Christmas, Again Film Review – A Relaxed Tale of a Forlorn Christmas Tree Seller Has Authentic Charm
The constitutes a New York drama with such a relaxed pace that it required a decade to arrive on the UK’s cinema screens. First released in the US in 2015, it’s a micro-budget first feature from debut filmmaker Charles Poekel, taking place largely on a 24-hour pop-up Christmas tree stall. Poekel’s style remains decidedly genuinely independent and naturalistic to get slushy or sentimental about Christmas; through his lens Christmas tree lights flash like police lights. But in its own low-key way, he positions the movie perfectly for a modest dose of festive warmth.
A Jaded Seller in the Brooklyn Cold
Kentucker Audley stars as Noel (it took someone 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 resting in a not-much-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 an observational quality to many of the scenes, with customers asking idle and peculiar questions. One woman 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 clearly indicates that he hadn't always been like this.
Quiet Moments and Glimmers of Hope
Frankly, not much happens. Noel rescues a woman, Lydia (Hannah Gross), who has collapsed drunk on a bench. She pops up again later in truly poignant scenes as Noel travels through 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 – you can’t beat it for naturalness and ease, and it’s filmed on gorgeously textured 16mm film.
A film of understated appeal and real mood, capturing the loneliness and fleeting connection of the season.
Christmas, Again arrives in UK cinemas from 12 December.
