Review of A Christmas Star (2015) by Jack B — 16 Nov 2015

A Christmas Star - Filmed in Three Weeks.

Did you know that A Christmas Star was filmed in just three weeks and completed on a ridiculously small budget? Yes, the plot is thin and the script light but I would argue that a certain generosity of spirit is required in light of the fact that this is charity project which was originally contrived to educate school children about the film industry.

It appears however that the film has accidently superseded its original educational aims and by surprise has found itself on the national stage. I suspect that this apparent unplanned and unexpected success of A Christmas Star is primarily due to the young lead, Noelle ( played by Erin Galway Kendrick) for despite her youth and the punishing film schedule she has delivered an engaging performance that belies her years.

Turning to the plot, the fictional Pottersglen is a picturesque village in Northern Ireland. The main employer is - guess what? a Pottery- which is under threat from demolition by the evil McKerrod played excruciatingly badly by Rob James-Collier of Downton Abbey fame. Noelle, a pre-teen (Galway Kendrick) who believes she has miracle powers uncovers the plot and despite being disbelieved by her family and friends, valiantly perseveres in order to try and save her village.

A Christmas Star is a pleasant hour and a half in the company of beautiful Northern Irish scenery and some high profile cameos that support Noelle and her gang of misfit friends. Indeed you may be diverted during the screening by playing 'spot the Name'. Despite these 'Names' a special mention must go to Spud Bob ( James Stockdale) and in particular the chemistry between Stockdale and Kendrick in the miracle scene ( you will know which one I am talking about, if and when you see it)which is heart warming, humorous and charming.

Yes, it is easy to pick holes in the seeming lack of a definitive directorial presence, the simplistic plot and the saccharine message of 'the miracle of love'. Certainly when compared with big budget offerings A Christmas Star could fall short. However, it is certainly not a bad film and it is worth going just to see new comer Galway Kendrick in action, for I guarantee that this is not the last time that we have heard of this young lady.