A Dickens of a Holiday!

I love Kristoffer Polaha, but Brooke D'Orsay hasn't been my favorite Hallmark actress. This story gives them both a chance to shine. While it contains elements of your typical Hallmark plot - career crises, actor wanting to stretch, sibling issues, secret crushes, and a show to save - it still seems refreshing. Well done, Hallmark. Find another great story for Brooke.

Although the story here is sort of typical for this type of movie, the acting from both leads is the real story. I've always liked both actors but Kristoffer Polaha shows some acting chops in this movie, I didn't realize he had. There was a simple scene, where he literally drew a tear. His part was very very well done.

Brooke D'Orsay does a great job with her part as well. Her character is sweet, caring and very good at her job, despite having some problems of her own. In spite of what some others have thought, I found their chemistry to be strong.

This one is WELL worth watching!

Divorcée, Cassie, is directing her hometown of Dickens, Ohio's production of A Christmas Carol. It's the one hundredth anniversary and this year has to be spectacular. Her first major problem...she looses her Scrooge. The mayor wants major Hollywood action star and hometown native, Jake.

Jake is desperate to get a serious role, but they won't even let him read for it. He wants the lead role in a drama based on his deceased mother's favorite book. So, home to Dickens he goes to play the very serious role of Scrooge under Cassie's direction.

Cassie and Jake have a bit of a past in that he asked her to the prom...and she said no. A little unrequited love.

This is a second chance holiday romance with Kristopher Polaha, who I have grown to love in the Mystery 101 series. I think I would watch him in anything. He is charming, funny and always engaging.

Sweet must see for the holidays.

These are two leads who can actually act and I always enjoy so it's great Hallmark finally paired them together. The story is fun and as realistic as this type of fare can be. You actually care which is a rarity w Hallmark. Both characters are endearing and have chemistry for a change! They actually touch the way couples do in first blush of love. It's sweet and sappy in a fun holiday spirit way. Best in show.

I like the leads in this movie.

Kris Polaha always seems to be enjoying himself. Here he has a chance to go way over the top, but he doesn't lose his way in the process.

Brooke D'Orsay is always gorgeous and sweet, and she displays some fine acting here.

The chemistry, while not perfect, is certainly adequate, and they play off each other nicely.

Good supporting cast, although I thought the long-simmering feud was resolved a little too easily.

All in all one of the more enjoyable movies this year.