Christmas, Crosswords, and Criminals–Oh my!
Reviewing a new holiday film, A Christmas Murder Mystery (2025) which brings together the crime mystery and festive genres for a holiday packed chilling viewing experience
When browsing your favourite streaming service for the newest holiday hit, you may not be expecting crime fiction to top the list of results—but A Christmas Murder Mystery (2025), recently released on Crave, just might catch your attention. Containing many of your favourite Hallmark-style tropes, from family reunions to the development of an unexpected romance, this film hits familiar notes while bringing a new spin to its genre.
In A Christmas Murder Mystery (2025), Vera Vexley writes crosswords for the puzzle section of the Golden Gate Chronicle newspaper, but her true passion lies in her work as a part-time consulting detective. Invited to the estate of the wealthy Stirling family for the holidays, Vera is among the last people to see the head of the family, Harold Sterling alive at Christmas dinner. The suspects? Harold’s wife, children, and lawyer, each of whom was in the estate at the time of Harold’s death, and each of whom has their reasons for wanting Harold dead.
Using her puzzle-solving skills, Vera will need to interview the various members of Harold Stirling’s inner circle to uncover a motive, gather evidence, and find the killer—but she’ll have to act quick, as other members of the family are being attacked within the walls of the estate, bringing a greater urgency to her investigation. Joined by Deputy Neal, and Harold’s most enigmatic son, Troy, Vera constructs a case theory that is sure to keep viewers guessing, jumping from suspect to suspect as new information comes to light.
Although, at its centre, the film is a predictably-plotted romp through a series of festive clichés, the odd twist and turn will keep its audience on its toes. Despite their initially one-dimensional appearances, the Stirling family’s members are full of secrets, presenting a challenge to both Vera and the film’s viewers as they struggle to solve the case. Even when they think they have it all figured out, a twist at the climax will send heads spinning.
With standout performances from both Vivica A. Fox, who plays Vera’s editor, and Morgan Bradley, who brings Vera herself to life, A Christmas Murder Mystery (2025) is sure to be a memorable entry in your Christmas movie compendium. Even in its weaker moments, when its dialogue falls flat or a joke doesn’t stick the landing, the soundtrack and atmosphere ooze with charm, bringing just the right amount of holiday cheer needed to keep its story afloat.
So, there’s no need to wait to check out this film which pairs nicely with a fireside game of Clue and a mug of hot chocolate. The holiday film A Christmas Murder Mystery (2025) can be found on Crave, ready to invite you into the Stirling family’s holiday festivities.
