When you tune into a Hallmark movie, especially a holiday one, you have to know what you're in for. That said, Christmas Homecoming had a bit of a different feel to it, due to the very real military subject matter.
Two years ago, Amanda lost her husband while he was serving overseas. While she happily stands by her sister and other military wives in the town and works for the town's military museum, she struggles to move on and has lost the Christmas spirit she once felt. Enter Jim, a military Sergeant who is recovering from an injury and rents a room from Amanda. While Jim helps Amanda with a fundraiser to save the museum and regain her holiday spirit, she helps him with the guilt and responsibility he is feeling for a few of his fallen comrades.
Some would have cast younger actors, but military members and widows come in all ages and Benz and Shanks are believable in their roles, particularly in a few very moving scenes. They definitely had a sweet chemistry that shows both in the movie and BTS footage.
In the end, this is still a Hallmark movie so the end results are a bit rushed and predictable. I also would have liked more backstory on Jim. But rarely has a Hallmark movie been so moving without being overly sweet and saccharine. Definitely will watch this one every holiday season.