Dove Review:
Alison and Ivan are inseparable high school sweethearts living in the picturesque town of Hope Springs, vowing to be together forever—until they’re not. Ten years later, Alison is a washed-up former professional figure skater living in her hometown, and Ivan is a spoiled professional hockey player living the dream far away from his past. As the trope goes, Ivan experiences a painful knee injury, ending his professional career and sending him back to Hope Springs to confront everything—and everyone—he left behind. The film portrays the romance and reconciliation as Alison and Ivan reconnect after 10 long years apart.
The film recycles an old storyline but injects lots of fresh Christmas spirit by adding considerate messages throughout the plot, like the emphasis on volunteering, the town’s not-so-secret Santa and the healthy family dynamics. There is also a strong message of serving others as well as the expected message of forgiveness. It’s a Hallmark-style Christmas movie to curl up to and watch with cocoa. It has a likable ensemble of characters and a satisfying ending—one could even say it wraps up like a bow on a Christmas present!
Unfortunately, the romance in this film includes unofficial titles, random breakups, betrayal, and a lack of context to guide the plot. In addition, the only person who is held responsible for any of their actions is the male lead; the female lead never apologizes or corrects her part in the relationship breakdown.
However, Christmas Coupon is a clean film that wins the Dove Seal of Approval for All Ages, but adults and teens might appreciate this Christmas romance more than young children.
The Dove Take:
Christmas Coupon is a clean romance filled with Christmas spirit, ready for your next date night (if you can overlook the plot holes).
