Christmas, Again Review – A Laidback Story of a Forlorn Christmas Tree Seller Boasts Authentic Charm
This constitutes a New York drama so laidback that it has taken a decade to arrive on the UK’s cinema screens. Initially unveiled in the US in 2015, it’s an ultra-low-budget debut from debut filmmaker 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 become slushy or sentimental about Christmas; in his view Christmas tree lights blink like police lights. But with its subtle approach, he pitches his film perfectly for a little squeeze of festive warmth.
The Jaded Seller in the Brooklyn Cold
Kentucker Audley stars as Noel (someone had in the film to comment on his name before I twigged). Noel is back for his fifth year peddling Christmas trees in Brooklyn, working outdoors in the freezing cold and resting in a not-much-warmer caravan parked next to the trees. Several patrons ask about the girl working with 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. 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 makes it clear that he hadn't always been like this.
Understated Encounters and Glimmers of Connection
In truth, not much happens. 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 travels through New York, making tree deliveries – and these moments could spark 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 authenticity and fluidity, and it’s filmed on beautifully grainy 16mm film.
The film of understated charm and authentic mood, capturing the solitude and fleeting warmth of the holidays.
Christmas, Again arrives in UK cinemas from 12 December.
