After nearly a decade away, Lindsay Lohan returned to films in 2022, starring in Netflix’s Christmas rom-com Falling for Christmas. Since then, she’s added two more romantic comedies, Irish Wish and this week’s Our Little Secret. This career shift highlights Lohan’s brilliance as a screwball comedienne, carving her niche in the modern film industry as an actress-producer, reminiscent of Old Hollywood’s strategic stars. Her films are undeniably better for it.
Our Little Secret, directed by Stephen Herek, stands out among the trio, benefiting from his expertise in mid-budget studio films like The Mighty Ducks and Mr. Holland’s Opus. While it lacks the cinematic polish of his earlier works, it feels more like a traditional holiday movie meant for theaters than the average streaming holiday fare.
Lohan stars as Avery, a successful business consultant meeting the wealthy family of her boyfriend, Cam (Jon Rudnitsky). At the same gathering, Cam’s sister Cassie (Katie Baker) introduces her boyfriend, Logan (Ian Harding), who happens to be Avery’s ex and childhood best friend. Their breakup, coinciding with Avery’s mother’s death a decade earlier, adds tension to the four-day holiday weekend. The film cleverly blends screwball comedy elements with fresh relationship twists, creating chaotic yet entertaining situations.
Lohan’s portrayal of Avery channels classic Hollywood charm: relatable yet slightly elevated, with impeccable style and charisma. Avery feels like a grown-up version of the characters Lohan played in The Parent Trap or Mean Girls. Her chemistry with Harding, who portrays Logan as a grounded, likable character, builds on their shared history rather than falling into clichéd romantic tropes.
Herek’s playful direction includes quirky moments, like Avery navigating a mansion after unintentionally consuming weed gummies, leading to a comedic reading at a church service. Lohan’s expressive performance shines in this scene, enhanced by a CGI Mother Mary statue for a surreal touch.
Kristin Chenoweth delivers a standout performance as Erica, the commanding Southern matriarch with a sweet-yet-cutting demeanor. While the supporting cast, including Tim Meadows and Judy Reyes, have limited material, Katie Baker as Cassie adds humor and energy, though her potential remains underutilized.
The film’s exploration of grief, tied to Avery’s avoidance of her late mother’s memory, feels underdeveloped, leading to a somewhat uneven third act. However, the well-established bond between Avery and Logan brings sincerity to emotional scenes, keeping the narrative engaging.
Overall, Our Little Secret is a delightful, family-friendly Christmas comedy showcasing Lohan’s comedic strengths. It’s a testament to the need for more mid-budget theatrical releases, reviving the charm of movie stars. Now that would be a true holiday miracle.
