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This is a New York drama with such a relaxed pace that it required a decade to arrive on the UK’s cinema screens. Initially unveiled in the US in 2015, it’s a micro-budget first feature from first-time director Charles Poekel, taking place largely on a 24-hour pop-up Christmas tree stall. Poekel’s style remains decidedly authentic-indie and naturalistic to become slushy or sentimental about Christmas; through his lens Christmas tree lights blink like police lights. But with its subtle approach, he pitches his film perfectly for a modest dose of festive warmth.

The Jaded Seller Amid the Brooklyn Cold

Kentucker Audley stars as Noel (someone had in the film to comment on his name for the connection to be made). Noel is back for his fifth year peddling Christmas trees in Brooklyn, working outdoors in the freezing cold and sleeping in a not-much-warmer caravan stationed beside the trees. Several patrons ask about the girl working with him last year. But this year Noel is alone, heartbroken and working the night shift.

There’s a documentary feel to a lot of the scenes, with customers asking idle and peculiar questions. One woman wants the same Christmas tree as the Obamas (the story is set in 2014). Noel looks numb with cold physically and emotionally; he’s exhausted and disenchanted, though Audley’s understated acting clearly indicates that he wasn’t always like this.

Quiet Encounters and Glimmers of Connection

In truth, not much happens. Noel rescues a woman, Lydia (Hannah Gross), who has collapsed drunk on a bench. She pops up again later in some genuinely moving scenes as Noel drives around New York, delivering trees – and these moments could spark a small glimmer of good cheer even in the most cynical viewer. Poekel has not directed a feature since this, which is a shame – you can’t beat it for authenticity and fluidity, and it’s filmed on gorgeously textured 16mm film.

A picture of understated appeal and authentic mood, portraying the loneliness and brief warmth of the season.

Christmas, Again opens in UK cinemas from 12 December.