Hallmark Movies and Mysteries Premiere | November 1, 2019
As a general rule, I stay away from 12 Days of Christmas movies. They're usually tedious and painful to watch. This one is the exception.
In this movie, Sharon goes home to spend Christmas with her cousin and settle the affairs of her recently deceased grandmother, who raised her. As she completes a list of Christmas activities spelled out by her grandmother's will (yes, we've seen this before, but this one is actually worth watching), she meets a widower and his daughter who are also dealing with sadness at Christmas. Central to the plot is a family heirloom, the two turtle doves ornament that completes a set.
There is nothing trite or silly about this movie, and it will give you all the feels. I teared up throughout because it was just so darn touching. The writing is smarter than usual, the story nicely crafted, the actors likable, the romance believable - it actually makes you feel like Christmas. This movie does not shy away from the loss that some feel at Christmas, yet it strikes the perfect balance of sweet romance and heartwarming, thought-provoking sentiment. It's everything that Hallmark does well, when it does it well.
Hallmark gets an A on: Christmas decor (somehow not too much); likable cast; Michael Rady and Nikki DeLoach; storyline; child actor; scarves (mine never look this good); solid writing
Hallmark gets a D on: I've got nothing
Grade: A
* Note Grading Scale:
A = This is seriously a good movie. It will remain on my DVR for the season.
B = Totally exceeded my expectations. I'm happy to recommend.
C = This is an average Hallmark movie. Good holiday fun.
D = I'm disappointed... but I watched it. Why not?
F = I actually had a hard time getting through this one. And that says a lot.
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