'Christmas in Tune' (2021)
Opening thoughts: It has been an interesting and worthwhile endeavour watching Hallmark/Lifetime etc Christmas films over the past four or five years, though a very inconsistent one. There was never the mentality of expecting a classic or the film in question to be flawless. Something that was never managed with pretty much all the films seen. There was always the expectation of seeing a film where one can see at least some effort rather than merely cash-in level. The former being obvious in most luckily.
'Christmas in Tune' is one of the Christmas films in the former category. 2021 was very hit and miss for Christmas films and for Lifetime, but there were some that were good and more and 'Christmas in Tune' is in that category and very much at the top even. It is not flawless certainly (no Lifetime film is), but it was very nicely done and immensely charming, one of the better faring 2021 Lifetime films and an example of a music-themed Lifetime film done right (it and Hallmark have varied with this type of story).
Bad things: Starting with the not so good things, for me the daughter and love interest subplot could have been a lot more interesting, as it did feel bland and also a bit awkward at times.
Also thought that some of the pacing could have been tighter as some scenes drag on a little too much, and that the arguing was a bit overdone in the script.
Good things: On the other hand, a lot is good. Reba McEntire and John Schneider are engaging and likeable leads, especially McEntire. The supporting cast all perform with enthusiasm, especially Candice King. McEntire and Schneider have characters worth caring for and ones that are more than Lifetime cipher cliches, ones that go on a journey. Their chemistry is natural and genuine, with lots of charm, and is not underused or forced.
Production values are pleasing. It's not too drab or garish in photography, the editing didn't seem rushed or disorganised and the scenery has a real charm to it. Along with the two leads, the best aspect is the very catchy music that is often very beautiful and has energy whether subtle or bubbly. It's performed beautifully too. The dialogue has flow and doesn't get too cheesy or too schmaltzy and the story is charming and heart-warming on the whole with an ending that left me upbeat and welling up at the same time.
Concluding thoughts: Overall, nice film.
7/10.
