'The Christmas House' did sound like a lovely film on paper. While 2020 was not a consistent year for Hallmark when it came to their Christmas films, and actually their films in general, there were some real surprise gems that were so much better than expected. Was a bit worried about it being too predictable and that it would be a more of the same Christmas in the family sort of film that has been seen a good deal recently with varied success.
As said, 2020 did see some real surprises in a good way in what was an inconsistent (not unexpected, as all their years are that and also the terrible unforeseen circumstances) year for Hallmark. 'The Christmas House' is towards being one of the best of theirs from the year and was more refreshing and entertaining than most of them too. Am one of those that absolutely welcomed the inclusion of diversity and it was handled in good taste in placement and representation, not thrown in or shoved in the face. Do wish though on a side note that the subplot in question, which was a relatable one, was bigger.
It has a couple of slow-ish stretches early on and the whole mother and father relationship is rushed and resolved too patly. Formula wise, it is predictable.
Did think that there could have been a few less subplots and more time could have been devoted to fleshing out character motivations more, especially the reason for the planned separation which is agreed too vague.
Everything else however is on point. While Robert Buckley appeals in his role and has a lot of likeability, Treat Williams and Sharon Lawrence are even better, emotive and with a real feel for the lighter touch when needed. Lawrence has a very difficult character to like, but she doesn't make a control freak sort of character cartoonish and it's not too unrealistic a representation of this kind of person. The characters aren't too perfect but to me their flaws weren't too heavily exaggerated at the same time. The acting chemistry is sincere and natural.
Personally did think that 'The Christmas House' looked reasonably attractive, the at times tacky decorations aside. Especially the scenery, and the music has a pleasant and nostalgic quality that doesn't become overdone, over-emphasised or too syrupy. The direction was sympathetic but still gave the film momentum when necessary. The dialogue is heartfelt, thoughtful and flows well without being self-indulgent or too flowery. Was surprised at how refreshingly funny some of it was and how smile-worthy delivered it was. The storytelling is far from perfect, but it wasn't dull, was warm hearted, had heart and didn't become too contrived or overly sugary sweet in my view. Some of the situations were not too hard to relate to and were generally fun and heartfelt, even if lack of clarity and ridiculousness creeped in at points.
Concluding, not my definition of great but better than most of the 2020 Hallmark Christmas films. 7/10.
