The Film Christmas, Again Film Review – This Relaxed Story of a Lonely Christmas Tree Seller Boasts Genuine Charm
This constitutes a New York drama so laidback that it has taken a decade to reach the UK’s cinema screens. Initially unveiled in the US in 2015, it’s a micro-budget first feature from debut filmmaker Charles Poekel, taking place largely on a 24-hour pop-up Christmas tree stall. Poekel’s style is far too genuinely independent and unaffected to get slushy or sentimental about Christmas; through his lens Christmas tree lights flash like police lights. But with its subtle approach, he pitches his film perfectly for a modest dose of festive warmth.
The Weary Seller in the Brooklyn Cold
Kentucker Audley portrays Noel (it took someone in the film to joke about his name for the connection to be made). Noel is back for his fifth year peddling Christmas trees in Brooklyn, standing outside in the freezing cold and sleeping in a not-much-warmer caravan stationed beside the trees. Several patrons ask about the girl working with him last year. But this year Noel works solo, heartbroken and working the night shift.
There’s a documentary feel to many of the scenes, with customers posing idle and peculiar questions. A customer requests the same Christmas tree as the Obamas (the story is set in 2014). Noel looks frozen to the bone in body and spirit; he’s weary and disillusioned, though Audley’s subtle performance clearly indicates that he wasn’t always like this.
Quiet Moments and Flickers of Hope
In truth, the plot is minimal. Noel rescues a woman, Lydia (Hannah Gross), who has passed out drunk on a bench. She pops up again later in truly poignant scenes as Noel drives around New York, delivering trees – and these moments could spark a small glimmer of good cheer even in the most cynical viewer. Poekel has not directed a feature since this, which is a shame – you can’t beat it for authenticity and fluidity, and it’s filmed on gorgeously textured 16mm film.
The film of understated charm and real atmosphere, portraying the loneliness and brief warmth of the holidays.
Christmas, Again arrives in UK cinemas from 12 December.
