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This movie, about a young boy named Julian, is a masterpiece!

I am very surprised by how much I enjoyed it. First of all, it is a Netflix movie. Second, it is mainly for children. And third, it is Norwegian. These reasons are typical for not having the best movies, but The Snow Sister stands out with its handful of qualities.

While the themes and commentary are simple, the movie excels with its handling of the beautiful and emotional story due to several elements. The pacing is almost perfect, the editing is fantastic, the dialogues feel mature, planned, and appropriate, and the actors do great, especially Celina Meyer Hovland (as Hedvig). I love her energy, and I appreciate that she does not do too much out of her role. The main actor, Mudit Gupta (as Julian), is not as good but does worthy. But there is more that elevates the experience. The score is absolutely amazing, which I am a sucker for, and I could listen to it every day. The visuals are great as well, much because of the good camerawork and nice visual effects. Speaking of the story, it is so much to say about it because it manages to be beautiful, tragic, warm, and dark simultaneously. This makes the experience an emotional ride that can touch everybody's hearts.

In conclusion, this is a surprising masterpiece. Despite being a children's movie on Netflix, it excels with perfect pacing, mature dialogues, strong performances, and exceptional score and visuals. It beautifully balances beauty, tragedy, warmth, and darkness, making it an emotional journey for all viewers.

Snow Girl (2024) is a heartwarming holiday film that beautifully balances themes of loss, hope, and the magic of Christmas. The story follows a young boy struggling with grief, whose family is weighed down by a tragic loss. Just when it seems the joy of the season has faded, he meets a lively girl in a red coat who helps him rediscover the spirit of Christmas.

The film's visuals are enchanting, especially the girl's festive, glowing home, which adds to the magical atmosphere. The boy's journey toward healing is deeply moving, and the film's message about finding hope in dark times resonates long after the credits roll.

With its blend of warmth and mystery, Snow Girl is a perfect holiday watch that reminds us of the power of belief, joy, and healing.

First of all, allow me to review some other reviewers: If you are "not in the mood for gloomy/sad" films for christmas or that christmas movies should be cheerful, then your review here is pointless: I'm not placing a review on red paint stating I actually wanted my walls blue either. A review should be about the film, not about a mistake the viewer made.

Having said that, this movie is outstanding and diverse. The score fits the fabulous scenery and sets that were created and makes it a joy for the eyes as well as the heart.

All actors did a good job in this, but the kids in this movie have no freaking business acting so well at this age. From the main actors to their best friend and little sister, all 4 of them were great at not only portraying the emotions, but showing them as children their age would show them, the only exception being some profound wisdoms the main character obtains and explains in the film, but that is an intended deviation due to the plot of the movie. It's clear the actors got the right instructions from the director.

The story takes great artistic freedom when it comes to events happening in it, but not an inch of fantasy when it comes to the realness of the emotions portrayed. It makes for a fine balance.

This film makes me proud and thankful for the dialogue that can be held around themes like grief nowadays.

The Snow Sister begins with deep emotional tugs. You can feel the sadness in the characters. The actors do a great job conveying the grief and melancholy that consumes them, in spite being surrounded by a wonderful holiday background. The contrast that Julian finds in meeting Hedwig is perfectly warm and comforting. There is just enough disconnect in Julian that shows he's dealing with deep loss and loneliness. Hedwig inspires him to smile and open up to the joy of the season, as well as a new budding friendship. Both of these young actors were perfect. I was so moved by their display of emotions. The setting was also picture perfect. I felt the chill of the Nordic winter, but was warmed by the quaint village scenes plotted with old Norse and Germanic charm. As well as, Christmas decor and classic Yule festives.

As the story moves forward and the friendship between the two central characters(Julian and Hedwig) grows , it's filled with those innocent pure moments of youth. You start to feel the importance of this connection and how these two young beings were brought together on some other spiritual level. Slowly, bits are revealed and the depth of each of their characters is given light. Hedwig in her boisterous joyful nature and Julian in his guarded sullen sweetness. The delivery of small details to allow the viewer to build on what they suspect is behind these characters and their struggle, is well done. There is a great variance of light/dark throughout the film. Playing perfectly with all the characters and their interactions.

One may have the opinion this is a child's movie. In many aspects it is, but so much deeper. The central characters are children and the adults have limited supporting roles. The adult actors did a fantastic job, emanating the emotional theme of the story. Although , ultimately it's the children in the film who are developing an understanding of the importance of life and joy, no matter what losses are handed to us. I feel the reason Julian is able to connect with Hedwig is because of this youthful energy and openness. The adults are in deep dreary. The children are sad, but are able to find the inspiration and light which culminates into a very moving resolution for all of the characters.

This film, in my opinion is perfectly executed. It is a great reminder of the human spirit...both the physical and non-physical. It's a cathartic experience, dealing with loss, frienship, family and reconnecting with that love and jubilance that's within each and every one of us. Being celebrated amidst..which most feel.. is the merriest season of all, it's a reminder that even in our darkest times we can find joy and inspiration in each other.

Message from this wonderful Christmas movie: 'Keep loved ones close at heart at Christmas'. That's how they would have liked to be remembered. Loved and never forgotten. Remember the laughter, the joy, the good times and not the tears. Top marks for subtle storytelling, great directing, careful timing of shots, clever editing, and music with only the smallest hint of suspense that gradually grows on you. 'Opening a present is not as exciting as getting one, it is the suspense that should be enjoyed and prolonged' said the bright, cheerful girl in red, Hedwig.

Slowly, the story unravels and things appear that make you realise that not all are what they seem to be .... and yet, it is so charmingly filmed, that you at first think that it is just a good fun movie for kids. There is a lot more beneath the surface. You are swept along the fjord and scenic beauty of Norway, covered in sparkling Christmas snow icing. Each snowflake crystal is unique, do you know that? There are billions of snowflakes in a snowfall and yet, no two are the same.

A modern day love story as told by children with tons of snow love in their hearts for their young friends and family. Bring home Christmas Joy this Christmas. 🎄