Last Vermont Christmas

Last Vermont Christmas is a heartwarming holiday story set in the picturesque landscapes of Vermont during the Christmas season. Starring Erin Cahill, Justin Bruening, and Catherine Corcoran, this 2018 release weaves a sophisticated tale of family, love, change, and the bonding power of Christmas.

Erin Cahill is at the heart of the movie as Megan, the proactive and compassionate eldest of three sisters. A successful lawyer in the big city, Megan is the quintessential overachiever. Her life seems to be on the perfect track until she learns her parents are retiring and planning to sell their beloved family home in Vermont. This news acts as the catalyst, drawing Megan back to her hometown and sparking a chain of events that lead to an exploration of family bonds, personal growth, and rediscoveries.

Accompanied by her two younger sisters, reminiscent, and seeking to engage in their holiday rituals one last time, Megan's plan is thrown off course with the introduction of Nash, played by Justin Bruening. A high school sweetheart from Megan's past, Nash is now a successful architect. Justin Bruening's portrayal of Nash is sensitive and relatable, another character propelled towards confronting his own emotions as the storyline unfolds.

In the heart of the house selling process, with Nash's involvement, the three sisters find themselves torn between their attachment to their childhood home and their acceptance of their parents' wishes. The story showcases the sisters' reluctance to let go of their past, their memories of the Vermont house, and their attempt to celebrate one last Christmas together in their most cherished place.

Catherine Corcoran's performance as one of the sisters adds colors to this Christmas drama. She embodies the spirit of change that is a central theme of the movie, bringing authenticity and depth to her role. Her journey from bitterness towards the change to acceptance, and finally grabbing the helm of change, makes her character interesting and multidimensional.

The childhood home at the center of the narrative is almost a character in itself. Beautifully decorated for the holiday season, this picturesque Vermont house encapsulates the essence of every valued childhood memory, holiday ritual, and deeply rooted family tradition. Its charm and significance to the story are beautifully portrayed and resonate deeply with viewers who have their own cherished homestead.

Last Vermont Christmas, beautifully directed and shot, creates a warm and cozy picture of holiday celebrations filled with festive decorations, baking, snow, and most importantly, family. Through the protagonist's journey, the movie does not shy away from addressing the universal struggle of embracing change. The complex dynamics of the family, the sisterly interactions, and the rekindling of old bonds arrive paired with a hint of romance and humor, making the narrative engaging.

Besides the main plotline about the childhood home, the movie features several other storylines. It dives into each sister's life, giving the viewers insight into their goals, dreams, and fears. It masterfully develops each character distinctively, making them relatable to the viewers and adding depth to the movie. The chemistry between the cast is palpable, making the family dynamics appear realistic on screen.

The film also focuses on the beautiful relationship between parents and children. It underscores the sacrifices parents make for their children's happiness, beautifully displayed when the daughters try to persuade their parents not to sell the house. The movie balances this emotional turmoil with light-hearted family interactions, effectively maintaining an entertaining and heartfelt narrative.

In essence, Last Vermont Christmas encapsulates the Christmas holiday's warmth and tradition while tackling themes of change, self-growth, and the power of family bonds. With a charming setting, a dynamic cast, and a narrative that unpicks the intricacies of family relationships during the holiday season, this film is much more than a festive holiday watch. It's a sincere examination of what it means to let go of the past, embrace the future and hold fast to the people who make any place home.