A Castle for Christmas
Movie Trailer
Release Date
November 26, 2021
Genre
Romantic Comedy, Holiday
Cast & Crew
- Brooke Shields as Sophie Brown
- Cary Elwes as Myles, Duke of Dunbar
- Lee Ross as Thomas
- Andi Osho as Maisie
- Tina Gray as Helen
- Eilidh Loan as Rhona
- Stephen Oswald as Angus
Director
Mary Lambert
Other Movies Director is Known For
- Pet Sematary (1989)
- The In Crowd (2000)
- Urban Legends: Bloody Mary (2005)
Producer
Brad Krevoy
Steven R. McGlothen
Writer
Kim Beyer-Johnson
Neal H. Dobrofsky
Tippi Dobrofsky
Budget
N/A (Netflix Original)
Production Company
MPCA
Netflix
Running Time
98 minutes
Languages
English
Maturity Rating
TV-PG
Content Advisory
- Mild language
- Light romantic themes
Movie Story
“A Castle for Christmas” is a charming romantic comedy set against the picturesque backdrop of the Scottish Highlands, perfect for the holiday season. The film follows Sophie Brown (Brooke Shields), a successful American author who is reeling from the backlash of her latest novel, which was not well received by her fans. Looking for a fresh start and a break from the public eye, Sophie decides to escape to Scotland, a country she has always admired.
While in Scotland, Sophie visits the quaint village of Dunbar and becomes enchanted with Dun Dunbar Castle, a historic and somewhat run-down estate. On a whim, she decides to buy the castle, envisioning it as the perfect place to find inspiration and begin a new chapter in her life. However, Sophie soon discovers that the castle comes with more than she bargained for—specifically, its stubborn and gruff owner, Myles, the Duke of Dunbar (Cary Elwes).
Myles is reluctant to sell the castle to an outsider, especially an American, and agrees to the sale on one condition: that Sophie must live in the castle with him for a trial period before the purchase is finalized. What follows is a series of humorous and heartwarming encounters as the two clash over the castle’s future. Sophie, with her optimism and determination, gradually begins to break down Myles’s grumpy exterior, while Myles, with his old-fashioned ways and hidden vulnerabilities, challenges Sophie to look beyond her plans and consider the importance of tradition and community.
As the two spend more time together, sparks fly, and they begin to realize that they may have more in common than they initially thought. “A Castle for Christmas” is a feel-good holiday movie that combines romance, humor, and the cozy charm of a small Scottish village. The film explores themes of finding love in unexpected places, embracing new beginnings, and the magic of the holiday season.
Special Effects
The film uses picturesque cinematography to capture the stunning landscapes of Scotland, with Dun Dunbar Castle and the surrounding village providing a visually appealing and festive setting. The emphasis is on creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, with minimal special effects required.
Box Office Performance
As a Netflix original, “A Castle for Christmas” was released directly on the streaming platform. It quickly became a popular choice for holiday viewing, appealing to audiences with its lighthearted romance and festive spirit.
Filming Locations
- Edinburgh, Scotland
- Dalmeny House, South Queensferry, Scotland
Notable Quotes
- “Sometimes the best stories are the ones that surprise you.” – Sophie Brown
- “A castle is more than just stone and mortar; it’s history, tradition, and heart.” – Myles, Duke of Dunbar
- “Love has a way of finding us, even when we’re not looking for it.” – Sophie Brown
Behind-the-Scenes
- The film was shot on location in Scotland, with Dalmeny House standing in for the fictional Dun Dunbar Castle. The choice of location adds authenticity and charm to the story.
- Brooke Shields and Cary Elwes, both seasoned actors, bring chemistry and a playful dynamic to their roles, making their on-screen relationship believable and engaging.
Awards
- None
Final Verdict
“A Castle for Christmas” is a delightful holiday rom-com that delivers exactly what fans of the genre expect: a charming romance, a picturesque setting, and a heartwarming story. Brooke Shields and Cary Elwes shine in their roles, bringing humor and warmth to the film. It’s a perfect choice for viewers looking to get into the holiday spirit with a cozy, feel-good movie.
IMDb Rating
5.5/10