Saint Nick of Bethlehem

I got to go to the premiere at the Roxy Theater in Northampton PA to see the movie Saint Nick of Bethlehem. It's rare nowadays to get a clean, family-friendly film to head into theaters and this was such a great family film. This movie is based on a true story and was very cool that they filmed right in Bethlehem! This film will definitely tug on your heart strings. The movie not only does that but also brings quite a bit of humor as well. Danny Roebuck did such a great job playing the main character Nick and he also co directed the film as well. I can't wait for this film to come to physical media!

This movie is proof you don't need a giant budget or incredible special effects to move an audience emotionally. I'm a cinephile - period. While this movie checks all the boxes of a holiday classic like A Christmas Story or Elf, it also does something unlike most holiday movies, even the excellent ones rarely do - it captures the heart. This is the best writing I've seen since Manchester by the Sea. This movie has the two things which are most important: Good writing (character development) and sublime acting. You want to see a great movie? Go see this one. It'll make you laugh, cry, and clap.

I love movies that are inspired by true stories. This is a true story inspired by Allen Smith, a real life Santa Claus in central Pennsylvania who after losing his son falls into a dark place. One thing that brings him out of it is doing good for others. He becomes the Santa Claus of his town and Saint Nick Of Bethlehem is about his story. A Christmas movie filmed in the Christmas city, Bethlehem PA, what can be better than that? This movie highlights familiar locations such as Kiffle Kitchen, St. Luke's Hospital, Hotel Bethlehem, the #1 historic hotel in the country to name a few. The cast works so well together bringing out great emotion. I love Movies where you both laugh and cry and leave the theater with a positive message. That is just what Saint Nick delivers! A wholesome, family friendly movie that will surely get you in the Holiday spirit, and we could all use that right about now.

Each year I watch literally dozens of holiday favorites which I feel ground me in approaching the holiday season with an authentic connection to what I feel the holidays represent. We all experience a lot of things during the year and the mindset going into the end of the year can be at very different places. My experience is that being open to a wide variety of insights is very centering. St. Nick of Bethlehem was a wonderful way to spend an evening. I won't give spoilers as the experience of seeing them revealed left me covertly dabbing tears from my eyes. It is a wonderfully made local production.

"Saint Nick's of Bethlehem" is a delightful holiday film that brings the magic of Christmas to life with authenticity and charm. Shot on location in the picturesque Christmas City of Bethlehem, PA, the film captures the warmth and beauty of the season with stunning visuals that transport audiences right into the heart of the story.

This heartfelt movie seamlessly blends humor, emotion, and faith-based themes, offering a story that will make you laugh, shed a tear, and walk away with a renewed sense of the Christmas spirit. Based on a true story, the film's relatability and sincerity make it stand out among holiday releases.

The performances are a highlight, with a wonderful cast that brings depth and heart to their roles. Directors Daniel Roebuck and Spencer Folmar deliver a story that is both compelling and inspirational, showcasing their dedication to creating meaningful, family-friendly entertainment.

"Saint Nick's of Bethlehem" is more than just a movie; it's an experience that celebrates community, faith, and the joy of giving. Whether you're a fan of holiday films or simply looking for a feel-good movie to enjoy with loved ones, this one is well worth your time.

-FPA.