Operation Christmas Drop (2020) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
Operation Christmas Drop (2020) is a feel-good holiday rom-com directed by Martin Wood and starring Kat Graham and Alexander Ludwig. The film is inspired by the real-life U.S. Air Force humanitarian mission of the same name, which delivers supplies to remote Pacific islands during the holiday season. Set against a tropical backdrop, this Netflix original offers a refreshing take on Christmas movies, moving away from the usual snowy settings and bringing a heartwarming story of generosity, love, and community.
Let’s dive into what makes Operation Christmas Drop an enjoyable holiday watch and provide you with all the details on where to stream it in the U.S.
Plot Summary: A Tropical Holiday Mission
Operation Christmas Drop follows Erica Miller (Kat Graham), a dedicated and career-focused congressional aide tasked with reviewing a U.S. Air Force base in Guam for possible budget cuts. Her boss, Congresswoman Bradford (Virginia Madsen), sends her to the Pacific island over the holidays with the hope of finding enough evidence to justify shutting down the base and its annual humanitarian mission, Operation Christmas Drop.
When Erica arrives, she meets Captain Andrew Jantz (Alexander Ludwig), a charismatic and laid-back pilot who’s in charge of the base’s holiday mission. Andrew’s passion for the operation clashes with Erica’s rigid focus on her job, but as they spend time together, Erica begins to soften and understand the true purpose of the mission—bringing essential supplies to isolated communities in the Pacific islands.
As Erica witnesses the impact of the operation and the selflessness of the base’s personnel, she is forced to reconsider her priorities, and a romance starts to blossom between her and Andrew. With a heartwarming blend of Christmas cheer, romance, and community spirit, Operation Christmas Drop delivers a message of kindness and the joy of giving during the holiday season.
Themes: Generosity, Holiday Spirit, and Finding Balance
At its core, Operation Christmas Drop is about the power of generosity and the true meaning of the holiday spirit. The film’s title refers to the real-life humanitarian mission that the U.S. Air Force has conducted since 1952, in which they drop donated supplies to remote Pacific islands. The movie highlights how one act of kindness can bring joy and hope to those in need, even in the most remote parts of the world.
Beyond the holiday cheer, the film also explores themes of work-life balance. Erica’s initial goal is to excel in her career and prove her value to her boss, but over the course of the movie, she learns that life is about more than work. Her experiences in Guam open her eyes to the importance of human connection, community, and the need to step outside of one’s comfort zone.
The budding romance between Erica and Andrew is woven throughout these themes, adding a touch of sweetness to the story. Their dynamic shifts from professional conflict to genuine affection as they work together for the greater good.
Why Operation Christmas Drop Stands Out
While many holiday films stick to traditional winter settings, Operation Christmas Drop stands out by taking place in the sun-drenched beauty of Guam, a tropical island in the Pacific. This change of scenery brings a refreshing twist to the typical Christmas movie formula, offering viewers a holiday story filled with palm trees, beach scenes, and island culture rather than snow-covered streets and cozy fireplaces.
Kat Graham and Alexander Ludwig deliver charming performances that drive the film’s heartwarming narrative. Graham plays the role of Erica with a mix of strength and vulnerability, making her character’s transformation from career-driven to compassionate feel genuine. Ludwig’s Andrew is the perfect counterbalance, embodying the warmth, charm, and dedication of someone who is passionate about helping others.
The film is also notable for being inspired by the real-life Operation Christmas Drop, an annual humanitarian effort that provides essential supplies to remote island communities in the Pacific. By incorporating this real-world mission into the film, Operation Christmas Drop adds a layer of authenticity and reminds audiences of the importance of giving back.
Why You Should Watch Operation Christmas Drop
If you’re in the mood for a heartwarming holiday film that’s a little different from the usual snow-and-sleigh bells fare, Operation Christmas Drop is a great choice. It’s a feel-good movie that showcases the true spirit of Christmas—kindness, generosity, and helping those in need. The chemistry between Kat Graham and Alexander Ludwig, combined with the beautiful tropical setting, makes for a refreshing holiday rom-com that will leave you with a warm, festive feeling.
Whether you’re looking for a light-hearted romance, a movie that highlights the joy of giving, or just a fun holiday watch with a twist, Operation Christmas Drop has something for everyone.
Where to Watch Operation Christmas Drop Online in 2024
Operation Christmas Drop is a Netflix Original, meaning it is available exclusively on Netflix. If you’re subscribed to the streaming service, you can easily access and enjoy the movie during the holiday season.
1. Netflix
As a Netflix Original film, Operation Christmas Drop can only be streamed on Netflix. If you have a subscription, you can watch it at any time without additional costs. With its heartwarming storyline and tropical Christmas setting, this film is perfect for a cozy holiday movie night.
Netflix Subscription Plans:
- Basic: $9.99/month (one device, standard definition)
- Standard: $15.49/month (two devices, HD)
- Premium: $19.99/month (four devices, UHD)
2. DVD/Blu-ray Availability
While Operation Christmas Drop is primarily available through Netflix, it may also be available in physical formats like DVD or Blu-ray in some regions. However, since it’s a Netflix Original, it’s not widely distributed outside the platform.
Conclusion: Watch Operation Christmas Drop Online Today
Operation Christmas Drop is a delightful holiday film that brings a fresh twist to the traditional Christmas movie formula. With its tropical setting, real-world inspiration, and themes of generosity and kindness, it’s a perfect movie for anyone looking to enjoy a heartwarming story during the holiday season. Kat Graham and Alexander Ludwig’s chemistry makes the film even more enjoyable, adding romance and charm to the feel-good narrative.
If you’re ready to escape the usual winter wonderland and dive into a tropical holiday adventure, head over to Netflix to stream Operation Christmas Drop today!
Available Streaming Service:
- Netflix (Streaming)
Grab your favorite holiday snacks, cozy up on the couch, and get ready to enjoy a tropical take on Christmas cheer!
