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Straight-to-DVD releases increase holiday spirit, spread Christmas joy |
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Tuesday, 06 December 2005 |
 | Amanda Fowler
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If you’re looking for a Christmas movie to
get you in the holiday spirit but are tired of the classics you’re
forced to see each season, there are a few straight-to-video releases
that may be worth a rent.
“Noel” stars a powerful lineup: Susan Sarandon, Paul Walker, Penelope
Cruz, Alan Arkin and Robin Williams in an unaccredited role.
Williams turning up in the movie is surprising and the fact that his
role goes without credit will be a stumbling point for the film’s
popularity. The movie is set at Christmastime in New York City and
looks at several different story lines.
The main plot line focuses on Rose (Sarandon), an older lady who spends
her Christmas
caring for her hospital-bound mother. The season doesn’t
look too promising for her, but Rose has a few romantic encounters to
spice it up, including a date with the office hottie.
The second story looks at Mike (Walker), a police officer who is
preparing to wed fiancé Nina (Cruz), but his jealous personality is
beginning to drive her away. He also has to deal with Artie (Arkin), a
waiter at a local restaurant, who thinks he and Mike may have some sort
of connection from their pasts: Artie believes Mike is the
reincarnation of his dead wife.
There is also Jules (Marcus Thomas) whose happiest memory of Christmas is the one he spent in the emergency room as a child.
All of this sounds reminiscent of “Love Actually” and is, somewhat, but is not nearly as enjoyable.
The story lines of “Noel” become intertwined but not as masterfully or humorously as “Love Actually.”
“Noel” is a likable movie, but there are a few holes in the plot that
are neglected at the end.
Still, it is worth renting for the holiday
season.
“The 12 Dogs of Christmas” is another straight-to-video release that seems promising.
Emma (Jordon-Claire Green), a 12-year-old girl, lives in a town in
which dogs are not allowed.
She goes on a mission to save the dogs and
change the minds of the citizens by putting on a Christmas pageant
where the stars are not only children, but dogs.
So, as you’re thumbing through the old standby holiday movies, consider
making the trek to the local video store to rent these newer ones.
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