My Christmas film viewings over-time have been a very mixed bag. With some surprisingly good hits, where regardless of how predictable they are succeed in being full of charm, warmth and heart so succeeding in being light-hearted and undemanding fun. But also some quite big misses, where the characters are not likeable, everything is forced and shallow with implausibility too in some of the worst cases, the acting and writing being weak and basically with just nothing to them.
Despite being a long way from perfect or being a complete hit, 'Charlie's Christmas Wish' is thankfully closer to the former category if not quite. Certainly not a film to humbug on, despite the low rating. As far as the Christmas films seen overtime go, 'Charlie's Christmas Wish' is somewhere around high middle, which is not too bad a position to be in actually. Especially considering how much of a mixed bag some recently seen Christmas film viewings have been. Expectations were mixed, but the execution was better than expected.
'Charlie's Christmas Wish' isn't perfect. It is slow going at times, especially to begin with which takes a little too long to set up. It is also on the sappy side on occasions, which is a danger with films like this, especially in the final act which is a little too heavy on the sugar.
Perhaps there could have been less characters, with the film struggling at first to balance a fairly large number of characters in a short space of time.
There is a lot that is good that helps make 'Charlie's Christmas Wish' well above average, well meaning and charming. It pleases visually, lovely festive locations attractively and never drably or garishly shot. The music is pleasant enough and doesn't overbear or intrude too much, even if there is little memorable. The direction is sympathetic yet assured. The script doesn't get too cheesy or sentimental and does have a more natural flow when it becomes more settled.
On the whole, the story is not too heavy while taking itself seriously and is both warm-hearted and has a light touch when necessary. It is also very honest and moving, while not laying it on too thick with any messaging. The characters were engaging and relatable, the film doing a great job making one appreciate the work of vets and the military in difficult situations. Charlie is absolutely adorable and a true inspiration and the human cast give solid performances that are in good keeping with the film's tone.
In conclusion, well above average and well executed though doesn't succeed in everything. 7/10.
