Heart of the Holidays

Heart of the Holidays is a heartwarming narrative movie released in 2020. This holiday-oriented classic features talented members in the cast including Vanessa Lengies, Corey Sevier, and Maria Ricossa. The film is approximately 84 minutes long and is rated PG for some brief, suggestive material. Although this film is centered around the holiday season, it weaves a compelling story that is all-inclusive and can be enjoyed by viewers of all ages and backgrounds.

The movie showcases Vanessa Lengies, known for her roles in Stick It (2006) and Hawthorne (2009), as the lead character, Sam. Sam is a successful businesswoman from a small town, thriving in the hustle and bustle of New York City's corporate world. However, the movie takes an interesting turn when Sam has to go back to her small hometown for the holidays, which triggers a series of events and emotions. Her journey back home turns into an enlightening experience that moves far beyond a holiday visit. With each interaction with the familiar settings and townspeople, Sam realizes that she has drifted from her roots.

Among the people she reconnects with is her high school sweetheart, Noah, played effectively by Corey Sevier of Cedar Cove (2013-15) and Immortals (2011) fame. Noah, a community-minded man, appears to be the complete opposite of Sam but possesses a charm and sincerity that unveils a different kind of life perspective. The encounter with Noah makes Sam question her choices and lifestyle, lending an emotional layer to the story.

At the heart of Heart of the Holidays is the exploration of the true meaning of the holiday season and the understanding of home and family. Director Corey Sevier does a fantastic job in capturing the spirit of a small-town Christmas with a detailed approach. This is beautifully complemented by the movie's aesthetic, with picture-perfect snowfall scenes, wonderfully decorated houses, and warm, inviting interiors that scream 'Christmas'. These elements create an ambiance that makes this film a visual treat.

Maria Ricossa, an actress with an array of TV credits including Street Legal (1987-1994), The Best Years (2007-2009) and Degrassi: The Next Generation (2001-2015), features a significant role as Martha. Martha's character is introduced as a delightful figure with a motherly aura, providing guidance and wisdom to Sam throughout the narrative and adding a wholesome feel to the movie.

The script by Julie Sherman Wolfe is another winning aspect of this movie. Wolfe is a veteran when it comes to writing romance and holiday-centric narratives, and her expertise resonates throughout the movie. The storyline walks a fine line between reflecting upon life choices and appreciating one's roots, with the backdrop of the festive holiday season. Her work brings these divergent aspects together in a cohesive, heartwarming narrative that holds the audience until the end.

One of the strengths of Heart of the Holidays is its performances, particularly, Lengies. She delivers a realistic portrayal of Sam's initial reluctance to reconnect with her roots, her eventual realization, and tumultuous journey towards understanding her true self and the value of community and home.

Overall, Heart of the Holidays is a narrative that explores the joys of reconnection, realization and personal growth with well-placed humor, a dash of romance, and the spirit of the holiday season. The movie's central theme reaffirms the importance of community and love, making it a worthwhile watch for anyone seeking a feel-good, love-filled holiday movie. A fusion of compelling performances with a relatable and inspirational narrative makes Heart of the Holidays a movie that you would want to revisit time and again, and not just during the holiday season.