Max, le chien de Noël

Last year, director Max McGuire and writer Keith Hemstreet teamed up for the excellent movie "Noel Next Door". This year, they work their magic again with this film, another story featuring a man (Trevor) in crisis, who is assisted by a sympathetic woman (Peyton), an unusual plot theme for a Hallmark Christmas story that was also the main theme of "Noel Next Door". I don't know if the guide dog training aspects here are accurate, but they sure are interesting. But, more importantly, the movie also delves into the emotional aspects that a person suffers after a life altering physical change. The writing is smart and realistic, delivered by two performers who are very engaging. Ben Mehl and Amber Marshall are quite wonderful, playing their roles with intelligence and sincerity. And young Ava Weiss is very good as Trevor's daughter, who refuses to let her father's crisis bring him down. McGuire's direction is top notch and the music by Russ Howard III and Erik Schroder is notably different, but quite good, from the usual Hallmark scores.

Whether it's Christmas or not, this story stands on its own as an interesting and enjoyable study of human interactions and emotions, played with natural charm by a really good cast and written and directed with warmth and skill. Well done all.

It was so fantastic seeing Amber in a Hallmark movie. I am a huge fan of hers and Heartland is my favorite show ever. She is so real, so kind, and just lovely, and did a terrific job in this movie. What a great role for Amber who is a huge animal lover. I also loved seeing Ben and Ava who also did a terrific job. Great movie highlighting Max and the major role he plays in helping people to navigate the many obstacles in their lives. I liked that you also highlighted abuse that people often face with seeing impairments. So sad but it was handled well. I'd love to see Amber in more Hallmark movies. She's a joy to watch.

I haven't been too impressed with the Hallmark holiday slate this season; not too many of the films really "grabbed" me. While some were pleasing time-passers, there weren't many that I'd be willing to watch again. However, for this film---yep, I'm impressed. I'm going to rate this as one of the five best Hallmark Christmas films for the 2023 season. Good plot, excellent casting, with a really appealing lead in Ben Mehl, who I hadn't seen before. I hope Hallmark uses him again. And another plus---authentic winter location shooting: none of that sad-fake-snow-shot-in-the-middle-of-summer this time around. Recommended.

Ben Mehl as Trevor plays a visually impaired father to Ava Weiss (Annie). They are wonderful together and very believable as father and daughter.

Ava is quite charming in her role and the father daughter bond feels real.

Since Ben Mehl is visually impaired in real life, he's obviously acquainted with many, if not all, of the issues brought up in the movie. The sincerity of the characters helped me really identify with the topic of dealing with a perceived limitation and how people can react negatively or positively.

I wanted to watch a movie with a dog (Max). I soon became so engaged in the movie that really didn't think about Max's part being somewhat on the dow low. He is adorable and seemed well suited to the movie. For this review I did try to find out about Max but couldn't find anything. I was curious if he's really a guide dog.

Amber Marshall (Peyton - guide dog trainer and love interest) is an animal lover in real life and it shows on screen.

Definitely a great family movie that would also be good backdrop for having healthy discussions about issues covered by movie. Especially bullying at school.

This Movie is Definitely a Dog Lovers Delight, and Probably a. Candidate for the Most Sentimental and Heartwarming Film of the Year.

Dog Lovers will Truly Enjoy watching the Canine Star of the Film, as they observe the Amazing and Extensive Training that is Required of a True Service Dog.

Heartland Fans will also Definitely Enjoy the Acting Capabilities of One of Hallmark's Finest Female Stars, as Amber Marshal Demonstrates an Immense Talent in her very First, but certainty not Last, opportunity as a Lead Actress in a Hallmark Film.

Finally, Everyone will Enjoy this Heartwarming and Sentimental Story of a Sight Impaired Individual, who is Blessed with a Remarkable Service Dog, and its Caring and Compassionate Trainer.

This Film is Guaranteed to Touch Your Heart, Bring a Tear to Your Eye, and Smile to Your Face, as You Enjoy nearly Two Hours of Beautiful and Touching Entertainment.