THE THISTLE IN THE KISS | Available to Stream Now!
- thistleinthekiss
- Nov 25
- 3 min read
If you’re a fan of heartfelt, character-driven films with a touch of holiday spirit and Scottish charm, THE THISTLE IN THE KISS is a must-watch. This new feature from Felt Like Running Productions has just made its North American debut. You can now rent or own it on cable, satellite, and digital platforms like Apple TV and Amazon Prime Video. I’ve had the chance to dive into this film, and I’m excited to share what makes it stand out this season.

A Story About Family, Breakups, and New Beginnings
The film centers on Declan, a man whose holiday season has been anything but smooth. His girlfriend Stephanie breaks up with him on the way to Christmas dinner, a secret he manages to keep until New Year’s Day. When his car breaks down, his sister Rachel arrives to help, and her relentless curiosity pushes Declan to face the consequences of his past decisions.
This story isn’t just about a breakup or a car repair. It’s about the messy, sometimes painful process of confronting your mistakes and finding a way forward. The film captures the raw emotions of family dynamics during the holidays, a time when tensions often run high but love remains at the core.
Strong Performances Bring the Story to Life
The cast delivers authentic and relatable performances. Leonora Cooke plays Stephanie with a mix of strength and vulnerability, while Sarah Coyne’s portrayal of Rachel adds warmth and a bit of comic relief. Craig Andrew Robertson, who also directs the film, embodies Declan’s struggle with a nuanced performance that feels genuine and heartfelt.
The chemistry between the actors helps ground the story in reality. You’ll find yourself rooting for Declan as he navigates his personal challenges, and the interactions between the siblings add depth to the narrative.
Behind the Scenes: A Creative Collaboration
The Thistle in the Kiss is a product of a talented team. Robertson co-wrote the screenplay with C.J. Lazaretti and Leonora Cooke, blending their unique voices into a cohesive script. The film’s executive producers Alison M. Reid, D.M. Simons, and Kyle Wong helped bring this vision to life, with Reece Steel producing.
Cinematographer Calum Menzies captures the Scottish setting beautifully, using natural light and intimate framing to enhance the emotional tone. Editor C.J. Lazaretti keeps the pacing tight, balancing moments of tension with quieter, reflective scenes. The score by Aidan Smith complements the story perfectly, adding emotional layers without overwhelming the dialogue.
What Makes This Release Special


The film’s release on November 25, 2025, through Freestyle Digital Media marks an important step in bringing independent, heartfelt stories to a wider audience. It’s available on multiple platforms, including digital HD internet, cable, DVD, and satellite, making it easy for viewers to access.
For those who prefer streaming, you can find it on Amazon and Apple TV, two of the most popular platforms for digital rentals and purchases. This wide availability means you can watch it on your preferred device, whether that’s your smart TV, tablet, or phone.
A Holiday Film with a Scottish Twist

Director Craig Andrew Robertson sums up the film’s spirit perfectly: “Christmas in Scotland is all about the three Bs: booze, binge-eating, and bickering with your family. If you do it right, you wake up on New Year’s Day with a replenished, stronger appreciation for your loved ones. And if not…you’ve still had a bloody fun time, aye?”
This quote captures the film’s blend of humor and heart. It doesn’t shy away from the chaos and imperfections of family gatherings but celebrates the love that keeps people coming back together. The Scottish setting adds a unique cultural flavor that sets it apart from typical holiday movies.
Why Film Fans Should Watch THE THISTLE IN THE KISS
Relatable Characters: The film’s characters feel real, with flaws and strengths that make their journey compelling.
Authentic Setting: The Scottish backdrop adds atmosphere and authenticity, enhancing the story’s emotional impact.
Strong Storytelling: The screenplay balances humor and drama, making it engaging from start to finish.
Accessible Release: Available on Amazon, Apple TV, and other platforms, it’s easy to watch wherever you are.
Independent Spirit: As a Freestyle Digital Media release, it supports independent filmmaking and fresh voices.
If you enjoy films that explore family relationships with honesty and warmth, this one will resonate with you. It’s not just a holiday movie; it’s a story about growth, forgiveness, and the messy beauty of life.
How to Watch
You can rent or own The Thistle in the Kiss now across North America. Look for it on:
Apple TV
Amazon Prime Video
Cable and satellite providers
DVD through various retailers
The film is available in digital HD, so you get great picture quality whether you stream or watch on disc.


Comments