‘Happiest Season’: a cliche title, but a gripping movie

Whenever I see a new holiday film, I’m automatically skeptical. Why do we need more? Why do we watch every year just to be disappointed? I only watched this because I am a fan of “Schitt’s Creek” and Daniel Levy is in it. “Happiest Season” was a pleasant surprise and everyone has to watch it.

Even with my expectations set low, I still really loved this movie, especially with its beautiful depiction of two gay characters. The story centers around Abby (played by Kirsten Stewart), and her closeted girlfriend, Harper, as she attempts to force Abby back into the closet with her. This arc stuck with me specifically because I’ve seen this story play out in real life, and it’s as sad to watch in real life as it is on screen.

“Happiest Season” is a frustrating watch. The way Harper treats Abby is terrible: always acting reckless, hanging out late with her ex-boyfriend and supporting her parents’ passive-aggressive remarks towards Abby, just to name a few of Harper’s infuriating traits.

Nonetheless, I had to keep watching to see how Abby would retaliate; if she ever would. Would she stay with Harper and work toward a better relationship? Would she leave to find better relationships herself? In the end, I didn’t like Abby’s choice — but I’ll let you watch and decide for yourself.

What I will say is that that the ending is wrapped neatly with the typical rom-com-styled bow. This is why we keep watching rom-coms; we want to see the happy ending that doesn’t always show its face in real life.