In this sequel, Theo continues to miss connecting with his girlfriend, Kim, as he attempts to propose at Christmas.
Starring: Shae Robins and Casey Elliott
Image: Great American Media
My Movie Grade: A
The Timing Is Better in the Sequel
Destined at Christmas is a fan favorite from 2022, and since its release, fans have been clamoring for a sequel.
Great American Family is very responsive to feedback, which is one reason why Destined 2: Christmas Once More is in the 2023 holiday lineup.
In the first movie, Kim and Theo meet while shopping on Black Friday, but they lose each other and must use the few clues they have to try to reconnect. Their lives nearly intersect several times during the movie, but the timing is off just enough that they keep missing each other. After a while, this becomes tedious, over-exaggerated, and highly unlikely.
The timing in the sequel is much better. Theo plans to propose, but the opportune moment keeps eluding him. First, Kim announces big news from work, and Theo doesn't want to overshadow her moment. The next time he attempts to propose, Kim is exhausted from babysitting and falls asleep. Losing the engagement ring throws a monkey wrench into his third shot. Kim isn't home when he tries a fourth time. Finally, he's separated from her on the Christmas train ride and misses his opportunity yet again.
Despite all of these failed attempts, the viewer doesn't feel frustrated because the delays are understandable and not herniated like they were in the first movie.
Fans have gotten so attached to Theo and Kim that they are already asking for a third installment that focuses on the wedding and a fourth movie that celebrates the Halls having children.
Will Great American Family continue Theo's and Kim's story in 2024? We'll have to wait and see. Destined 3: A Christmas Wedding sounds like a good idea to me. They could keep "missing each other" on the wedding planning. A Destined 4 movie could revolve around Kim not finding the right time to tell Theo she's pregnant. This could work!
The Countdown to Christmas Calendar Is Back!
Everyone loves the Countdown to Christmas calendar featured in Destined at Christmas and its sequel. In 2022, Amazon sold out after viewers found the item online and snatched them all!
As Kim unpacks Christmas decorations, she is delighted to find the calendar again.
Fans can't help but point out, however, that the calendar counts UP to the 25th and not DOWN to one day before Christmas.
This wall calendar is selling rapidly again in 2023. If you haven't already ordered yours, you better grab one before they are gone. You can find it here:
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So Much to Love About Destined 2: Christmas Once More
Did you know that Theo's daughter, Ashley, is Casey Elliott's real-life daughter, Eve? This precocious 10-year-old is very entertaining. Her facial expressions, mature comments, and comedic antics are delivered perfectly and land well.
One of my favorite scenes is the one when Ashley is sent to bed and told to say her prayers. She ends her prayer with, "In Jesus' name, amen." What a statement of faith! Most networks avoid any reference to Jesus. In rare cases, "God" might be mentioned, but in such a generic way that it could represent any religion. I LOVE that Great American Family is bold enough to speak the Name that is above every name!
Theo and Ashley have an annual tradition--the 12 Days of Christmas--where they anonymously gift someone a special gift for 12 straight days. It's a wonderful reminder that it's better to give than to receive.
What's Next for Shae Robins and Casey Elliott?
According to IMDb, a new movie titled Passport to Love starring Shae Robins is in post-production, and it is written by Brittany Wiscombe--the same writer credited for both Destined movies. There is no indication yet regarding what network will air Passport to Love, but maybe Great American Family will acquire the rights to it.
Shae Robins has been married since 2013 to musician Brad Robins from Gentri. The two have a daughter, Sadie Jane, who was born in June 2021.
As for Casey Elliott, no upcoming movies are listed for him, but maybe he's too busy. He is currently touring with the gentlemen trio group, Gentri, along with Robins' husband. Those who are familiar with his vocal talents are suggesting that Great American Family produce a movie in which Elliott's character sings.
Gentri recently released a Christmas album called Season of Light.
Let Great American Family Know What You Think!
Great American Family wants to hear from you! Be sure to share your review of Destined 2: Christmas Once More on their website here. You can also let them know if you'd like to see more future movies about Theo and Kim.
If you haven't had the opportunity to watch Destined 2, you can check out the trailer below.
#GreatAmericanChristmas #Destined2ChristmasOnceMoreReview
I aasked if there could be a 3rd movie in my review to the network as well! :) -Maria
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