Our Little Secret (2024) – Complete Review

Synopsis

The movie’s premise is simple but effective. Two exes, who harbor unresolved feelings and a fair amount of resentment, find themselves unexpectedly reunited during Christmas. The catch? They have to spend the holidays together after discovering that their new partners are siblings. The film explores the tension, awkwardness, and, eventually, the heartwarming reconciliation that ensues.

The Cast:

Lindsay Lohan, known for her ability to balance both comedic timing and emotional depth, shines as one half of the estranged couple. Her portrayal of a woman torn between old feelings and new beginnings is both relatable and endearing. Ian Harding, playing her ex, brings the right amount of charm and discomfort, making their interactions feel authentic. The chemistry between the two is both cringe-worthy and humorous as you watch them navigate their past while attempting to keep things civil for the sake of their new partners.

Kristin Chenoweth adds a delightful dose of humor and warmth as the quirky sibling of Lohan’s new partner. Her performance offers a refreshing contrast to the tension between the ex-couple, providing much-needed comic relief.

The Humor:

The comedic elements of Our Little Secret are its strongest suit. The film doesn’t shy away from the awkwardness of its premise, and that’s where much of its charm lies. The humor is mainly situational, relying on the forced proximity of the exes to create cringy yet funny moments. However, some of the jokes can feel a bit predictable, and the pacing sometimes slows down when the focus shifts too much to the personal dramas of the characters. Still, the comedy generally hits the mark, especially for fans of lighthearted romantic comedies.

The Romance:

While the film is primarily about comedy, the romance element is where the real heart of the story lies. As the exes navigate their differences and rediscover what initially brought them together, Our Little Secret offers moments of genuine sweetness. The Christmas setting helps accentuate these moments, giving the film a cozy, feel-good vibe.

However, the romance could have used a bit more development. The connection between Lohan and Harding feels somewhat rushed at times, especially in the latter half of the film. It would have been nice to see more emotional depth in their reconciliation.

Direction and Cinematography:

Stephen Herek, known for his work on films like The Mighty Ducks and Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure, brings his trademark warmth to the direction of Our Little Secret. The film is visually charming, with picturesque Christmas settings and festive décor adding to its cozy atmosphere. However, the cinematography doesn’t stray far from the expected aesthetic of a holiday rom-com. It’s pleasant but doesn’t offer anything particularly memorable.