Christmas List

Christmas List stands as an epitome of the holiday-themed romantic-comedies that have become a hallmark (no pun intended) of the festive season. Premiering in 2016, this light-hearted, feel-good movie tells the tale of a meticulously organized woman named Isobel who transcends her normally orderly life in an attempt to partake in the joys and wonder of the Yuletide season.

The movie casts Alicia Witt in the lead role as Isobel, a precision planner who dedicates the majority of her time crafting exceptional and flawless holiday tours for arguably the biggest and busiest holiday firm in town. Despite her vast knowledge and understanding of Christmastime logistics, Isobel struggles with truly immersing herself in the spontaneous magic and spirit of the season. As an individual whose pictorial life is neatly noted in her ‘perfect Christmas’ notebook, Isobel paradoxically remains diffident to derive pleasure from the carefree and unscripted adventures of Christmas.

The course of the movie undergoes a jovial twist when Isobel is coerced into a much-deserved vacation at the opulent Snow Valley ski lodge. Here, she meets the good-looking resort manager, Jamie, played by Gabriel Hogan, who is domineered by his playful and energetic younger brother. Contrary to Isobel's exemplary professional life, Jamie embarks on a heartfelt mission to assist Isobel in checking off the items from her long-standing ‘perfect Christmas’ list, a list that Isobel had created when she was a child. The list includes many fantastical elements like building a snowman, engaging in a snowball fight, and even sledding down a hill. It's through this process that Isobel finally embarks on her journey of self-discovery and heads towards a more liberating way of life.

Hogan impeccably portrays Jamie, a man with just the right mix of charisma and kindness, who celebrates life as it comes, without being fuss over detailed planning. His character contrasts with Isobel's on-paper approach to life and helps her finally embrace the charming chaos of the holiday season.

Director Paul A. Kaufman brilliantly captures the enchanting winter landscapes delicately in contrast with Witt's high-energy character. It is within these carefully designed frames that Isobel becomes aware of the actual essence of Christmas: love, happiness, and the beauty of impromptu moments. As Isobel gradually warms up to Jamie and his persuasive endeavors at making her Christmas 'perfect,' the audience also becomes a part of her journey.

Peter Benson, as the antagonistic resort developer Stuart, adds another layer to the plot. His masterly portrayal of a development-driven villain brings the necessary conflict to the movie, which then deftly resolves in the spirit of Christmas, reiterating the victory of love and goodwill over commerce-driven decisions.

Christmas List is not just a romantic tale that spreads cheer and warmth. Embedded in the heart of this movie is a lesson that encourages us to let loose, take spontaneous decisions, and relish life as it unfolds. It helps us understand that perfection doesn't always reside in well-drafted plans and well-thought decisions, but often in moments of careless laughter, small surprises, and sheer joy of living.

As the film progresses, the viewers gradually adopt Isobel's transforming perspective towards Christmas. They feel her anticipation as she prepares for her perfect Christmas, her hesitation as she steps out of her comfort zone, her exhilaration as she starts checking off items from her list, and her realization about love and Christmas spirit being much more significant than she ever fathomed.

Laced with sugary sweetness, Christmas List is an invitation to let ourselves experience the beauty and joy in imperfections, spontaneity, and intuitive moments. It reminds us that the Christmas spirit is predominantly about loving, giving, and receiving joy. While Witt and Hogan altogether steal the show, their idyllic surroundings, and the touching narrative, make Christmas List a cozy holiday film that leaves the viewers with a heart full of warmth and an irresistible craving for cocoa. The film celebrates the magic and merry making of Christmas, leaving viewers with a heightened sense of appreciation for holiday season spontaneity and the joy of ticking off those fantasy-filled items from the 'perfect Christmas' list.