Noël

Rose (Susan Sarandon) is an author of children's books who is especially lonely this holiday season. Her mother, who is stricken with Alheimer's disease, is having difficulty eating normally and recognizing anyone around her. Rose, a divorcée, has not had a serious romance for quite sometime. And, although a young gentleman in the office makes a pass at her, she is not willing to have a one night encounter. Nina, a lovely young lady, has a good looking, police officer-fiancé but, alas. Mike has a jealous streak that produces sharp anger and abuse, at times. Nina is not certain she wants to continue the relationship. Meanwhile, others in NYC are dealing with baggage from abusive fathers, criminal pasts, and religious doubts. Is this truly the "most wonderful time of the year?" This is a very compelling but rather serious entry into the world of holiday movies. The subject matter is most sobering, even as there are moments of humor and happiness. All of the performers are fine and so is the lovely look of the film's design. If anyone is feeling down at holiday time, this is NOT the film to bring out for a showing. That said, if anyone wishes to watch a thoughtful movie about real issues, try to find this movie during the off season. It has many assets and will enlighten and entertain viewers at the same time.

Noel is lovely holiday fare. The tag line could be "Everything that happens, happens for a reason". This holiday story reveals characters that are easy to identify with and through the circumstances that unfold, their lives weave a tapestry of love, growth and the often overlooked kindness of humanity. The storyline and dialogue bring plenty of warm hearted sentimentality to the film which is nicely offset by incidents of comic relief. Susan Sarandon and Robin Williams deliver wonderful performances and you will find yourself deeply caring about their characters. Director Chazz Palminteri brings out another side of Paul Walker, proving that Mr. Walker can do more than just drive fast cars. Penelope Cruz is as lovely as ever lending inner beauty through her character as well. Alan Arkin plays a delightful character with a twist. The remaining cast, including a cameo by Mr. Palminteri, does a nice job of completing the ensemble and giving this story heart. Though the story revolves around the Christmas holiday, it may serve to remind us that each person is connected to one another within the human family no matter what the season.

The old Calypso song goes "If you want to be happy for the rest of your life, never make a pretty woman your wife." But, what are you supposed to do if your fiancé is Penelope Cruz? That is Paul Walker's (The Fast and the Furious) problem, and he has a jealous streak. Who wouldn't with Cruz, but it is going to kill his upcoming marriage. No problem, Alan Arkin (Little Miss Sunshine) comes to the rescue in a strange way and saves the day.

But, Walker isn't the only one with a problem. Susan Sarandon (Dead Man Walking) has a mother with Alzheimer's and her life is a mess. Who to save her but a burned-out priest (Robin Williams). Well, they really save each other.

This is a sentimental Christmas tale with some laughs, but it is mostly about Christmas miracles. Watch it for the great cast.

No tree decorating, baking cookies or building snowmen. Instead this is a character study of several different people trying to make sense of life. (I counted 6, but maybe Charlie doesn't count.) They all cross paths, some more closely than others.

There are several more popular actors and all do at least a credible job. Susan Sarandon's story is perhaps the most interesting and she does it well.

The story wanders a bit, but I think intentionally. The TV replay I watched was chopped a little too much for commercials and so a couple of times the transitions were confusing.

This film is about how a group of seemingly unconnected people spend their Christmas Eve in New York.

"Noel" may look like a romantic comedy set around Christmas time, but it is much more than that. It excels at portraying their feelings and emotions, and therefore it is particularly engaging. Their live stories are real and down to earth, these events could happen to anyone. It helps viewers to connect with the characters. I find Arty's story particularly touching. The parallel between Arty and Mike, although a little contrived, is also nice as it leads to a happy ending.

"Noel" is a heartwarming film. It makes you care and feel for the characters. It might even make you feel for the people around you too.