Temple of Geek has launched a new review series, Under Review, where TV shows and movies are rated based on the three C’s: Characters, Chemistry, and Cinematography. The following segment takes a deep dive into the festive, the quirky, and the occasionally predictable world of holiday cinema. In this inaugural retrospective, the series evaluates five distinct Christmas titles, ranking them not against the Academy Awards, but within the cozy, cocoa-filled parameters of the Christmas genre itself.

From heist-driven dramas to Parisian romances, here is how the lineup fared.

1. Jingle Bell Heist (2025)

Starring: Olivia Holt (Sophia) and Connor Swindells (Nick)

The Verdict: A cinematic breath of fresh air.

Jingle Bell Heist immediately distances itself from the “bright white, commercial” lighting that plagues many modern holiday films. Instead, it offers an immersive, cinematic aesthetic that mirrors its grounded subject matter. The film explores the reality of being in your 20s, balancing multiple jobs and family obligations, which Olivia Holt portrays with careful nuance.

While the soundtrack occasionally overpowers the dialogue in early scenes and the leads lack romantic sparks, their chemistry as partners-in-crime is undeniable. Connor Swindells’ performance as a nervous but endearing lead provides a perfect foil to Holt’s Sophia.

• Highlight: A refreshing subversion of tropes where a villain turned ally (Cynthia Sterling) actually notices the protagonists’ earpiece.
• Rating: 8.3/10

2. My Secret Santa (2025)

Starring: Alexandra Breckenridge (Taylor) and Ryan Eggold (Matthew)

The Verdict: High-energy comedy with a touch of the absurd.

This film centers on Taylor, who disguises herself as a male Santa (under the “genius” alias Hugh Mann) to secure a job at Sun Peaks Resort. The film draws favorable comparisons to Chad Powers for its disguise-based humor and Hannah Montana for its frantic costume changes.

However, the film leans heavily into absurdist territory. The “adults” in the film often behave more like children than the actual children, screaming for Santa with an intensity that borders on the surreal. Despite the lack of logical background checks, the “hot chocolate date” callbacks and beautiful Canadian scenery make it a cozy, if chaotic, watch.

• Highlight: The “Hugh Mann” reveal and the stunning British Columbia backdrop.
• Rating: 7.5/10

3. A Very Jonas Christmas (2025)

Starring: The Jonas Brothers

The Verdict: A high-production-value musical treat.

The Jonas Brothers bring a high-octane energy to the screen, blending celebrity cameos (including a fan-girling Will Ferrell) with impressively integrated musical numbers. The production design is noted for its “levelled up” cinematography and brilliant use of diegetic sound, such as a train ticket machine transitioning into a song rhythm.

The film strikes a balance between High School Musical-esque choreography and self-deprecating humor, frequently “dunking” on Kevin Jonas. While one of the first songs introduced (“Best Night”) may divide audiences, the inclusion of the brothers’ real-life families adds a layer of authenticity that fans will adore.

• Highlight: The “Home Alone: The Musical” sequence between Nick Jonas and Ethan the EGOT.
• Rating: 8.0/10

4. EXmas (2023)

Starring: Leighton Meester (Ali) and Robbie Amell (Graham)

The Verdict: Realistic production design meets a stressful plot.

EXmas is a standout for its attention to detail. The sets feel “lived-in”, from half-used sauce bottles in the fridge to missing eggs in the carton, rather than polished soundstages. Leighton Meester continues her strong run of performances, showcasing impeccable comedic timing.

However, the central premise, a family inviting a son’s ex-girlfriend to Christmas because the son (Graham) has a work deadline, creates a level of secondhand stress that may detract from the holiday cheer. While the ending features a humorous full-circle callback, the lack of romantic chemistry between the leads keeps this film at the bottom of the list.

• Highlight: Leighton Meester’s performance and the “lived-in” set design.
• Rating: 6.5/10

5. Champagne Problems (2025)

Starring: Minka Kelly (Sydney) and Tom Wozniczka (Henri)

The Verdict: The “Gem” of the season.

Taking inspiration from the Before Sunrise trilogy, Champagne Problems follows a “One Day in Paris” format that captures lightning in a bottle. Minka Kelly and Tom Wozniczka (a “French Harry Styles” type) possess explosive chemistry that was missing from other entries in this marathon.

While the film falls victim to the “secret heir” trope, a twist also utilized in Jingle Bell Heist and My Secret Santa, the quality of the writing elevates it. With poetic dialogue about love and a gorgeous bookstore setting, it stands as a peak example of what a holiday romance can be.

• Highlight: The “French Harry Styles” charisma and the Before Sunrise vibes.
• Rating: 8.5/10