There are a few hallmarks of the holiday season that signal, for me, that Christmas has truly arrived. A good snow fall, Christmas tunes on the radio and an evening sat watching The Holiday with the family. One part chick flick, one part Christmas film and every bit as sentimental as the season requires, this film has so much to love!

The Holiday features workaholic, movie trailer producer, Amanda Woods (Cameron Diaz) who is looking for a change of pace over the Christmas after unexpectedly breaking up with her live-in boyfriend. Amanda stumbles on to a house swamping site and impulsively messages the owner of a quaint cottage in Britain. Within minutes she gets a reply and before she knows it she’s headed to the UK.

On the other end of the exchange is hard working but unlucky in love newspaper woman, Iris Simpkins (Kate Winslet). When her ex gets engaged right in front of her she leaps at the chance to escape her sadness and weather her heartbreak in sunny California. Although she planned for a solo holiday, Iris ends up making friends with an elderly neighbor (Eli Wallach) from down the block and a associate of Amanda’s (Jack Black). Together, the two men remind Iris to have the courage to be the star of her own life. At the same time, Amanda is tapping into her own previously stunted emotions while discovering a few truths about herself and her life – with the help of Iris’ brother, Graham (Jude Law).

Nancy Meyers wrote, produced and directed this film. In fact, she wrote the script with Winslet in mind for the role of Iris. This was a labour of love for Meyers and all her efforts paid off as The Holiday opened in the number three spot at the box office, gaining attention from fans and critics alike.

This film is full of wonderfully touching moments and hilarious antics. Meyers does an excellent job of making her characters relatable and likeable. While the leading ladies really knock it out of the park a special nod must be given to Eli Wallach for his portrayal of the entirely endearing Arthur Abbott. He stole every scene, every time!

The Holiday is the perfect watch on a chilly winter eve or when you are wrapping mounds of stocking stuffers. Either way, it’s a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.