Unlikely Angel (1996)

After she dies in an automobile accident, a brassy lounge singer (Dolly Parton, RIP) is prevented from entering the gates of Heaven by St. Peter (Roddy McDowall) because she hasn't done enough good deeds. He gives her a second chance by allowing her to return to earth to accomplish the necessary good deeds by Christmas Eve. Directed by Michael Switzer (FALLEN ANGEL). A Christmas movie made for television, this is a predictable by the numbers telefilm. You know exactly where it's going to go and the outcome is never in question. Hey, it's a Christmas movie! There's only one reason to bother with a movie like this and that's Dolly Parton. Even in a mediocre vehicle like this, she shines. She knows her limitations as an actress but like certain actresses (Betty Grable comes to mind), she's so likable and with a charismatic personality that you can't take your eyes off her. She gets to sing several songs in her inimitable style and even manages to make Jingle Bells sound fresh. With Brian Kerwin and Maria Del Mar.