With Love, Christmas

With Love, Christmas is a heartwarming romantic comedy that embodies the spirit of the holiday season. This 2017 film is directed by Marita Grabiak, known for her work on a variety of television series and films. The movie stars Emilie Ullerup and Aaron O'Connell, two strong performers who bring their characters to life in a simple yet effective manner. Rebecca Davis also has a supporting role in the movie, enhancing the plot with her remarkable performance.

The lead character Melanie Welch (Emilie Ullerup) works as an advertising executive and finds herself stuck trying to come up with a Christmas campaign for a new cell phone. As the final days of the year approach, she struggles to find the holiday spirit that would provide her with the inspiration she needs for her project. Notably, Melanie’s character is a perfectionist, brisk, and always organized. Her challenge lies in overworking herself over the Christmas season, which somehow dampens her festive mood.

On the other hand, co-star Aaron O'Connell depicts Donovan Goodwin, a handsome colleague of Melanie's. Donovan is contrastingly different from Melanie. He is easy-going, fun-loving, and the kind of guy who lights up the office atmosphere during Christmas with his sheer enthusiasm. Donovan appreciates the holidays in every sense of it, enjoying activities that make the season special – decorating the tree, hanging lights, singing carols. However, back in his mind, he longs for someone special to share these magical moments with.

As part of the office tradition, the employees participate in a secret Santa gift exchange. In a twist of fate, Melanie draws Donovan's name. Being unfamiliar with Donovan’s preferences, she starts to learn more about him under the pretext of needing help with her Christmas campaign. Consequently, Melanie starts to see the holiday season through Donovan's eyes, coming to appreciate the real meaning and wonder behind Christmas. As they spend time together working on the commercial, the bond between them develops and hints at a budding romance.

Throughout the film, the audience gets to experience the gradual transformation of Melanie, as she turns from work-obsessed to someone who enjoys life's simple pleasures, especially during Christmas. It’s a feel-good movie that subtly reminds viewers of the importance of taking a break from a busy routine and savoring the holiday season's joy and wonder.

Ullerup and O’Connell demonstrate excellent on-screen chemistry, making the subtle transition from colleagues to friends to perhaps something more believable and enjoyable. As Melanie learns more about Donovan, Ullerup’s nuanced portrayal of her character’s changing perceptions provides a solid foundation for the romantic tension in the movie. O’Connell also impresses with his ability to convey Donovan’s affability and charismatic charm, which makes it easy to see why Melanie is drawn to him. Rebecca Davis also brings a sparkle to the office setting, her role helping to drive the plot forward while also offering comic relief.

Set against a festive backdrop, the movie captures the essence of the holiday season beautifully with snow-capped scenes, Christmas decorations, and merry festivities. The delightful holiday music adds to the festive flavor, thereby keeping the spirit of Christmas alive throughout the film.

With Love, Christmas is a light-hearted and uplifting film that beautifully captures the essence of the holiday season while intertwining a love story that tugs at the heartstrings. The two protagonists' journey, coupled with the warmth and exuberance of the holiday season, makes this film a delightful treat. This enchanting Christmas romance is perfect for those who love a blend of holiday magic and heartwarming love stories. It's an appealing and wholesome choice for the viewer who loves to sink into the couch with a hot drink in hand and enjoy the cozy atmosphere that Christmas movies like this provide.