Christmas with the Darlings

Throughout my whole Christmas film completest quest undertaken since late 2019, an interesting quest but very mixed one, there was never the mentality of expecting a classic or the film in question to be flawless. Something that was never managed with Hallmark's output. There was however always the expectation of seeing a film where one can see at least some effort rather than merely cash-in level. One could see that with enough of Hallmark's output but not all.

'Christmas with the Darlings' is not a Christmas classic, but seeing it the amount of effort that went into it was more than evident throughout. Hallmark's Christmas output has been very variable, the best ones being surprisingly well done and the worst being terrible. 2020 was an uneven year for Hallmark when it comes to their Christmas films, with the best being very good and the worst being weak but not terrible, and 'Christmas with the Darlings' is easily one of the best. Along with 'Five Star Christmas' and 'Cranberry Christmas'.

Have never expected much originality from Hallmark, and attempts at doing something different were quite rare. 'Christmas with the Darlings' is not much of an exception, with the story being yet another variation on a very familiar and still done to death (for Hallmark) formula. So story-wise it is rather predictable with some slow spots here and there.

Perhaps the ending is a touch on the pat side, common with Hallmark. And maybe Carlo Marks occasionally tries too hard, giving too much with his facial expressions at times.

But really there is very little wrong here. Regarding the side story, to me it was not a distraction at all and was tastefully done, relatable (being somebody with a sister in a very happy same sex marriage) and refreshing. At the same time, it actually could have been more fleshed out or at least there could have been more of it.

A lot is done extremely well. Katrina Law gives a performance of admirable restraint and perky energy while Marks is on the whole funny and charming. Their chemistry is very warm and genuine, which carries over in the chemistry between everybody else. The children are also acted beautifully, not a bland or annoying one among them, and their personalities are individual. The supporting cast are also very good, while the film is very tastefully directed.

Moreover, the production values still manage to be great, one of the best looking Hallmark festive films of that year. It's not too drab or garish in photography, the editing didn't seem rushed or disorganised and the scenery has a real charm to it. Most of the soundtrack is nostalgic and appealing to listen to, capturing the festive spirit well. Hallmark had a real habit of over-scoring their films but that's not as much the case here. The script just about avoids being corny and saccharine, both of which are common for Hallmark, and the story is mostly very engaging, easy to be uplifted by and heart-warming. The family values are handled with honesty and so relatably and this film absolutely is family friendly, being about family with different kinds of relationships. Did like the characters too and they came over as more real than a lot of Hallmark Christmas films.

Concluding, really liked it on the whole. 8/10.

This movie has a lot of the usual Christmas themes and devices, but with a slightly different feel. The idea of a pair of people, slightly more than acquaintances, getting together to take care of a kid or kids who are not theirs for Christmas is not new. It's also not that common and this approach is unique. Once that is set, they do the usual Christmas movie things, but it's enjoyable. And three preteen kids are three times the fun. There's also a quietly presented backstory that adds a sentimental element.

Katrina Law, as Jessica Lew, and Carlo Marks as Max, have chemistry with each other and the kids. Law gives a slightly restrained performance while Marks at times seems to try too hard to be the fun uncle. Both of these are still appropriate for their characters. Steve Bacic tries to walk a fine line between the demanding responsible CEO and the understanding brother and his demeanor leans toward the former, but it's still appropriate for the character. All three child actors display just the right amount of cuteness without any overacting.

The story paints both Jessica and Max as almost superheroes, each in their own way. Law had some difficulty appearing humble without being disingenuous. Marks does a better job being the unappreciated brother trying to prove that he really has a place at the table.

As expected in a Hallmark Christmas movie, the end results are totally predictable. There were some sentimental moments. The obstacle is the same as in dozens of these movies. I really wasn't sure how it would be resolved but that wasn't too much of a surprise.

When it comes down to it, I enjoyed the movie. That was probably due mostly to the above mentioned chemistry of the five main players with a little help from a few little "ahh" moments.

A cute new one this year! Katrina Law is always a good lead. Carlo Marks was really charming too - I don't think I've seen him before in a HM. The kids were fun too. Sweet story line.

So this is second Christmas movie I've watched this year by Hallmark that tis hitting all the marks! Like Five Star Christmas, this one has a phenomenal cast that has tremendous chemistry that you can feel throughout the entire thing. The two leads really support the rest of the cast. It's sweet in a family tidings kind of way. If Hallmark keeps this up it will be a record set for them, one that's been a long time coming! I recommend watching.

The youngest Darlington, Max, and the oldest's (Charles) soon to be former assistant extraordinaire (Jessica) volunteer to watch the three new wards of the Darlingtons instead of allowing them to be shipped off to boarding school for Christmas.

The kids are very quiet and well behaved...missing their aunt Matilda and stressed over the changes in their life. The kids all end up wanting to sleep together in their dad's old room on their first night.

"Max always was a free spirit, but his heart's as big as Kansas, and his energy is boundless...always was."

The story is really about making Christmas special for three kids who lost their parents and ultimately bringing one whole family together over Christmas.

One fun and very sweet activity that they do with the kids is decorate a tree outside with homemade ornaments that animals can eat.

While helping the kids enjoy their Christmas holiday, Max and Jessica get to know each other and ultimately fall in love.

"Christmas has a way of bringing up a lot of memories."

"You should do the right thing because it is the right thing to do, not to brag about it."

I love seeing people make their first list and being willing to give someone a second chance.

This was not your typical Hallmark Christmas movie. It was a sweet feel good movie. It seemed natural and well meaning with its happily ever after.

This is a great holiday film that I think everyone but the grinch will enjoy.