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“Squid Game” fans are about to experience the Netflix hit series on a whole new level as"Squid Game: Unleashed” gets an upgrade!
“Squid Game: Unleashed”is the definitive video game inspired by the streaming platform’s most-watched series ever. Since its release last Dec. 17, it soared to the top of the charts and became the number one "Top Free Action Game" in 57 countries and the number one "Top Free Game" in 24 countries. The heart-pounding multiplayer battle
royale game allows players to take on deadly challenges and games inspired by classic childhood activities as seen in the series.
“Squid Game is Netflix’s most-watched series ever, and we want everyone around the world to be able to take part in its return by making 'Unleashed'available to everyone, which is a first for Netflix Games,” said Alain Tascan, President, Games at Netflix. “Squid Game: Unleashed is all about playing with (or against) your friends in the iconic games from the series like Glass Bridge and Red-Light Green Light, so we’re inviting everyone into the chaos this holiday season.”
Following the release of the series’ second season, the game creators are introducing new characters and games from the new episodes.
From Jan. 3, you can play the Mingle-inspired “Scary-go-round, Carousel Dodge, and Manic Mixer.” This new game was inspired by one of the most memorable new games in Season 2 where players had to race to find safe rooms before the timer ran out.
There’s also a game event called “Dalgona Mash-Up Collection Event”
where players can unlock three Mingle-inspired games and a Dalgona tin collection event starting with an exclusive Season 2 character reward: Geum-Ja (Player 149), until Jan. 9.
On the 9th, “Thanos’ Red Light Challenge”will start where you can use knives to eliminate other players in-game to collect points towards unlocking an exclusive Season 2 character: Thanos (Player 230).
By the end of the event on Jan. 16, a new character will also be available to play: Yong-Sik (Player 007), the debt-ridden son of Geum-Ja from Season 2.
Season 2 Characters | Photo from Netflix
The game is free to play regardless of your subscription status for a limited time. However, once the limited period ends, you’ll have to sign up to be a member. Netflix members have some serious perks as they can access the “Watch Along”feature that gives players in-game rewards for every episode they complete. The more you watch, the more rewards you can earn. So, if you binge the entire season, you will receive not only in-game cash, which can be used to purchase items or player skins, but a special “Binge Watcher” skin to show off to other players. Talk about bragging rights!
You can also get the chance to snag “Wild Tokens” which are chances to spin the in-game wheel for more prizes! Here’s a definitive list of rewards for each episode completed:
Reward 1: Get 15,000 Cash free.
Reward 2: Watch Episode 1 and earn 20 Wild Tokens.
Reward 3: Watch Episode 2 and earn 20,000 Cash.
Reward 4: Watch Episode 3 and earn 25 Wild Tokens.
Reward 5: Watch Episode 4 and earn 25,000 Cash.
Reward 6: Watch Episode 5 and earn 50 Wild Tokens.
Reward 7: Watch Episode 6 and earn 50,000 Cash.
Reward 8: Watch Episode 7 and earn a Binni Binge-Watcher Outfit.
Start playing today by downloading it here. Both seasons of “Squid Game” are now streaming on Netflix. Follow the game on Instagram and X (Formerly Twitter) for updates.
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K-Pop culture is more than just music. It’s an immersive experience that brings fans closer to their idols in unique and exciting ways.
From incredible high-energy concerts and massive conventions to intimate fan gatherings and showcases, each event offers a different vibe and purpose. But what sets one apart from the other? What makes a concert
different from a fan concert or a fan meeting from a fan signing?
This guide breaks down the key differences between these K-Pop events so you’ll know exactly what to expect at each one.
What is a Concert?
BTS | Photo from Facebook/@bangtan.official
Concerts
are musical events where an artist or a group performs a part (if not all) of their discography. K-Pop concerts, in particular, are known to last around three hours long with artists preparing a jam-packed setlist of song and dance stages plus ments
(speeches) in between. Some artists may also invite other idols for special collaboration stages. Out of all the K-Pop events, concerts are the most performance-heavy and focus more on the artists as musicians.
Most concerts are held indoors like in arenas, stadiums, and concert halls, but can also take place in outdoor venues such as open fields. Concert events also feature exclusive merchandise fans can get their hands on from t-shirts and photocards to posters and official light sticks.
So, what’s the difference between a concert and a music festival? Simple: music festivals feature a large lineup of artists, sometimes across multiple stages and genres. One example is the K-Pop Convention (KCON), the K-Pop fan and artist music festival held in major cities like Los Angeles, Tokyo, Paris, and Abu Dhabi. This annual event features a lineup of South Korean icons and brings them together onto one massive stage!
What is a Fan Meet?
Ahn Hyo Seop | Photo from Facebook/@benchtmofficial
As the name suggests, this K-Pop event is an opportunity for fans to “meet” their K-Pop idols; to get up close and personal with them. Fan Meets usually have a smaller venue with a limited number of attendees compared to concerts and are designed to create a more personal connection with the fans.
A typical K-Pop fan meet is divided into segments that involve games, question-and-answer sessions, and special performances. K-Pop groups are known to put on special stages like boy groups cross-dressing and dancing to girl group choreographies and K-Drama actors showcasing their dancing or singing skills. There are also instances where they invite fans on stage to play games or reenact iconic K-drama moments.
To enhance the experience, Fan Meets offer special fan benefits included in each ticket purchase. These benefits range from signed posters and exclusive photocards to “Hi-Bye” sessions and photo ops where fans can get the chance to shake hands with their idols and take commemorative photos with them.
The distribution of these exclusive benefits depends on the rules set by the promoter or the artists’ management. Each ticket pertains to a certain category and receives varying types or amounts of benefits. In short, the more you pay, the better the benefits. Some concerts offer similar benefits as well, but they are mostly limited to soundcheck sessions and exclusive signed merchandise. In addition to this, Fan Meets often feature brand partnerships
with each sponsor providing giveaways and coveted prizes for the games.
It’s also not unusual for artists to hold several Fan Meets in a year both virtually and in person. They can also be single or multi-day events depending on the demand from fans. Fan Meets are also not just for established K-Pop stars, but also rookie groups who wish to connect more with their fans, promote a forthcoming comeback, or celebrate their anniversary.
What is a Fan Concert?
UNIS | Photo by The Beat Asia
Fan concerts or “Fancons” combine the elements of a K-Pop concert and a fan meet, but one big difference is that it doesn’t have a full setlist compared to concerts. It also usually takes place in a smaller venue, making it more intimate like a fan meeting.
At a fancon, musicians or idol groups perform about seven to ten songs, which is fewer than at a full concert but more than at a fan meeting. While artists have ments in between stages at concerts, fan cons have full-on segments like interactive games, question-and-answer sessions, and special interactions with fans on stage in between performances. Fancons also provide similar benefits found in fan meets with the added extra of personal interactions.
Just take a look at K-Pop group UNIS
who held their first Philippine fan con in Manila and Cebu last Oct. 25 and 26, 2024 where they celebrated their anniversary with their Filipino fans with exciting games and raffle draws.
What is a Showcase?
ENHYPEN | Photo from website/kpopping.com
You often hear this word when a K-Pop artist is about to debut or drop a new album. Showcases are promotional events where artists perform new songs from an album. These are often hosted by an MC and are attended by the media and a limited number of fans. Showcases are also often aired on popular K-Pop music programs such as Inkigayo and M Countdown, especially for debuting idol groups.
Apart from electrifying stages, showcases include a question-and-answer session about the album, similar to what one would hear at a press conference. These are also shorter than concerts, and last about an hour or less, and are generally held where the artists are from.
So unlike concerts, fan meets, and fancons, K-Pop showcases aren’t part of a tour and can only be attended in South Korea. (No matter. What are flights for, right?)
What is a Fan Signing?
WINNER | Photo from X (Formerly Twitter)/@4_WINNER_CIRCLE
Fan signings are designed to promote an artist’s new album and are the most intimate and exclusive of all K-Pop events as they allow fans to come up to their idols and interact with them while they sign their albums. Conversations between fans and artists can take about two to five minutes per member if it’s an idol group, or longer for a solo artist. Literally, there will only be a desk between you and your bias. You can’t get any closer than that!
However, getting into a fan signing event is harder than it looks because tickets to these are not sold. To attend a fan sign, one must purchase the album being promoted. Sounds easy enough, right?
There are usually two ways to get selected: a random drawing of purchase receipts or a top spender system. For the latter, the fans who buy the most albums win and get the chance to attend. Hardcore K-Pop fans are known to purchase hundreds of copies to be able to get in, so it’s definitely a challenge!
Some Tips
If there’s one thing these K-Pop events have in common is that they require a great deal of planning as you would be spending hours if not the entire day at these events. For concerts, there are usually long queues involved considering the amount of attendees, so make sure to wear comfortable footwear. Also, expect tickets to be a challenge to acquire. We have a guide on securing them right here.
These events can last for hours, so make sure to stay hydrated and have agood mealbeforehand. Also, most of these events are held in the evenings and finish late in the night so it’s best to find a reliable way to get home and have your travel plans sorted out.
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Did a new show pop up on your Netflix watchlist? Or maybe there's a new Asian drama making its rounds on social media? Stop scrolling before you fall into the spoilers black hole and let us help you decide if it's worth watching.
From Hollywood sitcoms that tickle your funny bones and thrillers that keep you on the edge of your seats to romantic K-Dramas that make your heart skip a beat, The Beat Asia is taking a first look at the latest series releases for your viewing pleasure.
Warnings: Contains violence, profanity, and drug use
The long wait has finally come to an end. Three years after the debut of Squid Game – which has since become Netflix’s biggest hit and most-watched series – fans will finally get to see what happens to Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) after he steps off the plane on the last episode of Season 1.
For those who haven’t binged it yet, Squid Game Season 2 promises dangerous new games and a fresh roster of characters. Of course, we also get to hear back from recurring personalities, such as Gi-hun, the Front Man (Lee Byung-hun), the Recruiter (Gong Yoo), Hwang Jun-ho (Wi Ha-jun), the policeman and Front Man’s brother, and Jung-Bae (Lee Seo-hwan), Gi-hun’s friend who we first see in Season 1, Episode 1, as a fellow gambler.
Director and Writer Hwang Dong-hyuk, who never expected a Season 2 (much less Season 3) of the show, has meticulously crafted an intense storyline for the new installment. New characters reflect modern-day problems and circumstances such as crypto scams, sexual discrimination, and drug abuse. To portray these, Dong-hyuk (who’s never been shy to cast fresh talent) has pulled a diverse team of actors, including renowned rapper T.O.P, K-Pop star Jo Yuri, and former colleague Lee David.
REVIEW: Off the Heels Of A Mega-Hit
Squid Game 2 introduces viewers to new games | Instagram/Squid Game Netflix
A big challenge for Squid Game Season 2 is the fact that the show comes off the tails of a mega-hit, which we all know, is hard to top.
To add to that, Season 2 no longer has the same shock value that Season 1 had simply because fans are already familiar with the rules of the game. They know more about what to expect than they did in Season 1. The second season also comes with only 7 episodes, compared to the 9 episodes that its predecessor had, leaving fans with a cliffhanger.
Lastly, Season 2 was, in fact, conceptualized in less time than Season 1 was. Dong-hyuk, who shared that he first began writing Squid Game (Season 1) in 2009, had had to write Seasons 2 and 3 in less than a year due to demand.
That’s not to say that the series isn’t well-written. Details reveal that Dong-hyuk maintains his incredible meticulousness throughout the season, but if we had to make a choice, we would definitely say that Season 1 was a better watch than Season 2.
SPOILER ALERT! This section contains details from the premiere episode of “Squid Game Season 2.”
Nevertheless, the show comes with plenty of strengths, one of which was the first episode, which some might argue is the best of the season. It gives us a little insight into the backstory of the Recruiter; needless to say, Gong Yoo’s performance has been rightfully praised by critics online. It’s a strong start to the show and will definitely keep viewers clicking on the next episode.
Another strength of the second season is the Front Man, who keeps viewers in for a loop as he joins the games himself. His actions throughout the season are confusing; and one never really understands what he’s planning until the very last scene of the very last episode, keeping viewers on their toes about his motivations.
While the plotline for Season 2 is captivating and immersive in its own way, there were some instances when the show started to feel like a comedy (i.e. Thanos rapping to the other players).
New characters in Squid Game 2 | Netflix | Squid Game
Gi-hun’s hero complex also starts to feel generic; he definitely showed more complex character traits in the first season. The first time fans meet him, we see multiple aspects of Gi-hun; he is a good teammate yet a bad father, a good friend but a terrible son. This makes him relatable and human, someone we would want to cheer for. Yet in Season 2, he seems to be portrayed as a “savior” and nothing more; and while this kind of integrity is honorable, it also feels flat.
Of course, one thing to be expected from Squid Game is death. And while plenty of people die, scenes in the new season are much less gut-wrenching than in the first. The first season killed off pretty much every character people had an emotional connection with; while the second season sees more survivors and more annoying competitors.
Lastly, characters in the second season are not as well-developed as those in the first. In the first season, every character’s life story and motivations are masterfully portrayed. In season two, we don’t quite get to connect with the characters as much. For example, we never quite understand why Chae Kuk-hee’s character, Seon-nyeo, feels so connected to the spiritual world. We also meet Min-su (Lee David), who seems to be nothing more than a man with zero integrity and zero backstory.
Final Verdict: 3.5 out of 5 BEATS
Squid Game Season 3 coming 2025 | Instagram/Squid Game Netflix
Our final verdict is that while Season 2 falls a little short, it is still overall, a captivating watch. It’s definitely very easy to binge; if you’re someone who found it difficult to get through the gut-wrenching scenes in Season 1, you’ll be glad to know that Season 2 is much easier to get through simply because it’s a lot less so.
Season 2 also sets the stage for an exciting third season; personally, we're excited to see what happens with Jun-ho and the sea captain. Because Season 2 ended with such a cliffhanger, fans will be excited for the release of the third and final installment, which Dong-hyuk teases will be closer than we think.
Overall, we give Squid Game Season 2 three and a half beats, which is still pretty good — though of course, not as good as Season 1’s five full beat/star rating.
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2024 saw another iconic year for K-Drama fans. From heart-fluttering romances and jaw-dropping thrillers to binge-worthy soaps, Korean dramas once again proved they're the best in storytelling. Whether you're a longtime stan, a casual watcher, or someone just dipping your toes bit by bit into the K-Drama scene, this year's lineup was stellar; they had something for everyone.
So, grab your ramyeon, fried chicken, and somaek — here's our list of the best K-Dramas of 2024 that we think absolutely stole the show, in no particular order!
Love Next Door
Starring: Jung Hae-in, Jung So-min
Genre: Romantic Comedy
A woman living the perfect life abroad, employed by one of the best companies in the world and engaged to an international lawyer, abruptly returns home to South Korea and reboots her life. She reconnects with one of her childhood best friends, who turns out to be the top architect in Korea.
Why it's on our list: Seok-ryu's (Jung So-min) experiences of being burnt out while having the life everyone dreams of should be talked about more, seriously. Plus, we'll always tune into the childhood friends turned lovers trope.
The Atypical Family
Starring: Jang Ki-yong, Chun Woo-hee, Go Doo-shim, Claudia Kim
Genre: Fantasy Romance
A family with superpowers that are fading, and how they are affected by modern-day problems. Their fate soon changes when they come across a beautiful con artist who attracts the family member’s attention.
Why it's on our list: The premise is already as interesting as the title itself; a family losing their powers to modern-day issues. We don't get to see plots like this all the time, so it's worth the watch. Some parts of the first episode might irk you, but it gets better.
The Frog
Starring: Kim Yoon-seok, Yoon Kye-sang, Go Min-si, Lee Jung-eun
Genre: Mystery, Crime Thriller
Two old friends are managing a villa-turned-holiday rental in a secluded forest town. Their lives take a turn for the worse when a mysterious woman arrives with her son to spend a night, only to leave blood stains, an overpowering scent of bleach, and without her son the next day. The present connects to the past, where the life of a motel owner also turns awry when he unknowingly invites a serial killer to stay the night. A policewoman with an innate ability to solve crime returns to her old police station to solve the mystery surrounding the holiday rental.
Why it's on our list: Our top reason right off the bat? It's Go Min-si in her villain era. But seriously? It's the kind of drama that you should keep your eyes on at all times if you don't want to get confused at the time jumps. Some scenes will definitely have you on the edge of your seat. There were even moments wherein we found ourselves pausing to catch our breath.
Flex X Cop
Starring: Ahn Bo-hyun, Park Ji-hyun
Genre: Action, Comedy, Crime, Romance
An immature third-generation chaebol turned detective, and a veteran detective become unlikely partners.
Why it's on our list: We're used to seeing traditional detective shows where the villains have all the money and power at their grasp. But what if it's the law enforcement that has it and the villains are the ones practically scrounging all their resources just to get away? This one's a breath of fresh air from all that, plus some eye candy (Ahn Bo-hyun).
Queen of Tears
Starring: Kim Soo-hyun, Kim Ji-won, Park Sung-hoon, Kwak Dong-yeon, Lee Joo-bin
Genre: Romantic Comedy
A third-generation chaebol heiress and a son of farmers try to save their marriage of three years amidst different factors.
Why it's on our list: Angst? Kim Soo-hyun and Kim Ji-won power couple? Honestly, while this drama is a melting pot of all kinds of possible love plots in one, it's the main leads' chemistry and acting prowess that brought all the views to this drama. No spoilers, but prepare some tissues and maybe line up a feel-good drama right after.
Love in the Big City
Starring: Nam Yoon-su, Byun Jun-seo, Lee Soo-kyung, Oh Hyun-kyung, Kwon Hyuk, Na Hyun-woo, Jin Ho-eun, Kim Won-joong
Genre: Melodrama, Coming-of-age, Slice of Life
A story of a gay man and a heterosexual woman living together and navigating love and life in Seoul.
Why it's on our list: Surely, we've all heard about this drama because we've seen how some South Koreans reacted to it. Also, we've seen how the lead actor (Nam Yoon-su) reacted nonchalantly to it and shared how he prepared for this role. The drama is a commentary about how life and love go for young adults (queer or not) and is a genuine portrayal of growth. A must-watch for everyone, tbh.
Jeongnyeon: The Star Is Born
Starring: Kim Tae-ri, Shin Ye-eun, Ra Mi-ran, Jung Eun-chae, Kim Yoon-hye
Genre: Period Drama, Coming-of-Age, Musical
Set after the Korean War in the 1950s, a girl born with a talent for singing enters the Yeoseong Gukguk troupe to become a Korean traditional opera actress.
Why it's on our list: Everyone knows Kim Tae-ri and her range, but when paired with other powerful actresses? There's no overshadowing or clashing of skills involved, only the creation of a drama that shouldn't be missed out on. Plus, we found the focus on traditional Korean theatre art to be cool.
Doubt
Starring: Han Suk-kyu, Chae Won-bin
Genre: Psychological Thriller, Crime Drama
A well-known criminal profiler in South Korea and his daughter are entangled in a murder case, questioning his professional beliefs. He does everything to prove his daughter’s innocence.
Why it's on our list: This drama will confuse you if you haven't been hooked from the start, to be honest. This drama touches on criminal profiling (if you're into that) and the father-daughter dynamic is interesting to watch. A lot will be happening all at the same time, so keep your eyes peeled. This isn't a casual watch, but we love it anyway.
The story of a top celebrity and his fan, who end up being transported to 2008, when they are both high school students. A romance unfolds when two people who missed each other finally meet.
Why it's on our list: There's a reason why Byeon Woo-seok is beloved by every avid K-Drama lover right now — and this drama is a reason why. Both he and Kim Hye-yoon were darlings to watch; their chemistry could be described as "cuteness aggression." That aside, the drama was also a message to viewers saying to "live in the moment," and just love. It's a definite must-watch!
Mr. Plankton
Starring: Woo Do-hwan, Lee Yoo-mi, Oh Jung-se, Kim Hae-sook
Genre: Romantic Comedy, Dark Comedy
The world’s unluckiest woman ends up traveling with her terminally ill ex-boyfriend in search of his family.
Why it's on our list: Despite being fairly new, the drama stopped us in our tracks with just the plot. What do you mean exes are traveling together? What do you mean the girl was kidnapped by her ex when she was about to get married? Then, the angst factor enters: the guy is terminally ill. Anyway, life can throw you into the most unexpected situations, and this drama just portrays it well. Just try to give it a watch, it might even give you a life lesson or two.
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The popular Netflix K-Drama “Squid Game” has finally released its highly anticipated second season on Dec. 26, 2024. With the series’ seven new episodes, the story of Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) and the deadly competition continue.
The new season is set three years following Seong Gi-hun’s win in the games and has changed drastically from his cheery personality in the first season. Hardened by the trauma he’s been through, he is forced to return to the games with one goal in mind: to end the deadly games once and for all.
There, Gi-hun meets a new set of participants, all with their own stories, and is forced to play new games — with the same fatal consequences.
Way before the second season’s release, the K-Drama has already been nominated for Best Drama Series at the upcoming Golden Globes on Jan. 5, 2025.
All the Details You’ll Need for Squid Game Season 2
If you haven’t watched it yet, then this area’s totally free of spoilers.
The Official Season 2 Synopsis reads, “Three years after winning Squid Game, Player 456 gave up going to the States and comes back with a new resolution in his mind. Gi-hun once again dives into the mysterious survival game, starting another life-or-death game with new participants gathered to win the prize of 45.6 billion won.”
Squid Game Season 2 sees an ensemble cast, with familiar faces making appearances in the K-drama. Here’s the cast of Squid Game Season 2:
In 2022, Squid Game Season 2 was confirmed to be greenlit by Netflix. Prior to this, series creator, director, and executive producer Hwang Dong-hyuk initially said that he had no plans of writing a second season. But after hearing people’s enthusiasm and the popularity of the show, he immediately started considering it.
For Season 3, however, the confirmation came just hours after the release of Season 2. Director Hwang Dong-hyuk penned a letter to fans, expressing his excitement for the show’s final season.
Courtesy of Tudum/Website
“I am beyond excited to be writing this letter to announce the date for Season 2 and share the news of Season 3, the final season. The fierce clash between [Gi-hun and Front Man’s] two worlds will continue into the series finale with Season 3, which will be brought to you next year.”
Hwang Dong-hyuk continued, “I am thrilled to see the seed that was planted in creating a new Squid Game grow and bear fruit through the end of this story. We’ll do our best to make sure we bring you yet another thrill ride.”
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Great news, Bunnies! In case you missed it, OMEGA has recently named Danielle Marsh from the beloved K-Pop girl group NewJeans as their newest brand ambassador, the Swiss luxury watch brand announced.
The announcement came with a set of photos featuring the K-Pop star, wearing an all-black ensemble and her choice of OMEGA timepiece, the Constellation 28 mm watch in stainless steel and 18K Moonshine Gold, as well as a Speedmaster 38 mm watch in stainless steel.
According to a press release by OMEGA, the decision to name Danielle as their brand ambassador is inspired by the singer’s unique look, dazzling energy,and optimism.
“Danielle is full of energy and brightness. We’re so inspired by her positivity as well as her confident sense of style. It’s exciting to have Danielle representing OMEGA, and we’re looking forward to a very joyful partnership,” said Raynald Aeschlimann, President and CEO of OMEGA, in a statement.
Danielle likewise commented on her appointment, stating, “For me, OMEGA is the most beautiful symbol of time. Their watches are so precise, but also colorful and radiant. They allow me to be myself and express my style in so many different ways. It’s amazing to be part of this brand and join a family with so many other inspiring names.”
With the ambassadorship, Danielle is expected to appear in OMEGA’s future campaigns. She also joins Australian-American actress Nicole Kidman, Chinese actress Liu Shishi, South Korean actress Han Seo-hee, and more big names as OMEGA’s brand ambassadors.
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It’s the most wonderful time of the year and Netflix has once again blessed us with a sleigh-full of holiday romantic comedies to get you in the festive mood. Hallmark-esque Christmas films have become a sort of tradition on the platform ever since the massive success of “A Christmas Prince” — which remains the original Netflixholiday movie and the gold standard of festive rom-coms. It was so good they even made two sequels!
Year after year, the streaming platform delivers heartwarming tales that tickle our hearts and definitely make the season bright. From cozy small-town second-chance romances
to magical meet-cutes, this year’s lineup is packed with swoon-worthy stories and good laughs featuring all your favorite tropes.
So grab your blanket and get cozy as we unwrap the best of Netflix’s holiday rom-coms this 2024!
Meet Me Next Christmas
Released: Nov. 6
Starring: Christina Milian, Devale Ellis, and Kofi Siriboe
Netflix launches the season of love and snowy encounters with a serendipitous New York City romance
following Layla (Christina Milian) who races through the city on a “treasure hunt for love.” And by treasure, we mean the coveted tickets to the hottest event of the season: the sold-out Pentatonix Christmas Eve concert.
On a quest to reconnect with the man of her dreams whom she met the year before (Kofi Siriboe) and promised to see at the concert, Layla is determined to get her hands on those tickets no matter the cost. She partners with the professional concierge, Teddy (Devale Ellis), on a scavenger hunt through the Big Apple to secure tickets.
Netflix sets the bar high by releasing this as their first holiday feature, setting the tone for its succeeding releases. “Meet Me Next Christmas” has everything you can want in a romantic comedy film: a determined female lead, charming love interest(s), and a classic Christmas setting. I mean there’s no Christmas like in New York, and coupled with holiday tunes
by Pentatonix makes this film even merrier.
PS: the title is actually an original song by the acapella group made especially for this film! And just like their other holiday bangers, it’s a 10/10.
Is it just us or did the temperature get a little higher than usual for the chilly season? Hallmark movie queen, Lacey Chabert — a.k.a. your resident Mean Girl, Gretchen Wieners, makes her Netflix holiday movie debut with “Hot Frosty.” Ever heard of the song, “Frosty the Snowman?” This movie is exactly that, but the Frosty snowman in this film is a little bit more…sculpted than usual.
Young widow, Kathy, has been grieving for two years and is unable to move on from the death of her husband, which resulted in her neglecting the other aspects of her life like fixing the heating in her house. When she receives a scarf from a friend, she puts it around a muscular snowman sculpture, which magically comes to life! As Kathy helps Jack (Dustin Milligan)
navigate through his newfound human-ness, she finds herself falling in love again.
Magic and Christmasalways make a good combo and the fantasy aspect is what keeps many people to believe in miracles, especially during this time of the year. It’s funny, hopeful, and sweet. It kind of reminds us of that popular Olaf quote from "Frozen." How “some people are worth melting for.”
The moment we discovered that Chad Michael Murray would be on this one, we knew Christmas was going to be a lot warmer this year. “The Merry Gentlemen” brought an unconventional spice to the holiday lineup, which was refreshing and we’re sure many rom-com fans would agree.
The story follows Ashely Davis, a Broadway dancer who returns to her hometown and helps her parents save a beloved local venue. She puts together a band of male dancers, which involves them taking their shirts off on stage (“Magic Mike” but make it Christmas). And yes, you guessed it, she also ends up falling for one of the hunky dancers, Luke (Chad Michael Murray).
Although a feel-good and light-hearted Christmas movie, “The Merry Gentlemen” actually showcases emotional layers beyond the two leads which we thought gave the film a bit more depth. If you’re looking for a sweet and spicy — don’t worry, it’s not that spicy, and can definitely be watched with the whole family — rom-com, look no further.
Starring: Lindsay Lohan, Ian Harding, and Kristin Chenoweth
For Millennials, seeing Lindsay Lohan working on films again is nothing short of heartwarming. With the success of her debut Netflix holiday film, “Falling for Christmas” (2022) and the destination rom-com, “Irish Wish” (2024), Lindsay is in her Netflix movie star era and we are so here for it! So when we heard that she was adding another title to the list, it was like an early Christmas present.
In “Our Little Secret,” Avery (Lindsay Lohan) joins her boyfriend Cameron and his family for Christmas. As most people do, she’s nervous because his mother (Kristin Chenoweth) seems to disapprove of her, which sets her up for a few days of hell. But to her surprise (and horror), she discovers that Cameron’s sister is dating Logan (Ian Harding) who happens to be her childhood friend slash ex-boyfriend slash almost fiancé. Avery makes Logan swear to keep their past hidden from their partners and their family, which in rom-com language means it’s about to blow up in their faces toward the end. And it did, quite marvelously, we might add!
This film boasts a fantastic and dynamic cast that goes through a series of circumstances that will have you rolling on the floor laughing. It’s also filled with family drama and a well-balanced romance between the leads, which we thought was realistic and well-told. Another great addition to the Netflix holiday mix!
If we had it our way, there should be a Netflix holiday movie every single day till Christmas, but the company can only produce so much so in addition to those four films, here are other recent original Netflix holiday rom-coms you can binge-watch right now.
Best. Christmas. Ever! (2023)
This romantic-comedy follows Charlotte (Heather Graham) and Rob Sanders (Jason Biggs) who by a twist of fate end up on Charlotte’s old college friend, Jackie’s (Brandy) doorstep just days before Christmas. Charlotte has always felt overshadowed by Jackie’s seemingly perfect life which she details in her annual Christmas newsletter. This year, as she stays in her home, Charlotte is determined to prove that Jackie’s life is too good to be true.
Lindsay Lohan stars in this Netflix holiday film as a spoiled heiress who loses her memory after a skiing accident. She finds herself in the care of a handsome widower (Chord Overstreet) and his charming daughter, who easily worms their way into her heart. What happens when her memories return? Can she go back to the way things were?
Putting a little jingle to the holiday season is “Christmas With You” which follows pop singer Angelina (Aimee Garcia), who’s got career burnout and decided to do something reckless and grant a young fan’s wish in small-town New York. There, she not only finds inspiration that could put her back on the charts, but also true love with her fan’s charming father, Miguel (Freddie Prinze Jr.). There’s dancing and singing, and a whole lot of romantic moments that highlight how music truly brings people together in the best way.
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