Too Close for Christmas is a Canadian romantic comedy starring Jessica Lowndes as Hayley Parker, Chad Michael Murray as Paul Barnett, Vanessa Sears as Amy Parker-Barnett, Steve Byers as Tim Barnett, Seana McKenna as Judy Barnett and Robert Stewart as Penn Barnett. Directed by Ernie Barbarash, the story is penned by Nicole Baxter.
The runtime of the movie released on Netflix is 1 hour 29 minutes. The synopsis reads, “Hayley’s plan to spend Christmas with her sister’s new in-laws hits a snag when the man who triggered her break-up with her ex unexpectedly shows up.”
Too Close for Christmas Review Contains No Spoilers
In Too Close for Christmas movie, Hayley decides to spend the Christmas holiday week with her sister Amy and her in-laws. Hayley wants a good holiday but is unhappy to see Amy’s brother-in-law Paul in the house. Paul is one of the reasons for Hayley’s break-up with her ex-boyfriend.
Hayley and Paul initially have an argumentative relationship. But as they spend more time together, they find each other interesting. Will the enemies turn into lovers in the end? Well, that’s a Christmas miracle we hope to see in the end.
Christmas romantic movies are all about celebration, love, cheers and comfort. Using the same elements, Ernie and Nicole have presented us with a story where two people don’t get along well. There’s no love at first sight or meet-cute here.
Paul, who is full of himself, loves to explore new places and has a habit of making observations. He often taunts Hayley for not noticing the red flags in her ex. Hayley doesn’t like how Paul thinks he knows her and the people around him well. She can’t stop blaming him for the break-up. It leaves one wondering how the makers will make them fall for each other, especially when they have a weird history.
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The movie also focuses on Hayley adjusting to the complicated Christmas traditions of the Barnett family. Whether it’s waking up early or doing certain tasks together, she has to get out of her comfort zone. However, Paul’s presence takes away her fun until they get to know each other.
Too Close for Christmas is a Christmas movie, and everything ends well. The makers followed the same formula and packed some funny and heartwarming moments between Paul and Hayley. From the two talking about their likes, dislikes, and favourite food to taking long walks, the movie follows every formula that makes Christmas movies special.
The movie also talks about Hayley’s professional life not being that great. There’s also a charity event thrown in at the end. However, these two elements add nothing to the plot and drag the story unnecessarily. It would’ve been better if the maker kept it an out-and-out rom-com. Except for the opening song, the music isn’t exceptional.
Actors Chad Michael Murray and Jessica Lowndes have wonderful chemistry together. Both the actors did a good job. The supporting cast hasn’t contributed much to the story but played their part well.
Too Close for Christmas Movie Review: Final Thoughts
Overall, Too Close for Christmas (2020) is a sweet, simple and silly movie of which we have seen many versions to date. It’s an apt movie for people who like Christmas specials where everything has a happy ending.
Watch the movie on Netflix.
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