12 Men of Christmas

12 Men of Christmas is a romantic comedy film that aired on December 5, 2009, on the Lifetime Television network. Directed by Arlene Sanford and based on the novel "Decent Exposure" by Phillipa Ashley, the film is a heartwarming holiday story with a twist of humor and romance. The movie stars Kristin Chenoweth, an Emmy and Tony Award-winning actress, as the lead character, E.J. Baxter. Accompanying Chenoweth is Josh Hopkins, known for his work on the television series "Cougar Town", and Anna Chlumsky from "My Girl" fame, among other talented supporting cast members.

Set amidst the festive season, 12 Men of Christmas follows the journey of E.J. Baxter, a high-powered public relations executive who endures a rough patch in her life. E.J is an ambitious and savvy New Yorker, with her career on a continuous upswing and no-nonsense attitude that has served her well in the cutthroat world of PR. Everything she has worked for takes an unexpected detour when she experiences a public career and personal life debacle simultaneously, right before the holidays.

Following these events, E.J. decides it's time for a fresh start and accepts a job in Kalispell, Montana, far removed from the urban bustle of New York City. The change is as dramatic as it is picturesque—the movie showcasing the contrasting beauty of Montana's rugged landscape. E.J. is now confronted with a lifestyle upheaval, as she not only has to adapt to a slower pace of life but also faces the challenge of carving out a new career path in an environment that is worlds away from what she knows.

In her new role in Kalispell, E.J. begins working for the town's search and rescue team. Her primary mission is to raise funds for this volunteer organization, which for years has been underfunded and under-recognized, despite the life-saving work the team performs. While trying to come up with an innovative fundraising idea that could potentially salvage both her career and the search and rescue team, E.J. devises a daring and unconventional plan.

E.J.'s brainwave is to produce a charity calendar that will feature the local men of Kalispell. She envisions the "12 Men of Christmas" calendar that will showcase the rugged charm and handsomeness of the town's most eligible bachelors, including the search and rescue volunteers, for each month of the year. However, her plan to photograph these men in tastefully alluring poses is met with a mix of amusement and resistance, adding comedic elements as the men work through their initial shyness and skepticism.

Among the men to be featured in the calendar is Will Albrecht, portrayed by Josh Hopkins, a local search and rescue volunteer who initially clashes with E.J. Their dynamic provides much of the film's romantic tension and comedic relief. The film teases the evolving relationship between E.J. and Will, as they navigate their differences and slowly come to find common ground amidst the quirks of small-town life and the pressures of pulling off the fundraising event.

Anna Chlumsky's character plays a part in E.J.'s life as well, as one of the individuals who become involved in her new chapter in Montana. As E.J. continues to work through the planning and production of the calendar, she encounters a host of characters that enrich the narrative with their own backstories and connection to the community. The ensemble cast contributes to the movie's underlying message about the importance of community, teamwork, and the unexpected friendships that can emerge in times of change.

Delivering a blend of warmth and wit, 12 Men of Christmas is a story about starting over, the power of innovative ideas, and the unpredictable nature of love. It highlights the themes of resilience in the face of setback, re-evaluating what truly matters in life, and the ways in which a fresh perspective can lead to new and fulfilling opportunities.

12 Men of Christmas has become a holiday season treat for viewers looking for a delightful mix of romance, humor, and the spirit of giving. It captures the essence of the festive season while providing an engaging storyline that entices viewers with the promise of new beginnings and second chances. The enchanting snowy backdrop, combined with the colorful cast of characters, makes for a feel-good seasonal film that resonates with audiences searching for holiday cheer and lighthearted entertainment.