Christmas at the Plaza

Christmas at the Plaza, directed by Ron Oliver, is a magical, heartwarming romantic comedy set during the holiday season. The film was released in 2019 and features an outstanding lineup of talented actors including Elizabeth Henstridge, Ryan Paevey, and Bruce Davison. It uses the enchanting backdrop of New York City during Christmastime, providing viewers with the perfect blend of romance, holiday spirit, and a twinkling city landscape.

Elizabeth Henstridge, known for her work in Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., gives a charming performance as Jessica Cooper, an archival historian with an earnest passion for her work. Jessica is tasked with the creation of an exhibit centered around the history of Christmas at New York City's Plaza Hotel, a prestigious task that comes with its fair share of challenges. The strikingly beautiful hotel serves as a character in its own right, steeped in luxurious ambiance and overflowing with Christmas cheer in every scene.

In her pursuit of the hotel's past, Jessica crosses paths with Nick Perrelli, portrayed by Ryan Paevey of General Hospital fame. Ryan stars as a handsome, charming decorator hired to prepare the hotel for the festive season. His role mirrors his playful charm, alongside his dedication and eye for design.

As the narrative unravels, Jessica and Nick find themselves undeniably drawn together. They embark on a journey to uncover the hotel's history, and in doing so, weave their own personal histories together, creating a sparkling Christmas love story. Despite their differences - Jessica's passion for history contrasting with Nick's dedication to creating new memories - they quickly form a team and begin searching the hotel's extensive records.

Bruce Davison, renowned for his roles in X-Men and Kingdom, shines as Reginald Brookwater, a veteran Plaza employee. His character adds a wonderful layer of depth and history to the film, further fueling the sense of nostalgia and intrigue that permeates throughout their exploration of the Plaza's past.

Throughout the film, you'll be treated to a host of delightful secondary characters. From fluttery assistants to no-nonsense executives, each one adds a touch of flavor to this enchanting Christmas tale. The real magic, however, lies in the portrayal of New York City during the festive period. The sumptuous sets, the glittering decorations, the snow-covered streets – all serve to create a dazzling, dreamy backdrop against which this love story unfolds.

Christmas at the Plaza does more than just deliver a Christmas themed romantic narrative – it offers an introspective look into the meaningful traditions and deep historical roots of this beloved holiday in one of the most iconic hotels in the world. The film wonderfully captures the essence of Christmas, not just in terms of its commercialized elements, but diving into the sentimental aspects of the holiday—a time of love, joy, giving, and celebration of past, present, and future.

The mystery element is delicately crafted, ensuring it does not overshadow the romantic storyline while still keeping the viewers intrigued. As Jessica and Nick delve deeper into the mystery of past Christmas celebrations at the Plaza, viewers are taken on an enchanting journey through time, full of intrigue and secrets.

The chemistry between Henstridge and Paevey is electric, lending a sense of authenticity to their developing romance. Their banter and camaraderie are delightful to watch, breathing life into their characters and making their story feel real and relatable.

Overall, Christmas at the Plaza is a treat for lovers of romantic holiday tales. It combines the nostalgia of Christmas traditions, the enchantment of New York City during the festive season, and the charm of a budding romance into a heartwarming storyline. It is perfect for those looking to indulge in all the sentiments that come with holiday films - love, joy, holiday cheer, sentimental nostalgia, and a fair share of Christmas magic.