GAC Family have literally just about been formed, but it's not faring too badly. Sure, there have been misfires, such as 'The Great Christmas Switch'. There have also been winners, primarily 'Much Ado About Christmas'. Despite not being a fan of Cindy Busby (at all), Sam Page has done a sizeable amount of above average and even good films and performances. The premise did sound quite cute, though nothing out of the ordinary. Was very willing to give it a fair chance.
'Joy for Christmas' did not live to its name for me, so it wasn't a joy. Actually found it very lacking in it and one of GAC Family's weaker films. The failure does not lie with Page or with the supporting cast, it's the script and story that sink the film and anybody who isn't a fan of Busby are not going to have their feelings converted (strengthened probably). 'Joy for Christmas' isn't awful or a complete mess, but if you want to see whether a newly formed company has been capable of good yet 'Much Ado About Christmas' is a much better bet.
The best aspect is Page, who is very likeable and easy going, not overplaying his role while not phoning in either. The supporting cast on the whole are fine too, with Erin Boyes bringing charm and vigour as the sister.
Did think also that 'Joy for Christmas' didn't look too bad, some very nice scenery here and photographed with care.
However, Busby comes over as much too manic and nothing looked natural about her performance, like she was trying too hard and making everything bigger than needed. Her character could have had more personality and development, while the romantic chemistry is too underused and low key to convince. There is too much of everything to do with the stepbrother, who is an over the top annoying caricature overacted to cartoonish effect by Madison Smith, and it leads to a conflict that is very forced and hasty. Would have liked more development to Page's character, he is the most interesting character in the film and progresses very believably but there could have been more of how he converts and have it happen more gradually.
On the whole, the story is very dull, very predictable in pretty much every area, lacks charm and takes itself a little too seriously. Also thought that it tried to do too much and that it needed to balance its elements a lot better (i.e. Less of the stepbrother, more romance). The script is stilted and also a real cheesefest that is really quite embarrassing to listen to later on. The ending is beyond unrealistic, with everything being resolved too easily, too neatly and in too rushed a manner. The music could have been used less and is forgettable and the direction is routine.
Concluding, rather lacklustre. 4/10.
