“Happiest Season” is a romantic comedy about a lesbian couple, Abby and Harper, who have been dating long enough for Abby to want to propose. However, a wrench gets thrown in her plan when she learns that Harper isn’t even out to her parents yet. The film, directed by Clea DuVall, stars Kristen Stewart, Mackenzie Davis, Alison Brie, Aubrey Plaza, Dan Levy, and Mary Holland. Holland also co-wrote the script with DuVall.
As the opening credits roll, the audience gain insight on the couple’s relationship, showing different milestones in a fun and creative way. There’s classic Christmas card-themed artwork that shows pictures of them throughout their relationship with dates alongside them. Once the story begins, “Happiest Season” introduces us to the happy couple as the Christmas countdown begins and Abby is invited to spend the holidays with Harper’s family, despite how much she despises Christmas.
Convinced that this Christmas could be different, Abby plans to propose to Harper. However, Harper drops the bomb: she still isn’t out to her parents. Reluctantly, Abby agrees to go on with the façade that they are just friends as Harper reassures her that she’ll come out once the holidays are over.
Dan Levy, Kristen Stewart, and McKenzie Davis in a scene from “Happiest Season.” Photo: Sony Pictures Entertainment, 2020.
The couple embark on a charade, hiding their relationship during the short trip with plenty of obstacles brought out. These include past relationships, Harper’s parents’ level of conservatism, and sides of Harper that Abby had never seen before. Just when one thinks things couldn’t get worse, they actually do. Abby begins to realize that maybe Harper isn’t who she thought she was.
Supporting Characters Give “Happiest Season” Added Depth
Throughout “Happiest Season,” we see so many great characters and performances that contribute to the story as a whole. John, portrayed by Dan Levy, is Abby’s sassy gay best friend who, while Abby is away, takes care of her pets. Throughout her trip, she calls him a few times for advice and to check in on her beloved animals. John, in return, gives the flow of the story comic relief both visually and in delivery. He also plays a very important role in the film’s climax; which is actually a very memorable and relatable scene for many who struggle with understanding how hard it is for people to come out of the closet.
The audience along with Abby see sides of Harper that are new, and Harper’s competitive relationships with her sisters—as well as their parents clearly playing favorites—more than do their share in bringing those sides front and center. Alison Brie portrays Harper’s bitter eldest sister, Sloane, a married mother of twins, and Harper’s biggest threat when it comes to her parents. Their youngest sister Jane, portrayed by Mary Holland, is the one often looked over and forgotten. While she does her best to stay positive, Jane finally reaches her breaking point in the film’s climax. Both have their own respective journeys as well throughout the film as things unfold.
Aubrey Plaza and Kristen Stewart in a scene from “Happiest Season.” Photo: Sony Pictures Entertainment, 2020.
A Ghost of Girlfriend’s Past?
Though it’s natural for the audience to root for the main character, Abby; the real diamond in the rough isn’t the main character, it’s Harper’s ex-girlfriend, Riley. Portrayed by Aubrey Plaza, Riley is another ghost of Harper’s past. She may not be in on the film for too much; but Plaza does enough to make a mark and steal every scene she’s present in. Her performance is fantastic and you can’t help but notice that Riley and Abby’s chemistry is actually pretty undeniable. In fact, it lightens the stressful situation that Abby is in during her stay. These scenes made the stay worth watching and gave the audience hope for Abby.
As the climax of the film finally unravels, the characters uncover secrets and the truths involved therein. These, in turn, take them on an emotional roller coaster ride. As a viewer, you’re unsure how it will end; but the last 25 minutes definitely displays the different levels of difficulty people deal with when coming out. It shows that everyone has their own journey when it comes to that point in their lives to finally come out of the closet.
Finally, the conversations and emotions displayed on the screen definitely shows insight to those who don’t understand what it’s like. more importantly, “Happiest Season” gives people who have been through it or haven’t yet reached that point in their own journey something to relate to. Though the ending wasn’t entirely satisfying because of Riley’s story arc, the concept of the film and the buildup made up for it entirely.
*”Happiest Season” is currently available to stream on Hulu via subscription.
