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Romantic drama

Northern Lights of Christmas (2018): Cast & Ratings

Northern Lights of Christmas (2018) movie poster

Northern Lights of Christmas is a 2018 romantic drama directed by Jonathan Wright, starring Ashley Williams as Zoey Hathaway, Ron Lea and Alix Sideris. It runs 1 hour 24 minutes. Its Echo Score is 70/100.

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Northern Lights of Christmas (2018) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 24m (84 min)
Director
Jonathan Wright
Genres
Romance , Drama
Original language
English
After the credits
No No extra scene
The story

What Is Northern Lights of Christmas About?

The premise of Northern Lights of Christmas without spoilers.

Zoey Hathaway dedicated years to achieving her dream of becoming a pilot, but her plans change when she unexpectedly inherits a reindeer farm and meets Alec Wynn, the attractive ranch hand. Overwhelmed with Christmas responsibilities and reindeer care, Zoey finds her life unexpectedly complicated. Alec, who has faced skepticism in the past, finds encouragement in Zoey's trust, and the pair begin to develop feelings for each other amidst the festive season. Can they discover happiness in such an unusual situation?

Northern Lights of Christmas Themes & Keywords

· 25 tags
  • christmas
  • christmas romance
  • female airplane pilot
  • seattle washington
  • parents daughter relationship
  • grandfather granddaughter relationship
  • aurora alaska
  • ranch
  • inheritance
  • reindeer
  • caretaker
  • festival
+13 more
  • motorcycle
  • reference to charter airplane
  • photography
  • selling property
  • barn dance
  • first airplane flight
  • mail run
  • aurora borealis
  • road blocked by fallen tree
  • interrupted kiss
  • transaction declined
  • kiss
  • first airplane ride
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Cast & crew

Northern Lights of Christmas Cast & Characters

Ashley Williams leads the cast as Zoey Hathaway, with Ron Lea as Doyle Hathaway and Alix Sideris as Joan Hathaway. Directed by Jonathan Wright; 28 actors are credited in all.

Also Starring in Northern Lights of Christmas

· 24 more
Show all 28 cast members
From the director

More from Jonathan Wright

More films directed by Jonathan Wright, best-rated first: Awakening the Zodiac, True Justice: Family Ties, A Not So Royal Christmas and Family History Mysteries: Buried Past.

Full filmography
Ratings

Northern Lights of Christmas Reviews & Ratings

Our Echo Score gives it 70/100, strongest in sensory experience (80) and weakest in rewatch factor (55).

70 /100

Northern Lights of Christmas Echo Score Breakdown

Northern Lights of Christmas delivers a familiar Hallmark romance anchored by an upbeat lead performance and scenic Alaskan visuals. Reviewers note the film’s dependable community charm, attractive scenery, and the lead’s energetic presence, while also highlighting predictable plot twists and occasional over‑acting that diminish depth. The net effect is a comfortably enjoyable holiday entry that satisfies genre expectations without breaking new ground.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

  • Art & Craft 78

    In terms of visual craftsmanship, the film benefits from striking Alaskan landscapes and aurora borealis sequences that reinforce its seasonal atmosphere. Critics commend the snowy backdrops and production design for creating an inviting setting, though a few note unrealistic lighting conditions. Overall, the art direction supports the story effectively and earns a solid rating.

  • Character & Emotion 70

    Character work centers on a charismatic lead whose warmth and optimism are repeatedly praised, while supporting performances are described as likable and restrained. Several reviewers, however, point out a lack of chemistry between the protagonists and instances of over‑acting that lessen emotional nuance. The mixed feedback results in a moderately positive character assessment.

  • Story & Flow 65

    The storyline follows a conventional Hallmark formula of hometown return, community rally, and romance, which many find comfortably familiar. Critics appreciate the feel‑good premise but criticize its predictability and formulaic pacing. While the narrative engages genre fans, its limited originality tempers the overall score.

  • Sensory Experience 80

    Sensory experience is anchored by vivid cinematography that showcases Alaskan terrain and the Northern Lights, creating a cohesive visual style. Reviewers note the film’s pleasant soundtrack and sound design as adequate, without drawing attention to any flaws. The strong visual cohesion elevates the sensory rating.

  • Rewatch Factor 55

    Rewatch potential is divided; some viewers express willingness to see the lead actress again, while others doubt they would return to the film itself. Predictable plot elements and occasional over‑acting reduce long‑term appeal, though the seasonal setting may invite occasional holiday viewings. Consequently, the rewatch factor receives a modest score.

Videos

Northern Lights of Christmas Trailers & Videos

The trailer of Northern Lights of Christmas.

Preview - Northern Lights of Christmas - Hallmark Movies & Mysteries
Cars

Cars in Northern Lights of Christmas

9 cars on screen, including the 2016 GMC Yukon XL and the Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy.

All 9 cars
  • 2016 GMC Yukon XL in Northern Lights of Christmas 2016 GMC Yukon XL Important role
  • Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy in Northern Lights of Christmas Harley-Davidson FLSTF Fat Boy Important role
  • Jeep TJ in Northern Lights of Christmas Jeep TJ Important role
  • 2004 Ford Crown Victoria in Northern Lights of Christmas 2004 Ford Crown Victoria Minor role
Details

Northern Lights of Christmas Also Known As

10 alternative titles, including “Hviezda na vianočnom nebi” and “Mon Noël en Alaska”.

Also known as
  • Hviezda na vianočnom nebi
  • Mon Noël en Alaska
  • Luces del Norte de Navidad
  • Im Norden strahlt der Weihnachtsstern
  • Hvězda na vánočním nebi
  • Коледно сияние
  • Ritorno ad Aurora: Un Natale speciale
  • Luminile nordice ale Crăciunului
  • Luzes de Natal no Norte
  • Északi fény karácsonykor

Seen Northern Lights of Christmas?

FAQ

Northern Lights of Christmas FAQ: Cast & Runtime

Runtime, release date, director, cast and post-credit scenes of Northern Lights of Christmas, each answered in a sentence.

How long is Northern Lights of Christmas?

Northern Lights of Christmas runs 1 hour 24 minutes (84 minutes).

When was Northern Lights of Christmas released?

Northern Lights of Christmas was released on December 15, 2018.

Who directed Northern Lights of Christmas?

Northern Lights of Christmas was directed by Jonathan Wright.

More films by Jonathan Wright

Who is in the cast of Northern Lights of Christmas?

Northern Lights of Christmas stars Ashley Williams as Zoey Hathaway, Ron Lea as Doyle Hathaway and Alix Sideris as Joan Hathaway, among 28 credited actors.

Does Northern Lights of Christmas have a post-credit scene?

No. Northern Lights of Christmas has no extra scene during or after the credits.

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