Based on the Max Lucardo novel, The Christmas Candle is an inspirational period drama. The story follows a faithless priest who’s beliefs are challenged when he accepts a position in a village that has a peculiar tradition of gifting a magic candle at Christmas that’s been blessed by an angel and has the power to answer prayer. A number of changes have been made from the book to focus more on the priest and his relationship to several parishioners. The acting’s a little weak, but is able to deliver some touching and dramatic moments. And the costumes and sets do a good job at creating an authentic look and feel for 19th century England. The Christmas Candle isn’t without its problems, but overall is a compelling film about faith.

You know what, pretty good! Weird, but holds some charm. 'The Christmas Candle' is rather religious-y, though I think it strikes a fine balance for the majority... until they deep dive into it with the ending admittedly, but as a full-blown atheist I can let it pass as it's a conclusion that stills works in film terms to be fair. The cast are a nicely chosen bunch. Hans Matheson stands out most in the lead role, while James Cosmo supports ably - as do Lesley Manville, Sylvester McCoy and Samantha Barks. Interesting to see Susan Boyle appear in her acting debut, she's clearly not an actress though her performance is alright - a likeable onscreen presence, at worst.