Reviews

I loved the innocence of the original Hauling: its overall Christmas spirit in lovable, if not hilarious, characters; the would-be Santa enthusiasm of Jared; as well as the melting jaded-heart of Emily.

I still love the characters, but the story was so dark with celebrity nasty voices influencing a "group think" among residents of the wonderfully fanciful Evergreen Lane. The situation in this "episode" was a little too close to reality (it reminded me of office politics and the like) after a joyful happy-go-lucky first installment (i.e., the first film) which was all about helping to bring a beaming smile to the face of a person in need of a Christmas hug (a reality that many I know also need to experience).

I can watch the first movie over and over again. I really wanted to get the same hearty laughs in this sequel, but....

I will watch this "Lit up" sequel another time because, in the end, goodness wins. I'm willing to give it another go because I love the first movie so very much.

I loved the literary references throughout the movie--and the basis of the movie's plot, itself based on an imaginary book known to the characters.

The actors themselves do a wonderful job. The Christmas decorations are as stunning as ever. The holiday activity variations from the usual Americana (and ridiculously made-up "traditions" to avoid real religiously-inspired customs) was surprisingly fun and non-offensive. That said, though I didn't laugh enough, it was very enjoyable.

I was left wondering if Wunderland is like an annual Christmas "Brigadoon."

The "New Hallmark" movies are a little more difficult to find relaxing because the management seems to fear the classic guaranteed romcom levity and brightness (the channel's past distinctiveness from Lifetime and other channels). While character negativity is "real life," it gets in the way of the joy one expects from the romcom genre.

What a surprise to see three of Hallmark's star-studs in this film. Though not the channels hard-hitters, they always bring a smile to my face.

First, the very cute Ben Levine always brightens the screen. His star first shines mid-movie as the story shifts towards love.

The handsome David O'Donnell always commands a wonderful presence in his scenes. When sporting a beard, I often do not recognize him at first, but looking more closely, his eyes give him away.

Love-interest Brant Daugherty offers the warmth that a Christmas romcom needs. He is like the whip-cream atop a cup of hot cocoa.

But I still have questions: is it Santa, the bellhop, or Mrs. Billings (Doris Roberts aka Mrs. Miracle in other xmas movies) who plays any magical role in the blooming relationship?

And who hung the mistletoe in the elevator in the first place?

This is "episode 5" of a loosely related series of RomComs united not by a thread but by an Italian wedding veil.

The familiar cast of favorite TV (and Hallmark) veterans is strong and likable. It is nice to see a G-rated movie with fun and respectful behavior and language throughout. There is an elegance present within the characters and throughout the story itself.

Life's journey has twists and turns. Husband Paolo's dad becomes ill in Italy and calls him to return to be with family. Wife Emma's college teaching job success is on a path toward moving into the administrative higher position of department chairperson.

Love involves sacrifice. We see such love expressed by the couple towards each other, by a child for a parent, by friends (and even co-workers) for one another.

I loved learning that 1. Croissant-like breads are called "cornettos" in Italian.

2. one can prevent wall damage when hanging a painting by "forking a nail."

3. "FOMO" is used beyond texting.

4. new words in Italian, explained throughout the two hours.

5. how a retiring chairperson prepares the protégé for the transition.

6. that there's a baby on the way.

I feel good after watching this flick.

This is a wonderful family-friendly and family-affirmative Romcom which just happens to have two men as the protagonists. Much of the very best traditional Hallmark elements were happily included. Though other channels/streams have already had their "first" gay romcom, this is clearly one of the best for households with children of any age.

From the surprise discovery that the "other guy" is gay to the reality of not growing up with thoughts of marriage or children available to all, these are sad realities faced for decades by many "older" gentleman. (This is just as surprising to those who feel afraid to "come out" or others who think that they've "never met a gay person.")

Heartfelt. Endearing. Sweet. And recommended for all. Merry Christmas!