away from the messiness of life but finds joy in the chaos.
The heart of the film, however, lies in its emotional core. Abby and Harper’s relationship is portrayed with a tenderness that feels genuine, making their struggles and triumphs all the more impactful. The film doesn’t shy away from the pain of Harper’s secrecy or the frustration of Abby’s situation, but it also doesn’t dwell on it for too long. Instead, it finds a balance that allows the story to feel both uplifting and realistic.
The Holiday Aesthetic: A Cozy, Snowy Escape
Beyond its compelling story and stellar cast, Happiest Season is a visual treat. The film’s holiday aesthetic is cozy and inviting, from the snow-dusted streets of Harper’s hometown to the warm, cluttered interiors of her family’s home. The cinematography, by Polly Morgan, captures the magic of the season without resorting to clichés. The use of soft lighting, warm colors, and festive decorations creates a sense of nostalgia and comfort, making the film feel like a holiday hug.
The setting itself plays a crucial role in the story. Harper’s family home is the embodiment of a traditional Christmas, complete with matching sweaters, a perfectly decorated tree, and a table groaning under the weight of holiday dishes. This contrast between Harper’s polished, picture-perfect world and Abby’s more bohemian, lived-in lifestyle highlights the differences between the two women and sets the stage for their conflicts. The holiday aesthetic isn’t just window dressing; it’s an integral part of the film’s narrative and emotional resonance.
Moreover, the holiday setting allows the film to explore themes of family, tradition, and belonging in a way that feels universally relatable. Whether it’s the chaos of last-minute gift shopping or the pressure to perform holiday cheer, Happiest Season taps into the shared experiences of the season while also carving out space for queer narratives. It’s a reminder that the holidays aren’t just about snow and mistletoe; they’re about the people we choose to surround ourselves with and the truths we’re finally ready to share.
Criticisms and Room for Improvement
No film is perfect, and Happiest Season has its share of criticisms. One of the most common complaints is that Harper’s character can come across as selfish or weak for not being out to her family. While it’s understandable that Harper is afraid of disappointing her parents, her decision to keep Abby a secret for so long feels like a missed opportunity for the film to explore the nuances of queer identity more deeply. Some viewers might argue that Harper’s arc could have been more nuanced, with her struggle feeling less like a plot device and more like a genuine reflection of the challenges many queer individuals face.
Another criticism is that the film’s pacing can feel uneven at times. While the first act establishes the characters and their relationships well, the second act drags slightly, particularly during the family dinner scene where the tension reaches a boiling point. The film’s emotional climax also feels somewhat rushed, with Abby and Harper’s resolution arriving a little too neatly. Some viewers might argue that a slower, more deliberate build to the finale would have made the payoff feel more earned.
Finally, while the film’s representation is groundbreaking, it’s not without its flaws. Some queer viewers have pointed out that Harper’s family, while not outright villainous, still perpetuates harmful stereotypes about LGBTQ+ individuals. Harper’s mother, for example, is portrayed as a somewhat clueless but ultimately well-meaning figure, rather than someone who actively opposes queer identities. While this reflects the experiences of some queer individuals, it also glosses over the very real and often painful realities of coming out to unsupportive families.
Why This Film Matters for LGBTQ+ Representation
Despite its flaws, Happiest Season is a landmark film for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream cinema. For decades, queer stories in film were either sidelined, fetishized, or reduced to stereotypes. Films like Brokeback Mountain and Moonlight have pushed boundaries, but they often focus on the pain and struggle of queer identity rather than the joy and complexity of queer love. Happiest Season, on the other hand, offers a refreshing alternative: a story that celebrates queer love while also acknowledging its challenges.
The film’s release in 2020 was particularly significant. At a time when LGBTQ+ rights were under attack in many parts of the world, Happiest Season served as a reminder of the power of authenticity and the importance of visibility. It’s a film that doesn’t just ask queer audiences to be seen; it demands that they be heard. By centering a queer relationship in a holiday movie, the film challenges the notion that queer stories are niche or secondary. Instead, it presents them as universal, relatable, and worthy of celebration.
Moreover, Happiest Season is a testament to the power of queer storytelling in mainstream cinema. Before its release, LGBTQ+ holiday films were few and far between, and those that did exist often relied on tired tropes or one-dimensional characters. Happiest Season changed that by offering a story that feels both groundbreaking and deeply human. It’s a film that doesn’t just cater to queer audiences; it invites all viewers to see the world through a queer lens, if only for a couple of hours.
Where to Watch and How to Support the Film
If you’re eager to watch Happiest Season, you’re in luck—it’s widely available on streaming platforms. The film is currently available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and Vudu. It’s also available to stream on Hulu, making it easy to add to your holiday movie marathon. If you’re looking to support the film directly, consider purchasing a copy on Blu-ray or DVD, which often includes bonus features like behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the cast and crew.
Supporting Happiest Season doesn’t just mean watching it; it means advocating for more queer stories in mainstream cinema. Share the film with friends and family, leave a review on platforms like IMDb or Rotten Tomatoes, and engage in conversations about the importance of representation. The more we celebrate films like Happiest Season, the more we create space for future queer stories to thrive.
Additionally, consider supporting the organizations and initiatives that work to uplift LGBTQ+ voices in film and media. Organizations like GLAAD, The Trevor Project, and The Human Rights Campaign are dedicated to promoting equality and visibility for queer individuals. By supporting these organizations, you’re helping to ensure that films like Happiest Season aren’t just anomalies but the beginning of a new era of inclusive storytelling.
Final Thoughts: A Near-Perfect Queer Holiday Fantasy
Happiest Season isn’t just a holiday movie; it’s a celebration of queer love, identity, and the messy reality of family dynamics. With its sharp writing, standout performances, and groundbreaking representation, it redefines what a holiday film can be. While it’s not without its flaws, the film’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves holiday movies, queer stories, or just a good, heartfelt film.
The film’s power lies in its ability to balance humor, heart, and authenticity. It doesn’t shy away from the challenges of queer identity but finds joy in the chaos of life and love. Abby and Harper’s relationship feels genuine, their struggles feel real, and their triumphs feel earned. In a genre that often prioritizes formulaic happy endings, Happiest Season offers something rarer and more valuable: a story that feels true to life.
As we head into the holiday season, Happiest Season is a reminder that the best stories aren’t just about snow and mistletoe; they’re about the people we love and the truths we’re finally ready to share. It’s a film that celebrates queer joy, even in the face of adversity, and that’s something worth celebrating. So grab a cup of cocoa, cozy up on the couch, and prepare to fall in love with Happiest Season. It’s a queer holiday fantasy that’s almost perfect—and in a world that often feels anything but, that’s more than enough.
Conclusion
In the crowded landscape of holiday movies, Happiest Season stands out as a beacon of authenticity, humor, and heart. It’s a film that refuses to simplify the complexities of queer identity, opting instead to embrace the messiness of life and love. With its stellar cast, sharp writing, and groundbreaking representation, it’s a movie that doesn’t just celebrate the holiday season—it redefines it.
While no film is perfect, Happiest Season comes close. It’s a story that feels both universal and deeply personal, a holiday fantasy that’s rooted in reality. Whether you’re a fan of holiday movies, queer stories, or just great filmmaking, this film is a must-watch. So this season, why not ditch the same old holiday classics and give Happiest Season a chance? You might just find that it’s the most heartwarming film you’ll watch all year.
As we navigate a world that often feels divided, Happiest Season offers a simple but powerful message: love is love, and everyone deserves to be seen for who they truly are. In a genre that often prioritizes escapism, this film dares to ground its magic in the
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