Writer from Jacksonville Creates Netflix Christmas Movie ‘Hot Frosty’

Growing up in Jacksonville, Florida on the Westside, Russell Hainline had a childhood filled with monster movies on the Syfy Channel and Marx Brothers films, thanks to his father. His early exposure to classic movies and theater set the stage for a future in storytelling.

After high school at Stanton College Preparatory School, where he discovered his love for acting and writing, Hainline went on to Duke University to double major in English and theater. It wasn’t until after college, while working as a teacher in Washington D.C., that he realized his passion for writing and decided to make the move to Los Angeles in 2012 to pursue a career in the entertainment industry with his girlfriend, now wife, Emily.

Starting out in thrillers, sci-fi, and horror, Hainline eventually transitioned to Christmas movies. His first Hallmark movie, “Merry Measure,” aired in 2022, followed by “The Santa Summit” in 2023. These films allowed him to explore storytelling beyond the typical holiday movie tropes, focusing on themes of friendship and personal growth.

With the success of his Hallmark movies, Hainline’s latest project, “Hot Frosty,” took the concept of a snowman coming to life and turned it into a 2024 rom-com. Starring Lacey Chabert and an ensemble cast with familiar faces from popular TV shows, the movie quickly became a hit on Netflix, reaching the number one spot soon after its release.

Despite the fantastical premise, Hainline aimed to infuse “Hot Frosty” with humor and sincerity, creating a film that embraces the absurdity of a hot snowman while still delivering a heartfelt story. The success of the movie has cemented Hainline’s place in the world of streaming entertainment, proving that sometimes the most unexpected ideas can capture audiences’ hearts.

As “Hot Frosty” continues to charm viewers and remains on Netflix’s top 10 list, Hainline’s journey from Jacksonville to Los Angeles serves as an inspiring example of following your passion and taking creative risks in the ever-evolving world of entertainment.