Solstice

As a fan of holiday movies, many run the gambit of being corny, and the exceptional ones rise above that by doing something original with the material.

This movie doesn't have a conventional "happy" ending, but it does have a hopeful one, and in that, I commend the filmmakers for having the guts to present a story that is slowly paced and realistic in tone.

I imagine many viewers can relate to this story in how its lead character deals with isolation during the holidays, without leaning on a religious message... although part of the ending takes place in a church, it has more to do with having faith in others and what's around us then putting all expectations in "God's hands".

I also like the director's use of Chicago's north side neighborhoods... I discovered "Night Before Christmas" after having seen his other movie "The Dark Knight Project", which also made great use of Chicago's downtown locations. As a native of Chicago myself, it's cool seeing parts of the city so well reflected in motion pictures shot here.

Merry Christmas Nitestar Productions! And to all a good night...