'Jingle Bell Heist' is a festive caper that blends crime and romance
"Jingle Bell Heist" is a lighthearted caper that is sure to brighten your holiday season, filled with unexpected twists and a charming romance.
Image: Instagram.
If you’re looking for a holiday movie that's a bit different from the usual romcoms, look no further than Netflix's "Jingle Bell Heist".
This quirky film combines the fun of a crime caper with a sprinkle of romance, set against the festive backdrop of London's holiday season.
The film follows Sophia, played by Olivia Holt, a smart and nimble small-time thief who works two jobs, at a posh department store named Sterling’s and at a local pub. She is also caring for her sick mother in the hospital, while trying to make ends meet.
Her covert petty theft is unexpectedly uncovered by Nick, played by Connor Swindells, a tech-savvy former Sterling employee now working in a phone repair shop.
At just 96 minutes long, this entertaining caper fits perfectly into a cosy evening with family.
Image: Instagram.
Nick spent two years in prison for stealing from the same store, and now that he is out, he needs to make money to get his own apartment to take care of his ex and their daughter.
Nick catches Sophia pocketing some stray cash, and he confronts her with a proposition: join forces for a bigger, meticulously planned holiday heist at Maxwell Sterling's department store.
Maxwell, played by Peter Serafinowicz, is not your ordinary store owner. He is a greedy millionaire who makes it easy to root against him. His obnoxious manners and obsession with money make him the perfect villain (in this case, the Grinch of Christmas).
After their first attempt doesn't go as planned, Sophia and Nick pivot. They now plan to steal the $500k from Maxwell's safe on Christmas Eve.
What makes "Jingle Bell Heist" stand out is its fun twists that keep you guessing, right until the last minute.
Holt and Swindells sparkle together on screen, making their partnership feel real. Their backstories are also touching, as both of them have faced tough times and unfair situations, which helps us care about their success in the heist.
There are plenty of laughs and silly moments throughout the film, especially when the chaos of Christmas shopping sets in.
Directed by Michael Fimognari, the movie cleverly pokes fun at how crazy people can get over holiday shopping, making it a cheerful addition to this festive season.
Even though the film doesn’t break new ground in storytelling, it keeps a light-hearted tone that makes it perfect for family viewing.
Rating: *** solid and enjoyable, though not groundbreaking.