The Film Christmas, Again Film Review – A Laidback Story of a Lonely Christmas Tree Seller Boasts Authentic Charm
The is a New York drama with such a relaxed pace that it required a decade to reach the UK’s cinema screens. Initially unveiled in the US in 2015, it’s an ultra-low-budget debut from first-time director Charles Poekel, set almost entirely on a 24-hour pop-up Christmas tree stall. Poekel’s style remains decidedly genuinely independent and naturalistic to become slushy or sentimental about Christmas; through his lens Christmas tree lights flash like police lights. But in its own low-key way, he pitches his film just right for a modest dose of festive warmth.
The Weary Seller in the Brooklyn Cold
Kentucker Audley portrays Noel (someone had in the film to joke about his name before I twigged). Noel is back for his fifth year selling Christmas trees in Brooklyn, standing outside in the freezing cold and sleeping in a barely warmer caravan parked next to the trees. A few customers inquire after 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 a lot of the scenes, with customers posing pointless random questions. A customer wants the same Christmas tree as the Obamas (the story is set in 2014). Noel looks numb with cold physically and emotionally; he’s exhausted and disenchanted, though Audley’s understated acting makes it clear that he hadn't always been like this.
Understated Encounters and Flickers of Hope
Frankly, not much happens. Noel rescues a woman, Lydia (Hannah Gross), who has collapsed drunk on a bench. She reappears later in truly poignant scenes as Noel travels through New York, making tree deliveries – and these sequences could spark a small glimmer of good cheer even in the most cynical viewer. Poekel hasn’t made a feature since this, which is regrettable – it is unmatched for authenticity and fluidity, and it’s shot on gorgeously textured 16mm film.
A picture of quiet appeal and real mood, capturing the loneliness and brief connection of the holidays.
Christmas, Again arrives in UK cinemas from 12 December.
