peterkoch-98114

Oh how one dimensional some critics are about this movie! Start with Message in a Bottle (a book and movie); then of course shades of You've Got Mail! Solid, famous chapters from love stories underpinning a new release of good ideas. But you left out the wedding scene from Working Girl (fishing+dance). Proof that love is not a new concept and that how this film gives a rich and exciting three course meal that, when you get up from the table, you are completely satisfied.

We have two of the best actors from a well known stable that in this film supply us with the tension and tease for the right outcome, because they made us care. For believability, the whole cast was interesting and helpful in making older stories appear refreshed and new. Not for one second did I let these thoughts interfere with the enjoyment given by the writer and actors of a well directed movie. Although its nice knowing a solid pedigree underpins this story, criticise me if you feel I'm wrong, but I'm looking to watching this one again.

This film ticks all the boxes and gets a deserving 7.0 which for me is the gold standard of Romance/Christmas films.

I'm a sucker for happy endings and this one was surprisingly satisfying. To me the true Christmas movie is about two people placed in an unwanted situation, finding they compliment each other. From that initial spark comes the recognition that being together feels so much better than being apart. The lead players in this tale demonstrated they had the ability to capture our hearts and yearn for more.

The premise was two people, set in their ways, almost opposites in their beliefs and experiences, working together on the annual town Christmas event. I expected them to collide like bumper cars with sparks coming off the electrical connections, and it came close. I believe the writers showed us the possibilities in a couple of situations, but the director shied away from exploiting the gems playing the parts.

It's decent Christmas fare, so I'm satisfied. All the parts were played like well made clothing, not a stitch out of place, and the ending so good I'm already preparing to watch it again.

I've seen better and I've seen worse, but I enjoyed this from beginning to end. Christmas is a time we want to spend with people who are special to us, that make our time together more enjoyable. I have spent time with almost all the cast in other circumstances and once again they've made me feel comfortable in their company, to enjoy it all the more. The story was frivolous and fun, but made believable with their enthusiasm. I've never met them, or ever seen them in real life, but the many characters they have played, and I have enjoyed, makes me look forward to watching this film again and again.