A Christmas Love Story

I tend to watch the Hallmark films to de-stress, so don't require anything with real depth. Usually I find Scott Wolf a weak actor and unfortunately one I have never warmed too but in this he has a little more depth, probably brought out by Director and supporting actor Eric Close (a more likeable actor of this genre).

Kristen Chenoweth gave an adequate acting performance and an excellent singing performance.

It was a good premise for a film with a really strong supporting cast but would have been lifted more by stronger leads.

It is one of beautiful surprises. For story and for voices, for Scott Wolf and Eric Close, for atmosphere and, more important, for the message. But, especially, for Kristin Chenoweth giving to her character lovely, inspired brillance. The delicate themes are well used, to. And the twist just works. A film about parenthood, vocation, music, Christmas. Not great but surprising, in good sense, in profound sense. A beautiful film about things real important. And Chistmas in the fair light of emotions and options embroidery.

Had I been in charge of the remote, I would not have picked this movie from the recording list, but saved it to watch after I'd worked through other titles. I'm not at all a fan of Kristin Chenoweth. Neither she nor Wolf are on my list of must see young and beautiful (or handsome) people. I've seen Chenoweth in other movies in this genre and I have not been impressed.

Was I wrong. I enjoyed this movie. The story had many well used elements, but I liked the way it was put together. I probably should have seen it coming, but I didn't anticipate the "twist" until the last minute. Wolf and Chenoweth connected OK. I also enjoy Christmas movies where professional artists give quality musical performances. I had no idea Chenoweth had a voice like that. (Then I day later, I saw her performing on PBS with a big choir, maybe Mormon Tabernacle?.)

I think that if I had been making this film I would have had Eric Close as the lead male instead of Scott Wolf. Don't get me wrong, Scott did a good job, but when you have Eric there and so lovely with those smiling eyes, why would you put him in the background? Kristin can be a bit Marmite for me, but she did well in this one as well and you can't deny her vocal range is fantastic.

The story is very sweet and takes a different tack to the usual romance at Christmas schtick. I really like the family dynamic, the twists, the blossoming romance for the younger generation as well and of course it's full of the seasonal things that make these films winners for me. I also love anything with a good, heartfelt, emotional song in it.

Sure to be watched again.

A proper movie. Good singing, great believable acting and excellent chemistry between all parties.