A Christmas Star

A young girl born at Christmas with a magical gift must find a way to stop her town being taken over by a ruthless property developer. An independent British film with a sleigh-load of charm, computer effects and gimmicks are eschewed in favour of an old-fashioned feel-good Christmas tale. The cast make a rather slight storyline more engaging with warm performances, particularly from young lead Erin Galway-Kendrick. There's a host of familiar names on board as well - the distinctive tones of Liam Neeson are a highlight, popping in intermittently as a grumpy radio DJ. Former 007 Pierce Brosnan also hams it up in a fleeting appearance as an irate businessman, while a certain international popstar turns up for a cameo at the film's climax. Good humour and a sincere message cut through the treacle to make an infectiously festive family movie that wears its tinsel-covered heart on its sleeve.