I agree with the reviewer that GAF movies are hit or miss and that this one is a hit. In my opinion, GAF is still building. The success of any particular movie for theme depends on the quality of the stars and other creative staff. They have a few great actors and their movies tend to be winners. The newer faces have to this point not been at the same level.
Merritt Patterson and Daniel Lissing are true veterans in this genre and it shows. This particular pairing has good chemistry although not quite the witty banter seen in some movies. Good dialogue, but not sparkling. Patterson has always impressed me with her presence on the screen. Her presence is sophisticated as opposed to soft and fuzzy. Still she is definitely appealing.
This story follows familiar lines. The leads are thrown together to prepare for a Christmas gala. Molly's business is less than thriving and she needs this event. Carson is in the process of finding himself. Together they boost each other in their best qualities. I'm glad that the controlling Aunt is just that but not overly Scroogelike despite her reputation. She's tough but not mean or rude. Her side story contributes something to fill out the overall story. The activities are the usual - baking, decorating etc. The conflict near the end is another very common plot device and predictable.
Is there any significance that Patterson was the professional photographer in her Christmas movie 3 years earlier while Lissing plays that role here?
I enjoyed this move despite a story that doesn't stand out with any special highs or lows or surprises. Like many GAF movies, the level of dramatic tension is low but it is totally family friendly with little to cause controversy unless the lack of it is controversial in itself. I enjoyed it largely because of the relationship between the leads and upbeat atmosphere.
