Happy Holidays (2008)

In the heartwarming film "Happy Holidays," three childhood chums find themselves unexpectedly back together in their quaint Connecticut hometown, just as Christmas is in full swing. Unraveling a story of personal growth, the ties that bind, and the journey to mutual understanding, the film cleverly explores the dichotomy of perception and reality, underscoring how we often set up our own hurdles in life. Our key players are Alden, Kirby, and Patrick, all of whom sport contrasting outlooks on life. Alden, a recent convert to Judaism, is a Chicago resident with an aversion to settling down. Kirby, a devout Catholic from Baltimore, leans on his faith to excuse his moral slips. Meanwhile, Patrick, a self-professed Atheist and open homosexual, still resides in his childhood home in Connecticut, which he bought from his parents who now live in Maine. Patrick grapples with his parents' perceived disapproval of his sexuality and the uncertain status of his relationship with Kevin, his partner. The narrative mainly orbits around Patrick, whose life is becoming increasingly complex, particularly during the holiday season. However, he shelves his personal quandaries to aid his friends. Alden is fleeing from his longtime girlfriend who has just proposed, while Kirby is in town to attend his estranged father's funeral. Together, they spend the ensuing forty-eight hours attempting to recapture their past, only to realize that their memories are not as rose-tinted as they imagined. A hidden time capsule laden with mementos from their past - a bottle of Patrick's uncle's wine, an aged TV Guide, and the uplifting tunes of Billy Ocean - catapults them back to the 1980s. Yet, the stark reality of the present proves more commanding than any cherished remembrance of yesteryears. Trapped in their current lives, they must reconcile with their present selves, embracing their identities as adults while redefining their bonds of friendship. "Happy Holidays" is more than just a comedy; it is a contemplative exploration of perception, personal convictions, and ultimately, acceptance. It's a film that will make you laugh, ponder, and feel, weaving a tapestry of poignant moments and belly laughs. After watching, you'll realize that the holiday season, like life, will never be the same.

Happy Holidays is a comedy movie featuring Paul Hungerford and directed by James Ferguson.

Happy Holidays is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Tubi TV and VUDU Free.

It is also possible to buy Happy Holidays on Amazon Video.