The Christmas Candle (2013)

not horrible nor great

if their story seems completely bonkers, almost like a feverish work of fiction, you ain't heard nothing yet.

This is one of the few movies I've ever seen where the whole audience broke into spontaneous, loud applause a third of the way in.

A clunky actioner with a handful of cool moments.

Plot In A Paragraph: In the heart of the English countryside lies the village of Gladbury. Legend has it every 25 years an angel visits the village candlemaker and touches a single candle. Whoever lights this candle receives a miracle on Christmas Eve. But in 1890, at the dawn of the electric age, this centuries old legend may come to an end. When David Richmond (Hans Matheson), a young minister, arrives in Gladbury, the villagers discover a new formula for miracles: good deeds and acts of kindness. While David's quest to modernize Gladbury sets him at odds with the old world candlemaker (Sylvester McCoy) he finds an unlikely ally in the lovely skeptic, Emily Barstow (Samantha Barks). Now, the fiery candlemaker must fight to preserve the legacy of the Christmas Candle. Not sure why I've read so much hate about this movie, it has some good performances especially Barks, McCoy and John Hannah. Susan Boyle is here too, and she performs admirably. It's far from perfect but it was a pleasant way to spend a cold winters afternoon.I have loved Samantha Barks since I first seen her in "Les Miserables" I think she is both gorgeous and talented, and will continue to look out for her work.

Great to see a positive movie come out about Christmas before Christmas. I highly recommend this movie. The story line is terrific. Actors are great. Classy, inspirational, a great movie to go out and see with an entire family. As pricey as going out to the movies is nowadays--this movie is worth every penny. Great work producers! I am glad I went out and saw this movie. Everyone I went with thought this movies is great. I took a risk with some many BAD movies being made these days I mean movies that are retarded I took a chance and it paid off. I am glad that I did. This movie has the potential of becoming a Christmas Favorite Classic. Great children and family movie.

Great movie. Our whole family went to see this wonderful film. A big hit! Wonderfully cast. We loved the story of hope and miracles. We will suggest it to everyone. I will certainly buy it and we can watch every Christmas Season for many years to come. This film will be a tradition in our family. A new classic movie for years to come.The costumes were period and this film is set in England in the last century and was very authentic. I cant wait to read the book. Max Lucado always produces winners. I'm sure lots of films and books will be sold. The story of an Angel of God coming every 25 years to bless one family. However, so many surprises happen to the amazement of everyone. Belief in a loving Jesus, the reason for Christmas is restored. Very unique story.

This movie is truly a family Christmas movie for all ages. It was very refreshing. The characters were really fun and the cinematography was really beautiful! The film's message is all about hope and loving others well. I fully enjoyed it.Susan Boyle's singing in the film was really beautiful. As far as her acting, unfortunately, I was unimpressed. However, all the other characters were believable and lovable. I was equally impressed by the costumes.I feel the story might have fallen apart a little towards the end, but all in all, not enough to destroy the film nor the message. There will definitely be some religious humor that younger audiences probably won't understand, but the humor throughout the film is never crass or inappropriate by any standard. If you are looking for a family friendly or simply a positive clean film, this is one to put on the list. Enjoy!