I wasn't planning to post anything today. But then two things happened. I watched Haul out the Holly last night and it was my second time seeing it - first time, last holiday season. I teared up several times! And then I read a comment in a Hallmark movie group that said it was too silly and implied that it was not Hallmark-worthy. What follows, for the most part, is my response. Writing it made me realize it would make a good review and perfect end to my Christmas in July week here on the blog! When Emily unexpectedly spends the holidays alone at her parents' house, their HOA insists that she participate in its many Christmas festivities. Starring Lacey Chabert, Wes Brown, Stephen Tobolowsky, Melissa Peterman and Ellen Travolta.
To me, it's about a lot more than that description tells you. Emily is a woman who has lost the wonder of Christmas. You find out how and why at the beginning. The movie is about her journey to rediscover it. I'll say a little more about that below, but there are spoilers, so if you think you might watch it, don't read the next section.
In lots of movies, it's the women who LOVE Christmas. I was excited to see a movie where an entire neighborhood loved Christmas, and the main guy loved it so much, he (1) made himself a sort of Christmas king and (2) was hurt when he wasn't chosen to be Santa Claus. Also, it touched me to see Emily rediscover the love of Christmas she used to have, and part of the underlying story is that her parents set that up for her. They took down the tree so she would have to decorate it again. Etc. And the whole neighborhood seemed to be in on it. And when they inducted her into Team Kringle, I thought that was really sweet. By the way, it is also quite funny! And maybe a little silly. In an endearing way. But there were also parts that made me tear up! And, again, these are SPOILERS... When they inducted her into Team Kringle. When she woke up as an adult and said, "it's Christmas!" It was proof that her love of Christmas had been restored.When she realized that her parents were giving her the house. Does it seem like a movie you would like? If you want to watch it yourself, I am sure it will come on several more times before Christmas in July is over. See you next time! Love, Jeanine
14 Comments
I enjoy Christmas movies, but I have to be in a particular mood to watch them. I probably would watch this as background during the holidays/
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7/23/2023 04:48:24 pm
Oh, thanks, Dominique!! Well, there is going to be a sequel, so hopefully you'll get them watch them both at some point during the Christmas season. :)
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7/23/2023 02:48:53 pm
Christmas in July reminds me about being a craft demonstrator, and, you guessed it, making endless designs for christmas cards. I put holiday films on to get me in the mood.
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7/23/2023 04:50:59 pm
Oh, I love that you made designs for Christmas cards! And I can see how a Christmas movie would get you in the mood for it.
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Brenda Marie Fluharty
7/23/2023 02:57:30 pm
Sounds like a wonderful movie.
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7/23/2023 04:54:27 pm
Almost, Tamara! I'm actually into Christmas all year long!! Well, if neither the post nor the trailer convinced you, it may not be for you. But that's okay. No movie is for everyone.
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7/23/2023 03:16:22 pm
I haven't seen this movie yet, but your review will make sure I catch it. I like movies that bring a touch of sadness, yet it is also related to the season and what it really means and can mean if done with the true love of Christ in your heart. I have to admit as I have grown older Christmas is less obvious in my home, more obvious in my heart, than it used to be. Perhaps this year I will watch this movie and get my Christmas decorating and spirit aligned and in high gear! Thank you Jeanine. Cindy Rae
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7/23/2023 04:56:11 pm
Thank you, Cindy!! Oh, that sounds fun. I hope this next Christmas season is wonderful for you in every way.
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7/23/2023 04:57:45 pm
Oh, thanks, Martha!! Well, good. I bet you will enjoy it this next season.
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7/23/2023 09:53:07 pm
Jeanine, I have been watching Hallmark movies a lot this year, in great part due to your enthusiasm for them. I just watched a trio of Hallmark movies with Jewel, and I hope they bring her back! I love your review of this movie and the story line. And what beautiful interiors this house has! A lot of people seem to be celebrating Christmas in July right now. I remember having a Christmas in July party one year, and so many people came! We borrowed an artificial tree and did a lot of decorating, even roasted a turkey!
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7/23/2023 11:46:57 pm
Oh, I'm so happy to hear that you have been watching Hallmark movies! And I love the idea of a Christmas in July party. I would go to one in a heartbeat! You are right, that house is beautiful. Especially the bedroom.
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