In this gentle and undemanding mix of drama and fantasy, a grieving family hasn't celebrated Christmas for 11 years following the death of a son in the first Gulf War. But the festive season suddenly works its magic when dad William Devane decides it's finally time for them to embrace life again. The simple, heart-tugging that predictably ensues then gets beefed up with flashbacks and an engaging supernatural twist, as the arrival of a serene stranger (Dean McDermott) miraculously completes the clan's healing through his soothing wisdom and curiously familiar mannerisms. Understated performances and a tender script enhance the film's old-fashioned charm, while the increasing poignancy of events makes some of the more far-fetched moments easier to swallow.

The Boyajian family learned of 18-year-old John's death in the Persian Gulf War on Christmas Eve eleven years earlier and have not celebrated Christmas since. They have been so consumed by his death that they have forgotten the joys of the holidays, until a mysterious visitor enters their lives and rekindles the spirit of the season.