Netflix is bringing the holiday spirit early this year with one of its most delightfully unexpected twists — Virgin River star Alexandra Breckenridge has transformed into none other than Santa Claus herself in a brand-new festive comedy that’s already generating major buzz. The upcoming film, humorously titled “You Won’t Believe Who’s Under the Beard!”, offers a whimsical spin on Christmas traditions, mixing laughter, heartfelt emotion, and a touch of chaos as Breckenridge steps completely out of her usual dramatic comfort zone. Known for her emotionally rich portrayal of nurse and midwife Mel Monroe in Virgin River, Breckenridge now trades the scenic calm of Northern California for a snowy, candy-cane-colored North Pole adventure that promises equal parts humor and heart.

The film centers on Holly Winters, a career-driven single mom and high-powered advertising executive who accidentally ruins Christmas for her son after a disastrous work presentation goes viral for all the wrong reasons. In an attempt to make amends and rediscover the magic of the holidays, Holly volunteers at a local Christmas charity event — only to wake up one morning cursed with a magical Santa beard that won’t come off. The curse, as revealed by a mischievous elf named Mistle (played by Schitt’s Creek alum Emily Hampshire), can only be lifted if Holly learns what it truly means to give without expecting anything in return. With her identity hidden beneath a fluffy white beard and a red velvet suit, Holly is forced to live as “Santa Claus” for twelve wild days, spreading joy to strangers while learning hard lessons about family, forgiveness, and love.

Netflix insiders describe the movie as a mix between The Santa Clause, Freaky Friday, and Bridget Jones’s Diary — combining slapstick humor, heartfelt lessons, and a few surprisingly emotional moments. Alexandra Breckenridge, who is known for her subtle, emotionally grounded performances, was reportedly eager to take on the role because it offered her a chance to showcase her comedic timing and playful side. In a recent behind-the-scenes interview, Breckenridge laughed about the daily challenge of wearing a full Santa beard and heavy prosthetics, saying, “I’ve played a lot of different roles in my career, but this is the first time I’ve had to glue on a beard and ho-ho-ho my way through scenes — it’s liberating and completely ridiculous in the best way possible.”

The film’s trailer, which Netflix recently released, opens with Breckenridge’s character desperately juggling work deadlines and family obligations before a magical snow globe shatters in her hands — triggering the spell that turns her into Santa. Chaos immediately follows as she tries to convince her skeptical coworkers, panicked neighbors, and her disbelieving son that she’s still Holly under all that facial hair. The humor is delightfully absurd, but there’s also a poignant emotional thread running through the story as Holly realizes that her relentless pursuit of success has distanced her from the people she loves most. Her transformation into Santa becomes a metaphor for rediscovering empathy and community — something Virgin River fans know Breckenridge can portray with authentic warmth and grace.

Supporting Breckenridge in this festive romp is an all-star ensemble cast. This Is Us actor Chris Sullivan plays Nick Frost, a cynical mall Santa who becomes Holly’s unlikely ally and possible love interest. The chemistry between Breckenridge and Sullivan reportedly delivers some of the movie’s funniest and most touching moments, especially as Nick teaches her the “real rules” of being Santa — from navigating mischievous elves to handling magical reindeer that refuse to cooperate. Meanwhile, Tony Award winner Jane Krakowski steals scenes as Mrs. Kringle, a high-fashion influencer who’s secretly running the North Pole’s PR department. Her flamboyant attempts to “modernize Christmas” lead to hilarious clashes with Breckenridge’s more down-to-earth version of Santa, who just wants to bring genuine joy to children.

Critics who attended early screenings describe You Won’t Believe Who’s Under the Beard! as “unexpectedly moving” and “one of Netflix’s most charming Christmas surprises in years.” Beyond its comedic chaos, the film carries a powerful message about identity, kindness, and the courage it takes to embrace imperfection. Breckenridge’s portrayal reportedly oscillates between laugh-out-loud humor and heartfelt sincerity, proving once again why she remains one of Netflix’s most versatile stars. One standout sequence shows Holly-as-Santa visiting a children’s hospital, where she must comfort a grieving child — a moment that brings both Holly and the audience to tears. It’s the type of scene that blends the actress’s dramatic background with her newfound comedic energy, resulting in a performance that feels both silly and deeply human.

Visually, the movie is a feast for the eyes, packed with glittering snowfalls, twinkling lights, and elaborately designed North Pole sets that rival any Hollywood Christmas classic. Director David E. Talbert, known for Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey, brings his signature blend of magic and emotion, ensuring every frame radiates warmth and whimsy. The film’s soundtrack features both classic holiday tunes and original songs, including a humorous number sung by Breckenridge herself called “Beard Me Up, Santa!” — a comedic anthem about embracing the unexpected. The production team has hinted that the