Rated PG

First up is THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER, an adaptation of the beloved children’s book. The story follows a family of problematic children who take over a church’s annual Christmas pageant. And while everyone thinks it will be a disaster, things take a surprising turn.

The people making this film certainly have their hearts in the right place, putting together a charming and light-hearted movie that delivers some appropriate messaging.

The film tries to evoke the kids-eye-view that we see so wonderfully in A CHRISTMAS STORY, though when the adults turn a blind eye to the shenanigans, they just come across as horrible parents and leaders. This, along with some archaic stereotypes, rings sour at times.

The movie doesn’t hold the same punch as some of the classics like A CHRISTMAS STORY, but it’s still a sweet film with a committed cast.

I’m not sure if it will be a perennial favorite, but it makes for a nice slice of entertainment for the family audience.

THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER gets three snowballs out of five. I’m Kevin Carr, and that’s the way I see it.

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