Christmas Cottage Reviews

“THOMAS KINKADE’S CHRISTMAS COTTAGE” REVIEWS

From: amazon.com, imdb.com, Flixter.com, Timpug.com, Urban Cinefile and the Dallas preview of the film.

Amazon.com reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars Phenomenal, Moving, Powerful, Profound...Amazing Film. Period., November 25, 2010

By M. J. Phillips "Chief Underdog" (Costa Mesa, CA)

Hands down, this is one of the best movies I've ever seen in my life. Some reviewers have been critical of the fact that it appears to be a "warm fuzzy movie for the family" and yet, it probably is not appropriate for children. There is some foul language (although not out of hand), and there are depictions of smoking, drinking, and cleavage. However, it's all done in the context of illustrating the characters and never feels ugly or obscene. It is not, by any stretch, an obnoxious film as some reviewers seem to have suggested, and it an amazing and "warm fuzzy film" that has so many special moments I can't count them. One feels "opened up" after watching it. However, if one if very religious, skip this offering; there are better for you.

Another powerful aspect of this film is it is based on the real life of the painter Thomas Kinkade. So not only are you taken on an inspiring cinematic journey into the depths of the meaning of life, love, family, and friendship, but one is also learning about the amazing and profound life of the painter. It's a fantastic movie in every regard, a masterpiece, a triumph of the human spirit. It should be in your library.

If you liked Steele Magnolias, you will love this film. Another warm/fuzzy film is also The Ultimate Gift--don't miss it either.

5.0 out of 5 stars Perfect Gift for the Christmas Holiday!!, January 18, 2010

By Sezen Ersoy "dnzrsy"

I think that this movie is totally amazing. It has the magical feeling of Christmas and holiday cheer in it. Jared Padalecki and Aaron Ashmore were very talented in the movie. I recommend this movie to the ones who wants to have a delightful holiday season.

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com

Returning home from college one Christmas, young artist Thomas Kinkade (Jared Padalecki) is dismayed to learn that attempts to promote local tourism have failed and his mother (Marcia Gay Harden) is dangerously close to losing the family cottage to foreclosure. Inspired by his mentor, Glen (Peter O'Toole), a famous artist who lives next door, Thom accepts a job painting a mural of his small, idyllic hometown. With Glen's help, Thom not only discovers his calling as the Painter of Light(tm) but also helps the town rediscover the true spirit of Christmas in this nostalgic, humorous and heartwarming true story destined to become a holiday classic.

5.0 out of 5 stars What a great Movie, April 10, 2010

By Great Shopper

I bought this movie for my wife. We started to watch it on the family network over Christmas and then could not finish it. It is a true and wonderful story of one of our countries greatest artists, the struggles he and his family went through and how his life was cast. As important is the great message that is shared about his mom. Get it and you will have a great movie for every Christmas and hopefully throughout the year.

5.0 out of 5 stars What Christmas really is about..., October 30, 2010

By Anna

Thomas Kinkade's Christmas Cottage" is not actually a movie about the famous painter. - It is a well-told story about a young man becoming an adult.
A story about family, responsibility and friendship.
A story about facing problems that so many people struggle with - and about finding will, strength and potential to solve them.
A story where nothing really seems to happen, yet you stay stuck in your chair and turn the phone off so that no one interrupts this journey to a place where Christmas really is special time.

With wonderful acting by Peter O'Toole and Jared Padalecki (a young, promising actor best known as a start of the TV series "Supernatural" that has just come into it's sixth season), this film is a must-see for all family gathered around the Christmas table.
You will not find fluffy angels or a big man with the red outfit and long grey beard in it, but I am more than sure that after watching "Thomas Kinkade's Christmas Cottage", you will again remember what Christmas really is about...

5.0 out of 5 stars Thomas Kincades Christmas Cottage, December 15, 2009

By Mary L. Farina

This will be one of my favorite Christmas movies. I love all his paintings, and this movie completed my feelings of the Master Artist. Done in very good taste. I will recommend to my friends.

5.0 out of 5 stars Yes it's a family movie for Pete's Sakes! November 21, 2008

By CrazyJaime "Polar Bear" (Alaska)

Some weirdos are getting on here saying this is not a family movie due to vulgarity and sensuality. I don't think they saw the same movie I saw. There is more vulgarity and sensuality spending five minutes anywhere outside this movie...walking down a street, at school, tv shows or commercials. Please do yourself a favor and ignore those reviews. You'll be glad and thankful for it. The whole movie has to do with redemption, and God's love, and it has the guts to say so, in a way that I don't think would turn off most non-religious or religious people. This movie is a gem, the acting is excellent, and I am ordering a copy or two for gifts. If you are an aspiring artist, or know someone who is, this movie is a God-send.

A story of Beginnings and Endings, November 15, 2008

By Gloria Oliver "Unveiling the Fantastic"

Famed painter Thomas Kinkaid had this film made about a very pivotal time of his life. Kept raw as real life tends to be, it is a sad and yet very uplifting film. Topics are deep and moving. This is not meant to be a young children's film, but more a teenage and adult film. Deals with motivations, the things that shape us, those who mold our lives.

While I felt the character of Thomas was not given enough depth to fully utilize Mr. Padalecki's talents, his performance with what he was given was awesome. Several of the supporting characters did super amazing work. Despite the rough language given to Richard Burgi, it was the most amazing piece of acting I have seen from him yet -- the depths of feeling and information in his vulnerable moments were totally worth it. Mr. O'Toole also gives a wondrous performance.

If you want something to touch your heart, see how life shapes people, and just get some of that Christmas feeling flowing -- this movie is for you.

Very pleased, November 15, 2008

By S. McNaughton "Shea" (Texas)

I was extremely pleased with this movie. I rented it tonight and enjoyed it so much that I am going to buy it and add it to my ever-expanding roster of Christmas movies. Unlike those who criticize it for lack of typical Christmas fluff, this movie had a raw element that humanized it, therefore making it ENTIRELY believable. I have plenty of "family feel-good" movies and was interested in this movie because it claimed to show how Thomas got his start, which it did. Bravo, Thomas, for having the courage to show the humanity of the townspeople with whom you grew up. A based-on-true-story movie SHOULD show humanity, raw or otherwise. While this isn't a movie that young children would understand, it IS a movie which adults and older teens can relate to. I will watch it every year from now on.

5.0 out of 5 stars Heartwarming movie, November 16, 2008

By D. Davison (Atlanta, GA USA)

I loved this movie. It goes without saying that Peter O'Toole is amazing in his role. His designation as a legend is well-deserved. As a long-time Richard Burgi fan, this is one of his best roles, and he is wonderful in it. And while I've not known Jared Padalecki's work for as long as I've known Richard's, I have a similar admiration for both of them, and their scenes together in this movie are funny and heartbreaking.

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Xmas Movie., November 16, 2008

By Kalena (IL, USA)

Great Christmas movie that rejoices in love of ur neighbors while also showing that sometimes ppl will suprise us even when we have given up hope that they will ever change. Not a religious movie, but still very well portrayed with a spirit of Christmas and helping each other.

5.0 out of 5 stars such a cute family movie!, April 11, 2009

By Jeffrey Lesniak "b joy" (IL, USA)

a new christmas classic! my family enjoyed watching it together even in april! jared padalecki is outstanding, his acting abilities are far more powerful then you'd expect, you feel what his character feels! charming story and enchanting cast! Most see movie!!!

5.0 out of 5 stars Thomas Kinkade's Christmas Cottage, March 7, 2009

By S. Wallace "Wallace" (Houston, TX USA)

I read unflattering reviews of this movie, and I couldn't disagree more. Thomas Kinkade really does paint "light" like no one I've ever seen, and it was wonderful to see how he got to the place he is as an artist. His early life was portrayed beautifully, and it's another "triumph out of tragedy" story. Poverty in early life never has to be the last word!

5.0 out of 5 stars Hits Home, February 26, 2009

By Christl Kramer (Everett, WA USA)

Thomas Kinkade's Christmas Cottage Movie truly hits home with a wonderful story and cast. It depicts what the "real" Christmas Spirit should be in all our lives. The true story of one of America's greatest artists, showing how it all began for him, allows viewers to relate on many levels. Emotions stir with the exquisite acting of Peter O'Toole and Marcia Gay Harden. Jared Padalecki exhibits a great character as a young Thomas Kinkade.
The movie has an array of noteworthy stars that have been brought together in a way that "warms the heart.”
It reaches inside of us and demonstrates how love for one another, not only at Christmas time, but all the time, is really the brightest light of all. I am sure this will be a permanent part of viewer's DVD collcetions.

5.0 out of 5 stars A Must-See, February 2, 2009

By B. Smith (Farmington, UT USA)

I thought this would just be another "heart-warming Christmas story", but it's so much more. I was so touched by it that I bought about 10 more to give to family and friends I knew would love it! It is uplifting, and a great example of loving our neighbors. It is a story of goodness, giving, and caring. In addition, there is great insight into the teen years and life motivation of Thomas Kinkade - I was deeply touched by his caring and the effect that had on his own life (what goes around, comes around!). I would recommend this to anyone - even if it's NOT CHRISTMAS! Wonderful for any season!

5.0 out of 5 stars The true meaning of Christmas, February 2, 2009

By D. Whitlock

This movie is beautifully written, the acting is wonderful and the theme is thought provoking. The characters convey the true meaning of Christmas. I'm a big fan of Thomas Kincaide and it was interesting to learn about his background. The theme of his paintings, the Painter of Light, comes through, but the light of Christmas as well.

True and Inspiring, January 31, 2009

By M. A. Kane "Movie Buff" (Hayden, ID)

Great movie. Characters were so real. Peter O'Toole was fantastic! It was funny in places and very heartwarming. Made me wish I lived in a town like that!

5.0 out of 5 stars Such a great movie, bought copies to give as gifts!!

January 18, 2009 By Carole A. Langlais "Jack of all Crafts" (CT, USA)

This movie is great! I have always loved Thomas Kinkade's work on canvas and other mediums, so I had to check this movie out...and I am so glad I did!
The acting is supurb, the story-line, very believable, and the theme is moving beyond words! It was really nice to get a glimpse into the life of Thomas Kinkade. There isn't a lot of fluff here as the topic dictates, but this will be on the top of my Christmas favorites now! Really a wonderful family movie, but be sure to have a box of tissue near by!
I bought several copies to give as Christmas gifts this year.

IMDb User Reviews

A sumptuous production worth seeing!, 16 November 2008

Author: Len9876 from United States

This film, co-produced by Thomas Kinkade, is as beautiful, natural, and true-to-life as his paintings. Michael Campus, the director provides a breathtaking and memorable reminder of the Christmases of old. This, in addition to the capable writing of Ken LaZebnik, adds to the color of the Christmas story. Jared Padalecki (Thomas Kinkade), who provided a great deal of the emotion and feel of the movie, is a gifted actor. He shows much promise, and it is hoped that a brilliant and long acting career is in his future. Peter O'Toole (Glen Wessler), another gifted and sensitive actor, provides 'the light' for this and many superb performances. Mr. O'Toole is probably best remembered for his award- winning performance in "Lawrence of Arabia". And, it is always good to see Charlotte Rae and Ed Asner, who greatly add to this and many winning performances. Marcia Gay Harden's inner beauty, and outer loveliness, come through in this film. This is a feel-good movie, which does present like a Hallmark Christmas card, but I think that this quality only adds to the presentation. Thomas Kinkade has his own unique style, a brilliance that increasingly illuminates his work. This, along with the spirit of Christmas, makes this film worth seeing. There is empowerment in the story--which, in my opinion, makes this movie deserving of no less than a 10 out of 10. Enjoy the film, and see it with someone you love. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Christmas Enchantment, 25 November 2008

Author: Patricia Looweedjiccabumpski from West Virginia, United States

The sorts of ready disparagements this movie will attract?Is it too full of swiftly drawn caricatures? Too relentlessly brave? Too syrupy sweet? Too anticipatable? Too small town? May all films be so lucky.

Director Michael Campus, is a humanist. He allows himself to be known for the divine sentimentalist he is on the DVD Special Features and film commentary (joined by the artist of enchantment himself, Thomas Kinkade, whose reminiscences infuse the stuff of real life), all of which should be carefully viewed and heard. I immersed myself in this heartening film like a hot tub!

Charlotte Rae does not appear to be listed in the cast on IMDb - an oversight or am I going blind? She stole every scene she was in! What a trouper, what a mobile face, what a voice! Playing Vesta, the church organist, she is fabulous! Don't miss her Christmas comment in the Special Features section - she radiates the Christmas spirit - and she's Jewish! ;-)

What's so compelling about this film are the outright love, tears and camaraderie out of which it was born. That the story is TRUE makes it, perhaps, awkward to make it all-inclusive of those memories.

I have a Thomas Kinkade print (not an original, of course, since I, too, am on an "early Maryanne budget") of a rainy street scene, which, with a jolt, I thought I recognized in front of the the mother's place of employment. Could this be? Kinkade's early struggles along the way are the grist of this warm-hearted seasonal movie which illuminates the cherished Illuminator in a most moving way.

Jared Padalecki, a gorgeous young actor, carries the film, or, better, soars with this film on youthful wings with so many older, more experienced thespians of obvious renown. Such a nuanced and tender performance! He is bound to become a household word.

Marcia Gay Harden - as Kinkade's mother, Maryanne - is luminous. I have seen such as Juliet Binoche in "Chocolat" playing selfless women, but Marcia Gay is right up there with the Living Saints! This is the way people should treat one another in this world. The real Maryanne, we learn, lives very near her son Thomas today and basks in the successes of both her boys: Patrick (very well-portrayed by the fresh-faced Aaron Ashmore and Thomas. Obviously, all Maryanne's sacrifice and hard work came to grand fruition.

Richard Burgi is commendable and markedly original in his embodiment of the absent Kinkade father, who might have been treated vengefully, since he abandoned the family when the brothers were but small boys. Instead of rancor, this family shows him acceptance and love in later life. Burgi's performance captures,Thomas Kinkade says, the idiosyncrasies of their madcap father. He's a kick.

Peter O'Toole? What can you say? Tried and true, he shines like a Christmas Star in anything he touches. And as Glen Wessels - the generous artist who, as Fate would have it, happens to settle near the Kinkades' rundown cottage - he mentors the young Thomas. Jewels of languid British cadence fall from O'Toole's gifted lips. He offers guidance, wisdom, and, with trembling dignity, rescue. I was moved to tears several times during these remarkable scenes.

Geoffrey Lewis gave such a winning performance as a grief-stricken father who has lost his son in battle. He melts the heart. Lewis's face, so open and guileless, suspends any reservation or disbelief and sustains the movie magic. Chris Elliott, in a Fezziwig topknot, takes and runs with the role of Ernie, the Chamber of Commerce guy who is into publicizing the town via japes, loud ties, and hustle. He is too perfect.

Ed Asner as the agent? Solid as granite and manly as a bull. What a cast, what a cast! How was it gotten together? The work that went into this labor of love - initiated by a chance meeting of the Campuses and Kinkades at a Carmel, California restaurant! Such serendipity makes believers of us all - nice guys CAN finish first.

I can't list all the players (each so perfectly fitted into a glowing Christmas mosaic), my time is up. Try to see this one at Christmastime and linger over it, as I did, so gratefully

Christmas Cottage was Superb!, 2 December 2008

Author: (WESTCROW2002@YAHOO.COM) from United States

I loved the story line. It was a wonderful family movie. There were some very touching scenes between Jared Padalecki and Peter O'Toole. I was very impressed with the film and with Jared's acting ability. I have to admit that the ending almost made me cry. Jared's character Tom Kincade is a college student and struggling artist who returns home for Christmas and helps his Mom avoid foreclosure on her home. He does this by painting a mural of the town in exchange for 500 dollars. The character's journey and inspiration to become a better artist is simply heart warming. I would definitely recommend this movie as a feel good family movie.

I wish there were more slow-moving movies out there . . ., 29 January 2010

Author: dennis from the Bay Area

Shake, and pour into a tall glass. In the world of Christmas movies with $12 scripts, this one stands out.

Flixter.com Reviews

By absolutnormal December 7, 2008

This movie inspired me. It was very touching and moving.

Timpug.com

A sumptuous production worth seeing!

16 November 2008 | by Len9876 (United States)

URBAN CINEFILE, Review by Andrew L. Urban: Published December 11, 2008

From the farcically duelling Christmas decorators in Placerville, USA, to the soul searching emerging artist is one big jump in tone - yet somehow Michael Campus manages it without too much jarring in this story inspired by the painter Thomas Kinkaid, who was propelled to let his art lead him when his mother's cottage was threatened with foreclosure.

Jared Padalecki is superficially an unlikely artist, but he convinces with sheer charm, and Marcia Gay Harden is her reliable self as Maryanne, his loving and long suffering mother with a heart of gold and a bank account without any. Richard Burgi is terrific as the estranged and half deranged father, and all the supports are excellent. Peter O'Toole plays the ageing artist Glen Wessler, who is something of a mentor and father figure to young Tom; O'Toole is simply magical these days in roles as venerable or not so venerable old men, and he gives it his all here.

At the Dallas preview, THE CHRISTMAS COTTAGE earned an 89% approval rating. Here are some of the audience comments:

“Heartwarming, gold, Christmas movie. Inspirational. A family classic!”

“The most amazing movie. Heartfelt beyond belief. I want everyone to see it because it will change your heart.”

“The best feel-good movie ever.”

“This is one of the most inspiring Christmas movies one should never forget. Love and togetherness, honest and sincere. It touches everyone’s heart.”

“Makes you remember life and love.”

“This is a movie in the best tradition of the classics.”

“It is a funny, heartwarming, wonderful and beautiful portrayal of love.”

“Truly inspirational.”

“A great and touching movie.”

“Awesome. A wholesome family movie for everyone.”

“This is a great family movie.”

“It made me laugh and cry. It was wonderful.”

“You will need to experience the emotions that come from this movie, about a simple moment in time.”

“It was a fabulous, great movie for the whole family. I loved it!!”

“A beautiful story about the true meaning of Christmas. A beautiful, touching story about love and light.”

“It is a great movie. I loved everything about it.”

“It is a story of real human emotion, full of warmth and love, strength and joy. It is simply the most wonderful movie I’ve ever see.”

“This movie really tugs at your heart.”

“This is one of the most inspiring Christmas movies. One we should never forget.”

“It makes you feel good about yourself and others.”

“Finally, a great family movie for all of us to enjoy.”

“This was a wonderful film. It touched my heart and made me laugh and cry.”

“Awesome! It’s so beautiful.”

“It was a great, great story.”

“It was a very soul touching movie. It reiterates what really is important in life. The people and helping each other.”

“Great! Must see.”