Natale in California: Luci della città

Since the last one was unexpectedly really good, I was looking forward to seeing this new one as well.

I've watched a handful of Christmas rom-coms and I found that the lines between really good Christmas movies and not good ones are quite thin. This 'A California Christmas' maintains the classic elements of a cheesy Cinderella story, at the same time ,it's not too fantasy like. The scenario seems more grounded; characters facing more realistic challenges.

I still don't like seeing some rather small quarrels treated so dramatic for the sake of the story arch (why don't they try talking out if they love each other?), but I guess that's also a staple of this type of film.

To compensate for that, the two main characters have an amazing chemistry! They really look they care for each other, and willing to compromise for their partner's happiness.

Oh, I love Manny as a comic relief, he does it so well! That's a bonus.

Definitely a step down from the first one. Very formulaic (especially the ending) and some very annoying scenes with Manny. The movie never felt like Christmas time despite the decorations.

You never know what to expect with a sequel, usually disappointing. California Christmas City Lights was fantastic. The story had a great pace and Lauren Swickard once again carried the film with her incredible talent. Her chemistry with her hubby is nice to see also. Sometimes you see actors and they have no chemistry and tanks the film or show.

David del Rio did not disappoint. So funny. Love the Brandy character.

Well written, well done!!

Maybe it was a mistake watching this right after the first one. It wasn't bad but somehow missed the charme of the first movie. They still had a storyline around the farm but that seemed pretty random too. At that point I started to get the vibe that Manny and the guy from Josephs old work were sublty going somewhere so it didn't make sense to me.

It's still a nice romance and I always enjoy sequels to find out what happened but it's not cheesy enough for a good christmas watch.

Just like last year, this is a great break from all the unbelievable crap going on in the world. It's great just kicking back and following Joseph and Callie on their city Christmas adventure. Fun, feel good holiday entertainment!