Un Noël dans le Montana

I don't think I'll ever see Kellie Martin overact in any movie - quite the contrary! Nevertheless, I couldn't finish this on my first watch, it seemed so boring. I'm glad I gave it a second, now third, watch; with pleasant chemistry amongst the cast, it moves at a relaxed pace that is lacking in so much of life today, and it accomplishes for me what I hope any Hallmark movie could do for the viewer: to make them feel better than they did before watching it.

I admit, the Halmark Christmas films, in many occasions, for me are a sort of junk food. Nice but not healthy. And, absolutely , not recomanded. But Christmas in Montana represents an exception. For the couples, acting, Montana spirit itself and for the lovely - touching eulogy of family. Enough for see it again. And, sure , for the admirable job of Art Hindle - Victoria Snow,Colin Ferguson - Kellie Martin and for Ava Preston. Not the last, for the garland Christmas tree from barn. So, just inspired.

If this were the only Christmas movie of the year, it would be fine. This is exactly the same story as countless other Christmas movies on most of the regular Christmas movie channels. There is very little tension beyond save-our-ranch. There isn't even a romantic rival. There is no one to hate. What conflict exists is manufactured in one character's head. Even the resolution has been done many times. Take any of the previous save-our-something stories and pull out plot threads and lump them into this movie. The viewer can almost outline the story in detail.

What makes these movies enjoyable for me is the relationships. Kellie Martin and Colin Ferguson are reliable stars in this type of movie and they do fine in this one. The chemistry between them starts almost from the beginning and changes nature but continues over the movie. Even when there is an adversarial nature in the beginning, the two are connecting. Ferguson is especially well cast as a laid back good-natured rancher. I liked the dialogue, especially some of the quips early on which extended even to the surrounding family members. I also really liked Ava Preston as Chloe.

One thing that usually impresses me in Hallmark movies is breathtaking scenery. This movie is about Montana. I expected a lot more than there was. There were a few shots, but is seemed stingy.

I can see why many avid Christmas movie fans were hard on this movie, but it wasn't so much that the movie was bad as it just didn't have anything different.

A sweet, uncomplicated story that is sure to get you in the Christmas spirit. Enjoyed the scenery, the decor, and the natural and believable acting. Bravo hallmark 🎄🎄

I consider this to be a "Hidden Gem" -- a movie that I believe is much better than the overall numerical IMDB Rating would lead you to expect. For that reason it is on my IMDB "Christmas Movie Favorites" list.