Northpole

Tiffani Thiessen stars as Chelsea, a single mom reporter whose ‘tween son Kevin (Max Charles) has a tough time adjusting to a family move in this Hallmark Channel-aired holiday tale. While the acerbic and cynical Chelsea tries to get to the bottom of stories involving a shady planning commission and a cancelled town tree lighting, Kevin winds up making pals with peer-aged clumsy real-elf Clementine (Bailee Madison), who enlists the boy's help in keeping the cycle of holiday happiness going (magic snowflakes and the Northern Lights are involved). Also on hand to add some spice to Chelsea's cider is Kevin's amiable teacher (Josh Hopkins), who offers a lighter approach compared to her skeptical outlook—especially concerning Kevin's magical “mission.” Featuring cute lines from the affable Clementine (“SnowMG!”) and others (“I see the ornament doesn't fall far from the tree!”), this festive family tale—with Robert Wagner and Jill St. John as the Clauses—is recommended. Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood)