Christmas Beneath the Stars

Not sure if it was bad writing, or bad acting, or just bad. But got 3 stars for being something that kids could watch without needing to change the channel.

The story is very much like Christmas Land all the way through. I think there's another also but can't think of it.

The climatic double secret is clumsy on both ends.

The acting is barely fair. There might have been a little chemistry between the leads.

Even though the place was supposed to be a little run down, the sets and props were obviously budget. For instance, the town Christmas tree was pretty small.

Supposedly set in Alaska, around Christmas. Where's the cold? Snow? Darkness? And what's with the green leaves on maple trees? It's all just too much to take. The 'B' list Canadian cast tries, but the direction and script make that an uphill battle. This film is filler for holiday cable schedules.

Setting is all-important when supposedly in the bush of Alaska. Where's the darkness? When there is light, there is no Aurora. I loved how the horse tripped over the cotton blob of snow. I feel for the actors having to pretend it's winter when there's obviously no signs of winter, but then again, the acting was as mediocre as the fake Alaska. Oh yeah, open windows in winter while they're sitting around a table? And who drinks hot chocolate when it's warm? Someone should have actually visited Alaska before releasing this sad and laughable movie. Hannah and her aunt should have stayed in Sacramento.

Something must be wrong with me as I actually enjoyed this movie. I guess it's because it doesn't follow the typical holiday movie scenario of beautifully decorated homes, baking cookies, Christmas tree lighting in the town square etc., etc. I'm so bored with all of that. I liked these characters and that's where a lot if my enjoyment comes from.