The Film Christmas, Again Review – This Laidback Story of a Forlorn Christmas Tree Seller Boasts Genuine Charm

This is a New York drama so laidback that it required a decade to reach the UK’s cinema screens. Initially unveiled in the US in 2015, it’s an ultra-low-budget debut from first-time director Charles Poekel, taking place largely on a 24-hour pop-up Christmas tree stall. Poekel’s style is far too genuinely independent and naturalistic to get slushy or sentimental about Christmas; in his view Christmas tree lights flash like police lights. But in its own low-key way, he pitches his film perfectly for a modest dose of festive warmth.

A Weary Seller Amid the Brooklyn Cold

Kentucker Audley stars as Noel (it took someone in the film to comment on his name for the connection to be made). Noel is back for his fifth year peddling Christmas trees in Brooklyn, standing outside in the freezing cold and sleeping in a barely warmer caravan stationed beside the trees. A few customers inquire after the girl working with him last year. But this year Noel is alone, heartbroken and on the night shift.

There’s an observational quality to many of the scenes, with customers asking idle and peculiar questions. A customer requests the same Christmas tree as the Obamas (this is 2014). Noel looks frozen to the bone physically and emotionally; he’s weary and disillusioned, though Audley’s understated acting clearly indicates that he wasn’t always like this.

Understated Encounters and Glimmers of Hope

In truth, the plot is minimal. Noel rescues a woman, Lydia (Hannah Gross), who has passed out drunk on a bench. She reappears later in truly poignant scenes as Noel drives around New York, making tree deliveries – and these moments could ignite a small glimmer of good cheer in the grinchiest of hearts. Poekel has not directed a feature since this, which is regrettable – it is unmatched for authenticity and fluidity, and it’s filmed on gorgeously textured 16mm film.

A picture of understated charm and real mood, portraying the solitude and fleeting connection of the holidays.

Christmas, Again opens in UK cinemas from 12 December.