rinfillmore While I admit to being a sucker for just about any corny Christmas movie, this one is far above the norm as one can tell just from the cast list. Laura Dern, Lynn Redgrave, Cathy Baker, and Carla Gugino are all well respected lead actresses for good reason, and here some of them play quite small roles, though it's the quality of the supporting cast that makes this film far better than most. Patty Dukes as the angel is probably the corniest element, but one has to accept a bit of corn in a holiday movie, and she handles the role as well as anyone could. As other reviewers here have said, the dialog is quite good, and the performances by the children, especially the always-strong Mae Whitman, are engaging without ever becoming too cute. Definitely worth a watch.

Amy Adler Emily's sister is out of control. A drug abuser and a resulting neglectful mother at times, she almost overdoses and ends up in the slammer. Emily has a good relationship with her sister's two children and is there to take care of them. However, she is between jobs and has no place to stay in Providence. The child welfare case worker wants, therefore, to take the children away from Emily. Alanna and J.T., the kids, are already traumatized by the whole situation to the point where J.T. will not utter a word. Emily makes a decision to escape with the children to another venue. On the way to nowhere, her car breaks down in the small city of Bethlehem. There, she and the children are treated with uncommon kindness, partly because of a case of mistaken identity. However, the city truly is capable of performing miracles. Will Emily and the children finally have a rewarding life all around? This wonderful film is a must for the holiday or any season. The actors are appealing, the script is beautiful, and all of the extras that make for superior film-making are present. A romance is always welcome and this one is, but the movie's attractions go far beyond that. If only Hollywood would make this kind of film at times! However, Hallmark is dedicated to giving us these incredible cinematic gifts and this one is one of the loveliest. Seek this one out without delay. As a companion to Miracle on 34th Street, this "Miracle" movie is topnotch.

Jenny This movie to me is so special that I can view it over and over and never get tired of it. It has become something I enjoy watching not only at Christmas but many times a year when I need a 'feel good' kind of movie. The actors do an amazing job of drawing you in and making you feel as if you are a part of the storyline. It is certainly worth buying if you have not taped it since it is one of the sweetest holiday movies I've seen in recent years. It is a family film showing the harsh side of life while giving hope that goodness can come out of a difficult struggle if you have the support and strength to get through it. My family and I will enjoy this movie for many years to come.

Jim Menke This is a wonderful film that, while taking place during the hoildays, is one that can be viewed at any time of the year and be thoroughly enjoyed. I have watched it many times since getting it last December. As with any Hallmark show, the production values are outstanding. Although based on a book by Marilyn Pappano, the teleplay far surpasses the original. All the changes simply made for a better story.What a great cast of veteran performers - Patty Duke, Laura Dern, Faith Prince, Kathy Baker and Lynn Redgrave in a film stealing role as a judge. Each of the supporting roles are equally effective.This is a film that could rival "It's A Wonderful Life" as a great holiday (or any time) entertainment.