Years back, there was an A-list performer who actually put on his resume (which only casting directors got to see) that he was "the hardest working actor in Hollywood." Watching Holiday Harmony, I felt that, in a genre crammed full of low-budget wannabees cashing in on the season, here finally was an X-Mas movie with somewhat higher ambitions. Slickly produced, and great cinematography. The script by Lauren Swickard -- who somehow managed to also cast herself in a minor role? -- combines three well-worn movie themes (Christmas, music, and the lure of small town life) into a very workable film that holds the attention. Interesting appearance by Brooke Shields who is now at the stage of her career where she plays a cranky small town mother. Annelise Cepero in the lead role is charismatic and knows how to carry a tune. Recommended. ((Designated "IMDb Top Reviewer." Please check out my list "167+ Nearly-Perfect Movies (with the occasional Anime or TV miniseries) you can/should see again and again (1932 to the present))
21 Reviews
Oooooooooooof
ethanmitchellmusic30 November 2022
Warning: Spoilers
If you play guitar, don't watch haha! I'm a sucker for cheesy Christmas movies, but I did not like this one. It's cheesy, but it's also bad. The main character has a lovely voice, but I was very distracted by the camera moving around to hide her not playing the guitar at all in the opening song scene. The scenes with Jeremy made me laugh because they felt so inauthentic. I'm not against overused tropes, but the two at the end (kissing the guy who rejects you and the girl he likes sees/LA doesn't care about who you are and wants to make you a pop star) really seemed out of place.
Honestly, I thought it was hilarious and had a good time laughing my way through. If you're having a good time with your buddies, you might like doing that. Sort of a cosmic gumbo of bad writing, rough acting and fatigued tropes.
Honestly, I thought it was hilarious and had a good time laughing my way through. If you're having a good time with your buddies, you might like doing that. Sort of a cosmic gumbo of bad writing, rough acting and fatigued tropes.
I'm moving to Harmony Springs!
tennis-3829030 November 2022
Warning: Spoilers
A bit thick with the syrup. Can't understand why Gail is idolized like the second coming of Christ, given how ungrateful she seems, and just the 2 weeks they know her. Casting seems a bit mismatch between the lead characters. And how did they managed to fly her back for the gala in time for streaming her on I heart? Jeremy not only fixed her van, but renovated the inside, and all she did was said "thanks"? Honestly the back story of the people in harmony springs was more interesting, and heartfelt, than a drifter with no money driving across the country to sing. Gave it a 6 for a quick and breezy movie.
my favorite pookiebear in the wholke wide world
entrypointmandude9 August 2023
Years back, I met a boy named Richard Perrie. I love him so much and he was my pride and joy. He was my nepenthe, bringing salvation to my melancholy and sad life. His appearance in this movie brought me to tears and gave me meaning. His elysian acting was far from jayus. If you are reading this Richard Perrie, I love you.
Moving on to the rest of the movie; the rest of the cast was plain and mediocre compared to my pookiebear Richard Perrie. The acting was subpar at most and the romantic plot was... something.
At times, the pacing feels a bit uneven, with certain scenes dragging on while others could have been explored in more depth. Additionally, some of the supporting characters, while endearing, could have been given more development to enhance the emotional impact of their interactions with the leads.
In conclusion, "Holiday Harmony" is an ultimately mid movie. Without the appearance of Richard Perrie this movie at most was a 3/10.
Moving on to the rest of the movie; the rest of the cast was plain and mediocre compared to my pookiebear Richard Perrie. The acting was subpar at most and the romantic plot was... something.
At times, the pacing feels a bit uneven, with certain scenes dragging on while others could have been explored in more depth. Additionally, some of the supporting characters, while endearing, could have been given more development to enhance the emotional impact of their interactions with the leads.
In conclusion, "Holiday Harmony" is an ultimately mid movie. Without the appearance of Richard Perrie this movie at most was a 3/10.
From the heart, with a wicked beat
dumdumspen28 November 2022
This is the best movie ever, but that is my opinion. Some say it's silly rom com but I think it is truly a beautiful film. The chemistry between the cast, it's like no other I have ever seen, and that is what makes the film so perfect. I wonder what would have been of this film if these actors never existed, because not just one them did it for me, they all did. If you have never seen this film, when you do you will understand what I mean. Holiday Harmony looks like it was done from the heart and it feels so real for some reason, like magic- and the soundtrack LOVE IT. Besides the 2 lead actors (and Brooke) the soundtrack makes the film the beauty that it is. As you can tell I am in love with this film, and I know you will be too.
Great holiday fun and some awesome tunes too
newrichmond28 November 2022
Great holiday fun and some awesome tunes too! I was expecting a typical two dimensional holiday rom com but this is a lot more fun. The singer is amazing and if that's really her singing, she's got a great future. The kids were a lot of fun and Brooke shields was great. So nice seeing a Hollywood beauty who isn't plasticized to within an inch of her life. She looks great and brought a lot of fun to the movie. Great dialogue and acting. Yeah it's low budget but this one makes up for it with talent and story, and of course song. Lots of fun songs. Not sure if that actress is really the singer but if she is she could be huge!
Give this one a look
fullrate28 November 2022
You should give this holiday rom-com a look. I wasn't expecting much, and had already seen about 6 of these on netflix already, so I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this and how much fun it was. One reason this one stands out is the music. Analeesa Ciprano is amazing and can really carry a tune. If that's really her singing watch out, sky's the limit with that one. Aside from the fun musical asides the movie is just cute and really enjoyable. Brooke Sheilds looks amazing and is still delivering great performances. The rest of the case fits perfectly in the movie. This isn't a superhero movie or james bond but it's a really fun, cute holiday flick with great writing and songs the entire family can really enjoy.
Where did they find all those talented kids??
pleasenok28 November 2022
I was about to cancel HBO max but now I'm keeping it for another year! I had tried watching a few of these types of movies (low budget rom coms) on netflix and most were just recycled trash with some familiar faces making appearances. When I saw this pop on the max, i figured it was just more of the same. But I LOVE LOVE LOVE Brooke Sheilds so I gave this a try. Brooke was amazing and beautiful as always. But what really stood out were the script (faster paced and more "alive" than most rom coms) and the kids. Usually kids in these movies don't have much talent. At best they are usually cute and likeable. But these kids were cute, likeable AND talented? The movie deserves an award for that. Add in the lead's amazing voice and you've got a fun movie for the holiday season. Thanks HBO!
I am going to come right out and say that I love this film!
redpopcellar30 November 2022
I am going to come right out and say that I love this film- it is so important to me, that its one of those rare few films that don't want to see too often (six times so far and it's been out less than a week), so I can preserve some of the original wonder that I felt when I first saw it. It nourishes me as an artist and a human being.
This film is what I think great romcom can be. It has terrific acting, a beautiful simple story, wonderful production values, and of course that score- certainly one of the most beautiful and haunting scores in the history of romcom film.
What it has that is most important, however, is heart. This movie has a wonderful message about what it means to be human, to be alive. What better metaphor for the sheer passion of living than the exhilaration of simply running as fast as you can.
This movie is as close to pure perfection as any romcom made in the last five years. As one woman wrote, watch it with your children. Mine loved it!
This film is what I think great romcom can be. It has terrific acting, a beautiful simple story, wonderful production values, and of course that score- certainly one of the most beautiful and haunting scores in the history of romcom film.
What it has that is most important, however, is heart. This movie has a wonderful message about what it means to be human, to be alive. What better metaphor for the sheer passion of living than the exhilaration of simply running as fast as you can.
This movie is as close to pure perfection as any romcom made in the last five years. As one woman wrote, watch it with your children. Mine loved it!
HBO MAX back on TOP!! Brooke delivers
NoNameBigBoy28 November 2022
For months I had been wary with HBO max as they continued to put discovery channel trash into my feed. I'm there for quality films of all kinds and budgets, from art house to comic book to holiday rom com. And this one was up to snuff as far as HBO Max goes. Why? It's a cut above. Higher quality writing, acting, singing, etc. HBO always brings quality to the table and this movie was such a breath of fresh air. Script is a taught, well-written romp through a young singer's troubles. Acting is great, way better than typical for this genre, and the singing is off the charts. I had been worried about HBO but it looks like they are back on track. More of this A+ quality please!!
Nobody puts Gale in a corner...
fleabagfirefly30 November 2022
You can easily see why this movie became such a hit for HBO immediately and will be loved today by younger and older generations. This movie has a wonderful soundtrack, great actors, lots of dancing, drama and comedy.
Even if the movie is set in Oklahoma, it has that long gone feeling of the carefree, happy 80s. Gale and Brooke are captivating and they just have that untouchable charm that you only can find in these lovely movies from long ago.
I will also give cred for the wonderful cinematography which capture the colors of the nature scenes.
This is a must see for everyone! You will not regret the watch!
Even if the movie is set in Oklahoma, it has that long gone feeling of the carefree, happy 80s. Gale and Brooke are captivating and they just have that untouchable charm that you only can find in these lovely movies from long ago.
I will also give cred for the wonderful cinematography which capture the colors of the nature scenes.
This is a must see for everyone! You will not regret the watch!
Sultry Singin'
old5230 November 2022
This is an excellent movie i have been watching it since the day HBO released it with my big sister. It is the type of movie that u can watch over and over again and still laugh, smile, and cry every time with out ever getting bored of it like other movie's. It is a movie that will live on forever through generations of family. I love it :) when ranking from 1-10 in my case i would rate it easily 9.9 every time.
Itis a film about the change of a girl who sings and her friends, their relationships within their singing family, the changes in Gail's view of the world during their experience.
HOLIDAY HARMONY WILL FOREVER LIVE ON AS A TIMLESS CLASSIC. Thank-you sorry though for only the short comment.
Itis a film about the change of a girl who sings and her friends, their relationships within their singing family, the changes in Gail's view of the world during their experience.
HOLIDAY HARMONY WILL FOREVER LIVE ON AS A TIMLESS CLASSIC. Thank-you sorry though for only the short comment.
To warm up Hamburg Holidays!
TaoOfPoochie28 November 2022
All my friends here in ice cold Hamburg got together to watch Brooke Shields in her new movie and had so much fun. We all love her so much. Very well written movie. We all watch english movies for english language practice and we learned some new fun communication in this. Bravo to writers. Brooke is so amazing she still looks great and is such an inspiration. Such great scenery and we all loved seeing the old VW van bc most of us are old enough to remember riding around in them when they were new and we were kids! Yes some of us are old but we appreciate movies with young people, all of whome were very talented in this special movie. Thank you Brooke and HBO!
Perfect holiday romcom+
matchincaddies28 November 2022
Thank you HBO Max! I love holiday rom coms but most of the ones out there are super low budget garbage. Sometimes they have a famous name from long ago that makes a cameo, in this one the ever amazing Brook effing Sheilds is in the majority of it. And she's amazing. On top Brook you've got the main singer who is very very talented. She's headed straight to the top. The writing is also great. Usually in movies like this, the writing is like an open day-old soda: flat, disgusting, gross, but this is like a newly opened can of coca-cola, fresh, sweet and very bubbly. A lot of humor and wit worked in. Talented kids, a fun story, and of course ,Lady Brook. U can't go wrong. Thanks HBO! MORE PLEASE!!
Such a great Holiday movie! And those amazing kids!
BonzeesRevenge29 November 2022
I've been a fan of Lauren Swickard since she was Lorynn York back when she was an actress in lifetime movies and now she's making them! And making them great! Way to go Lauren. Her script is great, and the actors are incredible. Annelise Cepero is an amazing singer and I can't wait till she has more music out. Brooke Sheilds was great as always, love love seeing her. So funny seeing the mega glam icon like Brooke playing country characters hahaha. But she does it with class. And finally those darned kids! Their cuteness is rivaled only by their talent. Whoever cast those kids, nice job. Overall this is a well above average Holiday rom com. Even if you're not into this type of movie, check it out, the music is awesome!
Tune in for Brooke, stay for the tunes!
snaisux4kash28 November 2022
I viewed this movie for the first time last night and I enjoyed every aspect of it -the dancing, the acting, the dialogue, the plot, the script and the whole atmosphere that this movie created. I would highly recommend it.
It has a reasonable plot that is very well written but is accompanied by an immortal soundtrack and moments that make this film remarkable. Herein lies it's value as it can be revisited for positive memories and a soundtrack second to none. While many will argue Schindler's list or 12 Years A Slave is a superior film not many will agree you can revisit or watch it over again. The songs featured in this classic will be included on our iPod's and play on the radios for years to come.
This film is a must see and should be on your bucket list. It is easy to understand and easy to get lost in this great soundtrack.
It has a reasonable plot that is very well written but is accompanied by an immortal soundtrack and moments that make this film remarkable. Herein lies it's value as it can be revisited for positive memories and a soundtrack second to none. While many will argue Schindler's list or 12 Years A Slave is a superior film not many will agree you can revisit or watch it over again. The songs featured in this classic will be included on our iPod's and play on the radios for years to come.
This film is a must see and should be on your bucket list. It is easy to understand and easy to get lost in this great soundtrack.
Pure Beauty
burninbricksbowling30 November 2022
As a person in an intellectual field, stating that my favourite current movie is Holiday Harmony does not come with kind looks. I, however, have never been more mesmerized and taken by a movie before or after this one. Everything is perfectly placed and the subtle details entwined in the major scenes are excellent: I will always consider the climax scenes to be some of the most masterful cinematic scenes in film history.
But, alas, all Holiday Harmony fans know that the only reason they watch the movie is for the last scene. Everything building up to it is necessary and, consequently, moving . . . But that scene leaves me breathless and goosebumped each time I watch it. I've seen it ten times so far.
Do not avoid this movie because it is seemingly a superficial singing romance. It is not; on the contrary, it is a beautiful picture about life, hardships and of course, love.
But, alas, all Holiday Harmony fans know that the only reason they watch the movie is for the last scene. Everything building up to it is necessary and, consequently, moving . . . But that scene leaves me breathless and goosebumped each time I watch it. I've seen it ten times so far.
Do not avoid this movie because it is seemingly a superficial singing romance. It is not; on the contrary, it is a beautiful picture about life, hardships and of course, love.
Brooke Shields never disappoints. Annelise Cepero WOW
redloveskools25 November 2022
Shaun Paul Piccinino delivers another Christmas movie everyone will enjoy. Lauren Swickard and Ali Afshar are the Holiday movie makers to watch. Last two years California Christmas hits and now delivering another great story. Well done. Annelise Cepero..... Where have you been? That voice along with your acting performance. You have a lot of similarities to a young J Lo. Wow she is one to watch. Brooke Shields draws everyone in and always delivers a great performance. Everyone loves Brooke. Jeremy did a great job along with the young performers. The Music agent was so believable. This is a happy, sweet movie. Happy Holidays.
PERFECT Christmas Movie for the Family
ljjpiccinino3 December 2022
I've had to have watched this over 10 times, every time I see it the better it gets! Not only is a good classic christmas movie but it is also able to capture amazing elements of real life situations. The movies actors truly bring this movie to life, but not just from the adults. The children who act in this movie seriously bring something to the table with there great acting skills and great voices. I love Gale and Jeremy's relationship also, such a cute couple and great love arch. The actors did a lot but so did the making of this movie, the cinematography shows that this isn't just some hallmark movie but actually something people put work into. Beautiful moments captured by camera, and the directing and writing of this movie has really changed my mind about romantic christmas movies. This movie is truly perfect to watch with the family as you get in the christmas spirit!
Really good and refreshing! Promising director...
andredejongh3 January 2023
The film starts as your middle of the road romantic Christmas movie... you think okay, here we go, some über-sweet predictable Christmas film for the next 1 hour something: let's relax. Of course it is more or less predictable, but after a while it is all starting to become really refreshing (!) ... it shakes off the standard hallmark-ish style and all of a sudden some real quality is peaking through. 'What's this?!', I thought 'I wasn't prepared for this' My brain had to adapt... even so much that I feel there's an award winning film in here. Almost! But not yet perfect enough. But as said a really well made, well directed film! I sense the director's quality and the talent he clearly has to direct his actors. They clearly had fun together, they were relaxed and there's some real good director of photography at work and editor. There's also some really good casting going on: the kids for example are excellent actors! I then mean: really really good! Class A. And the music is really, really good with a gorgeous final Christmas song, which I really want to listen to outside of this film. Jeremy Sumpter is a real talent to reckon with, Carla Jimenez has a small part but she displays a really strong character, which also elevates this film. Brooke Shields is giving one of her best performances of the last years, with believable accent and all. I feel that director Shaun Paul Piccinino could be a real big Hollywood director. I just feel it. There are moments where this film shines like a diamond. At times I feel a 'Fame' (1980) like quality, or even some real good cinematic (social) drama. The script isn't perfect though.... The Scarlet story line could have been avoided without losing any of the dramatic arch, it would have been even more dramatic and would have added to the quality feel of this film. And there are more rough edges to be polished. Annelise Cepero has a lovely voice and, like the film, has moments where she is a diamond. She starts out as this light weight Christmas movie character but she has her real strong moments and together with the superb other cast members and the really good energy they apparently had together while filming this film, she grows as an actor. But I predict that within 5 years Shaun Paul Piccinino will win an Academy Award for a superb film. Go see this film, it is a nice feel good film but also very interesting because the film, the director and the production really surprise you as a viewer;. I think we saw the birth here of many new careers (of the director, the director of photography, the editor and probably all of the actors). Brooke Shields has shown her versatility in here and I am sure she's (back) on the radar of many very good Hollywood directors and producers.
Really great story and music
nina-bg3 July 2023
Really great movie .I really enjoyed watching every single minute of this 1 hour and 50 minutes. Great music , Actors , amazing nature and .....so real story about dreams and finding love and home. Watch it and give that underrated story chance . I promise you you will have a very very big smile and you will feel amazing and happy at the end . Just grab cup of nice homemade hot chocolate , boll of popcorn and lay on couch and press PLAY and just turn the volume on while you enjoy on max this movie .
P.s. Don't forget to write review and to rate after watching the movie in IMDB and google and.
P.s. Don't forget to write review and to rate after watching the movie in IMDB and google and.
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
