The Film Christmas, Again Review – A Laidback Tale of a Lonely Christmas Tree Seller Boasts Genuine Charm
This constitutes a New York drama so laidback that it has taken a decade to reach the UK’s cinema screens. First released in the US in 2015, it’s an ultra-low-budget debut from debut filmmaker Charles Poekel, set almost entirely on a 24-hour pop-up Christmas tree stall. Poekel’s style remains decidedly authentic-indie and naturalistic to get slushy or sentimental about Christmas; through his lens Christmas tree lights blink like police lights. But in its own low-key way, he positions the movie just right for a modest dose of festive warmth.
The Jaded Seller Amid the Brooklyn Cold
Kentucker Audley stars as Noel (it took someone in the film to joke about his name for the connection to be made). Noel is back for his fifth year selling Christmas trees in Brooklyn, working outdoors in the freezing cold and sleeping in a not-much-warmer caravan stationed beside the trees. A few customers inquire after the girl working with him last year. But this year Noel works solo, broken-hearted and on the night shift.
There’s a documentary feel to a lot of the scenes, with customers asking pointless random questions. One woman wants the same Christmas tree as the Obamas (this is 2014). Noel looks frozen to the bone in body and spirit; he’s weary and disillusioned, though Audley’s understated acting clearly indicates that he wasn’t always like this.
Understated Moments and Flickers of Connection
Frankly, not much happens. Noel comes to the aid of a woman, Lydia (Hannah Gross), who has collapsed drunk on a bench. She pops up again later in truly poignant scenes as Noel drives around New York, delivering trees – and these sequences could spark a small glimmer of good cheer even in the most cynical viewer. Poekel hasn’t made a feature since this, which is a shame – you can’t beat it for authenticity and fluidity, and it’s filmed on beautifully grainy 16mm film.
The picture of quiet appeal and real atmosphere, portraying the solitude and brief warmth of the season.
Christmas, Again arrives in UK cinemas from 12 December.
