User Reviews

The title for this film is somewhat clever from the plot, but otherwise, "Christmas with a Capital C" has very little original. With Christmas movies being made every year, originality in the plot is quite important. Some of the acting is good while most of it isn't.

The story has some well-worn small plots. One is about a school days feud and later reconciliation. Another is about a modern battle of secularism with religion. Here, it's over the display of a traditional Christmas scene on public property, because it is connected to religion. There's a third smaller plot about two young teens - a boy and a girl, competing and discovering mutual attraction for one another.

But with all of this, the story just isn't very interesting. The screenplay is weak and choppy. The actions of the townsfolk seem forced or contrived. The character of Mitch Bright is stiff and strange in the smugness that Daniel Baldwin gives it. On the other hand, the Greg Reed role by Brad Stine is over the top goofy in his staged belligerence. And, the teens aren't at all convincing.

Ted McGinley as Dan Reed and Nancy Stafford as his wife, Kristen, are the only roles done well and that seem like real people. The film was shot entirely in Seward, Alaska. For the scenic shots, the movie is worth five stars.

First of all: I'm not a person of faith or belief. That means I pretty much abstain from organized religion and spiritualism in general. Having said that, the impact faith has had on human society has always polarized people (excuse the pun). That's undeniable.

I approached watching this film with the "aw, what the heck, I'm bored, let's see if this film adds any substance to the argument of how to greet people at the end of the year". Surprisingly, it did.

Despite the fact that Brad Stine's character was so annoying that - after awhile - I muted him anytime he came on screen (subtitles are the way to go), the acting was pretty typical for your low budget 90 minute Christmas flick. That is, with my apologies to Ted McGinley. I can't get him out of his "Married...with Children" role in my head. Truthfully, I don't think I want to. Overall the acting left much to be desired. The argument about public funds paying for a decoration that would have spiritual meaning to fewer people than the population represents is a tired one.

Nevertheless, there were a few refreshing things in this movie. 1) The pastor wasn't a pulpit-based "fire and brimstone" motivated individual with tunnel vision. He spoke with fairness and respect. 2) The scenery. Oh, man, the scenery. I have to hand it to the cinematographers for allowing the absolute freezing beauty of Alaska be a main character. If only I liked the cold more. 3) There's probably a reason why we see Danny Baldwin in this flick instead of Stephen Baldwin: it's not a film that has a 'born-again or irredeemable' feel to it. 4) If I were to read a biography of the individual that inspired New Testament Christianity instead of The Bible, Jesus would be described as a man who loved and was in service to his people without ceasing. Period. That's a big part of the sentiment the film is trying to portray. I'm good with that. Many Christians are Christians who aim to be inspired by this behavior. Note I said many, not all.

I gave it a 3 because the old argument we've heard too much about already is rehashed, the acting was forced, the plot was predictable, and I fell asleep halfway thru it and had to watch it later. The script was very disengaging. But the refreshing parts made up for a good portion of that.

I will say that Christmas With A Capital C has one undeniable value. If you want to know the kind of place that spawned the Palin family and inflicted them on the world than this film is a must. Wasilla where Sarah Palin was mayor was just the kind of place you see here with Ted McGinley as chief executive.

This looks like a most homogeneous community when McGinley's old rival Dan Baldwin comes back. He's seen the great big world outside and made a small fortune doing it. For some reason he's decided to be the Grinch and is starting a lawsuit to get the nativity scene removed. The 'war' on Christmas is a big theme in the evangelical circuit where this played.

Baldwin does have ulterior motives and they are discovered, of course. I only thought that Stephen Baldwin went the Christian route. I've always said Thanksgivings are most interesting when the Baldwins gather. Now more than ever.

Nancy Stafford late of Matlock plays McGinley's wife and part of the reason for Baldwin's Grinch like behavior is as always beautiful. Christmas With A Capital C is not overtly preachy and could be enjoyed in a theater as well as a church.

Awful, simply awful. The atheist who returns to the town after 20 years, seems like an embittered and angry man, out on a personal vendetta against the heroic Christian mayor.The premise is that the mayor is building (and using some city funds) to build a stand outside of the town's city hall, for Christmas. There will be Christian decorations displayed along with more secular Christmas decorations. So this evil atheist type files an injunction to stop work on this stand.

Now, atheists aren't the only people who support keeping government and religion untangled, many Christians (though usually not evangelical types) also favor that. Atheists aren't out on personal vendettas against some Christian mayor or politician when we do so. Also, the "Merry Christmas" banner is moved because of this injunction. Frankly, no atheist has ever objected to a "Merry Christmas" sign, even in front of a courthouse.

In fact, I don't know if any church/state or atheist group would even object to this stand, unless it solely has Christian symbols. Atheists just want neutrality or at least, an open forum. Have Christian symbols such as a nativity scene, fine, but allow a display of the Flying Spaghetti Monster.

The Christian mayor in one scene recites the free exercise clause of religion, which for some reason makes this evil atheist type, say touché. That seems to imply the atheist knows he is violating the free exercise rights of the residents, but there is of course no free exercise right to have the government put up a display, even if not centered around Christian images solely.

This movie was produced by people who seem to have never met an actual atheist in their lives. Full of fear and straw man. If I could give a negative star, I would.

Most offensive piece of crap I've ever seen. Why didn't they just cast the Palin family and call it a day. Some of My favorite lines..."what we have to include all religions now! A menorah and whatever symbol Kwanzaa has.." and "98% of America is Christian so I will continue to say merry Christmas"

I loved Baldwin's character and couldn't agree with his viewpoints more...turns out he is the scrooge character because he does not want to be MADE to celebrate Christmas.

This movie makes an ass out of itself, the actors in the film, and Christians in general. Terrible acting...terrible story...and terribly offensive.

In an America that has an increasingly diverse population, it is astounding that people do not GET IT. Jews, Hindus, Buddhists, Muslims, and atheists all pay taxes and are citizens. Seasons greetings is appropriate. Merry Christmas and religious displays paid for with my tax money, not OK. Unless the city also wants to fund Hanukkah, Quanza, Winter Solstice and Ramadan displays as well.

In five minutes of watching, the mayor quickly displays a stubborn streak that can be a disaster in a public official. He mayor completely ignores all his civic responsibilities to serve his private believes. Being set in Alaska, I guess this explains Sarah Palin.

Why is it that Christians don't seem to get the long-settled Constitutional issue of not putting religious displays on public property? And that said issue doesn't affect private property, including privately-owned stores? The very premise of this movie is based on a lie. It doesn't matter if it's a "tradition" to put a nativity scene on the grounds of city hall; the Supreme Court ruled decades ago that it violated the First Amendment. Also, not even the most hardcore atheist is "offended" by Christmas; pointing out that it's unconstitutional is NOT the same as being offended.

In the film's defense, though, it does feature a drug-addled Daniel Baldwin attempting to act, Ted McGinley acting out every "regular Christian guy" trope and Brad Stine acting like a crazy homeless guy. I assume he's just aplying himself.

Rather than actually watching this movie, I suggest watching Hugo & Jake's review of it on You Tube. They explain the issues in a much more entertaining fashion than I.

Even the main character comes off as abrasive, because you can't be a nice and identifiable character who also says "The holiday season can only be all about me and my beliefs and traditions". It's propaganda, plain and simple.

What in the name of cheez-its were they thinking? You have to be trying to make a movie this bad. But the fact that some people like this movie is interesting to say the least. In this garbage, an atheist guy comes back to his old town and tries to "ruin" Christmas for his old high school rival . His plan? Take down the nativity scene in front of the church for some reason. Quick question... why does he still have a grudge? It's been probably many years since they were in high school, just get over it dude. Throughout this movie, he continues to jump the shark. Heck, he even calls the police because a 6 year-old was singing in town. This caused me to laugh harder than ever before, I swear this dumb movie makes zero sense. Spoilers I guess ahead, but who even cares? In the end the town feels bad for him and line up at his house and burn it down. The End. Jk, they instead help him by giving him goods. Heh? Didn't see that comin'. And so, the huge bully is stopped because of love, cool, whatever. If you like this, whatever, it just makes me cringe.

Christmas with a Capital C is a mean spirited film that exists to bash people who have different views as the filmmakers. The film is about Mayor Dan Reed (Ted McGinley) and his family including his very annoying brother played by Brad Stine getting offended by people saying things other than Merry Christmas. His past rival played by Danial Baldwin returns to town to run for Mayor with his political correctness rubbing off on the town. Dan gets offended by all of this including a scene where he gets upset because he may have to put Hanukkah or Kwanzaa decorations up in town. This film is anti Hanukkah or Kwanzaa. Its a mean film that shows the holidays wrapped in a persecution complex package. What is to like here? Its a hard film to watch because of its stupidity and mean spirited agenda. It even shows horrible stand up from Brad Stine to a routine that everyone should just say Merry Christmas. Just say what you want, celebrate Christmas how you like and best not to watch horrible films like Christmas with a Capital C.

I loved this movie... The trailer does not give justice to the true message in the story. Christians can compromise, but not on their beliefs. All people, of every religion, are encouraged to watch this movie all of the way through with open eyes. I believe the movie gives equal views from both sides. However, I must say, I am a Christian & I was very touched by the movie. It is an Excellent movie, and not just one that gives a Holiday message, but a message that should be reflected in the Christian life daily. Love others as Christ loves us. Be tolerant, compassionate, and giving. Those who comment on the politics of the movie are missing the entire point. It has nothing to do with politics. Politics are a medium for the true message being heard. I recorded this movie on my DVR and have watched it at least three times in the last two weeks. It is touching, and a lot can be learned by both "sides". The writer, Andrea Nasfell, has captured true heart felt feelings in her writings, and they are portrayed by the actors with true conviction. TWO THUMBS UP!!!!

BEWARE OF BOGUS REVIEWS. SOME REVIEWERS HAVE ONLY ONE REVIEW. WHEN ITS A POSITIVE REVIEW THAT TELLS ME THEY WERE INVOLVED WITH THE PRODUCTION. IF ITS A NEGATIVE REVIEW THEN THEY MIGHT HAVE A GRUDGE AGAINST THAT PRODUCTION. NOW I HAVE REVIEWED OVER 200 Christmas MOVIES. I HAVE NO AGENDA. I AM FARE ABOUT THESE FILMS.

This film is not a love it or hate it film. What this film is passable entertainment with a lesson about??

In this film Christmas has always been an exceptional time of love and tradition in the small town of Trapper Falls, Alaska. Hometown of Mayor Dan Reed (Ted McGinley) looks forward to each year with enthusiasm. Together with his brother Greg (Brad Stine), they dedicate time away from their adventure tour company to drape the town is Christmas cheer. When Dan's old high school rival Mitch Bright (Daniel Baldwin), a mean-spirited and embittered militant atheist returns home after 20 years, Dan is immediately suspicious. Mitch is a highly successful big city lawyer who has never wanted anything to do with Trapper Falls. The rivalry re-ignites when the frustrated Mitch takes offense to what he sees as the town's violation of his rights. Mitch wants the Nativity scene removed from the front of City hall and the word Christmas switched to Happy Holidays on all signs. Fifty years of tradition are now challenged not by an outsider but a former member of the community. As the conflict escalates it goes beyond one person's opinion but magnifies into an entire town problem when Mitch enters into the mayoral race to have Dan replaced.

Now I am very liberal. I liked this film. Its not great but it is sweet. The motivations of everyone in this film is understandable. Now people who made this film had an agenda to say that there is a war on Christmas which is not true.

"Retailers Love Christmas". I worked all over the USA and have always said "Merry Christmas" and nobody said "I shouldn't" and no customer ever complained.

Now my Christians readers would you get mad if a Jewish Person said to you "Happy Hanukkah"? I doubt it. Normal people would say "Thank you" or "Same to you".

Happy Holidays came about only because it was cheaper for stores to have a window painted with just one message and no re-paint for Hanukkah. That's all. When I worked at stores I never got in trouble for saying "Merry Christmas".

Now back to the film. AS film the plot is passable. the film moved quickly along. The film has a conclusion that I find almost laughable but the message isn't laughable.

Small Children will be bored. Some adults too. But what comes through is that "Christmas is a time where we should open our minds and our hearts"

I really enjoyed the movie. It doesn't officially come out for awhile, and I think it's too bad. I think it would be well received this Christmas season (2010). A good reminder that there is more to Christmas than just commercialism. I think it would be obvious that there is a Christian theme to the movie, but I think it does a nice job of not being too preachy. It kind of reminds me of a good Halmark flick. Good acting, but not over the top. I will certainly be promoting this film when it comes out! It was inspired by a Christian song by the group Go Fish. I have also seen a preview for the movie on Youtube. Check it out!

The message of 'Christmas with a Capital C' was timely and important. Where many Christmas movies are heartwarming, this program presented definable ways to deal with those who call Christians simple, narrow-minded, and ignorant but who themselves are mean-spirited, arrogant and intolerant. I thought using the example of how Christ treated others as a guide for these townspeople really embodied the spirit of Christmas.

Acting was solid in the leads a little weak in the supporting players. Daniel Baldwin was great in his role. I'm sorry to say, I know people just like him.

On the whole, I thought this was one of the better movies this season.

This movie was good. Nothing wrong with a good natured family film.

I see many atheists are bum-hurt over the movie message about belief and miracles. What I have come to realize is atheists are the most intolerant folks on the planet. They especially hate Christians but some reason love Islam.

This movie had a message of hope and has a family theme. It has the familiar TV characters and if you do not like a Christian family movie, avoid it. It's funny that atheists preach tolerance but if anyone dares oppose their view, their proverbial fangs and character fault shows.

Good movie for what it is 7 out of 10. This movie shows the follies of non-believers and why hope is better than none.

I absolutely adore this movie for the meaning is very deep and important. Even though Christians are constantly persecuted, do not repay evil with evil!! It's a good thing to practice even if you're not a Christian. I love the cast, the setting (absolutely beautiful) and the entire premise of the movie! Well done cast & crew.

I haven't seen this movie, but I have to comment on the others reviews here. I hate how people are so quick to criticize and become "offended" at every little thing they can get their hands on these days. Christmas may have started as a Christian holiday, but now it is a secular holiday. It's Hanukkah, Kwanza, Christmas, and every other winter gift giving season in one. There are a lot of people of every faith that celebrate Christmas. It's a time to set aside to be nice to each other, spread a little more love than the rest of the year, give and get gifts that say "you're special to someone" and generally feel better than the rest of the year. There's not a lot to feel nice about these days, and the fact that people attack the celebration of Christmas because it happened once to be a Christian holiday is abhorrent. It didn't even start as a Christian holiday. It used to be a pagan holiday and was turned into a day to celebrate Christ's birth because it was convenient for the church because everyone was celebrating at that time anyway. It has changed again. Ask almost any child who they think of when they think of Christmas and they won't say Jesus, they'll say Santa Claus. I would say you should be ashamed of yourselves for denigrating something that should make everyone feel better about everyone else, but it's Christmas time, so I'll just say Merry Christmas to you all, regardless of religion, and consider this message strongly the next time you think about badmouthing Christmas.

Fairly cute Christmas movie, with the rarity of actually involving Christmas as a religious holiday.

Leading cast is good, production values decent, scenery beautiful.

Story-wise, it's How the Grinch Stole Christmas, updated and moved to the 49th state. There's even a Cindy Lou Who.

Overall, not bad. Worth a look.

Ted McGinley v. Daniel Baldwin in a 1st Amendment showdown over a Nativity scene being displayed on public property. Baldwin, of course, is the "bad guy" against Christmas. He is, like many, changing the 1st Amendment to how he sees fit: "Putting the Nativity on public property establishes a state religion." No, it doesn't because no one is forcing anything on you under any kind of punishment for not taking part. Anyway, a very good Christmas film with excellent production value compared to endless slew of Made-for-TV Christmas movies made every year. This one rises above and filmed in Alaska it is definitely a breath of fresh air! The message is fantastic and it would be nice if people would watch this with an open mind rather than pretend it's all garbage because it most certainly is not. One of the best Christmas movies there is.

7.5 / 10 stars

--Zoooma, a Kat Pirate Screener