Five Star Christmas

Five Star Christmas is a delightful and joyous holiday-themed comedy film that arrived to our screens in 2020 from the production powerhouse of Hallmark. This refreshing movie banks on the charming performances of its well-casted actors consisting of Bethany Joy Lenz, Victor Webster, and Robert Wisden.

In the heart of the story lies the Ralston Family, who own and operate a New England bed & breakfast. The family matriarch is Bethany Joy Lenz, who portrays the role of Lisa Ralston excellently with her cheerful and lively performance. Lisa recently moved back home after her plans of becoming a writer in the big city didn't pan out as she had imagined. However, she’s still determined to make a career out of her passion for literature and is open for a fresh start.

Lisa's character is the glue in the family, keeping everyone on track and together. She helps to manage the family's struggling bed and breakfast, stepping into the shoes of any role required to keep the business afloat. Lisa's excellent problem-solving skills and her ability to weather any crisis with a level of calm and grace, make her an endearing character. Bethany Joy Lenz breathes life into this role, making viewers invest emotionally in Lisa's journey.

Enter Victor Webster as Jake Finley. Webster, with his smoldering good looks and charismatic personality behind his character, doesn't fail to make his presence felt. Jake is a famed travel writer and critic who is known for his influential reviews. When the Ralston's get wind that Jake is coming to stay at their bed & breakfast, the stakes are high. This is their chance to secure that five-star review, which could be an absolute game-changer for their business.

But, instead of arriving as himself, Jake decides to visit their bed and breakfast anonymously. And so, an intriguing setup is arranged where the Finley family doesn't know Jake's real identity and goes out of their way to impress each of the guests, just in case one of them turns out to be the influential critic.

Robert Wisden plays the character of Tom Ralston, Lisa's father, with majestic ease. He is a typically kindhearted man who doesn’t shy away from having sturdy opinions, struggling with the business and the pressure of providing for his family.

What follows in Five Star Christmas is a hilarious and heartwarming series of events liberally sprinkled with moments of misunderstanding, slapstick comedy, and holiday spirit. It's a classic tale of family unity, teamwork, and the realization that home is where the heart is, all against the beautiful backdrop of holiday decor, illuminations and snowy landscapes.

However, the real gem of the story is perhaps the burgeoning romance between Lisa and Jake. Their chemistry is palpable and provides a sparkling subplot to the central narrative. Without revealing too much, it's indeed a treat for the viewers longing for a saccharine holiday romance. The script skilfully dances around this romantic tension to keep viewers engaged and rooting for a positive outcome between the pair.

Five Star Christmas doesn't forget to touch your heart with the spirit of Christmas. The essence of family, love, hope, new beginnings are all delightfully threaded into the storyline. Beautifully decorated Christmas trees, the family getting together for holiday baking, festive music, and the general holiday cheer add to the warmth of the settings.

Overall, Five Star Christmas is a movie that stirs up laughter and touches the heart. It's a Hallmark film, so of course, it beautifully encapsulates the spirit of Christmas and love. It's a light-hearted, feel-good movie perfect for a lazy winter evening cuddle on the couch. Balancing comedy, family drama, and festive romance with the right nuance, this movie turns out to be a treat for the holiday season.