Review by Jon Donnis
Michael Fimognari's 2025 Christmas romantic comedy, Jingle Bell Heist, is an entertaining if modest addition to the holiday film landscape. The story follows Sophie, a sharp-witted retail worker, and Nick, a repairman struggling to get his life back on track, as they team up for a risky scheme at one of London's most notorious department stores. Their uneasy partnership is full of charm and wit, and the film balances lighthearted romance with playful heist elements.
One of the film's strongest points is its casting. Olivia Holt shines as Sophie, bringing a bright and approachable energy that makes her immediately likeable. Connor Swindells provides a grounded counterpart in Nick, conveying both humour and vulnerability. Lucy Punch and Peter Serafinowicz add comic flair, rounding out a supporting cast that keeps the film lively and engaging. The chemistry between the ensemble helps the film remain watchable even when the story itself falters.
The festive setting is another highlight. London in December provides a perfect backdrop, with glittering department stores, bustling streets, and cosy interiors giving the film a genuine holiday feel. Small details, from Sophie's sharp remarks to the playful banter between the leads, add personality and make it an enjoyable watch in the lead-up to Christmas. The mixture of romantic comedy with light crime elements gives it a distinctive flavour, even if it never fully reaches the tension or excitement promised by a heist story.
However, the film has its weaknesses. The heist sequences, while amusing, lack suspense, and the overall story feels predictable. There is little real threat from the antagonists, and the script often prioritises romantic beats over action or intrigue. Sophie and Nick's relationship, while charming at moments, never quite sparks, and much of the story follows familiar patterns without surprising the audience. Direction and pacing are functional but never inspired, leaving the film hovering in the realm of average rather than memorable.
Overall, Jingle Bell Heist is a watchable and lighthearted film that delivers festive cheer and some genuine laughs, but it is too safe and predictable to stand out. The cast, particularly Holt and Swindells, carries it through weaker moments, making it a pleasant way to pass an evening without expecting anything more. I would give it a 6 out of 10: entertaining for a single viewing but unlikely to linger in memory.
Out on Netflix now!
