Really did like the premise for 'My Christmas Family Tree', no make that love. It sounded so moving and you know a film does something right when its premise immediately connects with you even before watching like it did with me (more so than most of the 2021 Hallmark Christmas films). It, meaning the premise and the film itself, also connected with some close friends who regularly watch Hallmark, a couple of whom having been in this situation so it hit home for them.
'My Christmas Family Tree' wholly lived up to its premise and the high expectations had (actually did have higher expectations for it than most Hallmark Christmas films). While not a flawless film, it was very well done. Out of a very hit and miss year for Hallmark, 'My Christmas Family Tree' to me is a strong contender for the best Hallmark Christmas film for that year and certainly one of the best acted. Also one of their best Christmas outings in quite some time, as well as one of their most emotional and personal.
Will agree with those that say that it loses its way at the conclusion, which is underdeveloped and not particularly plausible. Due to everything with the DNA not adding up, and also thought that one clue was left too vague.
Everything else though is very good to great. It is very professionally filmed and the locations are simply beautiful. A lot of Hallmark's Christmas films suffer from being over-scored, meaning being too constantly used and too loud. That isn't so big a problem here. The script is a lot less cheesy and schmaltzy than most Hallmark Christmas films and did find it very sincere, very affecting and that it never sounded awkward.
Furthermore, that the story departed from the usual Hallmark Christmas film formula and took on a more serious, a more personal and more true to life situation. There is nothing cheesy or over-sentimental in how this subject is handled either, it came over as truly poignant, lovingly gentle and well meaning and also with a good deal of warmth and charm. Really did connect with the story emotionally. The characters were ones that were easy to care for and relate to. Aimee Teegarden is very charming and moving here and Andrew Walker is a strong sympathetic partner. Their chemistry is gentle and genuine, without being too low key. James Tupper stands out in support.
Summarising, very well done. 8/10.
