One Christmas Eve

A dog causes mass chaos in this welcomed non-romance from Hallmark. When well-intentioned Cesar (Carlos Gomez, that guy from nearly a hundred things) leaves an abandoned dog on the doorstep of what appears to be a stable and loving family, then slips and injures himself trying to make an anonymous getaway, it sets forth an unlikely chain of events that includes more injuries, property destruction and even a robbery at gunpoint. Veteran Anne Heche is the house occupant whose attempts to aid Cesar drag her into the string of disasters, with her kids and a hospital employee in tow. Despite the constant jumping from the frying pan into repeated fires (at one point literally), this movie is genuinely funny, occasionally bordering on black comedy (or dramedy), something very rare for Hallmark cheddar. Say what you want about Heche herself, but she's a still a good actress and the rest of the cast is strong as well. The film also deals with divorce, which makes for a more interesting subplot than an obligatory romance, which is jettisoned in favor of family bonding and the kindness of strangers. It may be a little heavy at times, but still entertains. Nausea factor low. Christmas factor moderate, not bursting with spirit but good enough. MSG approved.