Cast
View All
Bethany Joy Lenz
as Lucy Ralston
Victor Webster
as Jake Finlay
Paula Shaw
as Margo Ralston
Jay Brazeau
as Walter Ralston
Robert Wisden
as Ted Ralston
Alistair Abell
as Emcee
Barbara Patrick
as Suzanne Ralston
Grace Beedie
as Amber Ralston
Andres Collantes
as Carlos
Laura Soltis
as Beth Thompson
Blair Penner
as Will Ralston
Mirabelle Will Wolf
as Little Girl
Sarah Edmondson
as Annie Ralston
Tom Pickett
as Mr. Donahue
Jesse Miller
as Bea Assistant
Crew
Director
- Christie Will Wolf
Writer
- Stephen Witkin
- Michael Elliot
- Alfonso H. Moreno
Producer
- Ron French
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Five Star Christmas represents a fascinating example of TV Movie/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 Christie Will Wolf 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 2020, 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 Five Star Christmas took approximately 31 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 84 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 7 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The costume department created over 140 unique costume pieces for the production.
Historical Context
- In 2020, when this film is released:
- The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
- Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Five Star Christmas shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Christmas in Boston, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Five Star Christmas offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like A Merry Christmas Match and Christmas in Pine Valley explore similar territory, Five Star Christmas stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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 27, 2020
- Runtime: 1h 24m
Where to Watch
