I usually love this kind of formulaic movie and watch them in a knowing but uncritical way, but I found it really hard to get past the director casting himself as the romantic lead opposite a woman 16 years younger. His heavy makeup doesn't help make it less weird, I just kept staring at his eyeliner.

I think if he'd cast someone 15 years older as his opposite it would have been a more convincing romance, and she would have been a more convincing character. We're supposed to believe she's a well-known and experienced pastry chef, so it would have fitted the character well to be a bit older.

Anyway, aside from the leads being casting missteps it's ok, the rest of the cast are fine and I've had a soft spot for Colin Mochrie ever since 'Who's Line is it Anyway?' so it was nice to see him.

It's pretty much what you signed up for in terms of plot. The cranky person is cranky, the little child is cute, the comic relief is comic - the formula does it's job. The drama features particularly low stakes, but it's still friendly and warm and has lots of bells in the music, garland in the decorations, and a scene where people make gingerbread.

And of course there's a cute little snowy town, but I've noticed that all the Hallmark Christmas movies seems to be using the same unconvincing snow special effect this year - I guess they want to get the most out of the plugin they bought for After Effects!

Great cast! I just saw Cory Lee in very different role - A Christmas Masquerade (2022) and I love Yannick Bisson from his years on both Murdock Mysteries and Sue Thomas FBEye. Janet Eastwood is always a joy; I wish she'd have her own romance story for us seniors! Yes, the lead actress could have been a tad older to support her character's level of experience but it still worked. Yannick's acting/directing/writing experience showed throughout the movie and every scene he was included. There was a level of maturity that elevated this plot above the silliness of others Christmas movies. I loved the idea of sharing recipes and longtime friendships. Thoroughly Enjoyed!