Review of The Mistletoe Promise

This particular Hallmark movie is a cut above the rest. It is well directed, well cast, well acted and well written ... It's a unique premise, from a book I believe, and it's a delight to have something very different to watch unfold for a change. All the characters are very likable and there's a sweet chemistry between the two lead actors that makes them even more believable. The storyline and the couples' interactions aren't forced (as they so often are in a Hallmark movie)... and while they try to stay true to their "Promise" they don't seem pressured to perform a "dating" dance that would take them beyond its limits so it all feels very real. Two people, unable to enjoy Christmas for their own reasons, meet and form a contract (a Promise) to help each other get through the difficult holiday period and each help the other achieve their goal. I really enjoy Hallmark movies but lately their themes have been getting extremely repetitive and the characters and interactions predictable. Not this one ... I really wasn't sure how it was going to work out in the end and I cared. It does seem mandatory that "figgy pudding" is mentioned or sung about in every Hallmark Christmas movie and, in this one aspect, The Mistletoe Promise is no exception. Otherwise it truly is and well worth watching.