This is not coming from somebody that hates Christmas or has a bias against Hallmark. They did make quite a number of average and less films, but also quite a number of above average and more ones. Hallmark Christmas films do have a tendency more often than not to be very predictable, cliched, very cheesy, too schmaltzy and over-scored. There have been many times where they have also been very cute, warm hearted, heartfelt, charming and appealingly acted.
As much as there was the genuine want of 'Christmas at Pemberley Manor' to be in the latter category, it sadly didn't do much for me. Which does sadden me a good deal, because clearly very formulaic the premise did sound charming. It has good points and is a long way from being one of Hallmark's worst, but sadly 'Christmas at Pemberley Manor' has nearly all the negative qualities mentioned above and came over as mediocre.
'Christmas at Pemberley Manor' is not a complete humbug. It is graced by an immensely likeable Michael Rady, who doesn't make his character too perfect or overplay his weaknesses. As well as a scene stealing Elaine Hendrix who was clearly enjoying herself (despite playing one of the most cliched types of characters in the book of cliches).
It looks pretty good, especially the manor. Which looks beautiful and is like a character of its own (exteriors and interiors). The photography is never too drab or over-saturated. There is a nice festive atmosphere at times.
Jessica Lowndes however didn't cut it for me sadly in the female lead role. The performance just felt rather affected and also lacking in expression, plus her character is dull and never goes beyond a typical Hallmark cliche that doesn't really grow all that much. She and Rady have very little chemistry together, what little there is doesn't charm or sparkle at all and the relationship itself lacks development. Didn't really buy their love and there is not much conflict or anything that leads to it, so it felt like it came out of the blue. The supporting cast try but can't do much with very sketchy typical roles, nobody is annoying but nobody is interesting enough.
When it comes to the dialogue, it is very awkward in flow and there is no heart to it. Both the cheese and sentiment go overboard, and because of disliking the characters so much there was nothing in 'Christmas at Pemberley Manor' to connect with emotionally. The story is not much of one at all for most of the length, much of the first portion is endless and pointless filler and what there is of the story is very dull, excessively predictable and at times silly. The too neat and contrived ending can be seen from miles off. The direction is routine on the whole and will agree that the music is overbearing.
Overall, lacklustre but not terrible. 4/10
