Noel (2004)

User Rating:

6.3/10   

Director:

Chazz Palminteri

Writer (WGA):

David Hubbard (written by)

Release Date:

26 November 2004 (Italy)

Genre:

Drama

Tagline:

Miracles are closer than you think

Plot:

Five New Yorkers come together on Christmas Eve, seeking a miracle.

Plot Keywords:

Christmas | Hospital | New York | Handcuffs | Father Son Relationship

Cast

Susan Sarandon	...	Rose Collins
Paul Walker	...	Mike Riley
Penélope Cruz	...	Nina Vasquez
Alan Arkin	...	Artie Venzuela
Marcus Thomas	...	Jules Calvert
Sonny Marinelli	...	Dennis
Daniel Sunjata	...	Marco
Chazz Palminteri	...	Arizona
Rob Daly	...	Paul
John Doman	...	Dr. Matthew Baron
Carmen Ejogo	...	Dr. Batiste
Billy Porter	...	Randy
Donna Hanover	...	Debbie Carmichael
Merwin Mondesir	...	Glenn
Una Kay	...	Helen

MPAA:

Rated PG for sensuality, thematic material and some language.

Runtime:

96 min

Country:

USA | Canada

Language:

English

Color:

Color

Aspect Ratio:

2.35 : 1

Sound Mix:

Dolby Digital

Certification:

UK:PG | Singapore:PG | Canada:PG (Ontario) | USA:PG (certificate #41001) | Iceland:L | Malaysia:(Banned) | Australia:PG | South Korea:12 | Finland:K-3 | Argentina:Atp | Brazil:Livre

Filming Locations:

Montréal, Québec, Canada

Company:

Neverland Films

Trivia:

Was released into a 48-hour trial DVD after its theatrical release.

Goofs:

Continuity: In the hospital, the nurse behind the counter is seen with glasses. In one scene she removes the glasses. However when the shot changes, her glasses are back on and she removes them again.

Quotes:

Artie: I thought I was never gonna see you again.
Mike: Hi. Long time no see. Should I get the nurse?
Artie: No. What are you still doing here?
Mike: I was waiting for you to wake up.
Artie: Thanks so much for helping me out. I'm - I'm very, very grateful.
Mike: Your welcome. Artie, listen to me. I want you to know something. I forgive you.
Artie: Huh?
Mike: You understand? It's over. I forgive you for everything.
[Artie starts to cry and Mike kisses his forehead, sniffling as well, then he sees Artie's son, Paul]
Mike: Looks like there's someone here to see you.
[...]

Movie Connections:

References One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1975)

Soundtrack:

Micaela

Noel is unusual holiday fare, tackling difficult subjects while still reaching for a happy ending

Rose (Susan Sarandon) is an author of children's books who is especially lonely this holiday season. Her mother, who is stricken with Alheimer's disease, is having difficulty eating normally and recognizing anyone around her. Rose, a divorcée, has not had a serious romance for quite sometime. And, although a young gentleman in the office makes a pass at her, she is not willing to have a one night encounter. Nina, a lovely young lady, has a good looking, police officer-fiancé but, alas. Mike has a jealous streak that produces sharp anger and abuse, at times. Nina is not certain she wants to continue the relationship. Meanwhile, others in NYC are dealing with baggage from abusive fathers, criminal pasts, and religious doubts. Is this truly the "most wonderful time of the year?" This is a very compelling but rather serious entry into the world of holiday movies. The subject matter is most sobering, even as there are moments of humor and happiness. All of the performers are fine and so is the lovely look of the film's design. If anyone is feeling down at holiday time, this is NOT the film to bring out for a showing. That said, if anyone wishes to watch a thoughtful movie about real issues, try to find this movie during the off season. It has many assets and will enlighten and entertain viewers at the same time.