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‘A Very Vermont Christmas’ Review: Katie Leclerc Brings Early Holiday Spirit in This Joyful Hallmark Movie

‘A Very Vermont Christmas’ is a love story between Joy and Zac set against the backdrop of the Christmas season

Contains spoilers for ‘A Very Vermont Christmas’

VERMONT, NEW ENGLAND: ‘A Very Vermont Christmas’ premieres on Hallmark on July 20, 2024. The joyful holiday film gave viewers a dose of holiday spirit with an optimistic story that touches on themes of grief and forgiveness in a subtle way.

The film follows Joy Keogh (Katie Leclerc) as she takes it upon herself to bring her parents’ pub, Mogul’s Joe, back to its former glory days. She and her mother, Mary Keogh (Joanna Herrington), have a special IPA for the holidays that they’re pinning their hopes on with a special ingredient that only a few people close to Joy know about.

However, the ingredient leaks and reaches her completion at Frosty’s, owned by her ex-boyfriend Greg Harris (John Forest), who is angry after their breakup and wants to bring down Mogul’s Joe. She finds help from a charming new suitor, Zac Chase (Ryan McPartlin), a beer distributor for her competitor, Frosty’s.

The film creates a beautiful world around the characters and tells a heartfelt story. Here is a detailed review of the film.

‘A Very Vermont Christmas’ is a simple and recognizable story

A still from 'A Very Vermont Christmas' (@hallmark)
A still from ‘A Very Vermont Christmas’ (@hallmark)

Often the stories that connect most with an audience feel relatable and are told simply without any complex elements coming into play. This story and its characters are people that the audience can connect with immediately.

The whole Christmas atmosphere is also beautifully created in this film and that adds to the whole festive feeling of the film. From the beautiful snowy landscapes to the community vibe around the holidays, ‘A Very Vermont Christmas’ tells an intimate story that encompasses human emotions and hits right where it belongs

The addition of skiing as a plot point works beautifully for the film, as it adds a unique layer to the characters and story. The writers have done a fantastic job of building a cinematic storyline that feels simple, yet says a lot

Katie Leclerc and Ryan McPartlin Steal the Show in ‘A Very Vermont Christmas’

A still from 'A Very Vermont Christmas' (@hallmark)
A still from ‘A Very Vermont Christmas’ (@hallmark)

The film is about a pub and the competition, but it wouldn’t be complete without the love story of Zac and Joy. And Katie and Ryan bring out the best in those two characters.

Their chemistry from the moment they meet to the last shot of the film is adorable and will have viewers raving about their cuteness. They share a vulnerable moment in the film where they talk about losing their fathers and that has to be the best scene in the film. It adds so much to Joy’s motives and gives a glimpse into her mind and insecurities.

John Forest deserves a special mention as Greg, because he is the ideal antagonist. He is a man you would love to hate and ultimately love for the performance he delivers.

‘A Very Vermont Christmas’ has a subliminal message

A still from 'A Very Vermont Christmas' (@hallmark)
A still from ‘A Very Vermont Christmas’ (@hallmark)

While telling a wonderfully intriguing story, the makers also manage to subliminally touch on some important aspects of life. The idea of ​​forgiveness and trust in those you love comes to the fore while watching this film.

The film is a perfect mix of a clear story and an important feel-good film that will stay with the viewers for a long time. The film has a light running time, but never feels rushed because of the attention to detail in every scene of the film.

Trailer for ‘A Very Vermont Christmas’



‘A Very Vermont Christmas’ is available to stream on Hallmark