The 2006 festive rom-com film The Holiday continues to captivate audiences every holiday season, thanks to its star-studded cast including Cameron Diaz, Jude Law, Kate Winslet, and Jack Black. Yet behind its charm and popularity lies a surprising confession from the film's creator, Nancy Meyers. On the Hollywood Gold podcast, she opened up about how she never originally intended for the movie to be associated with Christmas.
Meyers admitted, "I know it’s called The Holiday because they’re taking a holiday, but it could have been called [that] if it was in the summer. Everybody sees it as a Christmas movie, and when I watched it last night to prepare, I was a little shocked at how much Christmas was in it." While the film is now viewed as one of the quintessential festive films, Meyers reflected on her intention to simply tell the stories of the characters, emphasizing the seasonal setting's role as it reflects the loneliness many may feel during this time of year.
She elaborated, saying, "I just really wanted to tell the story about these people. I set it at Christmas because [the season can be lonely]." This insight is especially poignant, considering the themes of connection and heartache threaded throughout the film's narrative. During her chat with fans, Meyers also recounted her recent reunion with Jude Law, which took place after his Hollywood Walk of Fame ceremony on December 12.
“Look who I'm having lunch with today. Jude Law! Congratulations on your so well-deserved star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. That's amazing," she shared enthusiastically on Instagram. The warm exchange between the two stars was evident, especially when discussing the continued intrigue surrounding the possibility of a sequel to the beloved film.
Meyers quipped to Law about the frequent questions he receives about the potential for another installment, pointing out, "I don’t think I've seen you since we wrapped The Holiday. Speaking of which, I've seen you've interviewed a lot, and they keep asking you if there's going to be a sequel. What do you think?" Law humorously referenced his much-loved character, Mr. Napkin Head, during this exchange, evoking laughter from those present.
Fans watching the interactions took to social media, expressing their desires for more holiday magic. One enthusiastic fan commented, “This is not the time of year to be messing around with our hearts, Nancy!” echoing the collective hope for new content from the iconic director. Another urged for her to make it happen, writing, “For the love of god, please give us a sequel we are dying without a new Nancy Meyers movie!!!”
Regardless of what the future holds for The Holiday, its blend of comedy, romance, and relatable struggles stands the test of time. The film's messages around love, friendship, and the holiday spirit resonate with audiences year after year.
For those eager to catch up on the festive film or perhaps watch it for the first time, The Holiday is available to stream on Netflix, just in time for this year’s holiday season. With enduring affection from fans and the film's cultural significance, The Holiday remains a staple of holiday viewing.