The Mistle-Tones (2012 TV Movie) User Reviews

Finally, a singing musical I can post a good review on

[the_doofy · 7/10 · 9 February 2018]

I have bashed musicals a few times, so i guess i need to come clean and prop up this one. The emphasis in this movie is on singing, LOTs of singing, good sounding voices doing solos and blending with each other.

Of course since it is christmasy it has traditional themes and characters. But the singing is what this movie is about. The characters are very likable (well mostly), and even the villainess group have beautiful voices.

I tried doing some research on this movie to find out if it was either dubbed or not dubbed, and the little I found indicated that the actors were doing the singing, which makes me a happy camper.

I look for this kind of stuff, i am surprised it took me this long to 'discover' it.

Clean enjoyable Christmas singing movie for groups who look for this kind of thing

Harmless fun..

[ashwetherall1 · 7/10 · 9 December 2019]

This is just a quick review. The Mistle-Tones is just one of those fun little Christmas movies that should be instantly forgettable but thanks to a very simple story,good vs Tori Spelling and a cast that keeps there tongues firmly in there cheeks, especially Spelling who plays a real pantomime evil queen . The songs are fun and the lightweight pace make this a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

Two thumbs up - Sort of

[JustMe-2015 · 6/10 · 25 October 2014]

Tia is great in this. The story line is "cute". The music is wonderful. Would buy the soundtrack, if I could find it. The "relationship" between Holly and Nick is believable. They have great chemistry. And that works. It is a little funny, that there are so many people with costumes, and choreography, who want to sing at a mall on Christmas Eve. They just happened to have sequin clothes at home, waiting for a chance to sing somewhere? LOL The thumbs down part? Tori Spelling. The girl cannot act. And, it's obvious that SHE isn't actually singing. It would have been much better, with someone else in that part. If you can get past that, you will love the movie.

seductive

[Kirpianuscus · 17 November 2019]

One of seductive Hallmark Christmas films, seductive for the musical moments, for love story in old fashion style and for Tori Spelling who, in this case, gives a beautiful- amusing role of the bad, bad girl. Its seduction secret - the lovely musical eulogy of Christmas, the charming lights to the family and its values - ReginaldVelJohnson does a beautiful job as the father of Holly - and the romance , maternal legacy, predictable decision of The Charming Prince and the beautiful end. A film for remember the flavours of old Christmas.

The Mistle-Glee-Tones

[story_by_corey · 6/10 · 21 December 2013]

As the name implies, The Mistle-tones is a story about the true meaning of Christmas as experienced through a group of people singing holiday tunes. And like the mistletoe, hearing a "mistle-tone" song causes spontaneous kissing among co-workers, the boss and apparently the HR department also.

Much of the movie feels like an episode of Glee and beyond a musical buildup to the mall sing-off, there is not much storyline. The movie really could have benefited from more back story about Holly's mom, her role in the Snowglobes and less scenes with Tori Spelling in it. But despite all that, its worth watching just to hear Tia Mowry's incredible voice and seeing the Mistle-tones perform.

A Christmas Movie Miracle

[Hollywoodwhore99 · 10/10 · 19 December 2016]

If you want to see a great movie track this down. It is a miracle that a film this great was made for television. For having a limited budget the director works wonders with camera movements and fancy editing. There is not one false note in this movie.

I know many people for some reason do not like Tori Spelling but she plays a mega frigid bitch here and she is great. The nastier her character gets the nicer Holy gets. (I HIGHLY DOUBT THEY USED TORI'S REAL SINGING VOICE)

The plot is not very complex which fine. This is just about a singing contest at Christmas time! The vocal arrangements are exciting and full of energy. For a movie with a very limited budget the director made the most with camera set-ups and locations. It shows there is true talent in front and behind the camera. There is 2 singing numbers that take place in a warehouse but the director used that environment to his advantage. The whole movie however is never boring. .

Now why there has not been a DVD release is shocking. The film almost sings "Repeated Viewing is a Must".

I hope in the future Tia Mowrey, Andy Gala, Jonathan Patrick Moore, Jason Rogel, and Megan Kathleen Duffy get cast in more projects. They made a great ensemble.

Adorable but Slightly Unrealistic

[cjmangan101 · 7/10 · 1 December 2014]

This is one of my favorite T.V. films. It is absolutely adorable and Tia Mowry does an excellent job of portraying a struggling singer who starts a singing group after previously being rejected by a locally famous singing group. Jonathan Patrick Moore has a fine performance of strict boss who has a secret passion for singing. The only faux pas that was come across by me was from notorious Tori Spelling. Her portrayal was unrealistic and made people wonder if the only reason she was cast is so that the movie would be watched by more people. If your looking for a cute holiday movie to watch if you have some time this is for you.

Career or Christmas Fun

[katier-868-270801 · 4/10 · 9 December 2021]

I was very much enjoying this movie. A light, fun musical with lots of silliness. Perfect. And then there comes a choice between a career and singing for one night of the year. I cannot stand another movie where entire careers have to be thrown away so that someone can have fun at Christmas. I do believe that many people do both things.

A Christmas Joy

[behappysmile · 9/10 · 20 September 2017]

During the Holiday Season there seems to be non stop 24/7 Christmas on every cable channel. Most of them are bland however "The Mistle- tones" is not a bland film. It is an excellent movie that proves "Christmas Movies Can Be Great". The "Mistle-Tones" is the best example I can think of that shows great films can be made about Christmas. It also nice to see a Christmas movie that is not a "Spin" on "A Christmas Carol" or "It's a Wonderful Life". This is not a rip off of "Freaky Friday" or "Groundhog Day". This is not about a poor widow about lose her home, or business. Its not about mending fences. All this is about is a singing contest.

The plot is simple. Holly gets cheated out winning a spot on the "Snow-belles". This is a local singing group the performs every year at the mall on Christmas Eve. Holly ends up getting the mall to hold auditions for the "Deck the Mall Spectacular" and now the "Snow- belles" have to compete with Holly's group that she just formed with fellow co-workers.

This all sounds like it would be "Stupid". Trust me I thought it would be. However I had the time of my life watching this. Iended up buying the CD on I-TUNES.

If you love Christmas & Christmas Music then watch this. Its a perfect night of entertainment for everyone.

Over-the-top corny fun

[jkmtzgr · 6/10 · 24 December 2022]

This movie is so ridiculous it's kind of amazing. I'm glad that it doesn't take itself too seriously and just has fun with its premise. The songs are hummable renditions of classic Christmas songs which makes it entertaining throughout.

There's no subtlety to any of the performances and we of course have the pompous "mean girl" at the forefront. The main couple is charming in their own right too, despite the guy not covering his accent very well.

Of course it's predictable with poor writing, but it's also kind of self aware of it. It's super silly and it knows it. Also, Carl Winslow is in it! What else can you ask for?

Very silly and cheesy

[HotToastyRag · 5/10 · 22 December 2021]

Cheesy, melodramatic, and hardly suspenseful - but if you like to just put on a Christmas movie and zone out, or have one on in the background while you decorate or make cookies, The Mistle-Tones might be perfect for you. It focuses on two rival singing groups, one led by Tori Spelling and the other by Tia Mowry-Hardrict. Tia has her heart set on joining Tori's group, but when she doesn't make the cut, she forms her own group and challenges Tori to a sing-off on Christmas Eve.

Oh, the drama! Just kidding, of course. It's extremely silly. I can't imagine anyone past high school truly enjoying it. But younger kids who let petty jealousies get in the way during choir class might get into the story. Anyone with a trained voice will undoubtedly cringe at the popular singing styles and modern arrangements of the carols - but again, younger kids who sing that way themselves might really like it. To each his own; I just want to make sure you know what you're getting into when you pop in The Mistle-Tones.

A Perfect Film

[laticewilliams · 10/10 · 22 May 2017]

This is a great film. It is just about a singing contest. No major drama here. The film is about family and trying to stay connected to your family's traditions.

In this film the local Christmas Carolers (The Bells) Singing group has an opening. When Holly auditions she is clearly the best performer but she doesn't make the group, The Groups leader (Marci) is clearly jealous of Holly's talent and allows lesser talent join in. What huts Holly is the fact her own mother started "The Bells" but she can't get in.

Upon the news that she can't join she ends up starting a rival group. Now "The Bells" have to compete with "The Mistle-tones" ti sing at the annual "Deck the Mall" Christmas Eve Spectacular.

Very family safe. If you want to watch a great film puts this on any time of the year.

Cute but regular...

[RosanaBotafogo · 6/10 · 16 April 2023]

Holly is a talented singer who ends up losing her place in a famous Christmas choir to another less talented woman. Finding that whole situation very unfair, she decides to create her own choir to participate in a Christmas song contest and ends up making new friends and new discoveries in love.

Silly and cute little Christmas movie, with our eternal Donna from "Barrados no Baile"... Of course, from the title, synopsis and cover we imagine that it will be very musical, I don't like it very much, I understand, but the story is less bad, although a little tiring for sweet and fluffy Christmas films, well below average... The protagonist has "my "New Red Beetle...

The Mistle-Tones is a fun family holiday film that, while not exceptional, is worth a watch

[kevin_robbins · 5/10 · 25 December 2023]

I recently watched The Mistle-Tones (2012) on Hulu. The storyline follows a young lady striving to join her deceased mother's renowned Christmas caroling team. Facing repeated audition failures, she decides to form her own group and challenge the existing team in hopes of becoming the best local caroling ensemble.

Directed by Paul Hoen (Zombies 1, 2 & 3), the film stars Tia Mowry (Sister, Sister), Jonathan Patrick Moore (Savages), Andy Gala (Sensitivity Training), Tammy Townsend (Playing Mona Lisa), Reginald VelJohnson (Die Hard), and Tori Spelling (Scary Movie 2).

The movie presents a unique and cute story with elements of a love story, singing competition, and comedy. Tia Mowry delivers an enjoyable performance, the mall Santa adds humor, and Tori Spelling excels as the villain. However, Spelling's lip-syncing to Mariah Carey is cringe-worthy, and the mall male dancers and rapper fall short. The conclusion, while predictable, remains entertaining.

Overall, The Mistle-Tones is a fun family holiday film that, while not exceptional, is worth a watch. I'd score this a 4.5-5/10 and recommend seeing it at least once.

Only Minor Spoilers. My Favorite Christmas FIlm

[Christmas-Reviewer · 10/10 · 20 April 2016]

BEWARE OF FALSE REVIEWS & REVIEWERS. SOME REVIEWERS HAVE ONLY ONE REVIEW TO THEIR NAME. NOW WHEN ITS A POSITIVE REVIEW THAT TELLS ME THEY WERE INVOLVED WITH THE MOVIE. IF ITS A NEGATIVE REVIEW THEN THEY MIGHT HAVE A GRUDGE AGAINST THE FILM . I HAVE REVIEWED OVER 200 HOLIDAY FILMS. I HAVE NO AGENDA.

In this film a very talented singer Holly (Tia Mowry-Hardrict) gets rejected when she auditions for "The Belles" which is a a Christmas Caroling group. What hurts her more was that her late mother started this group and now she can not be part of it. "The Belles" is now led by Tori Spelling who's campy performance works wonders!

Later on Holly's sister tells her to "Start He Own Group" and she does with her fellow co-workers. She now has started a rivalry and now "The Belles" have to compete with Holly's group "The Mistle- Tones" to see who will sing at the annual Christmas Eve concert! Trust me this film is great!

What is nice about this film is that it's a musical that when people break into song and dance it's because they are rehearsing or performing! There is no awkward transitions. What also helps is that this film has songs that you know. In a minor way the film makes the audience a cast member.

Another plus is that who ever produced the songs did a great job. Its modern and respectful spin on old "Christmas Standards"

My favorite moment of the film is the "Winter Wonderland" segment! However the entire film sparkles and shines like Beautiful Christmas Lights.

If you are looking for a family safe film then WATCH THIS TOGETHER. It is lots of fun. Tia Mowry has a very infectious spirit that makes this film very special! This film will be part of my annual Holiday movie watching! (If ABC FAMILY runs it again) If not I want a DVD release!

I am not lying when I say "This is one of my all time favorite films". This is the first film I had scene in years that I wanted to watch it all over again when it ended.

This was a film I just discovered. I hope if you are reading this review you will watch it. Trust me if you like "Christmas" and "Christmas Music" you will love this film.

Again I like a DVD release!

Impressive

[stanheck-94948 · 9/10 · 30 September 2017]

This film is awesome. It is also a miracle that this film is a well made musical that was made on a low budget. In fact this is a television movie but it does have a small but very devoted cult following that alert people when the film will air. The 2012 film was made for the "Disney Family Channel". I don't know who gave this film the green light but I hope they were promoted. As for the story

So what Holly is excited to audition for the Snow Belles, a Christmas-themed pop group founded by her late mother. However, lead Belles singer Marci denies Holly a chance to audition when she shows up late. Nevertheless, Holly takes to the stage and delivers a sensational audition and is upset when Marci passes her over in favor of Staci. Holly is depressed about being turned down, even after her sister suggests she start her own group.

Soon, though, Holly begins to see merit in the idea and decides to ask the manager of the local mall if she can perform at the local Christmas Eve celebration. The manager decides to hold auditions and a competition as a publicity stunt and agrees to let Holly's group into the show. Holly however doesn't have a group. She later recruits a group of her coworkers.

I don't want to say anything more but I will say "Watch This". Trust me of you love Christmas Music you start singing along!

A Missile of a Movie on Target to be One of the Best Christmas Movies

[gehewe · 10/10 · 26 January 2017]

This is the 3rd consecutive year we've watched the Mistle-Tones. It just gets better. Out of all the movies, this is the one my young adult sons request (and they don't like musicals). The Christmas singing is all done by the cast and it is great- especially since that is not their specialty. Tia Mowry is just precious in the lead as Holly. The whole movie is just delightful with lots of humor. It is well done. It is creative. They got the small things right. For instance, how the group finds out Holly named the group "The Mistle-Tones". One of the group members comes back and says "you named us the Mistle-Tones terrible" Another says "it's not bad", another "I like it" and the original guy changes his mind and likes it too. Love the "Burning Love" number. Tori Spelling was excellent in the role- they all were.

Best Christmas Movie of All Time Don't @ Me

[aswizzz · 10/10 · 6 January 2019]

This movie is the best movie of all time. If you disagree you are wrong. The plot is iconic, it's not an average Hallmark plot. It's a bit above average if I am being honest.

For one there is SINGING, which is a huge game changer.

Why else should you watch this? Because the characters are solid and you haven't seen them in ten other Christmas movies like the Hallmark actors.

Even better news the guy is low-key good looking. You won't have to sit through a cute movie with an ugly guy. Life changing if you ask me.

The movie is very funny, it can't get much better than this. "The Mistle-Tones" has all aspects of a solid Christmas movie. It isn't a classic Christmas film, but it will sure bring any Christmas romance movie lover great joy.

Also the singing is solid and entertaining. I tried learning the joy to the world dance which you can find on youtube, because the movie is just that iconic.

If you don't enjoy this Christmas movie, your heart is ten sizes too small.

Spectacular Christmas Musical

[Sweetigal85 · 10/10 · 9 December 2018]

When I saw that one of the Mowry sisters was in a christmas movie, I was all over this. Only Tia is in this one but together or separate, these girls are just wonderful.

This is a very original, clever movie. It is so sad that Holly's mother started the Snow Belles and somehow she ended up excluded from them. Tori Spelling is the perfect biotch in this movie. It was so nice seeing her and Tia Mowry in this movie. I grew up watching them both in so many things.

Her cranky boss being a karaoke king was definitely a nice surprise. There was a very nice mix of characters in this movie. It was wonderful hearing all the classic and modern christmas songs sung by these stars.

I loved seeing family matters dad as her father in this movie as well. I loved that he made her see that her mother did not start the Snow Belles to win contests or for bragging rights. She did it so that she and her friends could have fun singing christmas songs. So it was still a moral, emotional victory for the Mistle Tones in the end!

This movie has it all. Christmas, romance, friendship. It will definitely leave you with a very good feeling.

Perfect!

[brookenichole-98054 · 10/10 · 14 December 2020]

The Mistle-Tones is perfect! The music, romance, story, and characters all make this movie beautiful! I adore Andy and Tia's chemistry and the Christmas music. It's fun, catchy, and puts you in the spirit. The story builds a wonderful bond between the group and is also heartwarming. Everyone does a fantastic job with their parts. I've watched this movie every year since 2012 and it never disappoints!

Tia and Reginald, yay!

[casslm · 8/10 · 25 January 2022]

No matter how many cheesy predictable Christmas movies come out I cannot seem to stop watching them! This one did not disappoint! I have always loved Tia Mowry and while there were a couple parts I could not guess you knew boy was going to meet girl and get her in the end, but that was okay with me! The singing was great, and Reginald VelJohnson was in it too! The only qualm I have with it is why did the guy running the Christmas mall show have to be pervy, what did that add to the story?