Noelle

Noelle Kringle spends her days at the North Pole in a way that would fit a caretaker more than a queen, yet she loves her family deeply. When her older brother grows anxious about succeeding their father as Santa, Noelle defies the usual routine and heads into the wider world to locate him. Her goal is simple but brave: reunite the family and restore the faith that the season's magic depends on people showing up for one another. Along the way she learns lessons about responsibility, doubt, and the balance between tradition and progress. She travels undercover, relying on quick wits and compassion rather than bravado. The mission tests her patience as she discovers a world where belief must be earned, not just given, and where family loyalty can be both a compass and a burden.

Directed by Marc Lawrence, Noelle is his original screenplay rather than an adaptation. Anna Kendrick plays Noelle, with Shirley MacLaine as Elf Polly and Bill Hader as Nick Kringle. It released on Disney Plus in 2019, and the production leans into whimsy and warmth to appeal to families at home.

Box office: No traditional theatrical release occurred as Noelle premiered on Disney Plus. Because it’s a streaming title, there were no theater based numbers to report. It fits Disney's strategy of bolstering its streaming catalog with original festive fare.

Reception and themes: The film leans into a cozy holiday mood that emphasizes family duty, personal growth, and trust in the season. Kendrick plays Noelle with plainspoken resolve as she weighs tradition against change. The comedy lands on gentle humor and practical optimism rather than loud spectacle, making it easy to watch with kids. Critics offered mixed responses, yielding a 6.586 out of 10 average from 730 votes.

Cultural footprint: Noelle sits among Disney's holiday lineup, showcasing Kendrick in a leading role that may widen her family audience. The film blends fantasy and modern sensibilities, offering a gentler take on Santa mythology. While not a blockbuster, it contributes to the studio's ongoing holiday strategy and provides a comforting option for streaming family viewing. Its family friendly tone and gentle humor sit well with viewers seeking reassurance and warmth during difficult times, reinforcing the appeal of streaming originals that feel like a familiar tradition.