Who Wrote Christmas All Over Again
MY FAVORITES FOR THE MOST ENJOYABLE, MEMORABLE, AND LIKABLE CHRISTMAS MOVIES
My Top 40 personal favorites. (Note: My ratings vary from 8 to 10. This list is in no particular order.)
The primary criterion for being added to this list is for a movie to be so rewarding or satisfying that, for older movies, I still remember them with warm memories after several years, and want to see them again, or for newer movies, that I believe this will prove to be the case in the future. Typically, each of these movies will have something distinctive that sets it apart and leads you to reflect on it afterwards.
The notes are taken either from an IMDB review of my own or from one by another IMDB User Reviewer who I thought had nicely captured the essence of the movie.
I consider some of these to be "Hidden Gems" -- movies with an IMDB rating below 7 that, in my opinion, are on par with movies rated well above 7. I hope you will enjoy them as much as I have.
Many of these made-for-TV ROM-COMS.
(ROM-COM definition: see Romantic comedy - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romantic_comedy)
In order to better distinguish them from each other, I rate TV ROM-COM entries relative to *other* made-for-TV ROM-COMs, and on a more generous scale, so these ratings tend to run a point or two higher than for a theater-released Christmas movie of comparable quality and likability.
84 min | Comedy, Romance
Two game creators, both vying for a promotion, must team up to create a Christmas scavenger hunt.
Director: Gary Yates | Stars: Mallory Jansen, Tyler Hynes, Cherissa Richards, Clare Filipow
Votes: 1,663
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "readyreference" wrote: Fun and festive!
Cute story with lots of imagination, loved the imaginative ways they interpreted the 12 Days of Christmas. The two main characters/actors are very likable, and the romance believable. Much better than some of the other holiday movies I've seen.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6228883/?ref_=tt_urv
86 min | Drama, Mystery, Romance
A writer seeks the identity of the person who helps grant wishes that are placed upon an angel tree, and in the process, reconnects with her childhood friend.
Director: Jessica Harmon | Stars: Jill Wagner, Lucas Bryant, Cassidy Nugent, Oscar Farrell
Votes: 933
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "dellataxes-38677" wrote: Best Movie This Year
... This movie is about miracles, but also caring more for others than ourselves. ... The chemistry between Jill and Lucas made the story more enjoyable. Both of them seem to have the same quirky sense of humor as well.
... I have watched this movie 5 times, and each time it brings smiles and laughter. Love this movie!
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6325209/?ref_=tt_urv
84 min | Drama, Romance
When her family's beloved eatery, The Starlight Café, is slated for demolition, Annie vows to put a stop to it before Christmas.
Director: Gary Yates | Stars: Kimberley Sustad, Paul Campbell, Darren Martens, Bruce Dawson
Votes: 1,625
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "jagfannn" wrote: Great Movie! These two are perfect together
Kimberley Sustad and Paul Campbell are great together, their chemistry is amazing. It's an interesting story, actually written by Paul Campbell, which is very funny, and not one snowball fight or tree lighting countdown. ... There is touching backstory we learn as the story unfolds and the entire cast does a great job. This is one is a well worth watching
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6313336/?ref_=tt_urv
84 min | Comedy, Romance
When a travel writer shows up unexpectedly at their dad's Bed and Breakfast, the Ralston family all pretend to be guests in hopes of a good review. Lucy (Bethany Joy Lenz) falls for guest Jake (Victor Webster), but can't share her secret.
Director: Christie Will Wolf | Stars: Bethany Joy Lenz, Victor Webster, Robert Wisden, Laura Soltis
Votes: 1,927
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "jakeh" wrote: A pleasant surprise, hilarious, great ensemble
I was pleasantly surprised with "Five Star Christmas." As opposed to the usual pap of most of the stories so far this year, this quirky (I know that word has come up before) and romantic comedy was refreshing. The storyline was well written and thought out, coming together nicely with the usual romantic ending on several levels. The energy that Lenz gives off was contagious as was the interplay between the characters. This is my favorite for the 2022 season ... Not since the fantastic "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year (2008)," which featured Henry Winkler, have I enjoyed a Hallmark Christmas feature so much. Put this one on your 'Watch list,' you won't regret it.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6320439/?ref_=tt_urv
84 min | Drama, Romance
A recent widow travels with her son to her Virginia hometown for Christmas. On the way they meet a man who is heading to the same destination. As they continue to spend time together, the pair grows closer.
Director: Terry Ingram | Stars: Alison Sweeney, Lucas Bryant, Kiefer O'Reilly, Britt Irvin
Votes: 937
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "parksidedrive" wrote: Christmas Journey to Joy
Hallmark delivers the best movie of the season. Alison Sweeney (Katherine) and Lucas Bryant (Jack) are superb in their roles. The movie is about the loss of a special love and finding a conclusion to a time of pain. Each character finds resolution and growth. Love is the answer.
A stand out cast, terrific story, with great directing & music. Just the best from Hallmark.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw5348985/?ref_=tt_urv
84 min | Drama, Romance
Two squabbling TV hosts are sent to a festive small town over Christmas. While pretending to get along for the sake of appearances, they discover there's more to each other than they thought.
Director: Paul Ziller | Stars: Alison Sweeney, Marc Blucas, Nicole Oliver, Matthew James Dowden
Votes: 1,339
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "capital-33203" wrote: Ali and Marc team up again! Love it!
For friends out there that enjoy your Hallmark movies, this one doesn't disappoint. Ali Sweeney and Marc Blucas have been in another movie together and were amazing. Its exciting to see another one with them. The storyline is interesting and the rivalry Of the two main characters is well done. ... This is a feel good movie that helps get us all into the Christmas spirit. Thank you Hallmark!!
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6328996/?ref_=tt_urv
96 min | Comedy, Family, Fantasy
Santa's son and successor is looking for a suitable Mrs. Claus before he can take over the family business.
Director: Harvey Frost | Stars: Steve Guttenberg, Crystal Bernard, Dominic Scott Kay, Thomas Calabro
Votes: 1,478
<HIDDEN GEM> TV-ROM-COM - A Truly Pleasant Surprise
Charming! Fun to watch.
Far, far better than its current 5.9 IMDB user rating would lead you to believe.
84 min | Comedy, Drama, Music
Meg wants to save her neighborhood from getting demolished. She then discovers that Nate has other plans. Can she turn Nate's heart toward Christmas?
Director: Steven R. Monroe | Stars: Alicia Witt, Andrew W. Walker, Drake Hogestyn, Briana Price
Votes: 1,070
<HIDDEN GEM> TV-ROM-COM - Good chemistry and a nicely structured plot
In other IMDB user reviews a number of people commented on the good chemistry between the leads, but a roughly equal number felt there was little or no chemistry. Put me down firmly on the side of *good* chemistry, supported by a charming, cheerful, positive plot that is thoughtfully structured and nicely developed.
Every year there always seems to be at least one Hallmark movie where some treasured institution or tradition is about to be sold/converted/demolished, etc. This is one of the best of that genre I have seen.
85 min | Comedy, Drama, Family
When Anna offers a stranded mother and son shelter in a blizzard, she learns that they are the Royal Family of Galwick. Anna shows the Prince how they do Christmas in her hometown, encouraging him to open his heart and be true to himself.
Director: Dustin Rikert | Stars: Laura Osnes, Krystal Joy Brown, Tom McGowan, Bradley Rose
Votes: 1,821
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "jagfannn" wrote: Very enjoyable Christmas movie!
The female lead is very funny in this version of this Royal meets ordinary girl story. Rather than trembling in his presence, she actually busts on him a little bit in a sweet and funny way. The male lead (The Prince) is a little too entitled, arrogant but they still manage to achieve some chemistry when it matters. So with the help of a good cast, and interesting subplots, the end result is a good holiday movie, and her singing voice WOW! I enjoyed this one.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6228441/?ref_=tt_urv
84 min | Drama, Romance
At Christmas, a cheerful publicist teams up with a cynical VP and his eclectic team to help a charity in need.
Director: David Weaver | Stars: Candace Cameron Bure, Warren Christie, Jordana Largy, Brenda Crichlow
Votes: 1,306
<HIDDEN GEM> TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "drdianastout" wrote: The Cyclone Hits!
I'll admit, at first, I thought this story was a bit boring, ... thinking this was going to be another typical Hallmark movie. Ho, ho, ho, far from it.
... the real surprise occurred halfway into the story when I realized that this was a spoof remake, a fantastic nod to The Wizard of Oz. ... From there on out, I laughed at the clues, the well-known phrases, and even the character names.
Brilliant!
(The above excerpts have been re-ordered. The full original review is linked below.)
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6326461/?ref_=tt_urv
84 min | Drama, Romance
Working through some difficult decisions, a mother and father summon their two grown sons home for the holidays.
Director: Michael Grossman | Stars: Robert Buckley, Ana Ayora, Treat Williams, Sharon Lawrence
Votes: 1,900
<HIDDEN GEM> TV-ROM-COM - Past, Present, and Future
The plot did a nice job of weaving a family's past events into a story about their present concerns, and clanging their plans for the future. Nicely done. Rewarding story.
84 min | Comedy, Fantasy, Romance
Charles Whitley travels from 1903 to 2022 where he meets Megan Turner and experiences a 21st Century Christmas.
Director: Ron Oliver | Stars: Erin Cahill, Ryan Paevey, Brandi Alexander, Zahf Paroo
Votes: 2,295
TV-ROM-COM - A Timeless Classic
I really enjoyed the way they handled the time travel aspect and the resulting cultural displacement, but I especially appreciated the growth of the main character as he learned to appreciate the historical events triggered by his departure from 1903.
84 min | Comedy, Romance
Maggie is facing Christmas alone until Lucas become an unexpected house guest.
Director: Allan Harmon | Stars: Ashley Williams, Niall Matter, Lisa MacFadden, Brendon Zub
Votes: 1,570
<HIDDEN GEM> TV-ROM-COM - Cheerful plot
I liked the movie a lot. I liked the way the lead characters were developed in the context of the plot situations, and how their personal histories were revealed.
85 min | Comedy, Romance
A hopeless romantic who can't ever seem to give a guy a real chance begins receiving each of the "12 Days of Christmas" as gifts anonymously at her door and begins to believe that the mystery suitor may finally live up to her expectations.
Director: Jeff Fisher | Stars: Meredith Hagner, Bobby Campo, Megan Park, Aaron O'Connell
Votes: 2,599
<HIDDEN GEM> TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "MIssM19" wrote: I really loved it!
I gotta be honest, the minute I saw the main character, I asked myself "what have I gotten myself into?" I thought it was going to be one long hour and a half, but surprise, it wasn't at all. I think that what made this movie so special was the chemistry between the characters, they looked like they were having fun for real, and every time Liam looked at Cynthia I melt. I actually enjoyed both characters. This is definitely going to my favorite hallmark movies list.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw3618290/?ref_=tt_urv
83 min | Comedy, Romance
Snowstorm threatens both Lina's and Max's holiday plans. They are forced to work together to figure out a way home - without taking it out on each other.
Director: Catherine Cyran | Stars: Rachael Leigh Cook, Greyston Holt, Jon Cor, Robyn Bradley
Votes: 1,373
<HIDDEN GEM> TV-ROM-COM - A tale of two movies
The other user reviews of this movie seem to fall into one of two categories: (1) the plot is too improbable to relate to, so the reviewer couldn't enjoy the movie; or (2) recognizing the kind of plot it has, the reviewer enjoyed the funny, touching moments that it brings, and appreciated the good dialogue lines scattered throughout the movie. Count me in the second category! This movie was a lot of fun, and I really enjoyed the way the romantic side of the story developed in the context of the lead characters' backstories.
90 min | Family, Romance
Resort developer Madison Lane (Finnigan) is tasked with finding a location for a new ski resort. While she's prepared to recommend the resort be placed in Mountain Park, her boss tells her ... See full summary »
Director: Gary Harvey | Stars: Eric Mabius, Jennifer Finnigan, Susan Hogan, Lauren McNamara
Votes: 1,256
<HIDDEN GEM> TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "cindi-34402" wrote: Enjoyable
Though the Hallmark movies churned out every year now are pretty predictable, the chemistry and banter between the romantic leads were better than the norm.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw4508784/?ref_=tt_urv
13+ | 130 min | Drama, Family, Fantasy
An angel is sent from Heaven to help a desperately frustrated businessman by showing him what life would have been like if he had never existed.
Director: Frank Capra | Stars: James Stewart, Donna Reed, Lionel Barrymore, Thomas Mitchell
Votes: 445,323
THEATER RELEASE - A true classic! Nothing more needs to be said. Be sure to watch it at least once.
96 min | Comedy, Drama, Family
After a divorced New York mother hires a nice old man to play Santa Claus at Macy's, she is startled by his claim to be the genuine article. When his sanity is questioned, a lawyer defends him in court by arguing that he's not mistaken.
Director: George Seaton | Stars: Edmund Gwenn, Maureen O'Hara, John Payne, Gene Lockhart
Votes: 47,407 | Gross: $2.65M
THEATER RELEASE - A classic! This 1947 version is the best one to watch, either in B&W or colorized. This is one of the few B&W films where I actually prefer the colorized version because for this particular movie it is brighter and easier to view. Also, Santa looks better in a red coat! (FYI - At one point I found the colorized version on AMC.)
7+ | 104 min | Adventure, Comedy, Family
The story of sister and brother, Kate and Teddy Pierce, whose Christmas Eve plan to catch Santa Claus on camera turns into an unexpected journey that most kids could only dream about.
Director: Clay Kaytis | Stars: Kurt Russell, Darby Camp, Judah Lewis, Oliver Hudson
Votes: 71,452
NETFLIX movie - User Reviewer "RmatthewC" wrote: A Good Candidate to become a Christmas Classic
This movie was very enjoyable for adults and kids in the family. Cinematic quality was excellent, had a good script, acting was great, and the Santa character is the best I've seen or read since The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. We'll watch this again a few times this Christmas season.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw4473325/?ref_=tt_urv
NOTE: The sequel, The Christmas Chronicles 2, is a dud. Watch it if you want to, but don't watch it just because this movie is so good.
84 min | Comedy, Romance
A widow's daughter writes to Santa Claus, asking for her mother to find love again. When a struggling writer receives the letter, he finds new inspiration and the beginnings of a romance.
Director: Brian Herzlinger | Stars: Marguerite Moreau, Mike Faiola, Brady Smith, Isadora Swann
Votes: 1,581
<HIDDEN GEM> TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "Debzreview" wrote: Good One
From the beginning of this movie I knew it was different than the usual Hallmark movie. The story line lends itself to Hallmark but there is just something about the way it was written and directed that draws you in. ... This is easily one of my favorites. ...
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw3857453/?ref_=tt_urv
82 min | Drama, Romance
Before the holidays, Sara goes to Montana to help a man save his ranch.
Director: T.W. Peacocke | Stars: Kellie Martin, Colin Ferguson, Ava Preston, Art Hindle
Votes: 944
<HIDDEN GEM> TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "tocanepauli" wrote: I loved this!
I know people have low rated this but I loved it! This was a great Hallmark movie. Great characters, good story, lovely scenery, dreams coming true.. it had it all. This is what a Christmas movie is all about. If you have a dream (even a little one) watch this......
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw5328452/?ref_=tt_urv
84 min | Drama, Romance
As Christina prepares her restaurant for its busiest time of year, she gets her DNA test revealing that she's Jewish. The discovery leads her to a new family and an unlikely romance over eight nights.
Director: Mark Jean | Stars: Mia Kirshner, Ben Savage, Marilu Henner, Advah Soudack
Votes: 896
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "vkrasneski" wrote: Captivating
One of the best holiday movies this year. From beginning to end, every scene well portrayed and directed. Casting was brilliant along with the surprise of Ben Savage. Your heart will be filled with joy as you watch these characters develop into a beautiful story. Enjoy! I did~
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6363500/?ref_=tt_urv
81 min | Romance
The plot revolves around a woman (Egan) and a soldier (Blucas) who exchange letters for a year before their worlds collide.
Director: Clare Niederpruem | Stars: Melissa Claire Egan, Marc Blucas, Latarsha Rose, Patti Murin
Votes: 1,347
TV-ROM-COM - Heartwarming -- a pleasure to watch
An interesting plotline develops from a chance situation, bringing together romance and life choices in a way that is both satisfying and believable. The lead characters seem very real, which adds to the depth of the movie and lets the audience really appreciate how the various subplots work out in the end.
86 min | Comedy, Crime, Drama
A struggling artist working as waitress kidnaps one of her customers to bring home and meet her parents at Christmas.
Director: Ron Underwood | Stars: Melissa Joan Hart, Mario Lopez, Timothy Bottoms, Markie Post
Votes: 6,607
<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - This actually worked!
Silly as the premise might be, they actually pulled it off in a way that worked, and made for a truly enjoyable movie. Not only was this a good comedy, it was a good family movie as well. Be sure to stick with it through the awkward early scenes until you get past the country store. Smooth sailing from there.
88 min | Comedy, Drama, Family
Corporate analyst and single mom, Jen, tackles Christmas with a business-like approach until her uncle arrives with a handsome stranger in tow.
Director: Michael M. Scott | Stars: Brooke Burns, Henry Winkler, Warren Christie, Connor Christopher Levins
Votes: 4,179
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "disneyed" wrote: Possibly my favorite Hallmark Christmas
I really love this movie. There's humor, romance, conflict, warmth and sentimentality. What's not to love about Henry Winkler? And there is real chemistry between the lead characters. A movie that even your husband may enjoy!
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw4503280/?ref_=tt_urv
84 min | Drama, Romance
Ellie Hartman, an aspiring crafter working in her small town's bakery shows Nick Carlingson, the new big-city CEO during his visit to the bakery's main floor, that it's people and not machines that make the business a success.
Director: Don McBrearty | Stars: Brooke D'Orsay, Daniel Lissing, Mary-Margaret Humes, David Keeley
Votes: 1,684
<HIDDEN GEM> TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "ambie719" wrote: Predictable but enjoyable
There is nothing about this movie that isn't just another Hallmark standard formula but Brooke D'Orsay makes up for it with her charm. She and Daniel Lissing play off of each well which makes what could be a boring movie legitimately enjoyable.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw4469934/?ref_=tt_urv
101 min | Comedy, Drama, Fantasy
A selfish, cynical television executive is haunted by three spirits bearing lessons on Christmas Eve.
Director: Richard Donner | Stars: Bill Murray, Karen Allen, John Forsythe, John Glover
Votes: 98,885 | Gross: $60.33M
THEATER RELEASE - User Reviewer "DoobieKeebler" wrote: THE perfect modern Christmas movie
I'm amazed by all the negative and mean-spirited comments for this movie. "Scrooged" is a cinematic gem, one of the most outstanding films of the '80s or any time for that matter. Bill Murray is at his comedic best, and he is entirely convincing as a bitter network exec who has lost sight of the important things in his life, like family and friends. You know the Dickens story, but Richard Donner's film version breathes life into the story and gives it extra meaning for modern audiences. Supporting actors all do wonders with their roles, from Robert Mitchum to Carol Kane to Michael J. Pollard. This film will make you laugh, and will certainly bring a little warmth into your Christmas season.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw0261815/?ref_=tt_urv
93 min | Comedy, Family
In the 1940s, a young boy named Ralphie attempts to convince his parents, his teacher and Santa that a Red Ryder BB gun really is the perfect Christmas gift.
Director: Bob Clark | Stars: Peter Billingsley, Melinda Dillon, Darren McGavin, Scott Schwartz
Votes: 146,337 | Gross: $20.61M
THEATER RELEASE - Wacky, but a Christmas masterpiece!
86 min | Comedy, Drama, Family
After a stray cat adopts Zachary, he meets Marilee and realizes the single life is not as fulfilling as he thought it was.
Director: Mark Jean | Stars: Brandon Routh, Kimberley Sustad, Stephanie Bennett, Chelsea Hobbs
Votes: 3,912
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "Anonnamus" wrote: Sad I didn't watch this sooner!
This is a charming film that contains all the best things; romance, humor, and animals. It's rare you find two extremely likable leads yet Nine Lives of Christmas has managed to do just that.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw4669504/?ref_=tt_urv
87 min | Comedy, Drama, Family
Alice is set to meet her future in-laws for the first time, but things don't go according to plan.
Director: Jonathan Wright | Stars: Alicia Witt, Mark Wiebe, Lawrence Dane, Scott Gibson
Votes: 3,631
<HIDDEN GEM> TV-ROM-COM - A marvelous, memorable movie
I remembered this movie for years after first seeing it, and now after seeing it again I realized that it was even better than I had remembered.
The improbable but believable plot sets up a situation where people discover what is really important to them and reach heartfelt decisions, but it is also good fun along the way. Good acting and interesting characters carry the plot to a very nice conclusion.
85 min | Drama, Romance
A widow of a war hero takes in an injured soldier who has just returned from Afghanistan. Together they help each other heal and find true love.
Director: Paul A. Kaufman | Stars: Julie Benz, Michael Shanks, Lauren K. Robek, Toby Levins
Votes: 1,334
<HIDDEN GEM> TV-ROM-COM - Touching, heartfelt, meaningful, moving, satisfying.
This seemed very real. It was also uplifting. One of the best of the military homecoming themed Christmas films.
I agree with User Reviewer "bradshawl-1" who wrote: "This is a beautiful story of loss and healing."
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw4454588/?ref_=tt_urv&mode=desktop&rtm=1&rtm_sr=1
82 min | Family, Romance
A busy single mother begins organizing her city's Christmas parade. While prop hunting, she finds a beautiful sleigh that seems to have a mind of its own, and it begins nudging her back to an old flame.
Director: Marita Grabiak | Stars: Erin Cahill, David Alpay, Dakota Guppy, Jenna Romanin
Votes: 1,312
<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - It gets better and better
What might have been a decent but otherwise routine plan-an-event type of ROM-COM is elevated by the lead characters' interplay around their respective, and partially shared, backstories. Tracy and Hepburn its not, but this adds spice to the story. The movie rises further to become memorable by the addition of the most charming Santa look-alike since Edmund Gwenn's portrayal in 1947's "Miracle on 34th Street". The Sleigh, itself, deserves an honorable mention in a supporting role. I recommended hanging in there through a slow start and some awkward dialogue early on. I think you'll be glad you did.
88 min | Comedy, Romance
A woman proposes to her boyfriend who says he has to work things out with an ex before he can answer, leaving her to take a romantic sleigh ride alone with a sympathetic driver.
Director: Anthony C. Ferrante | Stars: Jennifer Freeman, Johnny Pacar, Michael Copon, Nikki Leigh
Votes: 198
<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - Nicely developed
Nice story. I am always intrigued by movies that some people like a lot and others not so much. In this case, I am grateful to User Reviewer 'toddsgraham' for providing me with the motivation to watch this movie, based on his "Fancy a sleigh ride with Snowdrop..." review comments.
Put me down on the side of savoring how the film's key relationship gently develops, supported by good dialogue and good acting. I am already reflecting back on this movie with good feelings.
The 'toddsgraham' write up can be found here:
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6368076/?ref_=tt_urv
93 min | Drama, Family, Fantasy
Willow Creek, Alaska, is going through a depression because the local cannery has shut down putting many of the residents out of work. Ray and Pete are truck-driving brothers, different as ... See full summary »
Director: Richard Lang | Stars: John Schneider, Tom Wopat, Kim Delaney, Zachary Ansley
Votes: 555
<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - Gets better as it goes along
In this satisfying story of reconciliation and growth the lead characters have a long way to go, and there is a lot of emotional negativity early in the film. You'll need to work through that, and get past it, before the movie settles into its stride. Also, its an older movie and the production values are not great compared to current offerings, but the movie is still worth it -- so stick with it.
Willow Grove, AK, is portrayed as a quirky town, which I enjoyed. Reminded me of the town in the old TV series "Northern Exposure".
It is toward the end of the film that all of the different plot elements start coming together into a nice ending. One late sequence, in particular, was very memorable. You'll know it when you see it.
Days after watching this I was still reflecting on it, which caused me to increase my original rating and add "Willow Creek" to this list.
48 min | Comedy, Family
A teacher puts on a Christmas pageant and puts the worst children in school as the stars.
Director: George Schaefer | Stars: Loretta Swit, Jackson Davies, Antony Holland, David Alexander
Votes: 721
TV SPECIAL - This is said to be commonly available in libraries, and has been found on You Tube.
User Reviewer "misizzlem2" wrote: Amazing
Wow. This show is amazing. Just recently, I watched it in my theater arts class and I was astonished on how great it was. My friend and I even cried, it was that touching. ...
The characters seem so real, it's amazing. The show is so touching, with a slight hint of hilarious. It has so many funny lines in it. It's really one of my favorites now. It's such a funny show, you definitely have to see it if you haven't. It draws you in right away and you can't stop watching it. Once you watch it, you'll be glad you did. It will definitely make you remember the true meaning of Christmas.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw1536418/?ref_=tt_urv&mode=desktop&rtm=1&rtm_sr=1
90 min | Comedy, Fantasy, Romance
A story that follows Kate, a young woman who after a horrible blind date on Christmas Eve, wakes up to find she is re-living that same day and date all over again.
Director: James Hayman | Stars: Laura Miyata, Vijay Mehta, Amy Smart, Audrey Dwyer
Votes: 6,753
<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - A fresh twist on a modern classic
Wow. This movie was so much better than I expected! I had figured that any attempt to build a movie along a "Groundhog Day" theme would simply look pale by comparison, but this one took enough of a fresh tack that it effectively carved out its own path. It was really enjoyable, without looking derivative. A lot of humor. Highly recommended.
There is also a 2022 movie with the same title, so be sure to get this 2011 version. Also, be aware that there are a number of others with very similar titles, such as 2020's "On the 12th Date of Christmas" which at one point I had mistaken for this one.
98 min | Drama, Fantasy
In an American town, an old bitter miser is given a ghostly chance at redemption on Christmas Eve.
Director: Eric Till | Stars: Henry Winkler, David Wayne, Chris Wiggins, R.H. Thomson
Votes: 1,446
<HIDDEN GEM>
TV SPECIAL - A thoughtful and effective re-interpretation of the classic tale
The basic elements of the classic Dickens tale seem even more real, and even more meaningful, in this re-staged version where the story is set in depression-era New Hampshire. This excellent production helps bring the story to life in a way that makes it very relatable to current day audiences. We see the "Scrooge" character on Christmas Eve, 1933, and we also learn how his life history led up to his situation and behaviors on that day. The conclusion on Christmas Day is nicely presented, humorous, and very rewarding.
84 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
When a Princess escapes her entourage to explore New York City over Christmas, she meets a young man who shows the beautiful stranger his side of the city.
Director: James Head | Stars: Briana Evigan, Paul Campbell, Greg Evigan, Jacqueline Samuda
Votes: 3,205
<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "rw_franco" wrote: Lead Actors = Actually Good!
I was utterly shocked. ha-ha! The leads are actually good actors (very good...) I've got a sneaking suspicion they were stage actors first and knew how to "read" the subtext of the script. The teleplay is realistic and not a living cartoon. There's a warmth about the story. I was quite impressed that The Princess was so understated and engaging. The Builder opted out of the slapstick motif. Great romantic chemistry between the leads. Very enjoyable!
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw4023334/?ref_=tt_urv
84 min | Drama, Family, Fantasy
A WWII era nurse is transported in time to 2022 and meets a man who helps her discover the bonds of family and that the true meaning of Christmas is timeless.
Director: Mel Damski | Stars: Candace Cameron Bure, Oliver Hudson, Brooke Nevin, Meghan Heffern
Votes: 2,738
TV-ROM-COM - Time travel twist sets up a nice story
The time travel element in the movie is integral to setting up a meaningful and satisfying story. It also sets up some character interrelationships that bring closure to interesting aspects of the storyline and some unexpected twists. Well worth a watch.
An interesting aspect was the 1940s portion of the movie. It felt just right, consistent with my memories of that era. It was more accurate than some other reviews would have you believe. _______________
Also, User Reviewer "kall6695" wrote: Warm and Fuzzy
This is a movie classic. A young nurse who lost her husband in WWII travels forward through time at Christmas. This is a great movie about traditions that have been lost and found again. Heartwarming with excellent cast. Add this to your Must See list of Holiday movies.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw5185670/?ref_=tt_urv
Source: https://www.imdb.com/list/ls084095403/
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