Greetings, salutations, and a seasonal welcome to my consideration and recommendation of A Picture Perfect Christmas.
Story: 1.25/2 - Direction and Pace: 2.25/4 - Performances: 1.25/2 - Enjoyment: 1.25/2
Total 6.0/10
When two photographers are thrown together at a photography workshop they have one pivotal question to answer - Film or Digital? Just kidding! Though the question raises its head in the movie, the story is principally about opposites attracting. The principal romantic interests have only one aspect of commonality - Photography. When both accidentally double-book the last chalet in town, they're forced to bunk up for the seasonal period. And because of their conflicting natures - one is happy to make do while the other wants their privacy and solitude - it's how these contrary Marys come to accept one another that makes for a charming little tale. And, Tatyana Ali (Gaby) and Henderson Wade (Sean) sell their characters and their actions and reactions perfectly. It was nice to have the roles slightly reversed also. Gaby is the more masculine of the pair, while Sean isn't afraid to show his caring, feminine side. The writers also met their LBGT quota on this one by including a second love interest - A "We want to be married" couple - Dani (Paula Placido) and Amelia (Rivkah Reyes). Who knows, we may even get to a time, before human extinction, when Dani and Amelia's story would be the primary tale and not a back-burner. However, for a movie about photography (though it's only a device to bring our lovers together), I expected more from the cinematography. I think the director could've done with taking a course or three themselves. That said, it's not terrible, it just could've been better.
A Picture Perfect Christmas is not perfect, no surprise there - perfection is hard to attain, especially when it relies on other people's perceptions. However, it's a charmingly delightful picture, even if the climax ends too suddenly, and I would happily recommend it for a cuddle watch with your loved one on a bitterly wet afternoon.
Please feel free to check out my HO! HO! HO! Christmas Belles list to see where I ranked the movie.
Take Care, Stay Well, And Merry Christmas.
