The basic synopsis may sound quite formulaic and not much new, but when hearing and reading about the film, 'Dear Secret Santa' actually did sound like it was trying to do something different with a premise that may come over as typical to some. Tatyana Ali has been watchable and more in everything seen of hers so far (more to say) and was interested in seeing 'American Idol' winner Jordin Sparks in an acting role to see how a good singer would fare as an actress.
'Dear Secret Santa' turned out to me as a winner. While not one of my all time favourite Christmas films, it is one of the better faring made for television Christmas films from 2013 and one of the better ones seen recently. Have been on a Christmas film completest quest for a couple of years now and of a hit and miss but intriguing experience 'Dear Secret Santa' compares favourably. Those who like Ali won't be disappointed in her performance here.
It's not a masterpiece by all means. Despite it seeming like it was going to do things differently with something typical, there is not much that is original (as has been noted there are too many similarities with 'The Lake House' and it could have done with more imagination.
Some of the dialogue seemed on the ropey and awkward side and it is a little bit of a slow starter.
A lot works though. Ali is immensely engaging and full of charm in the lead role, while Ernie Hudson does sympathetic and dignified so well. Sparks is certainly much better than Kellie Pickler, another 'American Idol' contestant who has done some work for Hallmark and has not fared well in any of it), when it comes to the acting stakes. And Della Reese is a blast. The chemistry came over as genuine and at ease and the characters didn't bore or irritate.
Furthermore, it looks quite good, especially in the slick photography and beautiful locations. The music has varied in quality in all the recently seen Christmas films, 'Dear Secret Santa' fares better than most here. The soulfully uplifting and moving quality gave the film depth. Enough of the script flowed naturally and didn't come over as excessively cheesy, so it was easy to take things seriously, or too schmaltzy that it felt like overdosing on sugar. The story is not exceptional, but it did have charm and warmth and did appreciate that it did cover some mature themes and handled them with honesty and heart.
Bottom line, nice film. 7/10.
