Despite it not being one of the most inspired of titles, the premise did sound quite charming. Also saw 'Magical Christmas Shoes' for two other reasons. One was my love of Christmas. Two was that it was part of my Lifetime (and Hallmark) Christmas film completest quest, despite their 2019 output being such a mixed batch with some good, some mediocre at best and some somewhere between average and decent. A better standard than Hallmark's 2019 output.
'Magical Christmas Shoes' to me was one of the good ones. Was a bit unsure about it at the start, not uncommon with Lifetime Christmas films in the better faring category, but once the film started to warm up and find its footing it got a lot better. From personal view, 'Magical Christmas Shoes' when seeing it some months back was among the better 2019 Lifetime Christmas films quite easily, better than most of their films this year and certainly better than much of Hallmark's 2019 Christmas output.
The film does start off on the slow and formulaic side.
Some of the dialogue is also pretty bad early on too, sounding a little stilted and corny.
However, as said, once it got going (and it did so not too far in) 'Magical Christmas Shoes' got a lot better. Visually, it looks good in particularly the scenery which is nicely complemented by the photography. The music is pleasant and not intrusive, not always the case with Lifetime (even more Hallmark) films. The script is far from perfect, but is sweet and raised a number of smiles while not being too heavy on the sentiment. The story isn't perfect to begin with, but is mostly very charming and warm-hearted with an authentic atmosphere.
While the characters are familiar in type, my way of trying and failing to avoid the word cliched, they to me had personality and ones that didn't come over as stale or annoying. The central relationship didn't feel rushed, so less of a chance of out of the blue motivations, or take too long to unfold, and was amiable. Erin Karpluk and Damon Runyan are fine in the lead roles and well supported by everyone else.
Overall, well done and charming. 8/10
