Story: Bridget (Valery M. Ortiz) has turned a small role at her local news station into a sensation, as her weather forecasts have become a smash hit. As the ratings climb, it gets the attention of her bosses and in an effort to elevate Bridget’s profile, she is given a holiday assignment as part of the morning news show, as opposed to her usual evening news role. While she is told that the morning show’s popular anchor Tatum (Sarah Jane Morris) wasn’t going to be involved, once Bridget arrives in the Christmas infused small town, she discovers that Tatum is there and has plans to be very involved. Can Bridget hold on to this important opportunity or will Tatum use her star power to steal the spotlight for herself?

Entertainment Value: This is a brisk, cute holiday romance that checks all the boxes expected from a Lifetime Christmas movie. The narrative is simple, but it does what it needs to and sets up both our potential romance and a passable side thread about a clash over a work promotion. While Bridget does find herself in a little bit of a perhaps competition over both the promotion and the romance, Cloudy with a Chance of Christmas doesn’t have much tension or conflict, it is a smooth ride throughout. So don’t expect emotional outbursts or mean girl antics, as this is a more grounded, relaxed type of approach. The production values are good and while the movie didn’t bowl me over, it was solid entertainment, for those who appreciate the genre. I doubt this will win over those who dislike the genre however, as it is so rooted in the conventions that people love about Lifetime and Hallmark holiday films, which is not a knock at all. The filmmakers knew their audience and delivered an experience that reflects that, so for those interested, this is an enjoyable watch.

Our lead here is Valery M. Ortiz, who handles the role with ease and brings a great energy to the movie. I think she is able to make the romance, humor, and drama all work, so her performance is solid across the board. She seems to be at her best when she has more light hearted material, though as I said, she makes the dramatic moments ring true as well. I think her charisma is remarkable at times and she has good screen presence, while she can also seem to get the best from her costars also. I was pleased to see Audrey Landers was also here, in a small, but memorable role that she brings a lot to. She adds some star power to Cloudy with a Chance of Christmas and is always good to see her at work. The cast also includes Brandon Quinn, Sarah Jane Morris, Nicole Bilderback, Deon Richmond, and John Laughlin.

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