Watch A Kiss Before Christmas

A Kiss Before Christmas is a heartwarming holiday-themed film that debuted on the Hallmark Channel in 2021 as a part of its annual countdown to Christmas lineup. The movie features a talented cast including James Denton, perhaps best known for his role on "Desperate Housewives," veteran actress Marilu Henner, widely recognized from the classic TV series "Taxi," and Rod Wilson. This charming festive film, directed by Jeff Beesley and written by Mark Amato, combines elements of romance, comedy, and a touch of Christmas magic to create an engaging story sure to put viewers in the holiday spirit.

In A Kiss Before Christmas, James Denton portrays Ethan Holt, a successful but somewhat unsatisfied real estate developer. He's a hardworking executive who, like many of us, is striving to keep up with the hustle and bustle of daily life while trying to find the right balance between work and family. Ethan is a devoted husband and father, yet somewhere along the line, he feels as though the joy and excitement in his life have slowly ebbed away, leaving him questioning the path he has taken.

Marilu Henner plays Joyce Holt, Ethan's loving and supportive wife who is deeply dedicated to their family. She's an optimist, the kind of person who tries to see the best in every situation and works hard to maintain the spirit of the holidays in their home. Yet, despite her best efforts, the growing disconnect between her and her overworked husband is palpable, adding an undertone of poignancy to the movie.

Rod Wilson's role is less publicized but nonetheless central to the narrative development of the story. He supports the ensemble cast, contributing to the dynamics that ultimately push the movie's plot forward in interesting and unexpected ways.

The crux of the story unfolds just as the holiday season is ramping up. Like a tale spun from a classic Christmas yarn, Ethan makes a wish that he had never married after he is passed over for a promotion he believed he deserved. In a twist akin to other beloved Christmas movies that play with the "what if" scenarios of life choices, Ethan's world is turned upside down when he wakes up the next morning to discover that his wish has, in fact, come true.

The once dedicated family man finds himself living a life vastly different from what he once knew. No longer married to Joyce, in this alternate reality, Ethan experiences a new bachelor existence of wealth and professional prestige but devoid of the warmth and love he had taken for granted. His children are nowhere to be found, and his close-knit family is just a fragment of his imagination.

As Ethan navigates through this strange and lonely new existence, he begins to realize what truly matters in life. The luxurious single life that he thought he wanted pales in comparison to the love and companionship of his family. With Christmas approaching, there is an increasing sense of urgency for Ethan to somehow set things right and reclaim the joyous life he once had. The magic of Christmas is at play, and it's made clear that the holiday season is a time for miracles and second chances.

The movie delivers a delightful blend of comedic moments and tender scenes as Ethan scrambles to find a way to reverse his wish—interacting with familiar faces who no longer recognize him and witnessing the effects his absence has had on those he loves. His journey is one filled with self-discovery, rekindled love, and renewed appreciation for the simple blessings in life.

A Kiss Before Christmas is not just another romantic fantasy; it explores the consequences of taking one's blessings for granted and demonstrates the power of love and family. The film is imbued with holiday cheer and a hopeful message that resonates with viewers looking for that special seasonal uplift.

The festive settings and Christmas decor serve as a perfect backdrop for the unfolding story, contributing to the cozy and comforting atmosphere viewers seek during the holiday season. The narrative arc is engaging, interweaving themes of love, regret, and redemption, making A Kiss Before Christmas a film that tugs at the heartstrings and reinforces the importance of cherishing every moment with those we hold dear.

In conclusion, A Kiss Before Christmas is a holiday film that combines the allure of what-could-have-been with the endearing qualities of a family-centered Christmas story. It's a tale that encourages viewers to reflect on their own choices and the things that matter most in life. With a cast that brings warmth and depth to the characters, it's a film that fits snugly within the pantheon of seasonal favorites and is a delightful addition to the annual holiday movie marathon tradition.

A Kiss Before Christmas is a 2021 tv movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.