Rarely does a Hallmark Christmas movie feature two of its best actresses in the same movie, but here Hallmark does and it works perfectly. Erin Krakow and Kimberley Sustad are totally believable as sisters with a relatively new party planning business. They take on the job of working for the new CEO of a toy company at Christmastime. The plot involves overcoming obstacles in setting up the CEO's party at the last minute. At the same time, Krakow, as sister Ella, takes on the challenge of making the CEO find the "kid" inside himself while still building up his self-confidence.
Krakow's character is more playful and endearing than her usual roles and the terrific Krakow handles it effortlessly, with warmth and a delightful aplomb. As the more level-headed sister, Marianne, the always excellent Sustad plays the part with just the right amount of seriousness and dry humor. The couple of heart-tugging scenes are left to Sustad and she carries them off expertly, just as she did in "Nine Lives of Christmas" and the first "Godwink" movie. As the unsure, almost bumbling, CEO, Luke Mcfarlane is charming and fun to watch as his character evolves with the help of sister Ella. Mcfarlane is one of Hallmark's most interesting and talented actors, and he really plays this part effectively.
The Christmas spirit abounds here with dialogue that is sharp, witty, and sophisticated. The three stars are aces at playing it out. The sets and wardrobe are attractive and top-notch. There's little for the supporting cast to do, but with Krakow, Mcfarlane, and Sustad around, not much support is needed. David Winning has directed several classic Hallmark Christmas movies and he can add this to his classic best.
Review of Sense, Sensibility & Snowmen
