The weather is getting colder and Hallmark movie season is just around the corner. Netflix was one of the first in line this year with the release of a new holiday movie titled “Hot Frosty,” released on Nov. 13.
The film is as cheesy as any Christmas movie can be. It falls right in line with the Hallmark quality of predictable plots set in a small town where the magic of Christmas and miracles can make anyone fall in love. Nonetheless, it was a charming film.
The film follows Kathy, played by Lacey Chabert, the widowed owner of Kathy’s Kafe, located in the heart of her hometown, Hope Springs.
Her husband Paul has died of cancer, and she struggles with loving and taking care of herself while coping with her grief. Her house is in disrepair, with a leak in the roof, broken stairs, and a broken thermostat that leaves her house freezing.
The town of Hope Springs is a tight-knit community filled with people who support one another.
Mel, an older woman who owns a clothing store with her husband Theo, gives Kathy a red scarf. Mel wore the red scarf one night when she decided to step out of her comfort zone in hopes of meeting someone. She eventually met Theo and she wants Kathy to do the same.
Later that night, Kathy walks among the sculptures the townspeople built for a snowman-building competition. She stops in front of the one that looks like a chiseled man before placing the scarf around his neck and walking away.
The snowman then comes to life and names himself Jack. He begins to live with Kathy and dedicates his time to helping people around town while experiencing life as a human being.
Kathy learns to open her heart and to love again. Her progression throughout the film was aided by Jack’s kindness and the town’s support. Jack learns about being a human, most notably how to help others in need.
He spends his time repairing Kathy’s home, installing one of the neighbor’s new lights, and becomes the local middle school’s maintenance man, helping set up the winter school dance.
Jack’s time as a human helps him learn about relationships. He comes to understand the different types of love that exist and how to avoid rushing a connection.
The film represents themes of navigating friendships, relationships, and overall dynamics within a close community.
The film was also comedic, aided by the appearances of Sheriff Nate, played by Craig Robinson, and Deputy Sheriff Ed, played by Joe Lo Truglio.
The actors also play a dynamic duo in “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” adding to the layers of comedy their characters provide. This added an extra spark to the holiday magic; the story was already casting for its audience.
The movie was sweet, charming, and funny. Although strange, the story was executed well. It had a satisfying ending; one that leaves viewers smiling and embracing the spirit of the holidays.
