Most modern Christmas movies are either fantasies about romance found unexpectedly or about troubled families whose members discover the true meaning of Christmas. Very few have different or original plots. I can't think of another film that has focused so completely upon the plight of a single mother struggling to raise three children after her husband deserts them.
"A Christmas Wish" is a true drama that doesn't have to be set at Christmas or in any particular season. But the seasonal theme adds something to the film. That's significant in providing hope for a happy ending, where this film digs deeply into the intensity and stress of the woman giving her all so that her family can survive.
The film has some light and amusing scenes, with some witty dialog and funny moments. But it also has intense drama. There are sad scenes, depressing situations and incidents that seem almost hopeless for Martha Evans. Some people may not appreciate this as a Christmas movie to cherish and watch in succeeding years. But others may find it especially appropriate.
Evans is a very believable single parent under extreme duress. Kristy Swanson gives a superb performance in that role. It was deserving of an Emmy nomination but the Emmy's seem almost to have a bias against Christmas themed films. Perhaps it's because each year brings out one to a few movies that appear to be just slight moderations of well-worn themes. And Kirstin Dorn is tremendous as the very intelligent and wise young Mel Evans. The rest of the cast all give good performances.
This is a very good drama about a life that far too many women have experienced, and that has too seldom been shown in film. For that reason alone, this is a movie some may want to keep and replay in years to come. It's also a film about hope and perseverance and good rising from dedication, sacrifice and love for family and children. That's what makes it an especially different and memorable Christmas film.
Here are some favorite lines from the film.
Mel Evans, "Why do you call the car Jack?" Martha Evans, "Because it rhymes with Cadillac."
Joe Hopkins, "Gotta help heathens once in a while, or he wouldn't have a congregation."
Lola Metcalf, "Do you know why most women would rather have beauty than brains?" Martha Evans, "Why?" Lola, "Because most men can see better than they can think."
Martha Evans, "Okay, how do you want your eggs?" Les McCallum, "From a chicken." Martha, writing on her order pad, "Right! No fish eggs. Uh, how do you want 'em?" Les, "On a plate." Martha, "Raw?" Les, "Over, easy."
Martha Evans, "Well, being single's not so bad." Joe Hopkins: I'm not single. I'm romantically challenged."
Lola Metcalf, "Here you go (mumbling in a low tone) tall, dark and available."
Lola Metcalf, "In fact, you're the first woman I've seen him take an interest in." Martha Evans, "The destitute mother of three?" Lola, "Yeah, go figure."
Lola Metcalf, "Side of gravy's comin' up." Frank, "I need more butter." Lola, "You want some heart medicine to go with that cholesterol?"
