Netflix’s new Christmas movie is streaming now — and it’s already reached no. 1

On November 24, 2024By Littum

Netflix’s newest holiday release, “The Merry Gentleman,” has just arrived — and it’s already topped the streaming platform’s charts. Previously, “Hot Frosty” held the crown as Netflix’s festive favorite, but “The Merry Gentleman” has moved in to steal the spotlight.

Online reviews are starting to appear now that the movie is streaming. At the time of writing, reactions seem pretty mixed, with some praising the all-male dance revue and others saying they’re not too keen on the concept. Having seen “The Merry Gentlemen” myself, I can say that it is not the most entertaining Christmas movie I have seen, and it is quite forgettable. But for everyone who specifically love Hallmark rom-coms, this could be a lot of fun for you.

So here’s everything you need to know about “The Merry Gentleman” on Netflix and what critics are saying about it.

What is ‘The Merry Gentleman’ about?

The merry gentlemen | Official Trailer | Netflix – YouTube

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“The Merry Gentleman” follows Ashley (Britt Robertson), a big-city dancer who is fired from her Christmas show because she is getting too old. She decides to flee the city and return home to her parents for some festive cheer, but soon discovers that their small town venue is in deep debt.

To save their bar in time for Christmas, Ashley decides to stage a Christmas themed male revue and she convinces Luke (Chad Michael Murray), the hunky local carpenter, to be a part of it. What follows is plenty of spicy dance moves and a blossoming romance between Ashley and Luke as they try to raise enough money to save the bar.

‘The Merry Gentleman’ reviews – critics don’t love this movie much

At the time of writing, “The Merry Gentlemen” does not have one Rotten tomatoes score yet. But out of the seven reviews it has, only two of them are positive. This puts the film on track for a rotten rating.

In her positive attitude, LeisureByte’s Archi Sengupta said, “The Merry Gentlemen on Netflix is ridiculously silly, but it’s the merry moments that will keep viewers hooked and happy this Christmas season.”

Sarah Musnicky from But why Tho? stated that “the extra special flair of getting an all-male dance revue to save the day is a nice touch that works to bring viewers in, but also reminds us that creativity can and will save the day.”

Hector David Jr., Marc Anthony Samuel, Chad Michael Murray and Colt Prattes dance shirtless

(Image credit: Netflix)

Unfortunately, the film seems to have more criticism than praise. Guardians Benjamin Lee said: “There’s nothing distractingly bad about this one, and there might be enough tick boxes for undemanding Christmas film contenders, but given the crowded space, there’s nothing here worth clicking either.” This is definitely a suggestion I agree with.

Samantha Bergeson from indieWire also believed that it lacked the special Christmas feeling: “Murray and Robertson feel tired as leads, and while Murray makes it work on stage, the more conventional scenes all feel like they’re missing some Christmas spice (among other things).”

Radio Times’ Patrick Cremona actually summed up my thoughts perfectly: “For lovers of the genre, it might go well with a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie, but like many of these films, it’s a transiently amusing elevator pitch that sounds funnier on paper than in reality.”

Should you stream ‘The Merry Gentleman’?

Britt Robertson and Chad Michael Murray in

(Image credit: Netflix)

While “The Merry Gentleman” may appeal to fans of cheesy holiday rom-coms, it didn’t quite win me over. Despite the undeniable chemistry between Robertson and Murray, their connection feels rushed, leaving little room for the emotional depth that typically makes these films memorable.

Some of the acting moments also come off as cringy, though I suppose that’s a bit of a pass for Christmas Hallmark-style movies. Unfortunately, the film lacks the festive magic that makes you want to watch it on repeat every holiday season.

That said, if you’re someone who loves to indulge in a Christmas movie binge and appreciates the lighthearted charm of holiday rom-coms, “The Merry Gentleman” may still be worth adding to your list. It’s not a standout, but it provides some nice entertainment for those looking to get into the Christmas spirit.

If you’re not feeling it, check out our guide to all 47 Hallmark Christmas movies and where to stream them. For those looking for something more intense this Christmas season, check out these top Christmas thrillers.

“The Merry Gentlemen” is available to stream Netflix now.