Netflix’s newest Christmas release, My Secret Santa, arrives with a fun premise and a strong cast—led by Virgin River’s Alexandra Breckenridge and The Blacklist’s Ryan Eggold—but ultimately settles into familiar, forgettable territory.
The film follows Taylor, a single mom who loses her job and disguises herself as a resort Santa to secure work (and discounted snowboarding lessons for her daughter). With the help of her brother and his boyfriend, Taylor pulls off a full-on Mrs. Doubtfire transformation—so much so that the film often feels like a near copy of the 1993 classic. From the bathroom-switch gag to the supportive gay sibling duo, most beats feel lifted rather than reinvented.
There are small differences: a budding romance with the resort owner’s rebellious son, hints of Taylor’s past as a rock musician, and a snowy resort backdrop that gives the movie a cozy sheen. But despite the charm of its leads, My Secret Santa never fully finds a personality of its own. It’s not quite silly enough for kids, nor heartfelt enough for adults, landing squarely in “background movie” territory.
Still, for viewers craving something light, festive, and easy to follow—especially fans of Breckenridge—this might fit the bill. Just don’t expect the next holiday classic.
My Secret Santa is now streaming on Netflix.
