One should never expect classic status from a Lifetime film. Actually find a good deal of them watchable and have been pleasantly surprised by enough of their Christmas output. They are inconsistent and have done a fair share of unimpressive work, including their Christmas films, but it has been interesting seeing them for completest sake. Which was my main reason for seeing 'Christmas in Louisiana', as well as loving the holiday so much.
2019's 'Christmas in Louisiana' is neither one of Lifetime's best or worst, both Christmas and as an overall whole. If to land it in any category it would for me be in the average middle one when it comes to talking about their variable festive output, with a number of major good things but also a number of equally major bad things. So a bit of a mixed opinion here on 'Christmas in Louisiana' even when more or less knowing what to expect.
'Christmas in Louisiana' has its virtues. Jana Kramer is very charming and alluring in her role and makes her character likeable and interesting. Dee Wallace and Barry Bostwick also shone, bringing fun and sincerity to their parts, they are also equally endearing and their dynamic was the most believable by far. Most of the acting actually was above average, with one exception which will be come onto later. Some parts are heart-warming and have a nice charm.
It is an attractive looking film, especially the scenery. The music had pleasant moments.
However, there are drawbacks. Do absolutely agree about the criticisms in regard to Percy Daggs III, who came over as unintentionally goofy and quite annoying. Also about the practically non-existent and totally wrong chemistry between him and Kramer. The characters are a mixed bag, really liked Sarah, Doris and Timothy. Luke however was annoying and difficult to take seriously and the rest seemed underdeveloped.
Did find too much of the story on the dull and padded side, doing nothing new with familiar ground. Charm and heart come in spurts, but too much of the film is bland and erratically paced. It has too many subplots and under-develops almost all of them, especially the central romance, so there is a sense of trying too much, but the basic story felt too over-stretched and thin. The ending is too pat and too hastily wrapped up. The script can be pretty corny and has too much schmaltzy froth. The direction gets the job done but with not much distinction.
Overall, a bit mixed here. 5/10
