From make-believe relationships (e.g., Holidate, Midnight at the Magnolia, Happiest Season), princess switches and royals incognito (e.g., The Princess Switch: Switched Again, A Royal Christmas Engagement), to fake five-star bed and breakfast staff (Five Star Christmas), deception and mistaken identity have been a very popular plot device in this year's Christmas movie lineup. Here again, in this film, we see this plot technique in use, though, arguably, having less of an impact than some of the movies listed above. Indeed, this movie fell flat a bit, I thought. Do not get me wrong, the story was pleasant, and the script/dialogue was decent (with some positive underlining messages). The acting was strong too. However, I felt this one lacked that 'something extra' as, for example, The Angel (which had great chemistry between the leads), A Timeless Christmas (which told a different story), Five Star Christmas and The Christmas House (which made me laugh), and The Christmas Waltz (which had some lovely dancing). Thus, I would describe this one as 'good enough'. That said, the acting overall was good. Candace Cameron Bure, a Hallmark regular, had a convincing performance. Her scene at the end, for example, when confronting Glenn about his deception was strong. Warren Christie's portrayal of Glenn was good, believable. The chemistry between the two was OK. Not the best I have seen this season, but certainly not the worst. The supporting cast had a strong performance. I enjoyed watching Brenda Crichlow (as Winona, the CFO) and Robert Markus (as Riley, the art instructor). The scenery, props, and sets were well-polished and festive, classic Hallmark. There was not as much focus on Christmas traditions in this one, which is not necessarily a bad thing (not another gingerbread house scene please). Simply put, this is an ordinary Christmas movie. Worth a watch if you have time to kill or if you are a fan of Candace Cameron Bure's Hallmark movies.
55 Reviews
Chemistry :)
dimwinne27 December 2021
Wauw :) these 2 have lots of chemistry. And that's what makes all these movies more than watchable. The chemistry and if there's something more to the story. And the acting was more than decent. I thought CCB was a great match with her fellow pet doctor from fuller house but this tv match was even better :) Sometimes it's even too bad they already have a spouse :)
a surprising miss for Candace Cameron Bure
gmac141058 December 2020
I never thought I would say this about a Hallmark Christmas movie, but...this one just wasn't Christmas-y enough!! It definitely felt like the movie was written and then the Hallmark execs went back and added in the Christmas elements at the last minute. The plot really could have worked any time of year.
In addition to that, I just didn't find the movie that interesting and had trouble following who each character was working for (the foundation? the charity? the PR firm?) and what his or her position there was. Also, I figured out the "twist" in the first 5 minutes. I'm usually a fan of Candace Cameron's Christmas movies, so this one was a disappointment for me.
In addition to that, I just didn't find the movie that interesting and had trouble following who each character was working for (the foundation? the charity? the PR firm?) and what his or her position there was. Also, I figured out the "twist" in the first 5 minutes. I'm usually a fan of Candace Cameron's Christmas movies, so this one was a disappointment for me.
Cute
fctcsarahcross3 January 2021
This was another feel good Candace Christmas movie. I did notice a mistake in the script. When Darcy (Candace) is in the bar waiting to meet the CEO (who she's actually speaking to already), he asked her why she's visiting? She says oh I've always wanted to visit New England at Christmas time. However, they are in New York which is not part of New England.
Loved all the Oz References!
kz917-14 January 2021
I'll admit several of the CCB movies have grated my last nerve, I swear some years they churn them out like butter! But this one was different, I actually liked it. Once I realized there were continuous references to the Wizard of Oz, it was a game to ferret them out. I would actually watch it again, because I think I missed some of the nuggets in the beginning of the film! Cute, funny. A Christmas movie experience like Where's Waldo trying to find all the Ozian Threads!
If I Only Had Christmas
JoBloTheMovieCritic11 December 2020
Frank L. Baum Called...
rustydalek-3791131 May 2021
Warning: Spoilers
As much as I hate the constant parade of watered-down, modernized Jane Austen rip-offs Hallmark offers up, I at least understand why they use those stories. Romance is a key factor in the novels, after all. Strangley enough, however, this particular Christmas film has chosen to abandon retreading familiar romance novels and decided to rip-off "The Wizard of Oz", a story which is not about Christmas or romance. The result is baffling rom-com filled with bland office spaces, oddly chipper side characters, and weird, throw-away references to Frank L. Baum's tale. Many typical Hallmark shenanigans ensue, the most ridiculous being two adults having a stilted dance number in the middle of a children's Christmas show. All in all, in spite of how likeable Candace Cameron Bure is, this particular Christmas film is simultaneously weird very run-of-the-mill at the same time, and has little merit.
Delightful Christmas Fare
mrmac-425616 November 2021
The leading man in this movie was born in my home town of Belfast but my main reason for watching was the presence of the wonderful Candace Cameron Bure who gave one of her finest performances. It's a feel good movie where the main characters interact so well and you know that everything will work out at the end.
We're Not in Kansas Anymore
bojojoti-971-13013131 December 2020
I enjoyed the Wizard of Oz twist; there are only so many incognito princes roaming NYC (although, Hallmark has me convinced there's one on every street corner), so I'm delighted when a new angle is given to boy meets girl.
The cast was engaging, even the minor supporting roles, and the family interactions were warm and believable. The storyline was a bit muddled, and Darcy's reaction to William's reveal was odd. I realize there has to be conflict in a Hallmark movie, but I wish the writers would dig a little deeper than the standard "overheard something incorrectly," "saw something out of context," or "lied to me" weary tropes.
One of the biggest misses was not showcasing Kansas City at Christmas. For years, my family and I have made the trek to KC to see the beautiful Plaza, Crown Center, and other holiday displays. The Plaza is magical at Christmas, and I'd hoped to see it featured on screen. Nevertheless, the movie was a pleasurable one I'm sure I'll rewatch in order to catch all the Wizard of Oz references I missed the first time.
The cast was engaging, even the minor supporting roles, and the family interactions were warm and believable. The storyline was a bit muddled, and Darcy's reaction to William's reveal was odd. I realize there has to be conflict in a Hallmark movie, but I wish the writers would dig a little deeper than the standard "overheard something incorrectly," "saw something out of context," or "lied to me" weary tropes.
One of the biggest misses was not showcasing Kansas City at Christmas. For years, my family and I have made the trek to KC to see the beautiful Plaza, Crown Center, and other holiday displays. The Plaza is magical at Christmas, and I'd hoped to see it featured on screen. Nevertheless, the movie was a pleasurable one I'm sure I'll rewatch in order to catch all the Wizard of Oz references I missed the first time.
Cut above
evans-154753 December 2021
Either candace gets better quality scripts than other actors or her acting ability and personality some how lifts poor productions, personally I think it's all Candace how she lifts these average plots and makes them her own is amazing,I'd love to hear her reading the telephone directory if that was still a thing.
Interesting effort.
rebekahrox1 December 2020
There sure are a lot of mean reviews for this movie. Sounds like some are trying to knock the ubiquitous Candace off of her Hallmark throne. I am not a huge Candace fan, but she's harmless and she has never looked lovelier than in this tribute to The Wizard of Oz.
I thought it was very cleverly done with the names, the characters, and the situations. There wasn't much of a plot, but at least it wasn't a stale rehash of the same old Hallmark set-pieces. I watched it to the end with not fast-forwarding, and that's worth at least a 6 or a 7. I'm not sure why she got so mad at "Glen Goodman" (Glenda the Good witch,Ha Ha) at the end, but that's just standard procedure to set up the happy ending.
Not the most exciting movie.
jamiecristello1 December 2020
This wasn't the best movie. However, I was a huge "Wizard of Oz" fan when I was little so I basically treated this movie like a game. My mom and I would point out every single "Wizard of Oz" reference and laugh or roll our eyes. THAT is what made this movie more bearable to watch. Haha
beautiful
Kirpianuscus20 November 2021
The first virtue of film is the effort to nuance , using new reflections, the Hallmark recipe for Christmas films. The obvious references to Wizard of Oz is another good point. But, sure, the vibe of film is proposed by charming energy of Candace Cameron Bure. She has the huge skill to explore the humor, innocence and good energies of each role. The role of Darcy is another admirable example.
CCB haters are out in force but it's not that bad
jagfannn1 December 2020
This movie is a huge hat tip to the Wizard of OZ and catching the similarities and nods to the film is fun. You can tell the writers and actors had fun with the OZ aspect of the script with clever references but it may have weakened the rest of the plot. It's an interesting story and it holds your interest through the movie but plays sort of one dimensional. The acting is very good and there is chemistry between the leads but the romance part of the story is a little weak. I think it's well worth watching once though it may not be one you'll watch repeatedly.
All aboard the Candace train?
MickyG33319 December 2022
6.4 stars.
I am sad. :(
Most everyone really loves Candace Cameron Bure, but I cannot say that I share the same sentiment. Most of her characters have the same general personality traits, which include a certain uptight feeling. She can be charming, and nice, and even fun sometimes, but I can't see past the strained, almost unapproachable exterior that is always present with every one of her personalities as an actress. I think her actual personality is what we are seeing in every one of her deliveries. I am going out on a limb with this opinion, and I think many will be offended (by many, I mean 71.4% of the 7 people that ever read this review).
People are saying she improves this movie, makes it hers, takes a bland script, uplifts it, saves the film... without her it would fall flat etc... I disagree. I think she brings some stability to it, but in no way does she improve or uplift it. I think people have gotten used to expecting a certain delivery from her and when they don't get that, they are disappointed. These are the ones who love her. I am not one of those (sorry, I really want to love her but the heart wants what the heart wants...). It is the supporting cast that carry this film to the average place that it rests. They were lively, entertaining, and fun to watch. The lead male (maybe one of the most prolific leading men in Hallmark) did just fine, but nothing special.
Unfortunately, a Christmas movie that focuses 100% on the philanthropy of an unknown CEO is bound to fall flat. We don't know anything about the mysterious "wicked", powerful businessman that's calling all the shots. Who are we battling against, who are we rooting for, what are we fighting for? As soon as I asked myself those questions, I knew exactly how this would end, and I knew what her response would be, and all of this based on some strange and unrealistic set of values that do not exist in our society. Frankly, I wish we had such values, but they would be misplaced. The spirit of a thing is more than the sum of its truthful pieces.
I am sad. :(
Most everyone really loves Candace Cameron Bure, but I cannot say that I share the same sentiment. Most of her characters have the same general personality traits, which include a certain uptight feeling. She can be charming, and nice, and even fun sometimes, but I can't see past the strained, almost unapproachable exterior that is always present with every one of her personalities as an actress. I think her actual personality is what we are seeing in every one of her deliveries. I am going out on a limb with this opinion, and I think many will be offended (by many, I mean 71.4% of the 7 people that ever read this review).
People are saying she improves this movie, makes it hers, takes a bland script, uplifts it, saves the film... without her it would fall flat etc... I disagree. I think she brings some stability to it, but in no way does she improve or uplift it. I think people have gotten used to expecting a certain delivery from her and when they don't get that, they are disappointed. These are the ones who love her. I am not one of those (sorry, I really want to love her but the heart wants what the heart wants...). It is the supporting cast that carry this film to the average place that it rests. They were lively, entertaining, and fun to watch. The lead male (maybe one of the most prolific leading men in Hallmark) did just fine, but nothing special.
Unfortunately, a Christmas movie that focuses 100% on the philanthropy of an unknown CEO is bound to fall flat. We don't know anything about the mysterious "wicked", powerful businessman that's calling all the shots. Who are we battling against, who are we rooting for, what are we fighting for? As soon as I asked myself those questions, I knew exactly how this would end, and I knew what her response would be, and all of this based on some strange and unrealistic set of values that do not exist in our society. Frankly, I wish we had such values, but they would be misplaced. The spirit of a thing is more than the sum of its truthful pieces.
Rating: On the 0-Christmas scale this gets "Lions, and Tigers, and Bears"
realmenlovehallmark5 December 2023
Warning: Spoilers
No matter how good they are, Hallmark movies, especially Christmas movies are always rated a 6.5. At first I was offended, and then I realized that is on par with every Tom Cruise movie ever made. This settled my nerves a bit.
I'm not going to lie. I was excited to watch this flick starring the Queen of Hallmark herself, Mrs. Candy Caramel Baguettes (Candace Cameron Bure). Yes, we actually have a name for her based on nothing in particular. But, name aside, she gets respect. She churns out movies and mysteries like a southern moonshiner his liquor.
This movie was refreshing. It was a break from a Jane Austin spinoff. In this gem we follow Wizard of Oz.
Bure plays Darcy, a Public Relations spinmaster specialist who works with a company to improve their charitable foundation's image. Full of mishaps and foot-in-mouth experiences, Darcy realizes she isn't in Kansas anymore. Yes, literally, Darcy lives in Kansas City, Kansas. Her family dog, Bobo (not Toto). She works for Gumm Public Relations. Coincidently, Judy Garlands real name was Francis Ethel Gumm. Upon arrival at the foundation, Darcy meets three characters who *spoiler* line up with the scarecrow, tin man, and lion. She works with Glen and slowly convinces him to trust her hairbrained ideas.
The rating on this movie is probably right on. It is a feel good movie with the Wizard of Oz theme that makes it familiar. It was quite messy in some places and not one you are going to recommend to your in-laws....or maybe it is...I don't know your in-laws.
I'm not going to lie. I was excited to watch this flick starring the Queen of Hallmark herself, Mrs. Candy Caramel Baguettes (Candace Cameron Bure). Yes, we actually have a name for her based on nothing in particular. But, name aside, she gets respect. She churns out movies and mysteries like a southern moonshiner his liquor.
This movie was refreshing. It was a break from a Jane Austin spinoff. In this gem we follow Wizard of Oz.
Bure plays Darcy, a Public Relations spinmaster specialist who works with a company to improve their charitable foundation's image. Full of mishaps and foot-in-mouth experiences, Darcy realizes she isn't in Kansas anymore. Yes, literally, Darcy lives in Kansas City, Kansas. Her family dog, Bobo (not Toto). She works for Gumm Public Relations. Coincidently, Judy Garlands real name was Francis Ethel Gumm. Upon arrival at the foundation, Darcy meets three characters who *spoiler* line up with the scarecrow, tin man, and lion. She works with Glen and slowly convinces him to trust her hairbrained ideas.
The rating on this movie is probably right on. It is a feel good movie with the Wizard of Oz theme that makes it familiar. It was quite messy in some places and not one you are going to recommend to your in-laws....or maybe it is...I don't know your in-laws.
Zzzzzzzzzz
angelsusan30 November 2020
Didn't care for the story as it was boring and drawn out. Not much to do with Christmas; this could have taken place any time of the year. As for the The Wizard of Oz reference - that's all it was - with some various lines and similar names thrown in for good measure. Expected more from a movie boasting about a spin from such a classic!
A really good feeling film
tmccheyne6 November 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Enjoyable watch. Nice touches. Well worth watching. There is chemistry between the main actors which comes across naturally, no forced expressions here.
Ok it may not have too many surprises but it is also kinda cute with so many references to the Wizard of Oz. Want of a heart, bravery, oh those red shoes lol. Even worth a second watch to get all those recognised.
Ok it may not have too many surprises but it is also kinda cute with so many references to the Wizard of Oz. Want of a heart, bravery, oh those red shoes lol. Even worth a second watch to get all those recognised.
"Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain!"
adamjohns-4257520 November 2021
I always get annoyed that they are planning things for Christmas so late. There is no way that a big corporation would still be prepping for their seasonal events in December. I'm sure if they want to go with this plot line that they could start it at the correct time and actually have them fall in love over a longer period and finish at Christmas or just start the film halfway through the process? It would be more believable that way.
There's a lot of metaphors used, the writer obviously likes using them. It's a shame that they didn't concentrate more on getting the 'Wizard Of Oz' references clearer instead, as many people may have missed them. There could have been more of them too.
It's also a bit twee and overly nice. People just aren't that friendly or good, which is a shame, but it cheapens the product in the end.
I didn't like the fact that Warren Christie had shaved his beard, but he was still hot enough to watch it to the end. Not bad, but it's been done.
4ish.
There's a lot of metaphors used, the writer obviously likes using them. It's a shame that they didn't concentrate more on getting the 'Wizard Of Oz' references clearer instead, as many people may have missed them. There could have been more of them too.
It's also a bit twee and overly nice. People just aren't that friendly or good, which is a shame, but it cheapens the product in the end.
I didn't like the fact that Warren Christie had shaved his beard, but he was still hot enough to watch it to the end. Not bad, but it's been done.
4ish.
Good for hallmark standard
dianamarinelli27 April 2021
Kind of a mess...
IceQueen9930 November 2020
Ten minutes in I thought "Did I tune in an hour late and miss the character development part?" Confusing, mishmash of people you can't connect with and a story line you can't or don't want to relate to. Turned it off after 15 minutes.
Candace is delightful in this holiday romance.
cgvsluis7 January 2022
Kansas City Publicist Darcy, played by the gorgeous and love-able Candace Cameron Bure, is getting a chance to work with a grouchy VP for some much needed good PR.
"I feel so defeated and small."-Darcy
After loosing a publicity award...Darcy decides to put her talents to good use on a charity, Emerald Education Trust.
Darcy loves Christmas and she has a big boisterous family who loves her. She has two good natured brothers, including one who is a teacher along with his wife. They tell her about Emerald Education Trust when she is looking to do some pro-bono work.
"When you have a gift, you don't hide it under a bushel. You shine it where it can do the most good."-Darcy.
Darcy flies in early to meet with the "No" man for Austin, inc. Hoping to change his mind about giving her a chance. Not knowing what he looks like she meets him in the hotel bar and tells him all about himself...referring to him as a bit of a curmudgeon.
"Glen Goodman, vp of communications of Austin, Inc. Local curmudgeon."-Glen
Candace Cameron Bure is as infectious as usual. I think I would watch anything that she is in...She is the best thing on Hallmark. And the humor in the writing was spot on.
"You're just used to charming everyone immediately, that's all."-Emma.
Romantic and lovable, filled with holiday cheer and goodwill.
"I feel so defeated and small."-Darcy
After loosing a publicity award...Darcy decides to put her talents to good use on a charity, Emerald Education Trust.
Darcy loves Christmas and she has a big boisterous family who loves her. She has two good natured brothers, including one who is a teacher along with his wife. They tell her about Emerald Education Trust when she is looking to do some pro-bono work.
"When you have a gift, you don't hide it under a bushel. You shine it where it can do the most good."-Darcy.
Darcy flies in early to meet with the "No" man for Austin, inc. Hoping to change his mind about giving her a chance. Not knowing what he looks like she meets him in the hotel bar and tells him all about himself...referring to him as a bit of a curmudgeon.
"Glen Goodman, vp of communications of Austin, Inc. Local curmudgeon."-Glen
Candace Cameron Bure is as infectious as usual. I think I would watch anything that she is in...She is the best thing on Hallmark. And the humor in the writing was spot on.
"You're just used to charming everyone immediately, that's all."-Emma.
Romantic and lovable, filled with holiday cheer and goodwill.
Terrible
cheried-7325430 November 2020
I'm a huge Candice Bure fan, especially her Christmas movies. This was a BIG disappointment. This top couldn't end fast enough for me. I couldn't relate at all to the characters and found it boring. I love Wizard of Oz but this just didn't work. Sorry but I will not be watching this again. I'll keep watching all of Candice's other Christmas movies.
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