Hot Frosty, Netflix's most recent Christmas film, is the kind of production that warms our hearts like hot cocoa—with a sprinkle of magical snow and show-stealing musical moments.
After all, nothing says Christmas like a snowman coming to life, and falling in love, right? Add to this recipe a mixtape blending holiday classics and unexpected hits and, voilà—magic happens in the form of familiar comfort and surprises!
Music plays a pivotal role in this Christmas tale, going from timeless classics such as Jingle Bell Rock to modern remixes of classic pieces. The soundtrack is virtually a character on its own, guiding the viewers through touching, funny, and even some melty melted moments.
Hot Frosty—from snowman to soulmate
In the heart of the small town of Hope Springs, Kathy (Lacey Chabert) has an ordinary life with a tranquil routine as the owner of a local restaurant. Since losing her husband two years ago, she has dedicated herself to her customers and friends, while neglecting her happiness.
Everything changes when a magic scarf—a gift from her best friends—is put on a snowman that had been made for the town's annual contest. In the blink of an eye, the snowman comes to life and becomes Jack (Dustin Milligan), a charming man whose warmth rekindles emotions Kathy thought were forever frozen in time.
As Jack stumbles through human experiences and works to win Kathy's affection, the story unfolds at the sound of an enchanting musical score capable of turning even the most familiar holiday moments into something special.
As follows, we will explore the 12 tracks that provide this sweet and cozy Christmas tale with a perfect mood, stating exactly when and how they are featured in the film. Prepare to press play and embrace the festive groove.
1) Jingle Bell Rock – Bobby Helms
What better way to open a Christmas film than with a beloved and timeless classic? As we meet Kathy, she is wrestling with a particularly bitter morning.
With a broken heater and snow pilling outside, she is forced to bundle up in countless layers, like an onion, which makes for a comical contrast to the upbeat rhythm of Jingle Bell Rock playing in the background, adding a festive sparkle to her decidedly unglamorous morning routine.
2) Make It Feel Like Christmas – Simon Tellier and Victoria Hills
Enter the magical scarf! As Kathy strolls through the town's square with her special gift, gentle and mesmerizing music accompanies her. She is wrapped by holiday nostalgia in a warm embrace, and the mere act of putting the scarf around the contest's snowman neck, destiny unfolds in a moment of pure magic.
3) The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy (EDM Version) – Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
What better way to score a magical transformation than with an enchanting soundtrack? Better yet, an electrifying modern one. As Jack transitions from snow to flesh and blood, an EDM remix of Tchaikovsky's classic tune fills the air—bridging past and present, and matching the unprecedented magic unfolding before us.
4) Toccata and Fugue in D minor – Johann Sebastian Bach
Chaos takes center stage—when left home alone, Jack embarks on a marathon of TV and cinema culture. His binge-watching moments take an unexpected turn as he discovers Nosferatu, where Bach's iconic—and haunting—Toccata and Fugue in D minor sets the mood. Now that's an unlikely scenario, right? A former snowman developing a passion for vampire classics.
5) Motor City Santa – David Westlake and Nicholas Dover
The award for the most comical scene goes to Jack, who is fixing the roof—shirtless— while Motor City Santa is playing on the radio of a car nearby. The upbeat song contrasts with Jane's reaction when she sees that. She gets so mesmerized as to cause a minor disaster.
6) Wonderful Time of Year – Jeremy Lister
Nothing sets the tone better for a day of Christmas activities than a perfect musical backdrop. As Jack throws himself into volunteering work to decorate the local school gym, Wonderful Time of Year sets the mood while sparkling lights and decorations transform the space.
The festive melody also accompanies Jack and Kathy while they bake cookies—complete with Kathy's mischievous decapitation of a snowman cookie—and their Christmas decorating session at her house—the very essence of holiday cheer.
7) Oh! Pretty Woman – Roy Orbison
How about a Pretty Woman moment? Picture this: thrilled by the idea of going to the ball, needs a look to match the occasion and Kathy takes him shopping. As they browse, the melody of Oh! Pretty Woman sets the tone. When Jack steps out in his new outfit—the perfect ensemble—we can see a newfound confident and even more charming version of him.
8) We Always Had Christmas – Madisyn Gifford
Amidst the twinkling lights and festive decorations, Jack gives Kathy a delicate snowflake necklace as a token of his affection. The scene transitions to the school ball, accompanied by the heartwarming melody of We Always Had Christmas, making the moment truly unforgettable.
9) If I Could Touch the Sky – Jesse Legallais
The school ball is in full swing and the moment everyone has been waiting for comes—Jack invites Kathy to dance. As they slowly dance to the romantic tune of If I Could Touch the Sky, their connection deepens, their eyes meet and a silent conversation passes between them. It's such a magical moment—one they'll forever cherish.
10) Like A Holiday – FaSho
The mood changes completely when the DJ drops the upbeat tune of Like A Holiday. Jack jumps into an energetic dance, stealing the spotlight, but his joy is cut short as he begins to slowly melt away. Seeing this, Kathy quickly rushes him outside, hoping the cool air will help him recover.
11) Jingle Bells – Dennis van Aarssen and Jazz Gents
Back at Kathy's restaurant, she is reunited with friends and family. Jingle Bells fills the space with a classic and nostalgic touch—too good to be true. To spoil the moment, Sheriff Hunter comes to arrest Jack. What a mood killer!
12) feelslikeimfallinginlove – Coldplay (feat. Zerb)
Don't worry, though. This story has both a happy ending and a fitting soundtrack. When Kathy kisses Jack, feelslikeimfallinginlove celebrates the moment, their love, and the beginning of their happily ever after.
And that's how Hot Frosty wraps up, blending old and new tunes to show us that even a snowman can have a beat.
Hot Frosty is available to stream on Netflix and premiered on November 13, 2024.