Under the Christmas Tree
Year: 2018
Runtime: 3 mins
Language: English
Director: Jenn Wexler
Produced as part of Glass Eye Pix's 2018 Creepy Christmas Film Festival, this short film is the sixteenth installment in the series. Each film draws inspiration from a holiday-themed word, and this one is based on the concept of “jingle bells.” It’s a darkly imaginative piece, designed to offer a chilling twist on traditional Christmas imagery.
Under the Christmas Tree (2018) – Spoiler-Free Movie Summary & Plot Overview
Get a spoiler-free look at Under the Christmas Tree (2018) with a clear plot overview that covers the setting, main characters, and story premise—without revealing key twists or the ending. Perfect for deciding if this film is your next watch.
In a snow‑kissed corner of Maine, the quiet town of Camden shimmers with the familiar glow of holiday lights, yet beneath the twinkling façade lies a darkly imaginative take on the season’s most beloved symbols. The atmosphere feels both festive and uncanny, as the crisp air carries whispers of old customs and the promise of something unsettling hidden among the evergreens. This setting serves as a perfect backdrop for a story that bends the comforts of Christmas into something subtly eerie.
Charlie Freemont arrives in town on a formal assignment: to locate and secure a Christmas tree for the state capital’s annual lighting ceremony. A self‑styled “tree whisperer,” she works alongside her capable assistant Rohan, navigating both the natural forest and the town’s tightly knit community. Their quest quickly brings them into contact with the Beltran family, longtime keepers of a century‑old Christmas‑goods shop, who guard their traditions with a mixture of pride and apprehension. Among them, Alma Beltran—the family’s poised daughter—stands at a crossroads between preserving heritage and contemplating change.
When Charlie and Alma first meet in a fragrant pâtisserie, an unexpected connection sparks amid the sweet aromas of sugar‑dusted pastries. Their conversation drifts from work to personal hopes, hinting at a deeper bond forming beneath the surface of a simple holiday meeting. Meanwhile, the Beltrans’ business faces subtle pressures to modernize, creating an undercurrent of tension between progress and preservation that both women must navigate.
The film’s tone balances gentle warmth with a lingering chill, inviting viewers to wonder how the characters will reconcile their personal desires with the weight of communal expectations. As the search for the perfect tree intertwines with budding affection and the town’s steadfast customs, the story promises a hauntingly sweet exploration of love, duty, and the true spirit hidden among the holiday evergreens.
Last Updated: October 05, 2025 at 16:51
Explore Movie Threads
Discover curated groups of movies connected by mood, themes, and story style. Browse collections built around emotion, atmosphere, and narrative focus to easily find films that match what you feel like watching right now.
Cozy Holiday Romance Movies like Under the Christmas Tree
Gentle stories where festive traditions help new love and personal growth blossom.If you enjoyed the warm, festive romance of Under the Christmas Tree, you'll love these movies. Discover similar gentle stories where holiday traditions bring people together, leading to new love and happy endings in a cozy, comforting atmosphere.
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Narrative Summary
These narratives typically follow one or more characters at a personal crossroads who find connection and purpose during the holidays. A low-stakes conflict, often related to family, business, or tradition, serves as a catalyst for romance and self-discovery, culminating in an unambiguously happy and hopeful resolution.
Why These Movies?
Movies in this thread share a specific combination of a festive, cozy setting, a lighthearted romantic plot, and a gentle, hopeful tone. They are united by their feel-good nature, low intensity, and focus on positive emotional outcomes, making them perfect for viewers seeking comfort and uplift.
Movies about Community and Belonging like Under the Christmas Tree
Character-driven tales where a small town or tight-knit group fosters belonging.Fans of Under the Christmas Tree who appreciated its themes of community and finding a new home will enjoy these selections. Explore similar movies with a steady pace and light emotional weight, where characters build connections and discover where they truly belong.
Narrative Summary
The narrative pattern involves an outsider or someone at a transition point being welcomed into a group—be it a town, a family, or a workplace. The conflict is minimal and revolves around acceptance and collaboration, leading to a resolution that strengthens community ties and provides a sense of fulfillment for the protagonist.
Why These Movies?
These films are grouped by their shared emphasis on community as a central force for positive change. They possess a similar steady rhythm, light emotional touch, and hopeful outlook, creating a consistently warm and satisfying viewing experience focused on human connection.
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Under the Christmas Tree Summary
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Under the Christmas Tree Timeline
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