'Making Spirits Bright' is a decent Christmas movie, not one of Hallmark's best nor one of their worst this season. Though a sweet romance with a noble underlining message, the story, at times, is slow, even tiresome, I'm afraid. This mildly entertaining Romeo and Juliet tale meets the art/business of Christmas decoration revolves around Grace (played by Taylor Cole) and Tony (played by Carlo Marks) whose fathers are former business partners/friends turned feuding adversaries. The old rivalry is stirred up again this Christmas as the two families enter the Bright Nights competition (with its $50,000 grand prize). As Grace and Tony work behind the scenes to help each other and their fathers, they begin to realize that they must find a way to work together to win the competition. They also begin to discover their feelings for each other along the way. One of the strengths of the story, I thought, was the dialogue and interaction between Tony and Grace. The writers do a good job of developing and capturing a romantic connection between the two that is believable and engaging. Moreover, the underlining message about the value of friendship and forgiveness resonates well on-screen with, for example, a heartfelt and touching scene towards the end between the two fathers, Bill (played by Garry Chalk) and Frank (played by John Cassini). However, the story is slow at times, boring even. Simply put: it lacked that X factor, something to make it stand out in a crowd. The acting, overall, is strong. I was impressed with Cole's performance in particular. She had a warm and gentle vibe to her performance that was lovely to watch on-screen. A very convincing performance, I felt. The two have good chemistry as well, which is a plus for a romance film. As I alluded to above, this storyline is what makes this movie appealing. Chalk and Cassini both had solid performances, which climaxed in a touching scene at the end (as noted above). Given the story is about a Christmas decoration competition, it has plenty of Christmas spirit and festive cheer. Thou a bit slow at times, all in all, it is a sweet romance with a good message and some strong performances by the leads. Worth checking out if you are a fan of Hallmark Christmas movies.
18 Reviews
Spin on x-mas light competitions
hallmarkmov28 November 2021
I've watched Christmas light competitions every Christmas and I have noticed more and more are automated with club lights and music than Christmas time, so I liked the concept of the movie fighting for traditional lights and set ups over commercialized ones. The b story with the business partner was distracting. Maybe because I watched it in the background, but I found the scenes awkward and didn't fit with the story. I hated the "friend" and they didn't make her likeable or redeemable. I liked the chemistry between the leads and the families but that b story really got to me and lowered my rating of the movie.
Hatfield and McCoys string Christmas lights
Jackbv1232 December 2021
This is a pretty common take on the Christmas decoration feuding families. The one slightly fresh angle is celebrating the traditional approach over the noisy techy approach. The techy contest entry in this movie would definitely get annoying after a while, maybe after as little as two times through. The broad strokes of the story are definitely predictable and as is common for Hallmark, they wrapped up too many threads in HEA bows.
When the story is mostly same old stuff, I enjoy these movies when the leads' relationship has a chance to shine. In this movie, Grace and Tony got shorted on screen time. Maybe it was too many threads. Maybe it was too much contest.
I'm also not a fan of the arrogance and trash talking which in this movie almost reached the point of physical violence. The whole feuding angle was more than I would like to see, especially if, as I said, the relationship was shorted as a result.
There is a nice theme of reconciliation in more than one thread.
When the story is mostly same old stuff, I enjoy these movies when the leads' relationship has a chance to shine. In this movie, Grace and Tony got shorted on screen time. Maybe it was too many threads. Maybe it was too much contest.
I'm also not a fan of the arrogance and trash talking which in this movie almost reached the point of physical violence. The whole feuding angle was more than I would like to see, especially if, as I said, the relationship was shorted as a result.
There is a nice theme of reconciliation in more than one thread.
Keeping Christmas spirit bright.
gfrasmd28 November 2021
OK, there are no real sparks in this movie. The family feud and the lights competition ring recent and distant bells. Which should be discounted, as expected. Considering the myriad of Christmas and romantic movies continuously produced, fresh, new ideas are near-impossible, especially when one refuses to resort to sensationalism, depravity, vulgarity or violence. Thanks Heaven Hallmark has resisted temptation to walk that path. Within the self-imposed constraints, Hallmark comfortably presents us with light fare entertainment that ranges from boring to heartwarming, never objectionable. Sometimes we get the little magic that we would always want to find. Given the other alternatives available on the market, this is an accomplishment that should be recognized. Here we are with this film, which, still, delivers some kind or moving moments and, though formulaic, conform to Christmas spirit in reminding us of the values of family and friendship.
A very enjoyable movie
RaniaALDMR1 January 2022
A Bright Light
rebekahrox1 December 2021
This was a very sweet story with a lot of charm. Even though this was pretty low-key, it kept my interest throughout. Taylor Cole and Carlo Marks were excellent together. I've not always liked Taylor Cole, but she really came through as a small town family oriented girl, which is not a part one would usually associate with her. I don't think I've seen a Christmas movie based on the business of decorating houses before. So although the Romeo and Juliet outline was pretty standard stuff, the background it is set against is unusual.
Grace and Tony are the offspring of two fathers who have been feuding for years. They were once close friends and partners in a Christmas decorating business but their differing work styles drove them apart. Tony's father is a perfectionist which has caused him to miss deadlines and not get the job done. He puts art above money. Grace's father is into efficiency and making a profit. They both enter the town's Christmas decorating contest as competitors. However in an effort to defeat a mutual enemy who emphasizes technology over heart and tradition, they end up trying to work together.
There are some genuinely touching moments in this and romance is sweet, thanks to the chemistry between the two leads. The Romeo and Juliet romance is appealing as they go from uncertainty to friendship and then love. I loved the relationship of the two mothers, who have remained secret friends throughout their husbands' feud. Also adding an interesting dynamic was the fraught relationship between Grace and her partner in their home-staging business.
Grace and Tony are the offspring of two fathers who have been feuding for years. They were once close friends and partners in a Christmas decorating business but their differing work styles drove them apart. Tony's father is a perfectionist which has caused him to miss deadlines and not get the job done. He puts art above money. Grace's father is into efficiency and making a profit. They both enter the town's Christmas decorating contest as competitors. However in an effort to defeat a mutual enemy who emphasizes technology over heart and tradition, they end up trying to work together.
There are some genuinely touching moments in this and romance is sweet, thanks to the chemistry between the two leads. The Romeo and Juliet romance is appealing as they go from uncertainty to friendship and then love. I loved the relationship of the two mothers, who have remained secret friends throughout their husbands' feud. Also adding an interesting dynamic was the fraught relationship between Grace and her partner in their home-staging business.
Boring
drbreakwell28 November 2021
Warning: Spoilers
The beginning was lame. A 4x4 truck cant drive through an inch of "snow?" And again Hallmark tries to make green trees and bushes look like they have snow. Why can't they forget the snow. There are places that decorate houses without ever getting snow. This movie follows the same plot as a previous cooking contest Hallmark movie using pumpkins. The movie is a time waster background movie to "watch" while doing a chore. There has only been a couple of worthwhile movies from Hallmark this season. It's about time Hallmark stop mass producing movies and concentrate on quality over quantity. The murder solving movies were the best quality movies by Hallmark. They should stick with that format.
Loved it- one of my favs!
txharrington2 December 2021
Light hearted, good acting, fun, lovely Christmas movie. It's more about friendship and making peace with our friends. The story was sweet and the romance was easy and believable. The acting and chemistry was at an all time high for me. Maybe it's bc they are just too cute!! Would watch again and I don't like watching things twice!!!
The great Christmas light fight Hatfields vs McCoys style.
cgvsluis7 January 2022
"Anybody can string a bunch of lights and enter a computer code. Where is the soul in that?"-Frank
I feel exactly the same way about those computerized light displays with their mega trees and pixels...boring! Give me displays with meaning, interest, history, personality any day.
"That spark of joy in their eyes. All because of something we've created."-Frank
"They were a great partnership."-Arlene "We brought out the best in each other."-Bill
Two families are brought together to compete in a town Christmas light competition and this year the stakes are higher, a $50,000 cash prize. The patriarchs, Bill and Frank, of two families used to run a business together until Frank accused Bill of putting quantity over quality. Bill was so offended he dissolved the partnership immediately and the two started their own businesses. Their kids, including Grace and Tony, used to be friends but have become strangers. With there families pitted against each other, their initial amicable reunion turns contentious.
Bill expanded his business and may have bitten off more than he can chew, making this year's competition monetary reward even more important. The competition is important for Frank as he hasn't competed for the last seven years and feels like he has a lot to prove.
Meanwhile, Grace and Tony keep being drawn together...and discover their moms have secretly maintained their friendship this whole time...meeting clandestinely and taking an annual trip together. Inspired by their moms' secret relationship, Tony volunteers to put his MBA to work reviewing Bill's financials secretly.
Frank confesses to Tony how much he gets into his head and how that prevents him from being able to execute his plans.
"A real partner will value all of your opinions. Even if sometimes it may be wrong."-Bill
"Mutual embarrassment kind of tears down the walls."-Tony.
"That spark of joy in their eyes. All because of something we've created."-Frank
"They were a great partnership."-Arlene "We brought out the best in each other."-Bill
Two families are brought together to compete in a town Christmas light competition and this year the stakes are higher, a $50,000 cash prize. The patriarchs, Bill and Frank, of two families used to run a business together until Frank accused Bill of putting quantity over quality. Bill was so offended he dissolved the partnership immediately and the two started their own businesses. Their kids, including Grace and Tony, used to be friends but have become strangers. With there families pitted against each other, their initial amicable reunion turns contentious.
Bill expanded his business and may have bitten off more than he can chew, making this year's competition monetary reward even more important. The competition is important for Frank as he hasn't competed for the last seven years and feels like he has a lot to prove.
Meanwhile, Grace and Tony keep being drawn together...and discover their moms have secretly maintained their friendship this whole time...meeting clandestinely and taking an annual trip together. Inspired by their moms' secret relationship, Tony volunteers to put his MBA to work reviewing Bill's financials secretly.
Frank confesses to Tony how much he gets into his head and how that prevents him from being able to execute his plans.
"A real partner will value all of your opinions. Even if sometimes it may be wrong."-Bill
"Mutual embarrassment kind of tears down the walls."-Tony.
Spirits that could have been much brighter
TheLittleSongbird26 December 2021
Expectations were mixed here for 'Making Spirits Bright'. Taylor Cole has always been inconsistent for me, in some roles she is charming, in others she's too icy. Am less familiar with Carlo Marks, but what has been seen of him has been pretty amiable if not mind-blowing. Was a bit mixed on the premise, with it not being novel territory but did like that it did try to do something different with the feuding. Kind of like Romeo and Juliet or Hatfields and McCoys set at Christmas.
'Making Spirits Bright' as far as the 2021 Hallmark Christmas films go is somewhere around middle of the pack. Meaning that it's watchable and inoffensive but also unexceptional and nothing out of the ordinary, with some good things but also some things that came off a bit ehh. Nothing is inherently awful here, it's never on the same level of for example Paul Greene's truly awful character in 'Christmas CEO', but not an awful lot amazed at the same time.
There are good things here. Cole does not come over as an ice queen and is instead quite engaging, with her character not being too perfect or having exaggerated flaws. Marks is also appealing, looking relaxed and not overplaying or under-acting. Their chemistry, while low key, is sweet, natural and is definitely there, the change not being too fast as it could easily have been with this type of story.
It looks good, some lovely scenery here as usual and loved the lights, which reminded me fondly of the annual Christmas parade that went through our town for charity. The music is pleasantly festive and the placement is just about right. Some of the supporting cast are solid, primarily the parents. Did like the sister relationship, which had a lot of heart.
Having said all of this, the supporting cast did vary. Was also not a fan of the friend character, who came over as obnoxious and over-zealous. The dialogue generally could have been tighter and been more natural. The cheese and schmaltz can be a little much. The story has charming and touching moments, but generally felt too low key and safe with not an awful lot new. The business subplot was too much of a filler distraction that didn't have that much to it.
Overall, just like my expectations mixed feelings here. 5/10.
'Making Spirits Bright' as far as the 2021 Hallmark Christmas films go is somewhere around middle of the pack. Meaning that it's watchable and inoffensive but also unexceptional and nothing out of the ordinary, with some good things but also some things that came off a bit ehh. Nothing is inherently awful here, it's never on the same level of for example Paul Greene's truly awful character in 'Christmas CEO', but not an awful lot amazed at the same time.
There are good things here. Cole does not come over as an ice queen and is instead quite engaging, with her character not being too perfect or having exaggerated flaws. Marks is also appealing, looking relaxed and not overplaying or under-acting. Their chemistry, while low key, is sweet, natural and is definitely there, the change not being too fast as it could easily have been with this type of story.
It looks good, some lovely scenery here as usual and loved the lights, which reminded me fondly of the annual Christmas parade that went through our town for charity. The music is pleasantly festive and the placement is just about right. Some of the supporting cast are solid, primarily the parents. Did like the sister relationship, which had a lot of heart.
Having said all of this, the supporting cast did vary. Was also not a fan of the friend character, who came over as obnoxious and over-zealous. The dialogue generally could have been tighter and been more natural. The cheese and schmaltz can be a little much. The story has charming and touching moments, but generally felt too low key and safe with not an awful lot new. The business subplot was too much of a filler distraction that didn't have that much to it.
Overall, just like my expectations mixed feelings here. 5/10.
Pleasant way to pass time
dsklodginski18 December 2021
I almost didn't watch this based on the negative reviews but it was pleasant enough to watch. I liked the seemingly easy compatibility of the leads and the other family members seems genuine, The tech lighting guy was annoying as he was meant to be - I'm glad I don't have lights like that in my neighborhood. I don't really pay any attention to the snow situation that seems to bother others. I would agree that the subplot with the business partner seemed unnecessary.
I'll be gaslighting for Christmas
MickyG33330 November 2022
7.2 stars.
This is the simple story of two families that were very close many years ago, but fell apart due to misunderstandings and hurt feelings between the fathers who had been best friends.
The result is that both dads have been gaslighting and berating each other the past couple decades. This story is a tragedy from the start. The wives and children don't hold the same bitter feelings, but they primarily keep their distance in order to placate the patriarchs.
As usual Taylor Cole (Grace) is radiant and bright, she's what makes the spirits bright in this film. Carlo Marks is great too, haven't seen him as a leading male yet, now exactly 42 movies into my Hallmark Christmas binge.
And there's more gaslighting, Grace's "best" friend has been gaslighting her for several months now, and when Grace points it out, of course it falls on deaf ears, and sorta blows up in her face.
SOAP BOX ALERT:
I can relate so well to this insidious form of bullying. This aspect of the film touches my heart in a familiar, real, and painful way. In my opinion, gaslighting disguises itself, and subtly becomes an accepted form of persecution. Machiavellian to it's core, it's more politically correct, difficult to define, more challenging to identify.
For the edification of the younglings in the audience, I suggest you parents allow your children to watch this and point out to them the injurious effects of this behavior.
This is the simple story of two families that were very close many years ago, but fell apart due to misunderstandings and hurt feelings between the fathers who had been best friends.
The result is that both dads have been gaslighting and berating each other the past couple decades. This story is a tragedy from the start. The wives and children don't hold the same bitter feelings, but they primarily keep their distance in order to placate the patriarchs.
As usual Taylor Cole (Grace) is radiant and bright, she's what makes the spirits bright in this film. Carlo Marks is great too, haven't seen him as a leading male yet, now exactly 42 movies into my Hallmark Christmas binge.
And there's more gaslighting, Grace's "best" friend has been gaslighting her for several months now, and when Grace points it out, of course it falls on deaf ears, and sorta blows up in her face.
SOAP BOX ALERT:
I can relate so well to this insidious form of bullying. This aspect of the film touches my heart in a familiar, real, and painful way. In my opinion, gaslighting disguises itself, and subtly becomes an accepted form of persecution. Machiavellian to it's core, it's more politically correct, difficult to define, more challenging to identify.
For the edification of the younglings in the audience, I suggest you parents allow your children to watch this and point out to them the injurious effects of this behavior.
It was ok
LtlHippo23 December 2021
I've seen Taylor in so many movies, I've always liked her with shorter hair. The long hair seemed off to me. Decent acting, storyline was so so. Not my favorite but at least the 3 regulars weren't on (Lacey, Danica and Candice) and Barbara Niven wasn't the mom again.
Truly Terrible
johne-5595210 December 2021
I watch a lot (most?) of these holiday movies. This was one of the worst this year. Completely ridiculous and poorly done. With these movies you want to find a character to relate to. This was filled with uninteresting and disagreeable people. I turned it off after 15 minutes.
Feuding families
jewhitmer252 December 2021
Taylor Cole and Carlo Marks were great together, great chemistry. Usually Carlo gives me the impression that he is working a scene with his older sister, as an actor he is showing a lot more maturity now, good to see.
Just a word or two about Wade's light displays, why aren't they blowing every transformer within a 3 county area. Clearly a seizure waiting to happen. After the first two minutes this kind of display would be very annoying.
Garry Chalk as Bill Ryan, he is such a good actor, always does a stupendous job playing the Dad, happy to see him getting a little more of the action.
The family feuding got to be a little much at times, the film could have used a lot less feud and more teamwork.
My Advice: Watch the movie, it's worth it,
Just a word or two about Wade's light displays, why aren't they blowing every transformer within a 3 county area. Clearly a seizure waiting to happen. After the first two minutes this kind of display would be very annoying.
Garry Chalk as Bill Ryan, he is such a good actor, always does a stupendous job playing the Dad, happy to see him getting a little more of the action.
The family feuding got to be a little much at times, the film could have used a lot less feud and more teamwork.
My Advice: Watch the movie, it's worth it,
Entertaining Christmas Decoration Family Feud. One of the best 2021 Hallmark Christmas Movies.
allmoviesfan5 October 2023
Warning: Spoilers
Two families - call them the Montagues and Capulets of the small town - square off for a Christmas decoration battle. The two families have been feuding for as long as anyone can remember. It's a cold war, and and there is no room for fraternisation with the enemy.
Which is a problem for Taylor Cole's Grace and Carlo Marks' Tony, who are growing increasingly attracted to one another, even as their families prepare for another Christmas of competition. Until disaster strikes and the unthinkable happens and they must work together.
Cole and Marks (who I've always enjoyed watching on Chesapeake Shores) have good chemistry together and really carry the film, both likeable characters. A strong supporting cast, too, and, of course, the sets are perfectly festive.
The feuding families story, Romeo and Juliet-style, was an interesting twist. Of course we know how it's going to end. They all end the same, but that's fine. A bit of fun and a nice, heartwarming finale is all you really want from a movie like this. 'Making Spirits Bright' delivers in spades. One of 2021's best.
Which is a problem for Taylor Cole's Grace and Carlo Marks' Tony, who are growing increasingly attracted to one another, even as their families prepare for another Christmas of competition. Until disaster strikes and the unthinkable happens and they must work together.
Cole and Marks (who I've always enjoyed watching on Chesapeake Shores) have good chemistry together and really carry the film, both likeable characters. A strong supporting cast, too, and, of course, the sets are perfectly festive.
The feuding families story, Romeo and Juliet-style, was an interesting twist. Of course we know how it's going to end. They all end the same, but that's fine. A bit of fun and a nice, heartwarming finale is all you really want from a movie like this. 'Making Spirits Bright' delivers in spades. One of 2021's best.
Not bright enough at the time.
adamjohns-425755 January 2024
Making Spirits Bright (2021) -
I might give this one another try next Christmas, but I just couldn't give it the time this year.
Carlo Marks was cute, but not enough of a draw for me to carry on when I had so many films still to watch after New Year's Day and less enthusiasm for the genre than I would have done throughout November and December.
I couldn't see that there was going to be anything wrong with this film as another Holiday Lights competition brought two lovers together, but it also didn't appear to be anything new, so while it might do nicely at another time, there wasn't enough to keep me watching now,
Unscored as Unfinished.
I might give this one another try next Christmas, but I just couldn't give it the time this year.
Carlo Marks was cute, but not enough of a draw for me to carry on when I had so many films still to watch after New Year's Day and less enthusiasm for the genre than I would have done throughout November and December.
I couldn't see that there was going to be anything wrong with this film as another Holiday Lights competition brought two lovers together, but it also didn't appear to be anything new, so while it might do nicely at another time, there wasn't enough to keep me watching now,
Unscored as Unfinished.
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