Signed, Sealed, Delivered for Christmas – A Joyful Tearjerker

One of the best things Hallmark has going is the quirky characters of their wildly popular Signed, Sealed, Delivered franchise. Starting out as a two-hour pilot movie, it’s now moving to three 2015 movie specials, all of which is kick off with this 2-hour Christmas special.

Signed, Sealed, Delivered for Christmas (2014) Hallmark Review

Late deliveries keep our quartet in their own backyard, delaying all but Oliver’s Christmas plans. Shane (Kristin Booth) plans to treat herself to a spa; Rita (Crystal Lowe) has family to visit; and Norman (Geoff Gustafson) too has plans of his own. This leaves their fearless leader, Oliver (Eric Mabius) to carry out the last minute postal needs. Only, so loyal to each other, they put their plans on hold to be sure a little girl gets her Christmas wish; even as her mother lies ill in a hospital bed. Creative thinking and maybe a little heavenly assistance will be needed for the POstables to pull off this Christmas wish.

It’s not hard to love the cast of characters creator Martha Williamson (Touched by an Angel) brings to life in this old-fashion kind of series. There’s a sweet wit to each story though I appreciate that the writing isn’t afraid to be genuine. Something that can often take an unexpected turn and even, a sad conclusion. In other words, I don’t think this show does anything just for the sheer pleasure of tormenting viewers or because they thought it was the “only way” to further a plot. There’s always a beautiful reason behind the tears and that’s enough.

Honestly, I cannot say this (as a story) is my favorite though it’s still lovely in its own unique way. It has a nice emphasis on family even an unconventional one. The fact that these four friends form a close-knit friendship is really more akin to family is a primary structure to the overall picture and it sure is a pretty one. But within this, there’s broken barriers in Shane and even Oliver; especially when he realizes the importance of this delivery.

The production is nice, including seeing the gang all decked out in their Christmas finery; Oliver being typical Oliver (seriously, who talks like he does!? I mean, I love the guy, but how he refers to past events – as if Shane forgot! – is too cute) and the much anticipated dance featuring Oliver and Shane putting those dance lessons to good use. Anyone who is a part of the Twitter POstables army will be sorry if they miss this. This is why I do have to advise you to make a date with Hallmark (Movie Channel) because this new journey will move you.

There’s plenty of holiday cheer to deliver, an emotional (spiritual) message to receive, and of course, a poignant message as we enter this Christmas season. Really, this is the perfect bit of holiday cheer. It’s something that has Hallmark’s signature all over it and is hard not to enjoy the results of.

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