A Princess For Christmas Film Review (2011)
Some movies are like hot cocoa. Perfect for watching on a cold winter’s night (or a balmy summer afternoon), the story is smooth and enjoyable. While it can be a little corny at times, A Princess For Christmas is one such film. Known in England as Christmas at Castlebury Hall, the movie stars Sam Heughan (from Outlander) as the charming Prince Ashton, Roger Moore (James Bond) as his father the Duke, and Katie McGrath (from Merlin) as Jules Daly.
A Princess For Christmas follows Jules Daly, an antique expert from Buffalo, New York. She is struggling to raise her niece and nephew, Maddie and Milo, after the death of their parents almost a year before. When the children’s grandfather, the Duke of Castlebury, invites them all to stay with him for Christmas, Jules reluctantly agrees. The Duke had cut off communication with his son, Charles after he married Jules’ sister, and the children are still missing their parents.
When the three arrive in England, Jules is not thrilled. Christmas has been forbidden, and everyone is grieving. However, Jules is determined to make Christmas magical for Milo and Maddy. In the process, the three melt the heart of the cranky duke, and Jules might just be winning the heart of the prince, her brother-in-law Ashton.
With the magic of Christmas and Jules’ infectious glee, the family begins to heal while Ashton and Jules beginning to fall for each other. However, Jules is an American with no title. Ashton is a prince with a would-be fiance. Will history repeat itself? Or will misunderstandings drive them apart?
A Princess For Christmas is the perfect mix of a sweet and funny story. Milo is a realistic teenager, and Maddy is adorable. Roger Moore as the Duke is delightfully cranky. Jules and Ashton are also both wonderful characters played by talented actors. As a whole, the romance is a nicely paced love story. Furthermore, the relationship between Jules and Ashton did not seem too rushed.
I do have a few issues with this movie, however. Sometimes, the dialogue sounds a little forced. This took me out of the movie and back into reality. And at times, some of the accents can be a difficult to understand. Most importantly, Jules’ sister is never given a name. This really bothers me.
Otherwise, the music is the right mix of soothing and sassy. The set in A Princess For Christmas is wonderful. I found myself wanting to live in Castlebury. Overall, this movie is one that will sweep you off of your feet. It can be cheesy but in the best possible way. If you like movies about princesses, families, grief, romance, or Christmas, I’d recommend giving A Princess For Christmas a watch.
OVERALL RATING
“You had me at hello”
ROMANCE RATING
“You pierce my soul. I am half agony, half hope.
I have loved none but you.”
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