Holiday in the Vineyards

This plot is what you expect. But, the writing is truly adult conversations with grown up relationship witticisms. Not the tripe of Hallmark. We both enjoyed it and it was nice to hear clever dialogue. There's a talented cast (even the kids seemed to appeared as you'd expect). The two main actors are definitely winners and worth checking out. And the secondary actors are strong in their own right. They provide the comical aspect. The story kept the banker way in the background so you don't see any ludicrous across the desk back and forth or whining. A couple hours of fun and easy enjoyment. If you are into romantic comedies you should definitely give this one a look.

Isn't this basically the same as A California Christmas?

Regardless, I quite enjoyed the film.

I liked the leads, and their personal development was believable and not exaggerated. Also the kids, for once, were not annoying, kudos to the young actors.

There was actually some decent comedy. And there was bit more heart, warmth, diversity, and realistic emotions than usually.

Christmas bonus (points) because it wasn't the woman who has to swap her career for small town living - which the usual annoying trope.

And since I enjoy a good glass of red at Christmas, the wine-making plot worked just fine for me.

All and all, a very pleasant way to pass out the time.

I love an upbeat festive film but they can be a wee bit twee so I was pleasantly surprised by something that felt relative to today's world and not just a throwback to old school mills n boon romance. Great chemistry between all cast, rounded characters a female lead you could have a good girls night out with, and a very funny (and ripped!) male co-star. Sure there's some schmaltzy bits but hey, it's a Christmas rom com so that's kinda required, but it's all thoroughly entertaining and the script and acting elevated it above the bog standard formulaic afternoon movies which are fine to pass the time, but this is better :-) raise your glasses and sample some delicious festive fun.

I came across this little gem on a Sunday evening, when the thought of Monday morning could be made worse by watching a heavy foreign film, or a badly scripted movie or series. From the beginning I was taken by the leading man, the rich spoilt kid who doesn't take responsibility for his life and is forever being berated by his hard-core business oriented mother. Of course, the plot is predictable. When his mother wants to buy a vineyard using underhanded methods, she sends her wayward to son to spy on the vineyard, under the guise of a lowly normal person. Of course he meets a girl, of course he changes, buts that's what we want from our rom=coms - what elevates this one is the witty, sincere script and the lovely performances. Omar Gooding, was a joy to watch as was the rest of the cast.

I thoroughly enjoyed. Good Sunday evening fun!!!!

So I did admittedly enjoy the California Christmas series. This just seemed too much like it though except no Manny, no butler, and 2 kids in tow. They kept a mother element and the wine thing even the ringtone. Helps that the leads are attractive but this isn't all that different except he's faking carpenter instead of ranch hand. Even the dad passing away element transferred over. I guess if you're just looking for some mindless Christmas movie fun then I suppose this will fit the bill. If you watched and enjoyed his California Christmas movies then this one should be fine and watchable. If not there are a plethora of other films to pick...Biltmore Christmas was fun.