‘TIS THE SEASON FOR SETUPS
Romantic set-ups abound in this family-centered Christmas comedy.
Should You Watch It?
Yes, this holiday romance is entertaining and heartwarming, putting family relationships at the center. While it offers plenty of romantic moments for the lead couple, Lexi and Ridge, and their parents, the story also emphasizes the importance of parent-child relationships.
Lexi and Ridge find new ways to connect with their respective parents, while Lexi learns to be more present and enjoy the time she shares with her daughter.
The movie has an engaging story, plenty of lighthearted moments, and a natural, believable progression in Lexi and Ridge’s relationship. The family dynamics also feel relatable, adding emotional depth beyond the central romance.
One scene shows a character drinking alcohol, but not to excess. Otherwise, the movie contains no objectionable content, making it a family-friendly holiday romance that reminds viewers that the strongest relationships grow when we make time for the people who matter most.
The Story
NO SPOILERS — WE KEEP THE SURPRISESWhen type-A Lexi lands a Christmas party-planning job at a ski resort, she brings her free-spirited mother and daughter along for a family holiday. Complications arise when she clashes with the resort owner’s son, Ridge, but they put their differences aside when they notice sparks flying between their parents. The pair decides to set them up, but as they're thrown together, Lexi and Ridge might end up in love, too.
Is It Any Good?
Four stars for this entertaining holiday romance that balances romantic sparks with meaningful family relationships. The story gives equal attention to parent-child connections, adding depth to the characters and their motivations. Along the way, holiday-themed hijinks and lighthearted moments keep the story moving and bring laughs.
Lead actors Amanda Schull and Victor Webster share great chemistry, making their characters’ growing relationship enjoyable to watch. Barbara Niven and John B. Lowe also shine as the scheming parents, whose matchmaking efforts create plenty of amusing complications.
Beneath the romantic comedy, the movie highlights the importance of reconnecting with loved ones and making time for family. With engaging performances, holiday humor, and a heartfelt message, this Christmas romance stands as an enjoyable pick for fans of the genre.
The Worldview
A light moral worldview runs through this story, celebrating family and the gift of simply being present with the people you love. Every main character shares a close bond with a parent, and the story rewards the hard work they put into strengthening those relationships.
Christmas is celebrated through festive traditions such as trees, decorations, and familiar secular holiday songs. However, there’s no explicit Christian content or reference to the birth of Jesus Christ.
The story’s main moral flaw is a deception. Lexi’s mother, June, and Ridge’s father, Dan, hide how long they’ve really known each other and the true nature of their relationship. The lie isn’t excused, leaving Lexi frustrated and feeling deceived. In the end, though, grace wins out over resentment when Lexi forgives her mother.
Truth and forgiveness, not secrecy, are what bring the family back together. One scene includes alcohol, though no one drinks to excess. Overall, this is a wholesome, family-friendly movie acceptable for all ages.
The Content Guide
The specifics — spoilers included by nature — so you can judge for your own family.
Content Summary
Dominant Worldview and Other Worldview Content/Elements
A light moral worldview, promoting strong family relationships, especially between parents and children. There are some light Christian elements, such as the celebration of Christmas, but these are secular celebrations of the holiday, ex. Christmas trees, Christmas songs (non-religious), and other holiday decorations
Foul Language
No foul language;
Violence
No violence;
Sex
Two couples kiss;
Nudity
No nudity;
Alcohol Use
One scene shows a character drinking alcohol, but not to excess;
Smoking and/or Drug Use and Abuse
No smoking or drug abuse; and,
Miscellaneous Immorality
The main characters' parents are revealed to have known each other for longer than they initially said, and witheld that they have been in a relationship, but apologize for the deception.
Talk About It
Questions for the drive home, the dinner table, or the youth group.
Lexi is very anxious, and tries to hold onto control instead of letting loose and enjoying life. Philippians tell us to release our anxieties; what is the difference between being responsible and being consumed by worry? Philippians 4:6-7
Lexi learns to be more present and enjoy life’s little moments. In Matthew, why do you think Jesus directs us not to worry about tomorrow? How does that change how you view your present? Matthew 6:34
Ridge is ready to accept the responsibility of taking over the ski resort by the end of the movie. What does it mean when the Bible tells us to “work heartily?” Colossians 3:23
The Final Word
’TIS THE SEASON FOR SETUPS is a fun, heartwarming Christmas romance with a clear message: family is worth showing up for. Light alcohol use and some mild deception call for minor caution, but the story ultimately rewards honesty and forgiveness over secrecy and resentment. The result is a holiday movie suitable for all ages, echoing Colossians 3:13: “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone.”
