Christmas Bells - La fede ritrovata

I knew the story of Longfellow's life and his writing of the poem before seeing the movie, so I was apprehensive about how honestly and accurately they would tell the story. Also as someone who studies material culture of the mid-nineteenth century, I was afraid that obvious inaccuracies would be permitted. Fortunately neither of my fears or apprehensions were realized. The movie honestly shows the doubts and depression Longfellow had. The sets and costumes were more authentic than most big budget Hollywood films. Details like hats and hairstyles as well as the set were all correct. In one scene we noticed a picture had been hung over a modern light switch to make the room authentically 19th century. Kudos for the accuracy and the emotional authenticity.

I had the pleasure of seeing this movie (which was sold out) on opening night at the big screen with some family. I felt the need to write a review because I was certainly drawn in and engaged the entire movie. Firstly, I had never heard of this particular movie production group so because I was that impressed by their work, I am writing this review. My hope is that people will side step the assumption that because it's low budget, or because the production team is not Hollywood grade, it's not worth seeing. Instead, my hope is they will consider heading to the theaters to give this production group a chance. The acting was amazing, the music was on point and added to the dramatic effect of the movie. The plot line was not rushed or crammed, and faith, religion was included but not overly extensive. I was most impressed with the music, coloring, the landscape and overall the performance of the actors. I loved that the movie centered around Christmas but approached with a different perspective, rather than just the general jolly happy nature that Christmas movies usually display. Be warned, you may feel a rush of emotion due to the sad nature of what inspired this movie to begin with. The fact the team did a fantastic job to even produce emotions in the audience is why it's worth being an addition to your Xmas movie list this year! Great job Sight and Sound I really look forward to more of your work in the near future.

I was incredibly surprised at what a great movie this was! Knowing that this was based on fact makes it that much more amazing. Such a incredible story of sadness and faith. I was in tears from the beginning of the movie to the end of the movie. Was cast really well and sets were very authentic looking. I honestly didn't think this was going to be a movie that I would be that interested in, but the ratings were good so we decided to see it. We were not disappointed!! What a nice inspiration of faith to start the Christmas season. One of the most powerful movies I've seen this year. I hope this company continues to produce more of these.

I came to the theater with no great expectations and was pleasantly surprised. The story was interesting and the acting was solid. I found myself interested and engaged throughout, plus I learned a lot about the life of Longfellow.

It's not a stellar blockbuster movie, but I would watch it again at Christmas time because it really does get you in the spirit. I liked how they included Longfellow's other poems throughout the film. And it was religious without being overly preachy or sappy.

A solid decent film. My mother also enjoyed it, as did the other audience members around me. I give it a happy 8 out of 10.

Merry Christmas!

This is a moving story of sorrow and grief, joy and redemption. The cinematography and score are beautiful, and Stephen Atherholt delivers a powerful performance in the lead role. The film combines elements of "Shadowlands" with "The Man Who Invented Christmas," delivering a drama that rings true with all the emotions of life. There is no cheap sentimentality here. This is a story of a man whose faith and hope are challenged and stretched to their breaking point by life's hardest trials. Where do we turn when love is lost, when right fails and wrong prevails? Is "peace on earth, goodwill to men" just an empty promise, or is it an anchor for the soul in the fiercest of life's storms? This film provides the inspiring answer, giving viewers a poignant Christmas gift.