Let It Snow is a 2019 teen romantic comedy film directed by Luke Snellin, based on the 2008 novel Let It Snow: Three Holiday Romances by John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle. Set in a small town during a snowstorm on Christmas Eve, the film is a heartwarming tale that weaves together three interconnected love stories. Known for its star-studded young cast, Let It Snow is a lighthearted, festive film that blends romance, humor, and holiday cheer.
Plot Summary
Let It Snow takes place in the small town of Gracetown, where a major snowstorm hits on Christmas Eve, causing chaos and disrupting plans. The film follows several characters whose lives become intertwined as they navigate romance, friendship, and personal growth amid the holiday chaos.
The story unfolds through three main romantic plots:
- Jubilee (Isabela Moner), a high school senior, is on her way to visit her grandparents when a snowstorm forces her to take refuge at a local diner. There, she meets and begins to bond with a group of quirky and kindhearted people, including the charming Stuart (Shameik Moore). As they spend time together, Jubilee finds herself drawn to Stuart, though she’s dealing with her own personal dilemmas, including a long-distance relationship that she’s unsure about.
- Angie (Kiernan Shipka) and Dorrie (Liv Hewson), two best friends, find their relationship tested during the snowstorm. Dorrie has secretly had feelings for Angie for a long time but has been afraid to reveal her true emotions. The snowstorm brings an unexpected opportunity for Dorrie to open up, forcing them to confront their feelings for each other.
- Addie (Odeya Rush) is a high school senior who is struggling with the fallout of a breakup with her boyfriend, who has recently moved on. When a charming new guy named Jeb (Jacob Batalon) arrives in town, Addie is forced to confront her feelings about love, rejection, and finding happiness again.
As the snowstorm causes chaos, all three couples must navigate the challenges that arise—whether it’s personal insecurities, the complicated dynamics of romance, or finding the courage to be vulnerable. Ultimately, Let It Snow celebrates the joy, hope, and connections that the holiday season can bring.
Main Cast and Characters
- Isabela Moner as Jubilee: The main female protagonist who is stuck in Gracetown due to the snowstorm and begins to fall for Stuart. Moner brings warmth and relatability to the role of a young woman trying to figure out what she wants in a relationship.
- Shameik Moore as Stuart: A kind, easygoing guy who meets Jubilee at the diner and becomes her love interest. Moore’s charming performance makes Stuart an engaging and likable character.
- Kiernan Shipka as Angie: A close friend of Dorrie’s who is unaware of Dorrie’s romantic feelings for her. Shipka’s performance captures Angie’s vulnerability and confusion as she grapples with the changes in their friendship.
- Liv Hewson as Dorrie: A character who secretly has feelings for her best friend Angie. Hewson plays Dorrie’s quiet strength and yearning with tenderness, showing the emotional depth of a character struggling with her own identity and feelings.
- Odeya Rush as Addie: A girl dealing with the aftermath of a breakup, trying to reconcile her emotions while discovering new romantic possibilities. Rush’s performance adds a layer of heart and resilience to Addie’s journey.
- Jacob Batalon as Jeb: The charming new guy who arrives in Gracetown and catches Addie’s eye. Batalon brings a fun and sincere energy to the role, adding another romantic dimension to the story.
Themes and Style
Let It Snow explores several key themes that resonate during the holiday season, including love, friendship, personal growth, and the importance of being open and vulnerable. The film portrays how different forms of love, whether romantic or platonic, can shape people’s lives and bring them closer together.
The romantic relationships in the movie are layered with complications, misunderstandings, and the unique challenges that come with being a teenager in a small town. At its core, Let It Snow is about finding the courage to be true to oneself, understanding others, and navigating the ups and downs of relationships.
The film’s tone is heartwarming, light, and often humorous, with an emphasis on joy and optimism. The snowstorm serves as both a literal and metaphorical element, bringing people together and offering moments of introspection and realization. The holiday setting provides the perfect backdrop for a feel-good, romantic story that appeals to viewers who enjoy lighthearted films with emotional depth.
Audience Reception
Let It Snow received a mix of reviews, with praise for its festive atmosphere, engaging performances, and lighthearted charm. Viewers who are fans of teen rom-coms, holiday films, and ensemble storytelling found the film enjoyable, with the intertwining storylines offering something for everyone.
Critics appreciated the film’s diverse representation, with LGBTQ+ themes woven into one of the central relationships, as well as its relatable portrayal of the ups and downs of young love. The performances, particularly from the young cast, were also noted for bringing depth and authenticity to the characters. Isabela Moner, Kiernan Shipka, and Liv Hewson, in particular, were praised for their portrayals of young women navigating the complexities of their emotions.
Some viewers, however, felt the movie was predictable and that the romantic arcs, while sweet, lacked a deeper emotional impact. Others felt the film’s tone, while charming, didn’t offer much beyond typical teen rom-com fare. Nevertheless, for those looking for a light and festive movie to watch during the holiday season, Let It Snow provided a heartwarming and entertaining experience.
Conclusion
Let It Snow (2019) is a delightful holiday romantic comedy that blends humor, romance, and heart in a feel-good story about love and self-discovery. With a talented young cast, a snowy Christmas backdrop, and intertwining romantic storylines, the film captures the joy and challenges of young love during the holiday season. While it may not offer groundbreaking themes or unexpected twists, it is a charming and entertaining choice for viewers looking for a lighthearted, festive film filled with heartwarming moments.
