Queer Magic in the Snow: ‘Dashing in December’ Movie Review”
"Dashing in December" unfolds as a heartwarming Christmas gay tale where successful yet closeted entrepreneur Wyatt returns home, kindling an unexpected romance with ranch hand Heath amidst the enchanting landscape of a Colorado ranch. The storyline weaves the challenges of self-discovery and love against the festive tapestry of the holiday season.
The film’s portrayal of non-stereotypical gay characters, such as Wyatt not being out at work and Heath’s nuanced depiction, adds depth and authenticity to the queer narrative. By showcasing queer characters living ordinary lives, the film contributes to the positive representation of the LGBTQ+ community. This type of representation is crucial for fostering understanding and acceptance, particularly among younger audiences.
Dashing in December unfolds as a heartwarming Christmas gay tale where successful yet closeted entrepreneur Wyatt returns home, kindling an unexpected romance with ranch hand Heath amidst the enchanting landscape of a Colorado ranch. The storyline weaves the challenges of self-discovery and love against the festive tapestry of the holiday season.
The film’s portrayal of non-stereotypical gay characters, such as Wyatt not being out at work and Heath’s nuanced depiction, adds depth and authenticity to the queer narrative. By showcasing queer characters living ordinary lives, “Dashing in December” contributes to the positive representation of the LGBTQ+ community. This type of representation is crucial for fostering understanding and acceptance, particularly among younger audiences.
“Dashing in December” is a heartwarming Christmas film that, despite some script and editing issues, manages to deliver a unique and delightful viewing experience. The storyline follows Wyatt Burwall, a successful entrepreneur who returns home for the holidays with the intention of convincing his mother, Deb, to sell the family’s Colorado ranch. However, his plans take an unexpected turn as a romance blossoms between Wyatt and the charming ranch hand, Heath Ramos.
The film skillfully takes a familiar holiday film narrative and adds a fresh twist by centering it around a gay romance. While the overarching theme of a protagonist returning home to address family issues and finding love is not groundbreaking, writer Jake Helgren infuses Wyatt’s character with depth, providing a nuanced character arc. The initial dislike for Wyatt gradually transforms into empathy as he softens, revealing a more vulnerable side. The film also touches on Wyatt’s tendency to run away from difficult situations, adding complexity to his character development.
One standout feature is the portrayal of non-stereotypical gay characters. Both Wyatt and Heath defy conventional expectations, and their nuanced depictions challenge stereotypes. This adds authenticity to the storyline and brings a breath of fresh air to the somewhat overused plot.
The exceptional performances of Peter Porte as Wyatt and Juan Pablo Di Pace as Heath contribute significantly to the film’s success. Their on-screen chemistry, coupled with the well-executed character development, makes the rapid romance believable and engaging. The supporting cast, including Andie MacDowell and Caroline Harris, also delivers strong performances, adding depth to the overall narrative.
The film’s setting on a Western ranch during Christmas, coupled with the snowy backdrop, creates a magical and visually appealing atmosphere. The connection to “Brokeback Mountain” and the use of Western music further enhance the film’s unique charm. Despite some criticisms about the authenticity of the fake snow, the overall setting contributes to the film’s festive ambiance.
While Dashing in December may not have received as much attention as other queer Christmas films released around the same time, it is an underappreciated gem that deserves recognition. The film’s queer perspective, coupled with its heartwarming romance and Western Christmas theme, sets it apart. The representation of LGBTQ+ characters on Paramount Network, in addition to other networks, signifies progress in diverse storytelling and improved quality in queer seasonal films.
“Dashing in December” is a recommended addition to the holiday movie watchlist. Despite some minor issues, authentic character portrayals, engaging performances, and a unique setting, make it a noteworthy contribution to the queer Christmas film genre. For those seeking a heartfelt and inclusive holiday romance, “Dashing in December” offers a delightful viewing experience.
