Nothing makes me happier than finding a truly binge-worthy series and when that series is set against a Christmas backdrop it is just bliss! This Netflix original series, Dash & Lily is a holiday delight!

Adapted from the first book David Levithan and Rachel Cohn’s series, Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares, the story follows the friendship that develops between two strangers as they anonymously exchange dares. The two challenge each other’s biases against and for Christmas while divulging their hopes, fears and family complexities all through the safety of the red notebook they stash around a New York neighborhood for each other.

Austin Abrams as Dash and Midori Francis as Lily are a charming pairing. Their chemistry keeps cliché at bay as they each fulfill their opposing roles as bored, cynical rich boy and quirky, bookish, Asian girl. Francis brings an authenticity to optimistic Lily that could have been easily missed in the stereotypical female lead of movies in this genre. Abrams at times lacks energy but overall he delivers a likeable Dash the audience roots for in the end.

Supporting cast member, James Saito as Lily’s grandfather and Jodi Long as Lily’s godmother are wonderful in their roles. Both seasoned actors add humour and heart to the story and their scenes with Lily are among my favourite in the series. Dante Brown as Dash’s best friend Boomer is another cast member who makes the most of his time on screen. He is funny and enthusiastic and delivers it all with excellent comedic timing.

Because this adaptation was made into a series rather than a movie, the story has time to unfold and grow at a pace that is unrushed thus avoiding the formulaic pitfalls that so many holiday rom-coms can fall into. Each episode reveals another layer to the main characters’ personal stories that fuel their individual desires to remain as anonymous as possible but with each dare they grow closer to each other emotionally and occasionally physically.

One of my favourite things about this story is how both characters are challenged to examine their unrealistic expectations. While these moments of reckoning are unlikely to change the world, as a mom of teens, I appreciate this little dose of ‘mom wisdom’ that is delivered to the main characters through trusted friends. It adds a little something to mull over without being preachy or condescending.

This series is exactly and sweet and charming as you would expect a teen Christmas romance to be. It’s the perfect binge-watch to escape into during this second half of 2020. Set in pre-COVID New York city, this city is the third lead character with its sparkling lights and iconic city vibe overflowing from every exterior shot.