Review: “A Cowboy Christmas” (2023)

Fancy banner done in a navy ground. On either side, Hollywood red curtains tied back with pearl-white cords. In the center of the banner are four gold-navy-&-red art deco-styled brackets framing out the words “Books by Alicia Presents” (in gold), an art deco element beneath, then “Christmas Romance Reviews” (in pearl white).

Basic banner of navy ground and very light gold art-deco brackets in the upper left and bottom right corners. In bolded pearl white, a movie title is written. This one says, “A Cowboy Christmas.” Beneath it, in gold, is the date (2023) the movie came out sandwiched between two gold art deco elements.

~ A Charming Holiday Western Romance ~

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Teagan Vincze as “Ella Ward”
Brennan Martin as “Cole Reesor”
Brenna Coates as “Marty Reesor”
Kent Allen as “Preston Vance”
Location: Historic Reesor Ranch, Maple Creek, Saskatchewan, Canada
Platform: Tubi
Date: December 27, 2024

Fancy banner with a thick gold border. In the center, in Hollywood red, the words, “Classic Cinema Scale.” Beneath it, three film reels—the top in gold, middle in silver, bottom in bronze. Each has words done in navy. For the gold reel, “Golden Age Worthy: Exceptional performances, chemistry, and production that capture the magic of classic Hollywood.” For the silver, “Matinee Material: Good entertainment with solid elements, though not quite reaching classic status.” And the bronze, “B-Movie Blues: Missing the mark despite potential.”

Matinee Material — A solid holiday romance with authentic ranch charm, despite some acting uncertainties

Fancy banner with a thick gold border. In the center, in Hollywood red, the words, “Tissue Box Scale.” Beneath it, a column of tissue boxes, all in red, gold, and navy—the top is a single box, middle is two, bottom is three. Each has words done in navy. For the single box, “One Box: Keep a tissue handy, but your makeup is safe.” For the duo, “Two Boxes: You’ll definitely need those tissues, but you’ll still be presentable after.” And the trio, “Three Boxes: “Is pepperoni okay?” territory — don’t even bother with mascara!”

Two Boxes — Get those tissues ready — between the sweet romance, family moments, and Christmas magic at the ranch, you'll need them! This one hits those heartwarming notes that make you tear up while smiling.

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A charming fish-out-of-water tale where city meets country at Christmas.

When marketing executive Ella Wade arrives at a working ranch in impractical heels and a business suit, she quite literally falls into a holiday romance with ranch owner Cole, complete with a perfect Cinderella-inspired meet-cute moment.

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The leads deliver solid performances despite occasional moments of awkwardness. The actor who plays Cole embodies authentic cowboy charm with his grizzled good looks and natural presence both in and out of his signature hat.

The actress playing Ella brings a genuine smile and natural speaking style, though somewhat overshadowed by excessive makeup (which she so didn’t need because she’s pretty).

The supporting cast shines, particularly Frank the stableman (played by Leo Fafard), Preston, and Marty, who all bring warmth and subtle matchmaking skills to their roles. Only Gerard Nivens’ (Jason Truong) performance feels stiff and under-rehearsed.

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Filmed at the actual Historic Reesor Ranch, the setting provides authentic ranch atmosphere enhanced by perfect Christmas decorations that blend country charm with rustic elegance. The remote location and cozy interiors create an inspiring winter retreat atmosphere.

The wardrobe appropriately transitions from Ella’s initial city-slicker business attire to practical Western wear, demonstrating proper attention to lifestyle-appropriate clothing. The Western gear maintains authenticity throughout, though Ella’s makeup feels overdone for the ranch setting.

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The film hits classic romance tropes effectively: the fish-out-of-water scenario, the meet-cute with a Cinderella twist, and the wounded hero with a past romantic disappointment.

The story builds tension well, including a masterfully teased almost-kiss moment on the porch that leaves viewers wanting more.

(No, seriously. I actually screamed, “Kiss already!” 😊)

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Contains only one kiss at the very end, which is sweet and old-fashioned — suitable for family viewing. No content concerns for younger viewers.

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While not quite reaching Golden Age standards due to occasional acting uncertainties, this charming holiday romance earns a place on the annual rewatch list. It successfully combines Christmas charm, authentic ranch life, and sweet romance with genuine emotional moments that can bring both tears and laughter.

Good music. Very toe-tapping. No annoying female screeching. (Very important in my book when it comes to music!)
Authentic ranch setting and atmosphere
Strong supporting cast
Beautiful Christmas decorations
Well-executed meet-cute
Natural dialogue without affected speech patterns (aka, no Valley)

Occasional stiff performances
Overdone makeup on female lead
Wooden delivery from Gerard’s character

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As both a romance novelist and lover of all things Christmas, this film particularly resonated with me. The ranch setting sparked creative inspiration — I could easily imagine writing chapters in one of those cozy rooms.

Interestingly, the hero’s backstory parallels elements from my own cowboy romance novel, though I maintain mine handles the city-girl-meets-cowboy trope better! (But that’s just my humble opinion. 😉)

The discovery that this is a real ranch (Historic Reesor Ranch) adds an extra layer of charm and has made it a potential future Christmas destination.

Okay, so, what’s your take on this Christmas movie? Share your thoughts, favorite moments, or fashion observations in the comments below!

Related topics: Christmas romance, holiday movies, classic Hollywood, fashion in film, romantic comedy, seasonal entertainment

This review is part of “BBA’s 12 Days of Christmas Movie Reviews” series. Check back daily for a new review!

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Alicia Strickland

As a romance novelist with expertise in fashion, interior design, and a deep love of classic Hollywood, I bring a unique perspective to holiday romance reviews. Join me in exploring the magic (and occasional missteps) of Christmas movies!

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Alicia Strickland

Hi! I write across multiple genres under various pen names. But for nonfiction, I write as myself. As a designer with a love of Old Hollywood and all things creative, I bring diverse perspectives to my storytelling... and to my blog. In the unlikely event that I’m not writing, I enjoy crafting, gardening, or spending time with my flame-point Siamese, Hunter.

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