Il miracolo di Natale

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?.)

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.

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.

Hallmark Hall of Fame presents a remarkable Christmas movie that will be enjoyed for years to come. The outstanding singing talents of Kristin Chenoweth and newcomer Kevin Quinn is a special Hallmark card in movie form. Scott Wolf adds delightful acting to an important role in the story. It is a lovely story with drama to tug at your heartstrings and just enough fun to keep you smiling. Kudos to a great cast.

The music is glorious with superb direction by Eric Close (who also stars) to make it the perfect Christmas experience. Don't miss watching this one.

Hallmark, Thank you for a special treat this holiday season.

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 !!