Cast
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Laura Bell Bundy
as Emily
Brendon Zub
as Gerrard
Paloma Kwiatkowski
as Chey
Frazey Ford
as Ivy
Johannah Newmarch
as Adele
Jordan Ninko
as James
Steven Cree Molison
as Art
Curtis Tweedie
as Eddie
Jacqueline Robbins
as Edna
BJ Harrison
as Pearl
James Pizzinato
as Chuck
Hilary Strang
as Pam
Susan Wilkey
as Nonna
Cassidy Slingsby
as Chloe
Ian Rozylo
as Inspector David Rosales
Crew
Director
- Allan Harmon
Writer
- Cookie Boyle
- Walter Sawadsky
Producer
- Cynde Harmon
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
The Christmas Calendar represents a fascinating example of TV Movie/Family/Comedy/Romance cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Allan Harmon brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2017, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Christmas Calendar took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 83 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 103 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 31 unique compositions.
- The costume department created over 175 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2017, when this film is released:
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Christmas Calendar shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Home for Christmas Day, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Christmas Calendar subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Jeremy's Tree and Bach - A Christmas Miracle explore similar territory, The Christmas Calendar stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: November 19, 2017
- Runtime: 1h 23m
Where to Watch
