Representation of queer women in television and film remains woefully inadequate. We occasionally see characters who identify as queer, but it’s rare for them to take center stage. This is why the release of Happiest Season, directed by Clea Duvall, was met with such enthusiasm; it features queer women as the protagonists. Finally, we have a chance to enjoy a feel-good holiday rom-com that reflects our experiences. However, while the film does deliver some joy, it doesn’t quite capture the lightheartedness many were hoping for, leading to disappointment among some queer audiences. Despite its shortcomings, it still offers an entertaining holiday viewing experience.
As a romantic comedy, Happiest Season checks many boxes typical of the genre. We have holiday shenanigans—most notably, the spirited confrontations between Harper and her sister Sloane (played by Alison Brie). There’s also family tension, including a forced outing scene that can be quite triggering. Watching the film invites you to snuggle up with a warm drink and a cozy blanket. And let’s be real: Kristen Stewart is undeniably attractive. I would love to see her paired with Aubrey Plaza in a stylish lesbian rom-com. Dan Levy continues to be a delight, while Mary Steenburgen and Victor Garber shine as Harper’s traditional parents. This film will definitely find a place in my holiday movie lineup.
At its heart, Happiest Season explores the challenges of coming out. The story revolves around Abby and Harper, portrayed by Kristen Stewart and Mackenzie Davis. The opening credits showcase the evolution of their relationship, leading us into the holiday festivities. Caught up in the spirit of the season, Harper invites Abby to spend Christmas with her family, not anticipating that she would accept.
However, Harper finds herself in a precarious situation. Despite assuring Abby that she is out, she has not yet told her parents about her sexuality or her long-term relationship. To complicate matters, she introduces Abby as just her roommate who has nowhere to go for the holidays. Unfortunately, they mistakenly believe Abby is straight too. While this setup could lead to some classic rom-com moments, those opportunities are not fully explored.
Many queer viewers have taken issue with Happiest Season, citing its triggering themes. It’s not just that Harper is in the closet; it’s how she manages that situation.
Throughout the film, Harper treats Abby poorly. Despite Abby’s love for her, she endures mistreatment, which is deeply unfair. Although Harper brings Abby into her world, she frequently dismisses her. If they were simply friends, Harper would still be a bad friend, but the pain is amplified by their romantic connection. It’s tough to cheer for Harper after she repeatedly abandons Abby during key moments.
One of the most difficult scenes to watch occurs when Abby joins Harper for a night out with her high school friends. Feeling neglected, Abby decides to leave. Instead of bidding her farewell, Harper stays out for hours, concluding the night with her ex-boyfriend. When Abby questions her behavior, Harper lashes out, overwhelmed by her own poor decisions and unfairly suggesting they need a “break.”
Abby finds comfort in Riley (Aubrey Plaza), Harper’s ex-girlfriend, who understands the struggle of hiding one’s sexuality. Offering empathy and kindness, Riley provides a glimmer of hope for Abby. A standout moment occurs when they share drinks at a drag show, bringing some much-needed levity to the narrative. Many viewers secretly wished for Abby and Riley to end up together, as Riley offers everything Abby deserves, and let’s face it, Aubrey Plaza in a tailored suit is captivating.
Dan Levy plays Abby’s friend John, who serves as both comic relief and a source of wisdom. He rises to the occasion when Abby needs support, even pretending to be her ex-boyfriend to help her out of a tight spot. When Harper betrays Abby by denying her sexuality, John reassures her, emphasizing that everyone’s journey to coming out is unique. This message is one of the film’s key takeaways.
While Happiest Season has its flaws, it represents just one narrative. Coming out stories can resonate endlessly, as every journey is distinct. The challenge lies in the scarcity of films centered on queer women, particularly lesbians, which leads to heightened expectations for any single film. If it doesn’t meet everyone’s hopes, it may be dismissed as unsatisfactory. I look forward to a future where we have a multitude of stories, allowing each film to stand on its own merits. Overall, Happiest Season is an enjoyable watch, albeit not without its imperfections.
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Summary
In summary, Happiest Season attempts to explore the complexities of queer relationships and the challenges of coming out, featuring a cast of relatable characters. While it delivers some enjoyable moments, it also falls short in several areas that leave some viewers dissatisfied. Nonetheless, it’s a significant step forward for representation and provides a holiday film that many can enjoy.