🔗 Share this article The Film Christmas, Again Review – This Relaxed Story of a Lonely Christmas Tree Seller Has Authentic Charm This constitutes a New York drama with such a relaxed pace that it has taken a decade to reach the UK’s cinema screens. Initially unveiled in the US in 2015, it’s an ultra-low-budget debut from first-time director Charles Poekel, taking place largely on a 24-hour pop-up Christmas tree stall. Poekel’s style is far too authentic-indie and naturalistic to get slushy or sentimental about Christmas; through his lens Christmas tree lights flash like police lights. But with its subtle approach, he pitches his film perfectly for a modest dose of festive warmth. A Jaded Seller in the Brooklyn Cold Kentucker Audley stars as Noel (it took someone in the film to comment on his name before I twigged). Noel returns for his fifth year selling Christmas trees in Brooklyn, working outdoors in the freezing cold and resting in a not-much-warmer caravan stationed beside the trees. A few customers inquire after the girl working with him last year. But this year Noel works solo, broken-hearted and on the night shift. There’s a documentary feel to many of the scenes, with customers posing idle and peculiar questions. A customer requests the same Christmas tree as the Obamas (the story is set in 2014). Noel looks frozen to the bone in body and spirit; he’s exhausted and disenchanted, though Audley’s understated acting makes it clear that he hadn't always been like this. Understated Encounters and Flickers of Hope In truth, not much happens. Noel comes to the aid of a woman, Lydia (Hannah Gross), who has passed out drunk on a bench. She pops up again later in some genuinely moving scenes as Noel drives around New York, delivering trees – and these moments could spark a little flicker of good cheer even in the most cynical viewer. Poekel has not directed a feature since this, which is a shame – you can’t beat it for authenticity and fluidity, and it’s shot on gorgeously textured 16mm film. The film of quiet charm and real atmosphere, capturing the loneliness and fleeting connection of the holidays. Christmas, Again opens in UK cinemas from 12 December.