I agree with some of the other reviews here: this one was a bit dull, a bit too ordinary, at times. That said, I found the messaging of the movie to be warm and heartfelt (as another reviewer pointed out). The story revolves around Olivia O'Hara (played by Tori Anderson), a Hollywood actor who finds her love life on the front pages of the tabloids after a recent break-up with her former fiancé Ryan Wrangler (played by Matthew James Dowden). To get away from the press/paparazzi, she decides to (secretly) visit her hometown during the Christmas holiday, something she has avoided since the passing of her father. While home, she runs into a former high school classmate Casey (our other protagonist in this story, played by Victor Zinck Jr.), who now is a teacher at the school. The chance meeting sparks an old connection, and so, the romance begins in this slow but sweet Christmas movie. I have seen now several Hallmark, Lifetime, and/or other TV movies where the story revolves around a 'Hollywood star' or a 'Rockstar' who heads home (to a small town) and ends up helping teach/direct the local school (Christmas) play/choir. In fact, 'A Christmas Break', another of Lifetime's Christmas movies this year, has a similar story. This one is somewhere in the middle of the pack. The script, I felt dragged a bit, and the dialogue was sometimes unremarkable. I found myself disengaging with the film on a couple of occasions, having to stop myself from using an iPad. As I alluded to above, there are some good underlining messages in the story; for example, the giving nature of Olivia's sister Janey (played by Lia Frankland) and the advice/support Olivia gives to Jack (played by Matthew Nelson-Mahood). The acting was pretty good, overall. Like another reviewer, I know Anderson from watching Blindspot, and I have recently seen her in Hallmark's Love Under the Olive Tree (which was fairly good). She does well in this genre of film; she has the potential to become a Hallmark regular, for example (I mean that in a good way). In this one, she had a lovely performance, I thought. However, I agree with another reviewer, she could have shown some more emotion, for example, around the set-up by her Ex. Zinck Jr. too had a solid performance, yet I thought he could have also shown a tad more emotion (and facial expressions) at times. The chemistry between the two worked well on screen, I felt. It was believable. The supporting cast was a bit mixed. There was something a bit off with a couple of the more minor characters in the movie. Janet Kidder's performance as Olivia's mother seemed odd early on, but her performance was much stronger after the first couple of scenes. As I alluded to above, Frankland had a very cute performance as Janey. Finally, the movie has a pretty decent Christmas vibe to it, and the music and music editing was fine (which has not been the case with several Lifetime movies this season). All in all, it is a decent Christmas movie. It drags a bit, but if you stay the course, it is worth a watch.
15 Reviews
A bit dull
John74York25 December 2020
I was looking forward to this Lifetime Christmas movie as it stars Tori Anderson, who I enjoyed watching on Blindspot. I have not seen her since. She was pretty good. But the story was rather dull. Don't get me wrong, there were some nice Christmas messages in the movie, but I often found myself disengaging with the movie, the story. It just did not have that X factor that some of the other Christmas movies I have seen have had, unfortunately. It's not bad, but it is not great either. It is a family friendly movie.
Christmas in the spotlight
TheLittleSongbird2 November 2021
2020 was very variable when it came to Lifetime's Christmas films, and there was definitely the sense that the films were made in a rush with not a lot of preparation time. Yet enough of them were far from amateur-hour efforts and were still watchable all things considered. Lifetime just have done a lot better in previous years, although their festive output is very hit and miss it should not be dismissed outright as enough have left me pleasantly surprised.
'Spotlight on Christmas' was though more or less what was expected, which was a watchable enough film with good moments and better than expected acting. But also one that is nothing extraordinary and does nothing new with pretty familiar plot tropes. Lifetime did a lot better than 'Spotlight on Christmas', but also worse than what is a somewhat middling effort for them. Considering the difficult circumstances though, it did make do perhaps.
Am going to start with the good. The best thing about 'Spotlight on Christmas' is the acting. Tori Anderson is a very charming lead and performs with a lot of spirit and sincerity. Lia Frankland is cute without being sickly and a natural in front of the camera. Victor Zinck Jr is not quite as strong in the likeability factor, but he has a natural and engaging presence and never overdoes it or underacts. His chemistry with Anderson is genuine and endears, it also doesn't move too fast while not taking too long.
The film also at least looks professional, with lovely scenery in particular. The music doesn't intrude and doesn't feel overused, also it has a festive sound to it. Too often not the case with Lifetime. The messaging is very honest and doesn't get laid on too thick or feel treacly or sentimental.
However, 'Spotlight on Christmas' is not an all round success sad to say. The story never properly grabbed me, as well as being very predictable it is very thin on the ground and drags a lot from too much stretched padding and an uncertain feel most of the time. There isn't enough of an emotional core or charm which made the film come over as bland and lacking in substance too. The direction is competent in some parts but is disorganised and hesitant in others.
Furthermore, the script on the most part is too verbose and the flow is very stilted, had a feeling of it being written in haste and that it had not been proof read. The conflict completely lacks tension and it didn't actually feel like there was much at stake with the indifferent and too hasty way it's written in. A lot of ingredients in the story that are done very little with. Janet Kidder is a bit too hammy for my tastes, especially in the early portions.
Overall, watchable if not great. 5/10.
'Spotlight on Christmas' was though more or less what was expected, which was a watchable enough film with good moments and better than expected acting. But also one that is nothing extraordinary and does nothing new with pretty familiar plot tropes. Lifetime did a lot better than 'Spotlight on Christmas', but also worse than what is a somewhat middling effort for them. Considering the difficult circumstances though, it did make do perhaps.
Am going to start with the good. The best thing about 'Spotlight on Christmas' is the acting. Tori Anderson is a very charming lead and performs with a lot of spirit and sincerity. Lia Frankland is cute without being sickly and a natural in front of the camera. Victor Zinck Jr is not quite as strong in the likeability factor, but he has a natural and engaging presence and never overdoes it or underacts. His chemistry with Anderson is genuine and endears, it also doesn't move too fast while not taking too long.
The film also at least looks professional, with lovely scenery in particular. The music doesn't intrude and doesn't feel overused, also it has a festive sound to it. Too often not the case with Lifetime. The messaging is very honest and doesn't get laid on too thick or feel treacly or sentimental.
However, 'Spotlight on Christmas' is not an all round success sad to say. The story never properly grabbed me, as well as being very predictable it is very thin on the ground and drags a lot from too much stretched padding and an uncertain feel most of the time. There isn't enough of an emotional core or charm which made the film come over as bland and lacking in substance too. The direction is competent in some parts but is disorganised and hesitant in others.
Furthermore, the script on the most part is too verbose and the flow is very stilted, had a feeling of it being written in haste and that it had not been proof read. The conflict completely lacks tension and it didn't actually feel like there was much at stake with the indifferent and too hasty way it's written in. A lot of ingredients in the story that are done very little with. Janet Kidder is a bit too hammy for my tastes, especially in the early portions.
Overall, watchable if not great. 5/10.
Good Acting But Pretty Boring
jagfannn23 December 2020
There is a cute story here but it's buried under a ton of meandering dialogue. I love Tori Anderson's character, and She and Victor Zinck Jr do a great job and have good chemistry together. To me it just seems like the story is underdeveloped without interesting subplots, so I found myself multitasking during the movie, and that's never a good sign. I still think it's worth watching and if you have a fast forward button, even more so.
OK
Jackbv12322 December 2020
This is a pretty common plot in general. Jilted Hollywood starlet flees the paparazzi and doesn't quite succeed. Meanwhile she builds a new relationship which is threatened by public exposure. The conflict is just as over overused. Likewise the ending.
What appealed to me was the sweet woman, Olivia, whose first impulse is to give of herself to others. This generous heart shines through even after the conflict is introduced. I didn't think one big thing she did was consistent with her character, but what that is gives away a spoiler.
Tori Anderson and Victor Zinck Jr. are fair to average actors. This was also reflected in that they had little chemistry. They just weren't quite natural in their roles.
There isn't anything special, no real highs or lows, but it's OK and will appeal more to anyone who hasn't inundated themselves with dozens of Christmas movies already this season.
What appealed to me was the sweet woman, Olivia, whose first impulse is to give of herself to others. This generous heart shines through even after the conflict is introduced. I didn't think one big thing she did was consistent with her character, but what that is gives away a spoiler.
Tori Anderson and Victor Zinck Jr. are fair to average actors. This was also reflected in that they had little chemistry. They just weren't quite natural in their roles.
There isn't anything special, no real highs or lows, but it's OK and will appeal more to anyone who hasn't inundated themselves with dozens of Christmas movies already this season.
Started off very promisingly but fizzled in the last half.
rebekahrox24 December 2020
This started off strongly with the great casting of Tori Anderson as a believable A-list movie star. I also liked the actress that played her little half sister, though I was at first confused about the family dynamics. I found Victor Zinck just OK as the hometown love interest and was underwhelmed by the chemistry. I am apparently in the minority on this issue.
Unfortunately, It got slower and more boring as the movie went on. Interestingly I noted a small cameo by one of my favorite hallmark actresses at the beginning of the movie, Kimberly Sustad. Had she continued contribution in the role of the conflicted paparazzo, it might have added a needed spark to one of the dull subplots. Also noted that it was directed by another favorite, Ali Liebert. Good for her and better luck next time. I would like to see more of Tori Anderson in these Hallmark-type movies.
Unfortunately, It got slower and more boring as the movie went on. Interestingly I noted a small cameo by one of my favorite hallmark actresses at the beginning of the movie, Kimberly Sustad. Had she continued contribution in the role of the conflicted paparazzo, it might have added a needed spark to one of the dull subplots. Also noted that it was directed by another favorite, Ali Liebert. Good for her and better luck next time. I would like to see more of Tori Anderson in these Hallmark-type movies.
Very Strange
mike-499-20587110 June 2023
Where to start? Amanda Holden, surely it's her, goes back to visit her family for Christmas. Her Mum is about 15 years older than her and her sister is a good 25 years younger. Work that one out. Her Dad is dead so her Mum has hooked up with Dad MK2, played by somebidy gayer than an entire Brighton Pride parade, unless my gaydar is off (it's not) He tries to play it straight but just can't keep it going long enough to last a scene.. She meets Jim Bob Walton (probably) who has about as much fashion sense as your local Jehovah's witnesses visitors and inexplicably falls in love. A reporter is on her trail - actually played by the woman who wrote the script - can't act but I guess it saved on costs. Anyway, Amanda doesn't want the tabloids to know she's about so offers to teach the local school drama group. Well you would, wouldn't you. I mean none of them will recognise an action film actress and be on Insta or anything *rolls eyes*. Nothing much happens for the next 45 minutes, so you can fast forward that. No spoilers so I won't give away the end but you won't need to be psychic to guess..
Inspiring, feel good movie
gallyfe21 December 2020
Warning: Spoilers
I found the chemistry between the leading couple believable and their acting was great!
Olivia, a movie star comes back home after a breakup from her country music star fiancé, that dumped her via text. It's her first time back home for Christmas after moving to pursue her acting career, because of her father passing away at this time of year.
The movie portrays Olivia sometimes as much too nice, for instance when her ex fiancé reveals he left her for her manager and invites paparazzi to take a picture of both of them to further his career and her reaction is rather mild.
One of the better movies Hallmark has produced this year!
Good Movie, but interesting choice of actors
johnmcaulay-9337120 February 2021
Strong, original script. Great acting.
JBThackery2 July 2021
The script is far more original than one usually sees in this genre. Plot moves well. Every scene refreshing. Cast are all first rate. Each scene flows smoothly. Photography, lighting, color balance are all pleasant. I felt like I was right there in the story. I sensed I was part of what was happening. Characters are appealing and real. Genuine performance, adapting well from good writing, directing, and cinematography.
Weak script but good lead actors
Avidviewer-0284723 December 2020
Tori Anderson is a beauty and Victor Zinck is a stud and they both can act and they have chemistry in this movie. The script is weak and that's a common problem with holiday movies, but no offense to the cast. Zinck seemed a bit undertheweather with a horse voice, but it's still great to see him.
Here is hoping that Anderson and Zinck star in another movie soon, maybe a western themed movie in the Spring.
Here is hoping that Anderson and Zinck star in another movie soon, maybe a western themed movie in the Spring.
nice
Kirpianuscus10 December 2021
The story of film star returned to home after not the most happy period in sentimental and professional life. And, a new purpose , relations with mother, a handsome mate, students and growing up of a Christmas play. Nothing surprising but charming. And , in many senses, just charming.
It's a happy feeling movie
zkvcjp15 November 2022
Warning: Spoilers
Aside from the casts, there are four things I like about this movie:
1. It shows we can choose how to respond to bad things happening to us. Though Olivia was betrayed by her fiancé, she chose not to retaliate. She is truly the hero she portrayed in her movies. I like this instead of movies encouraging us to take revenge.
2. We can find some good everywhere. It's up to us to look for them. Olivia decided to enjoy her time with her family instead of wallow in the betrayal. In fact, I liked it that the show did not focus on the betrayal but on the alternative life that Olivia could choose for herself. I like it that Olivia chose to be happy with her family and friends than on regret.
3. We can be a source of happiness even when we are going through challenging times. Olivia became a solution to what the town was going through. Instead of focusing on her lost, she focused on becoming a solution. Again, very positive which our world needs now.
4. Love Christmas! Christmas is the best time of the year indeed!
2. We can find some good everywhere. It's up to us to look for them. Olivia decided to enjoy her time with her family instead of wallow in the betrayal. In fact, I liked it that the show did not focus on the betrayal but on the alternative life that Olivia could choose for herself. I like it that Olivia chose to be happy with her family and friends than on regret.
3. We can be a source of happiness even when we are going through challenging times. Olivia became a solution to what the town was going through. Instead of focusing on her lost, she focused on becoming a solution. Again, very positive which our world needs now.
4. Love Christmas! Christmas is the best time of the year indeed!
Sadness & joy
SunnyDaise14 December 2022
This movie has a good mix of situations, moods, ages etc. The uplifting message several times over is that even after hurt and loss there's still hope and renewal. There are a lot of characters packed into this story - no space for the traditional 'best friend' here! The main family is lovely, and all the kids / teens / young adults in the movie eventually find a skill they can pursue because the adults give them appropriate opportunity and encouragement. With a few mystery elements and of course the romance you have got plenty to keep you watching right through to the multi-faceted happy ending.
Good Christmas movie, positive message.
ctrites-5966215 December 2021
Good story, main characters are believable. Good mother-daughter connection. Modern typical relationship between the star and the media. They play a catchy Christmas tune during the credits but make no mention of who the singer is or the name of the song, does anyone know?
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