Vivica A. Fox Shines in a Heartfelt and Feisty Role in “The Lost Holiday” Directed by Jussie Smollett
By Edrea Davis – Jussie Smollett‘s latest film, The Lost Holiday, offers an emotionally rich and deeply nuanced story that explores themes of family, love, grief, and reconciliation. It’s also a beautiful love story between two men. The film is centered on Cassandra Marshall, played by the legendary Vivica A. Fox, who learns of her estranged son Damien Holliday’s (Jabari Redd) death and travels to Los Angeles to handle his arrangements. However, Cassandra is shocked to discover that her son’s husband, Jason Holliday (portrayed by Smollett), has already taken care of everything. Cassandra not only grapples with her son’s death but also the revelation that he was gay and had a life — including a husband and a foster daughter — she knew nothing about.
Smollett, who co-wrote with Jerrell Chesney, directed, and stars in the film, delivers a moving and authentic portrayal of Black love in The Lost Holiday. His character, Jason, is shown as a devoted husband and reliable provider, whose love for Damien, his late husband, was complicated but unwavering. Jason initially viewed Damien as someone full of talent but often unable to complete the projects he started. However, after Damien’s death, Jason is confronted with the daily responsibilities of caring for their daughter and maintaining their household. In doing so, he comes to the profound realization of just how much Damien contributed to their lives, a realization that deepens his grief and love for his late husband.
Vivica A. Fox commands the screen as Cassandra, a character that blends fabulousness with moments of being a bit over-the-top. Her performance is both spunky and heartfelt. Fox’s impeccable comedic timing brings levity to the heavier aspects of the story. She masterfully conveys a mother grappling with the shock of discovering her son’s hidden life, all while grieving and undergoing her own journey of personal growth. This subplot of Cassandra’s evolution injects a sense of hope into the film, serving as a reminder that life, even in the wake of grief, continues.
While the film delivers many laugh-out-loud moments, it does not shy away from the raw emotions tied to trauma and grief. Jason’s knowledge of Damien’s strained relationship with his mother creates tension that drives much of the film’s conflict.
Smollett’s direction shines, particularly in his ability to tell a story that authentically captures the experiences of Black LGBTQ+ individuals. The relationship between Jason and Damien is portrayed with respect and depth, avoiding stereotypical narratives, and instead focuses on love, care, and partnership. The film also highlights the importance of chosen family, as seen in Jason’s role as a father to the foster daughter they were in the process of adopting, and their friendship with Duck (Marquise Vilson), narrative threads that add emotional depth to the film.
Overall, The Lost Holiday is a solid, heartwarming, and often humorous film with a stellar cast and a script that skillfully weaves humor with heavy emotional moments. Smollett’s performance as Jason is a standout, as is Fox’s award-worthy portrayal of Cassandra. This film is not only about family and love, but also about coming to terms with the past and finding healing in unexpected places.
