inkblot11 Review of The National Tree

The National Tree (2009 TV Movie)

You won't be barking up the wrong "tree" to view this one, haha, its quite lovely

[8/10 · 6 October 2010]

Corey (Andrew McCarthy) and his teenage son, Rock (Evan Williams) live in rustic Oregon country. A widower for a long time, Corey once planted a tree for his day-old son that has now grown quite large. Unknown to the father, Rock entered the tree into a contest to be chosen as the official National Tree for the approaching holiday season. He wins! Rock is appropriately excited, especially since he has a blog site to spread the good news to his cyber friends. But, Corey initially is reluctant. Only after the lady in charge, Faith, assures him that the tree will be transported "live", not cut down, does he relent. But, Corey insists on driving the huge truck that will take the tree cross-country. Rock will ride shotgun and is looking forward to stopping at his grandmother's in the Dakotas and at the house of a good looking Internet gal pal in Wyoming. The trip turns dangerous quickly, when father and son run into a forest fire. But, after making it through that hazard, they land in Caspar, where Rock is thrilled to meet Katie. So happy is the young couple that they go against Corey's wishes and sneak Katie into the truck's hold for the journey. Will they make it all the way to D.C. and will Corey get angry when he discovers the stowaway? Also, could strong-and-silent Corey actually have eyes for Faith, despite her upcoming nuptials? This is quite a lovely film for the holidays, with plenty of romance and adventure for most family members. McCarthy has a nice turn as the somewhat grouchy and stoic father while Williams is wonderful as the talented son. All of the other cast members do a fine job as well. The cross country trip is a visual treat while the costumes and other production values are well above average. All in all, you won't be barking up the wrong tree if you seek out this film to share with your family. It is another fine choice for holiday viewing that will please most everyone who plops down for a showing.