Cheery drama from Newton-John
HOLLYWOOD - Singer Olivia Newton-John makes her dramatic TV debut in “A Mom for Christmas” (9 p.m., NBC), a new holiday movie from Walt Disney Productions.
The 1987 film “Mannequin” would seem to be the inspiration for this fantasy about an 11-year-old girl (Juliet Sorcey) whose wish “a mom to be with, to shop with, do all the holiday things like other kids” - is granted by a department-store window dresser (Doris Roberts) with magical powers.
Fifteen days before Christmas, a mannequin comes to life, knocks on their door and identifies herself as Amy (Newton-John), the new housekeeper. The child’s dad (Doug Sheehan) is stunned but accepting. The inevitable crisis arises when, at midnight on Christmas Eve, it’s time for Amy to return to the store and give up her humanity.
Director George Miller (“The Man From Snowy River”) is competent, but he’s no Frank Capra. Sentimental and predictable, “A Mom for Christmas” benefits primarily from Newton-John’s charm and a touch of the Disney magic in its special effects. The actress-singer also performs two new Christmas songs, written (like the rest of the score) by her long time producer, John Farrar.
By Jon Burlingame, United Features
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