Throughout my whole Christmas film completest quest undertaken since late 2019, an interesting quest but very mixed one, there was never the mentality of expecting a classic or the film in question to be flawless. Something that was never managed with Hallmark's and Lifetime's output in particular. There was however always the expectation of seeing a film where one can see at least some effort rather than merely cash-in level.
A distinction that does not belong to 'A Gift Wrapped Christmas' in any way. It is not quite a Christmas classic, but out of the films seen between then and now (which have been very hit and miss) 'A Gift Wrapped Christmas' is easily among the best faring and quite a pleasant surprise for a premise that could have gone either way. With almost everything done remarkably well and only a couple of things done imperfectly which was not unexpected in a way.
Other than the expected predictability, 'A Gift Wrapped Christmas' weak link is the ending. Rather abrupt and hasty, and yet another ending to feel too neat.
However, the film looks great. It's not too drab or garish in photography, the editing didn't seem rushed or disorganised and the scenery has a real charm to it. Most of the soundtrack is nostalgic and appealing to listen to, capturing the festive spirit well. Have seen a lot of over-scored Christmas films, but that's not as much the case here.
Script just about avoids being corny and saccharine, with it never coming over as awkward, and the story is mostly very engaging, easy to be uplifted by and heart-warming. Not to mention quite poignant. Did like the characters too and they came over as more real than characters for most recently seen Christmas films (for instance Hallmark has an annoying tendency to exaggerate character flaws).
Gwen in fact was quite refreshing, easy to root for from the start and that and her positive role model-like quality stayed. It helps too that she is played perfectly by Meredith Hagner, who has a lot of positive energy and also nuance when needed while not making Gwen too perfect. All the acting is very good and so is the chemistry. Relationships develop at a realistic rate and not given short shrift.
In conclusion, very well done. 8/10.
