My Christmas film watching and reviewing quest that began at the end of last year has been interesting. That is not to say that every film seen was great, or even good. The overall quality of the quest was actually very variable, as has been the case with a vast majority of my completest quests over the years. Haven't had any quest/project where every film seen has been consistently good or consistently bad, a lot of both extremes of good and bad and quite a lot in between.
That was certainly the case with this quest. Of which 'Help for the Holidays' was actually one of the standouts. In a good way, actually was not expecting to like the film as much (with it sounding slightly predictable and cheesy) as it actually transpired. Moderate expectations exceeded if you will. Is 'Help for the Holidays' devoid of flaws? No, and few films are (actually have had minor issues with some of the films rated 10/10, but overlooked because of everything else being so amazing). As far as all the recently seen Christmas films go though, 'Help for the Holidays' to me was one of the best and that is saying a fair bit.
Perhaps 'Help for the Holidays' could have done with more surprises, so that it didn't feel "know exactly what happens when you go along" or as convenient.
Also found Dave on the annoying and contrived side, but maybe that's just me. Am not blaming John Brotherton who does well as the character, but more how the character's written.
'Help for the Holidays' is beautifully filmed however, it's not drably lit, is cohesively edited and the locations are made good use of despite it being obvious that it was not shot at Christmas time. The film doesn't make the mistake that most recently seen Christmas films have done of having over-used and overpowering music, it is lovely to listen to and has a festive feel. The dialogue doesn't have too much cheese and doesn't fall into schmaltz, it's amusing and sometimes movingly delivered with spirit.
It was very capably directed too, not allowing the film to drag and always making the drama and such clear. The story is predictable, but is very light-hearted and heart-warming with more character depth and likeability than most recently seen Christmas films. There is a lot of charm and it really does live up to its well meaning title. Actually found myself liking the characters and their personalities and didn't find myself frustrated by any behaviours or questioning motivations (have seen too many holiday films that have been guilty of those). 'Help for the Holidays' is well acted, with two immensely appealing lead performances from Summer Glau and Eva LaRue. Both have grown a lot as actresses.
Overall, lovely film and enjoyed it so much more than thought, worrying that it would not be my cup of tea. Speaking as somebody who has always been encouraging with reviewing but also firmer over the years with ratings and putting opinions across, liking films etc. of every genre and decade. 8/10
