Hi friends! As the Christmas season approaches, Netflix is all set to add another romantic comedy to its holiday lineup. It’s ‘The Merry Gentlemen’! Starring Britt Robertson and Chad Michael Murray in the lead roles, directed by Peter Sullivan and written by Marla Sokoloff, this Christmas romantic comedy will be streaming on Netflix on November 20, 2024. The 1 minute and 26 second trailer, which was released on October 24, 2024, has gone viral on social media with 1 million views. How is this trailer? How did Chad Michael Murray’s steamy dance moves and Britt Robertson’s chemistry work out? Let’s get into the details
What did the trailer say?
The 1 minute 26 second trailer revolves around Ashley Davis (Britt Robertson), a Broadway dancer. She is working in New York as part of the show ‘Jingle Bells’, but after a mistake, she loses her job and returns to her hometown of Sycamore Creek for Christmas. There, she discovers that her parents’ nightclub ‘The Rhythm Room’ is in financial trouble. To save it, Ashley implements a daring idea – an all-male dance revue with a Christmas theme! She is assisted in this project by Luke (Chad Michael Murray), a local contractor. The trailer highlights Chad Michael’s shirtless dance scenes, romantic chemistry with Britt, and stage performances filled with Christmas decorations. “We’re going to make this show the most special this town has ever seen!” Ashley's dialogue and Luke's dance moves add to the excitement of the trailer. The costumes, choreography, and festive BGM make the trailer colorful and energetic.
Trailer Highlights:
Chad Michael Murray's Steamy Dance Moves: Chad Michael Murray brings a 'Magic Mike' vibe to his shirtless dance scenes as Luke. His confident performance and romantic scenes with Britt are the charm of the trailer. "We've tastefully funned the tropes," Chad told Variety.
Britt Robertson Chemistry: Britt Robertson as Ashley looks slick in her role as the dancer-choreographer. Her Christmas revue idea and flirty scenes with Luke give off a feel-good vibe, but some have criticized her performance as “wooden.”
Christmas Vibe & Costumes: The trailer creates a festive atmosphere with Christmas decorations and stage performances. The script, written by Marla Sokoloff, and the costumes (construction worker, Santa themes) add a fun element to the trailer.
Dance Choreography: The all-male revue dance sequences are surprisingly good in the trailer. The choreography, which mixes the Christmas theme with a ‘Magic Mike’ style, is perfect for the holiday season.
Netflix Christmas Cinematic Universe (NCCU): The trailer features references to ‘A Christmas Prince’ and ‘The Princess Switch’ that will thrill NCCU fans. Ashley watching ‘A Christmas Prince’ and the Belgravian Royals article appearing in the Rhythm Room are fun Easter eggs.
What’s missing from the trailer:
Chemistry lacking: While the chemistry between Brit and Chad was impressive in the trailer, some reviewers criticized it as “forced” and “underdeveloped.” It remains to be seen how this aspect works out in the film.
Story depth: While the trailer focuses on fun, festive elements, it doesn’t give clarity about the emotional depth or twists in the story. The predictable plot may feel routine to some.
NCCU Confusion: NCCU fans were confused by the fact that ‘A Christmas Prince’ is a movie and ‘The Princess Switch’ is a real-life royal. It remains to be seen how this inconsistency is resolved in the movie.
Release Date & Streaming Details:
‘The Merry Gentlemen’ is set to stream globally on Netflix on November 20, 2024. With a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes, and a TV-14 rating, the film falls into the comedy, romance, and dance genres. It can be streamed in HD and 4K with a Netflix subscription. The film joins ‘Hot Frosty’, ‘Our Little Secret’, and ‘Meet Me Next Christmas’ in Netflix’s holiday lineup.
Final Word:
‘The Merry Gentlemen’ trailer is a perfect choice for those looking to watch a lighthearted, spicy rom-com in the Christmas holiday mood. With Chad Michael Murray’s dance moves, Britt Robertson’s energy, and a festive atmosphere, this trailer paves the way for the movie streaming on Netflix on November 20, 2024. Despite some criticisms, the film promises to be a feel-good entertainment during the holiday season. Get your Netflix subscription ready and enjoy the Christmas cheer!
Recommendation: Fans of Christmas rom-coms, steamy dance numbers, and Chad Michael Murray should not miss this trailer. Get ready to enjoy it with friends and family on Netflix!