Much of my work lately has taken place behind the scenes, but I’ve missed sharing my own thoughts with readers. That’s why I’m starting Christmas From the Heart, a seasonal feature spotlighting holiday movies and shows that make an impression on me. And Great American Family’s A Second Chance Christmas, starring Candace Cameron Bure and Jonathan Scarfe, feels like a fitting place to begin.
The Story — Without Spoilers
Anna and James Campbell have been divorced for five years. When plans bring them both to a family cabin in Townsend, Tennessee, ahead of a Christmas gathering with their adult children, an ice storm traps them together. With travel and communication disrupted, the former spouses revisit familiar traditions, old misunderstandings, and the people they’ve become since their marriage ended.
It’s a Christmas romance, certainly, but one that begins with an established history rather than an adorable first meeting. That difference matters.
Why This Movie Hit Close to Home
I’ve experienced divorce myself, so I connected with this story in a way I might not have otherwise. Divorce can carry grief, disappointment, and questions that don’t resolve neatly. I appreciated seeing a movie willing to acknowledge a broken marriage while exploring the possibility that two people might grow, take responsibility, and see each other differently.
Of course, reconciliation isn’t right or possible for every divorced couple. But in this particular story, I appreciated the hope that meaningful change and forgiveness might open a door neither person expected.
Faith That Felt Genuine
One of the film’s greatest strengths, for me, was the faith element. It didn’t feel like a message attached to the story after the fact. Instead, faith seemed genuinely connected to the characters’ growth, humility, and willingness to revisit the past.
I value entertainment that can explore Christian faith naturally without sacrificing the humanity or complexity of its characters. That was a major reason this movie resonated with me. It’s also part of what I appreciate about Great American Family’s commitment to faith- and family-centered storytelling.
Performances, Chemistry, and Imperfect Characters
I’ve always appreciated Jonathan Scarfe’s performances, so I was a little surprised that his portrayal of James initially felt somewhat restrained. However, as the story unfolded, I found myself appreciating his performance more and more. In retrospect, I wonder whether that initial reserve was an intentional choice reflecting his character’s emotional distance.
It also took me a little time to warm up to Anna. But I came to appreciate Candace Cameron Bure’s portrayal of a perfectionist whose flaws help us better understand both her personality and the relationship. Neither character felt immediately easy to embrace, and I think that gave their journey more depth.
By the end, I enjoyed their chemistry and felt more invested in both characters than I did at the beginning.
And can we talk about the older couple? What a delight! I especially loved seeing Chris Wood and B.J. Harrison, two performers whose work I’ve long enjoyed. Their presence brought additional warmth to the film.
A Creative Choice I Don’t Want to Spoil
The flashbacks were one of my favorite aspects of the movie. More specifically, I loved the clever way the filmmakers used them to deepen our understanding of the characters. I won’t explain the device, because discovering it is part of the fun. But it added strength to both the storytelling and the character development.
Giving Credit to the Storytellers Behind the Camera
A film like this depends on much more than its two leading actors. I want to recognize writers Taylor Kalupa and Masey McLain for a story that gave a mature relationship space to be complicated, and directors Paula Elle and Alton Glass for bringing that journey to the screen. The structure of the flashbacks especially stood out to me as a viewer.
The film is a Syrup Studios production in association with CandyRock Entertainment. Great American Media’s production announcement credits Jordan Smysniuk as producer and names executive producers Candace Cameron Bure, Jeffery Brooks, Ford Englerth, Tim Owens, Eric Jarboe, Holly A. Hines, Paula Elle, Jameson Parker, and Trevor McWhinney. It also credits Michael Shepard and Jonathan Shore as supervising producers and Trudi Thorwaldson as associate producer.
I love seeing the people behind these stories recognized. From the script and direction to the work of the entire production team, it takes many creative hands to make a movie that viewers remember.
Watch the Official Trailer
Watch the official trailer on YouTube if the player doesn’t appear on your device.
Final Thoughts: 90 Out of 100
A Second Chance Christmas was a meaningful beginning to the 2026 Great American Christmas season. I loved the authentic faith element, the mature perspective on marriage and reconciliation, the gradually deepening performances, the supporting characters, and especially the inventive flashback storytelling.
The beginning took a little time to win me over, so it wasn’t quite a perfect movie for me. But by the end, I was glad I’d spent time with Anna and James. Their story left me thinking about forgiveness, growth, and the possibility of new beginnings.
My rating: 90/100. Highly recommended!
Let’s Talk Christmas Movies!
Have you watched A Second Chance Christmas? How did you feel about Anna and James, the faith element, and the creative storytelling? Please keep the comments spoiler-free for readers who haven’t watched yet!
I’ll be sharing more favorite holiday films and television specials through Christmas From the Heart. I’m so glad to be talking entertainment with you again.
Movie Details & Credits
- Title: A Second Chance Christmas (2026; previously announced as One More Christmas)
- Network: Great American Family; available on Great American Pure Flix
- Great American Family premiere: October 10, 2026
- Starring: Candace Cameron Bure (Anna Campbell) and Jonathan Scarfe (James Campbell)
- Also featuring: Chris Wood, B.J. Harrison and Peter Bryant
- Directors: Paula Elle and Alton Glass
- Written by: Taylor Kalupa and Masey McLain
- Production: Syrup Studios in association with CandyRock Entertainment
- Producer: Jordan Smysniuk
More information: Official Great American Family movie page • Great American Media production announcement
