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Writing Around the Christmas Tree

Writing Around the Christmas Tree

Representation Score

3.1/10

Limited

2021

TV-PG

Director

Jake Helgren

Runtime

85 minutes

Average Rating

No ratings yet

New Showbiz Analysis

Writing Around the Christmas Tree is a conventional seasonal romantic comedy that follows established genre formulas. It prioritizes individual romantic fulfillment and the preservation of traditional customs over social critique. The film reinforces existing social norms through its narrative, offering a comforting experience centered on domestic stability and interpersonal connections within a singular demographic lens. Ultimately, the work lacks complexity in representing multiple aspects of diversity. It provides comfort through the affirmation of traditional archetypes and a streamlined perspective focused on holiday romance.

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Category Breakdown

Does Writing Around the Christmas Tree have LGBTQ+ representation?

Minimal

The film does not include any visible LGBTQ narratives or characters with diverse gender identities. The romantic tension revolves around a heterosexual relationship.

How does Writing Around the Christmas Tree portray gender?

Fair

Mikaela demonstrates professional success as a novelist, but her personal development is heavily influenced by romantic relationships. The male lead plays a key role in her growth.

How racially and ethnically diverse is Writing Around the Christmas Tree?

Limited

The cast is predominantly of one ethnicity. The story does not incorporate diverse cultural perspectives, favoring a traditional, localized setting.

How does Writing Around the Christmas Tree represent religion and culture?

Limited

The story centers on Western holiday traditions and seasonal celebrations. It emphasizes middle-class stability and traditional social structures.

Does Writing Around the Christmas Tree include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no representation of physical, sensory, or neurodivergent identities. The narrative focuses on able-bodied characters.

Present on Screen

  • Mikaela is portrayed as a successful romance novelist.
  • The film offers a comforting experience centered on seasonal customs and interpersonal connections.

Limited or Absent

  • The narrative lacks complexity in representing multiple aspects of diversity.
  • There is no representation of physical, sensory, or neurodivergent identities.
  • The film does not engage with or critique traditional gender hierarchies or heteronormativity.

Official Synopsis

Mikaela is a successful romance novelist who has had bad luck in love, visits a quaint bed and breakfast for a Christmas writer's retreat near a snowy lake town each year. Upon arriving, she meets dashing writer Levi, who soon convinces Mikaela that she shouldn't be writing about love, if she doesn't allow herself to get out and actually experience it.

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