Merry Birthday, Happy Christmas

The movie would be good if the acting wasn't so bad. The male lead giggles to much. It's just so corny and it lacks any real romance or humor! In this day and age you think that something like this wouldn't make it to the screen. I think the male lead didn't really go well with the lead actress. He seems like a girlfriend! It just drags and nothing exciting happens! I love Christmas movies but this falls short! The interview part was really not good! It's like watching commercials! I try to finish watching a movie when I start it but it's very boring! Good thing it's late at night. I will go to sleep.

I tried. 14 mins and 12 seconds. I tried. The story line sounded fun and I enjoyed the beginning. Then, the man nervous giggled. And he never stopped. I really couldn't get past it. Until I saw the cubicles in the office. The set was terrible, the acting was so forced, the awkward silence.... I was waiting for a "cut". I'm out and I'm bummed - I love Christmas shows.

You know what is even worse? I tried to submit my review - see above - but IMBD said I needed to add 231 more words. I didn't watch enough of the move for 600 words. I'm not sure which is worse, the movie or me having to write this last paragraph to warn you that the movie is bad!

I love the way this movie starts off, with the main characters as kids, and brings us up to speed, so that we are watching present events unfold when the opening credits end. The female lead (Aeon Cruz) is fun and quirky, and although she does seem to over-act a bit at times, she does a good job portraying a typical conflicted Christmas movie heroin. This is definitely not an award-winning type of film, but it is certainly on par with most of the Christmas movies we are used to seeing throughout the holiday season. Kari White, who plays the main character's boss, is hilarious, and it looks like she clearly had fun playing her role. If you are in the mood for a feel-good rom-com to put you in the Christmas spirit, I would definitely say that "Merry Birthday, Happy Christmas" is worth a watch.

This film had a clever plot as reflected in the title. It was sweet and funny, and was the perfect blend of a traditional Christmas movie and a 90's rom-com. It seems that lately most Christmas movies are heavy on the romance but pretty light on the comedy, so when I find one that delivers on both, I tend to enjoy it more. Merry Birthday Happy Christmas definitely checked both boxes for me.

There aren't any a-list movie stars here, although it looks like the lead actress, Aeon Cruz, Has appeared in several other Christmas movies. The cast does a good job of delivering the comedy, and the tension when needed. There are some pretty funny supporting performances. And, fun fact but not a spoiler: Kevin Maginnis who plays the dad, is the guy who went viral for losing more than 50 pounds after eating nothing but McDonald's for 100 days.

"Merry Birthday, Happy Christmas" is a delightful film that beautifully blends themes of holiday cheer, personal growth, and emotional connection. With a gentle pace, it explores the complexity of relationships and the significance of celebrating life's milestones. The performances are sincere and engaging, drawing viewers into the characters' world, while the cinematography creates a cozy, festive atmosphere. The film's subtle yet powerful storytelling resonates long after the credits roll. A perfect choice for those seeking a feel-good, thought-provoking movie that captures the true spirit of the season.