I must say, I really enjoyed 'A Dickens of a Holiday!'. Indeed, I was pleasantly surprised with this one. It is an entertaining and engaging story with some lovely dialogue, amazing performances, and a lot of heart. It is undoubtedly one of the better Hallmark Christmas movies this 2021 season. The story follows Cassie (played by Brooke D'Orsay) who is directing 'A Christmas Carol' in the 100th Year Anniversary of Dickens Days in Dickens, Ohio, the town she grew up in. When Scrooge develops large nodules on his vocal cords and can't perform, she asks her former high school classmate Jake (played by Kristoffer Polaha) to take over the role. Jake, who is a Hollywood action star, is keen to land a more serious dramatic role in a new film based on his late mother's favorite book. To improve his resume, and to see the girl he once had a crush on in high school, Jake eventually agrees to take the part. And so, our story begins as we watch the two rehearse (with the cast) for the big night, discovering and tapping into the talent and passion they have for acting and directing, and, more importantly, for each other. The story itself is quite engaging with some heartfelt dialogue and interactions between Cassie and Jake. I also enjoyed the play within a play element of the story, which adds another layer to the viewing experience. Naturally, there were a few shortcomings with the script. For example, I felt the feud between the brothers was resolved too quickly, though, to be fair, it is only an 84-minute film. There was also the conflict at the end, which felt forced (unrealistic). What makes this movie special is the acting. Simply put: it is wonderful. D'Orsay has a sweet and caring vibe to her performance, which I found appealing. She also does a beautiful job of touching Polaha in various ways, which adds to their growing connection and chemistry on-screen. This connection via words and touch is lovely to watch. Polaha's performance is brilliant both as Jake and Scrooge. Regarding the latter, there is a remarkable scene where he is kneeling on the stage begging the Grim Reaper to restore his life. It is an impressive scene (D'Orsay's reaction to it was also great), and an impressive performance overall. Polaha and D'Orsay also have great chemistry on-screen (believable, convincing). There are several touching moments between them that I especially enjoyed (the carriage ride being one). Finally, the movie also has a warm Christmas vibe to it. The sets, props, and scenery are beautiful in the small town nineteenth-century England sense. Of course, there is a carriage ride, ice skating, tree shopping, hot cocoa, and other typical Hallmark Christmas elements. All of which add to the Christmas spirit and festive cheer of the film. All in all, 'A Dickens of a Holiday!' is a lovely story with some brilliant acting. One of Hallmark's best this season.
30 Reviews
Perfect Holiday Flick
jmgimbel11 December 2021
These are two leads who can actually act and I always enjoy so it's great Hallmark finally paired them together. The story is fun and as realistic as this type of fare can be. You actually care which is a rarity w Hallmark. Both characters are endearing and have chemistry for a change! They actually touch the way couples do in first blush of love. It's sweet and sappy in a fun holiday spirit way. Best in show.
The lead actors
Jackbv12311 December 2021
While the basic story is common, it doesn't feel that way. Cassie is basically unemployed. Jake is looking for a promotion (a part in a new film). She turned him down for the prom in high school. Now he's an action movie icon. And they have to work together to save the festival. This particular story uses a less common premise that what they are working on is a performance of The Christmas Carol where she's the director and he's Scrooge. Certain subthemes add a little spice. Of course, there is going to be a romance kindled.
But what makes this movie a little better than average is the lead actors. Brooke D'Orsay and Kristoffer Polaha have great chemistry. I have rarely, if ever, seen either one of them not have great chemistry with their counterparts. Polaha does the movie action hero thing well and that persona doesn't disappear instantly, which is the mistake some movies make. D'Orsay's Cassie nurtures his hidden dramatic abilities as he gradually goes from an action oriented actor, delivering his lines with too much force, to one who feels the dramatic elements of his new part. And not to be shortchanged, Cassie blossoms under Jake's praise and encouragement.
Don't get me wrong. There are no outstanding highs or lows or surprises. The conflict and ending are predictable. The tension is relatively mild focusing on the outcome of the performance and Jake's career. The closest things to bad guys are the demanding mayor and neglectful agent. Neither is mean about it. But the actors make it enjoyable. It's not one of my top ten, but it was worth watching.
But what makes this movie a little better than average is the lead actors. Brooke D'Orsay and Kristoffer Polaha have great chemistry. I have rarely, if ever, seen either one of them not have great chemistry with their counterparts. Polaha does the movie action hero thing well and that persona doesn't disappear instantly, which is the mistake some movies make. D'Orsay's Cassie nurtures his hidden dramatic abilities as he gradually goes from an action oriented actor, delivering his lines with too much force, to one who feels the dramatic elements of his new part. And not to be shortchanged, Cassie blossoms under Jake's praise and encouragement.
Don't get me wrong. There are no outstanding highs or lows or surprises. The conflict and ending are predictable. The tension is relatively mild focusing on the outcome of the performance and Jake's career. The closest things to bad guys are the demanding mayor and neglectful agent. Neither is mean about it. But the actors make it enjoyable. It's not one of my top ten, but it was worth watching.
Better than average
sheryl-watkins17 December 2021
I love Kristoffer Polaha, but Brooke D'Orsay hasn't been my favorite Hallmark actress. This story gives them both a chance to shine. While it contains elements of your typical Hallmark plot - career crises, actor wanting to stretch, sibling issues, secret crushes, and a show to save - it still seems refreshing. Well done, Hallmark. Find another great story for Brooke.
Polaha simply kills it in this one!
jagfannn12 December 2021
Although the story here is sort of typical for this type of movie, the acting from both leads is the real story. I've always liked both actors but Kristoffer Polaha shows some acting chops in this movie, I didn't realize he had. There was a simple scene, where he literally drew a tear. His part was very very well done.
Brooke D'Orsay does a great job with her part as well. Her character is sweet, caring and very good at her job, despite having some problems of her own. In spite of what some others have thought, I found their chemistry to be strong.
This one is WELL worth watching!
Brooke D'Orsay does a great job with her part as well. Her character is sweet, caring and very good at her job, despite having some problems of her own. In spite of what some others have thought, I found their chemistry to be strong.
This one is WELL worth watching!
Could not warm up much, to this one.
gfrasmd11 December 2021
Guess I better be short. A previous reviewer, MrJackParker, has already said it all, better than I could.
I felt the movie did not have the charm of some Hallmark's works of old. Kris Polaha is good, as always, but I find Brooke D'Orsay's acting has a certain wooden quality. The story limps a bit, here and there, and is only mildly innovative. All in all, the show is well crafted and never offensive. Yet, it does not have that "Je ne sais quoi" that would make it memorable.
I felt the movie did not have the charm of some Hallmark's works of old. Kris Polaha is good, as always, but I find Brooke D'Orsay's acting has a certain wooden quality. The story limps a bit, here and there, and is only mildly innovative. All in all, the show is well crafted and never offensive. Yet, it does not have that "Je ne sais quoi" that would make it memorable.
Brilliant!
annalydima3 January 2022
Wow! 👏👏👏👏💕 It's amazing, wonderful, stunning!
I can possible imagine how much work there is behind to realize a so touching movie... It will become a classic, to watch over and over again.
My sincere congratulations to the whole team 👏👏👏👏!
I can possible imagine how much work there is behind to realize a so touching movie... It will become a classic, to watch over and over again.
My sincere congratulations to the whole team 👏👏👏👏!
A Dickens of a Holiday!
JoBloTheMovieCritic22 December 2021
This movie won't make you a Scrooge.....
PerryAtTheMovies3 January 2022
8/10
"Dickens of a Holiday!" is about a woman named Cassie who set to to direct the theatre production of "A Christmas Carol". When the usual Scrooge is sidelined Cassie is forced to make a decision she doesn't want to and asks an old friend and current mega movie star Jake to step in. A bit of a Scrooge himself he reluctantly agrees.
One of the few Hallmark movies that actually hits the mark. While it is definitely cheesy at times with how quickly problems are resolved and how flirtatious romance is practically already there, it still hits the emotional marks. The actors were definitely believable in their roles and the chemistry between them was perfect. The story in and of itself is engaging and touching at the same time.
The weakest part of the film was the cinematography. I hated a lot of the shots they used and at times it was distracting. I managed through, however, because as stated above, the actors were convincing in their roles.
All in all it was a perfect blend of holiday cheer, with the slightly cheesy romance and quick resolve of issues, and a cast that brought their roles to life. While it's set to leave Prime in a few short hours it's worth the watch the next time you come across it.
"Dickens of a Holiday!" is about a woman named Cassie who set to to direct the theatre production of "A Christmas Carol". When the usual Scrooge is sidelined Cassie is forced to make a decision she doesn't want to and asks an old friend and current mega movie star Jake to step in. A bit of a Scrooge himself he reluctantly agrees.
One of the few Hallmark movies that actually hits the mark. While it is definitely cheesy at times with how quickly problems are resolved and how flirtatious romance is practically already there, it still hits the emotional marks. The actors were definitely believable in their roles and the chemistry between them was perfect. The story in and of itself is engaging and touching at the same time.
The weakest part of the film was the cinematography. I hated a lot of the shots they used and at times it was distracting. I managed through, however, because as stated above, the actors were convincing in their roles.
All in all it was a perfect blend of holiday cheer, with the slightly cheesy romance and quick resolve of issues, and a cast that brought their roles to life. While it's set to leave Prime in a few short hours it's worth the watch the next time you come across it.
Deserved a Hallmark Hall of Fame label
domer-8823911 December 2021
Palpable chemistry between the leads. Heart & charm galore. Character development, and some touches of (insert Master Thespian Voice here) ACTING! Limited movie tropes. Brooke D'Orsay is as lovable as ever. But Kris Polaha showed more chops than in any of his past movies. This one will be a joy to rewatch many, many times!
Pleasant Surprise
teepack-7531214 December 2021
Kristoffer Polaha is not one of my favorites, but this movie sailed way past my expectations. He displayed acting chops I didn't know he had. The story was really cute, the script was great and the supporting cast was outstanding. I felt Brooke D'Orsay's character was a little confused at the beginning, but she pulled it together and delivered a great performance. One of the best of the season.
Polaha gives Scrooge and romance new life.
cgvsluis6 January 2022
Divorcée, Cassie, is directing her hometown of Dickens, Ohio's production of A Christmas Carol. It's the one hundredth anniversary and this year has to be spectacular. Her first major problem...she looses her Scrooge. The mayor wants major Hollywood action star and hometown native, Jake.
Jake is desperate to get a serious role, but they won't even let him read for it. He wants the lead role in a drama based on his deceased mother's favorite book. So, home to Dickens he goes to play the very serious role of Scrooge under Cassie's direction.
Cassie and Jake have a bit of a past in that he asked her to the prom...and she said no. A little unrequited love.
This is a second chance holiday romance with Kristopher Polaha, who I have grown to love in the Mystery 101 series. I think I would watch him in anything. He is charming, funny and always engaging.
Sweet must see for the holidays.
Jake is desperate to get a serious role, but they won't even let him read for it. He wants the lead role in a drama based on his deceased mother's favorite book. So, home to Dickens he goes to play the very serious role of Scrooge under Cassie's direction.
Cassie and Jake have a bit of a past in that he asked her to the prom...and she said no. A little unrequited love.
This is a second chance holiday romance with Kristopher Polaha, who I have grown to love in the Mystery 101 series. I think I would watch him in anything. He is charming, funny and always engaging.
Sweet must see for the holidays.
Boring with no life
jakethesnake-4200712 December 2021
I gave this an 8
mbiv13 December 2021
I like the leads in this movie.
Kris Polaha always seems to be enjoying himself. Here he has a chance to go way over the top, but he doesn't lose his way in the process.
Brooke D'Orsay is always gorgeous and sweet, and she displays some fine acting here.
The chemistry, while not perfect, is certainly adequate, and they play off each other nicely.
Good supporting cast, although I thought the long-simmering feud was resolved a little too easily.
All in all one of the more enjoyable movies this year.
Kris Polaha always seems to be enjoying himself. Here he has a chance to go way over the top, but he doesn't lose his way in the process.
Brooke D'Orsay is always gorgeous and sweet, and she displays some fine acting here.
The chemistry, while not perfect, is certainly adequate, and they play off each other nicely.
Good supporting cast, although I thought the long-simmering feud was resolved a little too easily.
All in all one of the more enjoyable movies this year.
Christmas delight
TheLittleSongbird6 March 2023
Really loved the premise for 'A Dickens of a Holiday', with it being one of the most interesting and most refreshing-sounding ones of the 2021 Christmas Hallmark films. Have seen a lot of other work from both Brooke D'Orsay and Kristoffer Polaha, and have a generally high opinion of both (very easy to see why Polaha particularly is a Hallmark favourite). Anything that involves 'A Christmas Carol', an all time favourite, is immediately worth going onto my watch and review list.
'A Dickens of a Holiday' was one of the 2021 Christmas Hallmark films to be every bit as good and appetising as its premise and perhaps even better. There were some very good Christmas films from Hallmark that year, and 'A Dickens of a Holiday' is not just one of them but also one of the best and most refreshing of them. Also one of the best 2021 Hallmark films in general, the standard that year was very hit and miss (not unexpected, all the previous years for Hallmark were as well) but could have been a lot worse when it is a miracle that any films were made at all.
Sure, it is not going to win points for originality, with the conflict and ending indeed being predictable. The former being a bit on the forced and rushed side and the latter (as is often the case with Hallmark) too pat with the problems being resolved too easily and cheesily.
Everything else is without issue. D'Orsay and Polaha both bring their A game and charmingly play characters that play to their strengths really well. Their characters are also very easy to like and connect with without being too perfect. Their chemistry has enormous wit and heart, some of the best of any 2021 Hallmark film because it felt realistic and true to life rather than too hostile or too low key. The supporting cast support them very well in roles that come over as a lot more than just typical Hallmark cliches.
Furthermore, 'A Dickens of a Holiday' is attractively made and doesn't look drab or garish or like it was made in a hurry. Low budget and rushed production are not obvious. The music is very pleasant on its own while fitting within the film harmoniously. The script never sounds awkward and any cheese or schmaltz does not ever in any way go overboard, it has a nice light hearted wit while also being honest and mature too. The story may lack originality, but more than makes up for it with bucketloads of warmth, charm and heart.
The relationships are also fleshed out sincerely and with more depth than what is often seen with Hallmark. It did remind me in execution of another 2021 Christmas Hallmark film regarding mature handling of character relationships, 'A Very Merry Bridesmaid', except it is a lot more light-hearted and doesn't take itself as seriously. The pacing has more zip while also being gentle at times.
Overall, very well done. 8/10.
'A Dickens of a Holiday' was one of the 2021 Christmas Hallmark films to be every bit as good and appetising as its premise and perhaps even better. There were some very good Christmas films from Hallmark that year, and 'A Dickens of a Holiday' is not just one of them but also one of the best and most refreshing of them. Also one of the best 2021 Hallmark films in general, the standard that year was very hit and miss (not unexpected, all the previous years for Hallmark were as well) but could have been a lot worse when it is a miracle that any films were made at all.
Sure, it is not going to win points for originality, with the conflict and ending indeed being predictable. The former being a bit on the forced and rushed side and the latter (as is often the case with Hallmark) too pat with the problems being resolved too easily and cheesily.
Everything else is without issue. D'Orsay and Polaha both bring their A game and charmingly play characters that play to their strengths really well. Their characters are also very easy to like and connect with without being too perfect. Their chemistry has enormous wit and heart, some of the best of any 2021 Hallmark film because it felt realistic and true to life rather than too hostile or too low key. The supporting cast support them very well in roles that come over as a lot more than just typical Hallmark cliches.
Furthermore, 'A Dickens of a Holiday' is attractively made and doesn't look drab or garish or like it was made in a hurry. Low budget and rushed production are not obvious. The music is very pleasant on its own while fitting within the film harmoniously. The script never sounds awkward and any cheese or schmaltz does not ever in any way go overboard, it has a nice light hearted wit while also being honest and mature too. The story may lack originality, but more than makes up for it with bucketloads of warmth, charm and heart.
The relationships are also fleshed out sincerely and with more depth than what is often seen with Hallmark. It did remind me in execution of another 2021 Christmas Hallmark film regarding mature handling of character relationships, 'A Very Merry Bridesmaid', except it is a lot more light-hearted and doesn't take itself as seriously. The pacing has more zip while also being gentle at times.
Overall, very well done. 8/10.
Terrific! One of the best this year!
mamachikn13 December 2021
I was hesitant to watch this after reading a few of the less than positive reviews. Glad I watched this. It was wonderful. No overdone tropes, just a genuine story of two people and a transformation of a mediocre action hero into a quality dramatic actor. Kristopher Polaha was amazing! They both were exceptional. I like them both individually; here they were great together. I will add this to my DVD collection. And yes, they had great chemistry! Kristopher posted about it on his Facebook page. He enjoyed working with Brooke a lot. You can tell they had fun with this! Bravo!
Loved this one!
lparker4817 December 2021
2 of my favorites paired up for this movie making it great! Kristopher Polaha is my fav of the Hallmark actors. He always looks so mischievous and the Mystery 101 series is my favorite. While the plotline of this Christmas movie follows the typical theme, the chemistry of Brooke D'Orsay with Polaha made it special.
What the Dickens!!??
Janet161223 December 2021
I love any films with a Dickens theme - sadly this isn't one of them.
I don't know any of the Hallmark actors, I suppose it's like UK's Mdsommer Murders, every jobbing actor does their stint on certain shows. Some you look back on and those actors are now household names. I can't say the same for the leads in this film. I recognise him from a film called Rocky Mountains or something, and he was pretty poor in that.
This is a predictable story (as with all films of this type), but watchable. Sadly the actors have to be likeable and have acting skills. Despite the OK story, the acting just lets the whole film down.
I don't know any of the Hallmark actors, I suppose it's like UK's Mdsommer Murders, every jobbing actor does their stint on certain shows. Some you look back on and those actors are now household names. I can't say the same for the leads in this film. I recognise him from a film called Rocky Mountains or something, and he was pretty poor in that.
This is a predictable story (as with all films of this type), but watchable. Sadly the actors have to be likeable and have acting skills. Despite the OK story, the acting just lets the whole film down.
A Dickens of a movie
jakeh14 December 2021
Quite honestly I've been put off by many Hallmark movies since they've gone PC and woke in 2020. However, one can stumble across a very, very good one if one looks hard enough. Don't need the PC to keep me warm. "A Dickens..." is a '10' for me: quick repartee, humor, enthusiastic performances from the two main characters, and a, general, a fun Hallmark movie to watch, and one I'll be sure to watch each Christmas.
D'Orsay and. Polaha.do a wonderful job. Their character's chemistry is obvious from the get go. I'd like to see more of them in future HM movies. There a few twists and surprises, but none of the typical 'go away' and 'come back' that Hallmark has scripted in almost all of their editions. I very rarely give a '10' for any movie, let alone Hallmark, but I'd highly recommend this one as a 'must' watch. The only (and I mean only) drawback was Polaha's over-acting as Scrooge which was, I'm sure in the script. But that was a very minor drawback, it all worked out in the end.
Again, watch this one, very entertaining and very fine acting by all. It's a 'repeat' watch on my list, and a Dickens of a movie.
D'Orsay and. Polaha.do a wonderful job. Their character's chemistry is obvious from the get go. I'd like to see more of them in future HM movies. There a few twists and surprises, but none of the typical 'go away' and 'come back' that Hallmark has scripted in almost all of their editions. I very rarely give a '10' for any movie, let alone Hallmark, but I'd highly recommend this one as a 'must' watch. The only (and I mean only) drawback was Polaha's over-acting as Scrooge which was, I'm sure in the script. But that was a very minor drawback, it all worked out in the end.
Again, watch this one, very entertaining and very fine acting by all. It's a 'repeat' watch on my list, and a Dickens of a movie.
Good Movie
mjpatterson-2008513 December 2021
The Christmas Carol comes to Ohio
jamhendr11 December 2021
I like Brooke D'Orsay and Kristoffer Polaha, both together and separately, and so it's not surprising that I liked this.
As is usual with the recent Hallmark movies, there are several more plotlines than just the romance. The hero, Jake (Polaha), left the hometown and his family to become a big action hero. The nephew and the brother both felt genuine. I liked the PA, too; he would make a much better agent for Jake. All of those characters were connected to Jake, though, and not to the heroine, Cassie. Even though D'Orsay has top billing, her character does not seem to have many interesting connection to the other characters, except for Jake. (She has a mother, but we barely see her until near the end of the movie.) This really is more Jake's story than Cassie's.
I agree with the others about the OTT Ace Hardware placement. Pair that with the Ace commercial breaks, and it's too much. Speaking of too much, did they really need the exclamation point in the title?
As is usual with the recent Hallmark movies, there are several more plotlines than just the romance. The hero, Jake (Polaha), left the hometown and his family to become a big action hero. The nephew and the brother both felt genuine. I liked the PA, too; he would make a much better agent for Jake. All of those characters were connected to Jake, though, and not to the heroine, Cassie. Even though D'Orsay has top billing, her character does not seem to have many interesting connection to the other characters, except for Jake. (She has a mother, but we barely see her until near the end of the movie.) This really is more Jake's story than Cassie's.
I agree with the others about the OTT Ace Hardware placement. Pair that with the Ace commercial breaks, and it's too much. Speaking of too much, did they really need the exclamation point in the title?
Foolproof onscreen partnership
MickyG33328 December 2022
8.0 stars.
Entertainment value is a concept that can be elusive and takes a lot of hard work and a bit of luck to find. Additionally, if you happen to stumble onto a combination of good attitudes, personalities, and some faith, you have a winner.
'A Dickens of a Holiday' is the epitome of what any director aspires to accomplish onscreen. The leads are feeding off each other throughout this production...you can't hide the deep affection they have for each other - whether real, or pretend, there is no way you can say it is contrived. There is no extra glitter or flashiness with this film, it's just a simple story of a man who finds his genuine self again, with the help of a good woman who sets him on that path. Once he finds his way, there is nothing that he, or she, or anyone cannot accomplish. What a great theme and lesson about passion, love, and hard work. We need not search for anything more in life.
Entertainment value is a concept that can be elusive and takes a lot of hard work and a bit of luck to find. Additionally, if you happen to stumble onto a combination of good attitudes, personalities, and some faith, you have a winner.
'A Dickens of a Holiday' is the epitome of what any director aspires to accomplish onscreen. The leads are feeding off each other throughout this production...you can't hide the deep affection they have for each other - whether real, or pretend, there is no way you can say it is contrived. There is no extra glitter or flashiness with this film, it's just a simple story of a man who finds his genuine self again, with the help of a good woman who sets him on that path. Once he finds his way, there is nothing that he, or she, or anyone cannot accomplish. What a great theme and lesson about passion, love, and hard work. We need not search for anything more in life.
another one moves into the Worst movie of 2021 slot
taylornan090912 December 2021
Geeze am I the only one who had a VERY hard time watching this movie. I really like Kris but he and Brook have zero chemistry. I really don't care for her, so many other actresses that could have played the part better. I only watched (tried to watch) because I always like Kris Polaha but I ended up having to fast forward thru a lot of parts... Just couldn't wait for this one to end...
I love this movie
mchthom14 December 2021
The acting makes all the difference
corkig17 December 2021
This is among the best of the Hallmark Christmas movies I've seen. The story line is average, but the acting is superb. The leads are sincere and believable. It's easy to lose yourself in the story instead of cringing at an awkward line delivery. The Christmas sets are also beautiful as a small town imitating Victorian England. All in all, a very enjoyable Christmas movie.
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