I thought this movie was good, although I wouldn't call it a Christmas movie. It takes place during Christmas, but Christmas isn't important to the story or the characters. Essentially, take out all mentions of Christmas, and the film would be exactly the same.

That said, I enjoyed it and I liked the songs. I thought the chemistry between the characters didn't really develop until midway though the film. The characters were likable, but had some superficial and forced moments in the beginning. The singing for the songs didn't match the characters' lips.

I think the Gustafson subplot may have been a little under-cooked. While it was good in principle, it felt forced and inarticulate. It didn't really add anything to the plot besides a cliche villain. Key played the part well, but that's the only highlight of the story for his role. Gustafson's story could have easily reinforced the A-story, but instead tried, and failed, to compete with it.

All that negativity aside, the younger cast and the eldest of the cast played their roles spectacularly and their scenes stood out. I really liked how well executed the "suddenly breaking into song"s were done. Going from story to song and back to story was real smooth, and the songs did well to reinforce the plot and mood.

Definitely one to watch during the holidays, but don't expect a Christmas movie.