Hearts Of Christmas

Hearts Of Christmas is a captivating family holiday drama directed by Monika Michell and released in 2016. This festive flick features the talented acting skills of Emilie Ullerup, Kristoffer Polaha, and Sharon Lawrence. It takes the audience on an emotional rollercoaster filled with festive spirit, heartwarming bonds, traditional values, self-realization, and love.

Emilie Ullerup portrays Jenny Miller, the soulful, passionate character whose life's driving force is caring for those around her. As a caring and dedicated nurse, she maintains warm relationships with her patients at the hospital where she works. However, her sympathetic heart and care extend beyond her professional responsibilities. As the voice and spirit of the nursing staff, when the hospital's beloved head of administration, Matt, retires, Jenny takes it upon herself to ensure his departure is marked with the appreciation and respect he deserves.

But her simple mission turns complicated when a new CFO, Max Abbott, played by Kristoffer Polaha, steps into the scene. Max is a practical, business-oriented individual with his eye set on reducing costs and enhancing the hospital's efficiency. He ends up slashing the budget for the nurses' festivities, rudely awakening the heartfelt wishes of the nurses, especially Jenny, who desired a grand farewell for Matt.

The film beautifully explores the evolving dynamics between Jenny and Max. Max, who initially appears to be a villain cutting budgets, unexpectedly unravels a soft side with a surprising backstory that makes him more relatable and likable. His character adds a human element to the corporate world, demonstrating that behind every tough decision, there might be a person full of compassion, mirroring the complexities of real life.

Sharon Lawrence delivers a convincing performance as the kind and understanding retiree Matt, whose character serves as a pivot around which the main protagonists evolve, learn, and grow.

As the holiday season erupts around them, the characters are faced with challenges, growth opportunities, and the chance to learn what it truly means to care. Jenny and Max, two contrasting personalities, are bound together by their common passion for helping others, leading to an unfolding romantic storyline that adds to the movie's warmth and charm.

The film encapsulates the essence of Christmas through Alyssa Ciccarello's heart-tugging screenplay, making it a must-watch for the holidays. It reminds us of the power of hope, kindness, and love that can soften even the hardest of hearts and change one's perspective about life.

Despite the hurdles, disputes, and their contrasting perspectives on life, Jenny and Max develop an unlikely friendship that blossoms into more, all amid the preparations for Matt's retirement party. The film successfully balances the elements of drama, romance, and holiday spirit, making it an engaging watch throughout.

Filmed in stunning settings that effortlessly enhance the festive mood, Hearts of Christmas is visually striking. The cinematographer captures the magic of Christmas very elegantly, with twinkling lights, softly falling snow, beautiful decorations, and charming holiday traditions that define the festive season.

All these elements, complemented by a delightful unwinding story and remarkable performances by Ullerup, Polaha, and Lawrence, make Hearts of Christmas a pleasure to watch. The film leaves the audience with tears of joy, a heart full of hope, and a renewed sense of the true meaning of Christmas – love, family, and celebrations of togetherness.

Hearts Of Christmas is an emotional yet heartwarming gem that serves as a delightful reminder of the joy and selflessness of the holiday season. Watch it as a part of your annual holiday movie tradition, or just when you want a refreshing, feel-good film that leaves you with a deep sense of satisfaction.