chriscma60

While the bare bones of the story holds distinct promise, something holds it back. Except for the two leads, the majority of the cast lack any positive character. Its hard to put your finger on it, but they and the dialog seems mean spirited instead of charming. The central story has its appeal and the resolution is pleasing, but, not enough to raise the quality of the story that much. In the end, if you're in the mood of a romantic movie on a rainy day, you could do worse, and better.

Let me start by saying I love Rachel Skarsten. Both she and Jazz Ramsey deserved better then this watered down murder mystery. This is not a very good film. I've been reading the book the story is taken from and it's obvious the amateurish screenplay took the basic story, tore the guts out, replacing it with romantic and familial entanglements. It looks like the budget was so limited they couldn't put extras as students in a school, parents in a meeting or even have a convincing office set where a witness works. Sad that characters with something to contribute stand about in silence as extras. So cheap. The sugary music score is inappropriate as well. With no spoilers, the most cringeworthy moment has detective Nick announcing the police will do all in their power to find the killer during a televised press conference. 24 hours later, he's ordered on to other more "pressing" cases. As for the K9 mystery, Zeus the crime dog finds a body and then becomes not much more then a pet. I had hoped this would be of the same quality as Rachel's previous film, The Royal Nanny, which was more than excellent. Alas, it's closer to the worst Hallmark has to offer. Give Jazz Ramsey another chance. With professional writing and higher production values, there could be something good here.

Rachel Skarsten was the perfect choice to head this clever Christmastime adventure. She has the rare ability to project a gentle and vulnerable persona while clearly being a badass. Skills she displayed as "Alice" in the recent Batwoman series. A performance that should have garnered Emmy Award attention.

There's a threat to the royal family and agent Claire (Skarsten) is sent undercover as a nanny for protection. What follows is the unfolding of a conspiracy plot that goes into unexpected directions. At the same time, Rachel charms the family, and the disinterest of Prince Colin, who over the course of the story finds himself drawn to Claire. Its mutual, but there's a mystery to solve first.

What makes The Royal Nanny so special is its written and filmed as an espionage story. There's very little of the usual Hallmark Channel tropes. It takes place in the real world and the supporting characters are all portrayed by well cast and believable performers.

So, why the "10? This is so different from the usual Hallmark fare. I was really caught up in the first few minutes. If the writer and director have any other ideas, Hallmark should really listen. Maybe even another adventure for Claire.

Bravo!