The Christmas Switch (2014)

The Christmas Switch: Directed by Paul Lynch. With Natasha Henstridge, Brian Krause, Cedric Smith, Krista Bridges. Through Eddie’s wit and guile, he gives Sam that last night and finally finds the real meaning of Christmas the gambler’s way.

“Christmas has always been my favourite time of year, as it means lots of family time and reliving the nostalgia of singing and listening to carols, watching Christmas films and animations, playing festive games and opening presents. It will always be dear to my heart and nothing will ever change that for the world.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eu0026#39;The Christmas Switchu0026#39;, seeing it as someone who wanted to see a different festive film other than the ones watched every year, is never going to be one of my favourites or one of the timeless festive films. Did find it to not be exactly great and that there are flaws. u0026#39;The Christmas Switchu0026#39; is though a more than watchable film and avoids some, though not all, of the traps that other Christmas films have fallen into. One of the better new Christmas films seen recently.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eAs to be expected, the story is predictable and has very few surprises, a lot of easily telegraphed scenes here. Occasionally the pace drags.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eIt is not without its cheesy and schmaltzy moments as well and some of the acting is really not much to write home about.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eHowever, u0026#39;The Christmas Switchu0026#39; is a decent looking film, with some lovely scenery especially. The music provides some affectionate nostalgia and is pleasant to listen to, while the direction avoids being too routine. Didnu0026#39;t find myself irritated by the characters at least and wasnu0026#39;t bored.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eDespite the predictability, u0026#39;The Christmas Switchu0026#39; has its heart in the right place and has a sweet and relevant message that is easily relatable and didnu0026#39;t feel preachy. There is definitely a festive spirit and the atmosphere is very difficult to dislike. Lots of warmth and charm here, with enough parts to warm and melt the heart, never does it feel too juvenile or mean-spirited and the sentimentality doesnu0026#39;t become too much. Other actors are better than average and has some appeal.u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eOverall, likeable and above average if nothing to be blown away by. 6/10 Bethany Cox”