Some people consider Christmas the most wonderful time of year while others view it as the most stressful time when their expectations never measure up to their dreams. A new Christian movie, Christmas at the Cabin, set in the Colorado Rockies, brings laughter and drama focused on surprising and unexpected complications and has many spiritual lessons to teach.

Christmas at the Cabin, set in the Colorado Rockies, brings laughter and drama focused on surprising and unexpected complications and has many spiritual lessons to teach.

Michelle, a chef, and her husband, Josh planned their perfect Christmas getaway in a cabin in the woods where she can de-stress. But the dream starts to fizzle as they crash into a snowbank with Michelle’s sister, a last-minute addition, in the car’s backseat. The discovery of another unexpected guest scares the trio and then brings Michelle’s stress to a breaking point. Check out humorous scenes by viewing the trailer. Tension builds between Michelle and Guy, an uninvited guest whom she mistakes for an intruder and promptly pepper sprays. Turns out, he’s her husband’s old college buddy who is not a believer, which doesn’t add to the holiday spirit. How many times have we experienced something unexpected during the holidays and been frustrated or exasperated?

As Michelle tries to do things perfectly on her own, she slips, sprains her ankle, and decorates the floor. She retreats to bed and later, after an outburst, to the frigid cold to try and let go of her anger. She vents her frustrations to God and steps into another calamity. When we experience difficulty in life, we can take our concerns to God! 1 Peter 5:7 advises us “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (NIV)

The other characters in the movie face struggle that echo authentic, real-life challenges. Josh, the self-appointed peacemaker, wants everyone to get along but his efforts usually end in friendly fire. Poppy, an introvert who feels she falls short of perfection, is trying to make better choices all on her own but is starting to realize wishing and good intentions are not part of a successful manual for life’s chaos. Guy, trying to be the walking punchline and encyclopedia, is avoiding work and rent. After a career crash and eviction he might be ready to trade jokes for a fresh start. Much like our own families and friends, whom we spend the holidays with, the characters have individual struggles and imperfections they bring to the party. 

The film shows that we need to seek God through prayer and not try to create a perfect Christmas on our own. In letting go of our dreams of perfection, we can have an amazing Christmas.

The film shows that we need to seek God through prayer and not try to create a perfect Christmas on our own. In letting go of our dreams of perfection, we can have an amazing Christmas. We can be thankful with whoever we are with amid the dynamics of all the personalities and personal struggles. The movie’s about choosing kindness and extending grace. The winter storm reflects the storms in life and the deep freeze reflects the coldness between two of the characters. The metaphor helps viewers consider their own reactions and challenges of the season. As John Stewart, the producer, says “In storms, Jesus is revealed.” Isaiah tells us “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.” Isaiah 43:2

Your struggles this year may be different or similar to ones faced in past years. Consider how to cope this year.

• Prepare ahead as much as possible.
• Choose what you want done most-lights, tree, nativity set, food?
• Pray for a calm spirit to enjoy the season.
• Pray before any gatherings of family and friends.
• If emotions heighten, take a break, sing carols or pray, to help let go of the stress.
• Understand the various personalities from the talkative party people and the ones who want to take charge, to the quieter individuals who prefer to listen than talk.
• Encourage and pray for people who may know about God but don’t believe in Jesus.
• If you’ve faced loss of a loved one, include time to be thankful for the individual and to share memories.
• If you’ve struggled with failure, money, or other woes, consider new choices for the New Year and trust God has plans for you.
• Know that weather and other circumstances are unpredictable but God knows what will happen. He’ll be with you.

Christmas at the Cabin depicts how life and emotions can grow increasingly intense until you choose to refocus on what really matters. Take a moment to consider transforming your expectations and focus on the real meaning of Christmas.

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ABOUT THE MOVIE

This is the first original movie produced by The Faith Channel. Originally a web development company for churches it evolved into a streaming service and then added production to create great Christian films. Since they are ad funded, they had the money to launch movies. After starting  this production they branched out to also become distributors. Their streamer is free. and they distribute worldwide, handling about seven million worth of titles currently.

The film is directed by Tory Hunter who also directed The Christmas Letter with actors Chevy Chase and Brian Doyle-Murray. Actor Todd Terry, lead actor in Vindication, and many other parts in film and television, portrays the cowboy. Unexpected filming problems included moving huge amounts of snow in early spring to shoot a scene just the day before a blizzard dropped snow everywhere it had been needed. It was also a reminder that life doesn’t always follow the plan. The theatrical release will be November 14, and will be available in streaming for home entertainment should be available for Thanksgiving.

CHECK OUT THE TRAILER | Find where to see Christmas at the Cabin!