So, Hallmark’s decided to throw some gelt at a Hanukkah-themed rom-com. Fine. Could be worse. Could be another talking dog movie. But let’s face it, the network’s holiday formula is more predictable than the dreidel’s spin. Will “Hanukkah on the Rocks” offer anything beyond the usual sugary sweetness?
This time, the schmaltz centers on Tory (Stacey Farber), a corporate lawyer who finds herself abruptly unemployed right before the Festival of Lights. Trading legal briefs for a cocktail shaker, she lands a gig at Rocky’s, a Chicago bar owned by the endearingly gruff Sam (Marc Summers). Enter Jay (Daren Kagasoff), a Florida doctor with a mischievous twinkle in his eye and a clear interest in our temporarily-displaced heroine.
While assisting her Bubby with Hanukkah preparations, Tory decides to inject some holiday spirit into Rocky’s, concocting a “Hanukkah on the Rocks” celebration. Expect plenty of menorah lighting, latke-frying, and possibly some dreidel-spinning contests, all soundtracked by aggressively cheerful holiday music.
Amidst the manufactured merriment, Tory apparently finds herself rethinking her career path. The bar, with its cast of colorful regulars, offers a sense of community and purpose her high-powered legal job lacked. And, naturally, her interactions with Jay evolve into a full-blown romance. Will they overcome the geographic hurdle of Chicago vs. Florida? Will Tory discover that her true calling is to sling Manischewitz-infused cocktails? Will Marc Summers get a spin-off series as a wisecracking bar owner?
If you’re in the mood for some predictable holiday fluff with a side of latkes, “Hanukkah on the Rocks” might be just the ticket.
“Hanukkah on the Rocks” premieres Friday, December 13 at 8:00 PM on Hallmark.
