"Mistletoe Over Manhattan" is a rarity among Hallmark's Christmas ovure. This Christmas film actually features Mrs. Clause, Santa, elves and several other Christmas elements in major roles. A major criticism many have about modern Christmas films Hallmark shows is that they are just romcoms that have a certain theme. Others can be family films that take place at Christmas again lacking a reason to specifically be set at Christmas.
This film is different and features a very modern, overworked Santa trying to program electronics for modern kids. "You need an engineering degree," he says. It's funny and a great rebuttal to the standard wooden toys you often see in Santa's workshop. We really don't see the workshop and what we do see is a dark, mechanical place. It's dreary. Santa also has been neglecting his home life. Mrs. Clause sets off to New York where she and her Nick had a memorable date perhaps as a way to connect with her memories.
She quickly befriends a policeman and serves as his babysitter. The policeman and his wife are divorcing ostensibly because he works too hard. His wife does too. You don't get the feeling that his work is what's really bothering the couple. The policeman seems defeated. He doesn't seem to care about his marriage falling apart or that his wife is openly dating her boss. The children, especially the daughter are disillusioned by the situation.
Mrs. Clause helps bring the children together with her wisdom and kindness. She confides in the wife. Eventually, Santa shows up looking for her. Thankfully, Santa doesn't get involved. Mrs. Clause as portrayed by Tedde Moore, is vivacious, and I wanted to see her succeed. The family, as a whole, are likeable people. She is effectively a mediator bringing together everyone who can't communicate effectively.
The film isn't without plot holes and contrivances. Thankfully, none of them take away from the enjoyment I experienced. The film is really dedicated to the idea that family should be together at Christmas and is worth fighting to preserve. By bringing another family together, Mrs. Clause inspires Santa to finally take time for them.
This film is no holiday classic but it's a staple for me whenever it airs.
This film is different and features a very modern, overworked Santa trying to program electronics for modern kids. "You need an engineering degree," he says. It's funny and a great rebuttal to the standard wooden toys you often see in Santa's workshop. We really don't see the workshop and what we do see is a dark, mechanical place. It's dreary. Santa also has been neglecting his home life. Mrs. Clause sets off to New York where she and her Nick had a memorable date perhaps as a way to connect with her memories.
She quickly befriends a policeman and serves as his babysitter. The policeman and his wife are divorcing ostensibly because he works too hard. His wife does too. You don't get the feeling that his work is what's really bothering the couple. The policeman seems defeated. He doesn't seem to care about his marriage falling apart or that his wife is openly dating her boss. The children, especially the daughter are disillusioned by the situation.
Mrs. Clause helps bring the children together with her wisdom and kindness. She confides in the wife. Eventually, Santa shows up looking for her. Thankfully, Santa doesn't get involved. Mrs. Clause as portrayed by Tedde Moore, is vivacious, and I wanted to see her succeed. The family, as a whole, are likeable people. She is effectively a mediator bringing together everyone who can't communicate effectively.
The film isn't without plot holes and contrivances. Thankfully, none of them take away from the enjoyment I experienced. The film is really dedicated to the idea that family should be together at Christmas and is worth fighting to preserve. By bringing another family together, Mrs. Clause inspires Santa to finally take time for them.
This film is no holiday classic but it's a staple for me whenever it airs.