Netflix’s Our Little Secret, starring Lindsay Lohan, is the latest Christmas movie from the streaming giant. Although the story is quite predictable, the film perfectly captures what the holiday season is all about. The film chronicles the journey of Avery (played by Lohan) and Logan (played by Ian Harding) who have been connected since childhood. They started as friends and eventually became a couple. One day, Avery accepts an opportunity to work in London, prompting Logan to ask the big question at her farewell party. But things turn upside down for him when Avery breaks up with him due to the pressure of getting married. The story moves 10 years forward when they meet again and are dating other people now. But life had other plans for them, and their lives intertwined again, revealing unresolved emotions. What unfolds in the film is a series of comedic mishaps, heartfelt confessions, and poignant moments as the two navigate the awkwardness of their shared history while trying to fit into the Morgan family’s eccentric dynamics.
As said earlier, the story is not groundbreaking and doesn’t change the genre in any way. But how it has been executed is really brilliant. Director Stephen Herek has done a great job of telling the story with a sense of sincerity and festive cheer that makes it easy for viewers to get invested in the characters and their lives. Hailey DeDominicis, who wrote the script, made it clear that she wanted to make this movie light-hearted and didn’t want to make it complex. That’s one of the main reasons why themes such as guilt, nostalgia, and longing are explored so beautifully in this movie, making it a really enjoyable experience and not too overly dramatic. The screenplay manages to balance humor with heartfelt moments, providing viewers with an experience that is entertaining and deeply relatable.
Other aspects that make this film such an entertaining watch are its visuals and music. The setting of a gorgeous-looking small town, laced with twinkling lights and snow-covered streets, creates an enchanting background that immerses audiences in the spirit of the holiday season. The cinematography by Graham Robbins is marvelous, and he didn’t leave any chance to capture the magic of Christmas without compromising on the cinematic aesthetic, blending warm tones and intricate details that evoke nostalgia and wonder, making every frame a visual delight. Also, the film’s soundtrack deserves a mention here. With a mix of classic holiday tunes and original compositions, the music perfectly complements the film’s tone, adding an extra layer of emotion to some of the film’s important moments. The song, Happiest Christmas Tree, sung by Aliana Lohan is a standout. The song is really good, and her voice is mesmerizing.
As far as performances are concerned, Lindsay Lohan is undoubtedly the highlight of Our Little Secret. She commands attention, and her portrayal of being vulnerable yet strong makes her character relatable and adorable. She has always been a good actor and was known for her comedic timing, and this film gives her a chance to show that aspect in an extraordinary way. Her excellent timing is most evident in two scenes- one that involves Avery’s gummy mishap and her hilariously improvised reading at Christmas mass. And Lohan seamlessly shifts between humor and heartfelt emotion. Ian Harding, who plays Logan, delivers a strong performance as well. His chemistry with Lohan is a strong point of the movie, enhancing the film’s viewing experience.
Despite it being a thoroughly enjoyable film, Our Little Secret is not without its flaws. The plot, while appealing, may feel predictable to some viewers. Moreover, certain sub-plots feel underdeveloped. The pacing is also a minor issue here because some sequences are stretched unnecessarily. However, these minor shortcomings don’t detract from the overall experience or make the film boring.
Our Little Secret is one of the best Christmas movies on Netflix and features a splendid performance by Lindsay Lohan. So, take your favorite coffee mug, pour some hot chocolate, and enjoy the festivities.
Our Little Secret is now streaming on Netflix.
Learn more about the movie and how to watch it on the Netflix site for the title.