Der Weihnachtswettbewerb

I don't know what it is, but I have always had a soft spot for Eric Mabius since I first saw him in Ugly Betty, but after the first 20 minutes of this film, I had to turn it off. He seems to have lost the spark and not just because he's looking a bit baggy around the eyes. The situation itself is silly and I can't believe the lead characters could ever resolve their differences. It's full of actors that have been in hundreds of these seasonal films and I didn't think that they were going to add enough to warrant me watching any further.

Honestly, I'm getting tired of the daft festive films. Just give me a proper love story in a genuine setting or even some family fun. Stop setting up farcical storylines.

I won't rate it, as I didn't finish it.

These actors are badly cast together. No chesmitry at all. She is too tall for him. Not believable at all. And a sugar sweet, fake, phony, absurd, lidicrous, embarrassing ending.

I respect and enjoy the Spirit of Christmas as much as the the next person, but there's also a Spirit of Competition that was taken almost completely out!

There is always happy anticipation when Eric Mabius is cast in a movie..But something was missing in this film..First of all, Mr. Mabius looks a bit puffy and different from his usual appealing demeanor. Perhaps this viewer is in denial about the aging process, even in handsome movie heroes? His chemistry with Tricia Helfer was sadly very minimal She is taller than her leading man..and while there is reality in that concept..women may indeed be taller than their love interest, in this film the height difference only seemed to diminish Mr. Mabius and his heroic role further. The story was predictable as are most Hallmark holiday stories, and by this time in the month, it is often difficult to find one with an original plot. Tricia Helfer has a dazzling smile..She is lovely..Her voice is appealing..she exodus intelligence and strength..But in this film, the combination of the two leading actors was just not as exciting as it might have been. Eric Mabius deserves better material, more strength in his characters, less passive roles. This viewer always looks forward to seeing him in the next movie to come along.

Tricia Helfer and Eric Mabius are Hallmark regulars and are both excellent actors in their own right but also perfect for Hallmark movies and a great combi8nation. East and West Riverton are competitors in the annual Christmas decorating competition, Sarah and Liam are the two towns Mayors and both single, both being too busy to find love.

We all know where this is going and we're all happy to go along for the ride as they find each other and the two towns find a common goal.

Perfect Christmas loveliness.