All Christmas Movies I watched in 2024 & Reviews

1 – Elf – Will Farrell – Buddy Hobbs the Elf, Zooey Deschanel – Jovie, James Caan – Walter Hobbs, Mary Steenbergen – Emily Hobbs, Daniel Tay – Micheal Hobbs, Ed Asner – Santa, Bob Newhart – Papa Elf

On Christmas Eve, a curious baby from an orphanage crawls into Santa's sack, drawn by the sight of a teddy bear, and is whisked away to the North Pole. The elves discover him and lovingly name him Buddy, after the brand on his diaper. Papa Elf adopts him and raises Buddy as one of their own. Buddy grows up thinking he's an elf, but as an adult, he learns the surprising truth—he's actually human! Papa Elf shares that Buddy's biological parents are Walter Hobbs, a children’s book publisher in New York, and Susan Wells, who lovingly placed him for adoption before she passed away.

Determined to meet his father, Buddy travels to New York, brimming with excitement and holiday cheer. He finds Walter at work, but Walter mistakes him for a Christmas-gram messenger and sends him away. Undeterred, Buddy explores the city and ends up at Gimbels department store, where he meets Jovie, a charming but disillusioned employee. Buddy transforms the store overnight into a Christmas wonderland, but his enthusiasm causes a mix-up with the store’s Santa, leading to a hilarious brawl.

Walter eventually discovers Buddy is his son after a DNA test and brings him home to meet his wife, Emily, and their son, Michael. While Buddy’s quirky, elf-like behaviour surprises the family, his big heart wins them over. Buddy and Michael bond during a snowball fight, and Michael encourages Buddy to ask Jovie on a date, sparking a sweet romance.

Meanwhile, Walter faces pressure at work to save his struggling publishing company. During a critical meeting with a ghostwriter, Buddy’s innocent misunderstanding causes chaos, and Walter lashes out at him. Heartbroken, Buddy leaves, but not before leaving an apology on an Etch A Sketch.

Realizing how much Buddy means to him, Walter leaves his job to search for him. At the same time, Santa’s sleigh crashes in Central Park, unable to fly due to a lack of Christmas spirit. Buddy jumps into action, repairing the sleigh while Michael reads Santa’s list aloud to the gathered crowd. Jovie leads everyone in a joyful rendition of “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town,” spreading Christmas cheer and powering the sleigh without the engine.

Opinion

You can't get more Christmassy than this movie! Will Ferrell's boundless enthusiasm as Buddy the Elf perfectly captures the spirit of the season, while the sweet romance between Buddy and Jovie adds a heartwarming touch. The joy this film brings is undeniable, with its stunning decorations and infectious festive energy. The heartfelt ending will leave your chest swelling with the true meaning of Christmas. If this isn't already a cherished holiday classic, it absolutely should be—it embodies everything magical about the season.

146 Candy Cane Points 🎄

2 – Christmas Carol Musical – Kelsey Grammar – Ebeneezer Scrooge

This musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol retells the classic tale with a vibrant cast and engaging performances. On Christmas Eve in London, the bitter and miserly Ebenezer Scrooge shuns kindness, charity, and the joy of the season. That night, he is visited by the ghost of his late business partner, Jacob Marley, who warns him of eternal torment unless he changes his ways. Scrooge is then guided by three spirits who take him through visions of his past, present, and potential future. These experiences reveal the pain he has caused others and the happiness he has missed. Moved by these revelations, Scrooge awakens on Christmas Day a changed man, embracing generosity, rekindling relationships, and embodying the true spirit of Christmas.

Opinion

The cast delivers an excellent performance, bringing this timeless story to life. Kelsey Grammer excels as Scrooge, capturing his transformation with depth and nuance. Jennifer Love Hewitt adds natural sweetness to her role as Emily, while Jason Alexander's rendition of "Link by Link" as Jacob Marley is particularly enjoyable. The three ghosts each leave a memorable impression: Jane Krakowski is gentle and compassionate as the Ghost of Christmas Past, Jesse Martin brings joy and forthrightness as the Ghost of Christmas Present, and Geraldine Chaplin (daughter of Charlie Chaplin) is both serene and fearsome as the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come.

The music is catchy, heartfelt, and fun, with every performer showcasing strong vocals and superb acting. This was a wonderful musical extravaganza retelling of this wonderful Christmas classic which makes it an annual rewatch.

135 Candy Cane Points 🎄

3 – Christmas in Evergreen – Ashley Williams – Allie, Teddy Sears – Ryan, Holly Robinson Peete – Michelle, Barbra Niven – Carol & Jaeda Lily Miller – Zoe

This is the first in The Evergreen Christmas Series of movies of which there are four. Widower Ryan Bellamy plans to spend Christmas with his daughter, Zoe, in Florida to avoid reminders of his late wife. However, their plans take an unexpected turn when they get stranded in the charming town of Evergreen, Vermont, due to a snowstorm. While there, they meet local veterinarian Allie Shaw, who is visiting her family from Washington, D.C. Allie is preparing to move in with her boyfriend and colleague, Spencer.

As the town prepares for its traditional Christmas festival, Allie keeps trying to leave to meet up with Spencer and Ryan and Zoe are trying to get their flight to Florida. While waiting Allie meets Ryan and Zoe and introduces them to Evergreen. They learn about the legend of the town snow globe which makes wishes come true. Zoe who is captivated by the festive spirit of the town wishes they could stay instead of go to Florida. As the wish comes true events happen so that both Allie and Ryan and Zoe keep getting delayed and a romance starts to blossom between Allie and Ryan.  This magical bond forms amid festive activities like building snowmen, baking cookies, playing Christmas games, and sharing a traditional Christmas dinner.

Opinion

This film overflows with Christmas charm, from its beautifully decorated sets to its heartwarming festive traditions. The cast delivers solid performances, with notable appearances from familiar faces like Holly Robinson Peete (Morning Show Mysteries), Barbra Niven (Chesapeake Shores), and Jaeda Lily Miller (When Calls the Heart). The chemistry between the leads is lovely, and the film offers a true festive extravaganza.

From snow globes to Santa, the movie captures the essence of holiday magic. The adorable animals featured throughout add an extra layer of warmth and charm, earning bonus points for their presence. Overall, this delightful holiday movie is a treat for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the spirit of Christmas.

131 Candy Cane Points 🎄

4 – Bad Moms 2 – A Bad Moms Christmas – Mila Kunis – Amy, Kristen Bell – Kiki, Kathryn Hahn – Carla, Christine Baranski – Ruth, Cheryl Hines – Sandy, Susan Sarandon – Isis, Jay Hernandez – Jessie, Peter Gallagher – Hank, Justin Hartley – Ty Swindell

Amy is enjoying her relationship with Jessie and plans a simple Christmas with her kids. However, her plans are disrupted when her critical mother Ruth announces she’s coming for the holidays. Meanwhile, Kiki, is overwhelmed by her codependent mother Sandy, who arrives early and stays for three weeks. Carla is surprised by the sudden visit of her estranged mother, Isis, who likely wants money despite her warm reception.

The three friends meet at the mall, venting about holiday stress, and resolve to “take Christmas back.” Ruth’s over-the-top plans clash with Amy’s desire for simplicity.

Carla meets Ty, an erotic dancer competing in a Sexy Santa contest, and agrees to a date. Kiki struggles with Sandy’s intrusiveness and seeks therapy.

On Christmas Eve, Kiki snaps at Sandy for announcing plans to move next door, demanding space. Amy also loses her temper when Ruth hosts an extravagant party against her wishes. After a heated argument, Amy tells Ruth to leave her life, upsetting her children. Meanwhile, Carla discovers Isis has left her a farewell note.

The grandmothers find themselves at church, criticizing each other’s parenting. Amy’s father, Hank, helps her understand Ruth’s insecurities and unconditional love. Amy reconciles with Ruth at church, and they rush home to redecorate for Christmas.

On Christmas morning, peace is restored. Kiki and Sandy make amends, with Sandy admitting her loneliness since Kiki’s father died. Isis reconnects with Carla, agreeing to stay for a while. All the families gather for an unconventional Christmas dinner. Ty, now in love with Carla, joins the celebration, and the grandmothers announce a trip to Las Vegas. The film ends with everyone dancing happily in the credits.

Opinion

I absolutely love this movie, which features a fantastic lineup of talented stars and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments. That said, it’s definitely a film for adults, as some of the humor isn’t suitable for children. Alongside the comedy, it’s packed with festive Christmas activities like gingerbread decorating, shopping, tree buying, and caroling—all with a hilarious twist.

The decorations put up by Amy’s mom, Ruth, are absolutely stunning. Kathryn Hahn shines as the wildly funny Carla, and Justin Hartley is outstanding as the charming and sexy Santa, Ty Swindell. Peter Gallagher is incredibly endearing as Hank, and the chemistry among the entire cast is simply amazing.

This film is a laugh-out-loud Christmas romp you won’t want to miss!

114 Candy Cane Points 🎄

5 – Deck the Halls = Matthew Broderick – Steve Finch, Kristin Davis – Kelly Finch, Danny Devito – Buddy Hall  & Kristin Chenoweth – Tia Hall.

In the fictional town of Cloverdale, Steve Finch (Matthew Broderick) prides himself on being the "Christmas guy" of his neighbourhood. However, his orderly holiday tradition is disrupted when Buddy Hall (Danny DeVito) and his family move in across the street. Buddy, feeling unaccomplished, becomes determined to decorate his house with enough Christmas lights to make it visible from space. His extravagant displays, including live animals and synchronized lights, quickly make him the centre of attention and provoke Steve’s envy.

The rivalry escalates as Steve’s attempts to sabotage Buddy’s decorations backfire hilariously, culminating in a series of mishaps including a frozen lake plunge, a car accident, and the destruction of a Christmas tree lot. Buddy’s obsession with his lights leads to personal losses, including his job and the departure of his family. Similarly, Steve’s rivalry costs him his family’s attention as he becomes consumed with outshining Buddy.

Ultimately, the two men reconcile after Steve forgives Buddy and helps him create a grand winter wonderland. Their efforts inspire the entire town to come together to restore Buddy’s lights in time for a broadcast on MTV. When the lights finally work, the house becomes visible from space, fulfilling Buddy's dream. The movie ends on a heartwarming note with both families and the town united in holiday cheer.

Opinion

This movie is a hilarious holiday treat, brimming with laugh-out-loud moments as the rivalry between Buddy and Steve spirals out of control. The cast is excellent, with Danny DeVito and Matthew Broderick delivering fantastic comedic performances. Kristin Chenoweth shines as Tia, bringing her signature charm, joy, and even her singing talent to the role. The escalating antics and over-the-top competition provide endless humor, while the uplifting ending adds a touch of heartfelt warmth that makes it perfect for family viewing year after year.

107 Candy Cane Points 🎄

6 – Red One – Dwayne Johnson – Callum Drift, Chris Evans – Jack O’Malley, Kiernan Shipka – Gryla, J.K Simmons – Santa Claus, Lucy Liu – Zoe Harlow & Kristof Hivju – Krampus

M.O.R.A. (Mythological Oversight and Restoration Authority) is a secretive, international organization dedicated to maintaining peace between mythological beings and humanity. Callum Drift, commander of ELF (Enforcement Logistics and Fortification) and head of Santa Claus’s security, plans to retire after one last Christmas, disheartened by the growing Naughty List. However, on Christmas Eve, Santa is kidnapped by a black ops team, prompting Callum to alert Director Zoe Harlow. Her team traces the breach to Jack O’Malley, a mercenary hacker who unknowingly sold Santa’s location to an anonymous buyer.

Zoe apprehends Jack and offers to double his payment if he helps find Santa, implanting a tracker to ensure compliance. Callum and Jack follow the lead to a broker in Aruba, who reveals that the kidnapper is the winter witch, Grýla. Grýla’s snowmen attack them, killing the broker, but Callum and Jack escape. Suspecting Grýla is collaborating with Krampus, Santa’s estranged brother and creator of the Naughty List, they infiltrate his lair but are captured. Krampus denies involvement but reveals that Grýla sought the Glaskäfig, a magical snow globe capable of imprisonment. Jack tricks Krampus, enabling their escape.

Grýla imprisons Santa in a vault that drains his magic and creates duplicates of the Glaskäfig. She plans to trap every naughty child in the world, testing the snow globes on Jack and his estranged son, Dylan. Inside the globes, Jack and Dylan reconcile, breaking free through their newfound bond.

Zoe, using Jack’s tracker, discovers that Grýla and Santa never left the North Pole. She, Callum, and their team infiltrate the complex, freeing Mrs. Claus and the staff from Grýla’s shapeshifters. In Santa’s old workshop, they find Jack, Dylan, and the equipment used to mass-produce the enchanted globes.

Grýla prepares to use Santa’s sleigh to distribute the globes globally, but Callum, Jack, and Krampus join forces to stop her. Santa awakens, defeats Grýla, and traps her in one of her own globes. Afterward, he reconciles with Krampus.

As Christmas Eve continues, Santa invites Jack and Dylan to join the delivery run. Witnessing Jack rediscover his wonder and bond with Dylan, Callum decides to postpone his retirement, ready to protect Christmas for another year.

Opinion

This was an incredibly enjoyable film, perfect for both children and adults. Just keep in mind that very young kids might find the evil snowmen or Krampus a bit scary. I loved the high-tech gadgets and the way Santa and the Christmas village were portrayed as modern, organized, and up-to-date. The movie was packed with action and adventure, which made it captivating from start to finish. The cast delivered brilliant performances, each excelling in their roles. I particularly appreciated how the story blended pagan and Christian traditions, bringing Santa Claus and the elves together with figures like Gryla and Krampus. Overall, it’s a delightful, modern festive treat that’s sure to entertain everyone.

106 Candy Cane Points 🎄

7 – Check Inn to Christmas – Rachel Boston – Julia Crawley & Wes Brown – Ryan Mason

Set in the picturesque Rocky Mountain town of Crestridge, the story revolves around two rival inn-owning families, the Crawleys and the Masons, who have been feuding for years over which inn is superior. Their competition intensifies during the Christmas season as both families strive to outdo each other in the town's festive events.

Julia Crawley, a lawyer living in the city, returns home for Christmas to help her family with their inn. She reconnects with Ryan Mason, a member of the rival family. As they spend time together, Julia and Ryan agree that the feud is petty and work on finding ways to end it. When a large company threatens to buy up local properties to build a resort, the two families fear their inns won't survive. This crisis becomes an opportunity for Julia and Ryan to encourage their families to unite and protect their community. Meanwhile, a romance blossoms between Julia and Ryan, adding warmth and charm to the story.

Opinion

The set design was a visual treat, bursting with Christmas trees and decorations that created a delightful holiday atmosphere. Fans of Christmas aesthetics will be in heaven with the festive overload. Rachel Boston's performance was a joy to watch, bringing charm and energy to her role, while Wes Brown's understated and sweet portrayal of Ryan perfectly complemented her. Their chemistry was natural and developed beautifully throughout the story, standing out as more authentic than many rushed romances in similar films.

The movie was packed with Christmas-themed events like a snowball game, trivia, tree lighting, a festive dance, and holiday-themed food. It truly embraced the spirit of the season, making it a joyful watch and filling the Christmas meter to the brim.

89 Candy Cane Points 🎄

8 – The Holiday Junkie – Jennifer Love Hewitt – Andie & Brian Hallisay – Mason

The Holiday Junkie is a heartwarming story centred on Andie, a professional holiday planner who decorates homes and schedules events to maximize festive cheer. Following the recent loss of her mother—known as the original "holiday enthusiast"—Andie struggles to carry on her family’s holiday business while navigating her grief. Planning to spend a quiet Christmas mourning, her plans change when she’s paired with Mason, the house manager for a wealthy client. Mason, a self-proclaimed holiday sceptic dealing with his own personal losses, must team up with Andie. Together, they embark on a journey filled with cookie-baking marathons, well-meaning friends, travel mishaps, and a dynamic blend of sentimental charm and guarded scepticism.

Opinion

Hewitt, one of my favourite actresses, delivers a moving performance that feels authentic, particularly during the emotional scenes. While I typically shy away from sadness in holiday films, the emotional depth and sincerity here enriched the story, especially knowing the film was created to honour Jennifer Love Hewitt’s late mother. However, I felt the theme of loss was brought up too often, slightly overshadowing the festive cheer. On the brighter side, the Christmas decorations were stunning, and the chemistry between Hewitt and her real-life husband translated beautifully on screen. Hewitt’s contributions as a writer, producer, and actress were impressive, making this heartfelt Christmas story a standout despite its heavier moments.

89 Candy Cane Points 🎄

9 – Merry & Bright – Jodie Sweetin – Cate & Andrew Walke – Gabe

This movie centres around a Candy Cane Company inherited by Cate. Unfortunately, the company is struggling financially because its product only sells during the Christmas season. Gabe, a publicist, is brought in to offer suggestions on cutting costs and boosting revenue. Initially, Cate and Gabe clash, but their interactions are filled with charming humor. Over time, romance blossoms between them. The film also features traditional holiday elements like a Christmas tree lighting ceremony and a subplot involving Cate’s mother, played by Sharon Lawrence. A dog also makes an appearance, adding a heartwarming touch.

Opinion

The set design and decorations are a standout feature, creating a visually stunning, Christmas-themed aesthetic that made the movie particularly memorable. Jodie Sweetin and Andrew Walker are well-cast, delivering performances with natural chemistry that feel genuine rather than forced, as can sometimes happen in holiday romances. Sharon Lawrence’s portrayal of Cate’s mother adds depth to the story, and the inclusion of the dog was a delightful bonus for dog lovers like me. The movie’s mix of humour, romance, and festive traditions made it a joy to watch.

88 Candy Cane Points 🎄

10 – Bringing Christmas Home – Jill Wagner – Professor Caroline Upton & Paul Greene – Russell Carlise

This movie features two popular Hallmark actors: Jill Wagner, known for the Mystery 101 series, and Paul Greene from When Calls the Heart. The story revolves around Russell Carlisle (played by Paul Greene), who owns an antique shop with his sister. When Russell buys inventory from a friend who is closing her shop, he discovers a World War II uniform, a photograph, and a love letter among the items.

Determined to do the right thing, Russell decides to return the uniform to its rightful owner or the owner's family. He aims to accomplish this before Christmas, hoping it will be a meaningful and heartwarming gift. To gather more information, he posts about the uniform on a military history forum. This catches the attention of Professor Caroline Upton (played by Jill Wagner), a military history expert, who offers her assistance. Together, Russell and Caroline embark on a journey to uncover the story behind the soldier and his lost love.

Opinion

I thoroughly enjoyed this movie! The acting was fantastic, with Paul Greene and Jill Wagner delivering memorable performances. Their chemistry as Russell and Caroline was fun, romantic, and developed in a natural and engaging way.

The mystery element was a delightful surprise for a Christmas movie, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the heartwarming holiday story. The festive decorations were beautifully done, and the film had many touching moments that tugged at the heartstrings, reminding viewers of how fortunate we are. This heartfelt and entertaining Christmas movie is a must-watch for fans of mysteries and romantic holiday stories alike.

87 Candy Cane points 🎄

11 – Love Actually – Hugh Grant – Prime Minister David, Martine McCutcheon – Natalie, Alan Rickman – Harry, Emma Thompson – Karen, Bill Nighy – Billy Mack, Gregor Fisher – Joe, Keira Knightley – Juliet, Chiwetel Ejiofor – Peter, Andrew Lincoln – Mark, Colin Firth – Jamie, Lucia Moniz – Aurelia, Heike Makatsch – Mia, Liam Neeson – Daniel, Thomas Sangster – Sam, Laura Linney – Sarah, Rodrigo Santoro – Karl, Kris Marshall – Colin, Abdul Salis – Tony, Martin Freeman – John, Joanna Page – Judy

This is an elective mix of diverse stories which all have to do with love and are connected in some way. The film opens with a narrator reflecting on the pure, uncomplicated love displayed at the arrivals gate of Heathrow Airport, emphasizing that even in dark times, love prevails. The story interweaves multiple love stories, highlighting different facets of human connection:

Billy Mack and Joe

Aging rock star Billy Mack records a Christmas version of "Love Is All Around" with his manager, Joe. Despite mocking the song, Billy's promotional efforts make it a Christmas hit. On Christmas Eve, he skips a party to spend time with Joe, highlighting their friendship.

Juliet, Peter, and Mark

Juliet and Peter are recently married. Peters best man and best friend Mark is secretly in love Juliet. Despite his attempts to hide his feelings, Juliet learns the truth through a wedding video Mark filmed. On Christmas Eve, Mark silently confesses his love using cue cards, accepting their relationship as friends.

Jamie and Aurélia

After discovering his girlfriend's infidelity, writer Jamie retreats to France, where he falls for Aurélia, his Portuguese housekeeper. Despite a language barrier, they connect. Jamie learns Portuguese and proposes to Aurélia in her hometown, where she reveals she’s been learning English for him.

Harry, Karen, and Mia

Harry, a married manager, flirts with his secretary Mia and buys her a necklace, which his wife Karen mistakenly believes is for her. On Christmas Eve, Karen realizes the truth, confronting Harry and expressing her heartbreak over his betrayal.

David and Natalie

David, the Prime Minister, develops feelings for Natalie, a staff member. After a misunderstanding, he searches for her on Christmas Eve and attends a school play where they kiss, revealing their relationship to the public.

Daniel & Sam

Widower Daniel supports his stepson Sam, who has a crush on a classmate, Joanna. Sam learns drums to impress her at a school performance and later confesses his feelings at the airport before she leaves. Joanna surprises him by reciprocating with a kiss.

Sarah & Karl

Sarah, a dedicated employee, secretly loves her colleague, Karl. Their budding romance is interrupted by her commitment to her mentally ill brother, Michael. Despite her longing, she prioritizes family over her personal happiness.

Colin & Tony

Frustrated with British dating, Colin heads to the US, where his accent charms a group of American women. He returns to England with Harriet, one of the women, and her sister, who catches Tony’s attention.

John and Judy

Professional film stand-ins John and Judy meet during awkwardly intimate scenes on set. Their modest off-screen connection blossoms into a sweet romance, culminating in their engagement.

A month later, all characters converge at Heathrow, showing their lives moving forward. Relationships are rekindled, new love blossoms, and connections strengthen, reflecting the enduring power of love. The film closes with real-life airport arrivals, celebrating love's universality.

This interconnected web of relationships highlights love's complexity and resilience across different forms and circumstances.

Opinion

Although this is my sentimental favourite and holds the number one spot in my heart, it ended up lower on this list because, beyond its Christmas trees, decorations, carolling, and the Christmas concert, it doesn’t feature much else that’s overtly festive. The main festive events are limited to the concert and a Christmas party.

That said, the acting by everyone was outstanding, and there were delightful cameos by Rowan Atkinson and Claudia Schiffer. Among the stories, my favourites are the romance between Prime Minister David and Natalie. Hugh Grant portrays a likable and charismatic Prime Minister, while Martine McCutcheon’s portrayal of Natalie is heartfelt and enjoyable, making their romance feel authentic.

I also adore the love story of Jamie and Aurelia—Colin Firth brings charm to the role of Jamie (and as a writer, his character resonates with me), while Lucia Moniz captivates as Aurelia. Their romance is sweet and endearing.

However, I’m not a fan of the infidelity storyline involving Harry, Karen, and Mia. While the acting was excellent, it was a heartbreaking subplot, especially knowing that Emma Thompson, who played Karen, was experiencing something similar in her personal life at the time.

On a lighter note, I enjoyed the humorous storyline of Colin heading to America, as well as the romance between Judy and John. Bill Nighy’s hilarious portrayal of Billy Mack was another highlight.

While the movie may not be brimming with holiday festivities, it’s deeply heartfelt and serves as a beautiful reminder to seek out and cherish love, which truly is all around us. That’s why, despite everything, it will always be number one in my heart.

83 Candy Points 🎄

12 – Meet Me Next Christmas – Christina Milian – Layla & Devale Ellis – Teddy

Layla, played by Christina Milian, has a Christmas tradition of attending a Pentatonix concert every year. At the airport one year, she meets James, and the two get along well. James suggests they meet at the next year’s Pentatonix concert if Layla finds herself single. Though Layla insists she loves her boyfriend, she agrees to the idea under that condition.

The following Christmas, Layla discovers her boyfriend cheating on her. Heartbroken, she initially decides to skip the concert but remembers her conversation with James.

Unfortunately, the concert tickets are sold out. Determined to attend, Layla hires Teddy, a resourceful concierge, to find tickets. As Teddy helps her, a romance develops between them. Along the way, the story is filled with holiday cheer, humor, and a singing competition featuring fabulous costumes worn by drag queens.

Opinion

This movie was a delight to watch! Christina Milian’s performance as Layla exuded warmth and joy, making her character incredibly likable. Devale Ellis was charming as Teddy, and the chemistry between him and Milian added a heartfelt dynamic to the story. The music by Pentatonix was festive and fun, perfectly complementing the holiday theme. The supporting cast was fantastic, particularly Kalen Allen, who shone as Drag Queen Jordy with vibrant energy. The drag queens' costumes during the singing competition were a visual treat. Overall, the humour, romance, and uplifting ending made this a thoroughly enjoyable holiday film.

79 Candy Cane Points 🎄

13 – A Christmas Blessing – Lori Loughlin – Mandy, James Tupper – Adam & Jesse Hutch – Otto

Famous TV personality Mandy Gilmore, celebrated for her culinary series A World of Food, decides to bid farewell to the show and embark on an ambitious journey to dine at all 142 Michelin three-star restaurants worldwide.

The story takes a heartfelt turn when Mandy inherits her late aunt’s community food pantry, Angel's Fare. This unexpected responsibility inspires her to host a meaningful holiday meal for those in need, reigniting her connection to her aunt’s legacy and the deeper purpose of cooking.

Before beginning her global adventure in Paris, Mandy visits Milwaukee to finalize the sale of Angel's Fare to a neighbouring business owner, Adam.  However, pantry volunteer Otto reminds her that her aunt’s passion for cooking was rooted in helping others. Inspired, Mandy decides to honour her aunt’s memory by organizing one last holiday feast, rediscovering the joy of giving through food. Adam and Otto help Mandy with this venture and romance blossoms between Adam and Mandy.

Opinion

I always enjoy watching Lori Loughlin on screen, and her pairing with James Tupper was spot-on—their natural chemistry made their scenes together very engaging. Jesse Hutch’s portrayal of the quirky Otto was particularly endearing and added a fun dynamic to the story.

The decorations, while not as elaborate as in some other Christmas movies, felt appropriate given the film's focus on helping those in need. An over-the-top display might have seemed out of place or even hypocritical for a story centered around charity.

I appreciated the plot's emphasis on giving back and supporting others, but one aspect didn’t sit well with me: the idea that the community only became invested in the charity because of a celebrity's involvement. This undermined the message a bit, as it suggested that people's struggles only gain attention when highlighted by someone famous.

Despite this minor flaw, the movie was a heartfelt and sweet Christmas watch—perfect for the holiday season!

78 Candy Cane Points 🎄

14 – Christmas Inheritance – Eliza Taylor – Ellen Langford & Jake Lacy – Jake Collins, Andie MacDowell – Deborah Collins

Ellen Langford, portrayed by Australian actress Eliza Taylor (known for The 100 series), is a spoiled and immature heiress set to inherit the Langford family business. Her father, Jim, is eager to retire but doubts Ellen's readiness to take over. To test her, he assigns her the task of delivering the traditional Christmas letter exchange between himself and his business partner, Zeke. However, there's a catch: Ellen must hand-deliver the letter to Zeke in the small town of Snow Falls, where her parents first met and where the family business began.

To ensure Ellen learns valuable life lessons, Jim insists she go incognito and live on just $100 with no access to credit cards.

While staying at the local inn, Ellen finds herself connecting with the townspeople and begins to mature. She develops a romantic relationship with the inn manager, Jake Collins (played by Jake Lacy), despite having a self-absorbed boyfriend back home. Ellen also meets Jake’s Aunt Debbie (Andie MacDowell), who shares a history with her father.

The story includes touching moments, such as when a snowstorm forces the inn to shelter a homeless man and a military wife with her two young children. These experiences bring warmth and community spirit to the narrative.

Opinion

Eliza Taylor delivers a strong performance as Ellen, capturing her transformation from spoiled heiress to someone more grounded and empathetic. Jake Lacy, although not immediately likable as Jake, grows on viewers as the story progresses. Their banter and budding romance provide light-hearted and enjoyable moments.

The film features humorous exchanges and heartfelt scenes that emphasize themes of kindness and resilience. The decorations and caroling add a festive touch, while Andie MacDowell’s singing talents bring an unexpected bonus. As a fan of babies, I appreciated the inclusion of a baby in the story, which added to the charm.

Overall, this was a pleasant and heartwarming Christmas movie with a blend of humour, romance, and touching moments, making it a delightful watch for the holiday season.

78 Candy Cane Points 🎄

15 – My Favourite Christmas Tree – Emma Johnson as Kyla & Giles Panton as Cody

Kyla, a dedicated genealogist, embarks on a personal journey to trace her own family tree. Her search uncovers intriguing details about her mother that lead her to the picturesque town of Conifer. As she follows the trail of clues, Kyla is drawn to a generations-old Christmas tree farm owned by the Menu family. Cody, the current owner, offers to assist Kyla in unravelling her family mystery. In return, she lends her expertise to help him with a rare Christmas tree discovered on the farm. Amid their shared efforts, romance blossoms between Kyla and Cody, set against the backdrop of holiday cheer.

Opinion

The acting by Johnson and Panton was solid, with their chemistry growing naturally throughout the movie. The festive atmosphere was enhanced by beautifully done decorations and an abundance of Christmas trees, which added to the charm. The inclusion of a Christmas market, festive food, and seasonal activities further enriched the holiday spirit. As someone who loves both books and history, I particularly enjoyed the genealogy aspect of the story. Watching Kyla uncover her connection to the town through archives and the library was a highlight, making this a delightful and heartwarming Christmas movie.

77 Candy Cane Points 🎄

16 – Sincerely Truly Christmas – Paula Brancati – Christina Martino & Jake Epstein – Robert Riley

Christina, a straight-talking music events planner, is frustrated by people's inability to say what they really want. This frustration leads her to make a Christmas wish: that people would openly express their true desires. Her wish comes true in an unusual way—whenever someone speaks to Christina and starts a sentence with "What I want is," they reveal their deepest Christmas wish.

Christina's frustration stems from a work-related problem that ultimately got her fired. Determined to make things right, she devises a plan to revive her favorite one-hit-wonder Christmas song, Sincerely, Truly Christmas by Dan Copen, as a way to regain her job. In her efforts, Christina meets Jake, a real estate agent who promises to help her connect with Dan, though he stretches the truth about his ability to do so. As Christina and Jake work together, a romance blossoms, and Jake's son becomes part of the story.

Opinion

The actors were refreshingly genuine, portraying relatable characters who felt like real people—not overly perfect. The idea of people openly sharing their true Christmas wishes was a charming concept, and I found it intriguing since it’s something I’d find useful in real life. However, the movie seemed to lose this thread as its focus shifted to the relationship between Christina, Jake, and Jake's son. That said, the chemistry between Christina and Jake was delightful, filled with fun banter and sweet moments. The festive decorations and Christmas events added to the holiday charm. Overall, it was a fun and enjoyable Christmas watch.

76 Candy Cane Points 🎄

17 – Ice Sculpture Christmas – Rachel Boston – Callie & David Alpay – David Manning

The movie begins with David and Callie as children attending the Christmas party at the hotel where Callie’s father works and David’s father owns. They watch the annual ice carving competition, and Callie expresses her dream of becoming an ice sculptor when she grows up.

Fast forward to Callie as an adult: she is seen creating an impressive ice sculpture of a snowman in front of her house. Shortly after, Callie receives exciting news that she has been hired as a dishwasher in the hotel’s kitchen, working under a chef she admires. Callie aspires to become a chef herself.

On her first day at the hotel, Callie accidentally knocks a man’s phone into a fountain. She later realizes that the man is David, her childhood friend, who now works with his father managing the hotel. Callie comes up with a creative way to save David’s phone.

To thank Callie, David remembers her childhood dream and signs her up for the hotel’s ice sculpting competition. However, Callie is upset when she learns about this because her new boss, the chef she admires, has won the competition for years and considers it her domain. Callie tries to back out, but the chef insists she compete.

Since the competition requires a partner, Callie recruits David to join her team. As the two practice their ice sculpting, a romantic connection develops between them.

Opinion

Rachel Boston delivers a charming performance, as always, in this Christmas movie. However, I found David’s portrayal a bit stiff, which impacted the chemistry between the characters. While Callie’s emotions and attraction were evident, David’s responses felt somewhat robotic.

The hotel decorations were beautifully festive, though the rest of the town lacked the same holiday charm. The ice sculptures were a highlight of the film, featuring intricate designs like gingerbread houses, reindeer, and Christmas bells. These works of art added a magical, festive touch, and the sculptors deserve high praise.

One aspect I didn’t enjoy was the antagonist subplot. The sous chef, played by Leanne Lapp, instantly disliked Callie and was overly antagonistic. While a villain can be entertaining in a Christmas movie if done with humour or exaggeration, this character felt too realistically mean. Given that real life already has enough negativity, such antagonists can detract from the light-hearted joy of holiday films.

Despite this, the movie was an enjoyable watch, with the ice sculptures standing out as a splendid feature.

75 Candy Cane Points 🎄

18 – Candy Cane Christmas – Beverley Mitchell – Phoebe & Mark Ghanime – Eric

Phoebe has cherished the tradition of visiting Candy Cane Lane since childhood. The street, once brimming with dazzling Christmas lights, festive decorations, and a lively Santa, holds a special place in her heart. Now an adult, Phoebe faces the bittersweet reality that the neighbourhood is changing—longtime residents are moving away, and the beloved tradition is fading. Struggling to cope with this loss, Phoebe is encouraged by a friend to explore new Christmas traditions. Embracing the suggestion, Phoebe meets Eric, a kind-hearted veterinarian, and a romantic connection begins to blossom. Along the way, Phoebe learns to balance her love for old traditions with the excitement of creating new ones.

Opinion

Watching Beverly Mitchell on screen is always delightful, and Mark Ghanimé's charming portrayal complements her performance nicely. The film is a visual treat, especially with its vibrant depiction of Candy Cane Lane, and Phoebe's flower shop, adorned with an abundance of poinsettias, adds a touch of holiday magic. The movie offers a mix of heartfelt, sweet, and humorous moments, though the chemistry between Phoebe and Eric felt more like friendly Gwarmth than romantic sparks. Still, the abundance of Christmas cheer, complete with adorable dogs and cats, makes it a festive and enjoyable watch.

72 Candy Cane Points 🎄

19 - Christmas land – Nikki Deloach – Jules & Luke Macfarlane Tucker; Maureen McCormack – Grandma Glinda 

The story begins with a magical and festive opening as Grandma Glinda helps children, including her granddaughter Jules, make Christmas decorations before heading off to the town's Christmas tree lighting ceremony in a snow-filled sleigh. Grandma Glinda has created Christmas land, a whimsical place for children to enjoy the holiday spirit. 

Fast forward 25 years: Jules, now a successful marketing expert in New York, is promoted to Vice President. However, her life takes a turn when she inherits Christmas land and the accompanying tree farm from her late grandmother. Jules, who has a lawyer boyfriend in New York, returns to her hometown with plans to sell the property. 

Upon arrival, she meets Tucker, the estate lawyer, who mistakenly spreads the rumour that Jules will reopen Christmas land, thrilling the town. However, when Jules reveals her intention to sell, the townsfolk are disappointed. Tucker apologizes, and Jules prepares to finalize the sale. He explains that Grandma Glinda had repeatedly refused lucrative offers to preserve Christmas land’s charm and spirit, prompting Jules to reconsider. 

As Jules begins cleaning up Christmas land, a little girl's excitement about its reopening tugs at her heartstrings. Jules decides to temporarily reopen Christmas land, both to fulfill the town's wishes for one last Christmas celebration and to enhance its market appeal. She frames the reopening as a marketing strategy to her boyfriend, who agrees to help sell the property. To avoid breaking the town's heart before Christmas, Jules persuades Tucker to keep her true intentions a secret. Tucker reluctantly complies, setting the stage for a holiday filled with joy, nostalgia, and the possibility of Jules rediscovering the magic of Christmas.

Opinions

The opening scene sets a wonderfully festive tone, immersing viewers in the charm of Christmas. Jules' inner conflict between her career-focused city life and her sentimental ties to Christmas land provides a heartfelt storyline. Tucker’s role as a gentle challenger adds emotional depth, and the little girl's innocence beautifully symbolizes the enduring magic of the holiday season. The movie successfully balances nostalgia, community values, and Jules' journey of self-discovery. 

Candy Cane Points: 67 🎄

20– A Cookie Cutter Christmas – Erin Krakow – Christie & David Hayden-Jones – James. Alan Thicke – cookie judge, Miranda Frigon - Penny

The story revolves around two teachers, Christie (played by Erin Krakow) and Penny (Miranda Frigon), who were best friends in their youth but have since become rivals due to their competitive natures. Their rivalry intensifies when a new single dad, James (David Hayden-Jones), moves to town. Both women vie for his attention, using a Christmas cookie competition as a way to outdo each other. The rivalry leads to comedic situations and, of course, sparks of romance. Alan Thicke makes a special appearance as the judge of the cookie competition, and the film features several child actors from When Calls the Heart. 

 Opinion 

The movie stands out for its humour, particularly in the scenes where Christie and Penny engage in their over-the-top rivalry. Erin Krakow, known for her role in When Calls the Heart, is as charming as ever, and the cast—including Miranda Frigon and Alan Thicke—adds to the appeal. As a fan of When Calls the Heart, I especially enjoyed seeing familiar faces in this fun, light-hearted holiday film.

66 Candy Cane Points 🎄

21– A Glenbrooke Christmas – Autumn Reeser – Jessica & Antonio Cupo - Kyle

Jessica Morgan, a wealthy heiress set to take over her family’s business, travels to Glenbrooke, Colorado, for a meaningful and low-key Christmas. To remain incognito, she uses the alias Jessica Emerson and rents her late mother’s former home. In town, she meets Kyle Buchanan, the fire chief and a respected figure in the community, who harbors a strong prejudice against the wealthy. Despite initial clashes, the two grow closer as Jessica immerses herself in Glenbrooke’s Christmas traditions, including a belief in the magical Christmas Eve church bells that grant wishes.

When Jessica discovers the bells won’t ring due to expensive repairs, she organizes a community fundraiser rather than simply paying for the restoration herself, hoping to preserve the town’s values. As their bond deepens, Jessica hides her true identity from Kyle, fearing his reaction. When the truth eventually comes out, Kyle feels betrayed, and they part ways. However, Kyle later reconsiders his judgment and seeks her out. Jessica, delayed from returning to Los Angeles, reconnects with Kyle, and they admit their feelings.

Choosing to stay in Glenbrooke, Jessica balances her business ambitions with a newfound passion for the town and its people. On Christmas Eve, she rings the restored church bells, fulfilling her wish for genuine connections and a heartfelt holiday

Opinion

Autumn Reeser shines in her role, bringing warmth and charm to Jessica. Her dynamic with Antonio Cupo offers moments of light-hearted banter and humour, though the chemistry feels a bit one-sided, with Reeser showing more interest than Cupo. The festive setting is richly portrayed, featuring a variety of classic Christmas activities such as tree lighting, carolling, and even sitting on Santa’s lap. While the storyline is sweet and engaging, Kyle’s blanket assumption that wealthy people lack sincerity feels overly judgmental and slightly undermines his character, especially given his own relatively comfortable life. Overall, the film offers an enjoyable blend of romance, humour, and holiday spirit, even if the love story doesn’t fully ignite.

65 Candy Cane Points 🎄

22 – Hot Frosty – Lacey Chabert – Kate & Dustin Milligan – Jack

The movie centres around the fantastical idea of a snowman coming to life and forming a romantic connection with a woman named Kate. The snowman, named Jack, is portrayed by Milligan (of Schitt's Creek fame) with a sense of wide-eyed wonder. Lacey Chabert stars as Kate, bringing her signature warmth and joy to the role. Alongside the central love story, the film weaves in a subplot about Kate’s husband, who passed away from cancer, adding a layer of emotional complexity. The small-town setting plays a significant role, as the community not only accepts Jack but rallies around him in a heartwarming display of unity. The movie also includes several humorous and heartfelt moments, as well as cameo appearances from Craig Robinson, Joe Lo Truglio, Lauren Holly, and Katy Mixon. The story concludes on a sweet note, and the end credits feature bloopers for a light-hearted finish.

Opinion

Initially, I was hesitant to watch the movie due to its premise, which reminded me of Mannequin—a film that creeped me out as a child. However, this movie's sweetness and charm, along with Milligan’s excellent portrayal of Jack, made the concept more palatable, though it still unsettled me at times. Lacey Chabert was delightful as always, bringing warmth and joy to her role, as she often does in Christmas films. On the downside, I found the subplot about the husband’s death from cancer less enjoyable and felt it clashed with the lighter snowman love story. The cameos were a highlight, adding humor and familiarity to the film. I appreciated how the entire town fell in love with Jack, not just Kate, and the community’s support at the end was a lovely touch. While I enjoyed the romance and the bloopers, I wished for more Christmas decorations and activities to enhance the festive atmosphere. Overall, the movie was sweet, humorous, and heartfelt.

64 Candy Cane Points 🎄

23 – Christmas at the Drive in – Danica McKellar – Sadie & Neal Bledsoe – Holden

Property lawyer Sadie, played by Danica McKellar, lives in a small town where the drive-in theatre has long been a cherished part of the community's ambiance. However, the drive-in’s owner, Holden—Sadie's old boyfriend—returns with plans to sell the property. Before moving forward, Holden needs approval from the town council. When Sadie learns of his intentions, she fights to save the drive-in.

The council decides that Sadie and Holden must work together to determine if the drive-in can still be a viable asset for the town. Although reluctant at first, Holden agrees to cooperate, partly due to lingering feelings for Sadie. As Christmas approaches, Sadie incorporates holiday themes into her efforts to save the drive-in, such as screening Christmas movies and offering seasonal treats. Amid their collaboration, old feelings reignite, and Holden undergoes a heartwarming Christmas transformation, reconsidering his plans to sell.

Opinion

Danica McKellar shines as the endearing and determined Sadie, making her performance enjoyable to watch. However, it took much of the movie for Holden's character, played by Neal Bledsoe, to grow on me, even when he was being agreeable. Bledsoe’s subtle James Dean-like charm did help make him more appealing as the story progressed.

The decorations were festive but not as exceptional as those in other holiday movies, and the story focused more on saving the drive-in than on Christmas itself. That said, McKellar and Bledsoe displayed wonderful chemistry, particularly in the dance scene, which added warmth and depth to the film.

63 Candy Cane Points 🎄

24 – Falling for Christmas – Lindsay Lohan – Seirra & Chord Overstreet – Jake, Jack Wagner – Seirra’s Dad, George Young – Tad – Seirra’s Fiancé

Sierra, a spoiled heiress portrayed by Lindsay Lohan, loses her memory after a skiing accident. She is discovered by Jake Russell, played by Chord Overstreet, who runs the Northstar Lodge with his mother and daughter. With no recollection of who she is or where she's from, Sierra stays with Jake's family while she recovers. As she participates in the lodge's Christmas activities, Sierra transforms into a more down-to-earth person. Meanwhile, her self-absorbed fiancé Tad, also involved in the accident but separated from her, ends up stranded with a local fisherman, leading to comedic moments. Over time, romance blossoms between Sierra and Jake, culminating in heartfelt and nostalgic moments as Sierra begins to remember her past. A cameo by Jack Wagner as Sierra's father adds a touching conclusion.

Opinion

Lindsay Lohan delivered a strong performance, effectively portraying both the entitled heiress and her more grounded transformation. However, Chord Overstreet's portrayal of Jake felt bland, and the chemistry between the two characters was lacking early on. It improved during a nostalgic flashback scene near the end, which added emotional depth. The Christmas decorations were beautifully done, creating a visually pleasing holiday atmosphere. George Young's portrayal of Tad struck a balance between humour and irritation, adding comedic relief. Overall, the movie was a sweet, heartfelt holiday comedy with an entertaining cameo by Jack Wagner and a delightful blooper reel that added a fun bonus.

63 Candy Cane Points 🎄

25 – Christmas in the Highlands – Dan Jeanotte – Alistair McGregor & Brooke Burfitt – Blair Henderson

Blair Henderson works for a perfumery and one day finds a mysterious package at her door containing a rare Scottish scent called "Heart of the Highlands." Her boss tasks her with either acquiring the rights to the perfume or uncovering its secret ingredients so their company can recreate it. A week before Christmas, Blair travels to Scotland to negotiate a deal or uncover the formula.

In Scotland, Blair meets Earl Alistair McGregor, whose family produces the coveted perfume. For Alistair, creating the perfume is a deeply personal passion, tied to memories of his late mother. When Blair learns that Alistair is unwilling to share the secret ingredients, she pretends to be a documentary filmmaker to get closer to him. As they work on the faux documentary, Blair and Alistair develop a romantic bond.

Complications arise when Alistair’s ex-girlfriend reappears and Alistair discovers Blair's true identity and motives. However, the story resolves with all misunderstandings cleared, and the couple finds happiness together in a classic happy ending.

Opinion

The film, Christmas in the Highlands, leaves much to be desired. While Dan Jeannotte (known from Good Witch) delivers a charming performance as Alistair, Brooke Burfitt's portrayal of Blair lacks the warmth needed to make her character truly endearing.

One glaring issue is the lack of authenticity in a film set in Scotland—there wasn’t a single Scottish accent to be heard, despite much of the movie being filmed at Glamis Castle in Angus, Scotland. Incorporating even a few Scottish extras with authentic accents could have added much-needed atmosphere.

Additionally, the Christmas theme feels underwhelming. The plot revolves more around the perfume business than holiday traditions, with only superficial nods to the season through decorations and a Christmas ball. For someone with Scottish heritage hoping for a festive highland experience, the film is a disappointment. Overall, it fails to deliver on either its romantic or holiday promise, making it a letdown for those expecting more Highland charm.

58 Candy Cane Points 🎄

26 – A magical Christmas Village – Alison Sweeney – Summer, Luke Macfarlane - Ryan & Marlo Thomas - Vivian

Summer, a single mother played by Alison Sweeney, is juggling multiple responsibilities, including raising her daughter Chloe, handling her mother Vivian’s (Marlo Thomas) financial troubles, working as a designer, and volunteering at the town's Christmas festival. Vivian’s generous decision to give away her house forces her to move in with Summer, leading to clashes due to their contrasting personalities—Summer is a control freak, while Vivian is free-spirited. Vivian sets up her cherished Christmas village in Summer’s home, which becomes central to the story. Meanwhile, Chloe wishes for her mother’s happiness and uses the magic of the Christmas village to help Summer connect with Ryan (Luke Macfarlane), a kind-hearted man organizing the town's Christmas toy drive. As the two work together, a romance blossoms.

Opinion 

I really enjoy the performances of Alison Sweeney, Marlo Thomas, and Luke Macfarlane—they bring charm to the film. However, I found the Christmas elements a bit sparse and would have loved more festive moments. Additionally, the romance could have benefited from more playful interactions or a deeper storyline to make the connection between Summer and Ryan more engaging.

57 Candy Cane Points 🎄

27 - A Christmas Break – Cindy Sampson – Addison & Steve Byers – Dylan

High school principal Addison, played by Cindy Sampson, is facing the challenge of saving her school from closure due to a lack of funding and interest. In a bid to turn things around, she contacts her former high school boyfriend, Dylan, portrayed by Steve Byers, who has since become a Hollywood movie star. Addison asks Dylan to help direct the school's Christmas play. Dylan, dealing with bad publicity from his ex-girlfriend's scathing book, agrees to assist. His decision is motivated both by a desire to repair his image and lingering feelings for Addison. As they work together, old sparks reignite, leading to a rekindled romance.

Opinion

Sampson and Byers delivered solid performances in their individual roles, but their chemistry as a romantic couple fell flat, coming across more like a close friendship. The decorations felt underwhelming, with sparse holiday touches that diminished the Christmas atmosphere—noticeable particularly when the camera pulled back. While the story itself was sweet and heartwarming, it lacked the festive vibes that would have made it truly engaging as a holiday film.

56 Candy Cane Points 🎄

28 – Christmas plus one – – Emily Alatalo – Cara & Corey Sevier – Micheal

The story centres around two sisters, Amy and Cara, who make annual Christmas wishes. One year, they both wish for their soulmates. The following Christmas, Amy is preparing to marry Chris, though she seems to be compromising her personality to fit into his world. Meanwhile, Cara rushes home to New York for the wedding, meeting Chase during a chance encounter at the airport. They bond during a shared car ride, and Cara invites him to the wedding. However, her phone is accidentally destroyed by a passerby, Michael, causing her to lose Chase’s contact information.

Determined to reconnect, Cara devises a plan to frequent Christmas-themed spots Chase mentioned. At one of these spots, she encounters Michael again. Feeling guilty about the phone, he agrees to accompany her to Christmas events as her stand-in date while researching an article about Christmas in New York. As they spend time together, romance blossoms, with Michael encouraging Cara to pursue her dream of becoming a graphic designer.

Meanwhile, Chase, also searching for Cara, leaves his number at a café. The café owner, who has witnessed Cara’s growing connection with Michael, gives the number to Michael instead. Though Michael intends to tell Cara, interruptions prevent him, and when Cara discovers the truth, she feels betrayed. She reconnects with Chase but realizes her feelings for Michael are stronger.

In parallel, Michael faces a turning point in his career, being encouraged to write a novel. Despite their fallout, Cara and Michael reconcile, leading to a happy ending in true holiday movie fashion.

Opinion

The movie is a charming holiday romance with plenty of festive spirit, featuring classic Christmas activities like carolling, snowman building, and tree decorating. While the actors are pleasant, the chemistry between the leads feels somewhat lacking. However, the film successfully conveys themes of self-discovery and pursuing one’s dreams. Amy's subplot about staying true to herself amidst wedding preparations is handled gently, adding emotional depth. Although predictable, the movie's warmth and holiday cheer make it an enjoyable watch for fans of the genre.

56 Candy Cane Points 🎄

29 – Christmas Island – Hallmark – Andrew Walker – Oliver & Rachel Skarsten – Kate

Kate, a female pilot, lands her dream job flying a wealthy family to Switzerland. However, when a storm forces the plane to reroute, Kate is instructed by air traffic controller Oliver (played by Walker) to land at the nearest airport, which turns out to be in Canada. Kate's light-hearted joke over the radio irritates the cranky Oliver. The family is not pleased with the unexpected detour, especially the self-centred mother, who unfairly blames Kate for the inconvenience. To make amends, Kate offers to help, and the family tasks her with looking after their children.

The closest accommodation is in a charming village called Christmas Island, which coincidentally is where Oliver lives. Despite their rocky introduction, Oliver eventually shows a more enjoyable side, revealing himself as the town's biggest fan of Christmas. Kate, who neither knows much about nor cares for Christmas, seeks Oliver’s help in entertaining the children through various festive activities.

With hotels fully booked, Kate stays with the town’s mayor, who happens to be Oliver’s sister. Meanwhile, the wealthy family finds lodging with Oliver’s father, Jim Macleod (played by Peter MacNeill). The town’s Christmas spirit and activities become a central part of the story, as the characters find themselves gradually bonding in this idyllic setting

Opinion

The movie has its charms, particularly in Walker’s performance as Oliver. After his cranky introduction, his character grows on you and becomes a delightful part of the story as the Christmas-loving townsperson. Peter MacNeill, as always, delivers an enjoyable performance as Oliver’s father, adding warmth and humour to the film. Jefferson Sharp also does well as the wealthy father, managing to be likable despite his somewhat inattentive nature toward his children.

The Christmas activities woven throughout the film were a highlight, capturing the festive spirit that makes this genre enjoyable. However, the chemistry between the leads felt lacking, and the female lead’s character was just okay. Additionally, the mother’s self-centred and cranky demeanour was off-putting, although her character did improve slightly as the story progressed.

This film fits neatly into the mold of Christmas movies where one character is a Christmas enthusiast and the other is more indifferent, eventually leading to a heartwarming conversion. While enjoyable, it’s a formula that has been executed more effectively in other films.

55 Candy Cane Points 🎄

30 – Unforgettable Christmas – Celeste Desjardins – Princess Colette & Brett Donahue – Wilson James

Princess Colette, played by Celeste Desjardins, is next in line for the throne (though it’s unclear which throne). She has a passion for fashion and dreams of becoming a fashion designer. As part of her royal duties, she is tasked with organizing a Christmas fashion gala. This year, the designs for the gala are being created by her idol in the fashion world, Wilson James.

When Princess Colette visits Wilson’s fashion house to discuss the event, she slips, hits her head, and develops amnesia. At the same time, Wilson is expecting a new assistant named Adele. Mistaking Colette for Adele, Wilson welcomes her into the role, and due to her amnesia, Colette assumes she must be Adele too.

Wilson’s sister, Izzy, who also works with him, quickly realizes that Colette is not Adele, as Izzy handles all the hiring. Despite this, Izzy inexplicably decides to keep Colette’s secret. Even when Colette admits she has no idea who she really is because of her amnesia, they agree to hide the truth from Wilson.

In her new role as Wilson’s assistant, Colette helps with his Christmas fashion line, which is considered controversial (although the controversy isn’t clearly explained). Amid their work on the gala, a romance blossoms between Colette and Wilson.

Unfortunately, I found it hard to connect with the characters. The romantic moments felt superficial and forced, and the plot itself lacked logic. For instance, the decision to keep Wilson in the dark about Colette’s amnesia was unconvincing. The explanation that revealing the truth would stress Wilson out before the gala felt weak, especially since the agreement to keep it a secret was made before Colette even began working with him.

The Christmas elements in the film were limited. While there were plenty of Christmas trees and decorations that added some festive atmosphere, other holiday-themed moments, like snowman building and a Christmas ring toss game, were fleeting. The most “Christmassy” aspect was the clothing line, which mostly featured Christmas colours.

Although titled An Unforgettable Christmas, this movie felt quite forgettable to me.

54 Candy Cane Points 🎄

31– A Fabled Holiday – Brook D’Orsay  - Talia & Ryan Paevey  - Anderson

Talia and Anderson, two childhood best friends, used to cherish reading a magical fairytale about the enchanting village of Wunderbrook. Years later, they reunite and unexpectedly stumble upon a quaint village that bears an uncanny resemblance to the Wunderbrook of their favourite story. As they explore the charming village, romance begins to blossom between them. Meanwhile, others drawn to the village also share a mysterious connection to the same fairytale. The town, seemingly alive with Christmas spirit, helps its visitors rediscover their dreams and purpose. 

Opinion

The movie delivers an abundance of Christmas cheer, with festive trees, seasonal activities, and beautiful decorations that capture the holiday spirit. I particularly related to Talia, the main character, as a dreamy writer and bookstore owner often reminded to be more grounded. Additionally, Ryan Paevey, one of my favourite Hallmark actors, added a delightful charm to the story. 

However, I didn’t enjoy the voice-over narration, which felt unnecessary. The subplot involving a couple on the verge of divorce felt like a downer and detracted from the otherwise cheerful tone of a Christmas movie, even though their resolution was heartwarming. The concept of the village as a mysterious "conspiracy" to fulfill people's dreams was intriguing but came across as strange and somewhat unsettling. Additionally, the storyline involving James, a surgeon on leave dealing with personal struggles, added another sombre element that felt out of place in a holiday film.

53 Candy Cane Points 🎄

32 - The Heiress of Christmas – Katerina Maria – Loryn & David Pinard – Aiden

Loryn, a spoiled heiress and granddaughter of the owner of a large retail department store called Hamptons, is forced to work as a shop assistant to secure her inheritance. Initially dismissive of her tasks, Loryn struggles with Christmas-related duties, such as building gingerbread houses and delivering gifts. Her lack of effort causes friction with Aiden, the store manager.

Over time, Loryn’s attitude improves, and Aiden begins to warm up to her as they work together. The store's festive atmosphere, community outreach through gift delivery, and holiday traditions help soften Loryn’s character, leading to personal growth and a tentative connection between her and Aiden.

Opinion

The film offers a pleasant holiday backdrop with its abundant decorations and charming Christmas-themed tasks, but the main romance feels lacklustre. The chemistry between Loryn and Aiden is minimal, and their characters aren’t particularly compelling. However, the movie shines in its heartfelt moments, such as the gift delivery scenes, and the strong support cast. Nadine Whiteman (Freda) and Rothaford Gray (Danny) bring humour and sweetness to their roles, making their subplot more engaging than the central story. While the movie wasn't entirely to my taste, the festive setting and decorations were delightful.

47 Candy Cane Points 🎄

33 – A Christmas Secret – Bethany Joy Lenz – Christine & John Reardon - Jason

Christine Eisley’s life is in turmoil: she’s lost her job, is on the brink of eviction, and her ex-husband Brad is pushing for custody of their children, Zach and Haley. Amid the chaos, Christine misplaces a cherished family heirloom—a star-shaped locket given to her by her father before he disappeared from her life. Things take a turn when she helps elderly Judy, a local shop owner, during a medical emergency, unknowingly crossing paths with Judy’s grandson Jason, a former Wall Street professional now helping modernize his grandparents' Christmas shop.

While initially misjudging Jason, Christine starts a new job at a deli and slowly begins to rebuild her life. Jason, meanwhile, bonds with her children, particularly Zach, who dreams of becoming a baseball player. As Christine uncovers a hidden family secret linked to her missing heirloom, her fortunes shift, bringing love and renewed hope just in time for Christmas.

Opinion:

This Hallmark movie fell short of expectations. While viewers often look to these films for light-hearted romance and holiday cheer, this story was overshadowed by heavy themes such as divorce, custody battles, medical crises, and personal setbacks. The romance and happiness only emerged in the final moments, leaving much of the movie feeling overly sombre for a Christmas story.

Though the actors Bethany Joy Lenz and John Reardon brought depth to their roles, the film struggled to deliver a strong Christmas vibe beyond its setting in a Christmas shop and a few festive moments. For those seeking uplifting and joyful holiday escapism, this movie might feel too heavy-handed despite its eventual happy ending.

44 Candy Cane Points 🎄

 Plus Destination Christmas but the review was erased and I do not remember what I wrote - It would be at number 18