After cracking a tooth on Christmas Eve, newly sober Cliff embarks on an unexpected May/December adventure through Baltimore with Didi, his emergency dentist.
If you’re looking for a Christmas movie that’s a little offbeat, a little messy, and a whole lot of heartwarming, “The Baltimorons” is a gem of an indie film. This unconventional romantic comedy (from the mind of director and co-writer Jay Duplass) is unpredictable, charming, and full of the kind of humor that feels natural and real.
Set on Christmas Eve in Baltimore, the story follows Cliff (Michael Strassner), six months sober and just trying to get through the holiday with his girlfriend’s (Olivia Luccardi) family when he cracks a tooth. He crosses path with Didi (Liz Larsen), an emergency dentist who ends up being his partner in an unexpected adventure through the city. What follows is a series of small but hilarious mishaps, nothing too over-the-top, just the kind of bad luck that makes you laugh because it’s so relatable.
What really makes the film shine is its warmth. The characters feel like real people, and Duplass embraces the narrative’s simplicity in the best way possible. Cliff is incredibly likable, and the chemistry with Didi is effortless, making their dynamic fun to watch. It’s a May-December romance that’s a little rough around the edges, which makes it feel all the more authentic.
The movie is well-cast, well-written, and finds that perfect balance of wit and heart. These are characters you not only actively root for, but ones that you’d absolutely love to spend time with in real life.
It’s also a great modern Christmas movie, too. Not in that overly saccharine, Hallmark-y way, but in a cozy, imperfect, “life happens” kind of way. The city of Baltimore itself adds so much character, making the setting feel just as important as the people in it. Having spent much time there over the years, the film truly captures the rugged and endearing essence of Charm City.
Full of offbeat humor and genuine warmth, “The Baltimorons” is not flashy or grand, but a well-told story that’s funny, heartfelt, and refreshingly simple.
