Reviewed By Jason LockardDolly Parton is a legend. She has done it all, music, movies, tv, and owner of Theme park Dollywood. She made her theatrical film debut as Doralee Rhodes in 9 to 5. She has appeared in twelve theatrically released films and has made over 400 appearances on television.
In 1996 she would star in a made-for-tv movie directed by Michael Switzer, best known for directing episodes of classic TV shows such as M*A*S*H, Hill Street Blues, Quantum Leap, Fame (writer for one episode) and NYPD Blue. The Holiday movie special was entitled, Unlikely Angel.
Well now after being out of print for a while, Dolly Parton's film makes it's a triumphant return to home video and digital all thanks to Mill Creek Entertainment.
The film follows the 'life' of aspiring for greatness, self-centered barroom singer Ruby Diamond (Parton). When she dies in a car accident and meets St. Peter (Roddy McDowall) at the gates of heaven. There Peter informs her that she must return to Earth to perform a selfless deed in order to gain admittance to the celestial home. So she returns to Earth disguised herself as a nanny. Her mission is to bring the Bartilson family one the brinks of collapse, together again.
Unlikely Angel is a sweet as sugar Christmas tale that will put the hardest cynic in the holiday spirit. Dolly is at her best in this role. And Roddy McDowall is a perfect St. Peter. Their banter really is the highlight of this film. The film also featuring two original songs by Dolly Parton entitled "Unlikely Angel" & "WhatchaTryin' To Do To Me?“
The film is presented in its original full-screen format in 1.33:1 aspect ratio. Thankfully there is no stretch of the screen which is becoming a popular thing to make films and TV originally made for full screen stretch to fit the HD televisions. The DVD transfer is beautiful. The dark colors of the smokey bars are moody and the bright colors of Heaven and Christmas time pop showing a real contrast of the two lives of Ruby.
I am so thankful that Mill Creek Entertainment has given this film a chance to shine on home video again. It really does deserve a new generation to see this Christmas classic. Yes I do consider it a classic.
So if you are a fan of good dramatic holiday films or just a fan of Dolly this is an absolute must add to your collection, Head over to MillCreekEnt.com or Amazon.com and get your copy today.
Offensive Material: Nothing
Audience: Families
Genre: Comedy, Drama
Length: 1 Hour 32 Minutes
DVD Value Rating: A
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