Opened: November 5, 2021

Directed by: Hernán Jiménez

Starring: Nina Dobrev, Jimmy O. Yang, Darren Barnet, Harry Shum Jr., Althea Kaye, James Saito, Rebecca Staab, Matty Finochio, Heather McMahan, Mikaela Hoover & Sean Depner

Everybody knows about catfishing on dating apps, so basing a Christmas rom-com off the awkwardness of it and the difference between superficial and emotional love was bound to come.

Natalie Bauer (Nina Dobrev) writes a column in West Hollywood about her date disasters but hits it off with Josh Lin, who lives in Lake Placid. She surprises him for Christmas and is shocked when Tag (Darren Barnett) is not Josh and Josh (Jimmy O. Yang) is someone else entirely.

Unsurprisingly, the film is corny so if you’re looking for substance, this is not the film to watch. However, Dobrev and Yang’s chemistry will suck you in as Josh tries to help Natalie get with Tag.

The message of connection not style in a partner is smart, even if it’s not presented well.

Final say: A little more hard than love. ★★★☆☆