8.1 stars.
Has one of the highest IMDB ratings I've seen for a Hallmark Christmas movie. I went into this with high hopes, but low expectations.
Opens with a mother named Christine (Lenz) and two children, mom is really down on her luck. A chain of several unfortunate events befalls her, and in addition her ex-husband is a dead-beat with anger issues, who doesn't pay child support.
I must add that he circumstances do not evoke any sympathy from me. The fact that she is super gorgeous doesn't change my opinion. I feel that was the filmmakers intent, to make her seem pathetic. They succeeded.
As she is doing all she can to make ends meet, Christine ends up at the right place and right time to perform an heroic act and be a good samaritan. Everything changes for the better due to this pivotal moment.
Jason (Reardon) is introduced, he's back in town to help his grandparents. He runs into Christine, they don't hit if off very well, but he's a very likable and intelligent fellow.
The rest of the story is full of secrets, missed opportunities, coincidences, more secrets, strange circumstances, more coincidences, and on and on. The constant expectation was exciting, and there were so many wonderful reveals, and heartwarming scenes, which evoked such passion and joy.
Of the 30+ holiday films so far this year, this one is the champion for balance of romance, sentimentality, forgiveness, generosity, miracles, and Christmas charm.
'The Christmas Secret' is now on my very short list of yearly MUST see Hallmark films.
