Plot Overview

The story centers on Avery, who visits her boyfriend Cameron’s family for Christmas only to discover her ex-boyfriend, Logan, is part of the same gathering. The awkward reunion spirals into a web of comedic misunderstandings as Avery and Logan pretend they’ve just met, hiding their romantic history from the family. This secretive premise sets up the film’s comedy and drama but falls short of being compelling.

Strengths

Lindsay Lohan and Kristin Chenoweth Shine

Lohan delivers a charming performance as Avery, bringing humor and warmth to a character that otherwise lacks depth. Her chemistry with Ian Harding’s Logan provides the film with its emotional core, even if their relationship is underdeveloped. Chenoweth steals the spotlight as Erica, the hilariously overbearing matriarch, injecting much-needed energy into several scenes.

Warm Holiday Atmosphere

The film excels in creating a festive ambiance. Cozy interiors, sparkling decorations, and holiday traditions provide an inviting backdrop. Director Stephen Herek effectively captures the quintessential Christmas aesthetic, making it a pleasant seasonal watch.

Moments of Absurd Humor

The absurdity of certain comedic sequences, such as a mix-up involving THC-laced treats and a chaotic vet visit, adds a layer of slapstick entertainment. These moments, while over-the-top, prevent the narrative from becoming monotonous.

Weaknesses

Predictability and Lack of Depth

Our Little Secret follows a familiar rom-com formula, leaving little room for surprises. While predictable plots can work in holiday films, the lack of innovative storytelling makes the experience feel uninspired. The characters, apart from Avery and Erica, lack distinctive qualities, making them forgettable.

Uneven Pacing

The film’s pacing is inconsistent, with a rushed setup and an overstuffed third act. The climactic family dinner, filled with reveals and misunderstandings, feels cluttered and detracts from the emotional payoff.

Missed Opportunities for Comedy

Although some comedic moments land well, others rely too heavily on convenience or forced scenarios. The film’s central “big secret”—Avery and Logan’s past relationship—feels minor and unworthy of the drama it generates, especially when compared to more engaging subplots.

Thematic Execution

At its heart, Our Little Secret explores themes of love, family, and second chances. However, these themes lack resonance due to the screenplay’s uneven focus. Side plots, such as Logan’s involvement in a family friend’s development project and Erica’s marital woes, dilute the film’s central narrative, leaving the themes underexplored.

Conclusion

While Our Little Secret has its charms, it ultimately falls short of delivering a memorable rom-com experience. Lindsay Lohan’s magnetic presence and Kristin Chenoweth’s scene-stealing comedic timing breathe life into an otherwise pedestrian script. The festive atmosphere, rich with holiday decorations and cozy family dynamics, makes it a visually appealing addition to seasonal viewing. However, the reliance on overused tropes and predictable story beats undermines the potential for genuine surprises or emotional depth. The central premise, built around a seemingly inconsequential secret, struggles to generate sufficient tension, leaving the narrative feeling stretched thin. Additionally, the ensemble cast, though talented, is not given enough material to leave a lasting impression, with some characters bordering on one-dimensional.

That said, the film may still appeal to audiences looking for a light, uncomplicated holiday flick to accompany their seasonal celebrations. The occasional absurdity, such as chaotic mishaps involving spiked edibles or a dog-related mix-up, provides moments of laughter, even if they rely heavily on slapstick humor. For viewers who enjoy familiar romantic comedy setups and can appreciate the warmth of holiday nostalgia, Our Little Secret offers a cozy, if flawed, escape. However, those seeking innovation or more substantial storytelling might find themselves disappointed. Ultimately, the film serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of holiday rom-coms while highlighting the challenges of balancing novelty with tradition​.

Rating: 6/10

The film’s warmth and occasional humor are enjoyable, but its lack of originality and depth limits its appeal​.