There are two common premises stitched together here. Save the community center. Artist enters a work for a fellowship. The third thread is what brings the leads together and also gives some heart - brother needs to make a quilt for his sister's wedding. I can't say that I can think of many movies that follow that one.
Amy nearly ticked me off early because of course there had to be an early animosity between the leads. The way Amy reacted to the inspection report was childish and even irresponsible. But once Amy and Liam make the deal, that attitude disappears completely. This sudden change is not unusual in this type of movie.
The occasion for the setting is more about Lauren's wedding than Christmas, but Christmas is part of the wedding theme.
I have never seen either lead. I was impressed with the acting because it usually falls off with lesser known stars and Reel One Entertainment. I'm not saying it was the best of the year, but it was natural enough. There is some quiet chemistry between Ferelith Young and Harmon Walsh. Walsh's character is supposed to be a little stiff. The chemistry comes more in the support each character gives the other than in witty banter. I think that this support in several areas helped me stick with the story through the central section.
I am often rushing to get to the end by the time the conflict and climax come, but not this time. For one thing the sister's wedding gives the viewer a good moment, which was not unexpected. If you count that as a climax, you might say there are two. I liked the way everything was done from the wedding on.
BTW comment on make up. I wasn't impressed with Ferelith Young's makeup in some cases, especially the wedding. That is obviously a totally personal opinion.
