The Film Christmas, Again Film Review – A Relaxed Story of a Lonely Christmas Tree Seller Has Genuine Charm
This is 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 a micro-budget first feature from first-time director Charles Poekel, taking place largely on a 24-hour pop-up Christmas tree stall. Poekel’s style remains decidedly authentic-indie and naturalistic to get slushy or sentimental about Christmas; in his view Christmas tree lights blink like police lights. But with its subtle approach, he pitches his film perfectly for a modest dose of festive warmth.
A Jaded Seller in the Brooklyn Cold
Kentucker Audley portrays Noel (someone had in the film to comment on his name before I twigged). Noel returns for his fifth year selling Christmas trees in Brooklyn, working outdoors 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, broken-hearted and on the night shift.
There’s a documentary feel to many of the scenes, with customers posing pointless random questions. One woman wants 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 exhausted and disenchanted, though Audley’s understated acting clearly indicates that he hadn't always been like this.
Understated Encounters and Flickers of Connection
In truth, the plot is minimal. Noel comes to the aid of a woman, Lydia (Hannah Gross), who has collapsed drunk on a bench. She reappears later in some genuinely moving scenes as Noel travels through New York, making tree deliveries – and these moments could ignite 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 authenticity and fluidity, and it’s shot on gorgeously textured 16mm film.
The film of quiet appeal and authentic atmosphere, portraying the loneliness and brief connection of the holidays.
Christmas, Again arrives in UK cinemas from 12 December.
