Prancer: A Christmas Tale

Charming and typically British/European Christmas movie which is low budget but doesn't feel that way although certainly there aren't many special effects. I found it while looking for other James Cromwell movies and as with all of his performances this one is beautifully understated. You really can't go wrong with any movie with that man in it - as long as it is in a genre you want to watch. [ie don't blame James Cromwell or the movie if you're not in the mood for or just don't enjoy this kind of film. He's in such diverse roles (I've got Jurassic World on right now and was surprised to see James Cromwell in it. It makes sense given his diverse roles that not all of his movies are going to appeal to the same people. The rest of the cast in this film were good too, and the actress playing the young protagonist Gloria was wonderful. There are many bigger budget Christmas movies with all the lights and sound that don't have the same calibre of acting as this one.

In terms of kids, there's some violence and threatened gun violence (both brief but still..). The language is clean as long as people understand that for most British people the word "bloody" is not a swear word.

Also to avoid confusion, there isn't a sequel to this movie (not yet anyway as of Sept 2025). There's the original Prancer (1989) and the sequel Prancer Returns (2001), and then this one: Prancer:A Christmas Tale (2022). I haven't seen the other two and am inclined not to given what I've read as I don't want to spoil "the feels" from this one.

Recommended viewing for kids and grown-up kids who'll enjoy a touching Christmas story about family, being home, and just a touch of "magic".

I'm scratching my head as to why James Cromwell agreed to act in this. The writing is terrible, characters are flat and unbelievable. The producers seem to rely on cinematography to create something that will win you over.

Most of the acting is cheesy and the story is just meandering garbage. So disappointing.

This might be something you could leave on in the other room for some background noise, or something to entertain young kids if they're bored out of their minds.

Better yet, watch ANY other Christmas movie. Even the worst of cheesy/predictable Hallmark movies would be better than this.

Light hearted, easy to watch family film that leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy inside. Just what a Christmas film should do! The casting is superb, as is the acting especially that of the main character Gloria. The filming is just beautifull, helped by the wonderful scenery, sets and reindeer. The director seems to be so aware of all the emotions needed throughout the film making you feel every moment with the characters from sadness to absolute bliss. As a grandads girl myself I couldn't recommend this film more to anyone, especaill those in need of some festive cheer or a reminder of what's most important.

Bud (James Cromwell) has been a grumpy old man since the death of his beloved wife Betty. He is closing his coffee shop store in this dying town. A reindeer flies over him and he crashes his truck. Claire (Sarah-Jane Potts) is coming home from London with her daughter Gloria (Darcey Ewart). Her brother wants to put Bud in an old-age home.

I love the grandpa granddaughter relationship. As for Prancer, I like the mystery of the first half. The magic is a bit underwhelming. I was expecting a ride to the North Pole, or finding a magical portal in the woods. I don't think switching on the lights is as awe-inspiring as it's being shown to be. That's the only disappointment in an otherwise sweet family film. I really like this kid and James Cromwell always delivers.

Loved this warm hearted Christmas film. Quite funny in places although a bit predictable as most Christmas films are but well made all the same.

James Cromwell & the rest of the cast are great & left us both with warm Christmassy feelings. It really did what it said on the tin.

So much better than this years Lindsay Lohan Christmas film effort which i thought was cheesy & lame.

The young actress who played the little girl was absolutely delightful.

Left us thoroughly entertained without having to think too much which is what you want when you need a film to relax to.

We highly recommend this film.