* Note- Hallmark Movies and Mysteries Premiere
The title of this movie inspires so many questions- is this the last time that our beloved characters will visit Vermont? Is it the last time that the good people of Vermont will celebrate Christmas? Is it the end of Christmas as we know it? Worse yet, is it the end of Vermont as we know it? Where will we get our maple syrup? The title is at once terrifying and confusing.
Another notable detail: the family plans to spend two weeks together to celebrate Christmas. I love their enthusiasm, but two weeks is a lot, right? Benjamin Franklin had a saying about houseguests and fish, and he wasn't wrong. The two weeks in this movie drag on and on and on. In fact, I feel like I've been watching for two weeks.
There are a few things to enjoy about this movie: the family ensemble with three sisters, which I don't think we've seen before in this genre; the super-traditional Christmas rituals (making your own ornaments each year? No wonder they need two weeks); and solid acting.
However, there's something that keeps me from loving this movie. The sweet family perfection is too much, even for Hallmark. Despite the movie being about parents selling the family home, to a daughter's ex-boyfriend no less, there's virtually no conflict. Yes, I realize that the sisters "fight" and almost ruin Christmas, but somehow I don't care. What this movie needs is for Cousin Eddie to pull up in his RV and stir up some real trouble.
Hallmark gets an A on: Scarves (A+); Wood-splitting scenes (the perfect way for a father-in-law to judge his son-in-law); Wrapping paper (I've never seen wrapping paper rolls in a store like this, but I love it. It must be a Vermont thing); Home inspection scene (actually funny); Tree farm over tree lot (bravo); Christmas fireworks; General nostalgia-factor
Hallmark gets a D on: Movie title; Nash's hair; Lack of conflict; Fake snow; Making a two-hour movie that could have been done in 20 minutes.
Grade: D
* 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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