I love Hallmark movies, I love the predictability, the Christmas where all is merry and bright, the Christmas staples we expect from Hallmark snowmen, snowball fights, sledding, baking together, the love of Christmas that shines through the reality of life, the chance to bask in Christmas cheer.
This movie "Cheerful Christmas" aka "Countdown to Christmas" gave us none of that. Sure they made snowmen but it was forced and awkward.
The script was weak, most of the acting was bad, there was nothing endearing or even interesting about this turkey.
The plot involves best friends running a party planning business which is a recurring theme with Hallmark. But sorry, as business owners Lauren and Colleen are unprofessional, childish and totally annoying.
The actors:
Lauren, played by actress Erica Deutschman, was nothing but childish and annoying, the girl can't act. Painful to watch her pitiful, awkward attempts to bring her character alive.
James, played by actor Chad Connell was fine, he did a great job, but there was no chemistry and no reason for him to fall for annoying Lauren. He made a valiant attempt to act with Deutschman, but it's hard when an actress gives you nothing to work with. He was the only bright spot in a very bad movie.
Colleen played by actor Tianna Nori, poor girl, she was given a nothing part, Colleen is rarely present, had no character and added nothing to the plot. I really can't rate her performance.
Maybe some of the minor characters did good jobs, but they were so overshadowed by the really terrible performancs by Deutschman that I just can't rate them.
I watched the whole movie thinking that it had to get better. Boy was I mistaken.
I have seen hundreds of Hallmark movies and this is the first time that I have to tell potential viewers, don't waste your time.
