Expectations were a bit mixed to not being overly excited. Love Christmas and many Christmas films and Lifetime have done their fair share of above average and more Christmas efforts. They also had some big duds, and the premise was another one that could have been executed very charming or disastrously. The previous film seen starring Cindy Sampson, which was seen close to this, was 'A Christmas Crush', which was a major misfire as was Sampson's performance.
'A Christmas Break' was a pleasant surprise and better than expected. 2020 was another mixed year for Lifetime, but a lot better than the previous year's Christmas output, and 'A Christmas Break' is in the better category. It is a significantly better film than 'A Christmas Crush' in every single way and Sampson's performance is leagues better here. Is it a great film? No. Is it worth watching? Absolutely yes, and one of the recently seen Christmas films that surprised me a lot.
Sure, the plot is nothing special formula-wise and in terms of how it maps out. It's another film that is a bit of a slow starter, where it takes time to set up and the dialogue is on the awkward side.
Did think that some of the conflict was a bit forced and that the ending was too neatly resolved.
Having said all of this, 'A Christmas Break' succeeds in many areas. Visually, the film is professional looking rather than looking on the cheap, the scenery is lovely. The music is not used too much and has an appropriate sound. The direction shows somebody at ease with the genre and while there is nothing innovative it's not routine or dull either. Sampson is, as said, leagues better than in 'A Christmas Crush', much more comfortable and has a lot more charm and personality. Steve Byers is a likeable partner to her and while their chemistry is warm and genuine he's a real charmer in his chemistry with Adrian Vissers.
The characters were ones worth rooting for, they may not be complex but they at least have personality and the personalities are interesting and appealing. No overblown character flaws. Furthermore, a great job is done with the Christmas atmosphere, where it does feel like Christmas and in an affectionate way. Some lovely Christmas touches and there are some very sweet, but not sickly, scenes. Was not crazy about the script early on, but it did have a nice mix of funny and poignant lines. The story may be thin but has a warm heart and charm and doesn't take itself too seriously.
In conclusion, a pleasant surprise. 7/10.
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