Christmas with You

Starring Freddie Prinze, Jr. And Aimee Garcia (from television's Lucifer), this lovely Christmas rom-com does not break any new ground but it has a screen presence for its solid script, consistent plot and pacing and smooth delivery. Aimee Garcia plays a famous singer who has settled on replaying her past hits but is in need of a new song. She decides to respond to a young girl's fan who wishes to meet her. Based on the movie's opening credits, Aimee Garcia wrote and sang the opening song "Sweet and Spicy." It is everything audiences expect from a fun Christmas holiday movie. A perfect complement to a plethora of Christmas movies.

Watched it because haven't seen Freddie Prince Jr much since the 90's so - although this type of movie is totally not my thing - thought why not give it a go for relaxed easy viewing which is what I was looking for and exactly what it served. Although the whole film is all incredibly cute, lovely, happy, Xmas lights everywhere, cheesy music etc - all things that are absolutely not my thing - I just enjoyed it. It's basically just a nice movie and sometimes it's refreshing to just watch something nice. I also felt the actors all had fun with their roles and that really effervesced warmth from the screen. Found myself watching with a smile. Will put on for my niece over Xmas she'll love it.

Angelina (Aimee Garcia) is a popular pop star who is now feeling her age. She needs a new song for an event but is drawing a blank as far as inspiration goes. She sees a video of a young fan, Cristina (Deja Monique Cruz), whose birthday wish is to meet her. Empathizing with Cristina's longing for her departed mother, Angelina decides to grant the girl's wish.

Cristina's father, Miguel (Freddie Prince Jr), is a music teacher who happens to be composing a song that piques Angelina's interest. They develop feelings for each other while collaborating on the song.

This is another tropey, thus predictable, story. But there is something comforting about watching a familiar story unfold. It's like watching different versions of The Nativity, A Christmas Carol, Les Miserables, etc. Each version brings a different take on a classic tale.

This version of the aging-celebrity-finds-inspiration-and-love trope is brought to life by a likeable cast. It was a treat to see Freddie Prince Jr again. The process of composing a song got me engaged as it made me curious about the finished product which did not disappoint.

All in all, it made me feel good, which was what I was hoping for when I watched it.

Wow, some quality acting with Freddie and the actress from Lucifer who are layer the pop star. Definitely a cut above most of these cheesy Christmas movies. Don't get me wrong-I love them-but this had more authentic relationships and enjoyed the quince dance and Latin traditions. The daughter was adorable and loved the dad/daughter relationship. Catchy music. Good hearted jokes at some of our celebrity culture vs what's real. Still very predictable but who cares. Just a fun and heartwarming and entertaining escape! I hope they make more of these Christmas movies. Some are just so bad, they're not watchable.

Christmas With You is a pretty typical feel-good Christmas drama romance. But it's effectively sweet, romantic, and likable. Freddie Prinze Jr. Is still Freddie Prince Charming (Sorry I couldn't resist). But seriously, he seems like such a likable guy in real life, and his character in this movie is definitely likable. He's a good guy and a good dad. Aimee Garcia and Zenzi Williams make a great team and bring some quality acting skills to this simple little movie. All in all, this movie's target audience should definitely enjoy what they're given. The storyline is interesting and it's written well. As a music guy myself, I liked that writing a song was at the center of the story.