Christmas, Again Review – A Laidback Tale of a Lonely Christmas Tree Seller Boasts Authentic Charm
The constitutes a New York drama with such a relaxed pace that it has taken 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, set almost entirely on a 24-hour pop-up Christmas tree stall. Poekel’s style is far too genuinely independent and naturalistic to become slushy or sentimental about Christmas; in his view Christmas tree lights blink 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 stars as Noel (someone had in the film to comment on his name for the connection to be made). 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. Several patrons ask about the girl assisting him last year. But this year Noel is alone, heartbroken and working the night shift.
There’s an observational quality to many of the scenes, with customers asking idle and peculiar 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 clearly indicates that he hadn't always been like this.
Understated Moments and Glimmers 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 moments could ignite a little flicker of good cheer in the grinchiest of hearts. Poekel hasn’t made a feature since this, which is regrettable – you can’t beat it for naturalness and ease, and it’s filmed on beautifully grainy 16mm film.
A picture of understated charm and real atmosphere, portraying the loneliness and fleeting connection of the holidays.
Christmas, Again arrives in UK cinemas from 12 December.
