The usually delightful Doris Roberts, who managed to make the prequel to this Hall Channel TV movie good, comes back for another turn as Mrs. Miracle, who may or may not be a heavenly messenger sent to bring holiday cheer to the occupants of this movie. Unfortunately, she seems unable to do as much for any potential viewers. Lauren Holly, as a fashion designer who seems totally out of touch with reality, attempts a comedy turn, but director Michael Scott seems to be unaware of how to modulate his actors' performances and she comes off as creepy and obnoxious. Everyone seems to spend a lot of time chuckling uncomfortably, except for Miss Holly.

The plot centers around ingénue Jewel Staite, who seems to trying to make something real out of her poorly written role, her nephew, who is in her charge in Brooklyn while his widowed father is serving in the Mideast, and and the rocky start of a romance that Mrs. Miracle fosters between her and Eric Johnson, the manager of a department store owned and operated by his father. These last two have issues -- Tom Butler as the father has some nice moments, but they are few and loused up by the fact that he must have a Change of Heart in time for a happy ending. Miss Staite and Mr. Johnson seem capable, but it's hard to tell.

Besides the by-the-numbers plotting, and the magic offered to us -- and isn't it heartwarming to know that people can't solve their problems without magic? -- we have the issue that the plot points are all talked over, never shown. Why bother to have a picture tube on your set at all if you're never going to show us plot points being resolved? Some of these Hallmark Christmas movies have been pretty good, but this one is bottom of the barrel. A pity for some pretty talented performers.