Sick Product of a Sick System

It's no definitive masterpiece but it's damn close.

There is, somehow, an interesting story here, as well as some good acting. There are also some good scenes

This is one of the best movies I’ve seen in a very long time. You have to go and see this on the big screen.

This is a made-for-TV Christmas movie starring Hollywood legend Maureen O'Hara as Mary Parkin, a widow who is being cared for by ski-shop owner Richard Evans (Richard Thomas) and his wife, Keri (Annette O'Toole). They moved into Mary's estate after Richard struggles to balance his family and career life.As with many families, there is a husband or wife who seem to put work over family. This movie beautifully depicts Mary giving the career-oriented Richard several lectures in having a healthy family life and has him guessing what the greatest gift one could have is - as it is revealed by the end of the film.There are quite a few sappy moments, but the characters were well-acted for the most part and the plot was quite solid, giving us a pretty captivating film with many heartfelt dramatic moments. In addition to the drama, there is also a touch of fantasy elements that give the film a bit of suspense and intrigue. Overall, a good one to watch during Christmas time.Grade B

Now I love Christmas films, Scrooge(1951), It's a Wonderful Life, Miracle On 34th Street(1947) and the first two Home Alone movies all to name a few. That said, while not quite a classic, The Christmas Box was a lovely film to watch. And along with The Reading Room, it is for me one of the better Hallmark films. I do agree that the story line is corny and clichéd, but what made the Christmas Box so watchable was the suitably understated acting and a very poignant ending. The direction is good, the pacing is efficient enough to not make the film too sappy and the music is a beauty. The script does have a touch of honesty and heart as well, that I did appreciate. But the acting was what made the film. I cannot say I care for Richard Thomas that much, but his acting is very understated here and it works. Annette O' Toole is as lovely as ever, while Maureen O' Hara is a sheer pleasure in this film. Overall, very nicely done and moving. 8/10 Bethany Cox

Richard (Richard Thomas) and Keri (Annette O'Toole) have moved to a new city near ski country. They sold their house in order to get Richard's ski shop off the ground, instead living in a cramped apartment with their daughter, Jenna. Keri sees an ad for a couple needed to take care of an older lady in her home. The home turns out to be a mansion and the lady chooses Richard's family to be her caretakers. Keri is ecstatic, as they are given a complete wing of the large home for their quarters and her duties are not very taxing. But, the lady of the house is sad and lonely and harbors many secrets. Also, there is a mysterious music box in the attic that plays music on its own, at times. Richard begins to have strange dreams as well. What is going on here? This is a lovely story about love, family, and friendship. Thomas, O'Toole, and Maureen O'Hara are excellent as the key players, who learn valuable lessons in giving and receiving love. The script is humorous and heart warming, although far-fetched at times. If you would like a new tradition in film at holiday times, this movie is a great choice. It upholds the values everyone should hold dear.

The Christmas Box, is my favorite holiday movie. I have enjoyed The Christmas Box each year (since i first saw it) and believe it's a one of the those holiday movies you have to see each holiday season. Has a great cast with Maureen O'Hara and Richard Thomas leading the way. I highly recommend this movie, the best Hallmark movie i have ever seen. Don't miss it!