Ira Finkelstein's Christmas

I watched this movie at the Seattle premier. I was happily surprised by the fun and sweet content of the film. I thought it would be a real "kids" movie and that I would be bored but it was completely the opposite. The script was well written with a few zingers for both kids and adults alike and the characters were likable and very real. The story line itself takes an original turn- even though it contains the echo of parent trap-like movies from the 60s and 70s. That may be why I like it so much- it stayed true to being a wholesome film suitable for the entire family but had enough humor and one liners in it to keep everyone entertained without feeling like they had seen it before. Plus, there is some really great original holiday music in it as an added bonus. I highly recommend taking your entire family to see this sweet, family film. Beware- the ending is so well written that it will invoke a few happy/joy tears. Loved it! It should be a Christmas tradition.

A strong cast and delightful plot line drive this family Christmas story with a Hanukkah twist (or is it a Hanukkah story with a Christmas twist?).

The young leads--Ira and Mikey, played by Elijah Nelson and Justin Howell--charmed their way through their scenes, and their interaction with the adults--especially Mikey and his grandfather, played by Elliott Gould, showed wonderful chemistry.

But the show stealer was Jennifer Cameo--a washed up (dare I say 'touched'?) middle-aged actress played by Julianne Christie. From the opening scene, the film's comedic element was driven by her, setting a lighthearted and slightly off subplot to the movie.

This was a movie for the whole family, and a delightful holiday treat.

Sue Cochran has done it again! "IRA" is one of the absolute funniest, family friendly films I've seen in years! Finally an entertaining movie I can take my grandchildren to without blood, guts, aliens or violence. This movie displays humor, family values, adventure and understanding without gratuitous violence, slick tricks or overwhelming special effects. A poignant storyline, well portrayed by all. The actors were stellar, from the Hollywood veterans to the local talent. Wonderful to see DeLuise and Gould working together. A shout out to Ira's mother,played by Seattle theater star, Angela DiMarco. Awesome to see her on the big screen with her impeccable comedic timing. This film is well rafted. This film is well written. Thank you Von Piglet, well done!

BEWARE OF FALSE REVIEWS & REVIEWERS. SOME REVIEWERS HAVE ONLY ONE REVIEW TO THEIR NAME. WHEN ITS A POSITIVE REVIEW THAT TELLS ME THEY WERE INVOLVED WITH THE FILM. IF ITS A NEGATIVE REVIEW THEN THEY MIGHT HAVE A GRUDGE AGAINST THE FILM . NOW I HAVE REVIEWED OVER 200 HOLIDAY FILMS. I HAVE NO AGENDA. I AM HONEST!

Here is a cute little film I watched last night. the film is called "Switchmas" . It is a throwback to old Disney Movies of the 1960's and 1970's. There is a few things in this film that makes be cringe. What I like most about this film was how they showed "Christmas" through the eyes of a child. This film is very family safe. Sullen teens won't like this. I think if you are a parent to a young child it will be a wonderful viewing experience.

"Switchmas" is an American musical comedy film directed by Sue Corcoran. It tells the story of a Christmas obsessed Jewish boy on his way to sunny Florida who figures out how to get the Christmas of his dreams by trading airline tickets and places with another boy on his way to snowy Christmas-Town, WA. This film also features CGI scenes based on Ira's Christmas dreams.

This is a fun and rather off-beat movie. Instead of the usual Christmas message, it delivers more of a message of getting along, showing that kindness and love wash across all religions and beliefs. Great scenes of Christmastown USA (AKA Leavenworth, Washington) and nice use of the local folks in Leavenworth.

This film is at the same time typical and not typical of the Christmas genre. We get the fighting family, the typical clueless grandparents and the parents that just don't get it. Good guys and bad guys but in the end, a story of family, caring, and a plea for harmony.

Production values are high and it is fun to see some fresh new faces making their appearance in this film. Good for the whole family.