Le Chœur de Noël

The music in this movie was much better than any other Hallmark movie. Kristen Chenoweth's singing is far and above any other artist today. Disney found that out when she sang a duet with the star of that movie Decendents and blasted her off the stage. But when will Hallmark learn they have to do more and produce a romance movie for Hallmark Hall of Fame? Their movies in previous years we so good, ex. "The Russel Girl","Beyond the Blackboard","The Magic or Ordinary Days","Front of the Class" and so many more. While this movie had great music, it was as good as my local high school chorus, it was just another rehashed Hallmark love story. Next time I see one, the rating goes DOWN.

Kristin Chenoweth is little known here in the UK, so had to check on Google whether she could actually sing as she does in the film ! Wow - a bit of a revelation that she does, and what a CV (resume) this lady has ! Had to agree with another reviewer though, that I should have watched with sub titles, as she doesn't enunciate clearly in her speaking voice - which is unusual for a singer of her calibre.

The storyline is good, and wont spoil it for others, but a surprising ending. An enjoyable watch, and shows what Hallmark can achieve with older and experienced actors in lead parts. They should do it more often !!

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.

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?.)

I know all Hallmark movies have a similar formula. But, this one has a little extra something that pushes it over the top. I think this is one of my favorite Hallmark movies of all time. Kristin Chenoweth and Scott Wolf are great co-stars and elevate the Hallmark formula for movies to top notch quality.