My first reaction to this movie was “Is it time for a feel-good Christmas movie already?”Part of Hallmark's cherished "Miracles of Christmas" series, This Time Each Year brings together the familiar themes of love, redemption, and the spirit of second chances. The story revolves around Lauren (Alison Sweeney) and Kevin McCall (Niall Matter), a couple on the brink of divorce, navigating the delicate emotions of a trial separation. With the festive season looming, the two must put on a facade of a happily married couple for Lauren’s mother (Laura Soltis), who visits for Christmas unaware of their crumbling relationship.
As they prepare to celebrate Christmas, Lauren and Kevin find themselves revisiting the joyful memories that once united them, despite the challenges that tore them apart. Kevin’s journey to sobriety over the past year adds an extra layer of hope and personal triumph. His resilience in staying sober while still managing the strain of his marriage brings a heartfelt sincerity to the film, making the stakes feel real. This subplot, while tender, avoids falling into cliches, portraying Kevin’s growth with sensitivity.
Alison Sweeney delivers a deeply relatable performance, grounding Lauren’s character in a mix of vulnerability and strength. She embodies a woman torn between walking away from her marriage and holding onto the love that built it. Meanwhile, Niall Matter plays Kevin with subtle charm, making his determination to salvage the relationship both believable and moving. The chemistry between the two actors feels authentic, creating moments of tension, warmth, and bittersweet nostalgia.
The true heart of This Time Each Year lies in its ability to balance hope and reality. Rather than offering an unrealistic fairy-tale ending, the film gently nudges the couple toward healing, emphasizing that love can triumph—but only when both partners commit to change and growth. The Christmas setting provides the perfect backdrop, with cozy scenes filled with warmth, family togetherness, and the magic of new beginnings.
This Time Each Year is a quintessential feel-good Christmas movie that perfectly fits into Hallmark's heartwarming formula. It’s a film where the magic of the holidays works as a cure-all, and broken bonds find their way to healing. The movie wraps viewers in the comforting belief that no matter the struggles, the festive season has the power to bring people back together. While the narrative doesn’t shy away from the couple’s marital struggles, it avoids diving too deep into the complexities of long-term relationships. The focus remains squarely on rekindling love amid holiday cheer, making it a safe space for those seeking a story of redemption without the heavy emotional weight. The film gently assures us that, no matter how tough life can be, there’s always hope for a fresh start—especially when Christmas miracles are involved.
For fans of Hallmark’s signature blend of romance and redemption, This Time Each Year stands out as a touching reminder that sometimes, a little holiday magic—and a lot of hard work—can mend even the most strained relationships. It’s the kind of movie that leaves you with a warm, fuzzy feeling, reminding us that the holiday season is all about finding joy, love, and forgiveness.
Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times