If You Believe

If You Believe is a heartwarming and magical movie that was originally released in 1999. This heart-touching holiday movie stands apart for not just spreading Christmas spirit, but seamlessly blending sentimentality with an introspective gaze into the lives of its central characters. The main actors of the film are Ally Walker, Tom Amandes, and a young Hayden Panettiere. This charming and lighthearted movie, directed by Alan Metzger, cleverly combines the genres of drama, comedy, and fantasy, offering the audience a wonderful viewing experience.

The film primarily revolves around Susan Stone, a character essayed flawlessly by Ally Walker. She is depicted as a hardworking and successful literary editor, who has devoted her entire life to her career. While she is successful professionally, her personal life is riddled with disappointments, loneliness, and a failed marriage. Over the years, she has turned into a cynical person, devoid of happiness, constantly looking over her shoulder at a life filled with missed opportunities and lost joys.

The movie starts with a professional setback for Susan, further deepening her cynicism and bitterness. In these bleak circumstances, an unexpected character of her young self, named Suzie, played convincingly by Hayden Panettiere, comes into her life. Suzie is a special character, a figment of adult Susan's subconscious, which manifests as her 7-year-old self. She is the embodiment of the youthful, vibrant, imaginative and positive personality that Susan initially possessed but had lost over the years.

Hayden Panettiere's character, Suzie, carries an essential role throughout the movie. She provides Susan with a much-needed perspective on her life. Her innocent, joyful persona clashes against Susan's bitter reality, triggering a journey of self-reflection and personal growth for Susan. Suzie becomes a constant companion of Susan, acting as a cheerful reminder of the happier times of her life, and urging her to reignite her long-lost zest for life.

This companionship engages the audience in a story of rediscovery and transformation, as the hardened, cynical adult undersgoes a profound change, learning to embrace joy and optimism once more. Susan, haunted by Suzie’s influence, gradually starts reconnecting with her past memories and experiences, which leads to significant changes in her view towards life.

Tom Amandes plays the endearing role of Tom Weller in the movie, a character who further instigates change in Susan's life. He is portrayed as a talented but struggling writer seeking a break. His interactions with Susan bring a delightful and subtle romantic angle to the film.

If You Believe does not rely on the typical holiday tropes to move its narrative forward. Instead, it is a deep and philosophical take on life's myriad experiences, packaged within a holiday setting. The film conveys the message that it's never too late to change and rekindle one's passions, shake off past disappointments, and overcome personal setbacks to find happiness and satisfaction once more.

The magic of the Christmas season is beautifully encapsulated in the movie, offering viewers a wholesome and thought-provoking cinematic journey that ends with an optimistic outlook on life. The film's ending leaves viewers with a sense of hope, joy, and a renewed faith in the spirit of the holiday season.

What makes If You Believe an absolute delight is its fantastic ensemble cast who deliver their roles with impeccable performances. Ally Walker's portrayal of a severe, no-nonsense persona turning into a more joyous, softer character is truly commendable. Tom Amandes' subtle and charming performance adds another layer of attractiveness to the film. But, it's Hayden Panettiere's portrayal of the effervescent Suzie that brings an extra measure of charm and appeal to the movie.

Alan Metzger’s skillful direction brings together these strong performances, a nuanced narrative, and a cheery holiday backdrop to create a truly enjoyable, introspective, and heartwarming film. If You Believe is more than just a holiday film—it's a feel-good movie that promotes self-transformation, personal growth, and rediscovery of the lost joys of life.