Christmas movie season has officially arrived, and Hulu's latest offering is already sparking joy—and a bit of controversy. But here's where it gets controversial: can a holiday film released in early November truly capture the spirit of Christmas without feeling rushed? Fans seem to think so, as Joy to the World has quickly become a favorite, thanks to the undeniable on-screen connection between Entourage’s Emmanuelle Chriqui and One Tree Hill’s Chad Michael Murray. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just their star power that’s winning hearts; it’s the clever blend of humor, romance, and holiday magic that makes this movie stand out.
The story centers around Joy Edwards, a lifestyle guru who’s built a picture-perfect empire—complete with a fictional family and a dream home—all for her cookbooks. When a TV network decides to film her 'perfect' Christmas dinner, Joy enlists her best friend Max to pose as her husband, setting the stage for a heartwarming tale of fake relationships and unexpected connections. The film dropped on Netflix on November 1, and viewers are already raving about its charm. One fan on Twitter (now X) called it 'funny, heartwarming, romantic, and a very good Christmas,' while another joked, 'Chad Michael Murray is still gorgeous,' proving that his appeal is timeless.
Here’s the bold take: Is Chad Michael Murray the new king of Christmas movies? Fans seem to think so, with one declaring, 'I support it.' Others praised the film’s use of beloved tropes, like fake dating and found family, making it a rewatchable gem. Even Emmanuelle Chriqui herself gushed about the experience on Instagram, calling it 'the best time' and teasing 'a little holiday magic.'
But let’s pause for a moment—is it too early to dive into Christmas movies, or is this exactly what we need to kick off the holiday season? And does the film’s fabricated premise (both in the story and its November release) take away from its authenticity, or does it add to its charm? Let us know in the comments—do you think Joy to the World is a holiday hit, or is it too soon to deck the halls?
