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Of all the low-budget, mass-produced Christmas specials out there this one stands out. The Christmas Switch feels like like an original story. The acting is mediocre at best, but the story is actually watchable. This movie has a good message and good characters for a Christmas special. I would recommend this if you're looking for decent Christmas specials.

Christmas has always been my favourite time of year, as it means lots of family time and reliving the nostalgia of singing and listening to carols, watching Christmas films and animations, playing festive games and opening presents. It will always be dear to my heart and nothing will ever change that for the world.

'The Christmas Switch', seeing it as someone who wanted to see a different festive film other than the ones watched every year, is never going to be one of my favourites or one of the timeless festive films. Did find it to not be exactly great and that there are flaws. 'The Christmas Switch' is though a more than watchable film and avoids some, though not all, of the traps that other Christmas films have fallen into. One of the better new Christmas films seen recently.

As to be expected, the story is predictable and has very few surprises, a lot of easily telegraphed scenes here. Occasionally the pace drags.

It is not without its cheesy and schmaltzy moments as well and some of the acting is really not much to write home about.

However, 'The Christmas Switch' is a decent looking film, with some lovely scenery especially. The music provides some affectionate nostalgia and is pleasant to listen to, while the direction avoids being too routine. Didn't find myself irritated by the characters at least and wasn't bored.

Despite the predictability, 'The Christmas Switch' has its heart in the right place and has a sweet and relevant message that is easily relatable and didn't feel preachy. There is definitely a festive spirit and the atmosphere is very difficult to dislike. Lots of warmth and charm here, with enough parts to warm and melt the heart, never does it feel too juvenile or mean-spirited and the sentimentality doesn't become too much. Other actors are better than average and has some appeal.

Overall, likeable and above average if nothing to be blown away by. 6/10 Bethany Cox