Family for Christmas (2015)

Family for Christmas Poster

At the height of her career, investigative journalist Hannah Dunbar finds herself wondering what would have been had she stayed with the love of her life, Ben, 10 years before. When Santa Claus hears her “what ifs?” as a Christmas wish, he transports Hannah to a version of her life where she and Ben started a family.

Background Information
"Family for Christmas" is a Hallmark Channel initial movie that premiered in 2015. The leading functions in this holiday-themed film are played by popular stars like Lacey Chabert and Tyron Leitso. Directed by Amanda Tapping, the film falls under the categories of Drama and Fantasy. The movie script was penned by Bryar Freed.

Film Plot
The film revolves around Hannah Dunbar (played by Lacey Chabert), a successful profession woman and investigative press reporter. Hannah is content with her life up until she runs into her high school boyfriend, Ben (played by Tyron Leitso), during her Christmas party. That encounter leads her to wonder what life would have been like if she had actually stayed with Ben.

The Twist
After the Christmas party, Hannah shares her thoughts with the festive character who is the regional Santa Claus, suggesting she lost out on a potential life with Ben. The next morning, she wakes up to a new truth where she is wed to Ben. She's no longer a career female; instead, she is a stay-at-home mom of 2 charming children. This change leaves Hannah mystified as she finds herself browsing through tasks of a typical rural mother, from supervising homework to baking cookies and from embellishing your home for Christmas to coordinating school events.

Turning Point
Though initially overwhelmed by this drastic life modification, Hannah begins to welcome her brand-new role as a mom and wife. The love of her kids and the warmth of her loving other half Ben make her value the family she now has. Concurrently, she struggles with the memories of her previous life, where she was recognized for her expert accomplishments and self-reliance.

Conclusion
As the film progresses, Hannah discovers that her career and individual life does not need to be equally unique and understands the importance of balance. She begins missing her journalism responsibilities and attempts to show her abilities by helping her child with a school newspaper project. Simply when she reconciles with the brand-new world, she is transported back to her old life. The experience, nevertheless, leaves her an altered individual, and she understands that she can have all of it-- a fulfilling career, household, and happiness-- she just needed to strike the ideal balance.

In the end, she shares her sensations with Ben from her old life. He acknowledges that he too has wondered about the opportunities they missed out on. They agree to have a supper, indicating they may offer their relationship another shot in this life, and leaves the audience with the impression that Hannah gets the very best of both worlds.

Summary
"Family for Christmas" is a heartwarming film that showcases the classic issue faced by many-- the battle in between career and household. The story perfectly delivers a message about the importance of striking a balance in life, treasuring the heat of household love and the fulfillment originated from career achievements. Lacey Chabert's engaging performance successfully keeps the audience hooked up until the end. The film's intangible mix of fantasy and reality, coupled with its fundamental Christmas beauty, makes it an outstanding look for the holiday season.

Top Cast

  • Lacey Chabert (small)
    Lacey Chabert
    Hannah Dunbar
  • Tyron Leitso (small)
    Tyron Leitso
    Ben Matthews
  • Matthew Kevin Anderson (small)
    Matthew Kevin Anderson
    Grant Walker
  • Brittney Wilson (small)
    Brittney Wilson
    Carrie Garrett
  • Jill Morrison (small)
    Jill Morrison
    Tammy Frink
  • Keith MacKechnie (small)
    Keith MacKechnie
    Santa Clause
  • James Kirk (small)
    James Kirk
    Carl Oxley