'Christmas in Harmony's' premise is not a new one for Hallmark, films of theirs centered around music are actually relatively common from having at least one every year. Likewise with Lifetime, except Hallmark does them better generally despite being fairly samey from a story level. Have always really appreciated gospel music, though it is not my favourite musical style, and it was lovely for Hallmark to do a music themed film with that style in alternative to country and pop.
Despite the very low rating as of now, 'Christmas in Harmony' on the whole impressed me. In no way is it a classic or one of Hallmark's very best, Christmas and overall, but it is nowhere near close to being one of the worst 2021 Hallmark Christmas films and is much better than the previous two Countdown to Christmas films from this year. That is saying a good deal, as unlike those two this was actually above average and in general even quite good.
A lot is good with 'Christmas in Harmony'. The best thing about it is the music, which is like an exuberant celebration of gospel and plays a big part in the story rather than being just background. As the film is one with music as its theme, this was more than appropriate when normally in other familiar Hallmark scenarios this would be a problem if done badly. It is also beautifully performed, Hallmark don't always score when it comes to having actors that can sing (and sometimes singers that can act) but they absolutely do. Some of the vocals here are amazing, despite the obviousness of it being pre recorded being a distraction at times, and all the numbers are performed and staged with real gusto.
Most of the acting is well above average and even good. Ashleigh Murray really endears in her role and gives the early scenes especially a lot of energy and heart. Luke James is an accomodating partner and matches what was so good about her performance adeptly. Absolutely loved them together, especially in the first half where there is a lot of charm and wit between the two, and connected with their characters mostly too. Loretta Devine steals every scene she's in and the easy standout of the mostly decent supporting cast. The script avoids being cheesy and schmaltzy and doesn't sound awkward generally. The story is light hearted and heart warming.
Not that the story is executed perfectly. It does lose its way in the final act, where the film starts to feel rather draggy and padded and there is not enough of the verve and charm that the rest of the film has. The dialogue also sounds less natural and the characters aren't as interesting.
Did feel too that while the cast were good on the whole, there is one glaring exception. That being Michelle Williams going through the motions in a rather flat role.
Summing up, nice film. 7/10.
