The Hallmark Channel managed to put forth a surprisingly excellent movie with its original piece “I’m Not Ready for Christmas” a part of the feel-good channels annual Countdown to Christmas.
I first encountered the beautiful Alicia Witt with the 2013 Hallmark holiday piece “A Very Merry Mix-up” and while she dazzled on screen with her perfect amount of cuteness, the movie failed to impress as anything other than a cheesy, safe, and typical Christmas season love story.
Witt is back again as the lead in “Ready” but this time the roles are reversed as her character Holly is now the shrewd and conniving business woman who puts her job status above everything else in her life.
As a marketing executive, Holly has made a career out of selling falsehood to consumers, and is willing to do whatever it takes to make partner at her firm.
After repeatedly blowing off her niece Anna (Mia Bagley) Holly is wearing thin her relationship with the only family she has left.
After missing Anna’s recital for a business meeting despite promising the tike she would attend, Holly’s sister (Brigid Brannagh) chastises her accordingly, referring to her work as a “get out of jail free card.”
Holly’s life is flipped upside down after Anna makes a wish with a mysterious Santa Clause charity worker (who of course implies he is the real St Nick) that forces her to uncontrollably tell the truth at all times (in a mold similar to “Liar Liar” or “What Women Want”).
“I’m Not Ready for Christmas” escapes the norm of a typical jovial Hallmark holiday movie and instead becomes an all out great piece.
Alicia Witt is flat out hysterical in the role of Holly. As she is forced to speak her true feelings despite the obvious awkwardness that follows, you will literally find yourself laughing out loud throughout the story.
The love element is accounted for in the presence of Drew (George Stults) Anna’s teacher and the kind of guy all women want; he’s genuine, he’s a do-gooder, he’s great with kids, his hairline is flawless.
Watching the budding relationship between the two is a work of art. Drew is plausible in all of his actions. Holly is likewise genuine, and her uncontrollable statements of truth allow her good heart to shine through.
“I’m Not Ready for Christmas” is the type of movie that has good replay value.
Its quaint and happy as a Christmas movie should be. Its also funny at every turn and a changeup from the usual style.
One can only hope Alicia Witt is hard at work for more screen time in 2016.
For more Alicia Witt, check out her new holiday song “I’m Not Ready for Christmas” available on iTunes! One listen and you’re sure to be in a festive mood!
by – Matt Christopher
