The Christmas Setup Review: Christmas Has Always Been Queer
Lifetime’s The Christmas Setup does more than finally provide the LBGTQIA community representation in the beloved genre of TV Christmas movies. It does so in the most authentic way possible — not only are its stars Ben Lewis and Blake Lee queer actors, but they’re also married in real life.
Lewis’ Hugo and Lee’s Patrick being gay is just a detail of the movie; it’s not anything that’s given unnecessary attention. This is another necessary element of authentic representation.
Yet, the fact that Edger Carol — the founder Hugo and Patrick’s hometown — was probably queer adds such richness to the story.
It definitely gives both men a reason to feel connected to their small town and want to stay there. But it also emphasizes an important fact that some people have yet to comprehend: queer people and their history have existed for as long as straight people and theirs.
So, not only is it about time that a movie like The Christmas Setup exists, it’s long past due. On top of all of that, it’s a fantastic TV Christmas movie.
It employs several key elements that are necessary to achieve excellence in its genre.
First and foremost, Hugo and Patrick kiss twice. It may seem like a silly requirement, but it’s one that always enhances a romance. It adds complexity to the plot.
The guys have real feelings for each other. The Christmas Setup tells the story of them figuring out how to make a relationship work. It doesn’t take too long for them to realize those feelings. So, it’s very easy to become invested in their future.
It’s rare that any couple kisses twice in a Christmas movie, but because queer representation is so scarce in general, I can’t ignore the fact that they kiss twice here. It matters because it’s a step toward normalizing same-sex intimacy on screen.
Next, they have a real history with each other. I wish we got to see a flashback scene of them awkwardly interacting at the deli, but even though we’re just told about it, it adds a layer of chemistry between the fictional characters on top of what Lewis and Lee have as husbands.
There’s also no angst or broken hearts to speak of yet since Hugo wasn’t out in high school. The hurdle in the way of them being together is just Hugo’s job.
Another key element to a great TV Christmas movie is a believable obstacle, and Hugo’s promotion satisfies that requirement.
We all know he’s not going to go to London — that’s not the point. The point is that two people could totally hook up on Christmas break and have this job between them that’s keeping them from being serious. To reference Taylor Swift, it’s actually very “‘Tis The Damn Season” (but happy) of them.
The final element that makes The Christmas Setup great is it’s supporting characters.
Fran Drescher makes the perfect TV Christmas Movie mom. You know she’d absolutely meddle in her sons’ love lives.
But Maddie (Ellen Wong) is as key to the plot as Hugo and Patrick. Her best friendship with Hugo feels natural, and I want to see her find love, too. So, the C plot of the movie definitely isn’t a throwaway.
The film falters only at the end because the conclusion is so rushed.
Hugo’s speech is so confusing. Why does he make a speech to the whole train station on Christmas Eve about deciding to stay? The only member of the town he bonds with is his cousin. He should’ve had that particular conversation with Patrick before his speech.
The end is jarring because we don’t really know the fate of the train station. Hugo is going to stay and do all of the legal work to save it, that’s implied.
But he should’ve told the townspeople that he discovered new details and is going to fight the town board on behalf of its residents because of Edgar Carol’s wishes.
If he said that and added a bow on top saying that people could soon seek legal counsel at his private offices, I would’ve gotten the closure I needed.
Instead, the last few minutes leave me wondering what happened and frantically trying to figure out if I missed something.
It’s a shame that such an important movie that’s well done overall missteps where it matters most.
Notes
- I love a drag queen in a Christmas movie.
- The Northern Lights scene is so good!
- I’m really glad we don’t have to watch Patrick’s Dad and Hugo’s mon hook up because just…no.
- I’m excusing the “Asian sidekick” because A Sugar And Spice Holiday is coming.
What did you think of this episode of The Christmas Setup? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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The Christmas Setup airs throughout the holiday season on Lifetime.
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Esme Mazzeo
Esme Mazzeo is a lifestyle and entertainment journalist from Long Island. When she's not writing for work, she's writing for fun, or searching for something to satisfy her sweet tooth. She thinks rainy days are the best kind of days. Certified night owl.