Single “25th”
The Hallmark Channel’s production revolves around a woman named Nell, who unexpectedly faces Christmas alone. Dealing with feelings of loneliness, she’s already down about being single and missing her family. However, her grumpy yet charming next-door neighbor, someone she typically avoids, starts joining her solitary holiday adventures, and they gradually discover they make a great pair.
Key points
Lindsay Fonseca takes on the role of Nell Duke, a single woman bubbling with excitement for Christmas. She eagerly anticipates the arrival of her family from Ohio to Celebrate in her Chicago apartment—until a sudden emergency leads to last-minute cancellations. Next door lives Cooper (Daniel Lissing), a hedge fund analyst following a strict keto diet. Their initial exchanges are filled with awkward small talk, but when Nell finds herself locked out of her apartment, Cooper comes to the rescue. During their interaction, he encourages her to make the best of her time alone in Chicago, suggesting she follow through with her holiday plans. While Nell feels the weight of her loneliness, Cooper’s support inspires her to embrace the idea of spending Christmas solo.
As Cooper is pulled back home due to a mix-up with a work event, he inadvertently gets swept into Nell’s holiday activities, such as decorating and baking cookies—none of which are his usual forte. Yet, driven by intrigue, he participates in her festive plans. Over time, the characters strip away their facades, and while Nell frequently bemoans her single status, they both begin to reveal their vulnerabilities, leading to an unexpected attraction.
Which movie does it remind you of?
In one moment, Cooper draws a comparison between Nell and Elizabeth Bennet from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Although the film isn’t a direct take on the classic, it echoes similar themes, particularly with Cooper presenting as initially misunderstood, much like Mr. Darcy.
Featured performance
Victor Andres Torres Turgeon plays Cooper’s unbearable coworker Thomas, showcasing his talent for embodying a truly difficult character. His eventual character growth is one of the film’s rewarding aspects.
Memorable dialogue
Nell asserts, “I’m going to celebrate my dream vacation, and I’m going to enjoy it alone! I’m going to be single on the 25th, and I’m going to love it,” marking a pivotal moment in her journey to step outside her comfort zone.
Holiday traditions
Nell has an extensive list of holiday traditions, from baking cookies to capturing moments for Christmas cards, all of which she feels are essential as the festive season approaches.
Does the title have any meaning?
Indeed, the movie focuses on Nell learning to embrace her solitude during Christmas.
Our view
I have mixed feelings about Single on the 25th. Fonseca and Lissing are endearing leads, and their transformation from awkward neighbors to a couple unfolds naturally throughout the film. They gradually reveal their true selves, often quirky and authentic. Lissing noticeably shifts from a classic yuppie to a genuinely appealing guy, as Nell draws out his best attributes.
On the other hand, Nell’s narrative is slightly different. It’s rare to see a Hallmark movie that dives deep into the experience of a heartbroken single woman. The film tries to empower her, but it feels a bit contradictory. She joins a support group, but her friends’ comments about being alone at Christmas amplify her sense of discomfort. Although Cooper steps in to help Nell find peace in her single status, she ends up telling another lonely woman, “I had to learn that loneliness isn’t a problem to be solved.”
Our call
Let’s stream! At its core, this film carries a beautiful message of self-acceptance. While it might initially seem frustrating to see so much focus on giving single people the green light to embrace their status, many might appreciate that reminder. Ultimately, the charming and unique romance between Fonseca and Lissing makes this film worth watching.
