The Film Christmas, Again Review – This Laidback Tale of a Lonely Christmas Tree Seller Boasts Genuine Charm
This constitutes a New York drama with such a relaxed pace that it required a decade to reach the UK’s cinema screens. First released in the US in 2015, it’s an ultra-low-budget debut from debut filmmaker Charles Poekel, taking place largely on a 24-hour pop-up Christmas tree stall. Poekel’s style is far too authentic-indie and naturalistic to get slushy or sentimental about Christmas; in his view Christmas tree lights flash like police lights. But in its own low-key way, he pitches his film just right for a little squeeze of festive warmth.
The Weary Seller in the Brooklyn Cold
Kentucker Audley stars as Noel (someone had in the film to comment on his name before I twigged). Noel is back for his fifth year peddling Christmas trees in Brooklyn, standing outside in the freezing cold and resting in a barely warmer caravan stationed beside the trees. Several patrons ask about the girl working with him last year. But this year Noel works solo, broken-hearted and working the night shift.
There’s an observational quality to a lot of the scenes, with customers asking idle and peculiar questions. A customer requests the same Christmas tree as the Obamas (this is 2014). Noel looks numb with cold physically and emotionally; he’s exhausted and disenchanted, though Audley’s understated acting clearly indicates that he hadn't always been like this.
Understated Encounters and Glimmers of Connection
In truth, the plot is minimal. Noel rescues a woman, Lydia (Hannah Gross), who has passed out drunk on a bench. She reappears later in some genuinely moving 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 – it is unmatched for naturalness and ease, and it’s shot on gorgeously textured 16mm film.
A picture of understated appeal and real mood, portraying the loneliness and fleeting connection of the season.
Christmas, Again opens in UK cinemas from 12 December.
