This movie exemplifies what the Christmas season is all about.
It's very well-written with a plausible and interesting plot. The acting is so good by the four leads that they hold your interest throughout. Merritt Patterson and Jon Cor have real screen chemistry here, and are very good in developing characters with depth and feeling. Engaging performances whether their scenes are together or apart. Whoever cast Paula Shaw as Grandmother Louise deserves much credit. These films regularly have "older" supporting characters to provide wisdom and advice to the younger ones, but, in this case, Shaw delivers a sincere, spirited, and forthright performance that is really quite good. She is on par with Susan Hogan, who appears in many Hallmark movies as the "older" mother, grandmother, etc. And Luke Roessler, as the orphan Troy, really ACTS as opposed to just reciting his lines as so many child actors do in these movies. His performance is very nuanced and natural, making his part enjoyable to watch rather than annoying. The direction is very good and the settings are attractive - professional looking and detailed. No cut-the-cost cheapness here. This movie really generates a warm and satisfying feeling for the Christmas season, particularly because of the four leads and the interactions between their characters that are so genuinely and well played. Nicely done and worthy of repeat viewings to keep you in the Christmas spirit.
