Some reviews for these types of movies come across so harsh. Sure they're predictable but, isn't that what we're looking for when we tune in to Hallmark movies? They give us exactly what we want, a happy ending with two people finding a way to be together. We watch them not because we expect them to appear on the next Oscar ballot, but because we want to escape the world for a bit, drink something warm & smile cause it worked out exactly how we wanted in the end, which is a nice change from reality.

Not only is the love interest in this movie extremely difficult to root for, but the heroine contradicts herself constantly and ends up choosing the wrong man! In other words, parts of The Sweetest Christmas is just like real life.At the start of the film, we're introduced to Lacey Chabert and her boyfriend Mar Andersons. He's too focused on his work and seems to only value her work ethic and contributions to "the team", so she breaks up with him. Then, she's reunited with an old flame from high school, single dad Lea Coco, and sparks fly. The only problem is Lea also lets work take his first priority, and he also only appreciates her inner qualities, like how she interacts with his son and her ambition and creativity at work. I got the distinct impression that the audience isn't really supposed to notice the similarities. It is realistic, though; how many times do we find a new main squeeze who's exactly like our ex and we claim that "this one's totally different!"? There's absolutely no chemistry between Lacey and Lea, and the only good part of the movie is the best friend and comic relief, Jonathan Adams. He's absolutely hilarious and even ad libs when Lea spills his coffee on him during one scene. To top everything off, Lacey utters the corniest, most ridiculous line in Hallmark history: "I have to show him how I feel, the best way I know how: with gingerbread." Trust me, you don't have to sit through this one. Watch Family for Christmas instead.

There is really nothing bad to say about this movie. Lea Coco looks like my dentist...all I could really think about. Things fall into place. I can live with the baking theme. Lacey Chabert is cute enough and all good. Good all around cast. Setting..typical...Ralphie is a treat.

Not sure if it's a 7 Star, but it's close. It's a nice, brand new heartwarming Christmas movie. Who doesn't like Lacey Chabert? She's the one who deserves the 7 Stars, for sure. I'm a big fan of hers on these Hallmark movies. She's got that Hallmark charm I love. And wow, those gingerbread creations were just amazing. Who does that? I've never created a gingerbread house or whatever for that matter. Some day, I might think about it. Maybe when two heads are in it together. That will be the day. Until then, it's only in film. Great 2017 holiday chick flick from Hallmark!