Natal Entre Vizinhos

Many times, the small screen imitates the big screen. For Hallmark's take on Christmas with the Kranks, check out the new release, Haul Out the Holly. And no, before you start cringing, the heroine's name isn't Holly. Lacey Chabert plays Emily, a woman who returns to the sanctuary of her childhood home to heal from a break-up over Christmas. Only, her parents have taken off on a spontaneous Florida vacation and have refused to stay behind to lend emotional support. At first, I thought they knew their daughter so well, their abandonment was one giant "recovery plan": by making her focus on the Christmas spirit, she'd forget about her broken heart and find herself. But no, they just went on vacation. Another plot point I found confusing: if Lacey wanted to be left alone over the holiday and not get immersed in cheer and festivities, why did she return to her small hometown that has an entire HOA dedicated to Christmas decorations and traditions? Did she really think she pass December by without a wreath or tree?

Haul Out the Holly has a very modern style of humor, so not everyone will be laughing until their sides hurt. The under-30 crowd probably will, as it has a theme that's very popular with the "young folks": make fun of rich, white people. Set in a wealthy Utah suburb, the bulk of the humor is dedicated to poking fun of HOA rules and the strictness of "Christmas cheer quotas". One woman bursts into hysterical sobs when she wins a cookie contest, one man measures the height of a nutcracker to see if it's up to the neighborhood standards, and there's a "Team Kringle" secret society that comes with a Santa hat, striped walkie talkie, and underground initiation.

If you're laughing at those little examples, you'll love this movie. If you've ever lived among a strict HOA and found it ridiculous, you'll be glad to release some tension and laugh at your former (or current) neighbors. I was very happy to see some familiar faces in the supporting cast. While everyone will look forward to "Ned Ryerson" (Stephen Tobolowsky) playing one of the gung-ho neighbors, I was thrilled to recognize Walter Platz, whom I watch every year in one of my favorite Hallmarks, Switched for Christmas. Honestly, he was the highlight of the movie for me. Give this over-the-top Christmas comedy a try, especially if you're watching it with your adult children who will probably love it.

Haul Out The Holly was funny and enjoyable for the whole family to watch together! Lacey and Wes were great together (funny, great chemistry and banter!) and the supporting cast added so much to the movie. The two surprise cameos were an added bonus! My only critique would be that I wish they let Melissa Peterman go full out funny. She was hilarious in Reba and Baby Daddy and with the Haul Out The Holly storyline, Melissa's trademark full out funny would've fit in well. Overall, I really enjoyed the movie and think the change up with Haul Out The Holly and Three Wise Men and a Baby storylines worked very well for Hallmark this year!

I love a cheesy Christmas movie but this was horrible. I can't believe I wasted an hour and a half of my life watching this. There was no "plot" and it was just terrible. I literally created an IMDB just to leave this review. The acting was bad (besides Gretchen Weiners), the plot/storyline was nonexistent and it was just bad. There are thousands of other Christmas movies to choose from, I would not waste time watching this one. This wouldn't even be a good movie for background/to fall asleep to. I can't even believe the people who filmed/directed this thought it would be good. Seriously, do not watch this movie. 10/10 do NOT recommend.

I think some low reviews are from viewers who took this movie way too seriously. It's supposed to be over-the-top and almost satire. Hallmark movies need to be approached with the proper attitude, especially the Holiday offerings. Don't expect award winning plots or acting. Sit back and just enjoy.

Wes Brown is funny, who knew? He is adorable in this movie. Lacey is charming as always. And Melissa Peterman, whom I usually loath, was also funny and made me almost like her.

So no, it's not Oscar worthy. But it is a fun romp. If all the little details aren't picked to shreds, examined, and found lacking by the plot police.

With Candace Cameron Brure dumping Hallmark, Lacey Chabert apparently takes over the title of Queen of the Hallmark Christmas movies, and if this is any indication, then let her reign carry on for awhile. Chabert has never seemed more relaxed playing a Christmas character and is really quite funny and good here. She is ably assisted by a fine supporting cast, particularly Wes Brown and the wonderful Melissa Peterman, both of whom are also very funny. The witty, sometimes hilarious, script is a benefit, too, but it only works because Chabert and the others are just so good in playing their parts. Nicely done and one film that will make you feel good during the holidays.