Saint Nick of Bethlehem

Each year I watch literally dozens of holiday favorites which I feel ground me in approaching the holiday season with an authentic connection to what I feel the holidays represent. We all experience a lot of things during the year and the mindset going into the end of the year can be at very different places. My experience is that being open to a wide variety of insights is very centering. St. Nick of Bethlehem was a wonderful way to spend an evening. I won't give spoilers as the experience of seeing them revealed left me covertly dabbing tears from my eyes. It is a wonderfully made local production.

I love movies based on true stories, and Saint Nick of Bethlehem is one that captivates and warms your heart. Inspired by Allen Smith, a real-life Santa Claus in central Pennsylvania, the film follows his journey from grief after losing his son to finding purpose by helping others. Set in Bethlehem, PA, the movie showcases local landmarks around Bethlehem and the Lehigh Valley which makes the movie all more special. The cast's chemistry brings a heartfelt emotion, delivering a story that makes you laugh, cry, and leave with love in your heart...and enough Christmas Spirit to light up the town. I will definitely be adding this movie to my yearly Christmas Movie watch list!

This heartfelt film beautifully captures Allen Smith's inspiring journey of turning personal tragedy into a story of hope and joy. Shot right here in Bethlehem, PA; the movie feels especially close to home, showcasing familiar sights that add a unique charm. My favorite moment was when Nick visited Boscov's-such a nostalgic and heartwarming scene! I love Boscov's! The cast delivers standout performances that bring the story to life with authenticity and emotion. With its touching narrative, stunning local backdrop, and message of resilience, this film is a must-see. It reminds us of the power of love, generosity, and the magic of community.

This movie is proof you don't need a giant budget or incredible special effects to move an audience emotionally. I'm a cinephile - period. While this movie checks all the boxes of a holiday classic like A Christmas Story or Elf, it also does something unlike most holiday movies, even the excellent ones rarely do - it captures the heart. This is the best writing I've seen since Manchester by the Sea. This movie has the two things which are most important: Good writing (character development) and sublime acting. You want to see a great movie? Go see this one. It'll make you laugh, cry, and clap.

I was at the premiere of this movie and I can say this is the perfect holiday movie. The entire sold out appreciative audience agrees with me. This heartwarming film, based on a true life story, is sweet, funny, sometimes heartbreaking, and inspiring. It takes us from a dark period in Nick's life through many coincidences and changes to a satisfying conclusion. (And it even involves a reindeer) Great for the whole family. Daniel Roebuck leads a very talented cast. Shot in historic Bethlehem,PA, the location is the perfect place to set a Christmas film. If you are looking for a warm and well produced holiday film, I highly recommend it.