If you’re a fan of the Pastor Greg TV series, created by Greg Robbins, then prepare to be delighted! In this Pastor Greg reboot, we meet a young, new pastor and a fresh ensemble of all our favorite characters from the series. Pastor Greg is a former soldier, impressive martial artist, and in classic fashion, still trying to win over his new church family and community. Along with his staff, lovable Lori, youth pastor Flo, and worship leader John (who can’t carry a tune), Pastor Greg seeks to pull of the best Christmas program the community has ever seen. But things go terribly awry in the best way.
Pastor Greg (Greg P. Robbins) has been re-imagined as a younger, hipper version, but he still retains that unorthodox, gentle quality from his predecessor. In fact, Greg P. Robbins does a great job at capturing the character, and it’s no wonder he can play Pastor Greg so effortlessly—creator and actor Greg Robbins is his real-life father! In signature oddball style, Hope for Christmas traces the events leading up to the church’s annual Christmas production. While Pastor Greg stresses about his sermon, an unexpected series of events leads him to the perfect message, one that will not only inspire but warm the hearts of his congregation.
The storyline is good and very similar to the original; however, it lacks the robust storytelling necessary to flesh out the film. The cast is diverse and interesting, with war comrade-turned-youth-pastor, Flo, and the ever-fretting, always business-minded Lori at the helm. Tone-deaf John is back, and together with Greg, the team makes a great source for clean comedy. The entire gang is back together in this modern update with all the chemistry and fellowship found in the original. The feel-good plot is a crowd-pleaser, with Pastor Greg’s unique ministering style to intrigue and teach viewers. The great thing about Pastor Greg’s character is that he manages to deliver practical biblical messages, but his style is so humble and simple that you nearly forget he’s preaching. The film is about a group of friends experiencing Christmas together. Watching along, I felt like a part of the group.
Hope for Christmas is a comforting holiday film about friendship, faith, and of course, hope. A Pastor Greg series reboot, this film offers laughs, comfort, and Pastor Greg’s signature oddball style to bring some joy into your home this Christmas. If you’re a fan of the series, you won’t want to miss this update; and if you’re a newcomer, this is a great introduction to a great character.
The film merits the Dove-Approved All Ages Seal. Grab yourself a fuzzy blanket, watch and enjoy!
The Dove Take
A Pastor Greg series reboot, this film offers laughs, comfort, and Pastor Greg’s signature oddball style to bring some joy into your home this Christmas.
