Coming Christmas Film Reviews Free! Fun for the Whole Family including Granma!!

  Miracle at Christmas Comes at the Behest of a Herald

By Will Burns

The film opens on Christmas morning with Mary (Erin Bethea), a mother lying in bed, despondent and reluctant to celebrate the holiday. Her children protest, urging her to join the joy of gift-giving, so her husband, James (Jason Burkey), goes to fetch her. Using his powers of persuasion, James gently urges Mary to pull herself together for the kids' sake.

The children first present their parents with a thoughtful gift: a framed picture of them as newlyweds, which brings a tear to Mary’s eye. James follows this with tickets for a holiday package for two. However, when Mary reads the date, she becomes distraught. The family had received a grim prognosis from the doctor—James’s illness gave him an eighteen-month life expectancy, making the holiday plans seem tragically out of reach.

While James and the children leave for church, Mary stays behind, ostensibly to prepare Christmas dinner for the extended family. At church, James is introduced to Harry (Brett Varvel), a stranger from out of town with no one to celebrate Christmas with. James compliments Harry on his singing, inquiring if he is a professional. Harry’s impeccable manners, anachronistic vocabulary, and almost too-good-to-be-true kindness make James wonder if the man is even human.

                                             

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The Miracle Begins

When Harry accepts the invitation to join the family, the miracle truly begins. Upon being introduced to Mary’s brother, Peter (James Pilachosky), and his Hispanic girlfriend, Gabby (Jacquelin Yunez), Harry tries out his Spanish on Gabby with impeccable fluency. Everyone is in awe when Harry speaks Spanish as flawlessly as he does English.

If that isn’t enough, he proves himself an able quarterback when the family heads to the yard for a football scrimmage. Presenting himself as a novice, everyone is shocked when he throws the football "out of the park," setting off a car alarm when the ball strikes the windshield of a car in the parking lot.

Tensions rise in the kitchen when Mary starts squabbling with Peter. When her brother defends himself, Mary snaps, blaming her lack of holiday spirit on her father’s death and her husband’s grim prognosis. Fearing she will soon be left a widow with three children, she springs the news of her pregnancy upon everyone in a surprising outburst. Realizing her behavior has gotten out of hand, she soon initiates a "hug-fest" with Peter, her mom, husband, and children.

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The Herald's Farewell

No sooner is the hug-fest over than five carolers come to the door. They sing a touching rendition of "Star of Wonder, Star of Night" and "Joy to the World" and then depart. Mary expresses the wish that they had stayed to sing her deceased husband’s favorite, "Hark the Herald Angels Sing." They head inside only to see Harry already starting his flawless rendition of the beloved Christmas hymn. How apropos, since Harry is revealed to be an angelic herald after all.

With the miraculous events of the day improving the family’s outlook, they ask after Harry, only to be told that he left, leaving behind a card for Mary. When Mary reads it, she is instructed to go into the other room to fetch a "memento" he has left for her. When she sees the broken newlywed photo that she had accidentally damaged, now fully restored and perfectly intact, she realizes they are privy to yet another miracle. The letter reads:

“I leave you this restored gift as a token, ever to remind you that ours is a mighty God for whom nothing is impossible, including the mending of the broken hearts of those suffering from loss and sorrow. He who sacrificed His son to save the lost will never leave or forsake you.”

Amen.

Christmas for Three' Is a Heartwarming Treat for the Holidays

 Will Burns

This indie film, full of touching moments, is the perfect treat for the holidays.

When young Jason Lancaster (Jasper Burger) tragically loses his parents in an accident, he enters the care of social services. His dedicated social worker, Sophie Walker (Ashley Brinkman), becomes concerned when none of the prospective foster parents seem to be the right fit for him. Sophie discovers that Jason’s parents had chosen Benito (Mario Silva) as the boy's godfather should anything happen to them.

Sophie brings Jason to Benito’s home, dropping the news on him suddenly. Benito, an independent-minded bachelor, is initially reticent to take on such a massive responsibility. However, out of loyalty to Jason’s father—his best friend since school days—Benito is persuaded to adopt the boy, whose cute, likable disposition soon begins to win him over.

Complications and Conflict

Anxious to experience the family bonding he once had, the boy quickly begins playing matchmaker, hoping to lure Sophie into his foster father's life. Though initially embarrassed by Jason’s repetitive refrain, the social worker and the foster parent eventually share a kiss in a private moment.

Matters quickly become complicated, however, because Sophie’s workplace has strict policies against care workers becoming romantically involved with client families. To make matters worse, Sophie is being sexually harassed by her male boss, Aaron Schmidt. Wishing to have Sophie all to himself, Aaron explicitly forbids her from seeing Benito and Jason outside of work.

Fearing for her job security, Sophie tells Benito that the case is officially closed and she won't be able to see them anymore. Seized by bitterness at what he perceives as a personal rejection, Benito takes the news badly, and the couple has a serious fight. Unfortunately, Benito’s harsh words about the situation are overheard and misunderstood by Jason.

          

A Touching Reconciliation

Believing that he is unwanted and feeling abandoned by his deceased parents and grandparents, and now his foster parent and Sophie, Jason runs away and hides out in a shed near Benito’s inherited family home. Frantic, Benito goes into panic mode, desperately searching for the boy. In his desperation, he calls Sophie, who immediately races over to help.

Then, a realization hits Benito: Jason’s father had taught them both how to pick locks when they were boys, and Benito guesses his friend passed on the trick to his son. Luckily, Benito’s instincts prove correct, and he finds Jason hiding inside the shed.

When Jason expresses his profound sadness over repeated instances of abandonment, Benito gently commiserates with the boy. The foster parent and child share a touching moment of bonding, which Sophie happens to witness when she finds them together. The three lonely souls exchange heartfelt apologies and end up in a warm embrace.

Christmas and Comeuppance

On Christmas morning, the new family exchanges gifts. Sophie is deeply touched when Benito and Jason present her with a locket containing their pictures, so she can always carry them close to her heart. When Sophie apologizes for not having a present for Benito, he protests that they have already given him the best gift ever , family.

Meanwhile, furious at being spurned, Sophie’s boss, Aaron, reports her to their director, Midge (Naomi Matsuda), accusing Sophie of breaking the rules by dating her client. Denying the allegation, Sophie becomes outraged, protesting that Aaron has been sexually harassing her ever since he was transferred to their branch office.

Just when we brace for Midge to fire Sophie, Midge suddenly announces that this news, combined with two other complaints from the office party, makes it clear that Aaron is the one to be terminated. Sophie is instead instructed to move into the director’s office she has just received a promotion. The "creep" Aaron retreats with "tail between his legs," having finally received his comeuppance.

We are left wondering how the couple will maintain their relationship while navigating Sophie’s strict office rules, but we can safely guess that the 'Three for Christmas' will soon be the 'Three for a Lifetime.' It’s a sure bet that their New Year's resolution will be a wedding announcement, solidifying their new family. We can only have faith that love will conquer all and make things right at Sophie’s social services office.

‘Angels in the Snow’ Reminds Us about the True Meaning of Giving

By Will Burns

The Mongomerys sleep late on their second day at the winter holiday cabin, when they are roused from

their slumber by frantic banging at the front door. Taking in the scene on the security camera, they realize

their visitors are in distress. The couple go down to answer the door and are greeted by a half frozen

family, who have been caught in a blizzard on their way to the ski resort. Not untouched by the Christmas

spirit, the Montgomerys invite the visitors into the cabin to warm up. The African-American family,

overwhelmed by the hospitality, humbly accept. Insisting the Tuckers change out of their snowy attire,

Judith Mongomery {Kristy Swanson} has their guests conducted to their rooms, while she fetches them

some fresh clothing. Once the Tuckers are cozy and warm, their hosts, not having the heart to send them

out into the cold again, invite them to spend Christmas with their family.

Emily, the youngest, is excited to have playmates to make snow angels with her. With the Christmas tree

naked accept for lights, the children set to making their own ornaments to decorate the tree with, since

Charles Montgomery {Chris Potter} forgot the box of ornaments at home. This only irritates the already

vexed Judith the more, since Joe has spent most of the holiday on call or texting with company

management. What makes this so infuriating is the fact that Dad has expressly forbid anyone else to use

their phone over Christmas. No matter, the homemade ornaments give this Christmas a more authentic

feel as the kids delightedly draw, cut, and stitch their Christmas ornaments.

Following a restful Christmas Eve, the Montgomerys busy themselves changing the name tags on the

presents so they can include the Tuckers in the gift-giving. Already overwhelmed by the sanctuary they’ve

been afforded, the Tuckers are humbled by the Montgomery’s generosity. As the day has brought much to

give thanks for, Joe Tucker {Colin Laurence} invites everyone to participate in a Tucker Christmas

tradition. As the candle is passed around, each recipient must explain what they are most thankful for. To

demonstrate, Joe goes first, expressing gratitude to God for his lovely wife and children, thanking Amy

for giving him a taste of paradise each day he spends with her. When it’s Charles’ turn, he gives thanks for

another good year at the company. Too self-absorbed to see the effect he is having on his family, he makes

a balls of the thanksgiving, prompting Judith to excuse herself in a huff. Aware of Judith’s hurt feelings,

Amy Tucker {Catherine Haggquist} goes after Judith in an attempt to assuage her hurt feelings.

While the storm rages outside, a storm is brewing inside. In fact, the situation culminates in Judith

warning Charles that as soon as the Tuckers leave she’s driving the kids back home without him.

Realizing he’s about to be left out in the cold without a family, Charles repents and does some serious

soul-searching. Distraught, he even sniffles when Jennifer {Lizzy Boys} comes to fetch him for more

holiday festivities. At one point, Charles ventures out in the storm to reflect on where he went wrong

when a pine tree blows over on top of him.

With Dad missing, the family conduct a search, but it’s Alexander {Nick Pucha} who spots his father

under the tree and calls for help. Joe Tucker’s the hero of the hour, raising up the tree so the others can

rescue Charles from the fallen tree. After examining him, Amy, who used to be a nurse, concludes that he

may have a concussion, but has been spared any serious neck or spine injury. The patient passes the night

safely and is joined by his children come morning, who enter the master bedroom to check on his

condition. Emily is, of course, the first to cuddle with Daddy, followed by Jennifer. When it’s revealed

that Alex is the one who found him, Dad is humbled and thanks Alex for saving his life. Alex then joins

in on the hug fest.

When the Tuckers announce their plans to depart, the Montgomerys unanimously protest. Charles draws

Joe to one side, imploring him to stay for one more day. When he explains that Judith has threatened to

leave him as soon as the Tuckers depart, he persuades Joe that, with one extra day, he might be able to put

things right, so Joe consents.

As the Montgomery family relations slowly mend, Charles asks Joe if he can have a second turn at the

candle to express gratitude for what really matters. Taking up the candle, Charles gives thanks for his

precious children, and then for his neglected wife, for whom he finally lavishes his heartfelt appreciation.

In a private moment, he even confides that he remembers what she was wearing when they first met – a

long red dress with long earrings. Touched by this, Judith curls up in her husband’s lap.

When Judith has her chance to express thanks, she claims that, while they initially intended to help out the

Tuckers, it’s clear that the Tuckers have helped them see what a truly loving family is like. Having cried

wolf once, the Tuckers aren’t messing this time when they announce their departure. The two families say

a warm farewell, vowing to see each other again. As the Tuckers depart, the weather turns inclement

again. The Montgomerys decide to follow them to see that they get off safely. I have to stop there to avoid

the spoiler. Let’s just say the title of the film becomes clear at the very end. Out of the mouths of babes,

it’s Emily who figures out who the Tuckers really are as another miracle has come to pass at Christmas.

All of the movies reviewed below can be found on YouTube for free.

Rest In Peace Diane Keaton

Tributes have been pouring in for Diane Keaton, who passed away on October 11, 2025, at the age of 79, from respiratory complications arising from pneumonia.

Keaton rose to fame in the 1970s, making an indelible mark with her role as Kay Adams-Corleone, wife of Michael Corleone in "The Godfather" films. Her career reached an early peak in 1978 when she won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in the seminal romantic comedy, "Annie Hall."

Her extensive filmography also includes roles in “Reds,” “Play It Again, Sam,” “Baby Boom,” “The First Wives Club,” and the popular “Book Club” franchise. Actress and frequent co-star Bette Midler praised her, saying, “She was hilarious, a complete original, and completely without guile, or any of the competitiveness one would have expected from such a star. What you saw was who she was... oh, la, lala!” Midler emphasized Keaton’s authenticity, humor, and originality, celebrating her as a genuine presence in a demanding industry.

Keaton famously explored her intimate, often painful, relationship with her younger brother, Randy Hall (also known as Randy Keaton), in her 2021 memoir, Brother & Sister. She described Randy as artistic, imaginative, and eccentric—a kindred creative spirit who struggled with severe mental illness and alcoholism. Keaton wrote candidly about his increasing reclusiveness and isolation, revealing a relationship marked by a "lifelong ache" and a struggle to reconcile her public success with his private suffering. She often expressed guilt over not being able to help him more, acknowledging in interviews that she "tried to understand him, to save him, but I couldn’t.” Through her memoir, Keaton transformed this personal sorrow into art, exploring complex themes of family, failure, and compassion. This willingness to expose and reflect upon painful subjects was one of the most intimate and revealing aspects of her private life.

In 2022, Keaton told ABC News that she had been “very fortunate to have many opportunities that came my way." She credited her career longevity and personal satisfaction to having "freedom," saying, "I had the opportunity to make my choices with time as it went on.”

Her magnetic on-screen chemistry often extended off-screen. She famously shared a tempestuous on-off-again relationship with her Godfather co-star, Al Pacino, for two decades before they eventually called it quits in 1990. She was also involved with Woody Allen and Warren Beatty.

Upon learning the news of Keaton's death, many Hollywood celebrities mourned the actress on social media, including her co-stars over the years, such as Mary Steenburgen and Goldie Hawn, and filmmaker Nancy Meyers, who worked with Keaton on “Something's Gotta Give” and “Father of the Bride.”

The family’s statement published by People Magazine emphasized her deep love of animals and her steadfast support of the homeless community. Donations made in her memory to a local food bank or animal shelter would be a most fitting tribute to her legacy. She will be dearly missed.

#DianeKeaton  #tiff

Surviving the Season: Coping with Holiday Depression and Health Woes

 Surviving the Season: Coping with Holiday Depression and

Health Woes

Angela Rosesen, Undergraduate Studies Psychology

The holiday season—a time of twinkling lights, festive gatherings, and cheerful music is often

celebrated as “the most wonderful time of the year.” Yet for many Canadians, this season can feel

far from merry. Behind the sparkling decorations and the joyful expectations lies a reality that

can be emotionally and physically overwhelming. The pressure to appear happy, the stress of

financial obligations, and the deep ache of grief or loneliness can transform what should be a

season of joy into one of quiet suffering. These feelings, often known as the “holiday blues,”

affect countless people every year and can be particularly challenging in the darker, colder

months of winter.

Recognizing that the holidays can bring complex emotions is the first step toward managing

them. Many of the stressors people face stem from unrealistic expectations. Society and media

promote the idea of the perfect holiday: beautifully decorated homes, gourmet meals, and

smiling families gathered in harmony. When real life doesn’t match this image, disappointment,

guilt, or feelings of inadequacy often follow. For some, the season also magnifies loss. Whether

mourning a loved one or facing strained relationships, the absence of familiar faces can make

celebrations feel hollow. The contrast between public joy and private pain can deepen loneliness.

Physical health often suffers during this time as well. Late nights, heavy meals, excess sugar, and

alcohol, which is a depressant, can all disrupt mood and energy. Add in the reduced daylight of

a Canadian winter, and it’s no surprise that many experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD),

a form of depression linked to limited sunlight exposure. Financial stress adds another layer. The

expectation to spend freely on gifts, host lavish dinners, or attend every social function can leave

even the most enthusiastic celebrators drained, both emotionally and financially.

The key to surviving the holidays lies not in achieving perfection but in prioritizing self-care and

setting boundaries. Letting go of the idea of the flawless celebration allows space for authenticity

and peace. Saying no to certain obligations is not selfish, it’s essential. Protect your time and

energy by focusing only on what feels meaningful. Simple gestures, like sharing a home-cooked

A meal or taking a quiet evening to rest can carry more value than any grand performance. Setting

a clear budget and resisting the urge to overspend can also bring relief and allow you to enjoy the

season without lingering financial stress.

Maintaining basic health routines is equally important. Keeping up with regular meals, getting

enough sleep, and incorporating light exercise, such as a brisk walk, can help balance mood and

energy. Small habits like stepping outdoors for natural light or practicing deep breathing can

have a profound impact on your emotional state. Moderation is key to enjoying treats and gatherings,

but listen to your body’s cues and avoid overindulgence. Just as important is scheduling

downtime. Take moments for quiet reflection, meditation, or simply sitting with a warm drink

and allowing yourself to rest. These pauses help reset both mind and body amid the chaos of the

season.

                                                    

Equally vital is emotional honesty. Give yourself permission to feel whatever arises, whether

joy, sadness, or exhaustion. You don’t need to force cheerfulness. If gatherings feel

overwhelming, it’s okay to step away for a breather. Connection, however, remains an important

antidote to loneliness. Reach out to friends, family, or mental health professionals when you need

support. Honest conversations often reveal that others are struggling too. Volunteering or helping

others in your community can also provide a renewed sense of purpose and connection,

reminding us that kindness—both given and received—is a true source of joy. If certain

traditions bring pain, it’s perfectly acceptable to create new ones that reflect your current needs

and bring comfort rather than stress.

If holiday pressures ever become too heavy to bear, remember that help is always available. In

In Canada, you can call or text 

988 for immediate, confidential support through the 9-8-8 Suicide

Crisis Helpline, available in English and French, 24 hours a day. 

If someone is in immediate danger, dial 911. 

In the United States, you can also call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and

Crisis Lifeline, or 911 in emergencies. 

These services are there to help you or your loved ones

through moments of distress; you are never alone.

The holidays may come and go, but your well-being endures far beyond them. This year, give

yourself permission to slow down, to feel deeply, and to release the impossible standards that

Society often sets. Let peace, not perfection, guide your celebrations. Whether through quiet

reflection, gentle connection, or simply taking a deep breath in the middle of the bustle,

Remember that the greatest gift you can give yourself this season is compassion.

Thanksgiving and Everyday Gratitude

Thanksgiving and Everyday Gratitude

Author: Serena 

Thanksgiving is a special time of year where families and friends come together to reflect on their blessings, share a feast, and express gratitude. While this holiday prompts a surge of appreciation, integrating gratitude into our daily lives can transform the mundane into the extraordinary. Recognizing the importance of gratitude on both special occasions and every day can cultivate a deeper sense of wellness, enhance our relationships, and elevate our spiritual practice.

The Power of Gratitude

Scientific research supports the profound effects of gratitude on mental and physical health. Studies indicate that individuals who practice gratitude regularly experience improved emotional wellbeing, reduced stress, and strengthened immune systems. Gratitude shifts our focus from what we lack to what we have, fostering resilience against negative emotions. This shift can cultivate an abundance mindset, inviting joy and contentment into our everyday lives—a key component of holistic health.

Moreover, gratitude is inherently connected to spirituality. Many spiritual traditions emphasize the importance of gratitude as a pathway to connect with the divine or the universe. Developing a grateful heart encourages a sense of humility and openness, allowing for deeper connections with oneself and others. It can act as a powerful reminder that we are part of a larger tapestry of life, where gratitude becomes a sacred practice.

Embracing Everyday Gratitude

To fully embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving year-round, it’s essential to cultivate daily habits that encourage gratitude. Here are some practical strategies to incorporate gratitude into your everyday life:

1. Gratitude Journaling: Setting aside a few minutes each day to write down your thoughts can be a transformative practice. Focus on three things you're grateful for, whether they're monumental or mundane. This simple act allows you to acknowledge the small joys that often go unnoticed.

2. Mindfulness Practices: Incorporate mindfulness meditation or yoga into your routine. During these practices, take a moment to express gratitude for your breath, your body, and the present moment. This connection to the here and now enhances your awareness of life’s blessings.

3. Expressing Thanks: Make it a habit to verbally express gratitude to those around you. Whether it’s through heartfelt compliments, thank-you notes, or small acts of kindness, acknowledging others fosters connection and positivity.

4. Create Gratitude Rituals: Incorporate rituals that resonate with you, such as lighting a candle, creating a gratitude jar, or even a family prayer. These traditions can serve as anchors, reminding you to take time to reflect on your blessings consistently.

5. Volunteer: Giving back is one of the most profound ways to appreciate what you have. By helping others, we can recognize our own abundance and cultivate empathy and gratitude in our lives.

Thanksgiving serves as a wonderful reminder to embrace gratitude, but incorporating it into our lives every day can yield lasting benefits. By fostering a spirit of gratitude, we enhance not only our wellness but also our connections with those around us. In this fast-paced world, taking the time to recognize and appreciate our blessings can be both grounding and uplifting. 

As you gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, consider the importance of carrying that gratitude into everyday life. Each moment offers us a chance to practice thankfulness, transforming our perspective and enriching our journey. Cultivating gratitude is not just a seasonal practice; it is a pathway to joy, fulfillment, and a deeper connection with ourselves and the universe. Let this gratitude guide you throughout the year, creating a lifestyle that celebrates the beauty of everyday moments.

An All-Natural, Simple and Delicious Sleep Aid

 

Author: Renata Richardson Sleep seems to be a topic that comes up often in the media and in conversations between friends and colleagues - being tired but yet wide awake and can't fall asleep, waking up and not being able to fall back asleep easily, mind filled with all kinds of busy thoughts that pushes sleep away even more, being tired during the day because of the night before's lack of sleep... A restful night's sleep is one of the main keys of good health so finding natural ways to try to get into a better bedtime and sleep routine is important.    Many articles have been written about the key things to do and some not do before bed, such as, establishing a nightly bedtime routine by turning off electronic devices at least a half hour before bed and not having them overnight on your nightstand, taking a warm bath or shower before bed, quiet meditation, reading a physical book, not an ebook, turning off the light and making the bedroom dark and cool, are just a few.  Here is another to add to the list! Did you know that bananas with cinnamon contain nutrients that support relaxation and sleep?  Bananas contain vitamin B6 and tryptophan (yes, the same as in turkey that contributes to the post-meal sleepiness!) both which boost melatonin levels that supports regulating sleep, potassium that supports healthy lower blood pressure and magnesium that relaxes muscles and helps you drift off, all which support a more restful sleep.  Cinnamon is a powerful antioxidant, an anti-inflammatory, an antibacterial and an anti-fungal. It can reduce bad cholesterol (LCL) and triglycerides, balances blood sugar and research is being done to show that cinnamon can relieve insomnia, supports brain health and reduces cognition decline.  So, if you sense you might have a restless night, something as simple as eating a peeled sliced banana sprinkled with cinnamon before you get ready for bed could help. A dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey makes it extra delicious with added valuable, healthful nutrients.  You can also boil a washed cut up banana, peel and all, strain and drink the steeped brew, or even just boil the washed peel itself. I prefer the sliced banana with cinnamon myself. Such a simple, all-natural, nutritious and delicious sleep aid.