User Reviews

Christmas for Miranda is a painful reminder of the family she never had. Her mother died when she was young, never revealing the identity of her father. But, three days before Christmas, she unexpectedly receives a clue as to the whereabouts that takes her to a beautiful New England town where she meets Ian, a young man who helps with her search. As the clues lead to her father's identity and Miranda discovers the possibility of love.

Now if you like movies with Happy Endings then watch this. If you hate Christmas movies then you might not like this movie.

Now I found the whole film well made and very plausible. You can understand Miranda's not only hopes and dreams but also fully under stand her fears of not wanting to disrupt a family once she learns the truth about herself. This film is not as predictable as might think.

It is a nice change a pace for the typical Hallmark Film.

The concept did sound interesting, not innovative but it didn't sound like too standard Hallmark. Am not one of those people, have said this more than once, that hates on anything from Hallmark (actually have liked a good deal of their festive efforts surprisingly, though they have done a lot of misfires) and tries to not judge them too seriously. Erin Krakow and Niall Matter have been somewhat hit and miss for me in their other work, an opinion that probably not everybody will share.

'Finding Father Christmas' contains some of the best work of both Krakow and Matter, will come onto that later. It is also not only one of Hallmark's best 2016 festive efforts (in a not particularly amazing year for them), but also towards being one of my favourites of theirs overall. While not quite a classic, 'Finding Father Christmas' surprisingly really impressed me. Was hoping that it would be at least average, but was not expecting it to be this good and proof that Hallmark do have good work in them.

Sometimes the script could have been tighter, parts are a little too heavy on the talk.

Also found the ending slightly rushed.

However, Krakow and Matter excel hugely in the lead roles. Krakow is a lot more restrained than she was in 'Sense, Sensibility and Snowmen', here she is quite understated but she never phones in and her performance is charming and heartfelt. Matter is a great sympathetic partner for her and gives a much better performance here than he did in 'Christmas at Dollywood', much more relaxed and looking a lot more engaged in the drama. The chemistry between them is natural and affecting, looking as though they did care for each other. Wendie Mallick is also terrific and is a breath of fresh air. The acting from all is well above average and the chemistry is always there and never looks disengaged or stiff, while the characters aren't complex they have enough to them to make them worth connecting with. The direction is sympathetic while never being dreary.

Visually, 'Finding Father Christmas' is slick and attractive. Hallmark often did deliver on the scenery, the locations were seldom authentic to the real thing but they still looked great and lovingly shot, and 'Finding Father Christmas' is no exception. There is a tendency in Hallmark to have the music too prominent and intrusive, found neither to be the case (not distractingly so anyhow) here. The script flows well and is easy to take seriously without being overly so. Really appreciated its sincerity, something that's evident in the story. There is not much innovative here and the mystery element is not surprising as much, but it's always compelling and has a warm heart delivered with little signs of heaviness. Without going too heavy on the schmaltz.

In conclusion, very well done. 8/10

It is not real comfortable , for me, to say that about a >H>allmark Christmas film. because all films from this serie are, at the first sigh, the same. but this film is special. I can explain why. for the plot, remembering a labyrinth or the improvisation. for the performances - Wendie Malick and Erin Krakow as lead examples. and , sure, for the small change of sentimental side. off course, many familiar parts. and the impression about storz to have the mark of improvisation. but the film works and seems more profound than others about pink Hallmark Christmas universe. and that is, for me, the most significant detail.

This should read 'Finding my unknown father at Christmas time'. The actual title could mean shopping malls, low-rent bars, old people's homes and very occasionally somewhere very far north. In fact it's about a young woman who lost her mother very early in life and has grown up never knowing who her father was. She unexpectedly discovers a number of clues about her mother's secrets, the most important clue for us being that it's just before Christmas. From here we are presented with a mystery which she has to follow, with some of her own concerns; but for us it is most engaging and heart-warming.

Early in her pursuit of answers she comes across a suitable interest. To test my observation I rewound, and sure enough, the expression and turn of her head gave it away. Unlike most other romances, he remains as a constant, providing a counter-balance for her fears and anxieties. Together, she is better equipped to handle what turns into a very complex situation.

Set in a small Vermont town, the customs and Christmas activities of the villagers introduces us to all the main characters. Finding that one person who knows everything takes us down a winding path with a surprising ending. An ending that leaves the warmth from a good helping of Christmas delights.

Conclusion: 8.0 Xmas points, for a delightful cast and a story to keep our interest throughout.

Finding a treasure! That's how this made me feel! Every Christmas I search for the movie(s) of the season to add to other favorites. (Grandpa for Xmas; all the Peter Falk Xmas movies, I'll be Home for Xmas....and several more) This year is definitely the "Father Christmas" duo! I missed this one in 2016, and didn't realize that "Engaging Father Christmas" was like a sequel. And the lead man, Niall Matter, is ho ho hoo hoo....leaves me breathless! Sure hope we see more of him in Hallmark movies!! How this story begins and continues in the 2nd feature, I can see it, going forward, in at least two more features. Next the wedding, followed by whereever the author takes us. I noticed both of these stories have the same authors, Golden and Gunn, so keep it going, please! I've already watched both "Finding" and "Engaging" twice already this season! Just make me feel good all over and feel the holiday spirit at it's best!

Love this movie. Love Erin Krakow. Probably cause she reminds me of my daughter, but she also is exceptional actress. This movie is about a woman who goes to a small town somewhere cold, probably Canada as they all seem to be produced there, seeking her father. She never knew who he was as a child, but found some information to lead her to the town. She meets a guy there, naturally, and things unfold from there. Wendie Malick is exceptional, as usual. Definitely a keeper. The sequel is Engaging Father Christmas and also worth seeing!!

Both movies, starting with "Finding Father Christmas" complement each other VERY nicely. Very Well Directed, and 'Miranda' (Erin Krakow) comes across as a very believable / sensitive character, searching for answers leading to the identity of her real father, and her place with a far away unsuspecting family (back east, in Vermont), far removed from her Seattle connections. Her subtle but highly talented acting skills convincingly captures the audience, and takes them on a sentimental journey into solving a family mystery, and her place in not only finding who is 'Father Christmas', but the meaning of Christmas, itself ! Some subtle changes between the first movie, and the second movie are inherent, as you plunge into the sequel: "Engaging Father Christmas"... Daughter Julia Whitcomb changes young actresses (from the first movie), and one of the premises, behind the family mystery.. 'the captivating poem', behind the mystery to: "the beguiling eve".. actually changes content (a subtle line is added to the original poem, in the second movie. as was initially introduced in the first movie); But these are subtle elements / modifications that actually complement the overall finish product.

BOTH - GREAT FAMILY HOLIDAY productions - a Must See !! But these are so good, you do not have to wait for the Holiday Season, to enjoy. Can't wait for the third movie to be released, (could it be: "Marrying Father Christmas" (??). High marks in this quality holiday drama series, as we have come to know and love - both Miranda and Ian, in this instant Christmas Classic journey...

In writing this review, I am reminded by one of the 'hallmark' quotes, from the movie, that stand out - as that we should be reminded: "May Truth and Grace Reside Here".. how poignant.

Niall nailed it again.... Best actor on Halmark.He comes off so sweet, and kind. His personality shines in every show that he is in. This, and engaging Father Christmas were fantastic.... I will watch again several times. I wish that Marrying Father Christmas would come on sooner than November, but can't wait to see it. I wish you would act and more of the Hallmark movies. Love him.

This is well worth watching. James Welch Henderson Arkansas Henderson Arkansas 11/15/2020

Having said that I will note several good things about the movie. Krakow is really nice as the restrained lead, she has a sort of comfortable Sigourney Weaver look to her. Her mom dies and she heads to a Vermont town at Christmas time trying to learn more about an old picture she finds in her mom's stuff. Krakow appears good to absolute go for future Hallmark Christmas pictures. Matter was okay as the romantic interest, the obviousness of the potential hookup I can't blame on him any more than the writers. The rest of the crew was fine, Malick is good as the local wondering why Krakow's in town. I think my problem is all the developments seemed sort of destined from the beginning and it is always better if there is at least a little question as to where things are going. The wrap Is a little talky and complicated but nice.

Finding Father Christmas (2016) (1) -

I wish Niall Matter would take a bite of my cookie. Whew! He is the perfect man for me. Handsome and with a lovely smile that shows how gorgeous he must be inside too. I liked the fact that he wasn't prettified to within an inch of his life, because his rugged handsomeness didn't need it and was the reason I liked him, which may have also been the reason I enjoyed the film, because where these "Made For TV" films are concerned, if the lead guy isn't hot, I generally won't even bother with it. That is because they can be very cheesey and twee sometimes as well as badly acted, too saccharine or just too full of the same thing, but I have found that the better looking the guy, the better the film usually was and if nothing else, there was someone nice to look at throughout it.

I do actually like this film and I have seen it a few times now, which isn't always the case with because they can be too much sometimes, but this had a slightly different story and a good cast.

The script was a bit wet at times and the main character, Miranda, was drippy too. And the kids were vile in a sickly sweet way, but Niall, as Ian, holds it all together and there's just enough Christmas for it to be charming for a cold winters day.

7/10.

That hayseed niall can't decide whether his shirt should be tucked in or left hanging out and he's never clean shaven.. the last christmas movie i saw him in he was an injury retired pro hockey player and in this one he is a lawyer yet he still dresses in the same duds from the other film .. his main occupation is handyman, yeah right ..erin krakow does a good job as a detective looking for father she never knew ... if you can get past the smarm, its watchable.

"Finding Father Christmas" might be seen as a play on words, and whether or not it was so intended, it's surely appropriate and right on target with the story. The plot and everything else about this film are superb. It's always a joy to find one of the many year-end holiday films that is exceptional.

While the story should appeal to most, it will have special meaning for people who have not known one of their parents, or who their father (or mother) were. Besides the Christmas setting, and the drama, this film has a nice element of mystery and some very good bits of light comedy just in the right places. And, as some Christmas films end, this one too has love. Not romance, but love.

The story itself makes this a different enough Christmas season film to rate keeping in one's film library. But then, the cast, especially the leads, are truly outstanding. Erin Krakow as Miranda Chester and Niall Matter as Ian McAndrick are superb in their roles. Her reticence and hesitation in places are very believable and real. And Ian's down to earth, listening and perfect responses are the work of excellent screen writing and performance. He is so at ease in the role that it's easy to put oneself in the scenes and story and not even think there is acting tacking place. Then, the chemistry between the two is perfect.

All of the rest of the cast also give superb performances. Wendie Malick as Margaret Whitcomb, Jim Thorburn as Peter and Aliya O'Brien as Ellie are affable, so naturally at ease and believable. And, Ian's parents, Lynn Johnson and Michael Kopsa as Katherine and Andrew McAndrick make a viewer feel comfortable and invited into their inn.

This is a delightful film I will enjoy watching over Christmas seasons to follow, and to share with others. Here are some favorite lines from the film.

Miranda Chester, expressing surprise to Ian, "Get out of town!"

Ian McAndrick, "Well, I will say that what we lack in talent we make up for with form."

Miranda, "I don't think I'm gonna find the answers I'm looking for." Ian, "I'm not sure what brought you here, Miranda. But I'm glad it did. And, while you are here, you might as well enjoy it. After all, it is Christmas. All those questions you have - they'll still be waiting for you."

Santa Claus, passing by in a horse-drawn wagon, "Merry Christmas. Merry Christmas, Miranda." Miranda, after he passes, "How did you know my name?"

Miranda, "I don't belong here, Ian - not the way you do." Ian, "It's a tricky thing - belonging." Miranda, "Tricky? What does that mean?" Ian, "Well, take me, for example. After I finished law school, I had job offers coming in from all over - New York, Los Angeles, you name it. Some of them were pretty good, too." Miranda, "I'm sure they were." Ian, "When I told them I was happy here, they assumed it was because this is where I grew up. Because it was so comfortable."

Margaret Whitcomb, "I'm afraid we may never be able to solve the mystery." Miranda, "Well, some mysteries are better left unsolved." Margaret, "Perhaps you're right."

Compared to all movies: 7.5. Compared to Hallmark movies: 9.2.

Hallmark Christmas movies depend on the charisma, appearance, and chemistry of the lead characters. It's as shallow as it gets. Don't expect depth, or great intellectual and philosophical stimulation.

Erin Krakow's character is pretty, and tenacious, all the while radiating confidence. Niall Matter's as the male lead was convincingly attracted to her from the start, and genuinely concerned for her. He was compelling. I was hooked in the first 10 minutes.

The reason her loss is so profound, is because she had no father, and her mother died so suddenly. You will pick up on the fact she never matured beyond the age of 9 in some aspects of her life. It's as if this is her first Christmas experience ever. It's an interesting story, even if unrealistic. I feel that his character was a bit more likable and relatable in some ways, and I bet this movie is more attractive to female viewers, because he is spectacular in this role. She is sweet, and a great actress, but the unconvincing dysfunction was a little far fetched. That's fine, I was still entertained, and moved. I cried a bit, not embarrassed to say it. I caught myself smiling. Yep, I really liked this film.

For entertainment value: 8 stars. The story is alive, and the actors are adept at pulling you into this intriguing narrative. Cinematography, sets, and lighting maybe a bit lacking. The music was great. The final scene was not a disappointment.

This is definitely one of the better quality Hallmark Christmas movies. I almost always like Niall Latter and he excels in this. Erin krakow is hit or miss for me, sometimes she is totally overacting, this is one of her better roles, she is more restrained than normal.

Some continuity things that irked me, but the production is food. The town is cute as always. I really enjoyed it and would watch it again.

Having watched several Hallmark movies, this film seems to be less forced than most. The pacing is good, and the script is fair, if somewhat predictable. The actors work together well.

However, this film is not great; for me it was more workable as a love story with some mystery.

The Christmas theme seemed like window dressing.

Expertly cast, mostly because Erin is just amazing. Two amazing actors... very well acted, and an amazing story. This is definitely worth watching.

Full disclosure - I rate Hallmark films against other Hallmark filmsand this one is a definite 9. The love story is second to the main story. All the traditional Christmas schmultz is still there but the 'mystery' is the main focus. Miranda is hoping to solve the lifelong mystery of who her father is after she finds a few clues in an old suitcase of her mother's that surfaces decades after her mother's death. I also love that the romantic relationship departed from the traditional pattern of girl meets boy, girl doesn't like boy, then bam they realize they are in love. So much to love about this movie and Wendy Mallick is the prize at the end. Bravo.