Window Wonderland (2013 TV Movie) User Reviews (29)

A good Christmas story

[Jackbv123 · 7/10 · 8 November 2017]

This is a story about a young woman struggling with insecurity. At one point, referring to what they do as window dressers, she says "We create perfect images for people to admire", but her deeper meaning is about her own facade. Chyler Leigh plays this part so well. Early in the movie she is sitting in a restaurant with her successful boyfriend and I looked at her and thought - "she looks like a little girl with this man way out of her league". Not that Kenneth, not Kenny, is a catch.

Meanwhile, Jake Dooley's façade over his insecurity is his witty, but insincere response to almost everything. This is not a new character for Paul Campbell, but you can't argue with how well he does it.

Leigh and Campbell's chemistry progresses brilliantly from disgust into what you'd expect for the leads in the movie. And there is plenty of wit between both of them. Campbell is a go-to for Hallmark movies, but Leigh more than holds her own with him.

The story is not another typical Christmas romance. We think we know where it is going, but things go a little differently and the ending is a surprise.

One of Hallmark's best yet

[utgard14 · 8/10 · 15 November 2015]

I'm a sucker for a good Hallmark TV movie, especially romantic comedies and even more especially ones that take place at Christmas. I've seen quite a lot of them over the last few years and, while there are some standouts, most tend to be of the "watch once and forget about it" variety. I'm happy to say this one is one of the standouts. As a matter of fact, I might go so far as to say it's the best movie I've seen from Hallmark yet. The story is a very simple one -- a woman and a man are both competing for a promotion as a department store's window decorator. He's an aspiring artist who's struggling to make ends meet in the big city and she's driven and ambitious to the point that she's lying about her background and pretending her bathroom attendant mom is a stranger. As they work alongside each other they grow closer and eventually...well, you know where it's going. But knowing that doesn't lessen the journey.

It's not perfect, of course. As always, Hallmark finds a way to bring wealth and status into things even when it's not necessary. I think someone should do a study on how often this occurs in Hallmark movies. It seems pretty common, particularly in the seasonal romcoms. There always has to be at least one rich guy. Sometimes he's a knight in shining armor and sometimes he's a villain. Anyway I have no quibbles with how it figures into this movie's plot but it did strike me as one of those familiar elements you see in virtually every Hallmark movie. Another slight negative is that the window decorations that are such a big part of the plot are just terribly unimpressive. I can't imagine any major department store in New York City allowing those cheap and lazy designs. Also a painting we're told is a great work of art is strictly amateur hour.

Those are minor issues in the grand scheme of things. They likely won't stand out to the average viewer who hasn't seen a ton of these movies. The strengths of this one far outweigh the weaknesses. The leads, Chyler Leigh and Paul Campbell, are absolutely perfect with an amazing chemistry that makes them easy to root for. It helps that the movie never pushes too hard for them to get together. We all know from the very beginning it will happen but the movie lets it play out naturally and without a lot of manufactured drama or angst. The tone of the whole movie is light and pleasant, which is another major plus. Naomi Judd is adorable in her supporting role as Leigh's mother. She steals every scene she's in. The biggest plus for Window Wonderland is the script, which is so much better than you usually get with these things. The characters are likable and three-dimensional, not just wooden clichés. The dialogue is really good. I love the playful banter between the lead characters. It's just such a good effort from Hallmark. Funny and touching with some great characters and a story that, while mostly predictable, is extremely satisfying.

Some Variations

[boblipton · 6/10 · 28 November 2013]

This looks to start out as a standard Hallmark romantic comedy, where she is a brittle and uptight urban girl and he is a relaxed and casually brilliant guy. However, it quickly becomes apparent that they are both facades, come-ons to get people to buy the merchandise they offer, just like the windows they decorate in this good Hallmark Christmas romcom.

The essential plot points are all in place: the woman who has been decorating the store's windows for twenty years has left, taking her senior staff with her, leaving only Chyler Leigh and Paul Campbell to battle for the top spot.

It's a well-assembled romantic comedy that mostly works, even with Vancouver standing in for Manhattan and a mall standing in for what is, judging from the facade shown in the establishing shots, Bloomingdale's. While I have some issues with the flat, grey light that much of this movie is shot in and the usual overwhelming music, in sum total this is a good Hallmark TV movie.

Pleasant Surprise

[bbriddell · 7/10 · 8 June 2015]

I didn't expect much and figured I could just turn it off if it was uninteresting; and Window Wonderland was a pleasant surprise.

The story draws you in to the point you can at least watch it to the end.

The characters started to matter to me and it would be great to see a second movie.

I have seen a lot of disappointing movies lately and this was a good break.

If you like some of the Hallmark Channel presentations; then this might be a good one for you.

fine Hallmark Christmas movie

[SnoopyStyle · 6/10 · 27 December 2016]

There's an opening for Manhattan department store McGuire's windows display designer. Sloan Van Doren (Chyler Leigh) is serious and driven. She puts on a facade even with her rich boyfriend Kenneth Carlyle. She has the fake name and her mother Rita Dorentella (Naomi Judd) works as the bathroom attendant at the store. Her competition is the free-spirit Jake Dooley (Paul Campbell). His easy-going manners frustrates her. The janitor Mac sees their combative flirtatious relationship. One night, they get locked in the store together. She discovers that he has been spending the nights in the store. Their attraction grows as Kenneth's snobbish characteristics come out.

This is a perfectly fine Hallmark Christmas romance. The fake NYC is obvious but it doesn't overwhelm. This stuff boils down to the leads. Leigh is perfectly charming and Campbell is a boyish rogue. They are sweet together. There is nothing surprising and nothing offensive. The store display window as a story element is passed its prime. The only display that actually hit is the family food fight. I like that they go overboard with the fight. Otherwise, this is what one expects from this type of movie with a couple of photogenic charming leads.

A Winner

[jonmarn · 10/10 · 4 October 2015]

I am a total Christmas nut - there isn't a day that goes by that I don't think of some aspect of Christmas. Yep, am even happy about decorations showing up in stores before the end of summer. Window Wonderland is a delightful story which is well written and well acted. The main characters compete for the favor of their boss by decorating the front windows of the department store where they're employed. The plot weaves in and out, circumstances change, people interplay, and a story, which I believe could end up being a Christmas Classic, evolves. With a wonderful ending, it's sure to satisfy even the pickiest of viewers. It's a fairly new release (2013) so I'm having a bit of a problem finding a copy to purchase but I'm sure that will happen, too. Window Wonderland is well worth the watch and will help warm your heart for the Christmas season.

Well worth the watch

[jewelch · 6/10 · 27 November 2020]

Both leads did a very good job and I guess I should have seen the ending coming but I did not and it is awesome. Yes I recommend it. James Welch Henderson, Arkansas 11/26/2020

Not a fan of Hallmark Movies, Loved this one!

[lolash-98704 · 10/10 · 18 December 2015]

I have watched many Hallmark movies, particularly Christmas ones, and the large majority have been subpar. Many are typical with bland love stories, bad person becoming good, unrealistic plot lines and uninspiring dialogue. This movie is a huge exception. The main characters are likable. The lines are funny, witty and on-point. The story keeps your attention. Yes, there is predictability. You won't be blown out of your seat by twist and turns. BUT, it is one of the best Christmas themed movies I have seen on any network in my decades of Christmas-movie-watching. It's sweet. It's funny. You root for the characters. You appreciate that it's not your run-of-the-mill, mass- produced Christmas love story that you have seen hundreds times. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!

I might watch this again

[Christmas-Reviewer · 6/10 · 7 August 2016]

A department-store window decorator learns there is a vacancy for her dream job in the run-up to Christmas, only to find a professional rival has his eye on it too

There is many familiar faces cast in this film which gives this film a nice cozy feeling. What I did not care for was the fact there was no huge surprises in the film. Now it was pleasant to watch and I knew what was coming however there should of been a little more backbone.

IF you are looking for something to watch don't avoid this film it is worth watching ONCE!

Kids will be bored.

Window AWFUL-land!

[adoptshelterpetstoday · 1/10 · 19 December 2014]

The only "wonder" about it, is: why was this lousy movie even made?

If Hallmark's Christmas movie producers are vying to see who could come up with the worst movie, then I vote for this movie to being one of MANY that is strongly in the lead!

When I saw the cheerful previews...and with the great title...I imagined that I would be seeing all kinds of wonderful window scenes...even with magical effects. Boy, was I wrong...very wrong!

The lousy window presentations throughout were consistent with the entire movie being lousy throughout.

The plot just dragged and dragged and dragged. The players and their lines were as dull as can be. Nothing cheerful or enticing about any of it.

Naomi Judd's part was ridiculous!...actually, somewhat moronic. With her cheap appearance....and the scene with her in front of the store on the sidewalk...and the scene with the juvenile food fight, are the factors that contributed to that perception.

More Than Just Window Dressing

[bobocopof · 8/10 · 10 February 2018]

This has more depth and substance than your average Hallmark Christmas movie. The leads are well matched and Naomi Judd is a wonderful in her supporting role. And could it be that the female lead is named as a homage to Philip van Doren Stern, the writer of The Greatest Gift, the short story that was turned into an obscure little Christmas movie entitled, It's A Wonderful Life?

It goes through the usual, slow coming together, then sudden falling out, and final happy ending of all Hallmark romantic movies. But, in this case whole is greater than the sum of its parts. My only criticism is the music. I found it too loud and intrusive, in parts. And not Christmasy enough. But that does not detract too much from this festive gem. Do watch it. You will not be disappointed.

Who can dress the best shop window and does it really matter

[peterkoch-98114 · 7/10 · 18 February 2017]

The title for this film should be 'Don't try this at home' as mostly the story is implausible, but then, at the same time, possible. Whimsical is the best description, while being the reason it is so charming. For those expecting Happy Ever After, you won't be disappointed, but then it's a nice feeling to be left with.

A young woman and man are put up against each other for the position of chief window dresser in a major department store. There's no point choosing whose side you're on because you just know that they'll end up being on the same side, in fact it would disappoint if they weren't. What's enjoyable about the film is the route chosen to get them there. There are surprises and smiles; that is if you allow the director to lay out the course without prejudgment or criticism.

The he and she main actors are eminently likable and the characters they play suited to each other, while the supporting cast provide a varied selection to cuddle or curse. Like a stream, we know the course of travel, and when our little craft bumps into the river bank the supporting cast are there to push it off again. You might be surprised if you are surprised by the ending, but our hero and heroine seemed perfectly relaxed, perhaps having enjoyed the film as much as we did.

Conclusion: 7.5 Xmas points, for a simple story that leaves you smiling.

Cold with no chemistry or atmosphere

[MovieTVRomanceFan · 1/10 · 6 November 2020]

When the movie first started I could tell almost instantly this movie had no chemistry or feel goodness about it. I didn't connect with the characters and it just felt so cold with zero chemistry. I wouldn't watch it again or recommend it to others.

Nice find

[zdarov · 7/10 · 16 December 2023]

I've watched 20 or more of these movies like some of you have. I liked this one for feeling more about a friendship developing between the leads vs. 'romance' per se. They're both a pleasure to watch, not too saccharine and not so pretty like is often the case, they look more like real people. The supporting actors are a pleasure, too. Sweet to see Naomi Judd. Other reviewers said they've rewatched, I may do so too.

Now come the filler words so I can submit this. Now come the filler words so I can submit this. Now come the filler words so I can submit this. Now come the filler words so I can submit this.

Smart, Witty, and Wonderful Story; Could Have been a Theatrical Release!

[Dark_Lord_Mark · 10/10 · 1 December 2016]

This movie is well done. When it was over, I hated that it WAS over.

This movie is wonderful and yes it's a Christmas movie on the Hallmark channel, but this could have been a theatrical release. I think that highly of it.

It has some smart written dialogue and well acted. The movie has a couple of clichéd twists as it is a Hallmark movie and a Christmas movie, but it is clichéd wrapped in an engaging story, engaging cast, and some well acted scenes.

The movie is about two employees competing for a job by the way of a window display. Sounds simple, but the movie was so well constructed and the plot evolves, you want the characters to have a good ending and benefits both leads. I will not say how it ends, but it is a Christmas movie.

If you want to watch a movie for Christmas, this is for you. In fact I think this is right up there with any classical Christmas movie. Charlie Brown, Love Actually, White Christmas....this is that good imo.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND! MUST SEE! I give it a perfect score, 10 out of 10! You will enjoy almost every aspect of this experience.

Excellent Movie and Cast with Great Funny Dialogue

[gehewe · 9/10 · 18 November 2018]

I watched this movie 4 years ago and decided to watch it again after seeing the co-star Paul Campbell in Surprised by Love and Once upon a Holiday. Glad I did. The dialogue between Paul Campbell and the short haired Chyler Leigh is witty, fast and fun-fun-ny. Some good familiar support with Naomi Judd, Eric Keenleyside and Terence Kelly. Cameron Matheson also has a role. Very Well Done.

Charming wonderland

[TheLittleSongbird · 8/10 · 14 April 2020]

Was a little unsure as to what my feelings would be on 'Window Wonderland' before watching. The premise sounded very sweet and had potential to have more depth than most Hallmark Christmas films. Love Christmas, always have and always will, and have many childhood Christmas favourites that hold up well still. Did have a couple of reservations, with the title being cheesy and Hallmark's Christmas output being quite inconsistent, a fair share of them not very good.

One of the surprisingly very good efforts though is 'Window Wonderland'. While it isn't for me one of my favourites, for Hallmark (festive and otherwise) it was pretty close to great. As far as Hallmark Christmas films, even if with its imperfections, 'Window Wonderland' is easily one of the best, makes the most of its premise and much better than its title sounds. The title made it sound cheesy and saccharine, but it's neither or at least compared to other Hallmark festive films.

Its weak link is the music, will agree with others here who have felt the same, which is too overbearing and should have been used a lot less and less obviously.

At times the lighting is a touch drab.

However, 'Window Wonderland' is nicely photographed and the interiors and displays have a real charm to them. Despite the lack of authenticity, the locations are made good use of and are lovely in their own right. The direction is accomodating but still gives the right amount of momentum. The script has a nice flow, doesn't have any unintentional humour and doesn't get too sappy. Really liked the playful banter and lightness of touch while having some genuine emotion as well.

Despite the story being very cliched, 'Window Wonderland' executes its cliches a lot less obviously and more freshly than most Hallmark efforts. It doesn't take itself too seriously, the playfulness is to thank for that, while still having more depth and poignancy than most Hallmark Christmas films. Lots of charm and it's amusing, heart-warming and moving in equal measure. It is always great to have characters in a film that don't grate, aren't dull and don't feel pointless. The characters here may be familiar in type but did find myself investing in them and liking their development (not always the case with Hallmark). The acting is really quite good all round, with affectionate chemistry between the two leads.

Summing up, surprisingly very good. A distinction not usually given for Hallmark films. 8/10

Delightful and funny

[craig-10930 · 8/10 · 16 December 2019]

I found the main characters (and the writing for them) witty and hilarious. The reactions and situations are believable, although silly. Naomi Judd is quite good. There are heartfelt moments and good chemistry. I recommend this Hallmark Christmas movie.

Hallmark's Best Holiday Movie, Hands Down

[redbirds-813-601021 · 10/10 · 16 December 2018]

I've seen each and every Hallmark Holiday Release of the past decade and hands down, none of them are as good as Window Wonderland

The standout points are Paul Campbell, who makes any Hallmark Movie he's in, better. He's offbeat and goofy in a very sincere sense. His chemistry with Chyler Leigh in this one is outstanding. The cast is perfect and the storyline is different enough to stand out from the similar releases Hallmark has each year. Naomi Judd and Terence Kelly are a perfect older couple that we see Jake trying to get together, despite the unsurity of Sloan, Judd's daughter in this one. If you think every Hallmark Holiday Movie is the same, give this one a try, you won't be disappointed.

I watch this every year. Smart, funny, warm. Better than the rest.

[PowergirlsMom · 10/10 · 23 December 2018]

I have watched a million Hallmark movies, and most are quite formulaic and predictable.

This one stands out with its excellent writing and chemistry amongst the cast. Mild possible spoiler with the following question: In that one scene where there is " no cell signal", why wouldn't the phones work out on the balcony? That is the only true suspension of disbelief needed, on this otherwise flawless holiday romance. An annual must. Still.

Really good Hallmark holiday movie!

[joasiafly · 10/10 · 7 August 2018]

This film deviates from the typical Hallmark boy-meets-girl formula in that it has a clever, witty script and two stars whose chemistry is palpable.

As one of the side characters remarks of the two, "Bickering is a sign of affection."

The script is very well written, and reminds me of classics with Tracy and Hepburn. Paul Campbell is adorable and Chyler Leigh is the perfect foil to his annoying witticisms.

Add to that scene-stealer Naomi Judd and you have a truly enjoyable movie.

Heartwarming!

[megisasuperstar · 9/10 · 19 December 2018]

A few typical Hallmark cliches, but overall this movie is intriguing, surprising, funny, and a delight to watch. My family and I have watched it every year since its debut.

Still one of my favorites....

[jenrn-09722 · 10/10 · 21 March 2021]

I just started watching Hallmark movies when this one came out and it still is one of my favorites. This was a true ensemble cast movie and most Hallmark movies cannot say that. The focus is usually the main characters and the rest fade into the background. The characters all played off each other well, and this is one of the few movies that there was no villain or conflict, just a couple who had to figure things out for themselves. Paul Campbell really shines in this as the charming, boy-next-door type who thinks the girl is too good for him, but he has to give it a shot. And Chyler Leigh is sensational as the girl trying to distance herself from what she considers to be an unsavory background. Her pixie hairstyle is beautiful on her - it adds to the illusion of sophistication that her upper class wanna be character is trying to achieve. She starts out dating the guy she thinks she should be with, only to find out he's shallow and only cares about how other see him. Exactly how she is herself - and it gives her the perspective she needs to evolve and realize she can be herself and it's enough. None of the characters are petty or mean. No one is trying to take over or close the store. Even the grumpy boss, Mr. Fitch, softens at the end. It is just a nice, warm fuzzies, get-you-in-the-holiday-spirit movie. Perfect for Christmas time.

One of the very best Hallmark Christmas romances

[jensenholmesPA · 9/10 · 10 November 2021]

9/10 STARS *on a Hallmark scale*

I've watched quite a few of the new 2021 Hallmark's this year, and this golden oldie from 2013 blows them out of the water.

Let's start with PAUL CAMPBELL, one of my favorite Hallmark leads. Gotta love a guy with a sense of humor, and Campbell is Hallmark's own version of Ryan Reynolds. Whether he improvised or this was just that good a script, he has lots of great banter and gags in this movie.

The theme of two competing window dressers at a big department store is fun, offering both a her-him competition and an artsy-crafty story. I also loved that the girl (Chyler Leigh playing Sloan Van Doren) came from a working class family and was trying to present herself as rich and cultured. Naomi Judd plays her bathroom-attendant mother to perfection. And, of course, Paul's character fits right in with her rowdy, fun, low-brow family (but Sloan's snobby fiancé does not). Matty Finochio is also a lot of fun as their department store boss.

If you like Hallmark Christmas movies, this one is not to be missed.

One of my favorite Hallmarks ever

[HotToastyRag · 10/10 · 16 December 2022]

Window Wonderland is one of my favorite Hallmark Christmas movies ever. It's a laugh a minute, with quick quips and great set-ups that take their time. I'll forever be a Paul Campbell fan because of his cute, charming character. Anytime I see his name in a Hallmark movie, I make sure to watch it. Chyler Leigh didn't make any more Hallmarks after this one, but you'll probably recognize her from her years in Grey's Anatomy and Supergirl.

Chyler and Paul play rival window dressers in a Macy's-type department store. They're vying for the top position, and their harried boss, Matty Finochio, gives them each one window to dress in the days before Christmas. Whichever window is best and brings in the most customers will get the job. As Chyler projects class, education, and strategy, Paul is laid-back, last-minute, and informal. He takes five minutes to sketch his window design on a used napkin, and Chyler stays up all night to plan hers. She's intent on climbing the corporate ladder and likes hobnobbing with high society, including her boyfriend, Cameron Mathison. Paul isn't particular; he's kind to both Naomi Judd, a bathroom attendant, and Terence Kelly, a window washer.

As this Hallmark is nearly ten years old, you might not have seen it. I understand the temptation to watch all the new releases, and sometimes old favorites slip through the cracks. If you like romance without needless misunderstandings, humor without silliness, and sweetness without cheese, you'll probably love Window Wonderland as much as I do.