Believe in Christmas places emphasis on Christmasland, a fictitious and extraordinary place where dreams are said to come true. The film starts as two friends, a rather pessimistic Bea and her energetic partner, Emilia, decide to take a Christmas holiday away from the usual festivities. The pair ends up in a place full of warmth, harmonious music, delicious pancakes, and friendly people. While there, Bea meets Ethan, a man who has gone through some difficult times and who is willing to love again. At the same time, Emilia goes on a self-reflecting journey which is why this story is more than just about love it’s about happiness, hope and faith in wonderful things.
Themes and Character Arcs
The film is not confined to the joyous stupidities of the holidays, it also deals with worthiness and the significance of friendship, as well as forgiveness.
- Bea’s journey is one of reclaiming her confidence and rediscovering the magic in the mundane.
- Ethan, as her counterpart, struggles with moving past personal loss, making their bond a catalyst for growth.
- Emilia, with her adventurous spirit, adds levity and a subplot that complements Bea’s arc, reinforcing the importance of support systems.
Cast and Their Backgrounds
The pairing of Meghan Ory and John Reardon adds a layer of authenticity to the story.
- Meghan Ory (Once Upon a Time): Known for her nuanced portrayals, Ory’s background in fairy-tale-like narratives adds depth to Bea’s transformation.
- John Reardon (Hudson & Rex): With a reputation for playing grounded, relatable characters, Reardon brings charm and gravity to Ethan.
- Kevin Hanchard (Orphan Black): A seasoned performer, Hanchard elevates the story with his portrayal of a mentor figure who embodies the Christmasland spirit.
Production Details
The film captures the magic of Christmasland through a combination of real-world charm and clever set design.
- Location: Filmed in Halifax, Nova Scotia, the picturesque snow-covered streets and quaint shops serve as perfect backdrops, evoking nostalgia and wonder.
- Design: The production team used practical effects and set pieces to recreate the feeling of stepping into a holiday dream, avoiding heavy reliance on CGI for a grounded, heartfelt aesthetic.
Cultural and Social Significance
Seeing the struggles many go through in this life, Believe in Christmas refrains them from going overboard & reminds them of the little things in life. It enhances the importance of community, kindness and the feeling of togetherness which seems most relevant in this time of the years when plenty are in the search of peace of mind and hopes.
Behind-the-Scenes Fun
- Real-Life Chemistry: Meghan Ory and John Reardon’s real-life partnership makes their on-screen romance especially captivating. Their playful banter behind the scenes translated seamlessly into their characters’ dynamic.
- Inspirational Source: The movie draws heavily from Anne-Marie Meyer’s book, but the screenplay expands on the magical realism, bringing Christmasland to life in vivid detail.
Reception and Fan Anticipation
Ever since it was revealed, Believe in Christmas has received a high following from the loyal Hallmark fans. The first reviews acclaim the acting as heartfelt alongside the enhancing of the love and Christmas ideals. Those who are romantics in love with holiday movies and the works of literature will find it more appealing.
Further Recommendations for Holiday Cheer
If you’re looking for similar films that capture the essence of Believe in Christmas, consider:
- “The Holiday Calendar” (Netflix): A magical advent calendar changes a photographer’s life.
- “Let It Snow” (Netflix): A series of interconnected stories set in a small town during Christmas Eve.
- “A Christmas Prince” (Netflix): A journalist finds love while uncovering a royal secret.
These movies also explore themes of love, self-discovery, and the magic of the season, making them perfect companions for your holiday viewing.
