Ranking of Netflix holiday movies from worst to best this year

Netflix has firmly positioned itself as a contender against Hallmark and Lifetime in the holiday movie arena. This year, the streaming giant released four new Christmas-themed films, ranging from quirky to genuinely entertaining. Among them, "Jingle Bell Heist" clearly stands out as the top pick.

Back in 2017, Netflix's "A Christmas Prince" became a viral sensation during the holiday season. Eight years later, the platform continues to chase that festive magic. The four new films released this year are: "My Secret Santa," "A Merry Little Ex-Mas," "Champagne Problems," and "Jingle Bell Heist." Here's how they stack up from worst to best.

4. "My Secret Santa"

This film, starring Alexandra Breckenridge as Taylor Jacobsena single mom and former teen rock starhas been described by viewers as a reverse 'Mrs. Doubtfire.' Taylor takes a job at a ski resort, disguising herself as the resident Santa Claus, to afford her daughter's expensive snowboarding school. Along the way, she meets Matthew (Ryan Eggold), the resort owner's son, leading to a predictable romantic storyline. Meanwhile, Tia Mowry's Natasha is a highly competent character who deserves better treatment than the plot affords her. Overall, the film suffers from weak chemistry between the leads, bizarre plot choices, and a sense of being backward-written, making it the least enjoyable of the bunch.

3. "A Merry Little Ex-Mas"

Alicia Silverstone stars as Kate, an architect turned stay-at-home mom, navigating a recent separation from her husband, Everett (Oliver Hudson). The movie is filled with odd quirks, like the town calling Kate's home the "Mothership," and a British boyfriend who behaves as though hes in a fantasy world. Pierson Fods portrayal of Kates new boyfriend, Chet, and Jameela Jamil as Everett's girlfriend, bring comedic relief. Despite the fun moments, the central romance is underdeveloped, leaving the story less satisfying than it could have been.

2. "Champagne Problems"

Set in Paris during the Christmas season, this film follows Sydney (Minka Kelly), a dedicated professional sent to pitch a Champagne brand acquisition. During her trip, she meets Henri (Tom Wozniczka), the son of the business owner, sparking a charming romance. The movie features whimsical side characters and the Parisian setting adds a romantic allure. The leads share strong chemistry, and the film delivers a delightful holiday experience, making it the runner-up on the list.

1. "Jingle Bell Heist"

Without question, "Jingle Bell Heist" is the standout. Olivia Holt plays Sophie, an American in London whose mother needs affordable cancer treatment. Sophie is also a talented pickpocket trained by her magician grandfather. Connor Swindells plays Nick, a computer expert recently released from jail. Together, they plan a department store heist on Christmas Eve, leading to unexpected twists and turns. The movies clever writing, suspenseful direction, and vibrant score give it a distinctive edge. While the romantic connection between the leads is minimal, the films overall creativity and entertainment value make it the best of Netflix's holiday offerings this year.

Author: Maya Henderson