Stranded at an airport at Christmas-time, ASHLEY DAVISON accepts a ride from DASH SUTHERLAND, who has just rented the last car in town. Ashley sells crafts for a living, while Dash is supposedly a house painter. Although they initially clash, romance soon blossoms during their journey — but the fact that Dash is a secret FBI agent who has been assigned to monitor Ashley, a suspected enemy insurgent, may ultimately put a crimp in their fledgling relationship… 

Debbie Macomber

No review of Debbie Macomber’s works can happen without a nod to the author herself. Finally, I can state that I had the supreme joy of meeting Debbie in person just a little over a month ago. In fact, I have this very book (signed by Debbie herself) resting on my shelf, but I have been so swamped this month with reviews that I have not had an opportunity to read it. Thankfully, Hallmark chose to turn her delightful story into an amazing film, and a phenomenal film it is too! When it comes to modern authors, I still maintain that Debbie rates in my top five. I know that every time I pick up one of her books, I will read a heartfelt story with a unique twist here and there. Her characters are as real as she is, and her Christmas stories are some of my all-time favorites. So thank you, Debbie, for spinning this tale and then permitting Hallmark transform it into a new holiday classic that the entire family will enjoy.

One additional item–this film features an incredible amount of fine actors, and I did my best to mention each one that I could, and I apologize in advance for those I missed, Again, only the main couple is the focus of most Hallmark publicity, but this is one time when my research skills paid off in a big way.

Linda Darlow, Meghan Ory, Andrew Walker Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

If you study this actress closely, you might realize you have seen her in various roles throughout Hallmark and other networks. Linda Darlow plays an unnamed woman who is only featured in this scene, and as you can see, she has two of the most spoiled dogs in her cart. We might tag her as the “dog lady,” and she is the one who makes an assumption to which the main couple have a potent(but diverse) reaction. So watch out for this versatile lady as you never know where she might pop up again in other works.

Alfonso Quijada, Meghan Ory, Edwin Perez Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

Yet another memorable scene and a familiar (perhaps) face. In fact, I have seen Alfonso featured in many roles on numerous shows and films (another First Wave and NYC: Tornado Terror alumnus!), and towards the end of this film, you will see him dancing with the lovely Meghan, so anticipate his appearance lest you miss this seasoned professional. He certainly deserves an honorable mention, for it is often these minor roles that make films like this soar with such impeccable finesse.

Aleks Paunovic as Blade

As I reviewed the resume of Aleks, I recognized many of his works, but I realized I had never seen them. So I will call this my first official time seeing his imposing personage on the screen, and he made his character of Blade quite significant.  Who can forget the big guy (who intimidated Andrew’s character) who rescued the puppies along the side of the road?

Meghan Ory, Aleks Paunovic Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

It seems like Aleks may often be typecast as a bad guy, but in this film, he isn’t. He is the benevolent guy who only wants a reliable home for these winsome puppies. His scene is about as ingenious as they come.

Aubrey Arnason as Waitress

As the unnamed waitress, we are indulged by this fairly attractive and novel actress–Aubrey Arnason. While her part is mild and fleeting, I have a feeling that in the future, this gal may be appearing in more substantial roles. After all, not everyone can make a waitress fascinating, courteous, and even witty.

Enid-Raye Adams as E. Cary

If you have sharp eyes and a quick memory, you might remember seeing Enid-Raye in Murder She Baked this past summer, but I am afraid that is the only time I have seen her previously. Nonetheless, as the efficient, emotionless airline attendant, she is ideal. Even when under pressure, she doesn’t shatter. She keeps her demeanor calm, cool, and collected.

Jake Guy (Travis), Rohan Campbell (Justin)

Rachel Prosch (Bailey Thompson)

These three must be highlighted as a group because they comprise the secondary (but essential) storyline. As the kid who is not endeavoring to get in trouble, Jake is almost too convincing as Travis. Most notable in his resume so far is Ties that Bind, but I have a feeling that we have not seen the last of him. As his friend who gets lassoed into questionable maneuvers, Rohan plays the hapless Justin. The two of these boys together are a satisfying departure from the main story, but how it all links together is even more crafty. Add in Rachel’s portrayal of Bailey, and we suddenly understand why Travis is so willing to participate in unusually risky behavior. Viewers might remember her from Ties that Bind as well.

Aaron Craven (Agent Monroe), Rukiya Bernard (Agent Hobbs)

This duo might be pretty readily recognized from other works, and as the main FBI agents, they are perfect. Aaron was most recently featured on Ties the Bind (seems like a common theme in this cast), and as the suspicious Agent Monroe, he is a classic fit. I remembered Rukiya from Accidental Obsession, and Gourmet Detective, and I am honestly quite a fan of her work. In fact, she is easily my favorite of the FBI agents because she is shrewd, savvy, and strong (and she’s a woman–always love female agents in a “man’s world).

Amitai Marmorstein as Agent Phelps

However, I have to admit to possessing a special place in my heart for the bungling Agent Phelps as played by Amitai. While I may have seen this actor in passing in other works, this is the role for which I shall remember him.  He is the junior agent who is attempting to prove himself, and through a series of mishaps, he may struggle to accomplish that mission. I enjoyed his humorous take on this agent, and I hope to see him in another beguiling role soon.

Ben Wilkinson as a Frustrated Passenger

I probably would have overlooked Ben had it not been for the fact that I actually recognized him from My Mother’s Future Husband. And although he has a small role, he unquestionably makes the most of it.  So don’t blink in the beginning, lest you miss his entertaining gesticulations.

Andrew Walker (Dash), Meghan Ory (Ashley Harrison) Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

Of course, no one can deny that at the very core of this story is this couple–Dash and Ashley. If it were not for the strength of their performances and their captivating chemistry, I do believe this movie might have become insipid. And gratefully, their outstanding performances are what impel this clever Yuletide story to its dizzying conclusion.

Andrew Walker, Meghan Ory Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

Of course, this is Debbie Macomber and Hallmark, and that means the viewers are guaranteed a magical performance filled with the genuine meaning of Christmas with a plethora of humorous and emotional highlights along the way.  I especially reveled in the interactions between these two. Ashley has my penchant for old films (loved all the It Happened One Night references), and I was delighted to witness the way each character opened each other up in unusual ways.

Andrew Walker, Meghan Ory, Rukiya Bernard Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

I strongly urge you to not give up five minutes before the film is over because you might just miss the little surprises that lead to the scintillating conclusion. Both are inexplicably drawn to each other and fall in love without even apprehending it, but because of complications (that would be uproariously humorous if it were not for the fact that they drive this couple apart), Hallmark constrains us to wait till the final moment, so please don’t despair. After all, with Hallmark, it is never the ending where the true story lies; it is the meandering journey to the inevitable finale.

Meghan Ory, Andrew Walker Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

Everyone who encounters this couple knows they are the consummate match. And that dynamic, complex, and amusing chemistry between Meghan and Andrew focuses my attention on them almost to the exclusion of all else.  The way in which their stories unfold to each other is also unique and diverting as we feel like we don’t understand their story almost until the end. In fact, the relationship these two share on screen is closer to what a real couple might experience in real life (but probably at a much slower rate, but then again…).

Andrew Walker, Meghan Ory Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

The inclusion of the puppy “Young Blade” makes the story even more enchanting and involving. However, I must tip my hat to Andrew and Meghan as they are not threatened by the cuteness of this puppy.  They are quite content to let the puppy steal the scene when necessary, and I think that causes this puppy to appear so serene and have such a gentle disposition. In fact, it would appear that Young Blade has become an additional appendage to Meghan’s character as she is rarely without the puppy.

Meghan Ory Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

Definitely no stranger to Hallmark nor to the screen, I just cannot say enough about Meghan as Ashley. I recall her most recent role from The Memory Book, and I remember how much I liked her in that. However, her role is even more delightful in this film.  I adore the fact that she has infused her character with all the cocky confidence of a modern woman, but when it comes down to it, she retains some of those old-fashioned sensibilities.

Meghan Ory Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

She wants a man who will love her for who she is and is fully upfront about everything.  She has a soft spot for animals, and she views the world as her father taught her–there are no disabilities. I also find it refreshing that she is a knitter (a definite nod to Debbie), and her dreams include turning this talent into a massive business.

Meghan Ory Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

With Ashley, no matter what some may think or say, what you see is what you get. And it is Meghan’s intrepid portrayal that causes Ashley to live and breathe in such a way that the audience only wants the absolute best for her no matter what.

Andrew Walker Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

Now, if you are a regular Hallmark viewer, I daresay you have seen Andrew in a variety of roles, and he just has that certain quality that causes an instant connection. Without a doubt, every role in which I have seen him, I have automatically savored his depiction–he never has to win me over. As Dash, he immerses himself so admirably into this role that we concede he truly is this secretive man. Maybe he really is an ax murderer as Ashley suggests, but then again, how could he be with that face?

Meghan Ory, Andrew Walker Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States, LLC/Photographer: Eike Schroter

No matter what role in which Andrew is cast, he plays it effortlessly and impeccably, and this is easily my preferred role for him so far. He always handles his leading ladies with class and sometimes a bit of humor on the side. I believe it may be Dash who falls for Ashley first, and he allows his conscience to be his guide. When we are worried that the inevitable may occur, we sympathize with the depth of emotion Andrew’s character conveys through his entire being, for Andrew is a master actor for sure. Did I mention he’s also exceptionally handsome? Indeed, Andrew is one of the mainstays of the Hallmark brand, and whenever he is cast in a film, his role is sure to resonate with viewers.

If you get a chance to see this film, I highly recommend it as it will remind you that faith, love, charity, and hope are essential qualities this holiday season. After all, if one believes in Santa Claus, he/she must be a good person, right?

For more information:

http://www.hallmarkmoviesandmysteries.com/debbie-macombers-dashing-through-the-snow

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