My Christmas Guide

The premise of a romance between a guide dog trainer and the client hasn't been overused yet. There was one not too long ago but it focused more on the dog while this movie is focused on the trainer and client. Trevor is resistant at first, but Peyton spends a lot of time with him and he comes around. And not just to the dog. I was surprised at how much personal time the trainer put in. The viewer learns along with Trevor about this process.

Amber Marshall is appealing as Peyton. Ben Mehl is crabby and put offish at least at first. They have decent chemistry together but quiet instead of sizzling.

Christmas movies always seem to benefit from a cute kid, and Trevor's daughter fills the bill. As is often the case, Ava Weiss as Annie has great chemistry with Marshall.

This Movie is Definitely a Dog Lovers Delight, and Probably a. Candidate for the Most Sentimental and Heartwarming Film of the Year.

Dog Lovers will Truly Enjoy watching the Canine Star of the Film, as they observe the Amazing and Extensive Training that is Required of a True Service Dog.

Heartland Fans will also Definitely Enjoy the Acting Capabilities of One of Hallmark's Finest Female Stars, as Amber Marshal Demonstrates an Immense Talent in her very First, but certainty not Last, opportunity as a Lead Actress in a Hallmark Film.

Finally, Everyone will Enjoy this Heartwarming and Sentimental Story of a Sight Impaired Individual, who is Blessed with a Remarkable Service Dog, and its Caring and Compassionate Trainer.

This Film is Guaranteed to Touch Your Heart, Bring a Tear to Your Eye, and Smile to Your Face, as You Enjoy nearly Two Hours of Beautiful and Touching Entertainment.

This year Hallmark introduced a bunch of new movies and characters, but I had trouble connecting. I am missing Danica McKellar, Candece Cameron, and others and for the most part I am missing true romance. "My Christmas Guide" opening was just normal, nothing special or different than any other Hallmark movie. Dialogues quickly become more catching, acting more real... it was magic, I was in!!! Yes, it is one line story, nothing exaggerated, all given in the right amount: acting, dialogues, places, scenes still a masterpiece (for this year at least..). Beautiful movie, (got a couple of tears at the end...)

I haven't been too impressed with the Hallmark holiday slate this season; not too many of the films really "grabbed" me. While some were pleasing time-passers, there weren't many that I'd be willing to watch again. However, for this film---yep, I'm impressed. I'm going to rate this as one of the five best Hallmark Christmas films for the 2023 season. Good plot, excellent casting, with a really appealing lead in Ben Mehl, who I hadn't seen before. I hope Hallmark uses him again. And another plus---authentic winter location shooting: none of that sad-fake-snow-shot-in-the-middle-of-summer this time around. Recommended.

Ben Mehl as Trevor plays a visually impaired father to Ava Weiss (Annie). They are wonderful together and very believable as father and daughter.

Ava is quite charming in her role and the father daughter bond feels real.

Since Ben Mehl is visually impaired in real life, he's obviously acquainted with many, if not all, of the issues brought up in the movie. The sincerity of the characters helped me really identify with the topic of dealing with a perceived limitation and how people can react negatively or positively.

I wanted to watch a movie with a dog (Max). I soon became so engaged in the movie that really didn't think about Max's part being somewhat on the dow low. He is adorable and seemed well suited to the movie. For this review I did try to find out about Max but couldn't find anything. I was curious if he's really a guide dog.

Amber Marshall (Peyton - guide dog trainer and love interest) is an animal lover in real life and it shows on screen.

Definitely a great family movie that would also be good backdrop for having healthy discussions about issues covered by movie. Especially bullying at school.