Noel is lovely holiday fare. The tag line could be "Everything that happens, happens for a reason". This holiday story reveals characters that are easy to identify with and through the circumstances that unfold, their lives weave a tapestry of love, growth and the often overlooked kindness of humanity. The storyline and dialogue bring plenty of warm hearted sentimentality to the film which is nicely offset by incidents of comic relief. Susan Sarandon and Robin Williams deliver wonderful performances and you will find yourself deeply caring about their characters. Director Chazz Palminteri brings out another side of Paul Walker, proving that Mr. Walker can do more than just drive fast cars. Penelope Cruz is as lovely as ever lending inner beauty through her character as well. Alan Arkin plays a delightful character with a twist. The remaining cast, including a cameo by Mr. Palminteri, does a nice job of completing the ensemble and giving this story heart. Though the story revolves around the Christmas holiday, it may serve to remind us that each person is connected to one another within the human family no matter what the season.
68 Reviews
You understand? It's over. I forgive you for everything.
lastliberal9 December 2007
The old Calypso song goes "If you want to be happy for the rest of your life, never make a pretty woman your wife." But, what are you supposed to do if your fiancé is Penelope Cruz? That is Paul Walker's (The Fast and the Furious) problem, and he has a jealous streak. Who wouldn't with Cruz, but it is going to kill his upcoming marriage. No problem, Alan Arkin (Little Miss Sunshine) comes to the rescue in a strange way and saves the day.
But, Walker isn't the only one with a problem. Susan Sarandon (Dead Man Walking) has a mother with Alzheimer's and her life is a mess. Who to save her but a burned-out priest (Robin Williams). Well, they really save each other.
This is a sentimental Christmas tale with some laughs, but it is mostly about Christmas miracles. Watch it for the great cast.
But, Walker isn't the only one with a problem. Susan Sarandon (Dead Man Walking) has a mother with Alzheimer's and her life is a mess. Who to save her but a burned-out priest (Robin Williams). Well, they really save each other.
This is a sentimental Christmas tale with some laughs, but it is mostly about Christmas miracles. Watch it for the great cast.
Noel is unusual holiday fare, tackling difficult subjects while still reaching for a happy ending
inkblot1116 November 2006
Rose (Susan Sarandon) is an author of children's books who is especially lonely this holiday season. Her mother, who is stricken with Alheimer's disease, is having difficulty eating normally and recognizing anyone around her. Rose, a divorcée, has not had a serious romance for quite sometime. And, although a young gentleman in the office makes a pass at her, she is not willing to have a one night encounter. Nina, a lovely young lady, has a good looking, police officer-fiancé but, alas. Mike has a jealous streak that produces sharp anger and abuse, at times. Nina is not certain she wants to continue the relationship. Meanwhile, others in NYC are dealing with baggage from abusive fathers, criminal pasts, and religious doubts. Is this truly the "most wonderful time of the year?" This is a very compelling but rather serious entry into the world of holiday movies. The subject matter is most sobering, even as there are moments of humor and happiness. All of the performers are fine and so is the lovely look of the film's design. If anyone is feeling down at holiday time, this is NOT the film to bring out for a showing. That said, if anyone wishes to watch a thoughtful movie about real issues, try to find this movie during the off season. It has many assets and will enlighten and entertain viewers at the same time.
Touching moments, mostly worthwhile and well done
vchimpanzee12 December 2014
Quietly sitting in a hospital is a mysterious and kind man played by Robin Williams. Is he an angel? I'm not going to say. All I will say is that he and Rose help each other feel better.
Artie works in a restaurant. He lost his wife years ago and recognizes that Mike likes many of the same things his wife did. Could he be Mike's long-lost father? No, it's actually much weirder than that, and Artie and Mike end up spending time together, which is not entirely positive.
This is not always a pleasant movie, but it does have some touching moments and great performances. Susan Sarandon does such a good job, showing a very caring attitude, and putting on a good front when the truth her character is miserable. Penelope Cruz has such a positive attitude for what she is going through.
Alan Arkin also shows his talent.
And Robin Williams is amazing as always. He isn't that funny here but he has an ability for pleasant drama. Especially after what just happened to him, it's nice to see him as a man of faith and to hope Williams really did believe in something.
The storyline about Marcus I could have done without. He doesn't seem to interact with the others but merely happens to be in the same room at one point.
Is this a family movie? I wouldn't recommend it for kids, but it has some of the qualities of a holiday family drama. It just reminds us all too much that not everyone has happy holidays, while showing how we can make each other's lives better. And someone forgot to bleep the s-word a couple of times. I don't know whether this means everyone hears it or someone was supposed to be monitoring the movie as it aired. The sound did go out a couple of times later.
It's worth seeing if you don't mind being depressed before you feel better.
Artie works in a restaurant. He lost his wife years ago and recognizes that Mike likes many of the same things his wife did. Could he be Mike's long-lost father? No, it's actually much weirder than that, and Artie and Mike end up spending time together, which is not entirely positive.
This is not always a pleasant movie, but it does have some touching moments and great performances. Susan Sarandon does such a good job, showing a very caring attitude, and putting on a good front when the truth her character is miserable. Penelope Cruz has such a positive attitude for what she is going through.
Alan Arkin also shows his talent.
And Robin Williams is amazing as always. He isn't that funny here but he has an ability for pleasant drama. Especially after what just happened to him, it's nice to see him as a man of faith and to hope Williams really did believe in something.
The storyline about Marcus I could have done without. He doesn't seem to interact with the others but merely happens to be in the same room at one point.
Is this a family movie? I wouldn't recommend it for kids, but it has some of the qualities of a holiday family drama. It just reminds us all too much that not everyone has happy holidays, while showing how we can make each other's lives better. And someone forgot to bleep the s-word a couple of times. I don't know whether this means everyone hears it or someone was supposed to be monitoring the movie as it aired. The sound did go out a couple of times later.
It's worth seeing if you don't mind being depressed before you feel better.
stories of hope define who we are and we are not alone on Xmas
lark4026 November 2015
Warning: Spoilers
Five New Yorkers come together on Christmas Eve, seeking a miracle.and in this film there is key attraction of 2main characters among this a list of ensemble Xmas stories so in new york on Xmas eve Christmas Eve in New York, and the lonely divorced publisher, Rose goes on a date with a younger worker but her head is not there so with a lot of intertwining stories of helping one another like as rose and her mother as her mother , needs a miracle to improve the health of her mother, interned in a hospital with Alzheimers. She feels sorry for another patient and meets this visitor. Meanwhile, Nina Vasquez breaks her engagement with her beloved fiancé Mike due to his suffocating jealousy, but misses him. Mike is stalked by a stranger, bartender Artie Venzuela. The poor Jules arranges to spend Christmas Eve in the hospital, where he spent the best Christmas of his life when he was a teenager. The lives of some of these characters cross with others along the night.Susan suarandon character rose is losing her mind and is tempting other things until mystery person who is right next door helps her see the ways she can help her mother unkowngly not known who the man was . Paul walker character mike has this jealousy which is ruining his relationships Penelope Cruz character Nina is sultry but strong headed but the two supporting characters bring the meaning of being close this is a subplot to the main story The central characters are touched by oddballs, played by Robin Williams and Allan Arkin, .they bring a certain man love to their roles like "Prelude to a Kiss," and similarly help them reach important epiphanies at dawn. they bring closer on peoples lives who they cross this reminds us that no one is ever truly alone this Xmas this is my
tear-jerker - have the tissues nearby
blanche-222 December 2016
In need of some Christmas spirit, I decided to watch "Noel" from 2004. All I saw was the name Susan Sarandon, so I didn't realize that the late Paul Walker and the late Robin Williams, who died within nine months of each other, were also in this film. Reason enough to cry right there.
Noel is the story of several people on Christmas Eve and Christmas. Walker is Mike, a police officer, engaged to Nina (Penelope Cruz). His jealousy is tearing apart their relationship. He has another problem. Artie (Alan Arkin) who runs a coffee shop is extra-attentive and shows up at Mike's house with a wild story.
Sarandon's character, Rose, is a successful book editor who is divorced. She is caring for her mother, who has Alzheimer's and doesn't talk. In the next room there is a man who seems to be in a coma. He's always alone, so Rose, as she's decorating her mother's room, goes into his room and puts an angel on his window. In the corner of the room, behind the door, sits Charlie (Robin Williams), who startles her.
Rose meets Nina after she leaves Mike and goes to her family's Christmas Eve dinner. And she runs into Williams again; he has a bizarre story as well.
Then there's Marcus who has someone to break his hand so he can be in the hospital on Christmas. As a child, it was his best Christmas ever. We can assume from that he didn't have a very happy upbringing. Mike, Dennis, and Artie all end up at the hospital at the same time.
This is a really lovely film about miracles and angels who walk the earth whom we don't recognize as such, and how we can touch each other's lives without knowing it. It was very sweet and uplifting and, as I said, a massive tearjerker given the presence of the two late stars. One chose death; one had death thrust upon him. Either way, it's tragic.
Noel is the story of several people on Christmas Eve and Christmas. Walker is Mike, a police officer, engaged to Nina (Penelope Cruz). His jealousy is tearing apart their relationship. He has another problem. Artie (Alan Arkin) who runs a coffee shop is extra-attentive and shows up at Mike's house with a wild story.
Sarandon's character, Rose, is a successful book editor who is divorced. She is caring for her mother, who has Alzheimer's and doesn't talk. In the next room there is a man who seems to be in a coma. He's always alone, so Rose, as she's decorating her mother's room, goes into his room and puts an angel on his window. In the corner of the room, behind the door, sits Charlie (Robin Williams), who startles her.
Rose meets Nina after she leaves Mike and goes to her family's Christmas Eve dinner. And she runs into Williams again; he has a bizarre story as well.
Then there's Marcus who has someone to break his hand so he can be in the hospital on Christmas. As a child, it was his best Christmas ever. We can assume from that he didn't have a very happy upbringing. Mike, Dennis, and Artie all end up at the hospital at the same time.
This is a really lovely film about miracles and angels who walk the earth whom we don't recognize as such, and how we can touch each other's lives without knowing it. It was very sweet and uplifting and, as I said, a massive tearjerker given the presence of the two late stars. One chose death; one had death thrust upon him. Either way, it's tragic.
A really unusual movie that is not for everyone
bellino-angelo201421 January 2019
NOEL is a very unusual and underrated movie, a bit of a experiment all of his own. Because of this and the depressing nature of the movie is a movie that not all viewers would like. And some critics even hated it at the time. So what I liked of the movie? I'll explain.
As an episodic movie, it features various stories intervowen throughout the story and until the end no one can guess why all the stories are connected. At times the editing looks a bit rushed, at times slow.
The movie is about some New Yorkers that on Christmas Eve they have some hope not only for the holiday season but also for their individual lives. So what are the stories? Briefly: they involve a lonely publisher (Susan Sarandon) that tries to reassure his old mother suffering from Alzheimer's even letting a former priest (Robin Williams in an uncredited cameo) staying a night at her home, a young cop (Paul Walker) that is very jealous towards his girlfriend (Penelope Cruz) but is also pestered by a much older man (Alan Arkin, here very unlikeable), and a poor man named Jules (Marcus Thomas) that desperately wants to spend the Christmas in the hospital in the hope of a party like (according to him) they did when he was younger.
While watching, I found NOEL very interesting despite his depressing nature, and it kept my attention until the very end. Mainly because the movie features various great actors and they all give nice performances here. I loved NOEL? Not exactly, but I admired it for being a very different and inusual Christmas movie (unlike the ones always overplayed on TV like THE GRINCH, ELF, THE SANTA CLAUS). And I am proud of having seen it not only for the Robin Williams uncredited cameo.
As an episodic movie, it features various stories intervowen throughout the story and until the end no one can guess why all the stories are connected. At times the editing looks a bit rushed, at times slow.
The movie is about some New Yorkers that on Christmas Eve they have some hope not only for the holiday season but also for their individual lives. So what are the stories? Briefly: they involve a lonely publisher (Susan Sarandon) that tries to reassure his old mother suffering from Alzheimer's even letting a former priest (Robin Williams in an uncredited cameo) staying a night at her home, a young cop (Paul Walker) that is very jealous towards his girlfriend (Penelope Cruz) but is also pestered by a much older man (Alan Arkin, here very unlikeable), and a poor man named Jules (Marcus Thomas) that desperately wants to spend the Christmas in the hospital in the hope of a party like (according to him) they did when he was younger.
While watching, I found NOEL very interesting despite his depressing nature, and it kept my attention until the very end. Mainly because the movie features various great actors and they all give nice performances here. I loved NOEL? Not exactly, but I admired it for being a very different and inusual Christmas movie (unlike the ones always overplayed on TV like THE GRINCH, ELF, THE SANTA CLAUS). And I am proud of having seen it not only for the Robin Williams uncredited cameo.
Christmas crash
Lejink2 December 2012
Warning: Spoilers
With some decent star power in the acting stakes I expected more from this confused mish-mash of a Christmas movie. The idea of entwining different individual stories into one isn't original but I thought that with a Yule-tide twist it might have come together better than it did.
As usual, in the timeworn trail of George Bailey, we get a bunch of sad people at Christmas time needing a seasonal miracle to get them happily into the holiday spirit. However some of the stories are so slight and trite, they barely register, like the young man who deliberately gets himself hospitalised because he remembers a happy childhood Christmas there, away from his selfish parents, while in another bizarre episode, Alan Arkin is wasted as an old widower who tries to connect with a young cop, (Cruz's fiancé) telling him he's the reincarnation of his late wife.
The main stories of lonely divorcée Susan Sarandon, with her Alzheimer's suffering mother meeting up with Robin Williams defrocked priest and Penelope Cruz as a young bride-to-be struggling with the jealousy of her fiancé, just about pass muster, but the movie falters when the stories shift focus, plus the editing is very poor. To give just one example, after Sarandon and Cruz fortuitously hook up early on in the piece, they opt out of the latter's family Christmas dinner, head to a café for what you'd expect to be a heart-to-heart chat, but which we actually never see happen and in fact they don't even meet up again.
Indeed, the film doesn't really bring the five stories together at all, so that despite some decent acting by the principals it fails to gell and really transport the viewer into the Christmas spirit, even with some nice wintry New York city-scapes in the background.
As usual, in the timeworn trail of George Bailey, we get a bunch of sad people at Christmas time needing a seasonal miracle to get them happily into the holiday spirit. However some of the stories are so slight and trite, they barely register, like the young man who deliberately gets himself hospitalised because he remembers a happy childhood Christmas there, away from his selfish parents, while in another bizarre episode, Alan Arkin is wasted as an old widower who tries to connect with a young cop, (Cruz's fiancé) telling him he's the reincarnation of his late wife.
The main stories of lonely divorcée Susan Sarandon, with her Alzheimer's suffering mother meeting up with Robin Williams defrocked priest and Penelope Cruz as a young bride-to-be struggling with the jealousy of her fiancé, just about pass muster, but the movie falters when the stories shift focus, plus the editing is very poor. To give just one example, after Sarandon and Cruz fortuitously hook up early on in the piece, they opt out of the latter's family Christmas dinner, head to a café for what you'd expect to be a heart-to-heart chat, but which we actually never see happen and in fact they don't even meet up again.
Indeed, the film doesn't really bring the five stories together at all, so that despite some decent acting by the principals it fails to gell and really transport the viewer into the Christmas spirit, even with some nice wintry New York city-scapes in the background.
A touching gift for the holiday season
mrkeemo911 August 2006
After reading the other reviews on this film, I saw the need for an authentic review. With an all-star cast and a story written with such complex layer and beauty, it is hard to not fall deep into the spirit of this movie. As we watch each character move through the day and night before Christmas Day, we see their stories woven into an interconnected pattern which ultimately proves to the magical power that the Holiday casts on our hearts. Each story different, each life full of pain and love; both sides of the Christmas holiday are shown in this film. The lonely and the loved, the heartsick and the passionate, the joyful and the sad - Noel is a Christmas story which speaks to the truth of the magic of Holiday Season. All actors shine in this touching film, with the performances of Susan Saradon, Penelope Cruz, Paul Walker, Alan Arkin, and Robin Williams encompassing intense, simple, and artful portraits of the human condition. If you are looking for a modern Holiday movie full of the rich character and story detail found in the great reels of the past - do not turn to the numerous "Seasonal flicks" found on cable TV - but rather, discover and rediscover the magic found in Noel.
I loved the First 1/2
Christmas-Reviewer7 January 2017
BEWARE OF BOGUS REVIEWS. SOME REVIEWERS HAVE ONLY REVIEWED THIS FILM. THAT TELLS ME THEY WERE INVOLVED WITH THE PRODUCTION. I HAVE REVIEWED OVER 200 Christmas MOVIES. I HAVE NO AGENDA.
This film has several inter-winding stories. Some are more interesting than others. What it shows is that we are all connected in some form. We are different but we are also the same.
This film centers on five strangers who are linked together – and who meet each other at separate times – by a series of events that take place on Christmas Eve in New York.
The main character is Rose (Susan Sarandon), a woman who is struggling to cope with caring for her mother, an Alzheimer's patient. Meanwhile, Nina (Penélope Cruz) and Mike (Paul Walker) are a young couple on the verge of breaking up due to Mike's increasingly jealous behavior. Elsewhere, Artie (Alan Arkin) is an old waiter who searches for his deceased wife every Christmas Eve. Finally, Jules (Marcus Thomas) is a young man who deliberately damages his hand so he can attend a Christmas party in the emergency room, as that was the only happy memory of his childhood. In addition to the five main characters, the mysterious Charlie (Robin Williams) is introduced as the person who may be able to help Rose finally realize that she must look after herself more, rather than worrying about everyone else.
Some of these stories work and some don't. I think the age you are at the time of the initial viewing is important on what story you will like the best.
At times this film is a great masterpiece. At other times you get very angry but I think that was the intention. This film however works wonders by making THE VIEWER ask themselves "Where Am I Now" and "Love is important do I love enough"
Well worth watching. I will watch this again
This film has several inter-winding stories. Some are more interesting than others. What it shows is that we are all connected in some form. We are different but we are also the same.
This film centers on five strangers who are linked together – and who meet each other at separate times – by a series of events that take place on Christmas Eve in New York.
The main character is Rose (Susan Sarandon), a woman who is struggling to cope with caring for her mother, an Alzheimer's patient. Meanwhile, Nina (Penélope Cruz) and Mike (Paul Walker) are a young couple on the verge of breaking up due to Mike's increasingly jealous behavior. Elsewhere, Artie (Alan Arkin) is an old waiter who searches for his deceased wife every Christmas Eve. Finally, Jules (Marcus Thomas) is a young man who deliberately damages his hand so he can attend a Christmas party in the emergency room, as that was the only happy memory of his childhood. In addition to the five main characters, the mysterious Charlie (Robin Williams) is introduced as the person who may be able to help Rose finally realize that she must look after herself more, rather than worrying about everyone else.
Some of these stories work and some don't. I think the age you are at the time of the initial viewing is important on what story you will like the best.
At times this film is a great masterpiece. At other times you get very angry but I think that was the intention. This film however works wonders by making THE VIEWER ask themselves "Where Am I Now" and "Love is important do I love enough"
Well worth watching. I will watch this again
Give this to someone who already hates Christmas
matlock-87 December 2005
Warning: Spoilers
This is far worse than "The Brothers Grimm" (TBG). TBG was leaden, a waste of talent and resources, but it was obviously a fantasy.
This movie, "Noel," is a slow train wreck speeded up to fit into 90 minutes in attempt to be a Hallmark movie. At first you think, "Susan Sarandon, Alan Arkin, Penelope Cruz, and a cameo by a well-known comic - what could go wrong." And then the story starts. And then you know just what *can* go wrong in a movie that, admittedly, has high production values - great photography, lighting, sound. Beautiful people. A New York City that is uncrowded at Christmas, and lightly dusted with snow and ice but no garbage, graffiti, or street people anywhere. Why, you can even step out onto a busy street to hail a cab, and (this is the real fantasy) you get one within 2 seconds.
*** s p o i l e r a l e r t *** Susan Sarandon is a successful book editor who, after 20 or so years decides that she can't go on because...well, just because. Fortunately for her, even though she is fast approaching mandatory retirement, one of the best-looking young men in the office falls for her, even though he does *not* say, "You remind me of my mother," because we don't want to bring in any allusions to the Jocasta complex, although when they have their first and only kiss, you're thinking, "ugh." She also either lies or tells stories to just about everyone she meets, so when she tells a story about her stillborn daughter who was born and died on Christmas Day, you think, "Is this a story, or is this a moment of emotional revelation?" But you really don't care, because it's told to win the door prize of the fake Christmas tree on top of the piano in a cheap bar (I am not making this up). Alan Arkin is a crazy Greek restaurant owner who sees his dead wife reappear in young men. (I am not making this up.) Penelope Cruz falls for a violent, jealous man who promises over and over again to change, "and this time I mean it" so of course it will all work out. This proves that extremely beautiful women are both stupid and unable to find competent, emotionally stable men. Paul Walker is a police officer with a violent temper, a gun, and no one to point out that this is an unfortunate combination, but as he makes wonderful promises, of course this is not an issue. This proves that when violent men are policemen who love beautiful women, everything is OK, but if they do *not* love beautiful women, they are supporting cast members of "Serpico." The lives of these people weave together in strange and uncanny ways. Paul Walker breaks a Christmas angel; Alan Arkin gives a Christmas angel, and Susan Sarandon hangs a Christmas angel. There is also another story that wanders in here that involves Marcus Thomas, but it could be cut from the film and the effect of the film would be no different. (Except it would be shorter, so perhaps it would be slightly better.) This subplot also involves a snow globe with a snow man and not an angel, which I think shows either continuity problems or a slow day at Woolworths.
I've seen Susan Sarandon and Alan Arkin in films that were essentially harmless and perhaps even beneath their talents, but all along, I've loved to watch them. Penelope Cruz is, frankly, beautiful to watch.
This makes this movie all the more painful to watch, because you see talented, good-looking people speaking lines that you and they both know are unbelievable.
This movie, "Noel," is a slow train wreck speeded up to fit into 90 minutes in attempt to be a Hallmark movie. At first you think, "Susan Sarandon, Alan Arkin, Penelope Cruz, and a cameo by a well-known comic - what could go wrong." And then the story starts. And then you know just what *can* go wrong in a movie that, admittedly, has high production values - great photography, lighting, sound. Beautiful people. A New York City that is uncrowded at Christmas, and lightly dusted with snow and ice but no garbage, graffiti, or street people anywhere. Why, you can even step out onto a busy street to hail a cab, and (this is the real fantasy) you get one within 2 seconds.
*** s p o i l e r a l e r t *** Susan Sarandon is a successful book editor who, after 20 or so years decides that she can't go on because...well, just because. Fortunately for her, even though she is fast approaching mandatory retirement, one of the best-looking young men in the office falls for her, even though he does *not* say, "You remind me of my mother," because we don't want to bring in any allusions to the Jocasta complex, although when they have their first and only kiss, you're thinking, "ugh." She also either lies or tells stories to just about everyone she meets, so when she tells a story about her stillborn daughter who was born and died on Christmas Day, you think, "Is this a story, or is this a moment of emotional revelation?" But you really don't care, because it's told to win the door prize of the fake Christmas tree on top of the piano in a cheap bar (I am not making this up). Alan Arkin is a crazy Greek restaurant owner who sees his dead wife reappear in young men. (I am not making this up.) Penelope Cruz falls for a violent, jealous man who promises over and over again to change, "and this time I mean it" so of course it will all work out. This proves that extremely beautiful women are both stupid and unable to find competent, emotionally stable men. Paul Walker is a police officer with a violent temper, a gun, and no one to point out that this is an unfortunate combination, but as he makes wonderful promises, of course this is not an issue. This proves that when violent men are policemen who love beautiful women, everything is OK, but if they do *not* love beautiful women, they are supporting cast members of "Serpico." The lives of these people weave together in strange and uncanny ways. Paul Walker breaks a Christmas angel; Alan Arkin gives a Christmas angel, and Susan Sarandon hangs a Christmas angel. There is also another story that wanders in here that involves Marcus Thomas, but it could be cut from the film and the effect of the film would be no different. (Except it would be shorter, so perhaps it would be slightly better.) This subplot also involves a snow globe with a snow man and not an angel, which I think shows either continuity problems or a slow day at Woolworths.
I've seen Susan Sarandon and Alan Arkin in films that were essentially harmless and perhaps even beneath their talents, but all along, I've loved to watch them. Penelope Cruz is, frankly, beautiful to watch.
This makes this movie all the more painful to watch, because you see talented, good-looking people speaking lines that you and they both know are unbelievable.
Modern Day Holiday Classic
filmguyCI23 December 2006
I started watching this expecting a typical TV movie of the week. Excellent writing, directing, and acting by a great cast make it so much more. "Noel" is a beautiful story that is set in New York City on Christmas Eve and follows several characters whose lives intersect including Susan Sarandon as a lonely single woman caring for a sick mother, Paul Walker as an engaged man who can't seem to feel secure in his relationship with his fiancée(Penelope Cruz), and Alan Arkin as a man with a past that he can't seem to move on from. Themes of loneliness, jealousy, regret, are covered as well as love, acceptance, and reconciliation. If you are looking for a feel good tearjerker to watch over the holiday, I highly recommend this under seen gem.
Good entertainment
bbewnylorac13 December 2012
Warning: Spoilers
A curious little film that I received from a magazine DVD giveaway (!) and that I watched in December on a quiet night. It has an excellent cast, great cinematography and a sincere script. Things I liked include the banter between the two cop partners; Penelope Cruz's acting; and an intelligent Susan Sarandon in just about every scene. The problem is that it is a little too sweet. There are some very dark themes -- the death of a baby; a jealous husband's violence leading to death; and a young man so distressed he badly injures himself. Yet the audience doesn't witness these horrible things; they're all just described to us. You get the sense that all the loose ends will be tied up, and the film has quite a gentle pace. But it is obviously a movie made with love, and the cast give it their all. And there are some great ideas and some really lovely scenes, such as Sarandon gatecrashing a party and longing to belong to a big family.
look folks, it's "Kids" at Christmas. but even more depressing.
camel-wides19 November 2005
i really did not like this movie at ALL! it's a retread of the same old threads coming together film, but done really really badly. there are no real interactions between the character lines, other than them being in the same hospital (and not even all of them) i am totally willing to suspend disbelief on the hole Christmas miracle thing, but sincerely, this movie is garbage.
none of the characters were deeper than a cardboard cutout... scratch that, i've seen cardboard cutouts with more depth.
if you are a girl under 18, apparently you will love this movie, for the rest of us, just fire up it's a wonderful life and call it good.
none of the characters were deeper than a cardboard cutout... scratch that, i've seen cardboard cutouts with more depth.
if you are a girl under 18, apparently you will love this movie, for the rest of us, just fire up it's a wonderful life and call it good.
special
Kirpianuscus25 December 2017
It is my favorit Chistmas theme film. for many reasons who, year by year, are more and more. first - as puzzle of gray lives. the second - for forms of love. not the last - for moral lessons, many not real profound or credible but useful for easy demonstrations about the structure of relationships. sure, it could be defined as forced, naive or childish, as sketch of serious film or as film using the Christmas only as pretext. but it has all the virtues to be one of expected films by viewer . for cast, off course. for Paul Walken , especially. for angels. and for the encouraging message. and, maybe, for its special beauty. like an Renaissance angel. so, for me, a special, real special film.
Worthwhile Year Round Story
hupfons529 November 2006
Warning: Spoilers
Good acting by Paul Walker, Susan Sarandon, and Penelope Cruz and some enjoyable plot twists will entertain those looking for an enjoyable Christmas story in a modern-day setting.
The movie isn't likely to win any major awards, but it's better than most holiday dramas and many non-holiday films. I think young and more mature adults alike will enjoy NOEL. It's an excellent "date" flick.
Penelope Cruz will appeal to both men and women but for different reasons. I think children and young teen viewers should be "spared" her bulging cleavage and ultra-mini skirts. I was most "surprised" by Paul Walker's performance. Early in the film I thought his character would be 1-dimensional (i.e., an over-the-top jealous lover), but I think he gives a believable performance as the "macho hunk" who is a man of heart, soul, and some depth of character.
Robin Williams and Susan Sarandon redeem each other and contribute to an uplifting climatic twist to end the movie on a hopeful, redemptive note.
Definitely worth seeing.
The movie isn't likely to win any major awards, but it's better than most holiday dramas and many non-holiday films. I think young and more mature adults alike will enjoy NOEL. It's an excellent "date" flick.
Penelope Cruz will appeal to both men and women but for different reasons. I think children and young teen viewers should be "spared" her bulging cleavage and ultra-mini skirts. I was most "surprised" by Paul Walker's performance. Early in the film I thought his character would be 1-dimensional (i.e., an over-the-top jealous lover), but I think he gives a believable performance as the "macho hunk" who is a man of heart, soul, and some depth of character.
Robin Williams and Susan Sarandon redeem each other and contribute to an uplifting climatic twist to end the movie on a hopeful, redemptive note.
Definitely worth seeing.
Different kind of Christmas story
Jackbv1238 December 2018
No tree decorating, baking cookies or building snowmen. Instead this is a character study of several different people trying to make sense of life. (I counted 6, but maybe Charlie doesn't count.) They all cross paths, some more closely than others.
There are several more popular actors and all do at least a credible job. Susan Sarandon's story is perhaps the most interesting and she does it well.
The story wanders a bit, but I think intentionally. The TV replay I watched was chopped a little too much for commercials and so a couple of times the transitions were confusing.
There are several more popular actors and all do at least a credible job. Susan Sarandon's story is perhaps the most interesting and she does it well.
The story wanders a bit, but I think intentionally. The TV replay I watched was chopped a little too much for commercials and so a couple of times the transitions were confusing.
Good Tear-Jerker
NightGoddess24 November 2005
I was a bit distracted by some of the bad acting, but overall, I was happy I watched the entire movie. I loved the characters and "reality" of life and loneliness. Having a grandmother (now passed away) that was in a VERY SIMILAR situation to the woman in the hospital, it was very sad. I brought this movie to my mom's to watch, and she cried through the entire movie. She could relate to Susan Sarandon's character perfectly! I love exploring spirituality, so the areas in the movie that touched on that aspect were refreshing. Parts like that always bring a sense of hope about our own lives. Christmas movies are always so entertaining, as they portray a lot of what the holidays can REALLY be like in some families' homes. The chaos, the emotions, the old hidden resentments, etc. All in all, it was an enjoyable movie. LOVE Robin Williams, and Susan Sarandon. They both still look GREAT!!!
cheap, trashy rip-off
trpnallday11 November 2008
Warning: Spoilers
It became apparent to me right away that this was nothing more than a cheap rip-off trying to jump on the bandwagon after the success of "Love Actually" and perhaps covert some people to Christianity at the same time.
Nevertheless I stuck it out since the videostore has a no-returns policy.
The mood of this "Christmas" film is really dark and the various character's stories are also completely over-the-top. Who thinks up this kind of stuff? There is the cop who gets involved with this old freaky guy that thinks the cop is the reincarnation of his dead wife. There is a guy who for reasons unexplained feels he needs to crash a hospital Christmas party so he gets a guy to introduce him to the leader of some underground cult who happens to specialize in breaking people's hands. As if that isn't weird enough, what is the young badass guy who could be on a Abercrombie&Fitch bag doing throwing himself at the old lady? Surely there are plenty of women under 60 for him?? Then the same woman hallucinates seeing the spirit of a brain-dead priest who then in one night manages not only to convert her to Christianity but also convinces her to take her mother's doctor on a date! If you are insane and all the above makes perfect sense to you, then you will love this movie! For everyone else, stay far, far away.
Nevertheless I stuck it out since the videostore has a no-returns policy.
The mood of this "Christmas" film is really dark and the various character's stories are also completely over-the-top. Who thinks up this kind of stuff? There is the cop who gets involved with this old freaky guy that thinks the cop is the reincarnation of his dead wife. There is a guy who for reasons unexplained feels he needs to crash a hospital Christmas party so he gets a guy to introduce him to the leader of some underground cult who happens to specialize in breaking people's hands. As if that isn't weird enough, what is the young badass guy who could be on a Abercrombie&Fitch bag doing throwing himself at the old lady? Surely there are plenty of women under 60 for him?? Then the same woman hallucinates seeing the spirit of a brain-dead priest who then in one night manages not only to convert her to Christianity but also convinces her to take her mother's doctor on a date! If you are insane and all the above makes perfect sense to you, then you will love this movie! For everyone else, stay far, far away.
The Christmas spirit in dramatic form
tabuno27 January 2019
Noel excels in depicting the Christmas spirit in dramatic form. As a Christmas drama, Noel is not the typical romance comedy that is often promoted during the holidays and as such it faces a much more difficult climb in captivating and bringing good cheer to people who expect any Christmas movie to contribute to the holiday's sense of happiness and joyous tidings. The script is biting and for the most part imparts a dour, sad even bitter cold ambiance chilling the holiday spirits even more so than Marley from Dicken's A Christmas Carol. There are three storylines that unfold throughout the movie, one is a young lonely man who seeks solace in the only place he has experienced the Christmas spirit, a hospital, a second is a fiancée who is torn between staying or leaving her moody police officer, and finally a woman who cares for others, especially her infirmed hospitalized mother, and who face that realization that she herself has not found the happiness or Christmas spirit that keeps her alive.
Each storyline line is presented in dour, penetrating tones each difficult to watch during what is supposed to be an expectant holiday season of joy for movie goers. In many ways, this movie delves into the deeper regions of mental disorder as well as marital collapse and grief and trauma. From a therapeutic perspective and even a spiritual one, this movie offers a layman's version of mental health treatment something mostly avoided by holiday movies. By the end, this movie offers up a transformative message for many and depicts important soul-searching questions that many movie goers might ask themselves when it comes to personal isolation and despair. This brief holiday movie experience contains valuable insight and a Christmas message, especially the apparently uncredited performance of Robin Williams, in a sensitive and redeeming presentation.
Each storyline line is presented in dour, penetrating tones each difficult to watch during what is supposed to be an expectant holiday season of joy for movie goers. In many ways, this movie delves into the deeper regions of mental disorder as well as marital collapse and grief and trauma. From a therapeutic perspective and even a spiritual one, this movie offers a layman's version of mental health treatment something mostly avoided by holiday movies. By the end, this movie offers up a transformative message for many and depicts important soul-searching questions that many movie goers might ask themselves when it comes to personal isolation and despair. This brief holiday movie experience contains valuable insight and a Christmas message, especially the apparently uncredited performance of Robin Williams, in a sensitive and redeeming presentation.
A fair Christmas drama that tries too hard
I_Ailurophile5 December 2021
The drama is overbearing, and to a lesser extent, so is the artifice. 'Noel' rather quickly feels like a holiday rendition of fellow 2004 film 'Crash,' in which the lives of several characters facing their own individual difficulties collide under unlikely circumstances. Each tale could of itself be drawn out into a feature length film; smashing them all together feels like simultaneously draining each of their full potential, and overfilling the cup. This isn't to say that it's a bad movie, but it endeavors so mightily to be impactful and meaningful that as a result, impact and meaning is notably dampened.
Credit where it's due: 'Noel' is well made. There are a lot of very recognizable names and faces in the cast, and they inhabit their characters with great heart and nuance. Chazz Palminteri demonstrates a deft hand as a director. While distinctly overwrought, David Hubbard's screenplay is filled with ably written characters, superb scene writing, fine dialogue, and some fantastic ideas and story beats. There's no small amount of strength in this picture. Unfortunately, there's also just so much sentimentality that it feels forced and maudlin instead of natural and genuine.
Anyone who earnestly enjoys the contrivances of holiday-themed comedies or dramas - whether on the silver screen, or on the Hallmark or Lifetime channels - is sure to find this a perfectly satisfying viewing experience. For anyone else, it's a mixed bag. For what it's worth I think 'Noel' is very sincere. That candor simply fails to manifest, for the most part, on account of the overabundant tragedy, hopefulness, and redemption. I like this well enough - I don't regret watching it, not at all. However, I do think this is a fair example of the maxim that sometimes "less is more."
Worth 96 minutes of your time? You could do a lot worse.
Credit where it's due: 'Noel' is well made. There are a lot of very recognizable names and faces in the cast, and they inhabit their characters with great heart and nuance. Chazz Palminteri demonstrates a deft hand as a director. While distinctly overwrought, David Hubbard's screenplay is filled with ably written characters, superb scene writing, fine dialogue, and some fantastic ideas and story beats. There's no small amount of strength in this picture. Unfortunately, there's also just so much sentimentality that it feels forced and maudlin instead of natural and genuine.
Anyone who earnestly enjoys the contrivances of holiday-themed comedies or dramas - whether on the silver screen, or on the Hallmark or Lifetime channels - is sure to find this a perfectly satisfying viewing experience. For anyone else, it's a mixed bag. For what it's worth I think 'Noel' is very sincere. That candor simply fails to manifest, for the most part, on account of the overabundant tragedy, hopefulness, and redemption. I like this well enough - I don't regret watching it, not at all. However, I do think this is a fair example of the maxim that sometimes "less is more."
Worth 96 minutes of your time? You could do a lot worse.
prodding interconnect stories
SnoopyStyle2 October 2015
It's Christmas in NYC. Divorced publisher Rose Collins (Susan Sarandon) struggles to survive the loneliness of the holidays. Her mother is in hospice with Alzheimers. She goes on a date with the much younger Marco from the office. Mike (Paul Walker) is a cop who is battling jealousy over his girlfriend Nina (Penélope Cruz). Mike is stalked by kindly and possibly delusional waiter Artie Venzuela (Alan Arkin). Jules (Marcus Thomas) has a plan to hurt himself so that he can attend the Christmas party at the hospital to relive his best Christmas as a kid.
Screenwriter David Hubbard doesn't have much to his credit and Chazz Palminteri is not known as a director. They are able to gather some great actors but the various stories don't pull me in. Sarandon is somewhat interesting but I don't find the other stories that compelling. Paul Walker really bugged me. The movie moves very slowly. I feel a lot like Mike impatiently waiting for Artie's explanation. Strange or unlikely things keep happening that throws me for a loop. Loneliness at the holidays is an interesting theme but I'm not thrilled with this movie.
Screenwriter David Hubbard doesn't have much to his credit and Chazz Palminteri is not known as a director. They are able to gather some great actors but the various stories don't pull me in. Sarandon is somewhat interesting but I don't find the other stories that compelling. Paul Walker really bugged me. The movie moves very slowly. I feel a lot like Mike impatiently waiting for Artie's explanation. Strange or unlikely things keep happening that throws me for a loop. Loneliness at the holidays is an interesting theme but I'm not thrilled with this movie.
No critics, just film lovers please!
shultzl7 September 2005
Why try to be a film critic? I cannot understand why people can't just sit back and enjoy a very sweet film without picking out every imperfection. Noel is a movie with a lot of heart. Alan Arkin gives an excellent performance as well as Susan Sarandon. While others may not enjoy this movie because it depicts what the holidays are actually like for millions of people, I found it to represent the loss of connection we have all come to know to well. I think that the message is clear, that people need each other to live a life of substance. As individuals we are lost, but with friends, family and love we have hope. I hope the person that fell asleep watching this film did so next to a wife,husband or life partner and that they just didn't appreciate the film because they can't comprehend what it is like to be alone. I will watch this film every year with my family. It will remind us to be grateful for having each other. Thank you Chazz for taking the time to make this film.
A good afternoon movie
Ariella22-111 July 2007
Chazz Palmintari delivers a mostly well thought out plot with a great cast. The story within a story relationship familiarizes characters without their knowledge. Unexpected bits of steamy sexuality. (with a disappointing glimpse into Penelope Cruz's stiff,rhythm-less samba moves) He throws in some surreal experiences that break the stream of sentiments that sort of bombard you in the first half-hour. The feeling of Christmas is real since it was filmed in the actual winter season. I was impressed with the move to a "feeling" part by Paul Walker, I thought his character far from followed suit of the well-to-do thoughtless hunk/hero that he was beginning to be type cast as. Although there are some plot holes, I thought the overall idea behind it was verging on original and the kind of script that makes it a movie to enjoy with you mother.
Beautiful, touching, with good actors but forgettable, it's a good bet for a different Christmas movie.
filipemanuelneto5 January 2018
I decided to watch this movie on Christmas day afternoon with my family. I knew almost nothing about it but the title caught my eye... a movie about Christmas to watch on Christmas. Makes sense.
The script mixes the dreams and problems of three people: a middle-aged lady who dreams of her mother, Alzheimer's in a vegetative state, getting better enough to talk to her; a girl who dreams of solving her problems with her jealous fiance and, finally, this same fiance, who lives being pestered by a man who believes that he's the reincarnation of his deceased wife, of whom he didn't had time to apologize for a fight. Dreams, the yearnings of several people winding down on Christmas Eve... we've seen things like this in several movies before and this one doesn't bring anything new. What's interesting is to see so many familiar faces together in a movie that's not well known.
Penelope Cruz and Paul Walker gave life to the protagonists. She, of course, is a hot-tempered Latina and he's a man in love but jealous. Both are beautiful, played very well, and their chemistry worked in the romantic scenes. Susan Sarandon made a more complex character, full of deep psychological shadows and obvious difficulty in relating to people. In a way, she made this film deeper and emotive, prevented it from being dominated by the main couple. Alan Arkin and Robbin Williams made relatively brief appearances, but important for the script's unfolding. Of course, Williams was impeccable and Arkin made a lot of pain in his character, making us have some compassion for him.
Looking further, I understand the reason this movie never took off. If we exclude the star-cast and their good performance, we have virtually nothing here. It's just one of those movies we've watched and forget, so it will surely fall by the wayside... well, it was released in 2004, we're now starting 2018... looking back, does anyone remember this movie? I have my doubts. Still, if you're tired of watching always the same movies at Christmas ("Home Alone", "Sound of Music" or those eternal biblical epics released fifty years ago) and you're simply looking to surprise your family with something that none of them still saw, this movie might be a good bet for the Christmas holiday.
The script mixes the dreams and problems of three people: a middle-aged lady who dreams of her mother, Alzheimer's in a vegetative state, getting better enough to talk to her; a girl who dreams of solving her problems with her jealous fiance and, finally, this same fiance, who lives being pestered by a man who believes that he's the reincarnation of his deceased wife, of whom he didn't had time to apologize for a fight. Dreams, the yearnings of several people winding down on Christmas Eve... we've seen things like this in several movies before and this one doesn't bring anything new. What's interesting is to see so many familiar faces together in a movie that's not well known.
Penelope Cruz and Paul Walker gave life to the protagonists. She, of course, is a hot-tempered Latina and he's a man in love but jealous. Both are beautiful, played very well, and their chemistry worked in the romantic scenes. Susan Sarandon made a more complex character, full of deep psychological shadows and obvious difficulty in relating to people. In a way, she made this film deeper and emotive, prevented it from being dominated by the main couple. Alan Arkin and Robbin Williams made relatively brief appearances, but important for the script's unfolding. Of course, Williams was impeccable and Arkin made a lot of pain in his character, making us have some compassion for him.
Looking further, I understand the reason this movie never took off. If we exclude the star-cast and their good performance, we have virtually nothing here. It's just one of those movies we've watched and forget, so it will surely fall by the wayside... well, it was released in 2004, we're now starting 2018... looking back, does anyone remember this movie? I have my doubts. Still, if you're tired of watching always the same movies at Christmas ("Home Alone", "Sound of Music" or those eternal biblical epics released fifty years ago) and you're simply looking to surprise your family with something that none of them still saw, this movie might be a good bet for the Christmas holiday.
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