Don't let the title put you off. From the title, one would think that 'Crashing Through the Snow' could be very cheesy and corny. Did remind myself though that there are many Hallmark films with unappealing, corny titles, but actually the content of the film itself is more mature than it sounds. This did sound interesting and different, and with it being one of the better reviewed 2021 Hallmark films of an inconsistent year expectations were raised.
Those expectations were met on the whole. 'Crashing Through the Snow' did something different, which was really appreciated in a year where there was a good deal of tired executions of tired formulas, and did it very well a vast majority of the time. As far as the 2021 Hallmark films go, 'Crashing Through the Snow' is one of the best by quite some way, along with 'A New Year's Resolution' and 'As Luck Would Have It' (that one surprised me).
Will begin with the not so good. The ex-boyfriend character could have been better incorporated in the story perhaps, the role is a bit of a stretch in the context of the situation and is played a little too seriously.
Also thought that the final quarter was on the too rushed and tidy side.
However, 'Crashing Through the Snow' is near-uniformly well acted, especially Amy Acker and Brooke Nevin as the most real characters and Acker and Warren Christie work well together. The characters mostly don't come over as excessively over the top, there is awkwardness but it fits with the tone, and they are not dull either. The dramas and conflicts feel realistic and relatable and don't come over as too sentimental or forced.
It looks good and the music at least fits and sounds appealing. The script is funny and light-hearted while also having a serious edge when needed without going overboard in that. The story doesn't come over as formulaic, structurally it's unique for the 2021 Hallmark films with very little typical or recycled about it (by Hallmark standards that is). It is warm-hearted and has a liveliness, without going overkill. There is some awkwardness but the conflicts and situation called for that. It is also heart-warming and never mean-spirited.
Overall, a surprising winner and much better than the title suggests. A title that doesn't do it justice. 8/10.
