The holiday season brings the premiere of the enchanting film "Natale a Biltmore" on Rai 2, set to air tonight, December 25, 2024, at 21:20. Directed by John Putch, this romantic Christmas movie promises to captivate viewers with its charming blend of fantasy and nostalgia.
"Natale a Biltmore" tells the story of Lucy Hargrove, played by Bethany Joy Lenz. Lucy is not just any ordinary young writer; she’s been handpicked to work on the screenplay for the highly anticipated remake of the beloved Christmas film, "His Merry Wife!" This original film, now regarded as a classic, was filmed at the historic Biltmore House back in 1947. Excited yet overwhelmed, Lucy soon finds herself at odds with the studio producer, who demands drastic changes to her screenplay. Faced with the challenge of finding the right romantic ending, Lucy decides to immerse herself fully by visiting the Biltmore estate to capture its enchanting atmosphere.
On her visit, Lucy’s life takes a magical turn when she accidentally spills something, causing her to stumble upon a mysterious hourglass. This antique object unexpectedly transports her back to the original film's set—1946! It’s here where she meets the charming actor Jack Huston, portrayed by Kristoffer Polaha, sparking both not only inspiration for her screenplay but also blossoming romance.
Lucy’s journeys to the past become pivotal as she uncovers the story behind the original film's ending. While trying to find the truth, she also navigates the struggles of influencing the filming of the classic movie, questioning her role and whether her interventions might lead to unintended consequences. "Somehow, my presence here complicates everything," she muses, reflecting her internal conflict between love, career aspirations, and the timeline she risks altering.
The film's setting, the Biltmore House, adds not just aesthetic beauty but also historical depth to the story. Known for its stunning architecture and rich legacy, the estate struck the perfect backdrop for the film and draws viewers to the magic of its Christmas spirit. "Natale a Biltmore promises to offer a blend of romance and Christmas magic, honoring the timeless charm of festive stories," claims one of the articles.
Adding to the film’s allure is the supporting cast, including Robert Picardo as Harold Balaban and Jonathan Frakes as Winston, the estate curator. Each character contributes to Lucy’s development and the overall plot, enhancing the film's depth and exploration of romance intertwined with heartfelt holiday themes.
Despite Lucy's initial doubts about love and creativity, her experiences at Biltmore allow her to reconnect not only with her craft but also with her longing for emotional depth and connection. "When Lucy finds herself on the original film set, she decides to discover the truth about the original ending," captures her turning point perfectly.
The film has received positive early acclaim, indicated by its strong IMDb rating of 7.8 out of 10, showcasing its potential to become this season's new holiday favorite. Set to premiere during this festive occasion, "Natale a Biltmore" is aiming for nothing less than cult status among Christmas films—an enchanting tale meant to be shared across generations.
Viewers can delight in this extraordinary blend of time travel, romance, and seasonal cheer, perfectly encapsulated by Lucy's transformative adventures and the iconic setting of the Biltmore House. Tune in tonight to Rai 2 for what promises to be an unforgettable holiday cinematic experience.
