Am not somebody who hates Christmas or has a bias against made for television Christmas films. The complete opposite on both counts and have made that clear more than once and will continue to do so if necessary (though am refraining as much as possible from reiterating too much). Evident from a number of positive reviews for the Christmas output of Hallmark and Lifetime. The premise for 'Annie Claus is Coming to Town' did sound quite interesting and seemed at times like it was trying to do something a little different.
Over the past two years or so, my Christmas film completest quest (made up for primarily those from Hallmark and Lifetime) has been very interesting but also hit and miss. Some were very charming, easy to digest and lovely watches with good casts. Others were very dull, cheesy, too sentimental and badly written and acted. 'Annie Claus is Coming to Town' is mostly in the former category, though it is far from perfect or quite my definition of a great film.
Was not that taken with most of the supporting cast. Ryan Bittle for example really goes overboard making his already over the top cliched character as unlikeable as possible and is pretty much a cartoon. Peter Jason is also one of the dullest Santas personally seen and he doesn't look comfortable or like he wanted to be there.
Some of the music could have been toned down and been used more sparingly. Some very shoddy effects work going too.
However, there is a lot in 'Annie Claus is Coming to Town' that works. The best thing about it is a truly sparkling Maria Thayer, who really lights up the screen and is immensely likeable. While her character is very easy to be charmed by, she doesn't make her too perfect seeing as one is on occasion frustrated with figuring out what she sees in Dean. Sam Page is similarly amiable and their chemistry is natural and genuine, though more time could have been devoted to developing it more. The best supporting cast member is Vivica A. Fox, she gives her role energy and also integrity. Most of the characters are executed well.
Effects aside, 'Annie Claus is Coming to Town' looks good. The scenery is truly attractive and photographed with a lot of love. Enough of the music is pleasantly nostalgic and gives off a suitably festive atmosphere when necessary. The script is cohesive and doesn't come over as awkward, it also takes itself seriously without being dreary and the sentimentality doesn't become too much. The story is pretty conventional, but its endless charm, its good nature and warm heart more than more up for that.
In conclusion, not great but still liked it a good deal. 7/10.
