Christmas, Again Film Review – This Laidback Story of a Lonely Christmas Tree Seller Has Genuine Charm

This is 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 is far too authentic-indie and naturalistic to get slushy or sentimental about Christmas; through his lens Christmas tree lights flash like police lights. But with its subtle approach, he pitches his film just right for a modest dose of festive warmth.

A Weary Seller in the Brooklyn Cold

Kentucker Audley portrays Noel (someone had 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, 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 works solo, heartbroken and on the night shift.

There’s an observational quality to many of the scenes, with customers asking pointless random questions. A customer requests the same Christmas tree as the Obamas (the story is set in 2014). Noel looks numb with cold physically and emotionally; he’s weary and disillusioned, though Audley’s subtle performance clearly indicates that he hadn't always been like this.

Quiet Moments and Glimmers of Connection

In truth, the plot is minimal. Noel comes to the aid of 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 little flicker of good cheer in the grinchiest of hearts. Poekel hasn’t made a feature since this, which is regrettable – it is unmatched for naturalness and ease, and it’s shot on beautifully grainy 16mm film.

A picture of understated appeal and authentic mood, portraying the loneliness and brief warmth of the holidays.

Christmas, Again opens in UK cinemas from 12 December.