An American-Canadian TV film drama; A story about a young woman who travels to a small-town in Vermont hoping to spend the perfect Christmas with her boyfriend and long-lost family, but someone wants to reveal who her real father is. This is the second film in a trilogy. As a Hallmark TV movie it ticks the feel-good boxes and offers an upbeat story about truth and grace.
24 Reviews
Worth engaging in
TheLittleSongbird19 January 2021
Found myself really liking the first film 'Finding Father Christmas', which did live up thankfully to its intriguing premise. It was not a masterpiece certainly, but it was one of the best 2016 Hallmark Christmas films and one of their better Christmas films overall too in my view. It similarly contained some of the best work of both Erin Krakow and Niall Matter. Seeing that they had returned for its follow up 'Engaging Father Christmas', expectations were far from low.
Despite worrying that, considering that it is a sequel (and Hallmark are very variable at best usually when it comes to their sequels), it would be too more of the same. Luckily, 'Engaging Father Christmas' doesn't feel too much like that. It is not quite as good a film perhaps as 'Finding Father Christmas', but as far as Hallmark sequels go it is up there as one of the better ones and doesn't disgrace the first film at all. They do go well with watching back to back.
'Engaging Father Christmas' isn't perfect. Will admit to not liking the story as much, this aspect had a good deal more freshness in 'Finding Father Christmas' and tonally it felt more focused tonally. Actually didn't mind that the film was predictable, but the moments of bizarre silliness and not always tight enough pace were less forgivable.
Again the ending was on the rushed side, contrived somewhat too, and the script could have been tighter.
However, there is so much to like about 'Engaging Father Christmas'. It looks pleasing, despite the location not being authentic to me it didn't look too fake and was attractive in its own way. The photography is slick enough. There is a tendency in Hallmark to have the music too prominent and intrusive, found neither to be the case (not distractingly so anyhow) here. The script may be imperfect, but it was light hearted and had good intentions, the cheese and schmaltz not feeling too much.
Likewise, the story has imperfections but for all its predictability as such it did make me feel warm inside, it was very charming and it did have heart without being heavy or over serious. Krakow and Matter return, as does Wendie Malick, and they don't disappoint. Krakow is restrained and sensitive while never looking phoned in or stiff. Matt is pleasantly understated and sympathetic too without ever being too low key, and he looks relaxed. While their chemistry was natural and affecting in 'Finding Father Christmas', it has even more spark and growth here in 'Engaging Father Christmas'. Malick is a breath of fresh air once again. Everyone is well above average and while the characters are not deep they were at least worth connecting with in my view. The direction is accomodating without being too deliberate.
Concluding, well done. 7/10
Despite worrying that, considering that it is a sequel (and Hallmark are very variable at best usually when it comes to their sequels), it would be too more of the same. Luckily, 'Engaging Father Christmas' doesn't feel too much like that. It is not quite as good a film perhaps as 'Finding Father Christmas', but as far as Hallmark sequels go it is up there as one of the better ones and doesn't disgrace the first film at all. They do go well with watching back to back.
'Engaging Father Christmas' isn't perfect. Will admit to not liking the story as much, this aspect had a good deal more freshness in 'Finding Father Christmas' and tonally it felt more focused tonally. Actually didn't mind that the film was predictable, but the moments of bizarre silliness and not always tight enough pace were less forgivable.
Again the ending was on the rushed side, contrived somewhat too, and the script could have been tighter.
However, there is so much to like about 'Engaging Father Christmas'. It looks pleasing, despite the location not being authentic to me it didn't look too fake and was attractive in its own way. The photography is slick enough. There is a tendency in Hallmark to have the music too prominent and intrusive, found neither to be the case (not distractingly so anyhow) here. The script may be imperfect, but it was light hearted and had good intentions, the cheese and schmaltz not feeling too much.
Likewise, the story has imperfections but for all its predictability as such it did make me feel warm inside, it was very charming and it did have heart without being heavy or over serious. Krakow and Matter return, as does Wendie Malick, and they don't disappoint. Krakow is restrained and sensitive while never looking phoned in or stiff. Matt is pleasantly understated and sympathetic too without ever being too low key, and he looks relaxed. While their chemistry was natural and affecting in 'Finding Father Christmas', it has even more spark and growth here in 'Engaging Father Christmas'. Malick is a breath of fresh air once again. Everyone is well above average and while the characters are not deep they were at least worth connecting with in my view. The direction is accomodating without being too deliberate.
Concluding, well done. 7/10
A Phony Winter ruins this story.
eb99914 November 2018
I watch most of the Hallmark Christmas stories and unfortunately, the majority of them are clearly made in the summer. This, then is one of the worst. It does have likeable proficient actors, but despite talking a lot about the cold and chopping wood and sitting around the fireplace, anyone who's lived through a real winter can see how phony the setting is! The outdoor scenes are ridiculous. No one has buttoned their coats and there's no misty breath from cold temperatures. Also at times the background shows greenery where there shouldn't be any. Also little piles of snow with a lot of puddles are not convincing.
I gave the film a 6 because I liked the actors, but every time I noticed the fake setting, I was pulled away from the story and just saw a shabby production.
I gave the film a 6 because I liked the actors, but every time I noticed the fake setting, I was pulled away from the story and just saw a shabby production.
nice
Kirpianuscus25 November 2018
Many flaws. First, the pretext of second part of the story who seems too...fake.But a nice atmosphere. A predictable story who has the excuse of familiar characters and interesting -soft solution for save a crisis.. And not bad performances. Few strange scenes , off course, but a reasonable result. And, for a Hallmark Christmas movie , for a second part of a story about a lovely town, a daugther looking for her father and a love story , too, it is enough for enjoy it.
Part two of a Trilogy
kz917-115 July 2019
Follows Finding Father Christmas and we find that Miranda (Erin Krakow) and Ian (Niall Matter) are getting engaged this Christmas. Of course reporters are sniffing and want to blow the story of who Miranda's father is. Will they succeed?
If you enjoyed the first film, you'll be sure to enjoy the second and third installments..
If you enjoyed the first film, you'll be sure to enjoy the second and third installments..
Not bad.
adamjohns-4257511 October 2022
A Family For The Holidays (Engaging Father Christmas) (2) (2017) -
While I really didn't mind this film and it was an appropriate sequel and at least one of the better made of the genre, it was a bit samey and the lead, Miranda was so whiney, again!! And really annoying too, because she made a lot of the drama for herself through silly unrealistic choices.
Niall Matter playing Ian was as lovely as he was in the last film and I genuinely believed that Miranda was getting the better detail in the relationship, because he was so versatile and interesting while she was very one dimensional.
The supporting cast were generally acceptable, with the exception of the Splenda children, but they had such little screen time that it wasn't too offensive.
All of the other elements appeared to have had enough of a budget given to them and I liked the real snow. It's so obvious when they use the foam stuff that just cakes their boots with clouds of white sticky stuff like no snow I've ever seen.
A suitable follow on, but it didn't really add enough and I felt that without seeing the first it didn't really stand alone. It also seemed as if they had increased the importance of Miranda's father in the eyes of the world to build this story, where he was a lesser known stage actor in the first, he suddenly had a following in this.
I'm sure that I will watch it again though, because Niall was just so sexy.
5.5/10.
While I really didn't mind this film and it was an appropriate sequel and at least one of the better made of the genre, it was a bit samey and the lead, Miranda was so whiney, again!! And really annoying too, because she made a lot of the drama for herself through silly unrealistic choices.
Niall Matter playing Ian was as lovely as he was in the last film and I genuinely believed that Miranda was getting the better detail in the relationship, because he was so versatile and interesting while she was very one dimensional.
The supporting cast were generally acceptable, with the exception of the Splenda children, but they had such little screen time that it wasn't too offensive.
All of the other elements appeared to have had enough of a budget given to them and I liked the real snow. It's so obvious when they use the foam stuff that just cakes their boots with clouds of white sticky stuff like no snow I've ever seen.
A suitable follow on, but it didn't really add enough and I felt that without seeing the first it didn't really stand alone. It also seemed as if they had increased the importance of Miranda's father in the eyes of the world to build this story, where he was a lesser known stage actor in the first, he suddenly had a following in this.
I'm sure that I will watch it again though, because Niall was just so sexy.
5.5/10.
Faithful Fan of The "Finding/Engaging Father Christmas" Series
kellyloco14 February 2018
Both movies, starting with "Finding Father Christmas" complement each other VERY nicely. Very Well Directed, and 'Miranda' (Erin Krakow) comes across as a very believable / sensitive character, searching for answers leading to the identity of her real father, and her place with a far away unsuspecting family (back east, in Vermont), far removed from her Seattle connections. Her subtle but highly talented acting skills convincingly captures the audience, and takes them on a sentimental journey into solving a family mystery, and her place in not only finding who is 'Father Christmas', but the meaning of Christmas, itself ! Some subtle changes between the first movie, and the second movie are inherent, as you plunge into the sequel: "Engaging Father Christmas"... Daughter Julia Whitcomb changes young actresses (from the first movie), and one of the premises, behind the family mystery.. 'the captivating poem', behind the mystery to: "the beguiling eve".. actually changes content (a subtle line is added to the original poem, in the second movie. as was initially introduced in the first movie); But these are subtle elements / modifications that actually complement the overall finish product.
BOTH - GREAT FAMILY HOLIDAY productions - a Must See !! But these are so good, you do not have to wait for the Holiday Season, to enjoy. Can't wait for the third movie to be released, (could it be: "Marrying Father Christmas" (??). High marks in this quality holiday drama series, as we have come to know and love - both Miranda and Ian, in this instant Christmas Classic journey...
In writing this review, I am reminded by one of the 'hallmark' quotes, from the movie, that stand out - as that we should be reminded: "May Truth and Grace Reside Here".. how poignant.
BOTH - GREAT FAMILY HOLIDAY productions - a Must See !! But these are so good, you do not have to wait for the Holiday Season, to enjoy. Can't wait for the third movie to be released, (could it be: "Marrying Father Christmas" (??). High marks in this quality holiday drama series, as we have come to know and love - both Miranda and Ian, in this instant Christmas Classic journey...
In writing this review, I am reminded by one of the 'hallmark' quotes, from the movie, that stand out - as that we should be reminded: "May Truth and Grace Reside Here".. how poignant.
Taking love for granted
MickyG33325 November 2022
6.8 stars.
Good enough sequel, and it resumes nicely where the first left off. Jump forward a year, she flies back to visit the new family and build a home. What could possibly go wrong? That is the mystery every writer must face when creating the script for a sequel. What drama can we create, how do we introduce a villain, and how do we break up the love birds?
So the saga continues, all seems well, the suddenly secret gets out, and the drama ensues as anticipated.
This film is entertaining enough, there are memorable moments, and lots of touchy feely sweet encounters. Her ex pops onto the scene, and what a stud! There is some rivalry and jealousy barely worth mentioning. So what could possibly go wrong? A formulaic turn of events comes next. She looks a gift horse in the mouth, gets some sort of cold feet, takes the high road and disguises it behind some sort of unrealistic altruism.
That is it in a nutshell. Not much to write home about, a nicely wrapped package of a movie, no major flaws, music is great, writing is good, all is satisfactory.
I were you, I'd watch this simply because it's a continuation of a great first installment. On to watch the third one tonight, but I'll watch another couple Hallmarks before I embark on the harrowing adventure of viewing the third one. Why? I'm concerned that the writers are unsure of what direction to take it. Fingers crossed. You'll see my review of the sequel soon enough. I have high hopes, and low expectations. Trust but verify!
Good enough sequel, and it resumes nicely where the first left off. Jump forward a year, she flies back to visit the new family and build a home. What could possibly go wrong? That is the mystery every writer must face when creating the script for a sequel. What drama can we create, how do we introduce a villain, and how do we break up the love birds?
So the saga continues, all seems well, the suddenly secret gets out, and the drama ensues as anticipated.
This film is entertaining enough, there are memorable moments, and lots of touchy feely sweet encounters. Her ex pops onto the scene, and what a stud! There is some rivalry and jealousy barely worth mentioning. So what could possibly go wrong? A formulaic turn of events comes next. She looks a gift horse in the mouth, gets some sort of cold feet, takes the high road and disguises it behind some sort of unrealistic altruism.
That is it in a nutshell. Not much to write home about, a nicely wrapped package of a movie, no major flaws, music is great, writing is good, all is satisfactory.
I were you, I'd watch this simply because it's a continuation of a great first installment. On to watch the third one tonight, but I'll watch another couple Hallmarks before I embark on the harrowing adventure of viewing the third one. Why? I'm concerned that the writers are unsure of what direction to take it. Fingers crossed. You'll see my review of the sequel soon enough. I have high hopes, and low expectations. Trust but verify!
Best Hallmark sequel by far.
MIssM193 December 2017
Those who rated low maybe are expecting award-winning performances. I personally think that this is as good Hallmark gets. Maybe there were a few things I didn't agree with but compared to the messes that there were this year, those where just details.
I was such a fan of the first movie and luckily this one didn't disappointed me. I even understood the family's point of view of the conflict.
Miranda and Ian were even cuter than in the first movie, the chemistry was so much better. And it was kind of predictable from the first moment but it was such a good movie i'm letting that go.
Hallmark does a really good job at making me love Christmas. It really makes me want to sit next to the fire and read while drinking hot chocolate. Cliché, I know.
I was such a fan of the first movie and luckily this one didn't disappointed me. I even understood the family's point of view of the conflict.
Miranda and Ian were even cuter than in the first movie, the chemistry was so much better. And it was kind of predictable from the first moment but it was such a good movie i'm letting that go.
Hallmark does a really good job at making me love Christmas. It really makes me want to sit next to the fire and read while drinking hot chocolate. Cliché, I know.
Okay Follow up!
Christmas-Reviewer13 November 2017
Warning: Spoilers
I HAVE REVIEWED OVER 400 Christmas MOVIES.
BEWARE OF BOGUS REVIEWS. SOME REVIEWERS HAVE ONLY ONE REVIEW. WHEN ITS A POSITIVE REVIEW THAT TELLS ME THEY WERE INVOLVED WITH THE PRODUCTION. NOW I HAVE NO AGENDA! I AM HONEST! I REVIEW Christmas MOVIES AS A WAY TO KEEP TRACK OF WHAT I HAVE SEEN!
In this follow up film to "Finding Father Christmas" It's Christmas time and Miranda (Krakow) leaves Seattle with a suitcase full of presents to join her long- lost family in Carlton Heath. Hoping She will experience the joyful traditions she missed as a child. Last Christmas, Miranda fell in love with Ian (Matter), a local man who helped her as she searched for her father, James Whitcomb, a famous theater actor she believed had a connection to the town. At his widow Margaret's (Malick) request, Miranda agrees to keep it a secret to protect the family from scandal. This Christmas, she fears the warm welcome she received from the Whitcomb family will soon turn cold when Miranda receives an anonymous text from someone who threatens to expose her identity.
Well what was great about the original film was a mystery of Miranda's father. there was also Miranda falling in love. In this sequel we only have a very thin plot and it just retreads what was done before. I still admire the cast. It is just needed a little more story to cover.
BEWARE OF BOGUS REVIEWS. SOME REVIEWERS HAVE ONLY ONE REVIEW. WHEN ITS A POSITIVE REVIEW THAT TELLS ME THEY WERE INVOLVED WITH THE PRODUCTION. NOW I HAVE NO AGENDA! I AM HONEST! I REVIEW Christmas MOVIES AS A WAY TO KEEP TRACK OF WHAT I HAVE SEEN!
In this follow up film to "Finding Father Christmas" It's Christmas time and Miranda (Krakow) leaves Seattle with a suitcase full of presents to join her long- lost family in Carlton Heath. Hoping She will experience the joyful traditions she missed as a child. Last Christmas, Miranda fell in love with Ian (Matter), a local man who helped her as she searched for her father, James Whitcomb, a famous theater actor she believed had a connection to the town. At his widow Margaret's (Malick) request, Miranda agrees to keep it a secret to protect the family from scandal. This Christmas, she fears the warm welcome she received from the Whitcomb family will soon turn cold when Miranda receives an anonymous text from someone who threatens to expose her identity.
Well what was great about the original film was a mystery of Miranda's father. there was also Miranda falling in love. In this sequel we only have a very thin plot and it just retreads what was done before. I still admire the cast. It is just needed a little more story to cover.
Hallmark does it again
texasfolk12 November 2017
Warning: Spoilers
What a great story. Great cast. Great casting. Great acting. I'm usually disappointed with sequels. This was as good as the original. Great writing. Watch both together to see how well the first movie blends into the last movie. Thank you Penny for getting this started. You will ALWAYS enjoy a Perry/Lind casted movie. The director hit all the mushy parts perfect and how Erin managed to get the veins in her head to pop out with such emotion is a sign of a great actress.
I certainly DO NOT work in production and have never been on a movie set- although my son is an actor. I stay out of his business AND he has never worked for Hallmark. Wish he would. I simply enjoy it when Penny Perry casts ANY movie. I am never disappointed with the results. My God look at her success! Ya want a review - here it is. You want a synopsis - try elsewhere. I know how hard it is to write and develop depth in characters. Here the writers did just that and Perry/Lind matched the actors to characters. Is that so hard to comprehend? They SHOULD be praised.
I certainly DO NOT work in production and have never been on a movie set- although my son is an actor. I stay out of his business AND he has never worked for Hallmark. Wish he would. I simply enjoy it when Penny Perry casts ANY movie. I am never disappointed with the results. My God look at her success! Ya want a review - here it is. You want a synopsis - try elsewhere. I know how hard it is to write and develop depth in characters. Here the writers did just that and Perry/Lind matched the actors to characters. Is that so hard to comprehend? They SHOULD be praised.
Pfffftttt!!
lkjen7 December 2019
Warning: Spoilers
What a ridiculous storyline. As if the wife of a man who cheated on her would welcome the child of his affair into her family with open arms. Give me a break. Only on Hallmark. The only redeeming quality is Erin Krakow who is a wonderful natural actress.
Ignore the bogus, reviewer on here
Marynewcomb201313 October 2018
This movie, & series is probably the best out there for Christmas!! I am excited to see the third installment when it comes out in a few weeks!! This series has it all, comedy, some wondering & most of all heart!! Heart is what movies have been lacking from Hollywood really, & originality!! I'm not going to ruin anything for anyone who hasn't seen theses movie but I will say this, I cry every time I see these first two movies. I actually own this & the first on dvd. I am one that really doesn't listen to reviews because a lot of people get PAID to give reviews, (if you understand my meaning). So when someone says after they try to bash others reviews that they are not bias or anything like that, you ignore them!! Those are bias because they are paid to post reviews on places like this & rooten tomatoes!! I do give honest reviews & a lot of mine have been negative!! Just see these movies & decide for yourself!!
Awesome
jezzell-5359714 July 2018
Hallmark movie, long lost daughter reconciles with her family.
TxMike9 December 2018
Our public library added this movie on DVD and my wife and I watched it at home, just under 85 minutes with no commercials!
Erin Krakow is a cutie and a capable actress, she plays Miranda Chester in this second in a series of movies telling her story. She lives and works in Seattle but is traveling back again to Vermont for Christmas. She had found out her real father was a now deceased famous actor and she was welcomed by his primary family, wife and grown children, but cautioned not to tell anyone else about her real father. They thought it would bring shame and tarnish his memory.
However a reporter finds out, confronts her, and announces his intention to write a story. She can either help or not. But working together the extended family figure out a way to handle it all in a productive manner, in the spirit of "family" for the Holidays.
The other story involves Miranda's boyfriend she had met the previous Christmas, he is a local and they both seemed right for each other. So the "Engaging" in the title of the movie is a reference to their intent to eventually get married.
It is a bit too sweet at certain moments, as Hallmark movie tend to be but overall it is good, clean entertainment for the holidays. We enjoyed it.
Erin Krakow is a cutie and a capable actress, she plays Miranda Chester in this second in a series of movies telling her story. She lives and works in Seattle but is traveling back again to Vermont for Christmas. She had found out her real father was a now deceased famous actor and she was welcomed by his primary family, wife and grown children, but cautioned not to tell anyone else about her real father. They thought it would bring shame and tarnish his memory.
However a reporter finds out, confronts her, and announces his intention to write a story. She can either help or not. But working together the extended family figure out a way to handle it all in a productive manner, in the spirit of "family" for the Holidays.
The other story involves Miranda's boyfriend she had met the previous Christmas, he is a local and they both seemed right for each other. So the "Engaging" in the title of the movie is a reference to their intent to eventually get married.
It is a bit too sweet at certain moments, as Hallmark movie tend to be but overall it is good, clean entertainment for the holidays. We enjoyed it.
Decent sequel...but...
barnsleylad494922 December 2020
How in Holy Hades does Nevis Unipan get any acting jobs. She is just terrible. She talks like she has a mouthful of marbles. The girl who played Julia in the first movie was great. No idea why she was replaced. If you're reading this Nevis or her parents, do yourself a favor and get acting lessons. Oh, and a good dentist.
Top Shelf
zyxnix5 December 2017
Christmas movies pretty much don't get better than this. Krakow is nailing down this genre with a sledgehammer. She got a sweet face, good body and flawless acting skills. This does not adhere to most of the standard plots. It is part of an actual Christmas Movie trilogy which by all rights means it really has nothing to do with Christmas other than a setting. But, who cares, it works.
Not a good sequel
Jackbv12313 November 2017
Warning: Spoilers
My first complaint is the first thing we see after the flashbacks. "One Year Later." Come on now, are you guys in love or not? The way they left it in Finding Father Christmas, it does not make sense that they would be apart for the better part of that year. That goes double.
I didn't buy that she would spill the secret, at least not the name. And not once did anyone say to the reporter "You may have thought you heard that, but do you have any evidence?"
Erin Krakow may have one of the best "in-love" faces in Hallmark. And she and Niall Matter certainly played that well. Lucky guy got a lot of kisses and hugs. Krakow is also always great with kids. I had a hard time feeling the soft side of Wendie Malick. Even when she was being loving, it still sounded stiff. Peter, played by Jim Thorburn, was back and forth like a tennis match either welcoming or condemning Miranda, but that's the fault of the story.
The story wasn't deep enough. It tried to mingle huggy, feely romance with tense foreboding and the result to me was just blah.
I should have seen the climax coming, but it was still good.
I didn't buy that she would spill the secret, at least not the name. And not once did anyone say to the reporter "You may have thought you heard that, but do you have any evidence?"
Erin Krakow may have one of the best "in-love" faces in Hallmark. And she and Niall Matter certainly played that well. Lucky guy got a lot of kisses and hugs. Krakow is also always great with kids. I had a hard time feeling the soft side of Wendie Malick. Even when she was being loving, it still sounded stiff. Peter, played by Jim Thorburn, was back and forth like a tennis match either welcoming or condemning Miranda, but that's the fault of the story.
The story wasn't deep enough. It tried to mingle huggy, feely romance with tense foreboding and the result to me was just blah.
I should have seen the climax coming, but it was still good.
A worthy sequel, indeed.
Carycomic13 November 2017
Warning: Spoilers
When I first saw "Finding Father Christmas," I was immediately hooked. It differed from other Hallmark Xmas movies in that there was a bit of a mystery to it. As in; who was Miranda Chester's biological father? Well, of course, that question was ultimately answered not only to my satisfaction. But, also to millions of other viewers!
Here it is, a year later, and Miranda is now heading back to Carlton Heath with a lot more Xmas spirit than when she first arrived there. Especially after love-struck Ian pops The Question in the most melodramatic fashion in Carlton Heath's history!!
But, all that hard-won joy is almost canceled out by the caller-ID- blocked cellphone calls that Miranda starts to get harassed with...concerning the truth of her paternal heritage.
Who is the self-styled Ghost of Xmas Past? Is it her old flame, Josh, whom she met at Boston's Logan International Airport (and to whom she revealed that secret in strictest confidence)? Or has one of the Whitcombs been paranoid enough to hire some private eye to keep an eye on Miranda (only to now be double-crossed)?
I watched the premiere, last night, so--naturally--I already know the answers. The rest of you will just have to tune in one of the re- runs to find out for yourselves!
OK! I'll be serious, now. This sequel does admittedly spend half its time recapping-in-summary the plot of the first movie. But, that's a necessary evil of _any_ sequel! And, I will also admit that Peter and Margaret's reticence, about James being Miranda's father (at least, while in public with unknowing third parties), does become a little annoying after a while. Making me think, once or twice:
"Why are they acting like selfish snobs? How much more does she have to do to prove herself to them?"
But, in the end, love and good sense prevailed. As it should in _any_ Hallmark Xmas movie.
Here it is, a year later, and Miranda is now heading back to Carlton Heath with a lot more Xmas spirit than when she first arrived there. Especially after love-struck Ian pops The Question in the most melodramatic fashion in Carlton Heath's history!!
But, all that hard-won joy is almost canceled out by the caller-ID- blocked cellphone calls that Miranda starts to get harassed with...concerning the truth of her paternal heritage.
Who is the self-styled Ghost of Xmas Past? Is it her old flame, Josh, whom she met at Boston's Logan International Airport (and to whom she revealed that secret in strictest confidence)? Or has one of the Whitcombs been paranoid enough to hire some private eye to keep an eye on Miranda (only to now be double-crossed)?
I watched the premiere, last night, so--naturally--I already know the answers. The rest of you will just have to tune in one of the re- runs to find out for yourselves!
OK! I'll be serious, now. This sequel does admittedly spend half its time recapping-in-summary the plot of the first movie. But, that's a necessary evil of _any_ sequel! And, I will also admit that Peter and Margaret's reticence, about James being Miranda's father (at least, while in public with unknowing third parties), does become a little annoying after a while. Making me think, once or twice:
"Why are they acting like selfish snobs? How much more does she have to do to prove herself to them?"
But, in the end, love and good sense prevailed. As it should in _any_ Hallmark Xmas movie.
FAN of Father Christmas!
Jazzie-too18 December 2017
Yes, the titles are a twist, but adds to the intrigue! I love both of these Hallmark movies. I missed seeing "Finding Father Christmas", last season, as my dau and grand-dau were visiting from Rio. But WHAT A DOUBLE TREAT this season!! I loved both! And especially Niall Matter as Ian! Yes the story is a bit bizarre, but the acting was superb for me! I liked the array of a strong cast. I hope to see them again next season, having seen them each twice already this year! All Hallmark movies are predictable, but this had a few curves to navigate. They just gave me so much enjoyment and lifted me into the holiday season. Going to get to baking today!! Hope the authors, Gunn & Golden are busy writing next years part 3!
sequel to Finding Father Christmas.
ronbokirk15 November 2017
I looked forward to this movie with great anticipation, but it was a complete disappointment for a Hallmark movie. The only redeeming quality it had was Erin Krakow. The plot was awful, the romance had no spark, the good feeling you are left with after a Hallmark Christmas movie was missing.
A very good sequel, with a new twist of mystery
SimonJack25 October 2022
Warning: Spoilers
This was the logical and obvious film to follow the superb 2016 TV movie by Hallmark, "Finding Father Christmas." The actors and characters are all the same in "Engaging Father Christmas", with some additions. The main three are crystal Balint as reporter Natalie Garrett, Ben Wilkinson as unscrupulous writer Steve Decker, and Andrew Francis as Miranda's former boyfriend, Josh.
Miranda and Ian, while deeply falling in love a year ago, have stayed where they were - in residence and work, but have been corresponding and apparently visiting one another or getting together at some halfway city between her Seattle and his Vermont. But now, the time is right for Ian to propose. So, Miranda is back at scenic Carlton Heath, Vermont. Only this time, she doesn't stay at the inn owned by Ian's parents, the McAndricks. As a family member - the half sister of Peter Whitcomb, she is staying with him and his wife Eliie, and their two children now call her Aunt Miranda. She and Margaret, the widow of James Whitcomb, her father, are on very good terms.
The plot for this story comes about with complications for a mistake Miranda makes. She had promised Margaret and her family that she would not tell anyone that James Whitcomb had been her father. But when she bumps into former boyfriend Josh in the Boston airport, she blabs it to him. Of course she gets a promise from him that he won't say a word to anyone. And while Miranda trusts Josh, the mistake has two consequences.
The first is that she doesn't tell him enough, because he then drives all the way up to Carlton Health, Vermont, to see her and tells her to remember that his brother is an attorney and can help her with her inheritance. So, he assumed that she was an heir - again, the danger of her blabbing. But the bigger mistake was blabbing it in a crowded airport terminal where she could be - and was, overheard. And, Decker is the cad who then starts sending her strange emails, so that she wonders who else could know her story.
Of course, without all of that, this particular plot wouldn't have been; and in the end it's one of those things that turns out very well. It wasn't very hard for me to guess where it was going after Decker gives her an ultimatum to give him the story, or the whole world will find out about it anyway. So, it was a very good outcome and fine sequel. As with most sequels, this film isn't quite as good as the original story; but this is one sequel that comes close and provides a good story. As with the original, the performances by the cast are superb and make it the fine story and film it is.
A favorite line from the film is when Ian arrives at the Boston airport to pick up Miranda. He sees her kissing Josh goodbye, and later says to her, "So that's how it is. I'm a half hour late and you start kissing strangers in the airport."
One little caveat for viewers. It isn't an oversight or goof in the script when Miranda asks her assistant, Annie, to see about pushing back a meeting a couple of hours. She says, "The folks from Portland are in town, and I'm taking them out to lunch." Miranda is an orphan, so she isn't talking about her folks (she would have said "my folks" or "parents"); and since she never knew who her father was, but was raised by her single mom, she wouldn't have any other "folks" as parents. "Folks" is a term that is used when speaking about people in general. It's the first definition in the Miriam-Webster dictionary for its use. So, Miranda was clearly talking about clients or business associates she was going to meet who were coming to Seattle from Portland, Oregon.
Miranda and Ian, while deeply falling in love a year ago, have stayed where they were - in residence and work, but have been corresponding and apparently visiting one another or getting together at some halfway city between her Seattle and his Vermont. But now, the time is right for Ian to propose. So, Miranda is back at scenic Carlton Heath, Vermont. Only this time, she doesn't stay at the inn owned by Ian's parents, the McAndricks. As a family member - the half sister of Peter Whitcomb, she is staying with him and his wife Eliie, and their two children now call her Aunt Miranda. She and Margaret, the widow of James Whitcomb, her father, are on very good terms.
The plot for this story comes about with complications for a mistake Miranda makes. She had promised Margaret and her family that she would not tell anyone that James Whitcomb had been her father. But when she bumps into former boyfriend Josh in the Boston airport, she blabs it to him. Of course she gets a promise from him that he won't say a word to anyone. And while Miranda trusts Josh, the mistake has two consequences.
The first is that she doesn't tell him enough, because he then drives all the way up to Carlton Health, Vermont, to see her and tells her to remember that his brother is an attorney and can help her with her inheritance. So, he assumed that she was an heir - again, the danger of her blabbing. But the bigger mistake was blabbing it in a crowded airport terminal where she could be - and was, overheard. And, Decker is the cad who then starts sending her strange emails, so that she wonders who else could know her story.
Of course, without all of that, this particular plot wouldn't have been; and in the end it's one of those things that turns out very well. It wasn't very hard for me to guess where it was going after Decker gives her an ultimatum to give him the story, or the whole world will find out about it anyway. So, it was a very good outcome and fine sequel. As with most sequels, this film isn't quite as good as the original story; but this is one sequel that comes close and provides a good story. As with the original, the performances by the cast are superb and make it the fine story and film it is.
A favorite line from the film is when Ian arrives at the Boston airport to pick up Miranda. He sees her kissing Josh goodbye, and later says to her, "So that's how it is. I'm a half hour late and you start kissing strangers in the airport."
One little caveat for viewers. It isn't an oversight or goof in the script when Miranda asks her assistant, Annie, to see about pushing back a meeting a couple of hours. She says, "The folks from Portland are in town, and I'm taking them out to lunch." Miranda is an orphan, so she isn't talking about her folks (she would have said "my folks" or "parents"); and since she never knew who her father was, but was raised by her single mom, she wouldn't have any other "folks" as parents. "Folks" is a term that is used when speaking about people in general. It's the first definition in the Miriam-Webster dictionary for its use. So, Miranda was clearly talking about clients or business associates she was going to meet who were coming to Seattle from Portland, Oregon.
Do not tell about father
Prismark1030 November 2017
Warning: Spoilers
Miranda Chester (Erin Krakow) arrives to the small town of Carlton Heath to be with her newly discovered family. Although her long lost late father's family welcome her, his wife Margaret (Wendie Malick) requests Miranda keep the secret of her famous actor dad secret in order not to sully his reputation.
However Miranda gets an anonymous text message that threatens to expose her secret.
The moral of the story is do not blurt out to an old friend you have not seen for years your newly discovered secret. A journalist might be sitting behind you.
There is very little chemistry between the romantic leads, only the snivelling journalist shows some character. Apart from that the acting is bland.
However Miranda gets an anonymous text message that threatens to expose her secret.
The moral of the story is do not blurt out to an old friend you have not seen for years your newly discovered secret. A journalist might be sitting behind you.
There is very little chemistry between the romantic leads, only the snivelling journalist shows some character. Apart from that the acting is bland.
Always worth watching
Christmasmoviewatcher21 October 2023
First of a really nice trio (I think) of films with these characters in a small town all relating to and involved with the storyline. The two main characters are a delight, not over sugary and they seem to work really well together. Its a very typical Hallmark Christmas film, but nicely done and always worth another watch and has a very pleasant storyline throughout. And frankly, I'd love to live in such a small American town where it snows on an annual basis, and not rain most of the winter where everyone goes over the top with decorations and local events. I grew up in small town UK and had that kind of childhood and quite frankly miss it in many ways. Settle down with a cuppa and a biscuit and enjoy.
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