Really was intrigued by the premise, while the structure is not a new one in film overall it is different and unconventional for Hallmark. Which was appreciated, after seeing so many Hallmark Christmas films overtime that follow a similar formula. There have been understandable comparisons to 'Love Actually', which will intrigue anybody that likes that film (myself included, duck). And while Hallmark's festive efforts fit in the quite big in quantity average and less group, there are winners as well.
'Write Before Christmas' on the most part is one of those winners. It is a refreshing change of pace for Hallmark, and is not too predictable a film surprisingly in its own right as well. As far as the 2019 Christmas films go, 'Write Before Christmas' is one of the better ones in my view. When comparing it with other Christmas films of Hallmark too, it fares pretty favourably as well. It's not a great or flawless film but it was a very charming watch and kudos to it in trying to do something different.
Lets get the not so good things out of the way. Do agree with somebody else that 'Write Before Christmas' does feel over-plotted at times. The film does not have a dull moment and is eventful, but considering the number of subplots and characters this is a Hallmark film that would actually have benefitted from doing less. Having not as many subplots and as many characters, and developing what and who was left more would have helped.
The dialogue is not always great, some awkwardness and cheese at times early on. Like most Hallmark films, there are parts that feel over-scored and the ending is over too soon and wrapped up too neatly.
However, there are a lot of things that 'Write Before Christmas' does well. The production values still manage to be pleasing. It's not too drab or garish in photography, the editing didn't seem rushed or disorganized and the scenery has a real charm to it. Enough of the script is thoughtful and doesn't come over as sickly sweet or cheesy. The direction is accommodating while also having enough momentum.
A further big benefit is the acting, Torrey DeVitto is appealing in the female lead role as is Chad Michael Murray (who shows that he has grown as an actor compared to the teenage heart-throb roles he did fifteen plus years ago) in his. Lolita Davidovitch amuses and charms. While there are too many subplots, 'Write Before Christmas' does better than expected at balancing them and connecting them together, the light-hearted heart-warming tone being consistent. The characters aren't meaty but were still not too hard to get behind.
Concluding, not great and a bit too cluttered but quite well done and pleasant. 7/10
