The Gift That Gives

Joy Hopwood unpacks tricky adult relationships and subtly explores mental health and balancing emotional accountability through interpersonal connections, neatly wrapping it up as "The Gift That Gives".

Characters are grounded and have realistic backstories fleshed out just enough to be relatable in stakes and chemistry, that really pay off in the end.

Cheeky elements are here without taking away from the drama with the much loved and missed late Lex Marinos delivering his signature comedic relief in his scenes in his last role as Lawrence.

Despite having a teenage Disney like depth, the film hits all it's marks with a positive message and deserves more credit for Joy's unique approach in these complex modern times is indeed wholesome warm hug.

We are spoiled by all the classic American white Christmas films and aside from missing a musical number I only unrealistically ask for snow in this film, but don't let that take away from your experience of the Christmas Joy theme.

Another low budget Australian film. The story was quite good but the acting was atrocious. I'll stick to watching good old American movies. If you want a bit of background noise while doing the dishes or vacuuming this movie fits the bill. I don't see why Australian movie makers can't find a decent budget and get some decent actors to make some decent movies. Any decent actors like Mel Gibson and Russell Crowe head off to America where they get paid what they are worth. All things considered. I would give this movie, a big miss and stick to watching American or Canadian movies instead of this Australian rubbish.

Sometimes you just want a wholesome story about characters navigating their life and relationships, and this is where this film delivers.

You find yourself rooting for all the characters and the themes of the struggle of finding success in the creative industry in relatable to many, and it's a nice change of pace that it's implied that success is found through working and supported each other as opposed to competition (which is in keeping with the overall wholesomeness of it all)

It fits nicely with many other Christmas films (although the Australian element is always a nice touch, again, nice to see an Xmas movie taking place in the Summer!)

What an enjoyable way to spend a Sunday afternoon. This movie was sweet, easy to watch and covered many topics which effect all of us, family, love, illness, work and appearances. No swearing or violence, but a message that should resonate with all of us - kindness to our fellow man! And with a few giggles along the way this movie was well rounded and had something for everyone. Loved the music, the aussie scenery and how the importance of friendship was portrayed. Well done Joy House Productions!!

I so enjoyed the Rhapdsody of Love and the Gift that Gives is another fine example of the writing, producing and directing talent. Can't wait to see what's next!!!

My favourite film by Joy House Production yet! A feel-good romance story that invites viewers into the world of grassroots success, intertwined with unexpected love tales that shine a light on the beautiful richness and diversity we are lucky to have in modern-day Australia. The optimistic lens the film is filtered through is a refreshing change. Kudos to Joy and the Cast for investing the passion they did into this story. The production elements come together beautifully and it's encouraging to see how the Director's vision can bring opportunity to talent that allows everyone to continue developing their craft...now that's a Gift that's worth giving! Excited to see what comes next from Joy Hopwood and her team :)