Expectations were mixed to relatively positive prior to watching. Absolutely love watching dancing, despite being no good at it myself, and love even more so 'The Nutcracker' (have done ever since the age of six). Hallmark did do a fair share of good Christmas films in 2021 and 'Sugar Plum Twist' had one of the best premises of that year, one of Hallmark's most ambitious and is different. Am however not a fan of Jamie Gray Hyder and never warmed at all to her or her character on 'Law and Order: Special Victims Unit'.
'Sugar Plum Twist' really impressed me. As far as 2021 Hallmark Christmas films go (which was a very up and down batch), it is one of the best (as well as one of the most ambitious and refreshing) and makes the most of its premise, the execution not being too conventional. It is not perfect, with the flaws being a couple of the usual suspects, but there is a huge amount to like here, absolutely loved the clever twist on a favourite and Hyder surprised me in a good way.
Will agree absolutely that the protagonist's sudden negative reaction to being defended was far too extreme and completely undeserved.
Maybe Rachel DeBenedect overdoes it as a character that has few redeeming qualities for most of the film and for reasons not clear. She does become a good deal better when the character softens and in a change of heart that is much more realistic than most changes of heart in Hallmark films, as it doesn't feel as rushed and it is movingly done.
As said, Hyder really surprised me in an engaging performance as an identifiable and inspiring character that is the complete opposite of her over-zealous, opinionated and cold character on 'Special Victims Unit'. Laura Rosquer charms too and they have great chemistry together. The acting on the whole is fine and the interaction always connected and never distant or uncomfortable looking. The characters are written realistically and in on the whole a not too perfect or overly flawed way (other than Miss Kat in regard to the latter), was very inspired by the two leads.
It is a good looking film, particularly the scenery. Regardless of the lack of authenticity, it is still beautiful as is the decor. The music has verve and variety and the dancing is full of energy and grace in very clever choreography that does so well embracing Latin dance and culture. The climax is enough to inspire anybody in the performing arts. The script is not too cheesy or schmaltzy and flows well. The story is very heart-warming and charming, with the social issues being really relatable and handled tactfully. The diversity is also done tastefully and to me its increase in recent Hallmark films been more than welcome, quite surprising that including it has become a criticism when those complaining about it now were complaining about there not being enough of it before.
Overall, very nicely done. 8/10.
