inkblot11 Review of A Dog Named Christmas

A Dog Named Christmas (2009 TV Movie)

So beautiful this film is, don't wait to share it with your loved ones

[5 March 2013]

Todd McCray (Noel Fisher) is a mentally disabled twenty year old who lives with his parents in a rural area out west. His father, George (Bruce Greenwood) is stern but loving while his mother Mary Ann (Linda Emond) encourages Todd daily with hugs and praise. Since the farm has animals, Todd helps his father in the barn most days. In fact, Todd adores creatures and nurses wounded hawks back to health, among other activities. Unhappily for the young adult, however, is that his father refuses to let his son have a dog, which is what Todd desires most. George, you see, was in a combat zone and cared for a stray dog in the company. After George was wounded, the dog disappeared and he never saw the canine again. Thus, Mr. McCray's deep-rooted sorrows are the reason for his stubbornness. One holiday season, however, Todd learns that the nearest animal shelter is encouraging folks to adopt an animal just for the Christmas season, as some of the staff will be traveling and such. George gives his consent for Todd to take a dog home but tells his son over and over that they will be returning the dog on December 26. This doesn't dampen Todd's excitement! He picks out a golden retriever and names the dog Christmas. Soon, the animal is doing tricks and following Todd everywhere. He even saves some barn animals from disaster. Will George truly make Todd give the dog up? This very beautiful movie will enchant anyone and everyone who sees it. The story is first rate, displaying strong doses of reality and love. Fisher, too, is absolutely wonderful as the disabled son while Greenwood, Emond and the rest back him up in fine fashion. Also, the setting is most lovely while the direction securely draws the viewer to watch avidly until the credits. There are many holiday films, indeed, to entertain potential fans. But, few are as terrific as this Hallmark Hall of Fame winner.