Holidate

In the heart of bustling Los Angeles, two disenchanted singles—Emma, a driven magazine editor, and Jack, a charming but aimless artist—find their paths crossing one holiday season in an unexpectedly liberating arrangement they dub “Holidate.” With the pressures of family gatherings and relentless matchmaking from friends, they impulsively agree to become each other’s platonic date for all holiday events over the course of a year. What starts as a pragmatic solution to holiday loneliness quickly spirals into a hilarious yet heartfelt journey that forces Emma and Jack to confront their own emotions.

Emma, who is constantly chasing the next big promotion, feels the weight of expectations from her overbearing mother, who is determined to see her wed before the next family Christmas. Jack, on the other hand, has been meandering through life without direction, finding solace in his art but struggling to make ends meet. Together, they form an unlikely duo as they navigate a year of joyous celebrations, from quirky Halloween parties to extravagant New Year’s bashes, sharing laughter, misadventures, and the occasional awkward moment.

As the holidays roll through, their connection deepens beyond the casual agreement. They find themselves bonded over awkward family dinners, playful pranks with friends, and late-night conversations that stretch into the early hours of the morning. Alongside the whimsical escapades, both must confront their pasts—Emma’s fear of vulnerability and Jack’s reluctance to commit. Each holiday serves as a milestone, revealing layers of their personalities, dreams, and the scars that hold them back.

With beautifully crafted subplots featuring colorful side characters, such as Emma’s well-meaning but inept best friend and Jack’s eccentric bohemian roommate, “Holidate” explores themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery. Through the laughter and chaos, Emma and Jack must decide if their “Holidate” agreement was just a seasonal fling or the beginning of something much more meaningful. As the final holiday of the year approaches, they confront their true feelings and the question of whether to keep their hearts open or return to their old ways. In this romantic comedy, every holiday has the potential to be the best one yet—if they dare to take that leap together.