Poinsettias for Christmas

Poinsettias for Christmas is a 2018 holiday-themed movie helmed by Christie Will Wolf and brought to life by a cast featuring Bethany Joy Lenz, Marcus Rosner, Sharon Lawrence, and John Schneider.

The film centers on the story of Ellie Palmer, portrayed by Bethany Joy Lenz, who is a sophisticated businesswoman and a big city girl living a high-paced life in New York. A good-natured, smart individual with a reputation for resolving crises, she gets faced with an unexpected reality when she receives a distressing phone call from her family.

Ellie's family owns a poinsettia farm, the source of the town's pride, joy, and a major part of its economy as it serves as the highlight of the town's annual Christmas Parade. This year, however, the festive plants are not blossoming, with the poinsettias remaining green and unassuming. With just two weeks left before the grand event, a worried phone call from Ellie’s father, Paddy, portrayed by John Schneider, relays the news of the failing poinsettias, compelling her to temporarily leave her city life and return to her quaint hometown with the hopes of saving the farm and subsequently the Christmas spirit of the entire town.

Returning home after a long period opens up both old and new paths for Ellie. She reconnects with her roots, her passion for horticulture, and the delights of small-town life, which she had entirely forgotten amidst the chaos of the city life.

Marcus Rosner plays the character of Sean, a committed high school teacher and poinsettia whisperer with a deep love for the townsfolk and Ellie’s childhood friend. While Ellie tries to solve the poinsettia crisis with her business strategies and systematic approach, Sean helps her see the scenario from a completely different perspective, which adds significant tension and spice to the narrative.

As time runs out, the pressure mounts, not just to save their farm and the town’s Christmas spirit but also to retain their family's pride and honor. Amidst the chaos, the movie beautifully intertwines the blossoming romance between Ellie and Sean, the Christmas charm, the beauty of hometown connections, and the magic that a little faith and hope can work in challenging situations.

The film also stars Rhonda Dent as Marie, Ellie’s supportive sister, and Sharon Lawrence as Mrs. Palmer, Ellie's caring and grounded mother, who brings warmth to the family dynamics displayed in the movie while also providing heartfelt advice to her daughters.

Poinsettias for Christmas takes its audience on a heartwarming journey of family, old friendships, love, and nostalgia, all set against the enchanting backdrop of the Yuletide season. It reminds us about the power of community spirit and togetherness, especially during the holiday season. It intertwines the enchanting charm of Christmas, the warmth of family ties, old romantic sparks, and the magic of small-town traditions into a compelling narrative that exudes holiday spirit and sentimentality.

The cinematography is exceptional, capturing the festive mood, picturesque town, and spirited Christmas décor, which serve as a delightful backdrop throughout the film. The exceptional performance by the cast draped in a holiday-themed setting coupled with a compelling narrative makes it a pleasant movie to watch.

'Poinsettias for Christmas' is a thoughtful, slow-paced film that truly captures the essence of the holiday season, making it a delightful watch, particularly for those who love Christmas-themed movies. It takes the viewer on a heartwarming journey, reminiscent of Hallmark classics that leave audiences feeling content and joyous, making it a perfect addition to the holiday movie card.