Le Chœur de Noël

It is one of beautiful surprises. For story and for voices, for Scott Wolf and Eric Close, for atmosphere and, more important, for the message. But, especially, for Kristin Chenoweth giving to her character lovely, inspired brillance. The delicate themes are well used, to. And the twist just works. A film about parenthood, vocation, music, Christmas. Not great but surprising, in good sense, in profound sense. A beautiful film about things real important. And Chistmas in the fair light of emotions and options embroidery.

Kristin Chenoweth's petite self is as gorgeous as ever! She plays Katherine a single former Broadway star turned music teacher/youth choir director who gave up a child for adoption some eighteen years prior so her child would be happy and have a better life. A high school senior volunteers for extra credit to help with the youth choir...but what was to be a one day volunteer job ends up becoming so much more when Katherine hears him sing and is impressed with his raw talent. While picking up the holiday concert wings across town she meets Greg in a ride share who turns out to be our volunteer, Danny's father. Greg is a widower and ends up needing convincing to let Danny sing in the choir, concerned that Danny will be distracted from his goal of applying for colleges...Greg is initially reluctant. This prompts Katherine to drive to their home in Connecticut, where she spends a weekend doing non-city traditional Christmas activities and convincing Greg to let Danny Sing in their Christmas concert. Greg and Katherine start to develop a believable relationship...supported by their warm friends, both his and hers.

"She's not the most subtle, but I'd be lost without her."

There was a really good supporting cast and it was nice to see people treating each other well and being in long term healthy, supportive relationships.

There were some great Christmas values put forward in this film: sacrifice, adoption, putting your child's happiness first, and being a hard-worker.

"There is danger of a little relaxing." "You know I'm not a relaxer?"

"Maybe it is meant to be."

I tend to watch the Hallmark films to de-stress, so don't require anything with real depth. Usually I find Scott Wolf a weak actor and unfortunately one I have never warmed too but in this he has a little more depth, probably brought out by Director and supporting actor Eric Close (a more likeable actor of this genre).

Kristen Chenoweth gave an adequate acting performance and an excellent singing performance.

It was a good premise for a film with a really strong supporting cast but would have been lifted more by stronger leads.

Had I been in charge of the remote, I would not have picked this movie from the recording list, but saved it to watch after I'd worked through other titles. I'm not at all a fan of Kristin Chenoweth. Neither she nor Wolf are on my list of must see young and beautiful (or handsome) people. I've seen Chenoweth in other movies in this genre and I have not been impressed.

Was I wrong. I enjoyed this movie. The story had many well used elements, but I liked the way it was put together. I probably should have seen it coming, but I didn't anticipate the "twist" until the last minute. Wolf and Chenoweth connected OK. I also enjoy Christmas movies where professional artists give quality musical performances. I had no idea Chenoweth had a voice like that. (Then I day later, I saw her performing on PBS with a big choir, maybe Mormon Tabernacle?.)

Hallmark Hall of Fame presents a remarkable Christmas movie that will be enjoyed for years to come. The outstanding singing talents of Kristin Chenoweth and newcomer Kevin Quinn is a special Hallmark card in movie form. Scott Wolf adds delightful acting to an important role in the story. It is a lovely story with drama to tug at your heartstrings and just enough fun to keep you smiling. Kudos to a great cast.

The music is glorious with superb direction by Eric Close (who also stars) to make it the perfect Christmas experience. Don't miss watching this one.

Hallmark, Thank you for a special treat this holiday season.