Watch The Christmas Wife

The Christmas Wife is a heartwarming made-for-TV movie from 1988 that tells the story of a widowed man named John Tanner (Jason Robards), who has been spending Christmas alone since the death of his wife. Every year at this time, he visits a remote cabin where he and his wife used to go on their honeymoon, but this year he decides to invite a complete stranger, a young woman named Iris (Julie Harris), to keep him company.

When Iris arrives, John is surprised to see that she knows a lot about his wife, and that she seems to be the perfect companion for him. Over the next few days, they spend time together, bonding over their shared memories of loved ones who have passed away, and reminiscing about their younger years. They also share a love of books, and spend hours reading poetry and literature to each other.

Despite their age difference, John and Iris find that they have a lot in common, and they begin to develop a deep and meaningful friendship. But as Christmas Day approaches, John starts to worry that Iris will leave him, just like everyone else in his life has. He begins to push her away, and tries to convince her to leave early, but Iris has a surprise in store for him that will change everything.

The Christmas Wife is a touching story that explores themes of grief, loneliness, and the power of human connection. The performances are strong and heartfelt, particularly by Jason Robards, who brings a depth and warmth to his portrayal of John. Julie Harris is also excellent as Iris, bringing a quiet strength and compassion to her role.

The movie also features some beautiful cinematography, capturing the snowy landscapes, cozy fires, and tender moments between the two characters. The cabin in which they stay is a character in itself, a place of refuge and solace where they can escape from the outside world and find comfort in each other's company.

One of the strengths of the movie is its understated approach to storytelling. There are no big Hollywood moments or over-the-top melodrama. Instead, the movie focuses on the small details of human interaction, exploring the nuances of grief and loss with sensitivity and grace. The script by Catherine Ann Jones is understated and poetic, with a beautiful dialogue that feels natural and authentic.

The Christmas Wife is a beautiful film that captures the spirit of the holiday season in a way that is both timeless and universal. It reminds us of the importance of human connection, and the power of love to heal even the deepest wounds. It's a movie that will make you laugh, cry, and feel grateful for the people in your life who make it worth living. Overall, it is a must-watch for anyone looking for a moving and heartwarming Christmas story.

The Christmas Wife is a 1988 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 13 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.