Once Upon a Holiday

Once Upon a Holiday is a heartwarming and festive story set in the magical period of Christmas time. It first aired in 2015 on the Hallmark Channel. Directed by James Head, this captivating romance-drama film stars Briana Evigan, Paul Campbell, and Greg Evigan. The film captures a unique love story with a refreshing theme, a far cry from the conventional fairytale narratives.

The story revolves around the enchanting character of Princess Katherine, played by Briana Evigan. Katherine is a sophisticated, free-spirited woman blessed with the royal status. However, the responsibilities and protocol associated with royalty feels suffocating to her, and the upcoming holidays make her feel even more confined; she yearns for a life away from the constant scrutiny and controlled customs. Katherine desires to experience the ordinary and simple life just like any other common citizen would. Her longing intensifies when she has to visit New York during the holiday season for a ceremonial obligation. Katherine sees this as an opportunity to briefly escape her royal life and experience an average lifestyle, a prospect she has dreamt of since her younger years.

The serendipitous moment comes when the princess decides to run away and blend in with the crowd. In the bustling streets of New York, festooned with the Christmas spirit, Katherine takes her first steps into an ordinary life, away from her royal duties. It’s here, in the 'unknown' world that Katherine crosses paths with Jack, a friendly, charismatic, and good-hearted contractor, portrayed by Paul Campbell.

Jack has his own struggles; as a small business owner, he grapples with the challenges that life constantly throws at him. However, his life takes a divergent turn when he unexpectedly meets Katherine. Unaware of her real identity, he is drawn towards her aura and individuality, and they embark on an intriguing journey together.

The film displays a captivating tale of their growing friendship and evolving dynamics. As one would expect from a Hallmark romantic drama, the chemistry between Campbell and Briana Evigan is palpable on the screen. The film effortlessly explores the intriguing blossoming bond amidst the festive spirit of New York.

Greg Evigan steps in the supportive role of the royal family's dependable agent. His character focuses on finding the runaway princess while also dealing with the chaos and tension behind the castle’s walls, which only exacerbates due to Katherine’s unanticipated disappearance. His elusive quest carries an interesting subplot that complements the core love story between Katherine and Jack.

Laced with heart-touching moments, the movie invokes a plethora of emotions, including love, joy, surprise, fear, and introspection. Its depiction of a diverse range of characters from two disparate worlds coming together is incredibly gripping. The storyline beautifully captures the essence of the holiday season, blending it with the underlying emotions of the characters, thereby taking the audience on an enthralling ride of enigma, excitement, and festive cheer. This makes Once Upon a Holiday an absolute treat for fans of romantic dramas and Christmas movies alike.

The performances by the lead pair, Briana Evigan and Paul Campbell, are compelling; their on-screen camaraderie is both natural and captivating. Briana presents a stunning portrayal of a sophisticated princess who craves a normal life, projecting a vivid image of her longingness and contentment in her chosen path. On the other side, Paul’s portrayal of a grounded and honest businessman who falls for the royal runaway is both realistic and heartwarming. Among the supporting cast, Greg Evigan delivers a solid performance, successfully adding depth to the story.

Once Upon a Holiday, with its captivating storyline, excellent performances and imbued holiday spirit, makes for an enjoyable watch. The film resonates with a universal message of seeking happiness in the simpler things in life, and celebrating the inherent magic of the holiday season. It provides a refreshing perspective on life, and reiterates the common saying that sometimes, the best joys are found outside the glamorous palaces and right among the ordinary streets. It prompts you to follow your heart, take risks, and find true happiness.