mbudrock

This film is certainly a departure from what a recent viewer to Hallmark Christmas movies might expect (introduce the characters, draw characters close, introduce conflict one, resolve conflict one, introduce conflict two, resolve conflict two, happy ending). I think that's what makes it stand out and also what makes this a very special selection. Contrary to what one reviewer stated, I don't believe the overriding theme is terminal illness. I think that misses the point. What I found the overriding theme to be is love and redemption that shine in the face of a terminal illness. Which are perfect themes for a Christmas movie. I do agree with the reviews that the movie isn't one of the best acted. Even with the star power on board. So it doesn't wear as well as some. However, the story still stands well and I hope Hallmark has the good sense to keep this film in its Christmas rotation for a long time to come.

Personally, I find Hallmark's movies just the right start to bringing in the Christmas Season. Sometimes they have an edge, but mostly they are good stories well told and acted. Schsmaltzey, a little too sweet, perhaps, but that's what makes them endearing and what I think gives the actors some latitude in their characterizations. While some have characterized Alicia Witt's acting in this movie as a step above her earlier roles, I find it fitting for the role. As I do her earlier work. This isn't Shakespeare, it's a series of feel good movies that stand or fall on the actor's ability to create relatable characters. I think she and her fellow Hallmark studio actors, deliver on those points almost every time. It's what keeps me coming back anyway. What is driving me crazy this year though is the set design/special effects. This movie is an unfortunate example of a trend where things like snow is nothing more than blobs of suds, when it snows, the sun is always out and shining brightly, it's as if Hallmark just gave up trying. The actors are doing their part to make these stories real. The production department could at least back them up with realistic props and effects. Bad effects can kill a story just as easily as bad acting.