Same Time, Next Christmas (2019): Cast & Ratings
Same Time, Next Christmas is a 2019 romantic film directed by Stephen Herek, starring Nia Vardalos as Faye Anderson, Bryan Greenberg and Candace Smith. It runs 1 hour 30 minutes. Its Echo Score is 60/100.
- Released
- Runtime
- 1h 30m (90 min)
- Director
- Stephen Herek
- Genre
- Romance
- Original language
-
English
- Studio
- EveryWhere Studios
- After the credits
- No No extra scene
What Is Same Time, Next Christmas About?
The premise of Same Time, Next Christmas without spoilers.
A successful young woman returns to Hawaii for her family’s annual Christmas visit, where she unexpectedly reunites with her childhood sweetheart. Years after being separated, the old chemistry between them sparks once more. However, unforeseen circumstances threaten to keep them apart, testing their connection and challenging their chance at a future together amidst the festive island setting.
Same Time, Next Christmas Cast & Characters
Nia Vardalos leads the cast as Faye Anderson, with Bryan Greenberg as Gregg Harris and Candace Smith as Heidi Williams. Directed by Stephen Herek; 7 actors are credited in all.
-
Director Stephen Herek
-
Nia Vardalos as Faye Anderson -
Bryan Greenberg as Gregg Harris -
Candace Smith as Heidi Williams - George Newbern as Woody Anderson
Also Starring in Same Time, Next Christmas
· 3 more- Phil Morris Alec Williams
- Lea Michele Olivia Anderson
- Charles Michael Davis Jeff Williams
More from Stephen Herek
More films directed by Stephen Herek, best-rated first: Afterlife of the Party, Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure, Mr. Holland's Opus and Rock Star.
Same Time, Next Christmas Reviews & Ratings
Our Echo Score gives it 60/100, strongest in rewatch factor (70) and weakest in story & flow (50).
Same Time, Next Christmas Echo Score Breakdown
Same Time, Next Christmas offers a pleasant holiday atmosphere supported by an appealing cast and some appealing scenic visuals, which many viewers find suitable for seasonal rewatching. At the same time, criticisms target uneven cinematography, predictable storytelling, and limited character chemistry, producing a mixed reception overall. The film balances its strengths and weaknesses, resulting in an average but serviceable rating for a TV‑rom‑com Christmas offering.
Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.
- Art & Craft 55
In terms of cinematography and production design, the film receives conflicting feedback. Several viewers praise the natural scenery and visual charm, describing it as beautiful and fitting for the holiday season. Conversely, other comments label the camera work and production value as subpar, with one reviewer calling the cinematography horrendous. The mixed observations place the artistic execution in a moderate range.
- Character & Emotion 60
When evaluating acting and character dynamics, the performances are generally well‑received, especially Lea Michele and Charles Michael Davis, who are noted as appealing and competent. However, multiple reviewers point out weak chemistry between leads and shallow character writing, particularly for supporting roles. The blend of solid individual performances and limited relational depth yields a moderately positive character assessment.
- Story & Flow 50
The narrative blends an original premise of staggered Christmas meetings with familiar rom‑com conventions. Some viewers appreciate the realistic love‑story elements and fresh twists, while others criticize the plot as predictable, cheesy, and poorly paced. The writing and editing are described as uneven, resulting in a story that divides opinion and lands near the midpoint of the scoring scale.
- Sensory Experience 55
Sensory experience draws from both positive and negative remarks. Visuals are highlighted for their appealing natural settings and seasonal ambiance, yet complaints about camera work and lack of notable soundtrack or sound design persist. The overall sensory impact is therefore mixed, offering moments of visual pleasure tempered by technical shortcomings.
- Rewatch Factor 70
Rewatch potential is bolstered by the film's feel‑good tone and suitability for holiday viewing, with many users recommending it as a seasonal repeat. While formulaic elements and uneven execution may deter some, the light‑hearted spirit and appealing cast encourage viewers to return for another viewing, especially during the festive period.
Cars in Same Time, Next Christmas
4 cars on screen, including the 2017 Toyota Sienna and the 2006 BMW Z4 E85.
-
2017 Toyota Sienna Minor role -
2006 BMW Z4 E85 Background role -
2015 Chevrolet Tahoe Background role -
2014 Nissan Rogue Background role
Same Time, Next Christmas Also Known As
12 alternative titles, including “В то же время на следующее Рождество” and “Gelecek Noel”.
- Also known as
-
- В то же время на следующее Рождество
- Gelecek Noel
- Bu Vakitler
- D'un Noël à l'autre
- Natale alle Hawaii
- O tej samej porze, w następne święta
- מחכה לך בחג
- Mesma Hora
- No Próximo Natal
- A la misma hora, la próxima Navidad
- У той же час наступного Різдва
- Alle Jahre wieder du
Seen Same Time, Next Christmas?
Same Time, Next Christmas FAQ: Cast & Runtime
Runtime, release date, director, cast and post-credit scenes of Same Time, Next Christmas, each answered in a sentence.
How long is Same Time, Next Christmas?
Same Time, Next Christmas runs 1 hour 30 minutes (90 minutes).
When was Same Time, Next Christmas released?
Same Time, Next Christmas was released on December 5, 2019.
Who directed Same Time, Next Christmas?
Same Time, Next Christmas was directed by Stephen Herek.
More films by Stephen Herek Who is in the cast of Same Time, Next Christmas?
Same Time, Next Christmas stars Nia Vardalos as Faye Anderson, Bryan Greenberg as Gregg Harris and Candace Smith as Heidi Williams, among 7 credited actors.
Does Same Time, Next Christmas have a post-credit scene?
No. Same Time, Next Christmas has no extra scene during or after the credits.
Coming soon to your phone
The Plot Explained Movie Summary App
From blockbusters to hidden gems: plot summaries, endings explained and timelines on your phone. Save your favorites and never miss a twist again.
Be the first to know when it launches. Your email stays private, always. Learn more about the app
