Silent Night, Lonely Night

"Silent Night, Lonely Night" is another drama that takes place at Christmas time. The holiday setting is what brings one of the principal characters to the story. That, and the dour doldrums some people have when they are alone at such times, are the main aspects that fit this into the genre of Christmas films. Otherwise, it's not one that most people would want to replay over the holiday season.

That's not to say this isn't a good film. Indeed, it is a very good drama about a very likely real life situation similar to what any number of people may have experienced. For that reason, it is a very good study in human emotions. It's a good drama about family tragedy, illness, fidelity and infidelity. It's a story about betrayal, loyalty, loneliness, guilt, forgiveness and temptation. Lloyd Bridges and Shirley Jones play the leads very well.

Being a heavy drama, the film's pace may put many people off. Especially younger, modern audiences who have been weened mostly on non-stop action movies. But, for those willing to sit through it, this movie will present a good picture of personal conflict in trying times of marriage. It really strikes at the meaning of the traditional marriage vow of fidelity in sickness and health, good times and bad, and for better or worse.