Review of Annie Claus Is Coming to Town

Annie Claus (Maria Thayer) is Santas's daughter and she lives with her parents at the North Pole. Now a beautiful young woman, she loves the Christmas organization but wonders whether a life below the Arctic might be nice, too. Therefore, her parents suggest that she whirl a globe, pick a city, and make new friends for a short time. Then, she must decide what her future holds. As luck would have it, Annie's finger lands on Los Angeles and that venue does sound exciting. Pretty soon, Annie is renting a room at the Candy Cane Inn, run by beautiful lady Lucy (Vivica A. Fox) and her daughter, Mia. Lucy and Annie take to each other straight away, although Lucy makes it clear she's not interested in romance anymore. However, Annie IS. Very quickly, she meets a good looking businessman named Dean (Ryan Bittle). He seems perfect, for he is handsome, successful, and works with orphans in his spare time. What Annie doesn't know is that he is a phony, a two-bit actor hired by a traitor elf to keep Annie in the States, should a wedding be the result. Being as sunny-natured as they come, Annie can't see through his outward appearance. Yet, Annie meets another gentleman who is the genuine article, albeit down on his luck. Toy store owner Ted (Sam Page) has to drum up more business or shut down. As Annie stumbles into his place, she immediately makes friends with Ted and volunteers her time and expert toy knowledge to help him stay afloat. Ted is grateful and smitten with Annie, too. But, Annie can't see anyone but scoundrel Dean. In brief, will Ted's store be saved and who will win Annie's heart of hearts? This lovely Christmas film is vastly enjoyable. Thayer's Annie is certainly one of the most optimistic cheer-distributors ever, as her darling red-haired looks and sweet nature are charming. Just watching her makes any person want to change into someone better in the future. Page and Bittle are perfect contrasts for each other while Fox and the rest of the cast do a fine job. Even though there isn't snow, the setting is attractive and vibrant while the costumes, hairstyles, photography, script and direction are mighty nice. Yes, there is a bit of incredulity, especially where Ted's shop is concerned, for its "junky" nature at the beginning would have doomed him long before Christmas. Even so, families searching for a Christmas film that fills the holiday's true meaning should find a way to bring this one to their house, in their town, anywhere, anytime.