My Christmas Hero (2023 TV Movie) User Reviews

Just okay.

[allmoviesfan · 5/10 · 29 November 2023]

I guess I shouldn't be surprised, having read a bit about Candace Cameron Bure recently, that there are lots of overt religious mentions in this film. Can't remember many other films like this that really put it out there, even CCB's previous work.

Aside from that, there are a few historical inaccuracies. Cast seemed too young all around, but especially the actors playing WW2 veterans. Either that or those guys are going full Benjamin Button and aging backwards?

And the grandfather died near Christmas at the end of the war in Italy? The Italians were pretty much rolled up and defeated before D-Day in Europe - in June of 1944. How hard is it for people to do some research?

CCB is okay. Gabriel Hogan is pretty good as Major Ross. The PTSD plot line is to be applauded: the more this insidious condition is normalised, the better.

Some patriotic sentimentality, but, for mine, they laid it on a little thick.

Ultimately, there are better military-themed Christmas movies out there.

Nice Christmas movie

[gdcampbell-21474 · 6/10 · 31 December 2023]

This was a mostly enjoyable Christmas movie, with a military theme. Candace Cameron Bure is in the leading role as well as being an executive producer in this movie made for Great American Family. The movie centres on military personnel, their sacrifices and how their life may be affected as a PTSD survivor.

Although I enjoyed this movie, I feel like Bure needs to start acting a little less like an ingenue in her roles. The scene when she went for a hot cocoa date and ended up with whipped cream on her face was a little too cutesy for someone of her age, unless she's determined to be cast as a perennial thirty-something actress forever. As a side note, Teryl Rothery who plays her mother in this movie is only fourteen years older than Bure.

Spin on the lost WWII soldier theme

[MickyG333 · 7/10 · 16 December 2023]

7.4 stars.

'My Christmas Hero' is another spin on the same theme, which is a mystery about how a WWII soldier died. I see some good chemistry between the leads, both of which are in so many films. He's been in a hodge podge of stuff ranging from two-bit parts in major shows and films, but what I remember the most by far is 'Heartland'. Candace is probably the family Christmas queen of, although half the people feel that Chabert wears the crown. I'd like to say they share it, but now to the movie.

I like the story, it's very inspiring, about a female doctor who is struck by love at first sight for a major in the army. She is also a major. He was also struck by the love fairy, but we don't realize this for several minutes (although we assume it). They work together to solve a WWII mystery of sorts, how did her Grandfather die in the war etc. I feel this theme has been done a few times, but it's still intriguing. It is a stretch finding actors who appear 95 years or older, because at this point anyone who was in that war would be.

The setting is a town I lived in for 30 years: Lacey, Wa. Interesting for me. They work at JBLM, which is only 20 minutes from Lacey and Olympia, Wa, so there is a bit of misinformation with the distances. I noticed that she tells him she might accept a job in Olympia and he responds by asking if she's willing to move that far, but it's literally 20 minutes at the most, so I'm not sure why he says that.

This is a Christian themed story and this station is not afraid to talk about it, unlike Hallmark.

If it was made in 2013, it would've worked better

[kristinjhardi · 7/10 · 13 December 2023]

As others here have mentioned, how could the writers not have considered the proper ages of the characters?? As an example, if this movie was meant to have taken place 10 years ago (in 2013), it would have been much more convincing... the main character's mom would have been 69, which may have been more believable than 79! The WWII veterans also appeared to be too young... they would have to have been at least 97 in reality; they looked more like 80 tops. Other than that distracting bit of oversight, the movie was a delight, and very uplifting. I'm not currently associated with the military, but my grandfather was a flight engineer in WWII... and as an American, I appreciate greatly, and honor, those who served and serve. Oh, and I also thought the chemistry between the main characters was wonderful!

Heartwarming

[barbblack1 · 10/10 · 28 November 2023]

As the daughter of a WW II B-17 pilot/Captain I was especially touched by this wonderful movie. Loved it from beginning to end. When we honor our military we acknowledge the great freedom they provide. Enjoyed the actors and script. Wasn't overly "sappy" but there were heartfelt moments throughout. Touched on PTSD issues our brave men and women face. Thought there was really good chemistry between all the characters. Of course, there was predictability as the story develops but it was still well done as it unfolded. Even my husband who is not normally drawn to these movies was drawn in. If you want a feel good patriotic Christmas movie this is it.

Sort of enjoyable

[jnh-123-746786 · 6/10 · 7 February 2024]

I wanted to like this movie but my head was busy most of the time trying to get it around the fact that a woman born near the end of WW11 looked not a day over 60 when in fact she would be nearer 80 than 70. Then the granddaughter portrayed as in her 30s would in real life be closer to, if not already 50. The 'saved' soldier Chris at least used a walking stick but he too would be in fact be almost 100 and this gentleman wasn't near that. The premise was good but I found all these casting errors way too distracting and it puzzles me that the people putting this movie together didn't do the math. Perhaps if they had added another generation it could have worked a whole lot better.

Super cringey! Not in a good way.

[guaxary · 2/10 · 8 December 2023]

Great cast but sadly that's about it. And even that is wrong since the age gap between actresses playing mother and daughter is just too small. Ok, kudos to the set design, music, costumes and makeup... Military references sound like written by somebody who doesn't understand a thing about war and soldiers.

There are meta references trying to make fun of the Christmas movie genre, but they just miss the point/are not funny enough to justify some stereotypical plot decisions. (Ok, maybe the one when they walk in the snow wearing just thin jackets, no hats, scarves or gloves and he asks her if she isn't cold and she says that yeah, she is very warm was a bit funny).

And even their Jesus references are so pompous and stiff that they didn't manage to tie him to Christmas!

And how come we're supposed to believe that American soldiers who fought in WWII are still out and about.

No real feelings, no reflection, just reciting stereotypical lines - I know that plenty of people, especially religious and military related use those ready-scripts in their real life but that works only in the inner circle, not when you're trying to make your 'cause' interesting to the outside world.

The cherry on the top: there is absolutely no romance chemistry between the main characters. I wonder if that's the main actress just holding back because she wants to be seen as a good christian wife in her private life.

So yeah, despite the dialogues being so full of moral righteousness, everyone in the movie seems to be selfish, focused on their own agenda, manipulative or calculated...

Movie with Value!

[skillfulcota · 10/10 · 27 November 2023]

As the granddaughter of a Pearl Harbor Survivior, I appreciated the depth that this movie goes to value the lives of the American Military members and Space Force. Although a fiction story with some minor goofs in history, the writers do a fabulous job honoring those who serve and examining the topic of brain injury and PTSD. The entire cast in this movie is A++ .

Loved the American Christmas traditions and many little things that make the season bright instead of "ugly" There was so much hot cocoa that I will be trying to replicate the treat at home. America needed this movie reminder in this season of chaos in the world. Thank you Great American Family for another FABULOUS REAL CHRISTMAS MOVIE!

Timeline of movies not in synch

[kitkatsliva · 6/10 · 31 January 2024]

Just watching movie now. There were so many msny holiday movies.

Anyway, i am also confused.

If he died at 20 in 1944 and his daughter was born then.

It would make Fran almost 80, which clearly is not the case. And nicole might be in her 50s- again not.

Now if the movie were set in the 1990s, then maybe, but there us no indication that it is. The only thing somewhat accurate is the couple at the beginning married 76 yrs .

It would have made more chronological sense to have made "Fran" the granddaughter and Nicole the greatgrandaughter.

Do the writers not consider timelines?

In future movies, please review the year if the movie and the ages of nor only the characters but also the ages of tge actors playing them.

Sleeper

[bethwriter-32501 · 1/10 · 13 December 2023]

CCB is so prim and unapproachable in this movie that I could barely watch it. Honestly, it was boring and there was zero chemistry. I hope that Gabriel Hogan comes back to Hallmark because it felt like the actors were doing business transactions throughout the movie versus having a romance.

There are loads of inaccurate information related to the historical events that were discussed in the movie. I am not sure what to think about the movie as it was not interesting or engaging at all.

Good luck to GAC/GAF or whatever their channel initials are. Their scriptwriters and producers leave a lot to be desired and don't even get me started on the subpar acting and overall movie direction.

I would give this zero stars if that was a choice.

Maybe not a rewatch every day, but worth a return to.

[Lily-32 · 8/10 · 3 January 2024]

This won't be a movie I become obsessed with and watch a dozen times in a week. But I did really enjoy it for what it did well. It was a little clunky at parts where they tried hanging the lantern on certain topics but otherwise it was a well made film made better by the unashamed references to the real reason for Christmas which is Jesus Christ. Hallmark has gotten too comfortable claiming all these tertiary reasons on what Christmas is all about while ignoring that all those things are offshoots of the One who is truly the meaning behind Christmas. It's refreshing that Great American Family is bringing that message back.

And the cast was wonderful as well, great to see several familiar and favorite faces while adding a few new ones that also excelled. I can't remember the last time Hallmark made me cry but GAF did it with this one. No the ideas weren't 100 fresh but the way they were portrayed drew out the tenderness in my heart and I got teary eyed several times when other movies had me cringing. The character of Landon played his roll especially well and really touched my heart.

If you too are unashamed of the Savior of the world, give this one a try.,

If you need a movie to sleep too

[amykstidham-10990 · 1/10 · 14 December 2023]

This movie left me utterly unimpressed and bewildered by the high acclaim it garnered here. As a devout individual myself, I had hoped for a better movie that would resonate with my spirit. I cannot in good conscience bestow upon this lackluster production more than a solitary star just because Candence Camron Bure is in it.

One aspect that particularly disappointed me was the chemistry, or rather the lack thereof, between the female protagonist, portrayed by the esteemed Candence CB, and her male counterpart. A successful romantic film hinges upon the palpable connection between its leads, a connection that was regrettably nonexistent in this movie. It is incumbent upon an actor, especially one who frequents the realm of romance, to embody the essence of their character and breathe life into their performance. It is with great regret that I must assert that such was not the case for CB in this film. If she wishes to continue gracing the screen with her presence in romantic movies, it is imperative that she fully embrace her role and deliver a performance that resonates with the audience. She comes off as cold in that department. Maybe she needs to step back from the romance genre if she truly doesn't have a heart for it anymore due to her own faith.

Furthermore, the film's depiction of historical events pertaining to World War II was rife with inaccuracies. It was disheartening to witness such a disregard for historical veracity, especially when a simple act of due diligence in the form of a few quick Google searches could have rectified these inaccuracies. The responsibility of a filmmaker extends beyond mere entertainment; it also entails a certain level of commitment to presenting events accurately, particularly when dealing with significant historical periods.

Wow Wow Wow

[vjf36 · 10/10 · 25 November 2023]

This by far is the best GAC movie to date. Candace Cameron hits it out of the park. Outstanding beiivzble acting coupled with a light comedic touch. The sentiment and sense of tradition was overwhelming Her partner was also very good.

The actress who played her mom was excellent choice and did a marvelous job. It's amazing how well done and believable this movie was. Please do more movies like this. The directing storyline were tops. More and more movies like this will propel GAC pass HallMark hallmark has lost its way but GAC has brought back wonderful wholesome movies please use this review because more people see this the more viewers you will get Hurrah for GAC.

Heartwarming

[kariclark-11298 · 10/10 · 25 November 2023]

Such a sweet story about the Christmas season. This movie brings the focus of this season back to faith and family. The story of a doctor in the reserves that meets a veteran soldier that is trying to help other wounded veterans and raise funds to build a facility on base for wounded soldiers. The fun of family traditions and a spin on festive sweaters and the reason this family celebrates them this way. The search for her grandfather's history from WWII. Connecting veterans on base with programs that can help them during the season get gifts for their families. Of course there are obstacles to the fund raising and a reluctant love spark between the main characters. This story is enjoyable for all and does pull at the heartstrings.

Badly, badly written

[hilary_mae-912-80561 · 1/10 · 9 February 2024]

This movie was badly, badly written.

So, her mother's dad died in 1944 and as this was a 2023 movie, that would make her 79 years old. Clearly the actors and producers are incredibly stupid as the actress is only 61 years old.

How can people be this stupid? Did no one, literally no one point this out?

Then of course, the story line zooms along so fast, and the conversations and relationships progress so quickly it's like watching a hamster on a wheel.

The religious overtones were/are gag worthy and you have grown adults treated like children by the character who is supposed to be the aged old mother of 79, but in reality is a very youthful 61 year old. It's ridiculous!!

It's absurd and overall...an empty, meaningless movie.

The movie was actually embarrassing to watch.

Yes I Gave It a 10!

[lorid-73828 · 10/10 · 26 November 2023]

Ok Great American Family you did it again, you literally made me cry twice so far this season, once with Paris Christmas Waltz and now with My Christmas Hero! I wholeheartedly enjoyed this movie especially since it was about all those who have fought and still fight for our GREAT country. I had a pretty good idea this would be one of my favorites because it starred Candace Cameron Bure & Gabriel Hogan, I love them both. I also enjoyed all the supporting actors as well. I have seen most of them in other projects. As was the case with Paris Christmas Waltz, I was not immediately put into a light slumber nor did I roll my eyes once, this movie had me at hello and kept me interested until the end. I must also add, the very first scene in which I cried was of the young soldier with PTSD, too many people take for granted what our soldiers have done and continue to do for us every single day and I'm so glad it was showcased here. I loved the plot, the actors... but most of all the message! Kudos to all involved- PS: Great work CCB, your input to the network is most definitely paying off and thank you for bringing God back to Christmas 💕

Movie deserving of a10

[sissisonik · 10/10 · 30 November 2023]

This movie showed something that no other movie Christmas or non Christmas on any cable station was willing to put in a movie. The struggles that our veterans go through how PTSD affects their lives and the lives of their families. The scene with the young serviceman telling Candace's character how he injured his shoulder had me in tears. The comments focusing on historical inaccuracies as they called it showed me exactly who they are. I can find numerous inaccuracies in movies I watch but I overlook them because the movie is fiction not real. It is a shame that people feel the need to report on little details.

A Lovely Movie

[wayfind · 9/10 · 1 December 2023]

In spite of my delight at seeing Gabe Hogan, one of my favorite actors, onscreen, I was slow to warm up to this movie, for some reason. As the story progressed, however, I was very much drawn into it. It's a lovely, warm story that conveys important messages about what the men and women of the armed services - and their families - go through both abroad and at home.

While I agree that some of the actors and actresses seem much too young, I think it must be difficult to find a capable actor in his mid- to late-nineties to play a WWII vet. Perhaps they could have "aged" those actors, but I will say that the mom of a friend was vigorous in her early nineties, and looked much younger than she was. I concede that an older actress should have been cast as Bure's mother, as the woman would have to have been 78 years old, realistically.

There is some conjecture that the movie isn't historically accurate, since it's supposed by some that there could have been no fighting in northern Italy after June, 1944. However, a quick search using the term "WWII Italy December 1944" instantly turned up the battle that is referenced in the movie. It was the Battle of Garfagnana, Italy which took place in very late December, 1944 and was devastating to the allied forces that were there. So, the creators of this story did, in fact, do their homework.

As I mentioned, I always love Gabriel Hogan's work, and the presence of Robin Dunne was an added treat. Unless someone has such an aversion to Christian references that they couldn't stand two or three, I recommend this well-acted and meaningful movie.

Great Show!

[jybaxter · 10/10 · 4 December 2023]

Now that was one great show! My husband and I loved the military aspect. Both our fathers survived World War II. My father served in Italy and North Africa in the United States Army. He was in the Signal Corp. My husband's father served on ships escorting convoys crossing the North Atlantic Ocean protecting them from enemy submarines. He served in the United States Coast Guard, a part of the United States Navy. His ship was torpedoed, but he survived even though his death was reported in the home newspaper. We also loved that this movie honored Jesus Christ as the reason for Christmas season!!!

Don't listen to the critics

[amarnold-52453 · 10/10 · 16 January 2024]

I think some people has forgotten the purpose of movies and tv shows. They are meant to entertain. I am glad that I didn't pay any attention to the critics of this movie. I enjoyed every second of this movie. It made me laugh and it made me cry. It made me proud to be an American and a Christian. One of my favorite scenes was the way the way Candace's character treated that young private and the way her character treated the elderly couple. Such tenderness and kindness. I don't have one bad word to say about this movie and I am so glad that I took the time to watch it. Well done GAC. Well done👏👏👏👏

Cute Movie, but fraught with errors

[imvashti-1 · 8/10 · 10 December 2023]

I did like the showcasing of resources, sacrifices, and honor for the military, and liked seeing Ike from Tacoma FD starring in this movie set near Tacoma.

As someone who lived in Lacey for over 40 years, and has had access to JBLM and its medical facilities (Madigan Army Medical Center and McChord Medical Clinic, this movie's location elements made me cringe. There is no JBLM Medical Center, and Madigan, and its attached clinic, looks nothing like the facility shown. Also, the view of Mt. Rainier did not seem to match that from either Lacey or Madigan.

Additionally, all the snow shown on the ground at the Lacey event was so off from our weather. There is rarely any snow on the ground in December - if it arrives at all, it comes in January or February.

There were other issues re: historical timing and uniforms that grated (the upside-down rank on a soldier at the end really bothered my husband).

One of Her best.

[lynetteflagg · 10/10 · 4 December 2023]

Candace Cameron has done a lot of wonderful Christmas movies but this one is one of her best. First off let me say how natural and amazing and refreshing it is to her GOD and JESUS being mentioned in a movie so effortlessly, gently and not preachy. It feels so good to watch programs and movies and still hear about GOD so cool. Also though the storyline was well written and it honors the true heroes in our country. The chemistry with the whole cast was amazing but especially between her and Daniel there chemistry was amazing and the back and forth banter was so sweet and loving. Candace is the Christmas Queen. She really knows how to give you all the warm feelings in her Christmas movies since she made the switch to Great American Family.