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- Review: Beautiful Emphasis on Faith & Family in Great American Family's "Mr. Manhattan"
Mr. Manhattan is the first of six drama movies to air on Great American Family after originally premiering on the streaming service, Great American Pure Flix. Each Saturday through September 7, five additional Pure Flix dramas will appear on Great American Family so that linear cable viewers can access new, faith-filled content. What Is Mr. Manhattan About? Great American Family's website shares this plot summary: Mason Bradley (Carlos PenaVega) makes a promise to his brother and sister-in-law to be godfather to their newborn son (and future children). Mason has exciting news of his own: he’s just been accepted to Columbia Law School, which comes as a shock to his fiancé, Dani (Alexa PenaVega). Ten years later, Mason is surrounded by big city life and consumed with the success that could come by being a partner in his company’s firm. Mason and Dani have long split up. One day, Mason receives an unimaginable call. Through a tragic accident, he has suddenly become the father of his brother’s children. Dani has remained best friends with Mason's sister-in-law, so she loves the children, Reuben and Amanda Jane, like her own. Even though Mason is the legal guardian, he has the option to appoint a different one, if he would rather not assume the responsibility. Dani volunteers to raise the children to provide them with the stability of their home, community, school, and friendships. Mason declines her offer. It's not long before Mason is overwhelmed. With grueling work hours and a girlfriend, he must also find a nanny, a school, a new apartment, and carve out time to spend time with the children. He's happiest when Dani visits to spend time with him and the kids, and she gently encourages him to lean on God, saying, " If you keep trying to do everything in your own strength, you're not going to leave room for Him to do something awesome!" Mason doesn't heed Dani's counsel and takes matters into his own hands (haven't we all done that?), which messes up everything. He realizes he missed God's timing, and with Dani's support, he finds his way back to his faith. Mr. Manhattan Is a Tear-Jerker! Great American Family displays a gentle heads-up at the beginning of the movie that Mr. Manhattan contains more dramatic moments than what viewers might expect, since the network typically airs light-hearted romcoms. There are three scenes that left me sniffling and dabbing my eyes. First, the kids have a nighttime routine they teach Mason. It includes a song, a prayer, and hugs. Mason asks Amanda Jane to pray instead of him. (Have your hanky ready!) Second, AJ has a nightmare, and Dani rushes to sing to her, just like AJ's mom used to. It's a hymn, Have Thine Own Way, Lord . (More Kleenex required.) Last, when Reuben battles a wave of sadness, Mason challenges him to role play. Mason pretends to be Reuben, and he asks Reuben to play his father. It ends up being a therapeutic exercise for them both. (Excuse me while I go blow my nose AGAIN.) I love dramatic movies like Mr. Manhattan and appreciate that Great American Family is including the genre in their lineup. Romcoms are fun, but I hope dramas will regularly work their way into the mix, too. IN THE COMMENTS, SHARE WHETHER YOU PREFER ROMCOMS, DRAMAS, OR A MIX OF BOTH ON GAF. Mr. Manhattan Boasts a Wonderful Cast Carlos and Alexa PenaVega are fabulously talented actors who create onscreen magic. The Christian couple has been married since 2014 and have three children, and their personal faith and family values shine through their performances. Great American Media President and CEO, Bill Abbott, promises that more movies featuring the PenaVegas are in the works. " We are excited about a number of additional projects in development with these two enormously talented actors," Abbott states. One of those projects will be unveiled this Christmas. Both PenaVegas will star in the Great American Family original movie, Love at the Kettle , a romcom which includes an emphasis on the good works of The Salvation Army. Maximo Masefield, who plays Reuben, and Melodie Romano, who stars as Amanda Jane, absolutely steal the show! Both of them nail their respective roles and look completely adorable while doing it. Despite their young ages, they are naturals! Let's hope GAF will cast them again. Francesca Barker McCormick plays the girlfriend we want out of the way so Mason can reunite with Dani, even though she is helpful and supportive of Mason throughout the entire movie. McCormick adds style and grace to her character. There are no B-rated actors in Mr. Manhattan . The entire cast is incredible. Final Thoughts on Review of Mr. Manhattan Mr. Manhattan gives viewers the best of both worlds. It offers romance, but it focuses on "pushing through" the difficult seasons of life while leaning on God and seeking His guidance rather than relying on our own strength. It reminds us that chasing the next big thing isn't what's important--investing in family and relationships in a way that honors God is what matters most. Mr. Manhattan is true to the Great American Family brand, and it's another entertainment oasis in a cultural climate that is increasingly hostile to faith and family. If you haven't watched the movie yet, here's a peek at the trailer:
- Jessica Lowndes to Star in a Movie with Daniel Lissing
Jessica Lowndes took to Instagram to share behind-the-scenes pictures from a new movie she's filming. Check out her co-star! Jessica Lowndes Is Filming a New Christmas Movie No details have been released about the new movie Jessica Lowndes is filming, but based on the pics and reels she's been posting to Instagram, it's clear it will be a Christmas one. Here's Lowndes' post: Let's do some sleuthing. Even though Lowndes doesn't mention any names (other than her fictional character, Chelsea), we can trace a few clues. First, Robin Dunne is tagged in the photo, so we know he's directing the film. Second, Lowndes says Dunne's wife plays her best friend in the movie, which is a treat since they've been real-life friends for nine years. That means, Farrah Aviva must be her co-star. Even better, Daniel Lissing is cast as her love interest. Based on the pics Lowndes posted, it looks like his character is some type of carpenter or craftsman. The set decor is a dead giveaway that the movie is a Christmas one, and since many holiday romcoms are filmed in the summer, we will most likely see this one during the 2024 Christmas season. Lowndes later posted, "Week 1 of filming is done! 2 more to go!" Romcoms typically take 2-3 weeks to shoot, so this tracks. This is the second movie Lowndes and Lissing have made together. The first was Hallmark's December Bride back in 2016. What Network Will Air the Jessica Lowndes & Daniel Lissing Christmas Movie? Lissing will already be appearing in a Hallmark Christmas movie opposite Erin Krakow called Santa Tell Me , so it's unlikely he would be starring in a second one for Hallmark during the same season. Lissing has headlined three recent Christmas movies for Great American Family ( A Christmas Star, Catering Christmas , and Christmas Keepsake ), so my guess is that this new movie will premiere on GAF. In 2022, Lowndes inked a four-picture deal with Great American Family to star in, write, direct and executive produce original films for the network. It's unclear whether her contractual obligation has been met. She has starred in more than four GAF movies ( An Autumn Romance, Angel Falls Christmas, Harmony from the Heart, I'm Glad It's Christmas , and A Harvest Homecoming ), but she has not had a hand in writing, directing, or producing all of them. My guess is that the new Christmas movie starring Lissing and Lowndes will debut on Great American Family, but I could be wrong! RomCom Review Shares Thoughts on the Upcoming Lowndes & Lissing Pairing Without a doubt, Daniel Lissing has captured the hearts of romcom fans from both his TV movies and his long stint on When Calls the Heart as Jack Thornton. Whether he uses an American accent or slips back into his authentically Aussie brogue, he is a charming, well-seasoned actor. His movies are always winners. Jessica Lowndes, however, is overrated as an actress. She has a lovely voice, but her onscreen performance is mediocre. If this new movie premieres on Great American Family, it's also worth noting that her public image doesn't match their brand. If you follow her on Instagram, you'll find that she isn't shy about using her body and sexuality to market herself. Between her reels, music videos, selfies, and still shots, her posts generate a narcissistic "porn" vibe. She could take a lesson from GAF A-listers like Candace Cameron Bure, Jen Lilley, and Danica McKellar--ladies with amazing style and flair who always look fantastic without compromising their modesty, humility, and integrity. Jessica Lowndes and Daniel Lissing each boast a large fan base, 773K and 337K respectively on Instagram, so their new movie will likely attract substantial viewership.
- Hallmark Announces EIGHT New Movies for Fall 2024
No tricks, just treats this Fall from Hallmark! The network just announced that SIX new movies will premiere on Hallmark Channel as part of their annual Fall into Love event along with TWO new whodunits on Hallmark Mystery. His & Hers Premieres: Saturday, September 7, at 8pm on Hallmark Channel Starring: Lacey Chabert & Brennan Elliott PLOT: Lawyers Mark and Dana are the perfect married couple until they find themselves on opposite sides of a highly public divorce case involving a warring reality show couple. This project marks Chabert's and Elliott's tenth movie together. Keep them coming! The Cases of Mystery Lane: Death is Listening Premieres: Friday, September 13, at 9pm Eastern on Hallmark Mystery Starring: Paul Campbell & Aimee Garcia PLOT: As Birdie and Alden Case's relationship strengthens, they discover a mutual interest for True Crime. But when their favorite podcaster is found dead, it is up to The Cases to listen to the clues. Sleuthers have been questioning whether or not this series would continue, and now, the mystery is solved! The Heiress and the Handyman Premieres: Saturday, September 14, at 8pm Eastern on Hallmark Channel Starring: Jodie Sweetin & Corey Sevier PLOT: After losing her fortune, an heiress moves to a rural farm where she mistakes her handsome neighbor for the handyman. To live up to her family's legacy, he helps her compete at the county fair. This movie will first premiere on the streaming service, Hallmark Movies Now, on August 29; however, it will not air on Hallmark Channel until September 14. Sevier is becoming a regular Hallmark staple, and no one is complaining! He's handsome and charming. Pairing him with Sweetin may not have been a good idea. She is a nasty woman in real life and flops in romcoms (remember the horror of A Cozy Christmas Inn !) Falling Together Premieres: Saturday, September 21, at 8pm Eastern on Hallmark Channel Starring: Ashley Williams & Paul Campbell PLOT: Natalie just relocated to Pittsburgh for work and is eager to become part of her new town. While exploring her surroundings, she comes across the perfect opportunity for involvement and joins the Walk to End Alzheimer’s as a volunteer. Meanwhile at home, her efforts to bring the building residents together as a community have fallen flat, and Mark, the prickly super, advises her to leave well enough alone. As the two spend time together while Natalie continues her quest to win over her neighbors, she and Mark become close and a spark begins to grow. But just when it looks like building harmony has been restored, things unexpectedly unravel. Disheartened, Natalie focuses her time and energy on the Walk which just may be the path to healing and happily ever after. Before her death, Williams' mother battled dementia, so several aspects of this movie are inspired from Williams' personal experiences. The Real West Premieres: Saturday, September 28, at 8pm Eastern on Hallmark Channel Starring: Kimberley Sustad, Lucas Bryant & James Denton. PLOT: A family vacation to a working Ranch introduces Professor Rebecca to Jake West. Rebecca is a widower chasing tenure and Jake is a handsome cowboy who never settled down. It's a storyline we've seen before, but Bryant will make the perfect cowboy. Yee-haw! A Sprinkle of Deceit: A Hannah Swensen Mystery Premieres: Friday, October 4, at 9pm Eastern on Hallmark Mystery Starring: Alison Sweeney, Victor Webster, Barbara Niven, Tess Atkins, & Lisa Durupt PLOT: Hannah caters Lonnie’s high school reunion, which is disrupted by a fight between his old friend Darcy and her boyfriend. Lonnie makes sure she gets home from the reunion safely, but the next morning, she is found dead, and Lonnie is implicated in her murder. As Hannah works with Chad to prove his innocence, she finds herself in the crosshairs of Darcy’s killer. Meanwhile, Delores finds herself unexpectedly whisked into the world of acting while also working the case in the way only she can. Autumn at Apple Hill Premieres: Saturday, October 5, at 8pm Eastern on Hallmark Channel Starring: Erin Cahill & Wes Brown PLOT: Following her divorce, Elise is renovating a B&B that she inherited from her grandparents. When Luke, a CFO of a major hotel chain, arrives in town, she does her best to scare him off, even though he might be the best person to help her restore the inn. It's another trope we've watched play out a thousand times, but we'll all probably watch it anyway! The movie is based on the book of the same name by Angie Ellington. Haunted Wedding Premieres: Saturday, October 12, at 8pm Eastern on Hallmark Channel Starring: Janel Parrish, Dominic Sherwood & Cassandra Potenza PLOT: Amateur ghost hunters Jane and Brian are looking forward to their upcoming wedding at a famously haunted inn, until their plans are disrupted by unexpected polter -guest Angelique–a ghost in an 18th century wedding dress, who mistakes Brian for her long dead fiancé. Most movies with Parrish aren't great. While the plot sounds unique and fitting for Halloween, those of us who don't like movies involving occult elements might want to skip this one. Hallmark Fall Movies 2024 Checklist! Bookmark this post for reference so you can follow the checklist below to make sure you don't miss the new Hallmark movies during Fall 2024! The most exciting thing about October 12 being the last Fall premiere is that Christmas movies will follow!
- Are You Up to Date on the Most Recent News from Great American Family & Hallmark? Here's a Recap and Analysis...
Great American Family and Hallmark have been sharing scores of updates on social media over the last two weeks, and you might be feeling a little overwhelmed from the news overload! New movies, series, and programs are headed our way. Some you won't want to miss while others are worth skipping. This post gives you the breakdown. Great American Family News The Great American Family inaugural Christmas Festival kicks off November 20, 2024, and runs through January 5! Along with celebrity appearances and live concerts, your family can enjoy ice skating, crafting, meeting Santa, singing Carol-oke, an ugly sweater contest, movie screenings, food, a tree lighting, and more! It all takes place at the UBS Arena in New York. Visit GAF's website to sign up for early ticket access and more information. A Little Women's Christmas began filming in Franklin, Tennessee. This modern retelling of the Louisa May Alcott classic was written by Dione Sheehan and features an ensemble cast: Trevor Donovan, Jesse Hutch, Jen Lilley, Laura Osnes, Jillian Murray, and Julia Reilly, with a special appearance by Gladys Knight. The original series, County Rescue , is returning for Season 2! The program explores the personal and professional challenges faced by EMTs and paramedics. The new season will premiere in January 2025 on both Great American Family and Great American Pure Flix. The cast includes Julia Reilly, Riley Hough, Percy Bell, Kristin Wollett, Brett Varvel, Stacey Patino, Tim Perez-Ross, Keller Fornes, Angel Luis, and Curtia Torbert. Great American Family has acquired the 2021 movie, The Beauty of Love , starring Jonathan Stoddard and Katerina Eichenberger . It will air for the first time on the network on July 27 at 8pm Eastern. Here's what it's about: Emma has built a successful lifestyle website that she puts her heart and soul into, called “Classically Emma”. But when her numbers start trending down, she thinks she might’ve found her fix in a partnership with an ambitious millennial named Jill who has her own dreams. Will Jill’s protective brother Jesse become a roadblock on Emma’s path to lasting success? Or will he be the unexpected obstacle that leads her down an even better road? GAF has also announced the premiere date of a new movie featuring Alexa and Carlos PenaVega. Mr. Manhattan , which previously aired on Pure Flix, will debut on GAF on August 3. Here's the synopsis that's listed on IMDb: Mason Bradley's life turns upside down when he unexpectedly becomes the sole guardian of his late brother's kids after prioritizing his law career and ending his engagement. Hallmark News Hallmark will roll out 40 new Christmas movies in 2024 between Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Mystery. The streaming service, Hallmark Movies Now, will be rebranded in September to Hallmark+ . Currently, HMN costs $5.99 per month, but with all the new content and perks featured on Hallmark+, the cost will rise to $7.99 per month. Here are the programs that have been announced so far for the new streaming service: Holidazed Holidazed will be a limited series that will follow six families with different backgrounds and cultures that reside on the cul-de-sac as they navigate the holiday season. ROMCOM REVIEW'S THOUGHTS: It's clear that this series will check a lot of DEI boxes for the woke brand, and any company fixated on D iversity, E quity, and I nclusion is a company that is D ivisive, E xclusionary, and I ndoctrinating its viewers. DEI movies and series that refuse to accurately represent societal demographics reveals a network that is less interested in entertaining than it is promoting a political ideology. Although details haven't been released about each episode, the trailer hints that the Asian family could possibly include a gay storyline, which isn't diverse as much as it perverse . Finding Mr. Christmas Jonathan Bennett, apparently Hallmark's gay DEI hire, will host a reality show where ten aspiring actors will compete through a series of romcom-esque challenges in hopes of being named "Mr. Christmas." The winner will land a leading role in a 2024 Countdown to Christmas movie on Hallmark Channel. Melissa Peterman will be the main judge, and a special guest judge will appear with her in each episode. ROMCOM REVIEW'S THOUGHTS: Conceptually, the premise for this unscripted program is fresh and fun--if you like reality shows (which I don't). Bennett is known for being a high-energy host, but his flaming mannerisms are a turn-off. The Groomsmen Following the success of The Wedding Veil trilogy, Hallmark is flipping the script to showcase the male perspective in the franchise. According to Hallmark, the films will follow “the lives and romantic relationships of three best friends of different backgrounds, cultures and sexual orientations — Pete (Britt), a kind-hearted pediatrician with a penchant for planning; Danny (Bennett), an ex-jock with a heart of gold; and Jackson (Hynes), the stylish and charming social media agent — as they each find love and wedding bliss in picturesque locations Greece, Italy and Bulgaria.” ROMCOM REVIEW'S THOUGHTS: Here we go again with yet another project built around DEI, and Hallmark has roped in one of its most popular stars, Tyler Hynes, to pedal the crap they are selling. Just as Hynes starred in the bomb Shifting Gears to promote "girl power" (as if women are always the victims of misogyny), Hallmark is using him again as bait. Celebrations with Lacey Chabert The most beloved Hallmark personality whose face has become synonymous with the brand, Lacey Chabert, will be hosting a program that will honor real-life heroes, which will include parties to celebrate them and the impact they have made on their respective communities. ROMCOM REVIEW'S THOUGHTS: Who does Hallmark consider "unsung heroes?" That remains to be seen. You would expect them to be veterans, first responders, and true champions. Let's hope they are. Based on Hallmark's recent woke track record, however, I wouldn't be surprised if the "unsung heroes" are those applauded for using paper straws instead of plastic or people who have traded their gas-powered cars for bicycles. Ready, Set Glow with Wes Brown It makes sense that the star of Haul Out the Holly , a movie about a neighborhood that takes decorating very seriously, would headline an unscripted reality show about families across the country who go over the top to light things up at Christmas. Small Town Setup with Ashley Williams Ashley Williams will host a reality dating show that will help small-town folks fall in love Hallmark style. I'm puzzled how this will unfold. Being from a small town myself, I can assure you that everyone already knows each other, and if couples haven't already gravitated to one another, there aren't viable matches to be made. Williams is another woke Hallmark celebrity who created the Make Her Mark women's directing program--an on-the-job mentorship initiative designed to "advance Hallmark's commitment to inclusive storytelling by supporting and increasing representation of women behind the camera." More feminist mumbo-jumbo that promotes the myth that women still don't have equal opportunity in the 21st century. Home Is Where the Heart Is with Luke MacFarlane This show features another gay Hallmark actor who will be showcasing his woodworking skills in a design series about home renovation. Love on the Danube Movie Franchise Hallmark+ will also release another trilogy about "three journeys to love" in "one unforgettable destination." The three couples include Wes Brown and Nazneen Contractor, Dan Jeannotte and Jessica Sipos, and Brendan Penny and Sarah Powers. The Chicken Sisters Series This novel by KJ Dell'Antonia is being transformed into a Hallmark+ scripted series. According to Hallmark's website, here's what it's about: The Chicken Sisters is a family drama dipped in southern charm and served up with a saucy side of romance. The setting is the fictional town of Merinac, where a generations-old rift between dueling fried chicken restaurants – Mimi’s and Frannie’s – has left the founders’ families fractured and the locals taking sides. When popular cooking competition show Kitchen Clash comes to town, this could be the recipe for ending this feud once and for all. But things are fixing to heat up both inside and outside of the kitchen as the reality show spotlight causes sparks to fly as secrets are spilled and feathers get ruffled. The series will star Schuyler Fisk, Genevieve Angelson, Lea Thompson and Wendie Malick. It will be narrated by Margo Martindale. Why Is Hallmark Showing the New Programs on Hallmark+ Instead of Hallmark Channel? In addition to the new programs, Hallmark+ will feature an extensive library of Hallmark movies, ad-free viewing, monthly $5 Hallmark Gold Crown Store coupons, free unlimited eCards, shopping rewards, and surprise gifts. Hallmark+ promises to bring all this content together in one convenient platform. Isn't that what our cable subscription to Hallmark Channel is supposed to accomplish? Lisa Hamilton Daly, EVP at Hallmark Media, says the outlook for linear cable is "grim," noting that there's no telling how long it will last. With so many viewers migrating to streaming, Hallmark must go to where their audience is. Or, is Hallmark simply mimicking Great American Family's business plan? Hallmark Drama recently rebranded to Hallmark Family and unveiled a new logo that looks strikingly similar to that of GAF's. Now, Hallmark is scrambling to achieve the same success in streaming that GAF is with Great American Pure Flix. The biggest difference is that Hallmark is woke at its core and GAF is not. Faithful Hallmark fans are incensed that they will miss out on all the new content that will show exclusively on the new Hallmark+ streaming platform. Many have taken to social media to vent and say they are already paying exorbitant prices for cable and aren't adding streaming to their already strained monthly budgets. Each streaming platform offers limited programming, so that means consumers must subscribe to multiple streaming services to have access to everything they want to see. It becomes overwhelming and costly. Based on the initial rollout of Hallmark+, it sounds like those without the streaming service will only be missing more woke ideology. The majority of the new content will feature DEI hires, gay hosts and characters, a fixation on skin color, feminism, and other Marxist ideals that do not accurately represent American culture and values. Hallmark is luring viewers with Hynes and Chabert before doing a bait-and-switch. While some blue-haired, tattooed, and heavily-pierced keyboard warriors will undoubtedly praise Hallmark for sharing stories that encapsulate "the real world" (as they call it), many will staunchly refuse to be brainwashed and remind Hallmark if they want to go woke, they can go broke. Hallmark's rabid insistence on exploring sinful homosexual relationships in movies is sad. It's celebrating what God says He hates, and the consequences are damning and eternal. Great American Family Is the Better Channel! Many viewers pine for the "old Hallmark," as they refer to it. That romcom utopia existed under the leadership of Bill Abbott. Abbott built the network into a magical and inspiring empire, but without him at the helm, Hallmark has been leading the charge to the bottom of the entertainment industry in our devolving society. Hallmark promotes division by subscribing to subversive and dystopian DEI practices that negatively impact faith and culture. The good news is that Abbott is STILL working his mojo as the President and CEO of Great American Family! If you want to watch movies and series that celebrate all the things Hallmark used to--faith, family, and country--then Great American Family is your destination for wholesome and family-friendly programming. Great American Family is NOT Hallmark 2.0. It's a shining light on a hill with fresh and uplifting content and familiar and fantastically gifted acting talent. Great American Family brings people together based on our shared experiences and values. How can you watch Great American Family? Check out all the options below: Stay Tuned for More Great American Family and Hallmark News! You can stay in the loop on Great American Family and Hallmark news by subscribing to this blog, following our GAF fans page or our Hallmark fan page (that only discusses family-friendly movies) on Facebook!
- Hallmark Channel's Christmas in July 2024 Schedule Is Here!
Just hear those sleigh bells jingling, ring tingle tingling too... in July? The summer event Hallmark fans have been waiting for is almost here! Christmas in July kicks off June 29 and continues for a whole month! If you're wondering if any of your favorite movies will be playing, you've come to the right place. Listed below is a breakdown of the daily Christmas movie schedule THROUGH JULY 27 . Hallmark revises and extends their online schedule each Sunday, so bookmark this post and check back each Sunday for updates to the schedule. THE TIMES LISTED BELOW ARE EASTERN ! Friday, June 28, 2024: 8pm An Unexpected Christmas 10pm Haul Out the Holly Saturday, June 29, 2024: 12am 'Tis the Season to be Merry 2am Noel Next Door 4am Navigating Christmas 6am A Christmas Cookie Catastrophe 8am Christmas by Design 10am A Cozy Christmas Inn 12pm Christmas Getaway 2pm Flipping for Christmas 4pm Crown for Christmas 6pm The Sweetest Christmas 8pm Falling Like Snowflakes (NEW!) 10pm Cross Country Christmas Sunday, June 30, 2024: 12am Christmas Next Door 2am Christmas in Evergreen: Letters to Santa 4am The Mistletoe Secret 6am The Christmas Cottage 8am Next Stop, Christmas 10am A Royal Christmas 12pm Christmas Made to Order 2pm Coyote Creek Christmas 4pm Picture a Perfect Christmas 6pm Falling Like Snowflakes 8pm A Biltmore Christmas 10pm Never Kiss a Man in a Christmas Sweater Monday, July 1, 2024: 12am Pride, Prejudice, and Mistletoe 9am Sense, Sensibility, & Snowmen 11am A Very Merry Mix-Up 1pm A Magical Christmas Village 3pm The Holiday Sitter 5pm A Fabled Holiday 7pm The Secret Gift of Christmas 9pm Christmas at the Plaza 11pm Checkin' It Twice Tuesday, July 2, 2024: 9am The Christmas House 11am Where are You, Christmas? 1pm Christmas with a Kiss 3pm Christmas Class Reunion 5pm The Most Colorful Time of the Year 7pm The Santa Summit 9pm Catch Me If You Claus 11pm Holiday Road Wednesday, July 3, 2024: 9am Christmas Wishes & Mistletoe Kisses 11am Ghost of Christmas Always 1pm My Southern Family Christmas 3pm Christmas with the Darlings 5pm The Royal Nanny 7pm Christmas Island 9pm On the 12th Date of Christmas 11pm Christmas by Starlight Thursday, July 4, 2024: 9am A Nashville Christmas Carol 11am Christmas Waltz 1pm Long Lost Christmas 3pm Small Town Christmas 5pm A Veteran's Christmas 7pm The Most Wonderful Time of the Year 9pm The Nine Lives of Christmas 11pm A Christmas Melody Friday, July 5, 2024: 9am The Nine Kittens of Christmas 11am My Grown-Up Christmas List 1pm The Perfect Christmas Present 3pm Sealed with a List 5pm A Very Merry Bridesmaid 7pm Christmas at Castle Hart 9pm Falling Like Snowflakes 11pm Time for Us to Come Home for Christmas Saturday, July 6, 2024: 6am It's Christmas, Eve 8am Jolly Good Christmas 10am Haul Out the Holly: Lit Up 12pm My Christmas Family Tree 2pm Magic in Mistletoe 4pm Write Before Christmas 6pm One Royal Holiday 8pm Three Wise Men and a Baby: Extended Cut 10pm Everything Christmas Sunday, July 7, 2024: 12am Christmas in Notting Hill 2am Christmas on Cherry Lane 4am A Royal Christmas Crush 6am Christmas in Tahoe 8am Snow Bride 10am A Kiss Before Christmas 12pm Letters to Santa 2pm Take Me Back for Christmas 4pm Mystery on Mistletoe Lane 6pm A Merry Scottish Christmas 8pm To All a Good Night 10pm Miracle in Bethlehem, PA Monday, July 8, 2024: 12am A Godwink Christmas 9am Joyeux Noel 11am Double Holiday 1pm Inventing the Christmas Prince 3pm The Christmas Contest 5pm Time for You to Come Home for Christmas 7pm A Royal Queens Christmas 9pm My Norwegian Holiday 11pm A Maple Valley Christmas Tuesday, July 9, 2024: 9am Under the Christmas Sky 11am A Wish for Christmas 1pm Friends and Family Christmas 3pm Holiday Hotline 5pm A Heidelberg Holiday 7pm A Christmas Cookie Catastrophe 9pm The Sweetest Christmas 11pm My Christmas Guide Wednesday, July 10, 2024: 9am Good Morning Christmas! 11am Christmas in Harmony 1pm Undercover Holiday 3pm A Not So Royal Christmas 5pm A Season for Family 7pm Cross Country Christmas 9pm A Blue Ridge Mountain Christmas 11pm Christmas Town Thursday, July 11, 2024: 9am Check Inn to Christmas 11am #XMAS 1pm Lights, Camera, Christmas 3pm Family for Christmas 5pm A Cozy Christmas Inn 7pm Christmas Land 9pm The Christmas Secret 11pm Let it Snow Friday, July 12, 2024: 9am Welcome to Christmas 11am When I Think of Christmas 1pm You, Me, & The Christmas Trees 3pm Time for Them to Come Home for Christmas 5pm Christmas Next Door 7pm Crown for Christmas 9pm Picture a Perfect Christmas 11pm The Christmas Promise Saturday, July 13, 2024: 6am 12 Gifts of Christmas 8am The Mistletoe Promise 10am A Christmas Detour 12pm Christmas on My Mind 2pm An Unexpected Christmas 4pm 'Tis the Season to be Merry 6pm Catch Me If You Claus 8pm Rescuing Christmas (New to HC but aired previously on HMN) 10pm Falling Like Snowflakes Sunday, July 14, 2024: 12am Christmas on My Mind 2am Crashing Through the Snow 4am Project Christmas Wish 6am Godwink Christmas: Second Chance, First Love 8am 12 Gifts of Christmas 10am The Santa Summit 12pm Haul Out the Holly 2pm Christmas Under Wraps 4pm On the 12th Date of Christmas 6pm Rescuing Christmas 8pm Ms. Christmas Comes to Town 10pm A Glenbrooke Christmas Monday, July 15, 2024: 12am Christmas in Montana 9am We Wish You a Married Christmas 11am Our Christmas Mural 1pm Karen Kingsbury's Maggie's Christmas Miracle 3pm If I Only Had Christmas 5pm Never Kiss a Man in a Christmas Sweater 7pm Flipping for Christmas 9pm Three Wise Men and a Baby: Extended Cut 11pm Christmas Island Tuesday, July 16, 2024: 9am Christmas at Dollywood 11am Round and Round 1pm Christmas by Design 3pm A Dream of Christmas 5pm Coyote Creek Christmas 7pm A Magical Christmas Village 9pm Next Stop, Christmas 11pm A Shoe Addict's Christmas Wednesday, July 17, 2024: 9am Noel Next Door 11am Never Been Chris'd 1pm Mystic Christmas 3pm Christmas in Evergreen: Letters to Santa 5pm A Godwink Christmas: Meant for Love 7pm Pride, Prejudice, and Mistletoe 9pm A Merry Scottish Christmas 11pm Christmas Made to Order Thursday, July 18, 2024: 9am A Big Fat Family Christmas 11am Gingerbread Miracle 1pm Christmas CEO 3pm Once Upon a Christmas Miracle 5pm The Christmas Cottage 7pm Love You Like Christmas 9pm A Very Merry Mix-Up 11pm Christmas Tree Lane Friday, July 19, 2024: 9am In Merry Measure 11am A Tale of Two Christmases 1pm Reunited at Christmas 3pm The Mistletoe Secret 5pm Everything Christmas 7pm Write Before Christmas 9pm Rescuing Christmas 11pm Letters to Santa Saturday, July 20, 2024: 6am Christmas Waltz 8am The Royal Nanny 10am Sealed with a List 12pm Switched for Christmas 2pm The Most Colorful Time of the Year 4pm Christmas by Starlight 6pm Christmas at the Plaza 8pm A Very Vermont Christmas (NEW!) 10pm Christmas Getaway Sunday, July 21, 2024: 12am The Most Wonderful Time of the Year 2am A Very Merry Bridesmaid 4am Christmas with a Kiss 6am Mingle All the Way 8am A Fabled Holiday 10am Christmas with the Darlings 12pm Time for Us to Come Home for Christmas 2pm The Nine Lives of Christmas 4pm A Veteran's Christmas 6pm A Very Vermont Christmas 8pm Heaven Down Here 10pm Hope at Christmas Monday, July 22, 2024: 12am Northern Lights of Christmas 9am Christmas She Wrote 11am Christmas Connection 1pm Coming Home for Christmas 3pm Christmas at Grand Valley 5pm A Royal Christmas Crush 7pm Magic in Mistletoe 9pm Haul Out the Holly: Lit Up 11pm Three Wise Men and a Baby Tuesday, July 23, 2024: 9am A Kismet Christmas 11am Making Spirits Bright 1pm Christmas in Tahoe 3pm A Bramble House Christmas 5pm Take Me Back for Christmas 7pm Mystery on Mistletoe Lane 9pm To All a Good Night 11pm A Little Christmas Charm Wednesday, July 24, 2024: 9am Christmas at the Golden Dragon 11am Once Upon a Holiday 1pm Holiday Hearts 3pm Christmas by Design 5pm Jolly Good Christmas 7pm An Unexpected Christmas 9pm A Biltmore Christmas 11pm Long Lost Christmas Thursday, July 25, 2024: 9am Navigating Christmas 11am Christmas in Rome 1pm My Christmas Family Tree 3pm Falling Like Snowflakes 5pm Miracle in Bethlehem, PA 7pm Snow Bride 9pm A Royal Christmas 11pm The Christmas Note Friday, July 26, 2024: 9am Sister Swap: A Hometown Holiday 11am Mingle All the Way 1pm A Kiss Before Christmas 3pm Christmas Wonderland 5pm A Christmas Detour 7pm Time for Me to Come Home for Christmas 9pm Time for Him to Come Home for Christmas 11pm Christmas Under Wraps Saturday, July 27, 2024: 6am A Homecoming for the Holidays 8am A Royal Queens Christmas 10am Christmas Town 12pm A Very Vermont Christmas 2pm Christmas Made to Order 4pm Never Kiss a Man in a Christmas Sweater 6pm Picture a Perfect Christmas 8pm An Ice Palace Romance (Not family-friendly) 10pm Rescuing Christmas Sunday, July 28, 2024: 12am A Blue Ridge Mountain Christmas 2am A Christmas Together with You 4am Coyote Creek Christmas 6am Christmas at Castle Hart 8am Christmas Island 10am A Heidelberg Holiday 12pm A Merry Scottish Christmas 2pm Christmas in Notting Hill 4pm My Norwegian Holiday 6pm An Ice Palace Romance 8pm A World Record Christmas 10pm Crown for Christmas Monday, July 29, 2024: 12am A Cozy Christmas Inn 11am The Most Wonderful Time of the Year 1pm The Sweetest Christmas 3pm Cross Country Christmas 5pm The Christmas Secret 7pm On the 12th Date of Christmas 9pm Small Town Christmas Tuesday, July 30, 2024: 11am Window Wonderland 1pm Christmas Land 3pm Haul Out the Holly 5pm The Santa Summit 7pm 'Tis the Season to Be Merry 9pm A Very Vermont Christmas Wednesday, July 31, 2024: 11am Just in Time for Christmas 1pm Five Star Christmas 3pm Rescuing Christmas 5pm The Secret Gift of Christmas 7pm Catch Me If You Claus 9pm An Ice Palace Romance Follow Our Facebook Page! The best way to stay updated on Hallmark news, movie schedules, and more is to follow our Hallmark Ever After Facebook page! Did you know that Hallmark Channel isn't the only network offering Christmas movies the entire month of July? Check out Great American Famil y's schedule for more holiday cheer!
- Review: Hallmark's "Falling Like Snowflakes" Is Cute but Average
A new Christmas movie was unwrapped in June as an early gift from Hallmark Channel! Falling Like Snowflakes premiered on June 29, 2024, just ahead of the network's annual Christmas in July event. For Hallmark fans who can't wait for Countdown to Christmas to begin in October, a new holiday movie in the summertime is appreciated more than a fresh batch of Mrs. Claus' cookies! What Is Falling Like Snowflakes About? Teagan (Dalton) has captured every type of snowflake with her camera except for the elusive 12-sided stellar dendrite. If she can complete her collection in the local art gallery by Christmas Eve, the wealthy Mr. Calvin Garrett will outbid everyone at the annual fundraiser, which will provide the financial resources needed to fix up the community center. When the perfect weather conditions align to increase her chances of finding the rare snowflake, Teagan convinces snowplow driver and former high school sweetheart, Noah (Rosner), to accompany her into the dangerous storm. Falling Like Snowflakes Includes a Few Unique Threads Viewers don't tune into Hallmark Channel for science lessons , but Falling Like Snowflakes shares interesting facts about these beautiful crystals. It's true that snowflakes, different as they are, ultimately fall into one of 35 categories, such as columns, hexagons, and needles. The 12-side stellar dendrite is rare because two, six-sided flakes must follow the exact same path and fuse together on the way down. For Hallmark to apply atmospheric science to snowflakes and thread the concept through the entire plot is creative genius. The best part is that the whole notion of two snowflakes randomly finding each other at the right place and the right time is used as a metaphor for what happens between Teagan and Noah. Plot tension builds when Suzanne Blanchard, another photographer, tries to beat Teagan to the 12-sided stellar dendrite. In the majority of Hallmark movies, the "bad guy" usually experiences a change of heart, so we stop intensely disliking them by the end. Not so in this movie! Suzanne never exchanges her black hat for a white one, which is more realistic. Most manipulative, self-seeking people we encounter stay the same, so it's more believable for her character to remain unchanged, though it's unusual for Hallmark not to redeem the antagonist. Viewers appreciate even the slightest of changes to the typical Hallmark formula, and Falling Like Snowflakes offers a few. Falling Like Snowflakes Isn't an Instant Classic Falling Like Snowflakes is incredibly average, even though it's worth watching once. Rebecca Dalton might be as cute as a button eye on Frosty, but she isn't much of an actress. To date, the majority of her Hallmark movies have been "meh." Her performances are relatively soulless and lack warmth as well as connection to her co-star and her audience. The scenes that are supposed to be perilous are phonier than the snowmen Hallmark uses for snowman building competitions. The "proverb" used throughout the movie is pretty weak. Teagan quotes her deceased mother throughout the movie who used to say, "A snowflake never falls in the wrong place," meaning that everything happens for a reason. Hallmark used to offer proverbs rooted in faith, but now they rely on Zen and other New Age philosophies about the "universe, "harmony with nature, " and "interconnectedness of all things" instead of principles of God and faith. The proverb really exists, but it's still dumb. It's nice to have a new movie to add to the Christmas in July mix of repeats, and the fun facts about crystal formations are fascinating. Regardless, Falling Like Snowflakes is a little boring, the chemistry is barely there, and it's not worth the real estate on the DVR. If you haven't watched Falling Like Snowflakes yet, you can view the trailer below:
- Hallmark Announces NEW "Summer Nights" 2024 Movie Schedule!
Following Passport to Love in June and Christmas in July , Hallmark's annual Summer Nights event kicks off in August 2024. On tap are five new movies premiering on Hallmark Channel and two new mysteries debuting on Hallmark Mystery! Junebug Starring Autumn Reeser and Aaron O'Connell Premieres: Saturday, August 3, 2024, at 8pm Eastern (Hallmark Channel) This movie marks Autumn Reeser's 20th project for Hallmark! Her journey with the network started back in 2012 with Love at the Thanksgiving Day Parade , though fans haven't seen her since the second Wedding Veil trilogy in 2023. Reeser will be starring opposite model and actor Aaron O'Connell who has only appeared in two Hallmark movies thus far: 12 Gifts of Christmas in 2015 and With Love, Christmas from 2017. PLOT: When an eight-year-old version of herself starts appearing to her, Juniper (Reeser) begins to realize that her life is not what she had hoped it would be as a child. Young Junebug pushes Juniper to achieve her dreams, to start writing again, and to collaborate with the cute artist Alex (O’Connell) that she recently met to get her life back on track. A story centering on one's "inner child" is a little different, but a writer searching for inspiration is a storyline that has been wildly overdone. Let's hope Reeser and O'Connell will make it feel fresh. My Dreams of You Starring Skyler Samuels and Kapil Talwalkar Premieres: Saturday, August 10, 2024, at 8pm Eastern (Hallmark Channel) It's a daring move to pair two people who aren't widely recognized in the Hallmark world! Skylar Samuels is the young Aurora Teagarden in Something New , which premiered in 2023 on Hallmark Mystery. If you aren't a mystery buff, you may have never seen her. Kapil Talwalkar is new to Hallmark, though you may recognize him from the 2023 reboot of Night Court . PLOT: Grace (Samuels) has recurring dreams about a handsome stranger named Michael (Talwalkar) due to a mix-up in Dream Central. When they finally meet in person, Grace is shocked to learn he has no idea who she is. It remains to be seen if Hallmark fans will warm to this unlikely couple or if the casting director will eat crow. The plot sounds very unique, so that may help draw an audience. A Costa Rican Wedding Starring Rhiannon Fish and Christopher Russell Premieres: Saturday, August 17, 2024, at 8pm Eastern (Hallmark Channel) Rhiannon Fish and Christopher Russell are very familiar and beloved Hallmark celebrities, though both actors have appeared in romcoms across various networks. PLOT: A clumsy maid of honor (Fish) gets help from her handsome nemesis (Russell) when things go awry at her best friend’s Costa Rican wedding. While this movie sounds like another tired and worn plot, the scenery will undoubtedly be a spectacular distraction, and fans will enjoy seeing two Hallmark stars they love. The Magic of Lemon Drops Starring Lyndsy Fonseca and Ian Harding Premieres: Saturday, August 24, 2024, at 8pm Eastern (Hallmark Channel) Lyndsy Fonseca has starred in Next Stop, Christmas and Where Are You, Christmas? for Hallmark, while Ian Harding has only appeared once in a Hallmark film, headlining Ghosts of Christmas Always . PLOT: When Lolly’s (Fonseca) Aunt gives her three magical lemon drops, she gets to experience what her life would have been like if she had made different choices and lived those unfulfilled dreams. Fantasy films have not been in abundance lately on Hallmark Channel, so this movie sounds promising. It's interesting that both of the movies these actors have starred in for Hallmark have also been of the fantasy genre. I think we can expect this movie to be a good one. Head Over Heels Starring Rebecca Dalton and Olivier Renaud Premieres: Saturday, August 31, 2024, at 8pm Eastern on Hallmark Channel Rebecca Dalton has appeared in a few Hallmark movies to date, including the Christmas in July premiere of Falling Like Snowflakes . You may remember Olivier Renaud from the 2024 Hallmark movie, Romance with a Twist . Interestingly, both actors have already starred together in a movie on another network called Christmas in Big Sky Country . PLOT: A suburban girl at heart, Addison (Dalton), is off to prove herself in the world of high-end fashion footwear when she lands a life-changing internship at an Upper East Side studio leading up to the star-studded New York Fashion Week. Addison is determined to hold onto her integrity and her family values while struggling to balance it all and forge a path to success and romance, although she may fall head over heels while trying to make her dreams come true. Nothing new to see here, either. In fact, Dalton just starred in something similar for Hallmark in 2024 titled Christmas by Design . Oh, well, she's beautiful and he's handsome, so we'll probably like it! Jazz Ramsey: A K-9 Mystery Starring Rachel Skarsten and Corey Sevier Premieres: Friday, August 2, 2024, at 9pm Eastern (Hallmark Mystery) Rachel Skarsten has starred in several Hallmark movies including her most recent, Christmas Island and The Royal Nanny . Corey Sevier is also a Hallmark staple, appearing in movies like Everything Christmas, The Dog Lover's Guide to Dating , and Noel Next Door . PLOT: When Jazz Ramsey (Skarsten) and her crime detection dog Zeus stumble upon an old crime scene, the K-9 trainer, her star pup, and ex-boyfriend and lead detective Nick (Sevier) are thrown into the investigation. Hallmark Mystery fans are always asking for new cozy mysteries, and this one has potential. I am not a fan of Skarsten, but I will tune in to see Sevier who is one of my favorites! These two celebrities have also worked together previously. Both played in a series called Little Men based on a Louisa May Alcott novel. The series ran from 1998-1999 for a total of 26 episodes. Nelly Knows Mysteries: A Fatal Engagement Starring Pascale Hutton and Kavan Smith Premieres: Friday, August 23, 2024, at 9pm Eastern (Hallmark Mystery) Pascale Hutton and Kavan Smith have starred in multiple Hallmark movies both separately and together along with being a couple in the series When Calls the Heart . A mystery movie with these two? Yes, please! PLOT: When an unusual handwritten letter arrives at Nelly’s (Hutton) office, she identifies the handwriting as belonging to her childhood friend Dahlia (Sarah Grey), claiming her boyfriend Blake (Julian Haig) is being unfaithful. Determined to help, Nelly wants some answers and rushes to Blake’s home only to find his dead body. When Dahlia becomes the prime suspect, the new, handsome Detective in town, Michael Hogan (Smith) must work with Nelly to prove that her childhood friend is not the killer everyone believes her to be. Hallmark's Summer Nights 2024 Has Something for Everyone! Tell me in the comments which movies look the best to you! Follow Our Facebook Page & Subscribe to the Blog! Stay in the loop to get all the Hallmark scoop! FOLLOW HALLMARK EVER AFTER FACEBOOK PAGE SUBSCRIBE TO THE BLOG
- This Week's NEWS from Hallmark & Great American Family (In Case You Missed It)
Hallmark and Great American Family shared more news this week about Christmas in July, new movies, and new series. In case you missed the scoop, here are some of the exciting details of upcoming projects: Lacey Chabert & Brennan Elliott Are Filming Another Movie Together! Chabert and Elliott captured our hearts when they starred as Jenny and Brian in the All of My Heart trilogy. The two have paired up for 10 Hallmark movies thus far, and another one is set to premiere in 2024 during Hallmark Channel's annual Fall into Love event. Many fans had high hopes for a fourth installment to the All of My Heart saga so we could see how things are going at the inn and learn if our beloved on-screen couple ever started a family. That isn't happening, but at least we're getting a fresh romcom from the two that sounds unique. His & Hers is the working title for the Fall movie, and here's the synopsis: "Married couple Dana (Chabert) and Mark (Elliott) are high-powered lawyers at two separate New York City law firms. They soon find themselves on opposing sides of a messy divorce between two reality stars, Sammy and Brett. When both clients are unable to compromise, Dana and Mark are headed for a courtroom showdown that results in tensions infiltrating their otherwise happy household." Hallmark Orders Three More Christmas on Cherry Lane Films No details have been released about the plots of the new installments, but since the original followed three couples, one might conclude that each new installment would center on one of the three. If you only watch Hallmark movies that are family-friendly, you might want to skip these, since one of the couples is gay. It's revolting to watch Hallmark sugarcoat perversion, but they keep doubling down on unnatural pairings in an attempt to normalize what isn't normal. Merry Movie Week Is Coming Up June 21-28 on Hallmark Mystery Christmas in July happens on Hallmark Channel for an entire month, but Merry Movie Week is exclusive to Hallmark Mystery. Sometimes fans confuse the two. The schedule is out for the June 21-28 event, so be sure to visit this post where I list all of the movies that will be showing. A New Mystery Series Starring Candace Cameron Bure Premieres in October on Great American Family If you miss watching Candace Cameron Bure in her role as Aurora Teagarden, you can follow her sleuthing again on October 4 when Great American Family debuts The Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Winemaker. The new mystery franchise is based on the books by Candace Havens. There are five books in the series, so let's hope additional movies will stem from this endeavor. We already knew this movie was coming sometime in 2024, but Great American Family just announced the official air date. Christmas in July Is Happening on Great American Family Hallmark Channel isn't the only network celebrating Christmas in July. Great American Family will also be airing 24/7 Christmas movies beginning July 1. Although Great American Family doesn't have the extensive catalog that Hallmark boasts, they are growing rapidly as viewers gravitate to movies that reflect pro-faith, pro-family, and pro-American content. The network is a breath of fresh air in the entertainment industry. Movies will feature stars you know, like Candace Cameron Bure, Danica McKellar, Jill Wagner, Chad Michael Murray, Jen Lilley, Lori Loughlin, Trevor Donovan, Laura Osnes, Merritt Patterson, Paul Greene, Cameron Mathison, Jennie Garth, Christopher Russell and more. Great American Family Announces Details of TWO NEW Christmas Movies! During the 2024 Christmas season, Alexa and Carlos PenaVega wil star in Love at the Kettle (working title) on Great American Family. The pair will play high school friends who reunite at the holidays as she returns home and enlists him to help her write a song to win back her ex. The press release states, “As the two reunite for the first time in a decade, they embark on a Christmas journey down memory lane, and soon realize true love may be closer than they thought. The heart of the movie centers on Jack’s role with The Salvation Army, and Bella soon finds herself inspired by his devotion and passion to a life of doing the most good. Filled with charming original music and its share of twists and turns, ‘Love At the Kettle’ demonstrates the importance of never losing sight of the ones who matter the most.” The couple had this to say to Variety about their new project together: “We are so excited about Love at the Kettle because it represents everything Carlos and I love about Christmas and the holiday season. We want to be a light in this industry and to offer families positive, uplifting and faith-filled stories,” says Alexa. Carlos adds, “We also feel fortunate to have worked with The Salvation Army for a number of years, and we look forward to representing the authentic goodness behind the brand and mission.” Christopher Russell and Merritt Patterson are also teaming up for Great American Christmas 2024 in A Vintage Christmas. The network released this synopsis: "Tessa (Patterson) is a dedicated historian and preservationist in her hometown of Oak Creek, an old-fashioned and passionate protector of the nostalgic. Sparks fly when a business developer, Noah (Russell) arrives in Oak Creek with plans to tear down an abandoned Post Office and replace it with a sleek, modern office complex. There are internal and external struggles among many in the community to arrive at a solution that serves the greater good for all concerned. As the clock ticks toward Christmas, the race to settle the dispute through concessions and compromise is on." Russell and Patterson have previously headlined other movies for the network. CEO, Bill Abbott, lauds the high-profile talent the channel is attracting and says, "Familiar faces like Merritt Patterson and Christopher Russell, are a big reason Great American Christmas has become so popular, so fast." Agreed. We give newbies a chance, but we prefer our tried-and-true favorites! That's a Wrap on This Week's Hallmark and Great American Family News! Keep up on all the latest Hallmark and Great American Family news: Follow This Blog Follow Our Hallmark Ever After Facebook Page Follow Our Great American Family Movie Fans Page
- Review: Is Hallmark's "Savoring Paris" Worth Watching? Oui!
Savoring Paris premiered in June 2024 as part of Hallmark Channel's Passport to Love event featuring all-new destination movies. The movie stars Bethany Joy Lenz, Stanley Weber, and Ben Wiggins. It's fun, flirtatious, and as always, it romanticizes Paris! What Is Savoring Paris About? Ella (Lenz) is a burned-out executive at an American food chain who jets off to Paris to recapture the happiness she once felt when vacationing there after college. Ella is so accustomed to making sensible choices, especially with a constant push from her mother, that she has lost who she is. While she tries to make sense of her life and figure out her next step, she is swept up in a busy social life, thanks to her landlord and new friend, Clotilde. Ella captures the attention of Clotilde's cousin and food critic, Gaston, a "cad" known for being a bit of a player. In the meantime, Ella's love affair with cheese sends her daily to La Fromagerie, a cheese shop run by Serge, known to locals as the "grump." When she learns Serge is hiring, she volunteers to work for him part-time. Since she doesn't have a work visa, he pays her in cheese. Caught in a love triangle and running out of time on her visa, Ella must choose between a safe and practical life in the States or one in Paris where she is happy and fulfilled. Review of Hallmark's Savoring Paris Savoring Paris playfully immerses the viewer into French culture, even though the experience is a vicarious one through Ella. We learn the French don't hug but greet each other with a kiss to each cheek. It's fashionable to be late. The French also appear to indulge in sweets, wine, and lots of cheese! Ella eats a steady stream of crepes and cheese without gaining an ounce, which confirms the story is pure fiction. I am on a quest to find the Mimolette cheese Serge claims is life changing. If you've ever eaten it, share your thoughts on it in the comments. Savoring Paris is a delight. Ella wants to improve her French, but everyone keeps speaking to her in English, and not mastering the language leads to a big misunderstanding between her and Gaston. The French background music is peppy and appropriate, and Ella's wardrobe is very chic, flirty, and exudes a distinct Parisian vibe. I love the concept of a "reverse bucket list," and my favorite scene is Ella's admission to the man she chooses near the end (no spoilers here!) because her speech is romantic, heartfelt, and passionately delivered. In Savoring Paris, the acting is wonderful, the culture is intriguing, and the script is well-written. If the plot included a moral, it would be that no matter what city you live in around the world, you can make that place better by building community and finding fulfillment in meaningful work and relationships. If you haven't had a chance to catch Savoring Paris, it's definitely worth watching. Just be sure you have a glass of wine and a plate of cheese nearby because you might develop cravings as you watch! Watch the Trailer for Savoring Paris Be sure to follow our Facebook page, Hallmark Ever After. We share daily schedules, Hallmark news, updates on your favorite stars, pics, celebrity birthdays, & other unique Hallmark fandom! #SavoringParis
- Hallmark Mystery's "Merry Movie Week" 2024 Schedule!
While Hallmark Channel fans eagerly anticipate the annual Christmas in July movie event, Hallmark Mystery starts making the yuletide gay in June with seven days of holiday movies during Merry Movie Week 2024! Christmas Movie Schedule for Hallmark Mystery's Merry Movie Week 2024 The selection is great, but it's odd that Hallmark is repeating movies throughout the 7-day (June 21-28) event when they have an extensive catalog of movies that makes repetition unnecessary. Listed below is the Merry Movie Week 2024 schedule. Share in the comments which movies you're looking forward to the most! June 21 (Friday) 3/2c: Time for Us to Come Home for Christmas 5/4c: Christmas on My Mind 7/6c: To All a Good Night 9/8c: Mystery on Mistletoe Lane 11/10c: A Godwink Christmas June 22 (Saturday) 1a/12c: Love You Like Christmas 3a/2c: Journey Back to Christmas 5a/4c: Christmas Wonderland 7a/6c: The Perfect Christmas Present 9a/8c: Christmas in Montana 11a/10c: A Glenbrooke Christmas 1/12c: The Christmas Promise 3/2c: Ms. Christmas Comes to Town 5/4c: Heaven Down Here 7/6c: Miracle in Bethlehem, PA 9/8c: Time for Her to Come Home for Christmas 11/10c: Long Lost Christmas June 23 (Sunday) 1a/12c: Time for Me to Come Home for Christmas 3a/2: Time for You to Come Home for Christmas 5a/4c: Once Upon a Christmas Miracle 7a/6c: A Christmas to Remember 9a/8c: Homegrown Christmas 11a/10c: Time for Them to Come Home for Christmas 1/12c: Time for Him to Come Home for Christmas 3/2c: Small Town Christmas 5/4c: A Veteran’s Christmas 7/6c: My Christmas Guide 9/8c: A Season for Family June 24 (Monday) 3/2c: Project Christmas Wish 5/4c: A Little Christmas Charm 7/6c: Christmas Tree Lane 9/8c: Northern Lights of Christmas June 25 (Tuesday) 3/2c: A World Record Christmas 5/4c: A Godwink Christmas: Second Chance, First Love 7/6c: Christmas at Grand Valley 9/8c: Hope at Christmas June 26 (Wednesday) 3/2c: A Maple Valley Christmas 5/4c: Every Christmas Has a Story 7/6c: A Homecoming for the Holidays 9/8c: A Blue Ridge Mountain Christmas June 27 (Thursday) 3/2c: Karen Kingsbury's Maggie's Christmas Miracle 5/4c: The Christmas Secret 7/6c: Mystery on Mistletoe Lane 9/8c: The Christmas Promise June 28 (Friday) 3/2c: My Christmas Guide 5/4c: Time for Her to Come Home for Christmas 7/6c: Christmas in Montana 9/8c: Miracle in Bethlehem, PA Follow our Hallmark Facebook Page! Follow our Facebook page, Hallmark Ever After, for extra doses of Hallmark Christmas cheer. Our page posts the schedules and movie posters daily, plus you can always find them here on this website under the schedules tab!
- Review: Is Hallmark's "For Love & Honey" Worth Watching? Get the "Buzz" on the Movie!
Some call Hallmark's For Love & Honey a "sleeper" that even Andrew Walker couldn't save while others marvel at the delightful plot and gorgeous backdrop. Is the movie worth watching? Romcom Review weighs in "bee-low!" For Love & Honey Boasts a Unique Plot Andrew Walker plays Austen Morgan, a visiting archaeology professor at a Maltese university. Austen has a limited window of time to make a discovery that will lead to increased funding and secure his tenure. His goal is lofty, but his motto is, "go big or go home." He's banking on finding a box that is depicted in a 17th century Jesuit priest's diary that contains a "golden way" that leads to never-ending prosperity. The priest had stopped in Malta on his way to Michigan, but Austen must connect the dots and produce something tangible. When Ava, a beekeeper at the local apiary, is called upon to remove a wild beehive from a wall near the library, she scrapes the surface and discovers an ancient fresco. Even more fascinating, an infrared camera exposes a hidden symbol: three Greek nymphs called "Bee Maidens" that were said to have the gifts of prophecy. Austen knows the painting is the key to his discovery, and Ava begrudgingly agrees to help him with his research. They visit every site pictured on the painting but come no closer to cracking the mystery, until a local mentions "Old Honey Road" and the significance it plays in Malta's history surrounding the harvest blessing. As Austen and Ava unravel the mystery, they discover something even sweeter than honey--love! Review: Hallmark's For Love & Honey Is Multi-Faceted For those of us who are weary of the same worn Hallmark plots, For Love & Honey is a welcome change. There are multiple layers to keep the audience hooked: Educational components that share fun facts about history and beekeeping Mystery Humor Gorgeous scenery and architecture Realistic characters Most of us aren't well-versed in Maltese history, so it's nice to be entertained AND learn something. The number of empires and rulers over this island country have been numerous! The movie mentions the Greeks, Roman occupation, the Knights, and pirate activity, just to name a few! (FYI--Malta is now an official republic and is part of the European Union.) Viewers also learn that honey rarely spoils (due to its natural preservatives and antimicrobial properties) and that the oldest honey ever found was over 5,000 years old. Don't "bee-lieve" it? It's true! I looked it up. Prior to the 2012 discovery, the oldest known honey had been found in King Tut's tomb and was 3,000 years old. During pipeline construction in the country of Georgia, west of Tblisi, ceramic vessels of honey were found in a noblewoman's tomb that contained several types of honey, including varieties made with meadow flower, berry, and linden flowers. The honey was estimated to be 5,500 years old! Instead of the usual fluff you'd expect in a romcom, For Love & Honey includes a captivating mystery. What is the significance of the fresco? What is the "golden way" that leads to never-ending prosperity? How are the Bee Maidens an important link? (No spoilers here!) Austen adds comedy to the movie with well-timed quips. From ribbing Eva about her driving and not maintaining the oil in her vehicle to intentionally greeting locals with a Maltese phrase that translates, "I smell like fish," he lightens the mood. The architecture of Malta covers multiple centuries and influences, and the landscapes are gorgeous, coagulating in the perfect backdrop for a Hallmark movie! The characters are realistic. As our favorite actors like Andrew Walker age, it's no longer believable for them to be discovering first love. It makes sense that Austen and Ava are divorced and at a good space in their lives where they are happy if they find love but content if they don't. Austen is fulfilled by his career, and Ava aspires to fill her mother's shoes at the apiary. The relationship between Ava and her sister, Chloe, is also sweet. Ava tries to run the family business just like her mother, but Chloe is bubbling over with ideas to expand and modernize to reach new customers and venues. The two form a solid partnership where their individual strengths bring balance. For Love & Honey is well-researched, insightful, unique, well-written and offers an enjoyable escape to beautiful Malta! For Love & Honey Has Some Problems Despite the fresh plot and intriguing location, For Love & Honey isn't Hallmark's best, and critics of the movie offer justifiable feedback. Hallmark fans will turn a blind eye to some issues, like how a huge pile of rocks that is integral to the plot has remained undisturbed for centuries, that a piece of ancient pottery happens to casually be laying above ground, or how the box that the Jesuit priest supposedly took to the New World is still in Malta. What they won't overlook, however, is the total absence of chemistry. Andrew Walker can typically generate sizzle with any co-star, but his powers are completely lost on Margaret Clunie. Though Clunie brings a regal air to her role and does a fine acting job, romance is dead, and that is a deal-breaker in a romcom. Clunie is a poor casting choice. Speaking of Clunie, who planned the wardrobe for this movie? The hot topic on social media is the ghastly pants Clunie wears in the movie that look like three people could fit into them. She sports at least three different pairs in various scenes, all equally hideous and distracting. Viewers who tuned out by the first commercial break say the movie didn't capture their interest. They grew bored or got lost in the sometimes-convoluted archeological explanations of the clues. I disagree with this analysis. My curiosity was piqued early by the mystery, and I liked the historical information overload--it's a movie that engages your brain, and you have to pay close attention to process the details. Writers do not gloss over history but take the time to incorporate fascinating facts, and I appreciate the out-of-the-box creativity. Some argue that archeology and beekeeping are too unrelated to be entwined in a movie plot, but mixing the two is what makes the movie inventive and original. If "honey-one" can do it, it's Hallmark! As much as I love the imaginative story, without romance, a Hallmark movie dies, so For Love & Honey isn't likely to make Hallmark's fan-favorite list. If you haven't watched it, at least give it a try. It's worth watching once. 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- Hallmark Channel Unwraps NEW Movies for "Christmas in July" 2024 Schedule!
Hallmark Channel announces plans for its 12th annual Christmas in July celebration. It's an event that Hallmark fans eagerly anticipate--an early start to our favorite movie season! Hallmark's Christmas in July Features Two Premieres and Two Movies That Previously Aired on Hallmark Movies Now Two original movies are in the Hallmark Channel lineup: Falling Like Snowflakes (premiering June 29) and A Very Vermont Christmas (premiering July 20). Two movies that previously aired on Hallmark Movies Now will debut on Hallmark Channel during the July event: Rescuing Christmas and An Ice Palace Romance. Fans of Three Wise Men and a Baby will be treated to an Extended Cut of the movie. If you have Hallmark Movies Now, you will be gifted with an original release, too: Operation Nutcracker. Hallmark Channel's Christmas in July Fan Favorite Marathon From now until June 23, viewers can visit the Hallmark Movie Checklist App to vote weekly for their favorite Christmas movies that will then air during the Fan Favorite Marathon from June 28 through July 8. The only downside is that Hallmark pre-selects the options. Many viewers express on social media their desire to see older holiday films from Hallmark's extensive vault, but for some unexplained reason, Hallmark ignores them and insists on replaying the newer movies. Although there have been some very unique and creative recent movies, fans insist that the older films have more substance and less cookie cutter fluff. Why Hallmark resists playing the high-quality movies from their library is anyone's guess, but some believe it's due to older films not matching the current leadership's political ideology that demands Marxist elements of diversity, equity, and inclusion in stories. Christmas in July for Hallmark Movies Now Subscribers If you are a Hallmark Movies Now subscriber, there will be plenty of hot cocoa, Christmas cookies, and tree lightings for you, too! Operation Nutcracker will premiere on HMM on July 1, starring Christopher Russell and Ashley Newbrough. During the month of July, those with the streaming service will have access to 350 Christmas movies, totaling over 500 hours of holiday spirit, plus weekly themed collections. Win a Trip to Hallmark's Christmas Experience During the Christmas in July Event Hallmark recently unveiled its plans for the first ever Hallmark Christmas Experience, which will run on weekends from November 29 through December 23, 2024. The event takes places in Kansas City, Missouri, right outside of Hallmark's headquarters, and will include tons of your favorite Hallmark stars. Although the festive square is open to the public for free, interacting with the stars or enjoying a more immersive experience requires a ticket--and the packages are expensive! The Be Merry option is $259, and the Find Magic package is $699! During Hallmark Channel's Christmas in July event, watch for a way you can win a trip for two to the Hallmark Christmas Experience. Hallmark Channel's Christmas in July 2024 New Movie Lineup Here's a look at the schedule and synopsis of all the new movies playing during Hallmark's Christmas in July 2024 event: FALLING LIKE SNOWFLAKES (NEW) Premieres: June 29 Starring: Rebecca Dalton and Marcus Rosner Synopsis: A photographer, determined to complete her exhibit by capturing a rare photo of a 12-sided snowflake, enlists the help of a childhood friend, and they go on a mission they’ll never forget. THREE WISE MEN AND A BABY: EXTENDED CUT Showing: July 6 Starring: Paul Campbell, Tyler Hynes, and Andrew Walker Synopsis: Three brothers get the surprise of their lives when they are forced to work together to care for a baby over the holidays. RESCUING CHRISTMAS Showing: July 13 Starring: Rachael Leigh Cook and Sam Page Synopsis: In a world where Santa is real and wants to drum up some holiday spirit, two of Santa’s elves, Chuck and Debbie, devise a plan to grant one human on Earth three wishes to kickstart the holidays. Unfortunately, that human is Erin, who has lost all affection for the season. Even a blind date set up by her sister, with the affable and charming Sam, won’t change her mind about Christmas. But when she makes the mistake of... LESS wishing Christmas would “just disappear,” Erin wakes up to a world where the holiday never existed! Horrified, she realizes that she’s taken away everyone’s joy, so she enlists Sam to help her reinvent the festivities from scratch. In the process, Erin learns just how much this holiday and its traditions have meant to everyone around her - and how much Sam has come to mean to her. A VERY VERMONT CHRISTMAS (NEW) Premiering: July 20 Starring: Katie Leclerc and Ryan McPartlin Synopsis: A local champion skier and Vermont brew master team up as an unlikely match to create a seasonal microbrew, in order to save her family’s business by Christmas. AN ICE PALACE ROMANCE Showing: July 27 Starring: Celeste Desjardins and Marcus Rosner Note: NOT FAMILY-FRIENDLY! Viewers who have watched this previously on HMN share that an over-the-top gay man appears within the first ten minutes of the movie to describe his wonderful first date with another man. If you do not enjoy seeing sugar-coated perversion, you might want to skip this one. SYNOPSIS: A journalist faces old fears when she returns to her hometown ice rink to cover a story. With the help of the owner and his young daughter, she begins to reevaluate her life’s purpose. OPERATION NUTCRACKER (NEW--ONLY ON HALLMARK MOVIES NOW) Premieres: July 1 Starring: Ashley Newbrough and Christopher Russell SYNOPSIS: When an antique nutcracker set to be auctioned at the Warby family Christmas charity goes missing, a demanding event planner and the heir to the Warby dynasty try to track it down. Want MORE Christmas in July Movies? Watching holiday movies smack in the middle of summer can help you beat the heat, but if you tire of seeing the same movies on a loop, Hallmark Channel isn't the only network hauling out the holly in July. Great American Family channel will also be running Christmas movies during the month of July for their annual event, so, come July, check out their website schedule for movies you may have never seen!