Christmas at Maxwells

Plot

Suzie Austin (Jack Hourigan) has cancer and her most recent prognosis is unfavorable. Fearing that this may be their last Christmas together, husband Andrew Austin (Andrew May) takes Suzie and their two children, Chris (Charlie May) and Mary (Julia May) to the family's summer home on Lake Erie to celebrate the holiday. There they meet Gus (Angus May). Andrew comes to terms with his past as the family deals with his wife's failing health.

Background

The film is based upon Laufer's real-life experiences and was shot on locations in Ohio. Laufer's daughter, Tiffany Laufer, an American Film Institute Alumna, served as cinematographer and co-producer. An advance screening was held on November 28, 2006 with all ticket proceeds going to the American Cancer Society. The film had its official theatrical release on December 1, 2006, and its television debut on Christmas Day.

Partial cast

Reception

Belinda Elliott of CBN wrote that even with its low budget, the film was "beautifully photographed with rich warming images of Christmas", but cautioned that themes of illness and death might be too heavy for young children. She summarized that the film was a "heartwarming holiday tale that lovingly illustrates the power of faith and the fact that miracles can and do still happen." East Valley Living reports that the film had received an award from the Dove Foundation. In 2010 TBN Trinity Broadcasting Network picked up the movie for a worldwide TV release.