Let’s start with the negatives because there are only two, and thus, quick and easy to get out of the way. In the beginning, Jen buys a scarf (or something similar), then a strong wind sends it zipping down the street. The CGI on this flying fabric is pretty dodgy. The second issue is interrelated: the person who captures the runaway clothing from the air is Rob before the leads meet properly. This never comes back into play, and they don’t recognize each other from just a few hours earlier that same day. This whole bit could be scrapped, and nothing would change one bit.
Beyond that, Lost At Christmas is terrific. For starters, the cast is impressive. Clark, who only has a handful of credits on IMDb, is so charming that even her more annoying traits become endearing. Jen’s continual insistence that no one should be alone on Christmas and that the spirit of the season can help all is overbearing. But, by that same token, her optimism is one of her greatest strengths, and the actor plays it perfectly.
“…far more interested in exploring their three-dimensional characters through a mostly realistic and relatable story.”
Rob’s angst is understandable, and Boyle plays it without a hint of malice. When he yells at Jen after she wouldn’t listen to the several warnings about the weather, he’s not trying to be mean. He is sweet and sincere in the softer moments, such as discussing who will sleep on the bed at the inn. The supporting cast, including an excellent Sylvester McCoy as the elderly Ernie, is also great.
The screenplay for Lost At Christmas is as great as the acting. Yes, some moments require a high suspension of disbelief and are a little too convenient, but they are easily glossed over. Why is that? Because Robb, Jen, and the people staying at the inn are all so well developed. Part of the joy of watching the film is getting introduced to these people and learning about their lives. It’s a rare script indeed that has audiences invested in everyone, no matter how limited their screen time. Yet, Hendrick and Sheppard achieve it with elegance and grace. Even more impressive is how they wrap everything up. Obviously, no spoilers, but the ending is a bit unexpected, makes total sense, and hits the feels harder than one might have thought.
Lost At Christmas sounds like a Hallmark production, and the plot occasionally hits some of those familiar beats. But, the filmmakers are far more interested in exploring their three-dimensional characters through a mostly realistic and relatable story. The cast, especially the two leads, breathe life into their roles, and the ending is beautiful. Hendrick and Sheppard have crafted an almost perfect Christmas romance that will melt even the Grinchiest of hearts.
"…terrific...charming..."
