Christmas Archives - Roger Hyttinen

Movie-a-Day Challenge: 12 Dates of Christmas

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 49. You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.

Hey friends! 🌟 So, I gotta tell you about this cozy little holiday gem I stumbled upon. It’s the 2011 flick “12 Dates of Christmas,” directed by James Hayman. And let me just say, I am officially in the holiday spirit now. I mean, before this, the closest I got to a holiday movie was “Violent Night,” and let’s be real, that’s not exactly sugarplums and mistletoe material, right? 😂

So, picture this: our girl Kate, played by the ever-charming Amy Smart, is stuck reliving the same disastrous blind date on Christmas Eve over and over again. Like, Groundhog Day, but with mistletoe and awkward small talk. Talk about a Yuletide nightmare! It all starts with her trying to win back her ex (because, let’s be honest, we’ve all been there with the holiday ex blues), but things go hilariously haywire, and suddenly she’s trapped in a time loop of awkward encounters with this adorable guy named Miles (cue the swooning!) played by Mark-Paul Gosselaar. Yes, Zack from “Saved by the Bell”!

Each repeat of the day is like its own little adventure. Kate starts off kind of freaked out (I mean, who wouldn’t be?), but then she begins to use these do-overs to fix stuff in her life. But here’s the quirky part – with each loop, Kate learns more about herself and what she really wants. It’s like watching someone do a deep dive into self-discovery, but with Christmas lights and eggnog. She starts to fall for Miles, but it’s not just about the romance. It’s about her growing as a person, and that’s the part that really got me.

And beneath all the comedic chaos, there’s a surprisingly sweet message about appreciating the present moment and not getting caught up in chasing the “perfect” Christmas. You know, that feeling of pressure to have the most picture-perfect holiday, with the ideal family gathering and the flawless romantic kiss under the mistletoe? Yeah, Kate throws that picture frame right out the window (metaphorically speaking, of course).

What I loved about this movie is how it’s not just your typical holiday rom-com. Sure, it’s got the romance and the festive cheer, but it’s also about personal growth and second chances. It’s like a reminder that sometimes, life gives us a do-over, and we gotta make the most of it.

So yeah, “12 Dates of Christmas” is a holiday must-watch. It’s heartwarming, funny, and just the right amount of festive. Watching it made me feel like I was unwrapping a big, shiny present of feel-good vibes. So, if you haven’t seen it yet, do yourself a favor and check it out. Trust me, it’s like a cozy holiday hug. 🎄💖

Peace Out,
Roger

Movie-a-Day Challenge: Violent Night

By Roger Hyttinen / November 27, 2023

This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE

Hey there, fellow movie buffs! 🎬

So, I recently curled up with a big bowl of popcorn (okay, maybe two) to watch the 2022 film “Violent Night,” directed by the one and only Tommy Wirkola. And let me tell you, the title is no joke – it’s exactly as advertised! This film is a wild, bloody, and absolutely gory ride, (in the best possible way) but guess what? I absolutely loved it! 🍿💥

First off, let’s get one thing straight – “Violent Night” is not your typical Christmas movie. If you’re thinking of a cozy, family-friendly holiday film… think again! This is more like if “Home Alone” met a Quentin Tarantino flick – lots of action, lots of “ouch” moments, and a hefty dose of dark humor. 🎅🔪

So, the plot? It’s Christmas Eve, and we’ve got a group of mercenaries who decide to crash a wealthy family’s holiday party. But here’s the twist – they’re not the only unexpected guests. Enter our not-so-typical Santa Claus, who’s more action hero than jolly old elf. 🎅💥

This Santa, let me tell you, he’s not just about ho-ho-ho and distributing gifts. When the bad guys start causing havoc, he’s all in for saving the day, and let’s just say, his methods aren’t exactly from the storybooks. It’s like “Home Alone” but cranked up to a whole new level of wild. The traps, the fights, the sheer audacity of it all – it’s like watching a comic book come to life.

The film takes us on a crazy journey that’s as unpredictable as it is entertaining. It’s like every turn of the story brings something more outrageous than the last. I found myself gasping and laughing in equal measures – a bizarre combo, but it totally works here! The action sequences are brilliantly choreographed, making you wince and cheer at the same time.

And let’s talk about the characters. They are a hoot, each with their own brand of crazy! The dialogues are snarky, and the action sequences? Absolutely bonkers! It’s a film that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s what makes it such a blast. They’re as colorful as a string of Christmas lights, each with their own quirks and twists. The dialogue is snappy, and the performances are spot-on, striking that perfect balance between over-the-top and genuinely engaging.

In short, “Violent Night” is a holiday film with a wicked twist – and not for the faint of heart. It’s perfect for those who like their Christmas movies with a side of adrenaline and a dash of mayhem. If you’re into films that mix a bit of gore with your Christmas cheer, then you’re in for a treat. Just don’t make the mistake of gathering the kiddos for this one – it’s a solo or adults-only kind of night. 🚫👶

So, if you’re up for a film that’s as intense as it is festive, give “Violent Night” a watch (but maybe have a pillow handy to hide behind). You might just find yourself adding it to your list of ‘unconventional’ holiday favorites. 🍿🎄

Happy watching!
Roger 🌟

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