Tis’ the season for heartfelt tales, snow-covered romances and whimsical holiday magic. The holiday season would not be the same without the feel-good charm of Hallmark Channel’s iconic Christmas movies. Some hold strong opinions on Hallmark movies and whether or not they are just too cheesy. However, I am Hallmark Channel’s #1 fan when it comes to the holidays. While there are a lot of movies that hold similar plot lines and predictable endings, I have compiled a list of the best ones. If you are a Hallmark hater, give these movies a try, I’m sure you will change your mind.
“The Nine Lives of Christmas”
Released in 2014, “The Nine Lives of Christmas” is one of my all-time favorite Hallmark movies. Love is just a whisker away, as a young firefighter and cat-lover veterinarian student are unexpectedly brought together by a fluffy orange feline named Ambrose. Zach and Marilee, the two main characters, quickly form a connection because of Ambrose’s match matching. If you are a huge animal lover, like me, you will find this adorable story heartwarming and charming,
“A Biltmore Christmas”
In this 2023 release, a holiday getaway at the iconic Biltmore Estate turns into an unexpected romance between an event planner and a charming historian. A magical hourglass sends Lucy Hardgrove back in time to 1947, where she meets actor, Jack Huston, on the set of his movie “His Merry Wife.” Hardgrove, played by Bethany Joy Lenz, must figure out a way to get back to the present without falling in love and messing everything up. This movie is actually based on the real Biltmore Estate in N.C. While this is a new Hallmark movie, I can see it turning into a classic in years to come.
“November Christmas”
“November Christmas” is one of the best Christmas movies I have ever seen. Released in 2010, this “Hallmark Classic” revolves around a little girl named Natalie who, despite being diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, continues to embrace life with a joyous spirit. Her family comes to the reality that Natalie is not going to make it through the rest of the year, so they move up the holidays, hence the “November Christmas.” This is such a beautiful movie, very different from most Hallmark films. It weaves moments of joy and sorrow, as the warmth of the holidays brings the family together in such a tough time. I highly recommend this movie, as it will change your perspective on life. It’s heartbreaking, beautiful and filled with resilience — but do not forget to bring tissues.
“Northpole: Open for Christmas”
What’s a Hallmark Christmas movie without a beautifully decorated Christmas inn? “Northpole: Open for Christmas,” starring Lori Loughlin and Bailee Madison centers around a determined businesswoman, Mackenzie, who is about to sell her aunt’s beloved bed and breakfast. When she arrives at the inn, Mackenzie is greeted by the handyman, his daughter and an elf. Filled with heartwarming moments, festive decor and a sense of pure holiday wonder, this is one of my favorite Hallmark films.
“The Christmas Train”
Another “Hallmark Classic,” this story, released in 2017, is about a journalist named Tom Langdon who takes a four-day train trip in hopes of getting ideas for a book he’s writing about his late father. He reluctantly boards the train and does not feel good about this journey. Forced to immerse himself in a magical Christmas train, where every car is decked out in sparkling garlands and festive lights, Tom quickly learns the true meaning of the holiday season. On the trip, he meets Eleanor, a warm and joyous soul who opens Tom’s heart. This is truly a beautiful movie that I highly recommend. It’s sort of the adult version of “The Polar Express,” with a little less Santa Claus.
“Christmas Cookies”
Headstrong Hannah Harper is tasked to sell her aunt’s beloved Christmas cookie company, but what she doesn’t realize is all the wonderful memories the company holds. When Hannah meets Jake, the factory owner she quickly realizes that selling the company is a lot harder than she thought. Set in the charming small town of Cookie Jar, this movie is all about local love, holiday magic and delicious cookies. The Christmas spirit in Cookie Jar is too strong and as Hannah falls in love she must decide what to do about her aunt’s company. This is such a fun, classic Hallmark movie that will fulfill your holiday wishes.
While it’s easy to dismiss Hallmark Channel’s Christmas movies as cheesy or predictable, there’s a reason they have been an enduring holiday tradition. Beneath the festive cliches and similar plot lines, there is something so nice about cozying up and watching a movie you know will make you feel good inside. These movies offer a much-needed dose of feel-good joy and a reminder that, sometimes, the simplest of stories are the best ones.
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