Christmas in Conway (2013 TV Movie) User Reviews

Great cast, good movie... a little heartbreaking

[juneebuggy · 8/10 · 24 December 2014]

This was very good, a little heartbreaking if I'm honest but I appreciated that it wasn't the usual cheesy or corny Christmas movie. A surprisingly great cast here too; Andy Garcia, is fantastic, Mandy Moore, very believable as the home care nurse and Mary-Louise Parker is suitably sick. They all do a great job telling the story of a grumpy (heartbroken) man who goes about building a Ferris wheel for his ailing wife in their backyard as a reminder of the night he proposed to her.

There are some very heartfelt moments here and a bit of a romance hinted at between Moore and the landscaper which is left a little vague. I could have done without the brief attempts at humour from the neighbourhood Grinch woman and the cowboy junkyard man. A beautiful ending here too which at first left me surprised -what, that's it? Because I was so engrossed in the story. But then when I thought about it I realized I didn't really need to see anymore. 12/22/14

This film most definitely will tug at any romantics heart strings

[Ed-Shullivan · 8/10 · 25 December 2016]

Christmas in Conway will make you laugh, it will make you angry at the cranky neighbor Gayle Matthews (played by comedian Cheri Oteri), it will make you root for the unknown young lovers palliative care nurse Natalie Springer (Mandy Moore), and landscaper Tommy Harris (Riley Smith) but mostly it will make your own heart bleed with sorrow and hope for the true love felt by contractor husband Duncan Mayor (Andy Garcia) and his cancer stricken wife Suzy Mayor (Mary- Louise Parker).

There are stories within stories which are explained by the bed ridden Suzy Mayor to her palliative care nurse Natalie Springer which allow us to slowly understand the deep anger and resentment that Suzy's husband Duncan carries with him like an elephant on his shoulders. This deep anger and resentment has no room for anyone in his life except his lovely bed ridden wife Natalie who he will do anything for, and I do mean anything.

Now Suzy's good friend the Doctor Emmons (Jason Davis) has advised Suzy's husband Duncan that the agreement was that he would release Suzy from the hospital and allow her to die gracefully at home in her own bed on one condition only and that one condition being that Duncan had to agree to allow the palliative care nurse Natalie Springer to also reside in the house 24 hours each and every day to assist Suzy through her ups and many downs with her medication as the cancer took away her strength slowly.

When Duncan experiences first hand a significant set back with Suzy's health when he tries to make her happy when he attempts to take her to the seaside carnival they once rode the Ferris wheel and he proposed to her on, he decides the next best thing that he can do to show her how much he loves her is to find an abandoned Ferris wheel and rebuild it in his own backyard. The only thing that was missing from this beautiful Christmas themed movie was the Beatles song "I get by with a little help from my friends", as Duncan's dream of making his ill wife Suzy happy by riding a Ferris wheel just once more and this dream could not be accomplished without a lot of help from some new friends.

The film is an inspiration and reminds us not judge any person by a first or even second impression, but to think the best of everyone and they will reward you with the goodness that is within them, be it a little or a lot of goodness. Now the dying Suzy Mayor is rewarded with the goodness she deserves from others as she gave to the many people she touched, especially that of her husband Duncan who by the end of the film we all think very highly of.

It ain't pretty but it sure is well done

[Jackbv123 · 7/10 · 10 November 2021]

This movie tries to capture some of the ugliness of the situation this woman and her husband are in. She is dying and they all know it. It is an awful place to be. As much ugliness as the movie captures, I'm sure it doesn't come close to the reality.

As a subplot, there is a vindictive neighbor who is just plain mean and she'd like to say she is doing it for the community, but she's just doing it for her self.

The cast does a marvelous job.

My rating should not reflect the quality of this movie. This Hallmark Hall of Fame movie belongs in that category. I just can't say it was fun to watch and as I sit here immediately after finishing it, I don't think I will watch it again.

Touching and pleasant Christmas fantasy

[vchimpanzee · 2 December 2013]

Mary Louise Parker is excellent. She doesn't really seem sick (she even has her hair) but it's just that her character is so strong and won't give up. And no matter what, she shows concern for others.

I didn't recognize Andy Garcia, though he looks like Mitt Romney in this. Garcia is nothing like his past roles, but he is very good here, providing the perfect balance between bitter curmudgeon and loving but sad husband.

Mandy Moore is sweet and caring, and determined to do whatever is necessary.

Riley Smith is likable as Tommy.

I didn't know Cheri Oteri but I sort of remember her from "Saturday Night Live" prime-time specials and clips. She provides most of the desperately needed humor.

Mark Jeffrey Miller also stands out and gives us a few more laughs, showing a mix of bitterness and caring as the former carnival worker.

I have only one complaint. They obviously didn't film this movie in the real towns. The movie was set in Conway and it has the Spanish moss that helps make the town so attractive. As the couple rode to Myrtle Beach, they crossed an attractive bridge which I've never seen. Conway has a real nice bridge they should have used. The Riverwalk was mentioned but I don't think the real one was shown, because I have visited it for the past six years and it didn't look quite like that. I have passed Family Kingdom amusement park in Myrtle Beach many times and may have gone there (whatever it was called then) as a child nearly fifty years ago. I don't think that was the real Family Kingdom either. And Moncks Corner is not as close to Conway as they made it look, and nowhere near a freeway.

This is a family movie, but it doesn't shy away from the reality of terminal illness.

But this is a worthy effort for the Hallmark Hall of Fame.

Not a bad film starring Tangled's Mandy Moore

[lisafordeay · 6/10 · 1 January 2014]

Christmas In Conway is a made for TV drama starring Andy Garcia from The Godfather,Mary Louise Parker from Weeds,Riley Smith from New York Minute and Mandy Moore from A Walk To Remember and Disney's Tangled.

The film chronicles on a man played by Garcia who's wife played by Parker is dying and she hasn't got much time left. Meanwhile a young girl called Natalie played by Moore is sent to help the man with his dying wife while he plans to built a Ferris wheel for her as Natalie is a nurse who helps Parker's charcther out of bed and feeds her.

The story is quite similar to the 2002 film A Walk To Remember starring Moore as both Garcia and West built something for their dying partners; West with a Telescope,Garcia with a Ferris wheel.

Two reasons why I checked this film out was because: 1. I'm a fan of Mandy Moore for 15 years now since 1999 when she was known as the bubbly blonde pop star back in the days and she also starred in my all time favourite movies Tangled and A Walk To Remember.

2. I like watching romantic films and dramas depending on the actual story that goes with them.

Overall what did I think of it well it wasn't a bad film,not as good as Remember Sunday with Zachary Levi but still its a good movie to check out as I have seen it today for the first time.

Its a 6 out of 10.

Just a funny fact

[meridethlisa · 7/10 · 8 December 2013]

I enjoyed this movie but sadly I had one major major problem with it and it is kind of funny. Mary Louise Parker, the sick lady in the movie, funny enough she had the same role in Fried Green Tomatoes. Guess she is only good at one thing and also the bedroom setting was the same except for the big clock in fried green tomatoes. Please refrain from letting actresses know they are only good for one thing. Guess this is like being slotted in only one kind of role. Love Mary Louise Parker but honey I like you living..... Also I was hurt to know I can't post anything on this site if my spelling is correct. Guess we all go back to school a time or two. So for all you people that are like me and are not perfect, don't comment on movies here.

Not the Usual Cheesy Christmas Movie...

[cozycottage05 · 9/10 · 7 December 2013]

This film had quality actors playing roles with substance. Several plot lines and touching moments. They could have done without the buffoonish neighbor lady, but otherwise, I appreciated the love this man (Andy Garcia) showed for his wife in the last stages of her life. Mandy Moore was truly believable in her role as a hospice care nurse, and the relationship she developed with the dying Mrs. had depth to it. Probably a little on the unbelievable side, overall (building a ferris wheel in your back yard?), but I appreciated the fact that the end of the movie was their ride together on the wheel, and not her death.

Thumbs up!

Watch for the warm sentiments

[craig-340-777546 · 7/10 · 20 November 2022]

For those who love these movies it's enjoyable. Face it, Hallmark shows are not made for academy awards and Emmy's they are made to share warm sentiments and enjoyment for those that like them. It's enjoyable and should be viewed in that way.

Garcia gives a good performance as do most of the actors. It is nice to see some of these actors I have not seen in a number of years.

A man who loves his wife and is trying to deal with her mortality and their dreams ending. To those who have lost loved ones way too soon, it is a respectful view into how people deal with loss and forgiveness. To many this will mean a great deal.

Best Christmas Movie ever!

[sisifo95122 · 10/10 · 17 December 2014]

I love love love this movie. It's not the usual "cheery Santa Claus Christmas movie" It's a heartwarming classic! All the characters portrays the many different kinds of people there is that makes this world. I would watch this over and over. Hallmark has really done it this time with this awesome movie! It had laughter with the nosey-rosey high end neighbor, the cranky man, the lovable hospice nurse, and the bad-turn-good youth kid to the sheriff whom had a heart. I love love love this movie, I wish it never ended or a sequel to it. Such an awesome true love Christmas movie! Thank you Hallmark! Thank you to the awesome cast as well.

Not the Jolly I switched on for.

[adamjohns-42575 · 6/10 · 7 January 2021]

It's probably not a bad film, it certainly seemed to be well produced before I turned it off, but I just couldn't face another sad Christmas film with disease and death looming, amidst a romance and the festive period. The illness tends to take over the more fun elements of the season and the usual themes of Hallmark/Lifetime films of this genre. I like the jolly ones, where they decorate trees, eat cookies and fall in love. That's what I tune in for. I don't want it to be too real.

I can't rate it because I didn't finish it, but I wouldn't say that you should avoid it, if you like a more sentimental and less easy to watch film.

How do you go from Michael Corleone to this?

[saxtonj · 1/10 · 23 August 2019]

Terrible terrible acting and terrible story and really not worth watching

Inspiring and Touching

[maryacapps · 10/10 · 11 December 2015]

I am a hospice volunteer sitter, and this movie was particularly inspiring to me. It gave a realistic picture of what hospice patients and their family members go through and also the compassion of people who work in hospice occupations. It reflected the message of what hospice is all about. Movie is sad but also contains moments of humor and the love and compassion from the most unexpected people. Great actors and great writing and storyline. Love to see movies that reflect caring people. Loved it and great acting! Highly recommend, especially to families that have had loved ones under the care of hospice. This movie would be a great training tool for employees to watch!

Andy makes me cry

[nanettemeau · 7/10 · 12 December 2023]

I don't know if my previous review went through so I'm going to have to write again. Andy Garcia not only is handsome and Charming and very approachable but he has a way about pulling at the Heartstrings and making women feel emotional. It's from his emotional presence. He knows how to cry and show his emotions and he's not afraid to show his emotions he wears his emotions on his shoulders. This is very unusual and it's very unusual for an actor to be this incredibly gifted and skilled to draw in the audience and make them emotionally vulnerable and bring up tears and you see people crying left and right. He's A Gifted Man love him.

Christmas in Conway is a poignant story of love, illness and sorrow of a loving husband who is about to see his beloved and darling wife, devoured by a merciless illness.

[frederika-f · 10/10 · 22 February 2015]

Christmas in Conway is about a loving husband, Duncan who brings home his terminally ill wife, Suzy to be with those who love her . She wants no more treatment for her illness. A young health carer, Natalie, whom the wife calls, Pretty Lady, helps taking care of her and to console a saddened and grumpy husband who would give the world to have her happy until the end. I've been an avid fan of Andy Garcia since I've seen him starring in When a man loves a Woman for the very first time. I loved him for the way he portrayed the hurt and distressed husband of a wife who abused alcohol. Although I've also thought of him as being very good looking, I adored his talent and tried to see all his work over the years. I have seen mostly dramas done by him as well as comedy, which I have also enjoyed immensely. A dear friend surprised me with a wonderful gift, when I received a DVD of Christmas in Conway in the mail recently. Starring my beloved Andy Garcia as well as Mandy Moore and Mary Louise Parker. What a delightful evening I had. Watching this Jewel of a movie with loved ones. Although it was very sad, I had some good laughs as well! Needless to say, I started to cry early on in the movie, which ended in loud sobs. No shame here! I enjoyed this beautiful and heartwarming story as never before. What I loved most,is the way the ending was done. Beautifully done by the producer, in my opinion! Quite unexpected, because I thought it was going to end in a different way, at a 'most awaited' moment towards the end. Wow! Is about all I can say! Andy has aged, like all people do, but he still has the amazing talent and ability to charm this lady's heart in a very nice way. And make my heart skip a beat or two, with his good looks. Be kind to yourself and find a way to see this awesome, wonderful and wholesome movie with a dear friend or even a granddaughter often years old. I'm going to watch it again and a again and again.

Better than most...

[mbudrock · 23 November 2019]

This film is certainly a departure from what a recent viewer to Hallmark Christmas movies might expect (introduce the characters, draw characters close, introduce conflict one, resolve conflict one, introduce conflict two, resolve conflict two, happy ending). I think that's what makes it stand out and also what makes this a very special selection. Contrary to what one reviewer stated, I don't believe the overriding theme is terminal illness. I think that misses the point. What I found the overriding theme to be is love and redemption that shine in the face of a terminal illness. Which are perfect themes for a Christmas movie. I do agree with the reviews that the movie isn't one of the best acted. Even with the star power on board. So it doesn't wear as well as some. However, the story still stands well and I hope Hallmark has the good sense to keep this film in its Christmas rotation for a long time to come.

RE: Touching and Pleasant Christmas fantasy

[cancercur · 9/10 · 4 December 2013]

I live 20 mins from Family Kingdom and it was the real Amusement Park, I agree with you that Moncks Corner is not a short drive from Myrtle Beach. Also I agree that the RiverWalk was not given justice, The RiverWalk is a pleasant place to visit and was obviously not the same one in the movie. With that said it was nice to see that South Carolina (Grandstrand) was the setting for a Christmas movie. I would rate the movie 9 from a scale for 1-10. I was saddened to see that all the details wasn't exact but movies are based in towns all across America and are obviously not filmed in the exact town there based on simply due to the fact for permits and etc.

Great Movie

[kslaven-84978 · 10/10 · 23 November 2021]

I dont really see much of the Christmas theme but an incredible movie. Very heart warming and one of the absolute best movies I have ever seen on the Hallmark Channel. I watch it every year and cry like a baby at the end every single time.

Sweet Film

[jmsbrooker · 10/10 · 23 December 2021]

I have just found another favourite Christmas film. Of course it DOES deal with terminal illness. But it does not really go down the maudlin road TOO much. It has plenty of fun parts which keeps us entertained. Even the ending gave us a little hope that, maybe, just maybe it wasn't the end we all knew was coming.

A very beautiful non traditional Christmas movie.

[opalpika1328 · 10/10 · 27 November 2023]

This was such a beautiful Christmas movie that I seen on Pluto TV's Hallmark Movie Channel. It dealt with a husband caring for his sick wife and wanting to give her something special for Christmas before her time is up. He had help from his wife's young hospice care giver and her old students who her husband didn't care for at first because of what he done in the past. His plan for a gift was to get a ferris wheel built in his backyard to show his wife something special and to also remember her by. He surprisingly got the parts from a crazed hillbilly man after he seen the old tree he had in his truck. However, there was one obstacle: a nosey, snooty neighbor. She wanted to have the most creative decorations for the holiday contest and she attempted to get the cops to take the ferris wheel down, the student got hurt refusing to get off in the process but even so, the hillbilly guy and his workers fixed it up, but still the cops wanted to get them to take the ferris wheel down but they finally gave up, and so did the neighbor. The judges for the contest even left her place to see what the husband was doing next door, and they all were surprised. They seen a beautiful lovely display, and the husband surprised his wife and even took her on it, and everyone, even the nosey, snooty neighbor, were surprised and happy for them both. Again, this was a very beautiful movie, very different from your average traditional Christmas movie filled with Christmas carols, Santa, and whatnot, but a great one.

A model of acting, especially for holiday season fims

[SimonJack · 9/10 · 13 October 2022]

"Christmas in Conway" is much more than a drama and romance. It's a story of true, abiding, enduring, and deep love. Very few films have been made along the lines of this plot since the last of the 20th century. But, when one has such a plot, it's always a very good, even great film. Needless to say, this applies especially to movies made for the Christmas season or with Christmas in them.

The description of the film, and other reviews discuss the plot. My comments are in praise of a production with a cast that should be a model for actors, especially those who have roles in year-end holiday films. Many of the Christmas season movies made in the past few decades fall short of being very good films just because of the acting. And, that's because it looks like acting, not real and natural, by most or so many of the cast of these films. It's not only in drama, but in the comedy and lighter roles as well. Actors try too hard to be convincing and they turn out to not be such. One sees it so frequently.

Now, look at this film. Andy Garcia and Mary-Louise Parker are superb in their roles. Who could not believe that Suzy Mayor is suffering from cancer, but not complaining? Who could not believe that Duncan Mayor is torn inside by his wife's suffering and imminent death? Who could not believe the deep, heartfelt, sincere, abiding and soul-grabbling love between these two people? Wow! This is great acting because it seems so real and believable.

And, they aren't the only people who make this such a marvelous, true to life story. Mandy Moore's Natalie Springer might be the hospice nurse or caregiver that any number of people may have encountered in their family losses. A line in the film refers to her profession, and Duncan himself comes around to a great extent because of the heart and soul of such a hospice nurse. They are special people with special positions. Mandy is love in action, not just a nurse. It's not forced or phony. She is real. So then, Riley Smith as Tommy Harris also comes across as genuine and real. His role is a hard one to get right, because of the sudden changes his character must show; but he nails the part and makes the changes just happen as naturally as can be.

Let's not forget the nosy and uppity neighbor, Gayle Matthews. Cheri Oteri has the only bit of comedy in the film, in her character. And she plays her part superbly. So too do Ric Reitz as Sheriff Charlie and Mark Miler as Henry. The entire cast make this a model film for acting. And, because of their superb acting, the story and film are tremendous. This isn't a happy Christmas story, but because of its excellent production, it's one that will have good memories, just as how the story, if played out, would have good memories in later life for those who loved and knew Suzy Mayor.

Here's my favorite line from the movie.

Suzy Mayor, "You okay with this?" Duncan Mayor, "I'm not okay with any of it; but I want you to know I'll be with you all the way."