Fir Crazy

Fir Crazy is a festive romantic comedy that aired in 2013, directed by Craig Pryce, and starring the charming Sarah Lancaster, the handsome Eric Johnson, and the versatile Colin Mochrie. Set against the backdrop of New York City’s holiday season, this heart-warming Hallmark film is a story of rediscovery, love, and the magic of Christmas.

The story centers around Elise MacReynolds (played by Sarah Lancaster), a marketing executive who is incredibly devoted to her career. She’s a modern woman of the city, immersed in her work and detached from her family's traditional holiday business – selling Christmas trees. Elise, with her sophisticated NYC corporate life, couldn't be more indifferent to the charm of the family-owned tree lot, let alone the enchantment of the festive season.

However, in a twist of fate, Elise finds herself jobless just as the holiday season rolls around. With diminishing options, she reluctantly returns to her family’s Christmas tree lot to lend a hand, and in the process, she’s sent on an unexpected journey of self-discovery. As she reintegrates herself into the operation of the Christmas lot, she begins to see the tree lot and the holiday season in a completely new light.

Taking centre stage in the film along with Elise is Darren Foster, played by Eric Johnson, a long-time patron of the family's tree lot. Darren, a school teacher and single father, becomes a positive influence in Elise's new path. He is the epitome of Christmas spirit, and his effervescent joy for the season is infectious. He demonstrates to Elise that there is more to Christmas than just the commercialized hustle and bustle, gently guiding her to acknowledge and appreciate the true spirit of the holiday.

Colin Mochrie, known for his comedic style, plays the role of Reginald, adding a delightful and humorous element to the movie. Reginald, a seasoned employee at the tree lot, supports Elise in her journey, providing wisdom and comic relief in equal measure.

The film beautifully showcases New York City during the holiday season, with its radiant cityscape glittering in Christmas lights, skyscrapers shoulder-to-shoulder with beautifully adorned Christmas trees, and city-dwellers brimming with Yuletide joy. The production is striking, making the most of the enchanting holiday scenery and adding a layer of charm and aesthetic appeal to the film.

The magic of the film, however, is not just in its ability to paint a festive canvas, but in its heartening exploration of the story's characters. Despite her initial reluctance, as Elise immerses herself in the tree lot operations, she rediscovers the magic of Christmas, develops a new appreciation for her family's traditions, and grows closer to her parents.

Beyond the rediscovery of the holiday spirit, Fir Crazy also subtly highlights the power of love, family, and tradition in shaping one's life. It's a story of transformation, where characters navigate through life's challenges and emerge stronger and more appreciative of what they have.

Through Elise and Darren, viewers get to see an authentic, delicate, and endearing romance developing. Their evolving relationship heightens the charm of the movie, and it's hard not to root for them as they navigate their feelings for each other.

Fir Crazy is ultimately a feel-good movie that is likely to find its way into your annual holiday film rotation. With its breath-taking scenes, lovable characters, and the underlying message of love, happiness, and the joy of the season, the film serves as a perfect reminder of what the holiday season truly stands for. It is a boon for fans of holiday-themed romantic comedies, or for anyone in need of a burst of Christmas cheer.

So, get ready to snuggle up with a mug of hot cocoa as you delve into the charm of Fir Crazy – a heartfelt and festive journey through rediscovery and love, right in the heart of New York City's holiday season.