‘CHRISTMAS UNDER THE LIGHTS’: A HOMETOWN SEASONAL CARNIVAL CELEBRATION
With lots of (obviously) twinkle lights and a girl returning to her hometown, Christmas Under the Lights is another sweet Christmas movie.
Christmas Under the Lights (2024) Hallmark TV Film Review
Putting on a Christmas festival is a task artist Luke (Marco Grazzini) gets drawn into. Or at least it’s about to be. His designated partner is Emily (Heather Hemmens), a former local reluctantly returning to visit for Christmas. The pair don’t agree on everything, but as they get to know each other and the festiveness and cheer of the season shows them that despite their respective hardships, this season may actually be one of their best yet.
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‘CHRISTMAS UNDER THE LIGHTS’: A HOMETOWN SEASONAL CARNIVAL CELEBRATION. Review of the #Hallmark film. #ChristmasMovies #HallmarkChristmasMovies #HetherHemmens #MarcoGrazzini Share on XLike almost anything I’ve seen from Hallmark in this 2024 lineup, Christmas Under the Lights is sweet. I’ve liked, so far, everything I’ve seen Heather in, who also happens to be a newer TV film star, and yet she is very at ease. I like how she plays her roles and that she always has great confidence in her characters. I also think she’s a relatable character who, even as a grown adult, struggles with the choices of life and how to navigate them all.
Another big thing I like about this film is that it has the characters, who are mature adults with lives and careers, actually talk about their possible relationship and how it could work. Most movies just use the longing stare or dances around any would-be relationship. Seeing two people actually admit to having feelings and being interested, well, that’s a rare thing to see in films, and is a fabulous change. Dedicated Hallmark viewers will also love to see a cute cameo, too.
In the end, Christmas Under the Lights is good. It has a sibling relationship we love to cheer on and themes of friendship, plus a romance, too (this wouldn’t be Hallmark without one, right?). It’s got a ton of decor, lights and just good cheer. Even the memories Emily has of her mother don’t really drag the film into a sad place although I am sure some will feel differently. I think it’s ultimately a part of the film that uplifts the heroine, so it doesn’t bother me. It’s a charming film that promotes a good story, and that’s all I really need.
Stream, at publication, Christmas Under the Lights, with Peacock
Photos: Hallmark Media
Content: nothing to note outside of the typical TV-G rating. There is a kiss or two and some minor flirting, but nothing that should bother anyone.
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