A Christmas Switch Review: UPtv’s Holiday Movie is a Treat
If you are looking for a feel good, family friendly film to jumpstart your Christmas spirit then A Christmas Switch on UPtv is a treat. The film premieres this Sunday, November 4th.
Official synopsis: Christmas works its magic in this body-switching holiday take about two very different moms who find that help is where you least expect it and most need it. When struggling singer Audrey and wealthy record executive Julia collide at the mall, they wake up in each other’s lives the next morning. Audrey finds that, though Julia’s life is full of luxury, she’s missing the chance to connect with her family in any real way. Julia finds that though she gets plenty of family time, Audrey can’t say no to anyone, which gives her no time for herself. As Christmas looms closer, the two women rush to figure out how to both help each other and switch back before they miss Christmas morning with their own families!
While many films geared towards Christmas/Holiday messages fall into the trap of overselling the hope and magic of the season, A Christmas Switch manages to rise above and shine.
It’s a story of love, friendship, and family. Yes, all the makings of your typical Christmas film.
It even falls into the predictable holiday film formula at times. However, that predictability enhances the charm. After all, the formula works for a reason.
Where A Christmas Switch stands out is in the story. It’s centered on two working mothers trying their best to be fantastic moms.
This is not a story seen very often in this genre. It’s usually two young women switching lives in order to become a person they’re not. Or it’s about finding romantic love during the holiday season in order to find fulfillment in life.
With this film, the makings of fulfillment are already under the surface of each woman. They just have to take a look at each other’s lives in order to see it distinctly on their own.
It falls into the line of thinking where we get such inspirations as, “walk a mile in someone else’s shoes.” The film manages to do all of this without being over the top or too showy.
It isn’t hopeful and cheerful all the time. The thought that ‘believing in something hard enough will just make it happen’ never even enters the plot.
That’s another reason this movie is a holiday masterpiece.
Sure, it’s centered around the Christmas season but, the overall message is about life and family, not the holiday itself. These women switch lives to realize that they need to make small alterations in their lives in order to have long-lasting change.
It’s all about appreciating the little things, which is a message that weaves in and out in the background too.
Part of what makes this story fun and exciting is the adventures of Julia and Audrey. However, what’s even more fun is trying to find “Mrs. Nick” in almost all the major moments.
She is always lurking, and trying to spot her reminds you of the magic that is occurring in each of these moments. It’s not just a “holiday” magic, but also an emotional magic.
These women are creating lasting differences to not only themselves but the people around them. All because they are slowing down and taking time to appreciate the things that they have.
Another standout quality to A Christmas Switch are the performances themselves. Both Jackie Seiden and Ashley Wood carry the show with what seems like minimal effort.
They have a chemistry that truly makes us believe they were destined to be friends and a part of each other’s lives. Even when they are complete strangers the chemistry sparks and carries their interactions. It’s clear they need each other.
However, they aren’t the only performances of note. There are also the shining stars in young Cleary Herzlinger and Oana Gregory. These two remarkable young ladies play each woman’s daughter.
Despite their actual character story, these actresses show the world just why we should believe in them. Even the grouchiest of Scrooges or Grinches won’t be able to resist Herzlinger’s charm and Gregory’s warmth. Both will make your heart grow bigger with each moment.
All in all this film is a perfect way to bridge the gap between young and old, mothers and daughters, family and friends this holiday season. So pop some popcorn, gather some string, sit around the fire, and enjoy this timeless film.
A Christmas Switch premieres Sunday, November 4th at 7/6c on UPtv.
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Mads Misasi
Mads is a part-time entertainment journalist and full-time marketing content creator. They love any and all TV Dramas with a few sitcoms mixed in. Join in the fun talking about TV by following them on Twitter: @dorothynyc89.