The performances transcend the film's tropes, grounding it in characters that feel more complete than this subgenre often produces.

Although I seem to have had higher expectations than I thought, the movie is super entertaining.

The storyline feels a little thin and moth-eaten in parts but this sequel is plenty of fun.

A terrific literary drama and character piece that shows how the process of creating art can be seen differently by those doing it and those looking at it from the outside.

The Melancholy Fantastic is a pleasure to watch. The cinematography is beautiful and holds your interest, even during the few moments when the pace of the movie slows down. The plot is not obvious and requires full attention to understand its subtleties, but the suspense and images are enough to carry you through it, even if you are not in the mood to "think" it. The music is great. The film features great images of New England in winter. I've seen many higher-budget Christmas movies that I didn't enjoy nearly as much. It is a great movie to watch by the fire with friends when all your Christmas shopping is finally done. Don't forget the popcorn. Enjoy!