Operation Christmas (2016 TV Movie) User Reviews

Homecoming for heroes

[TheLittleSongbird · 7/10 · 10 August 2021]

Hallmark are very variable when it comes to their output, especially their Christmas films, the best being very good and the worst being absolutely awful. While they tend to follow one formula and use it frequently with not much variation, there are times where they have a more mature story with more serious themes meaning that they are very capable with doing things differently to usual. That is the case with their military-themed Christmas films.

'Operation Christmas' is one of those films, and although 'Christmas Homecoming' and 'Holiday for Heroes' represent the military with more respect and accuracy (so if anybody prefers those films that's fair enough), when it comes to the performances, the lead chemistry and the emotion 'Operation Christmas' is the best faring of the three in my view. Though it is actually overall quality-wise a close call. While it is far from perfect and not my definition of a great film, it is proof that Hallmark should not be immediately written off and compares favourably when it comes to ranking their work.

Is 'Operation Christmas' flawless? No. It is a bit of a slow starter, with the film taking a while to get going in terms of pace (some sluggish moments here) and story progression (quite uneventful and predictable to begin with).

The portrayal of the military in 'Christmas Homecoming' and 'Holiday for Heroes' was also more realistic and human, it's somewhat too over-idealised here. The dialogue could have flowed better early on.

Conversely, Tricia Helfer is a likeable and heartfelt leading lady. Although Marc Blucas was a little better in 'Holiday for Heroes', the subtlety he has in his performance matches Helfer beautifully. Their chemistry actually felt warm and genuine, and the way it blossoms when it develops is not too sudden or feels too long to get there. Lisa Durupt and Gabrielle Rose sparkle in their supporting roles, particularly Durupt who has the most personality of the cast.

Furthermore, 'Operation Christmas' is a pleasant looking film with the scenery standing out in particular, while the soundtrack matches the spirit of the holiday and the film's themes very well. The script is neither too corny or over-serious, and doesn't come over as muddled tonally. Really liked its sincerity and heart. The story is very heart-warming and moving, its good intentions too admirable. The characters didn't come over as caricatures or one-dimensional, but instead came over as not too perfect or overly flawed real people.

Summarising, good if not great. 7/10.

This is one to watch

[Debzreview · 7/10 · 13 November 2017]

I saw this one for the first time this year and wasn't sure if I would like it for some reason. But I was pleasantly surprised. Emotions are up and down but overall it's a feel good movie with a tearjerker ending. I'm not sure how it happened but these two lead actors were new to me but WOW Tricia and Marc were great together. I have since seen them each in other movies and they have both become favorites.

Good Enjoyable Movie

[gehewe · 8/10 · 30 December 2016]

I rate it a good but not great movie. The lead actress and actor were OK in their roles but did not quite make it superb. The story especially at the beginning had some surprise in it, but then faded a little when the "Operation Christmas" got started. The issue of separation of husband and wife for these military Ranger Units was brought out and this brought about the main struggle for the lead actress. The movie did not pull off this struggle in a compelling way, but the ending was well done. The little girl in "A Heavenly Christmas" was also in this movie and pulled an emotional "I love you" which added to the drama. I would say the movie was more of a drama than romance. It passed the doze test (no one fell asleep) and I would probably not watch it again.

more than nice

[Kirpianuscus · 8 January 2021]

Army, mothers, Christmas trees,military wives, gifts, romance, kids.... A complete Hallmark, offering two good presences - Gabrielle Rose and Marc Blucas. Short, decent and charming , first for the smart use of dilemma of a career woman , attracted by military, animated by fears, desiring full happiness, heart of impressive show. So, far to be bad.

Great Story, Shameful disregard for military details

[KA2F · 6/10 · 11 November 2021]

I agree with other reviewers on this. It could have been a 10. I do not see why the writers of such a great story with great characters and great acting put up with this.

And it would be so easy to fix. Almost anyone with military experience could help you avoid this shameful fiasco. You have to understand that decorum and attention to detail are very important in the military, especially to those who served and their families.

I want to end though on the positive. Great story, great writing, and great acting, and great portrayal of the anguish and sacrifice of military families. I will ignore the terrible portrayal of "all things military" and watch it again.

Great energy from the leads

[HotToastyRag · 7/10 · 22 December 2021]

I loved this one! I've seen a lot of Hallmark military-themed Christmas movies, and Operation Christmas might be my favorite. With great chemistry between the leads, an important message, a love story to root for, and a tear at the end, what else is there?

Whenever you see Marc Blucas's name in a Hallmark, it's a good clue that the tv movie will feel more like a big screen movie than most of the others. He's a Hollywood-turned-Hallmark who treats every film as though it's the most important of his career. Plus he's a cutie, too! And Hallmark has a great type-cast for him as a strong soldier with a big heart. Tricia Helfer completely holds her own and doesn't let him take up all the energy on the screen. She's also strong, a career woman and single mom, but when she meets Marc on a Christmas vacation, she lets her girly sensibilities take over. He loses her number, she doesn't get his message, and a one big misunderstanding later, they're given a second chance.

What's the conflict? Even the lightest of Hallmarks has a conflict, right? This movie teaches about the sacrifice needed to become a military spouse. Tricia doesn't know if she has what it takes, and even though she's falling in love with him, she can't stand certain things about his job. When he has to leave, he has to leave. He can't tell her where or for how long, and she'll never know if she'll even see him again.

Will love conquer all? Watch this touching Hallmark Christmas flick to find out. Any military family, or any girl with a boyfriend in the service, will need their hankies at the end of the movie. I highly recommend this one; my family looks forward to it every year.

Sleep Safe America!

[drippan-1 · 9/10 · 24 November 2016]

This movie is a salute to and from all United States Military Personnel and their families. It is about the hardships and unexpected situations and problems that every family faces. It definitely shows the 'unknown' that military life brings.

Tricia and Marc did an excellent job of showing the heartache that is faced by not only their situation but others' problems by other families. Tricia and Marc put everything they had into this movie especially the love their characters felt for each other. The three children were perfect in each of their roles. The music and Christmas carols were placed in the movie at the right place and time. The ending carol is a message that all of America can sleep safely tonight as our brave men and women are on guard throughout the world.

A special thanks must go to Hallmark and especially Nina Wienman (writer) for capturing the heart of the military and their families. As a Marine Veteran, I have faced a lot of the same problems that were shown in this movie including being away several times at Christmas and the extended tours of duty overseas.

This movie is a 10 even though there are some goofs/mistakes. These goofs/mistakes are way over shadowed by the message this movie brings. That message is to face the unknown with bravery, courage and honor while sharing your fear with others.

THIS IS A MUST SEE MOVIE BY ALL. If you loved 'The Christmas Card' Christmas movie, you are going to more than love 'Operation Christmas'!

Great Christmas Movie If You Overlook Military Inaccuracies

[brian_green-99489 · 10/10 · 15 December 2016]

I'll start off with saying that I really liked this film. It was obviously shot in the summer, which made all of the snow (other than the glacier scene) a little comical. The unending sunshine is also only possible in the summer in the Pacific Northwest. It's all stuff we can overlook.

The idea of meeting someone whom puts themselves in danger for the greater good is a theme used throughout the years, and for good reason. It's an underlying theme of Christmas as well. Tricia Helfer knocked her role out of the park in this film, and I'd have never found this film had it not been for her mentioning it on Twitter.

The military stuff was entirely annoying as a veteran, but I understand that most writers have only a cursory knowledge of the military when doing their writing. Firefighters say the same thing when watching firefighting movies. Writers are rarely experts in their subject matter. I'd like to have seen active duty military there to advise on dress & appearance. I'd also wished that deployments were more accurately depicted, but this isn't a film about the military. It's a film about giving, and what it means to come together as a community for Christmas. One has to understand that distinction. I, as a veteran, understand that. They did a great job with this film once you get past nit-picking, and I'll watch it every Christmas from here on out.

The story was a 10; the attention to detail was a 0

[rkarakis · 5/10 · 13 November 2020]

It was a great story that accurately captured the apprehension and stress that military families face, something that non-military families will never understand nor completely appreciate. Hats off to the writer and to Hallmark for presenting this in such a compelling manner.

That said, it was downright insulting to see the total lack of attention paid to the actual details of any and all things military. The total ignorance of anything related to military uniforms, in particular, was beyond irritating and took away from an otherwise heartwarming story. Shame on everyone involved.

If you only have time to watch one Hallmark movie, this one is it

[msarajoy · 10/10 · 19 June 2020]

This show is for anyone who wants to still believe in beauty in this crazy world and who recognise that we are each part of something so much bigger than any one person.

Tricia, the lead actress is luminous in her role and she is as warm and human as anyone can get. Marc is amazing and completely convincing in the role he plays. And the children are beautiful kids, even the slightly snarky teen.

After watching (and dissolving into a puddle of grateful tears), I realised that it is a real option to choose to have a good man or woman in your life for part of the year than to not have them at all. Love is so fleeting anyway so if it comes your way today, love as much as you can now. Tomorrow is not a guarantee for anyone.

And Marc really portrays a very good man. I was thinking gee, if you don't want him, I'll take him! Hahahaaa (kidding, sort of)

Thank you Hallmark for this wonderful show that is not about a young and annoying Bridezilla trying to get her perfect wedding in the perfect month at the perfect place (bleah!) or trying to run away from a wedding (double bleah!).

Thank you for making a show about a love that even we believe will last and tonight I will sleep remembering there is beauty in this world.

To all servicemen and women who sacrifice so much so that we may live free, we salute you with the liberty of the flags of all the nations, flags that can fly free because of you. Thank you, we will never forget your service.

I just saw this as part of "Xmas in July." Not bad! But, Hallmark did much better with CHRISTMAS CARD.

[Carycomic · 5/10 · 15 July 2019]

I don't blame Tricia Helfer or Marc Blucas. They did the best they could with the script they were given. But, Blucas definitely had more chemistry with Brook D'orsay's character in the following year's MISS CHRISTMAS. While Tricia Helfer was more believable as Caleb's divorced mom in 2013's FINDING CHRISTMAS!

I also objected to the scene where the actress playing Olivia's younger sister calls Olivia a coward. As far as I'm permanently concerned, that was an overly harsh term that the writers had no legitimate need to include in the dialogue for that scene. Because, while it might be cowardice for a bride or groom to desert their intended spouse, quite literally, at the altar, it is most definitely _not_ cowardice for any real-life woman, in the same situation as Olivia, to have doubts about taking an active-duty career soldier as a second husband. It is, in fact, an all-too justifiable concern!

Don't get me wrong. My inner hopeless romantic is glad there was a happy ending for both parties! But, I still regard Olivia's sister using the word "cowardice," in reference to Olivia's not-unreasonable hesitancy, as the sign of a holier-than-thou hypocrite.

Which, as far as I'm permanently concerned, makes her worse than a coward.

Great and unusual Christmas movie

[EricBrunel · 9/10 · 22 December 2017]

I saw this movie in pretty bad conditions: it was airing on French TV, and, as basically all Hallmark movies, it was targeted at middle-aged housewives, who are supposed not to be able to speak English at all and to want everything in French. So no English version available, only dubbed in French, and therefore with rewritten dialog. And for this kind of movie, let's say the writers and the dubbing actors are rarely encouraged to do their best...

So it took me a bit of time to get into it, the beginning feeling a bit awkward with the actors speaking in a voice that isn't theirs and having sometimes cheesy lines of rewritten dialog. But from when Olivia and Scott meet for the second time and the "Operation Christmas" actually starts to get prepared, I got hooked. No Santa Claus or so-called "Christmas magic" here: it's a story of real people in quite a difficult situation who are just trying to get their little share of happiness in this supposedly joyful time of the year. This is the kind of movie that relies a lot on the actors, and I guess that for such a film often considered "minor", some would just "do the job" and hurry back home for dinner. Here, the whole cast is great and does an excellent work. But one of them especially shines, and that's Tricia Helfer: she gives everything she's got to her character, and really makes you feel for this woman, torn between the excitement of a starting romance she thought would no more happen, and her high doubts about herself being able to cope with the kind of life you get with a man in the military. And let me be honest: mostly because of her performance and in spite of the awkward French dubbing, I ended up with my eyes not completely dry.

So of course, there are probably some factual inaccuracies and the ending is quite cliché. Well now, as someone else has pointed out: this is a Hallmark movie, it has to have a cliché ending. But all in all, this is one of the best Christmas movies I've seen, and if it ever reaches my side of the Atlantic as a DVD, I'll definitely buy it - and probably get another weird look from my wife for getting this kind of "girly" stuff...

Great Christmas movie waiting for the wedding sequel

[sandrinha-84910 · 10/10 · 17 January 2019]

I watched it this year and loved it. I think that the actors did really well. Christmas movies are a must I watch them every year they have become part of my holiday tradition. The only sad thing is that sometimes it would be nice to see a sequel, to know what happens after the final kiss. Do they really get married? How? What happens when every day real life kicks in.

Veteran

[robertsilva-03294 · 3/10 · 12 November 2018]

This movie has a great story that hits home for military families, especially spouses who are left behind to keep the ship sailing while their spouse is deployed. As a veteran I find this movie very insulting with the lack of research the cast did on the uniforms especially. If you are going to do a military movie have a consultant or at least use the proper uniforms for the rank the actors are. Also please use the correct rank for the job you are having the actors do. For example having a Captain be a gate guard, this is an MP job and usually enlisted soldiers. The military part of the movie drove me crazy.

Moving

[Jackbv123 · 10/10 · 27 November 2017]

I have tremendous respect for the military. A movie like this always makes me nervous because I hope that the movie makers don't inadvertently cause anguish for those who live it.

This movie deals with a lot of emotional issues for those in the military. The family left behind have a difficult life and for many of them, the emotional situation is not helped by the financial situation. As for the emotions of family of someone you know is going into the most dangerous situations possible, I am pretty sure I couldn't do it. This is what Olivia has never faced before and she has already lost a husband to divorce. And she tries to make an honest decision. I totally disagree with one statement made by her sister (when you see it you will know what I mean).

Tricia Helfer has an emotional role and for me, this is one of the better performances I can remember on a made for TV movie (or a someone put it, the so-called B actors). This was not a B movie performance. Over and over she captured the raw emotion.

The story was excellent even if perhaps some technical details were incorrect. The way the story was introduced at Whisper and then finished at the base was great. Seeing the lives of wives waiting at home, including a pregnant one was great. Seeing the toy drive and fundraiser put together was great. And there was plenty of good singing. (And even some bad singing for humor.) The other actors were good. Some of the scenery in the beginning gives reality to the word breathtaking.

This is a Hallmark movie. It has a Hallmark ending. They all do. You expect that.

Okay but false impression

[saliston · 4/10 · 1 December 2016]

This movie tried to hit the target but missed it by a mile. I was in the military and while you can ship out anytime the ways its portrayed in this movie is so far off base. Also they show a lifestyle for a sergeant that is way out of their pay range. I just didn't like it. I hate when they try to do movies about military life but don't fully do research. That or they just change it to fit their so called "vision". Also you don't deploy one day and come back the next. That just doesn't happen. When deployed its for a while not just 24 hours. They fact that everyone is oh its the military life we love it its great is false. Also they make the lady the bad person because she has concerns. Sorry but she had a valid point.

I loved this movie!

[brenjjonesfb · 10/10 · 14 November 2019]

I haven't seen this movie until now (2019). I loved it! I especially loved that Hallmark made a movie that incorporated the Christian faith! I would like to see more of that!

Comment to the first review.

[derekbywater1 · 9/10 · 18 December 2018]

Great movie..wonderful setting in CANADA with CANADIAN actors. A beautiful tribute to ALL our Troops who are Deployed over the holidays. As a serving Member who has been deployed over the holidays, it was wonderfully emotional. The only USA content is Marc (who spells his name the Canadian way)

Away is a Ranger

[frukuk · 1/10 · 8 November 2020]

This just didn't draw me in. Tricia Helfer played Olivia Young Roberts as such a low energy, low mood character. Marc Blucas played Scott McGuigan as if he really didn't care what happened. There needed to be much more emotion to effectively tug at the audience's heartstrings.

One of the best!

[rireland-198-265397 · 10/10 · 24 December 2018]

One of my favorite Christmas movies(and I watch a ton of them)! The characters seem so real. It is filled with beautiful scenery, too. I enjoyed seeing a romance story with grown- ups in it. The romance seemed to progress in a natural way and the kids were cute but realistic. I highly recommend this film!

never trust anyone that says trust me

[sandcrab277 · 5/10 · 16 January 2018]

I think tricia does a good job of acting along side the bozo marc...he's very smug about himself...the big problem i have with him is his lack of regard for wearing the uniform properly...white tee shirts are never worn under the sweater unless you wear the proper blouse over it...sweaters are never decorated with ribbons or badges, only the epaulets...similarly, the light weight jacket is never worn over a tee shirt unless the tee is covered by the proper blouse...recommended tee shirts are v neck so they don't show under the blouse....head covers are never worn indoors...if you are doing a film about the military its necessary to get it right please

"Billy, Don't be a hero!"

[adamjohns-42575 · 8/10 · 5 December 2020]

I'm beginning to think that Marc Blucas is a bit type-cast, playing another soldier here and it's a shame, because those fatigues do nothing for his fine physique.

This one isn't quite as fun as "Holiday For Heroes" covering more of the serious element of army life and those left behind. I have to admit that I cried again at the end.

One of the things I don't understand is why these soldiers all need so much support. How badly are they paid that they can't even afford a Christmas tree? I would have thought the US would have treated "Their Boys" and girls much better than that as they all mean so much apparently?

The cast is all very good, the young lad is a cutey, but the little girl is just cringey and precocious.

It's a nice story, very similar to others, but it has a bit more heart wrenching than most.

A heartfelt story

[Donovan002 · 10/10 · 23 December 2018]

This movie took a love story and framed it within the confines of military life. The acting was excellant at all levels. It's not a documentary jus a wonderful Christmas love story. Don't get hung up with details of the military. Focus on the human element from parents of service personnel, spouses and children and the emotion that is felt with deployment.

Hallmark does such a good job. This is worth watching

Operation Christmas Fail

[P3n-E-W1s3 · 1/10 · 28 December 2016]

This film should've been much better than it was.

For a start, it has some of my favoured television "B-Cast List" actors with Marc Blucas, Gabrielle Rose, and Lisa Durupt. However, actors can only act out the script at the director's direction, and this is where the film fell flat.

The writer, instead of going for deep and meaningful, tried for schmaltzy and sweet... and failed. All you got was cliché, after cliché, after cliché, and so on...

They had so much scope for a heartfelt and expressive Christmas movie with a hint of romance and serious family issues revolving around the army and any manoeuvres that may occur during the festive season.

The direction was standard and none too engaging.

The predictable "throw-away" ending only made me grimace and feel sorry for the spouses, who were sat in the audience, who weren't as lucky as the love interest in the movie.

This is how not to make a Christmas Film and I'd recommend viewers to stay clear.

Another good bad Xmas film

[kathypenrose · 10/10 · 28 October 2018]

Love love love this film. Poor story makes it really good! Our favourite child actor is still as annoying as she normally is, which adds to the poor story! One of our faves! Recorded for repeat watching!