A DANISH CHRISTMAS
A case of mistaken identity brings plenty of holiday cheer.
Should You Watch It?
Yes. This unique holiday romance highlights Danish traditions through a love story and an effort to save a family inn. Beautiful scenes of Copenhagen showcase the city’s architecture, while Marie shares interesting facts about Denmark, its history, and its seasonal customs.
Family takes center stage throughout the story. Marie dedicates herself to the inn and maintains close relationships with her mother and sister. The family also honors their late father by sharing fond memories of how he made the holidays special.
Christian elements add further meaning, including the celebration of Santa Lucia Day, which honors Saint Lucia of Syracuse. Ultimately, this heartfelt romance celebrates the family bonds and cherished traditions that make the holidays meaningful.
The Story
NO SPOILERS — WE KEEP THE SURPRISESMarie prepares for a relaxing Christmas at her family’s inn in Denmark. When Ryan, a travel writer, arrives, she determines to give him the best Danish Christmas ever and secure a great review of the struggling inn. There’s just one problem: Ryan isn’t a travel writer and has no clue why Marie takes such an interest in his vacation. As the pair enjoy Denmark’s Christmas traditions, sparks fly. When the truth comes out, will things fizzle?
Is It Any Good?
Four stars for this refreshing holiday romance that offers more than a love story. While Marie and Ryan’s growing relationship steals the show, the movie gives equal attention to Danish traditions and celebrations. Viewers will learn about Denmark’s customs and may even feel inspired to explore this culture further.
Lead actors Emilie Ullerup and Corey Sevier share believable chemistry, moving from strangers to friends to romantic partners in a way that feels natural. Beautiful shots of Copenhagen’s architecture also add visual appeal.
With genuine romance, rich cultural details, and a strong emphasis on family, this movie earns a spot on the holiday watchlist.
The Worldview
The movie has a strong moral worldview with clear Christian elements. At its heart, the story honors family the way Scripture does. Marie loves her mother and sister deeply, and the three women hold tight to fond memories of their late father.
When Marie turns down a promotion to stay at the family inn, she puts people ahead of career success, a choice that echoes Jesus’ call to love others above worldly gain.
The faith elements go beyond holiday decor, too. The family celebrates Christmas, the birth of Christ, and they honor Santa Lucia Day, a feast that remembers Saint Lucia of Syracuse. Lucia, an early Christian martyr, gave her wealth to the poor and died for her faith around A.D. 304. The Lucia Day tradition, with its candles in the winter darkness, points to Christ as the light of the world (John 8:12).
The Content Guide
The specifics — spoilers included by nature — so you can judge for your own family.
Dominant Worldview and Other Worldview Content/Elements
A moral worldview promoting strong family relationships and valuing those family connections. Christian elements, such as observing Christmas and the celebration of Santa Lucia Day, an event honoring the Saint Lucia of Syracuse
Foul Language
No foul language;
Violence
No violence;
Sex
A couple kiss;
Nudity
Upper male nudity and a female wears a one-piece bathing suit while they sit in a sauna;
Alcohol Use
A character tells another that drinking beer in the morning is part of Danish culture;
Smoking and/or Drug Use and Abuse
No smoking or drug abuse; and,
Miscellaneous Immorality
No other objectionable content.
Talk About It
Questions for the drive home, the dinner table, or the youth group.
Marie is committed to showing off the best Danish Christmas traditions to Ryan. How do your own Christmas traditions draw you closer to God during the holiday season? 2 Thessalonians 2:15
In one scene, characters are shown celebrating Santa Lucia, a Christian saint, in a traditional festival of light. How does Santa Lucia’s story mirror Jesus’ identity as the “Light of the World?” John 8:12
Marie decides to choose her family’s inn over a promotion at work. Have you ever felt God call you away from a professional achievement? What did you learn about surrender in that moment? Proverbs 16:3
The Final Word
A DANISH CHRISTMAS shines a bright light on family, faith, and tradition. Marie’s choice to put her loved ones ahead of her career offers a sweet picture of selfless love, and the Santa Lucia Day celebration points viewers to Christ, the true light of the world. A few mild moments call for some discernment with younger viewers, but families will find plenty to celebrate here. Grab some hot cocoa and enjoy this cozy reminder of what matters most at Christmas.
