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The is a New York drama so laidback that it has taken a decade to reach the UK’s cinema screens. Initially unveiled in the US in 2015, it’s an ultra-low-budget debut from first-time director Charles Poekel, set almost entirely 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; in his view Christmas tree lights flash like police lights. But in its own low-key way, he positions the movie perfectly for a modest dose of festive warmth.

A Jaded Seller in the Brooklyn Cold

Kentucker Audley portrays Noel (someone had in the film to comment on his name before I twigged). Noel returns for his fifth year peddling Christmas trees in Brooklyn, working outdoors in the freezing cold and resting in a not-much-warmer caravan parked next to the trees. A few customers ask about the girl assisting him last year. But this year Noel is alone, broken-hearted and on the night shift.

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

Quiet Encounters and Flickers of Connection

In truth, the plot is minimal. Noel rescues a woman, Lydia (Hannah Gross), who has passed out drunk on a bench. She pops up again later in truly poignant scenes as Noel drives around New York, delivering trees – and these moments could ignite a small glimmer of good cheer in the grinchiest of hearts. Poekel hasn’t made a feature since this, which is a shame – it is unmatched for naturalness and ease, and it’s shot on beautifully grainy 16mm film.

A picture of understated charm and authentic atmosphere, portraying the loneliness and fleeting connection of the season.

Christmas, Again opens in UK cinemas from 12 December.