There are really two stories at play here; one is a very typical, though chaste, romance. The other is about a family coming together to do something special.
The romance is fine; Michael Shanks and Erin Karpluk do have a real chemistry, and there's ample reason to believe that their characters should be together, but the script doesn't really give them much of a journey. It almost feels like some important scenes were trimmed.
The other story, and far more compelling, is the story of the titular lodge itself. Intertwined with the building itself are two long family histories, embodied in an excellent performance by John Innes as the family patriarch. It is the story of a family gathering around his wishes that makes for a very watchable, touching film.
There is a strong Christian element to the story, but it's never preachy. It's a story about people living by their strong faith. And it really does work. Whatever your own views, this film is truly about family love. And it is truly worthy of a spot in your holiday viewing.
Review of Christmas Lodge
