Eloise at Christmastime

Eloise at Christmastime is a whimsical and heartwarming 2003 family movie that takes you on a delightful journey through the holiday season at The Plaza hotel in New York City. The movie is an adaptation of the lighthearted, fun, and beloved children's book written by Kay Thompson and illustrated by Hilary Knight.

The movie focuses on the lively and often mischievous six-year-old, Eloise who is played by Sofia Vassilieva. Eloise is quite a character, brimming with charm and insatiable curiosity. She lives at the "tippy-top" of the Plaza hotel with her English Nanny, played by the talented Julie Andrews, who attempts to teach Eloise proper manners while keeping up with the bundle of energy. Despite her comfortable and privileged upbringing, Eloise was an unconventional little girl who had a knack for making every situation lively and interesting with her adventurous spirit and contagious enthusiasm.

Having the Plaza hotel as home and playground provides Eloise with her fair share of adventures, but Christmas-time brings along a whole new level of excitement and hi-jinks. This adorable movie takes the audience through New York City during the most enchanting time of the year, with the Plaza hotel brilliantly decked up as it prepares to host exquisite parties and galas attended by the city's elite.

Joined by the hotel's doorman played by Kenneth Welsh, a friendly waiter played by Rick Roberts, and the ever exasperated hotel manager played by Debra Monk, Eloise navigates the enchanting New York Christmas setting with a daring spirit and innocent charm. Eloise is not somebody who merely exists in this posh setting but is an active little girl who participates enthusiastically in the lives of the adults around her, without losing her childlike innocence or wonder.

Within this enchanting world and under the bright city lights, Eloise reminds the adults in her life, and the audience, what Christmas is truly about. Throughout the movie, we see Eloise helping to solve conflicts, stirring up capers, and making the holiday season magical and full of surprises with her spirited antics and genuine good-hearted nature. At the same time, the movie manages to weave in several subplots, giving a variety of characters a platform to shine, weaving a delightful narrative balance between Eloise and the various subplots.

Julie Andrew's portrayal as Nanny forms the backbone of the movie. She beautifully encapsulates the character's warmth, wisdom, and patience which complements the whirlwind of energy that Eloise is. Sofia Vassilieva, with her dynamism and charm, wonderfully brings the character of Eloise to life on the big screen, connecting with the audience instantly and ensuring they are charmed by her bubbling enthusiasm and pranks.

Eloise at Christmastime is directed by Kevin Lima, renowned for his work on children’s movies, imbuing the film with a sense of childlike wonder and fun, capturing the essence of the holiday season perfectly. The colorful cinematography, set design, and charming costumes perfectly capture the luxurious ambiance of The Plaza hotel, the vibrant energy of Eloise, and the charismatic spirit of New York City during Christmas.

Whilst primarily aimed at children, the movie is a delight for all ages, projecting the adventure, laughter, and warm emotion often associated with the holiday season. This film teems with seasonal spirit and is a reminder of the joyous power of childhood innocence and the significance of kindness and good cheer.

Whether you're a fan of Kay Thompson's Eloise series or just looking for a feel-good Christmas movie, Eloise at Christmastime will surely not disappoint. With its adorable protagonist, star-studded cast, and undeniable holiday charm, it is a movie that will make you revel in the magic of the holiday season. All in all, Eloise at Christmastime is a holiday classic that is likely to keep audiences returning to the 'tippy-top' floor of the Plaza Hotel year after year.