Chazz Palmintari delivers a mostly well thought out plot with a great cast. The story within a story relationship familiarizes characters without their knowledge. Unexpected bits of steamy sexuality. (with a disappointing glimpse into Penelope Cruz's stiff,rhythm-less samba moves) He throws in some surreal experiences that break the stream of sentiments that sort of bombard you in the first half-hour. The feeling of Christmas is real since it was filmed in the actual winter season. I was impressed with the move to a "feeling" part by Paul Walker, I thought his character far from followed suit of the well-to-do thoughtless hunk/hero that he was beginning to be type cast as. Although there are some plot holes, I thought the overall idea behind it was verging on original and the kind of script that makes it a movie to enjoy with you mother.
Review of Noel
