The Best Man Holiday: A Perfect Addition to Your Christmas Movie List

25 Days of Christmas - Day One - Pubishmas

The holiday season is a time for love, laughter, reflection, and the joy of gathering with those closest to us. Few movies capture the magic of Christmas as well as The Best Man Holiday, a 2013 sequel to the beloved 1999 film The Best Man. Directed by Malcolm D. Lee, this heartwarming holiday movie blends humor, drama, and celebration into a story that showcases the complexities of friendship, love, and the importance of family during the most wonderful time of the year.

From its snow-covered setting to its festive soundtrack, The Best Man Holiday is a quintessential Christmas movie that deserves a spot in every holiday movie marathon. Let’s explore how it captures the spirit of the season, the cultural resonance of its iconic moments, and why it remains such a beloved film in Black households.

Set 15 years after the events of The Best Man, the sequel reunites Harper Stewart (Taye Diggs) and his close-knit circle of friends, including his wife Robyn (Sanaa Lathan), the hilariously confident Quentin (Terrence Howard), football star Lance (Morris Chestnut) and his wife Mia (Monica Calhoun), the fiery Jordan (Nia Long), the sweetly loyal Julian (Harold Perrineau), and the ever-divisive Shelby (Melissa De Sousa).

The group gathers at Lance and Mia's stunning, snow-draped estate for the holidays, setting the stage for a mix of nostalgia, laughter, and emotional drama. From the moment they step into the warmly lit home decked out in Christmas decor, it’s clear that the holiday atmosphere plays a major role in the film’s charm. The decorations, the festive meals, and the snowy backdrop all provide a visual and emotional connection to the holiday season.

At its core, The Best Man Holiday tells a story of forgiveness, healing, and togetherness, themes that resonate deeply during the holiday season. Old wounds are reopened, secrets come to light, and tensions threaten to derail the festivities. Harper struggles with his career and the strained relationship between him and Lance, while other characters grapple with their own personal and relational challenges.

The Christmas setting amplifies the emotional stakes. The holiday season often encourages reflection, and the characters are forced to confront their past mistakes and make amends. Whether it's through tearful confessions, heartfelt apologies, or joyous celebrations, The Best Man Holiday reminds viewers that the holiday season is the perfect time to mend relationships and cherish the people in our lives.

One of the film’s standout qualities is its ability to seamlessly blend humor with heartfelt moments, making it a joy to watch. The banter between the friends feels authentic, filled with inside jokes and playful teasing that highlight their deep bond. Watching the group reconnect over the holidays feels like joining your own family or friends during a holiday reunion.

This is especially evident in the film’s most iconic scene: the men’s unforgettable lip-sync and dance performance of New Edition’s “Can You Stand the Rain.” With its mix of suave moves, playful humor, and undeniable chemistry, this moment embodies the pure joy and camaraderie that defines The Best Man Holiday. The scene has become a cultural touchstone in Black households, sparking nostalgia for the classic New Edition song and inspiring countless reenactments at holiday parties and family gatherings.

The “Can You Stand the Rain” scene is much more than a fun musical interlude; it’s a nod to the deep connection between music and Black culture. New Edition’s soulful ballad is a beloved classic, and its inclusion in the film brings an extra layer of nostalgia and celebration. The men’s performance is at once humorous and heartfelt, showcasing their individual personalities while highlighting their collective bond.

For many Black households, this scene feels familiar—reminiscent of the uncles, brothers, and cousins who turn family gatherings into impromptu talent shows or dance-offs. It captures the unspoken language of joy and connection that exists in many communities, particularly during the holiday season. By paying homage to New Edition, The Best Man Holiday taps into a shared cultural memory that resonates deeply with its audience.

The soundtrack of The Best Man Holiday is another element that solidifies its place as a holiday classic. Featuring a mix of soulful Christmas songs and timeless hits, the music enhances the film’s festive spirit. Tracks like “O Holy Night” and “This Christmas” evoke the warmth and nostalgia of the holidays, while songs like “Can You Stand the Rain” add an element of fun and celebration.

The music is more than just background—it’s a vital part of the storytelling, setting the tone for key scenes and amplifying the emotions on screen. For anyone watching, the soundtrack is likely to spark memories of their own holiday traditions and playlists.

While many Christmas movies focus on the magic of the season, The Best Man Holiday stands out for its relatability and emotional depth. It’s a film that celebrates love, friendship, and the enduring power of togetherness, while also acknowledging the challenges that come with those bonds.

For Black audiences in particular, the film holds a special place as a representation of their experiences, traditions, and cultural touchpoints. From the music to the family dynamics to the faith-filled moments, The Best Man Holiday feels authentic and affirming. The film’s ability to balance universal holiday themes with specific cultural nuances is part of what makes it so enduringly popular.

Several scenes in The Best Man Holiday capture the essence of Christmas and make it a standout holiday film:

• The Tree Trimming and Gift Exchange: These scenes are filled with laughter, warmth, and the kind of joyful chaos that accompanies family and friends coming together during the holidays.

• The Christmas Eve Dinner: The beautifully set table, the heartfelt toasts, and the blend of humor and emotion reflect the best of holiday traditions.

• The Snowball Fight: This playful moment captures the carefree joy that the holidays bring, offering a respite from the heavier drama of the film.

Each of these moments is steeped in the spirit of Christmas, from the cozy aesthetics to the focus on love and connection.

One of the most poignant aspects of The Best Man Holiday is its exploration of loss and resilience. Without giving too much away, the film does not shy away from the bittersweet realities that often accompany life and relationships. These moments of sorrow are balanced by an overwhelming sense of love and hope, reminding viewers that even in difficult times, the support of loved ones can light the way forward.

This balance of joy and heartache is part of what makes The Best Man Holiday such a powerful and enduring holiday movie. It reflects the complexities of life while celebrating the moments of connection that make the holiday season so special.

In a sea of Christmas movies, The Best Man Holiday shines as a heartfelt and culturally rich celebration of the season. With its authentic characters, iconic moments like the “Can You Stand the Rain” performance, and a soundtrack that hits all the right notes, the film offers a perfect mix of laughter, tears, and holiday cheer.

For Black households, the movie holds a special resonance, reflecting traditions, music, and moments that feel deeply familiar. But its themes of love, forgiveness, and togetherness make it a film that anyone can appreciate, regardless of background.

As the holiday season approaches, make sure to add The Best Man Holiday to your watchlist. Whether you’re laughing at Quentin’s antics, tearing up during the heartfelt moments, or dancing along to New Edition, this movie is sure to bring warmth and joy to your Christmas celebration.

25 Days of Christmas: Celebrating Black Holiday Stories
This December, The Blkuem is bringing the holiday magic with a 25-day journey through the most iconic Black Christmas movies of all time. From heartwarming family tales to festive comedies and powerful stories of love and togetherness, we’re spotlighting the films that have shaped how Black stories are told during the season of giving. Join us as we celebrate the joy, resilience, and creativity of Black holiday storytelling—one movie at a time.