inkblot11 Review of The Christmas Candle

The Christmas Candle (2013)

Lights up the screen, with Matheson a wonderful leading man and it also has a fine Christian message

[8/10 · 27 March 2017]

In the English town of Gladbury, there is a legend that, at Christmas, an angel visits the candle maker and blesses one candle. Who ever buys that candle, will receive a miracle. If they are sick, they will be well; if poor, they will become rich and so on. Naturally, the candle maker is highly prized and visited. But, the town is about to experience change, as its the beginning of the twentieth century and electric lights are taking over. Gladbury also needs a new minister and one of the most influential townfolk knows who she wants. He is David Richmond (Hans Matheson) who once gave powerful sermons but has turned to helping the poor in London via the Salvation Army. AFter much discussion, Reverend Richmond agrees to relocate. On his journey, David encounters a lady, Emily Barstow (Samantha Barks) whose carriage horses refuse to pull her out of a stream. Although Miss Barstow initially turns down his aid, there is no other choice so she relents. Its obvious the new minister is struck by this spirited lady. Once in town, Reverend Richmond hears about the candle legend and doesn't like it. In his view, miracles are done by ordinary folks, taking care of their neighbors as Christ would have wanted. He demonstrates this by helping needy families repair homes and survive chaos. Most of all, David wants to light up the church with electric lights, changing things forever. This causes some waves. Especially upset are the candle makers, The Haddingtons, who are dumbstruck to witness the angel's visit but lose the chosen candle in their enormous pile. As a last ditch effort, this couple proceed to give out ALL of their candles to the village residents and hope that a miracle will prove their story. Can it be? This beautiful movie is difficult to encapsulate, as there are several story lines and issues. Nonetheless, it is a very beautiful film with a fine cast, especially Matheson who is wonderful. Susan Boyle is also one of the town's residents and her glorious voice is heard in the movie, from time to time. Then, too, the historic sets, costumes, story and touching direction all combine to produce a lovely movie. Christians will also adore the themes, as the flick is based on a book by Max Lucado. Light up your own movie viewing by finding this one, in season or out.