Wenn nicht ein Wunder geschieht

Christmas fantasy about a down on her luck woman (Gugino) who kidnaps her crackhead sister's two small children to keep them out of the hands of DCF. She ends up in a small New England town where a guardian angel (Duke) sets up a series of simple events to protect the trio from harm. David Conrad plays a cop who falls for Gugino, and Lynn Redgrave is the judge who must determine the fate of the three when their secret is found out. Very low-key, with no fancy special effects. Filmed on limited sets, with an imposing stone angel statue hovering over all. This is a people story that doesn't pull any punches when it comes to dealing with the unpleasantries of the doped-up mom (Dern), who is is a criminal hospital while all this is going on. Great direction by Michael Pressman on what looks like a no-budget production. Highly recommended.

This movie is a favorite. An aunt strives to keep her niece and nephew together and are on the move at Christmas. Patty Duke is an angel. It's marvelous!

I really enjoyed this movie. I ordered it online the next day, I wish I had taped it. The movie is in many ways a feel-good holiday movie, but the acting was outstanding by all. Carla Gugino especially did a fabulous job. The only complaint I have about this movie is about the ending. It seemed like everything was wrapped up in the last five minutes, and while I know the movie had to have a happy ending, it was an unrealistic one. But overall, this was a very good drama, I highly recommend it.

This is a wonderful film that, while taking place during the hoildays, is one that can be viewed at any time of the year and be thoroughly enjoyed. I have watched it many times since getting it last December. As with any Hallmark show, the production values are outstanding. Although based on a book by Marilyn Pappano, the teleplay far surpasses the original. All the changes simply made for a better story.

What a great cast of veteran performers - Patty Duke, Laura Dern, Faith Prince, Kathy Baker and Lynn Redgrave in a film stealing role as a judge. Each of the supporting roles are equally effective.

This is a film that could rival "It's A Wonderful Life" as a great holiday (or any time) entertainment.

Yesterday, a relative of mine switched on the Hallmark Channel to watch this movie. While feel-good films are harmless, I find they're often too heavy-handed, predictable, and sappy. So I braced myself.

There was no need to do so.

Alright, the plot is predictable, but in a comfortingly familiar way. The enjoyment lies not in guessing how the movie will end, but how the characters will reach their destinations. This isn't the sort of film to watch if you want an edgy thriller, after all! There are some cheesy moments (as expected from Hallmark), but the seriousness of the family's situation kept the story from being overly sentimental.

The characters are well played. They're likable and have a good sense of humor. The funny moments do much to keep the movie from taking itself too seriously. While the plot is not entirely believable, that does not stop the film from being enjoyable.

This is a film worth adding to the Christmas season watch list; the classic message of hope in the face of hardship is always relevant and is delivered in a touching, charming manner.