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Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick Reunite in Heartwarming Rom-Com ‘The Best You Can’ – Now Streaming on Netflix

Just in time for the holidays, Netflix has gifted viewers with a charming new romantic comedy: The Best You Can, which arrived on the platform on December 25, 2025. Starring real-life husband-and-wife duo Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick – marking their first on-screen pairing in over 20 years – this feel-good film blends warmth, wit, and poignant storytelling to deliver an uplifting experience perfect for cozy Christmas viewing.

Directed and written by Michael J. Weithorn (known for classics like The King of Queens), The Best You Can explores themes of love, second chances, aging, and unexpected connections. While it may not be a traditional snow-filled holiday romp, its release on Christmas Day and focus on personal growth and heartfelt relationships make it an ideal addition to your festive watchlist, offering moments of humor, romance, and emotional depth that capture the spirit of the season.

A Long-Awaited Reunion: Bacon and Sedgwick’s Electric Chemistry

One of the film’s biggest draws is the undeniable spark between leads Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick. The couple, married since 1988 and parents to two children (including actress Sosie Bacon), last shared the screen in 2004’s The Woodsman and Cavedweller. Here, they play characters whose lives intersect in surprising ways, bringing their real-life ease and affection to the roles.

Sedgwick stars as Cynthia Rand, a successful New York City urologist in a long marriage to an older husband, Warren (played by the legendary Judd Hirsch), who is beginning to show signs of dementia. Bacon portrays Stan Olszewski, a sharp-witted but directionless security guard dealing with his own health concerns and a strained relationship with his daughter Sammi (Brittany O’Grady).

Their worlds collide during a botched home intrusion at Cynthia’s residence, leading to a hilarious misunderstanding and the start of an unlikely friendship. What begins with late-night texts filled with humor evolves into deeper conversations about life, regrets, and finding joy amid challenges. Critics and viewers alike praise the pair’s natural chemistry, noting how it elevates the material and makes their characters’ bond feel authentic and endearing.

Plot and Themes: More Than Just Laughs

At its core, The Best You Can is a smart, edgy dramedy about two middle-aged people navigating life’s curveballs. Cynthia’s ordered world unravels as she cares for her aging husband, while Stan drifts through underachievement, seeking reconciliation with his estranged daughter. Their connection provides solace, perspective, and hope, blending sharp dialogue with heartfelt moments.

The film tackles mature themes – dementia, health scares, family estrangement, class differences, and the messiness of long-term relationships – without shying away from humor. Voiceovers and on-screen text bubbles add a playful touch, highlighting their witty banter. Supporting performances from Judd Hirsch as the brilliant but fading Warren, Ray Romano in a cameo, and others like Olivia Luccardi and Victor Williams, round out a talented ensemble.

Weithorn’s script draws from real-life complexities, creating relatable characters who remind us that it’s never too late for growth or new beginnings. As one reviewer noted, it’s a “hangout movie” with familiar faces, perfect for a pleasant diversion during the holidays.

Production and Journey to Netflix

Announced in early 2024, The Best You Can filmed in Brooklyn under the working title Connescence. It premiered at the 2025 Tribeca Festival in June, earning praise for its lived-in authenticity and the leads’ performances. Following a brief digital and VOD release in November 2025 via Sony Pictures, it landed on Netflix as part of their first-window deal with Sony – just in time for Christmas.

Bacon and Sedgwick also served as producers, ensuring the story resonated personally. In interviews, they described working together as “always special,” emphasizing the film’s honest portrayal of love and aging.

Critical Reception: Charming but Grounded

The Best You Can has garnered mixed-to-positive reviews, with an IMDb score around 6.0 and praise focused on the central duo. Outlets like Pajiba called it “mostly delightful but ultimately inconsequential,” highlighting the “electric” chemistry and real issues addressed. Screen Rant noted its charming moments and soulful performances, though some pacing issues. Variety and Deadline appreciated the authenticity emerging from Bacon and Sedgwick’s ease.

Common consensus: It’s not a blockbuster awards contender, but a cozy, relatable watch elevated by its stars. Fans of the couple’s Instagram antics will love seeing their adorable dynamic translated to screen.

Why It’s Perfect for Holiday Viewing

Though not overtly festive with twinkling lights or Santa cameos, The Best You Can embodies holiday spirit through its messages of hope, connection, and appreciating life’s “best you can” moments. Released on Christmas Day, it’s ideal for post-present unwrapping relaxation, family gatherings, or solo bingeing with hot cocoa.

In a season often filled with sugary rom-coms, this one offers substance – exploring second chances and personal growth while delivering laughs and romance. It’s uplifting without being saccharine, making it a fresh addition to Netflix’s lineup.

Cast Highlights

Kyra Sedgwick as Cynthia Rand: Brings spirited enthusiasm and vulnerability.
Kevin Bacon as Stan Olszewski: Watchable and superb, fitting the role perfectly.
Judd Hirsch as Warren Rand: Solid and graceful in a challenging role.
Brittany O’Grady as Sammi: Adds generational contrast.
Plus: Ray Romano, Olivia Luccardi, and more for comedic support.

Legacy of Bacon and Sedgwick

This reunion reinforces why Bacon and Sedgwick remain one of Hollywood’s most enduring couples. From Footloose and The Closer to recent hits like MaXXXine, their individual talents shine, but together, they’re magic.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering them anew, The Best You Can is a heartwarming reminder of love’s enduring power.

Stream it now on Netflix – perfect for ringing in the new year with feel-good vibes.