The Christmas Contest (2021)

The Christmas Contest Poster

Exes Lara and Ben compete in a Christmas contest to win money for the charity of their choosing. The city watches them battle and choose what is more important, victory or love.

Introduction
"The Christmas Contest" is a 2021 holiday-themed film directed by Marita Grabiak. The motion picture falls under the normal Hallmark banner comprising vacation magic, love, and a feel-good narrative. The central characters are portrayed by Candace Cameron Bure playing Lara, and John Brotherton as Ben.

Plot
The movie's narrative focuses on Lara and Ben, who were when deeply in love with each other, but are now separated exes. In spite of their personal history, both Lara and Ben share an undying passion for Christmas and are pitted versus each other in their town's yearly Christmas contest run by local radio station.

As the contest advances, the competitive small talk in between the ex-couple sparks amusement within the town, making everybody tune into the radio show. This same competition sets off a series of occasions that bring them near each other again, advising them of the love they once shared. Their passion for the holiday allows them to look beyond their differences and value the important things that initially brought them together.

Themes
"The Christmas Contest" follows a number of repeating themes often found in vacation movies. One widespread style is the power of forgiveness and love. As Lara and Ben browse their way through the contest, they are reminded of their shared history and the love they as soon as had for each other. This requires them to re-evaluate their previous problems and discover how to forgive.

Another theme present in the film is the spirit of Christmas and neighborhood. Despite their personal history, both Lara and Ben put their dedicated efforts into winning the Christmas contest, not just for themselves, however for the joy and upliftment of their community. This dedication to their neighborhood and the Christmas spirit serves as a catalyst to their revived affection.

Acting and Production
With the well-renowned Candace Cameron Bure playing Lara, the movie offers a strong performance that efficiently highlights her character's emotional predicament and her growth throughout the motion picture. Similarly, John Brotherton plays the role of Ben excellently, adding a layer of charm to the movie.

The production catches the vacation magic perfectly. From the snowy scenes to elaborately decorated Christmas trees, the film aesthetically tells the story's essence: Christmas spirit and love.

Conclusion
The Christmas Contest, with its focus on forgiveness, love, and holiday spirit, successfully brings out the essence of a classic holiday film. Regardless of the cliché story of exes reigniting their relationship, the execution steered by strong performances from the lead cast, and distinctive production design, makes it an enjoyable watch. This movie puts you right in the Christmas spirit while providing a heartwarming story of love and reconciliation that matches the vacation vibes. The balance between romance, vacation spirit, and social drama makes "The Christmas Contest" a remarkable Christmas movie.

Top Cast

  • Candace Cameron Bure (small)
    Candace Cameron Bure
    Lara
  • John Brotherton (small)
    John Brotherton
    Ben
  • Barbara Niven (small)
    Barbara Niven
    Donna
  • B. J. Harrison (small)
    B. J. Harrison
    Martha
  • Jennifer Higgin (small)
    Jennifer Higgin
    Bernie
  • Doron Bell (small)
    Doron Bell
    Marty
  • Keenan Tracey (small)
    Keenan Tracey
    Chuck
  • Matteus Lunot
    Jayce
  • Daxton Gujral
    Liam
  • Kingston Gomes
    Ellis
  • Nevin Burkholder (small)
    Nevin Burkholder
    Bill