The dollars and cents of sexy Netflix Christmas movies

The second week of December brought with it a familiar theme in Netflix’s global top ten performing movies: Christmas. From holiday rom-coms like “That Christmas” and “A Royal Date for Christmas” to festive titles like “‘Twas the Text Before Christmas,” the streaming platform was filled with seasonal cheer. However, it was Lindsay Lohan’s “Our Little Secret” that topped the list, signaling Netflix’s foray into the lucrative world of Christmas movies.

For years, networks like Hallmark and Lifetime have dominated the market for feel-good Christmas films, sticking to a formula of family, togetherness, and Christmas magic. Despite criticism for their predictability, these movies have proven to be incredibly popular, with Hallmark becoming the most-watched entertainment network on cable during the holiday season. Netflix has taken note of this success and has started producing its own Christmas movies to capitalize on the trend.

According to market researcher Brandon Katz, the demand for holiday movies is only growing, with streaming services reaping significant profits during the winter season. Netflix’s lineup of Christmas movies this year, including “Hot Frosty,” “The Merry Gentlemen,” and “Meet Me Next Christmas,” is a testament to the streaming giant’s commitment to catering to this growing audience.

While Netflix is following in the footsteps of Hallmark and Lifetime, it is also carving out its own niche by targeting a younger demographic with edgier content. Titles like “The Merry Gentlemen,” featuring an all-male strip troupe, and “Hot Frosty,” a reimagining of Frosty the Snowman as a muscular handyman, push the boundaries of traditional Christmas movies.

Entertainment journalist Ann Marie Collymore notes that Netflix’s brand allows them to take more risks and explore unconventional storylines that wouldn’t fly on networks like Hallmark. By offering glitzier productions, buzz-worthy names, and occasionally raunchier plots, Netflix is able to attract a different kind of viewer looking for more intentional entertainment choices.

Ultimately, Netflix’s strategy of producing Christmas movies is paying off, drawing in viewers who are seeking a different kind of holiday experience. With a focus on intentional viewership and a diverse range of content, Netflix is reshaping the landscape of holiday entertainment and appealing to a new generation of viewers.