Okay fam if you were disappointed with Happiest Season because it just... straight up was depressing for 95% of the movie then let's talk 2 of the other queer Christmas films that just came out conveniently within a day of each other.
Without spoilers...
If you're looking for classic Christmas fun and hijinks - the corny type that is just feel good -, look no further than The Christmas Setup. Featuring the lovely Fran Drescher and with the two main leads being a IRL married couple, think flirty Christmas activities, lots of subtle (or not so subtle) references to balls and bottoms and wood, a super sweet and supportive best friend who manages to hold her own not just as a side character, and tons of adorable and hilarious disaster gay energy. A solid 95% fluff with just a smattering of angst. 10/10 cannot recommend enough if you just want something warm and cozy and that hits in all the right places.
If you're looking for a Christmas story that brings some lovely Christmas magic but also hits on how family, friends, and the holidays can also carry some hurt and pain, then watch Dashing in December. It has lots of its own Hallmark vibes (I'd say more Hallmark Movies and Mysteries or Hallmark Drama rather than classic Hallmark), including "big city guy returns home for the holidays" plot, but it has its own heart. All the characters are navigating carrying their own baggage, and are trying to figure out what it means to be happy. The two love interests also have some really lovely but palpably heart-wrenching moments that show how even as an adult, you can still be scared and hurts from your past can have residual impact. This has more melancholy moments but it has a happy ending and still offers the warm and fuzzies.
