The Holiday Calendar

The Holiday Calendar, released in 2018, is a magical, heartwarming Christmas-themed movie that encapsulates the festival's charm brilliantly. The film, directed by Bradley Walsh, stars Kat Graham, Quincy Brown, and Ethan Peck in pivotal roles.

Kat Graham plays Abby Sutton, a talented but underappreciated photographer who is stuck in a lackluster job at a photo studio. Abby aspires to open her own photography studio but is held back by her fear of the unknown and the financial risks involved. This character resonates with anyone who has faced the dilemma of choosing between nurturing their passion or sticking to a secured job that might not necessarily be fulfilling.

All of this changes when Abby's grandfather, played by Ron Cephas Jones, gives her an antique advent calendar just before the advent of the holiday season. The calendar, as Abby soon discovers, isn't your usual, everyday Christmas calendar. It's a magical entity that predicts the future. Every time a door of the calendar opens, it reveals a small trinket relating to an event that soon happens in Abby's life.

This plot addition provides an element of mystique and intrigue that draws the audience in, providing escapism and creating anticipation for Abby's unfolding future events. Every day, as Abby opens a new door on the calendar, viewers find themselves equally engrossed, waiting to see how the newfound prophecy might translate into real life.

Romantic tensions ignite as Abby’s best friend, Josh, played by Quincy Brown, comes back to town. Josh, a travel blogger, returns home after a world tour, and the two reconnect. However, Abby is initially drawn to a handsome, successful doctor, Ty, portrayed by Ethan Peck, who she meets serendipitously. The calendar seems to hint towards a romantic future with Ty.

However, the film is not just about an enchanted calendar and the love triangle. It’s also about Abby finding herself amidst the chaos and dilemmas of her personal and professional life. It's about making bold choices, understanding the value of family and friendship, and most importantly, believing in the magic of Christmas and the hope it brings.

Throughout the movie, the characters traverse through a mosaic of emotions -- from joy, anticipation, confusion, heartbreak to reconciliation. The film adeptly portrays the spirit of the holiday season, making it an enjoyable watch during Christmas or even otherwise if one wants to indulge in a feel-good flick.

Kat Graham’s portrayal of Abby is remarkable. She creates a character that is both believable and relatable, embodying Abby's struggles and joys convincingly. Quincy Brown's portrayal of Josh as the supportive best friend waiting in the wings is charming and endearing.

Ethan Peck's character Ty, the handsome doctor, adds a delightful twist to the plot. The character dynamics of Abby, Josh, and Ty create engaging, sometimes complicated, various relationships that serve as the heart of the storyline.

The supporting cast, including Genrene Mollica as Abby's supportive sister, Sarah, Laura De Carteret as her empathetic boss, Judy, and Kevin Hanchard as kindly Mayor Patel, contribute to the depth and warmth in the story.

The charming town setting, complete with its snowfalls, festive decorations, and overall cheer, helps create the perfect ambiance for this holiday-themed movie. The cinematography wonderfully captures the wintry charm that is synonymous with Christmas and the holiday season. The background score complements the mood of the film, adding to the festive feel.

The Holiday Calendar is a delightful film that imparts a warm, fuzzy feeling, perfect for the holiday season. It has all the elements of a captivating Christmas movie - a touch of magic, a sprinkling of romance, an inspiring journey towards self-discovery, and above all, the joyous spirit of the holidays.