Operation Christmas (2016): Joyful Story about Faith and Love
Early on in Hallmark’s Christmas movie campaign, this was among their 2016 debuts starring Marc Blucas. It wasn’t until Christmas Eve that my mother and I sat down to watch what we hoped would be one of our favorite films of the season. operation christmas
Operation Christmas (2016) Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Review
Seeking a “new normal” for her family is single (and divorced) mother Olivia Young’s (Tricia Helfer) priority. She takes her two kids off on a Christmas adventure rather than stay home hoping to find this. While at the wintry wonderland resort, she meets Scott McGuigan (Blucas). Scott too is a single father of a young daughter, only difference being he’s an Army Ranger whose job and duty takes him out of the country at any given moment.
Nearly a year passes during which time, the two don’t see each other again, until today. Into her new office, Olivia walks in to find the handsome face of Sgt. McGuigan. Scott explains why their special Christmas plans were cut short, and Olivia has to find a way to work with the Sergeant. You see, he’s been appointed her liaison of the military donation project she’s tasked with.
Operation Christmas (2016): Joyful Story about Faith and Love. Marc Blucas stars in this #Hallmark original. #Hallmarkies #ChristmasMovie Share on XThough the calendar says Christmas is over (what!?), this isn’t a technicality I’m going to let detract sharing this, what should be, my last Christmas film review of the season. If this does hold (I make no promises), I have to say this is quite possibly the best one to end the season on. There is a depth to this story that never bogs the viewer but rather inspires, makes us laugh and root for that seemingly elusive happy ending.
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Written by TV film veterans, this is a quality, favorite teleplay in this genre. I realize I’ve already said that about some of the films this season, but this one really is wonderful. Perhaps it’s the uniform and its representation, but give me a soldier as a leading man and portray the military with honor, and I’ll love the story forever. This is something along the lines of my reaction to Operation Christmas. As a believer in and of the military, and someone who is grateful beyond words for what they do, I appreciate stories that honor even a glimmer of this life.
Beyond what is the more “serious” side to this story, there are plenty of heartwarming and romantic moments in this film. I adored the cute matchmaking schemes of the kids, and the genuine relationship between Olivia and Scott. Also fun to note, this isn’t Blucas and Helfer’s first time sharing screen time. They also co-star in the short lived ABC series, Killer Women. Their chemistry might be completely different in this story, but it works nicely.
Lest I continue on, I’ll wrap this one up. Those who love Hallmark films or more specifically films like Soldier Love Story or The Christmas Card are sure to appreciate, respect and discover a gem in Operation Christmas. I know, without reservation, I can say that about this memorable, flawless and touching drama. ♥
Photos: Hallmark Media / Crown Media
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