Graduation Cards
They're here! They're here! CHRISTMAS MOVIES are FINALLY HERE!!! Grab a cozy blanket and settle in for 5 All New Christmas Movie Premieres from Great American Family, the Hallmark Channel, and Hallmark Movies & Mysteries this weekend + a non-holiday rom-com premiere on UPtv!
Check out details on all of the New Movies below, plus see the Christmas TV Schedule for even more NEW Christmas movie premieres.
Let's go dashing through the snow! Ready or not, here we go...
Friday, October 21, 2022:
Storyline: “A hard-working, single mom gets into a war of words with a neighbor who she feels is ruining Christmas, only to find that this misunderstood grouch just may steal her heart.”
Premieres Friday, October 21, 2022
at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel
Saturday, October 22, 2022:
Storyline: Kim and Theo meet amid Black Friday shopping madness but there’s a definite spark between them. When a power outage causes some panic at a store, the couple gets separated. With Christmas coming, there should be plenty of distractions, but neither Kim nor Theo can forget the other. Both yearn to find each other but how with so little information to go on? It’ll take a little Christmas magic and destiny to bring them back together.
Premieres Saturday, October 22, 2022
at 8pm/7c. on Great American Family
Saturday, October 22, 2022:
Storyline: “Becca and Robby are a married couple having a hard time connecting with each other as the holidays approach. Just before Christmas, they head to a cozy Vermont inn at the advice of their marriage coach so they can recharge. Their weekend away gets unexpectedly extended when a mishap puts their car out of commission and just may put them on the road to a very happily married Christmas.”
Saturday, October 22, 2022
at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel
Saturday, October 22, 2022:
Storyline: “Julie is adjusting to being a single mother to a grieving child while facing her first Christmas without her husband when she develops an unexpected friendship with her older neighbor Irene.”
Saturday, October 22, 2022
at 10pm/9c. on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries
*Note: The poster above says 9pm, but this Christmas movie will premiere at 10pm/9c. Unfortunately, Hallmark did not release this poster on their press site with the correct time.
Sunday, October 23, 2022:
Storyline: After a disagreement between her son and another student, single-mother Piper is teamed up with that student’s handsome single-father to stage the school play, Romeo and Juliet. Piper must get past her ego, face her feelings, and figure out how to operate a hot-glue gun – all before opening night!
Premieres Sunday, October 23, 2022
at 7pm/6c. on UPtv
Note: See my movie review of "Star-Crossed Romance" in my closing comments below...
Sunday, October 23, 2022:
“Sarah is a children’s book author who returns to her hometown, where she reconnects with her family and Travis, her teenage crush. She soon discovers that a long-held family legend might actually be true.”
Sunday, October 23, 2022
at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel
What a fun weekend ahead for Christmas movies! I'm looking forward to Great American Family's premiere, Destined at Christmas, and two of Hallmark's look potentially good to me... Noel Next Door and A Kismet Christmas!
Destined at Christmas looks intriguing since it centers around Black Friday shopping and falling in love! I'm curious to see how these two people will search for one another after their chance meeting.
Noel Next Door is giving me and I'm sure many of you, too, vibes of Christmas Next Door, but the male lead seems even Grinchier. That's a word, right? Anyway, I'm looking forward to seeing Natalie Hall and Corey Sevier paired together again. They had such great chemistry in Road Trip Romance, even if the story faltered in a few places.
Then, the last movie I'm excited about is... A Kismet Christmas! I was instantly drawn to the images where they dress up in Victorian-style costumes. I also love that the lead role is a children's book author. It looks like a sweet one, and it's nice to see the young actress from last year's GAC Family premiere, A Christmas Miracle for Daisy.
*Be sure to note... the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries NEW Christmas movie, We Need a Little Christmas, premieres on SATURDAY night at 10pm/9c. I know we are used to most premieres on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries on Sunday evening. This movie looks good to me, too, but I know it may also be a little sad, as well.
Last, but not least, for the Christmas movies... Kristoffer Polaha's all new Christmas movie, We Wish You a Married Christmas, premieres this weekend! Don't get me wrong, I really him, but I'm not too sure about this story with the quarreling spouses. Plus, some of the other characters seem to be a bit over-the-top with their silliness in the commercial promo, but we'll see.
In non-holiday movie news... I pre-screened the new UPtv movie, Star-Crossed Romance...
Movie Review:
Star-Crossed Romance is mostly family-friendly, with a few cautions... God's name is used in vain, at least twice, and the drama teacher, who is one of the side characters, acts VERY, VERY Strange. He has a fairly large stomach and he often rubs it and rolls around to get on the stage. My eyebrows were raised more than a few times. The chemistry between the leads was lacking, in my opinion, and some of the acting was sub-par. I never quite understood why the parents were punished to work on the school play's set after their children, who are portraying a modern (very odd) re-telling of Romeo and Juliet, got in a fight. Near the end, there was a nice moment when the two single parents and their children enjoyed a family dinner, but even that was spoiled when Piper, the mother, asks if they say grace, and the father and daughter, say “yeah,” and they simply say “grace” loudly in unison. They all laugh and begin to eat. So… praying is essentially laughed at. I could go on, but I'll just say it has a happy ending where family is put first before work, but the movie is definitely not a keeper for me. ~Net
If you'd like to share your thoughts on the new movies or anything else... please leave a response in comments below.
Disclaimer: Please know when I share a movie, this is NOT an endorsement of any of the actors involved, personally or professionally, with their other TV/film projects.
Please note: I haven't pre-screened the new Christmas movies airing this weekend. If you'd like to post a review on whether a film is family-friendly, please share in comments. For those of you who may be curious... yes, I will be creating a posting with movie reviews from all of the Christmas movies - as soon as they come in. Thank you to everyone who participates in this. You are very much appreciated!
Joyous Blessings to You All, Net
🌟 SHINING HIS LIGHT 🌟
"And she shall bring forth a son,
and thou shalt call His name JESUS:
for He shall save His people from their sins."
~Matthew 1:21 (KJV)
Christmas movies on DVD:
Isn’t same girl; Ruby Tupper from A Christmas Miracle for Daisy is in A Kismet Christmas???
ReplyDeleteYes, the little girl is Rubi Tupper and she starred in both A Christmas Miracle for Daisy and A Kismet Christmas! I think she's adorable!
DeleteThe picture above is very un-Corey Sevier like.
ReplyDeleteIt would look like 3 of the 4 Hallmark movies are about single parents.
That's not very balanced - Florence
I’m looking forward to Destined at Christmas mostly because, as I’ve mentioned before, two of my very dear friends are the leads. I was also looking forward to Kris Polaha’s movie because he’s a favorite, but some of the pictures looked like there could be questionable content. I hope I’m wrong about that.
ReplyDeleteWe Wish a Married Christmas
DeleteI think it’s a family owns motel with Alpacas where’s Kristoffer & Marisol’s staying in Gracious, Vermont where’s Kristoffer dresses as a scrooge
What’s the Difference Between Llamas and Alpacas
Llamas and alpacas have been used by humans for transportation and fleece production for a few thousand years. Both species are primarily found in Peru and Bolivia and are part of the camel family, Camelidae. Alpacas and llamas are two of the four lamoid species—the other two species, vicuña and guanaco, are their wild cousins. Interestingly, all four species are able to interbreed and create fertile offspring. While often conflated, alpacas and llamas differ in key ways. The most-distinguishing physical differences between alpacas and llamas are their size, their hair, and their face shapes. Also, they differ in disposition, which affects the way humans have used them over the years.
Destined At Christmas was absolutely delightful. Sadly my suspicions about We Wish You A Married Christmas were correct. When they get to the inn at the very beginning one of the owners introduces himself and then says “and this is my husband….” I turned it off and deleted it after that.
DeleteWe thought Destined at Christmas was delightful too. We also agree with you about We Wish You A Married Christmas. We turned it off at the same time you did and also deleted it from our DVR. Disappointed with Hallmark.
DeleteDestined at Christmas is at the top of my watch list. I'll also check out We need a Little Christmas simply because it's the 1st new HMM movie of the Season. -Maria
ReplyDeleteThose are my picks too. CJ
DeleteI can't believe it's already time! I'll read comments and happily watch any Hallmark/HMM movie that no one else says they plan to watch and review. I appreciate the reviews from everyone else here so much--it would be such a chore to watch every single movie while on edge, not knowing if it's family-friendly or not! Merry Christmas, all!
ReplyDelete~Alicia
Noel Next Door
ReplyDeleteI check TV Guide says so
A single Mother gets into a war of words with an irritable neighbor who is ruining Christmas, only to find that this misunderstood Grinch is the msn who has stolen her heart. Based on the book “How the Grinch Stole My Heart” by Annabelle Costa
Net, thank you for this great guide to the new Christmas movies this weekend and the UP movie review. That sounds terrible how they made fun of praying. I'm skipping that one.
ReplyDeleteThanks Net for the warning on a couple of these films. That really helps. Natalie's movie looks good. I always enjoyed her.
ReplyDeleteNoel Next Door
ReplyDeleteWhat’s the heck misspelled book author’s last name; Costa on “Noel Next Door”, open credits? Annabelle Costas instead Costa
Based on Upon a book “How the Grinch Who Stole My Heart”, by Annabelle Costas
“How the Grinch Who Stole My Heart” by Annabelle Costa
Didn't watch Noel Next Door, but from reading a few Tweets, I heard that it went political by saying that the earth is flat and that conspiracy theorists are awful people.
ReplyDeleteI definitely recommend skipping this one. -Maria
I thought that those comments were uncalled for too. Hallmark seems like they always have to show they are woke. I am definitely skipping Jodie Sweeten movie because she believes abortion can happen any time before the baby is born. I am so happy GAC is making Christmas movies.
DeleteThanks to Anonymous for sharing that “Noel Next Door” is based on a book. I appreciate in advance, anyone who may come across that kind of information for future movies and shares it.
ReplyDelete"Noel Next Door" -- Sort of family-friendly. Not best for younger viewers, as adultery is the reason for Noel's divorce, there's a scene involving a box of tampons, and grumpy neighbor eases his frustration with a bottle of booze. The storyline had some plot bumps and sharp turns that really needed smoothing, as well as jumping quickly between very serious and goofy, leaving me feeling a bit of whiplash. There were some sweet parts that I liked, for sure, even though I probably won't watch again.
ReplyDelete~Alicia
Wow, there are way too many (and varied!) reviews on here for this Noel Next Door movie. Net, you've got your work cut out for you this season!! Bless you, girl!!
DeleteI'm not going to leave a review, but just say that basically I agree with Alicia's notes. The movie had some cute parts but it wasn't a keeper for me. As a raging Conservative, I chose not to be an offended snowflake about some of the little woke jabs at conservatives (I mean, seriously, it wouldn't be Hollywood otherwise!); I'm just thankful there was no gay/trans agenda in the movie and it was basically family friendly other than what Alicia mentioned. (Also, the boy, for the most part, redeemed himself in this movie but, overall, I'm sad to see the way children are portrayed in a lot of the movies nowadays. They're often very disrespectful to parents and adults and they seem to be running the show instead of the other way around.)
Also, just discovered on my FrndlyTV app subscription that Hallmark is already running a round-the-clock Happy & Friends Yule Log Channel. Some of it is Christmas and some of it has an Autumn/Thanksgiving theme. I did a search on my Verizon cable and there isn't a specific channel there that you can turn to but it is available for free if you search for Yule Log (I guess it's On Demand, whatever that is? :)).
~~Jane
p.s. - At first, I actually thought it WAS Matt Walsh in the movie doing a cameo as a sort of refreshing, tongue-in-cheek, laugh at all the woke, "misinformation", silliness in these movies. Ah, silly me for thinking Hollywood could actually have any self-awareness! I love Matt and now I'm curious if he'll mention all this on one of his shows this week on the Daily Wire?
Delete~~Jane
Jane, Thank you for mentioning the Happy & Friends Yule Log Channel... I'm definitely going to see if I can locate it through my Roku.
DeleteAlso, do you like Frndly TV? I was thinking of purchasing it for November & December to record some of the overflow of Christmas movies, but hadn't made my mind up, yet. If there continues to be a lot of movies we need to skip, then it might not be necessary.
I did Frndly TV as a treat at Christmas time last year, and I really liked the easy DVR and 72-hour look back features. My only complaint was that the movie playback had glitches. I know it was a flaw in the actual data Frndly was providing, rather than my internet being goofy, because I actually re-watched recorded parts and the glitches were in the exact same moments! It was enough to annoy me, but, then again, perhaps it was just growing pains as Frndly was gaining so many subscribers at the time. Have movies streamed smoothly for you, Jane?
Delete~Alicia
I have Frndly TV and the only part that annoys me is when fast-forwarding through commericals you have to watch the time to guess when to stop. It isn't like YouTube TV that you just click through and can see what you are skipping. Other than that, I've had no issues. If you have a movie that is really glitching, you can talk to them through customer service on the app and they will upload a new copy for you. I did have that happen one time a year ago. They are super helpful with their service and great to work with! Jennifer R
DeleteFor the most part, I like FrndlyTV. I bought the most expensive package (maybe $9-12/month?) so I have unlimited dvr space and movies stay on there for 9 months. (I also have top package with Verizon cable so I can keep quite a large amount on there, as well.) I was mainly using Frndly to record GAC Family movies since Verizon cut them from the lineup; but Frndly has all of the other tv channels so I could just as easily use it for Hallmark or Lifetime or UP or BYU or Insp. All of my tv's are HD quality but just not "smart", so I was running an hdmi cable with an adapter to my iPad to watch movies. That worked okay but last week I bought Roku sticks for all the tv's so now I don't have to run a cable to watch FrndlyTV, which is very nice! In the past two weeks I just powered through all the movies from Spring & Summer that were on the dvr and so far I have only had one instance of the glitching that you mention, Alicia. The only thing I don't like is the fast forward capability. With cable it's very easy to fast forward through commercials, but with Frndly I haven't figured out a non-clunky way to do it, even with the Roku remote. Hopefully I can figure out a better way to do it, but as of right now I just have to keep hitting the button repeatedly to skip slowly through the commercials ten seconds at a time since I can't find a place in settings to change that (or with the Roku remote sometimes it skips too far ahead - but I'm still on a learning curve with that one!). Overall, I've been pleased with FrndlyTv and last Christmas when I was in and out of the hospital and missed the chance to pre-program my dvr the 72 hour look back feature came in handy.
Delete~~Jane
Jane, Alicia, and Jennifer... Thank you, ladies, for this wonderful information on FrndlyTV.
DeleteAlicia, I appreciate your info on the glitches. I'm wondering if my Wi-Fi will be strong enough.
Jennifer R, I love your tip on contacting customer service if I have a problem and they will reload the program. That is valuable info to have!
Jane, That is wonderful how the 72 hour look back was helpful to you. I love that feature, especially, if I realize a day later or more that I missed something. That would be extra nice to be able to go back.
Again, thank you all... I'm probably go to look into it more in November - as my DVR gets even fuller! :)
Looking forward to watching this season of movies.
ReplyDeleted
Noel Next Door is family friendly.. It’s based on the book called; “How the Grinch Who Stole My Heart”, by Annabelle Costa. Jeremy met Noelle where’s Noelle works as a waitress & they across the same path. They live in neighborhood. Noelle’s name on her apron where she works. Jeremy is a grinchy neighbor & He meets Noelle’s Son named Henry who plays soccer against the wall of house for many times. Jeremy stole Noelle’s heart & they spend more times together. Henry calls Jeremy Geier Scrooge because he’s grinch but he turns out that he’s a nice guy. He owes Jeremy an apologize at his own faults because Jeremy is telling the truth to Henry’s Mom; Noelle. Jeremy is listening orchestra on his turntable for records. Noelle asks Jeremy why he hates Christmas because Jeremy had a stoke & he lost his Wife for 3 years. Although it’s been a lonely day!!! Jeremy & Henry play soccer ⚽️ . Jeremy gets Henry & Noelle Christmas gifts 🎁 when Noelle asks him for coming Christmas Morning. He has 1 more surprise for people by Christmas tree. Jeremy, Noelle, Henry, & others attending orchestra in concert. Jeremy will teach Henry chorus when he, Noelle, Henry will get home from concert.
ReplyDeleteWe weren't sure whether we should watch "Noel Next Door" since we weren't sure if it was family-friendly, but we took a chance. I was on edge the entire time, afraid they would slip something in that wasn't right. Sure enough, they let us down. The movie was laced with liberal, woke vibes, & was poking fun at "conspiracy theorists" & talked about someone spreading "misinformation" & being banned from social media! Seriously? Could they have been any more obvious in their disdain for conservatives & those who don't buy into their lies & woke agenda? They even chose an actor who looks exactly like Matt Walsh, (a very conservative talk show host with the Daily Wire.) It was sickening to see how blatant they were about it. There was also a disgusting scene where the lead actress was standing in a store aisle holding a box of tampons!! Again, seriously, Hallmark? So tacky, such poor taste, & so off-putting! Other than the lead male actor, the acting wasn't the best, & I just really wish we hadn't wasted our time & regret giving them a view. Hallmark has completely lost their way.
ReplyDeleteI'm okay with these movies as long as they don't slip in same-sex relationships. At this point I understand our feeling about wokeness and distain for conservatives. I too seem to have a heightened awareness of these things in shows these days.
DeleteI thought the same thing the actor looked like Matt Walsh. They ruined what could have been a really good movie with five minutes of woke nonsense. I think I am going to skip all Hallmark movies because it is not worth watching a Christmas movie waiting for some woke nonsense to be slipped in.
DeleteI agree, Ken. Even if any did interest me, Hallmark in general just disgusts me.
DeleteI watched Noel Next Door and it was alright. What I didn't care for was the lying of Noelle's son Henry. At least he apologized to Grinch Jeremy at the end.
DeleteCould someone reviewing Destined At Christmas please mention whether the leading man has been married before - there's no mention of who the young girl is in the preview?
ReplyDeleteThanks - Florence
The young girl plays his daughter and is his daughter in real life. He’s a friend of mine as is the leading lady (her husband is in a singing group with Casey). I hope you can see this video of Casey and his daughter talking about the movie: https://fb.watch/gk60TSWLgN/
DeleteThanks for the info.
DeleteSadly I thought that might be the case.
That's another one off my viewing list.
Anonymous, thank you for mentioning that your friends are all in a singing group because it piqued my interest. After watching Destined at Christmas (and liking it!) I decided to do some online snooping. Well, I guess I have been living in a bubble. How had I not heard of the group, Gentri, before? So, if anyone wants to watch & listen to some fabulous Christmas music videos here are links to O Holy Night and The Little Drummer Boy -- both are excellent!!
Deletehttps://gentrimusic.com/home/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g4fvMgNfN0I
~~Jane
p.s. - Florence, you poor thing. Here's hoping you find some good movies with lead characters who aren't divorced or widowed!
Jane, Yes! Casey Elliott has such an incredible voice. I first learned about it this summer when his movie, "Retreat to Paradise," premiered on Great American Family. Someone mentioned around that time that they hoped he would be singing in his Christmas movie and that piqued my interest, so I did a little digging, too. He also sings many great hits solo on his instagram, which is also fantastic. Here's one of my favorites:
Deletehttps://www.instagram.com/p/CidVyLag2io/?hl=en
It is too bad he didn't get a chance to sing somewhere in "Destined at Christmas." That could've been great.
Also, in case you hadn't heard this fun fact: Shae Robbins (who played, Kim, Casey's opposite in "Destined at Christmas") is actually married to the musician, Brad Robins, who also is in the same singing group, Gentri, with Casey! Isn't that something?
If you or anyone else is interested, the group Gentri has a lot of upcoming concert dates on their web-site to promote their new Christmas album.
https://gentrimusic.com/
I think they would be awesome to see/hear in person! :)
Should be Shae *Robins* above
DeleteThis was family friendly even though the hunt was long & tiresome.
DeleteReview: Noel Next Door
ReplyDeleteFamily-friendly? Yes
Keeper? Yes
And we're off and running with the new Christmas movie season...and I am happy to say that, after the disappointing movies that premiered in July, we are off to a good start here! I enjoyed Noel Next Door mainly because of how good-natured it is. It's not too often we have a lead character who is handicapped and whose love interest treats the person with such warmth and kindness! Corey was really great in this role - you could sympathize with his suffering - and the chemistry between him and Natalie seemed right on! I agree that Natalie's son seems to old for the role, and he is not likeable at first, being a brat and a liar, but at least he redeems himself in the end. There is a scene where Corey hits the bottle, but the scene fits. For me, the movie is definitely worth at least one viewing.
Mark 25, this movie wasn't a keeper for me, but I agree with much of what you noted. I loved that Corey portrayed someone who had had a stroke and was having a hard time dealing with all the many physical and emotional facets of that situation (and who wasn't the usual "Hallmark-perfect" character!). His portrayal seemed, for the most part, real and natural (as opposed to Hallmark trying to hit us over the head with their lesson on the right way we should all view and treat anyone with any type of challenge or handicap or disability!). I also loved how Natalie treated him with warmth and kindness and offered help when needed, but didn't make a huge deal over his situation. For me, this movie had flaws which took it off my keeper list; but as you said, it also had a "good-natured" feel about it.
Delete~~Jane
"We Wish You a Married Christmas" -- Not family-friendly. A gay couple owns the inn.
ReplyDeleteI was soooo disappointed in this movie. I knew it was going to have drama because of a troubled marriage, but a gay couple. As much as I love Kris I had to delete this movie.
DeleteUnfortunately, according to what I just read. The folks on here who were getting a bad feeling after looking at the photos for We wish you a Married Christmas were right: There's a gay couple in this movie. -Maria
ReplyDeleteWe Wish You a Married Christmas is not family friendly. Greenbrae Inn: Resturant & Cafe. Robby & Becca take a advice from their marriage coach. A Marriage therapist or Counselor hands a travel magazine to Rebecca to go to Gracious, Vermont with her Husband; Robby & their dog named Jerry. A couple meet the owner of Greenbrae Inn; Vince & his Husband named Brian. The ornament falls on the car shield. Robby & Becca own their dog named Jerry. Their marriage problem could be fix because of they’re still family. Becca gets present for Robby of a portrait of their dog; Jerry until they’re back together. The couple at Greenbrae Inn that when the ornament falls on the car shield too
ReplyDeleteJust watched GAC Destined at Christmas ver nice story. It reminded me of Hallmark movies 5 years ago. It was family friendly.
ReplyDeleteDestined at Christmas is family friendly. The movie is delightful. After Dr. Kim French & Theo Hall meet in the midst of Black Friday shopping madness when the store blackout just before dawn. When there’s spark in between Kim & Theo but they get separated due to panic while they’re searching everywhere when they attempt to find each other? They doesn’t forget each other to try to search information. Ashley is at the Dinosaur museum with their classmate where Kim works as a paleontologist. They across same path as their families, Ashley’s Aunt Clarissa & Uncle Hunter search their Niece as Kim finds Ashley at the playground unless her Aunt & Uncle look everywhere for her. Kim’s family & her friend’s family are attending Christmas Carol when Kim’s Mom hands an extra tickets to Theo & his Daughter named Ashley. Kim’s friend tells Kim he’s a carpentry is Theo. The Families & Zack are attending Christmas Festival in the middle of the night. Ashley tells her Dad, Theo that she’s Dinosaur Lady is Kim who works at Dinosaur Museum. Ashley runs toward to Kim & her Dad, Theo follows his Daughter, Ashley to find Kim. Ashley tells Kim that she’s with her Dad. Theo & Kim look everywhere that night. Kim us searching for Theo during daytime. Theo gets his Daughter; Ashley a triceratops ornament to put on Christmas tree. Ashley wants to be a Paleontologist just like Dr. Kim French. Theo & Kim introduce each other again with Ashley. One year later, the family celebrates Christmas. Hunter & Clarissa are having a baby so, Ashley will become Cousin when she thinks it’s a girl. They named their Daughter; Victoria “Vicki” Hall. Ashley hands her Dad’s gift to Kim & Kim’s gift to her Dad, Theo. She hands Christmas gifts each other.
ReplyDeleteWe need a little Christmas is a winner! Bit sad, yet hopeful, very touching, and best of all, clean! I 100% recommend this movie. -Maria
ReplyDeleteWe Need a Little Christmas is family friendly. A single Mother named Julie develops an expected friendship with an older neighbor named Peter. She has a Son named Gavin. Peter’s Brother served in Ajr Force. Irene’s Grandson named Miles. Irene & Gavin make special memories chest just like her Grandson Miles’ memories chest too. Julie gets Peter’s Christmas gift a clock. Julie doesn’t have love interest. Peter brings Irene’s Grandson home because it’s weather delayed. Irene & her Grandson reunited. Miles says new friends bring him him home to his Grandma Irene. Irene introduces Gavin to her Grandson; Miles
ReplyDeleteDestined at Christmas was so lovely! And the ads with Candace in them were also really sweet. -Maria
ReplyDeleteWe Wish You A Married Christmas is not family friendly. So disappointed but not surprised. I was expecting this as they pushed the movie so hard. Turned it off after about 15 minutes. That was hard for me as I am a huge Kristoffer Polaha fan!!
ReplyDeleteThat's too bad as I do like Kristoffer Polaha too. I guess there is a reason he didn't move over to Great American Family.
DeleteJoyce & Jennifer, I'm also disheartened over this news of Kristoffer Polaha's movie. When I first had a hunch this might be a possibility, I thought surely not because of how much Kris has expressed his faith on social media, but sadly, he made this choice. I know we're all feeling a bit crushed.
DeleteWatched We Need A Little Christmas and thankful Hallmark didn’t ruin it. Was family friendly if you consider we all deal with loss at some point. Only disappointment was that it would have been a great opportunity to include faith and Gods help when dealing with loss. Some may feel it was too deep, but Christmas time is hard for a lot of people, but I thought it was dealt with with respect, especially from a child’s perspective.
ReplyDeleteI thought that We Need a Little Christmas was very good. Julie and Irene are widowed.
ReplyDeleteI didn't see all of We wish you a Married Christmas but what I saw looked terrible.
ReplyDeleteReview: Destined at Christmas
ReplyDeleteFamily-friendly? Yes
Keeper? Borderline...no
I am probably in the minority here, because yes, this is a very cute movie with the two leads doing a great job in their roles! And I like the plot about the characters trying to find each other. But...the fact that there were just so many - so many! - near misses in hooking up made the storyline just too unbelievable. (In fact, at one point I said out loud to the TV, "okay, this is ridiculous!" Yes, I talk to the TV!) While obviously we have to forgo some sense of reality with these movies, this one just went too far for me. Oh well...
Mark 25, I agree with you. The missing each other went on much too long which made the movie tiring. Not a keeper for me!
DeleteMark 25 & Kitkat...I just watched this movie "Destined at Christmas". I agree with you both. The TON of near misses drove me bonkers. It actually made me start to feel anxious...haha. Cute movie but oh my!! Drove me nuts!
DeleteWe Need a Little Christmas is family friendly. A single Mother named Julie who faces her first Christmas with her Son named Gavin without her Husband. She develops an unexpected friendship with her older next neighbor named Irene. Julie & Nadine work at Sticks + Stones. Although Julie meets Peter who works his family Italian Restaurant called; The Old Place. Peter is Julie’s client for renovation his restaurant. Gavin meets Irene at Campsite where she works. Irene’s Grandson named Miles works as military doctor at base camp. He plans to visit his Grandma Irene just before Christmas but he doesn’t come home for Christmas. Irene has treasure chest for her Daughter & her Son in Law who served in military & her Grandson’s Memory Chest. Peter’s Brother served Air Force in military & also Irene’s Grandson; Miles. Peter has open house at The Old Place, Peter introduces Julie some people to become her clients to have their business cards. Peter & Julie make phone call some people for Miles’ homecoming for Christmas. Peter mentions Cargo Company to allow Miles to come home Christmas unless Julie asks Peter calls Miles & Julie gets boarding pass for Miles when the weather delay where the plane lands when it’s reroute. Peter gonna pick Miles up there where the plane land for Christmas on Christmas Eve. Gavin hands his Mom; Julie a memory chest because she saves it for Christmas morning but Irene tells Julie to open it - could makes Julie cries. Irene looks surprise her Grandson Miles comes home for Christmas with help some new friends when Irene looks up to Peter & Julie. Julie says with help all clients. When Julie hands her Client Peter her Christmas gift but Peter doesn’t have any gift for her until he opens the gift it’s a clock that he’s overwhelmed. They’re all eating dinner.
ReplyDeleteThe movie I am looking forward seeing next weekend is A Cozy Christmas Inn. Which is a sequel to Christmas Under Wraps. Christmas Under Wraps with Candace Cameron Bure is one of my favorite Hallmark Christmas movies of all time.
ReplyDeleteI would have looked forward to this movie but it seems Andy and Lauren didnt work out, so I will skip. Christmas Under Wraps is one of my favorites too, and the highest rated HM movie, but i am not sure why they had to ruin the story by making a part 2 with no Dr Brunell and it appears Andy has another love.
DeleteSabrina
I agree with Sabrina. I'd like to leave it as Andy and Lauren living happily ever after. It seems like it may be a direct hit to CBB leaving that they'd mess with her most popular movie.
DeleteSabrina, No, Andy doesn’t have another love. Erika was Andy’s ex before Dr. Lauren Burnell arrived to Garland, Alaska when Andy moved with his family to Alaska in Garland. Andy owed Bed & Breakfast Inn
DeleteOk, so is this movie before he meets Dr Lauren Brunell? It seems as though he and lauren are no longer together and his ex comes back and he doesnt even work at Holliday shipping, but some inn. there are even Hattie remarks. And of course, thats Garland for you.
DeleteSabrina
No, Erika is Andy’s ex before when Andy’s family moved to Garland, Alaska.. Dr. Lauren Burnell’s boss sent Lauren to Garland, Alaska. Andy met Dr. Lauren Burnell in Garland, Alaska where’s he works at Holliday Shipping at his family company. Lauren stays at Andy’s Bed & Breakfast Inn. Andy & Lauren forever. Real Estate Executive Erika MacNicoll’s Boss hands Erika a magazine of Garland, Alaska & she travels Alaska during the Holidays to acquire a Bed & Breakfast Inn when she discovers B&B owned by her ex boyfriend; Andy Holliday. B&B didn’t have cooking faculties. There’s some logical explanation what’s happen to Lauren; i think Andy will tell Erika about Lauren. I’m not so sure if Andy & Lauren have children on their own.
DeleteAndy (David O'Donnell) may rethink selling his family's inn when he's reunited with ex Erika (Jodie Sweetin), but will he rethink their romance, too? Find out in the all new "A Cozy Christmas Inn"!
DeleteAfter this weekend, I told my husband our DVR will not be so full after all. Thank goodness for GACF saving my weekend with their movies from last year and new premier I saw, Destined At Christmas. It was a beautiful story in several ways. I will be checking here for reviews and watching GACF in peace, along with the oldies but goodies. Friends, keep peace and love in your heart this Season. Have a blessed one! He is the reason!
ReplyDeleteThis is really hard to understand but I can only see one way this movie will develop.
DeleteThe only explanation for Lauren's departure which would I would even remotely accept is if she had sadly passed away although it wouldn't be to my taste.
The storyline has knocked the heart out of me but I have to admit I want to see what transpires - Florence
Sabrina and Florence... Part of me is curious about A Cozy Christmas Inn and the other part thinks this will surely be like watching a train wreck. I can't even imagine how this can possibly be good.
DeleteI mean... IF (and yes, that's a big IF) Erika is Andy's ex/former girlfriend before he meets Lauren, then we already know their love story ends sadly. How fun is that to watch???
Well put - it's a lose-lose situation - Florence
DeleteSad to say Kristoffer's film had a gay couple. Didn't bother watching the rest. Too bad, because I've always loved his movies.
ReplyDeleteVery happy to hear Natalie Hall's movie is clean. I'll watch it soon! Thanks Mark 25!
Also, about non-family friendly things... Just thought I would warn you. Disney just released a statement saying, starting this summer 2023. There will be a LGBTQ character in each one they make. So glad I discontinued Disney+. Sticking to the DVDs.
A Kismet Christmas - I found it to be family friendly. I’m not a believer in the whole magical Christmas cookie thing, but it was still cute. The father of the little girl is divorced, by the way. Allie B
ReplyDeleteNet, just curious, do you think Hallmark really cares about what we think. Just glad to know I’m not only one to feel the way I do about how far things have gone in just a short few years.
ReplyDeleteJoCo, That is an excellent question. Based on the direction they keep going, it appears they think very little of those of us who hold certain standards and values. As long as their ratings are good, then I'm sure they'll keep doing what they are doing.
DeleteOf all the movies i tried watching this weekend, I liked Kismet Christmas the best. Was not a fan of Noel i didnt even watch it all, it was drabby, boring, and I guess HM's new theme in movies for the year is people that are divorced. And she even called her ex's new girl a "mistress" at least twice that i heard.
ReplyDeleteThe We wish you a married christmas, i watched it, it was ok. Glad someone finally didnt get divorced, but if you thought this one didnt contain divorce, oh it did, the girl that painted the animal portraits, just went thru a terrible divorce. I get it, people get divorced, but it is not something i want to hear in every single happy christmas movie.
Kismet Christmas, did have a divorce, if counting 3rd movie in a row, but I kind of figured that was coming since he married a woman when he probably loved Sarah. And they didnt dwell on it, and there were no "mistresses". I loved the actress Sarah Ramos, she was a good addition to HM. Loved the girl Jazzy too, I always cringe when i see child actors cause some of them are just way to over the top, but she was great and this movie was great, I kept and will watch again. It was a bit rushed at the end making the kismet cookies and i was like when are we going to get to the kismet cookies and it wasnt til the last 5 mins or so. But it was a great movie.
Still need to watch destined at Christmas and We need a little Christmas. Not watching Cozy Christmas Inn this friday as I am always going to leave it that Andy and Lauren got married and are happy in Garland and Frank is still with Rudy and Andy will take over for Frank at Holliday shipping someday soon. No need to ruin it with Andy and his new love. Not really interested in Jolly Good Christmas either, I dont know, falling for the personal shopper is just overdone.
Sabrina
"Destined at Christmas" won my optimistic, romantic heart over! The movie's concept was more unique than the typical romantic-comedy. I love that these two people, Kim and Theo, met by happenstance while doing some early shopping on Black Friday. It was also fun to get a taste of Thanksgiving weekend – as the family discussed eating leftovers. I thought Kim and Theo’s individual searches for one another were fun throughout the movie, and I personally loved all of the close-calls; however, I would’ve liked just a little more time seeing them actually together at the end. My only real qualm was that Kim never really finalized things with her ex-boyfriend, and (*SPOILER ALERT*) knowing he was standing there at the end when Theo and she finally met again, felt a little awkward. (*SPOILER END*) Overall, though, this was such a delightful, feel good movie, a wonderful start to the second Great American Christmas season! I will look forward to watching encore airings, especially as we get closer and closer to Black Friday! ~Net
ReplyDeleteSo happy to see the good reviews on Kismet Christmas. I recorded it and will watch tonight.
ReplyDeleteA Kismet Christmas is family friendly. Sarah Grace Collins is a children book author. She is book storyteller at the bookstore. She lives with her Grandma Mia while confronting a legend that may actually come true is a magical Kismet Christmas Cookies according to Helen it’s actually work because Sarah made Kismet Christmas Cookies are true love kinds unless Jasmine “Jazzy” Walker overheard them talking when Sarah discovers her family legend might come true. Jazzy & her Dad, go Scavenger Hunt with photographs taken. Sarah read a book called; “A Winkle in Time” They keep saying it’s work because of Kismet Christmas Cookies. Jazzy puts Kismet Cookie with a wrap under the pillow on Dad’s bed. Travis finds under the pillow is Kimet cookie with gift wrap. If Sarah asks Travis dreamt about her but he doesn’t matter what dreams of. Sarah & her family have family recipe of Kismet Christmas Cookies recipe in the cubby. When Sarah makes Kismet Cookies by using a family recipe?
ReplyDeleteWow, I'm so happy to see all these reviews for the weekend's movies! Isn't it interesting how we all have different likes and dislikes? I'm looking forward to watching the ones I missed after learning from you all that they're family-friendly. Thanks to everyone for taking the time to share!
ReplyDelete~Alicia
Alicia, I wholehearted agree! I'm so grateful for this It's a Wonderful Movie family. I could hardly believe the amount of incredible movie reviews I received over the weekend, including yours! I was nearly in tears thinking about how you all are such a blessing to so many who visit here.
DeleteGod bless you!!! :)
A Kismet Christmas was really sweet. I enjoyed everything about it. What impressed me most is in the beginning it wasn't like they had always loved each other but they were very good childhood friends. There was time getting to know each other again and falling in love. It wasn't a rushed relationship. A gradual growing is much more realistic.
ReplyDeleteJane, I loved your comment on We Need a Little Christmas, especially where you describe a typical Hallmark movie - so true! Yes, this was definitely not your usual Christmas movie. It was not what I expected, but I enjoyed it nevertheless. I loved the black lady in the cast - she has such a warmth about her and a great smile! But tell me - is there another Hallmark Christmas movie where the two lead characters do not kiss at the end?? Anyway, I liked it, but undecided about keeping it.
ReplyDeleteMark 25, I'm horrible at remembering movies, but I'm wondering if there IS another Hallmark Christmas movie without the big kiss at the end??? I bet Net or some of the other folks on this blog would know. In "We Need a Little Christmas" I felt a kiss would have been premature as she was still healing and they were still getting to know one another. But in my imagination they definitely had a happily ever after and a passionate kiss in their future! I, too, loved the neighbor lady and I thought the little boy was quite believable in his role.
Delete~~Jane
Jane and Mark 25,
DeleteIt is definitely rare these days for a Hallmark movie to end without a kiss, but two movies came to mind for me...
The first one is "A Grandpa for Christmas," with Ernest Borgnine. What an excellent movie, and there's actually no romantic storyline in it at all, which is even more unusual.
The second movie I thought of was "A Journey Back to Christmas," with Candace Cameron Bure. When she is reunited with her husband at the end they do embrace, but there is no kiss. I always wondered why they made that decision.
Anyway, that's the two that came to mind for me. Do you know any others, Mark?
Expect for One Summer, there’s no kiss at the end of the movie
DeleteMikki & Liam
Jack & Janna
Only Jack decreased Wife Lizzie kissed Jack
Starring Sam Page, Sarah Drew
Net, I just went back and checked the ending of A Journey Back to Christmas - you are right! In my mind they had kissed at the end, and it looks like they were about to, but the movie ended before any kiss. I can't think of any other movies at the moment, but now when I watch older ones I will have to pay attention!
DeleteThere’s no kiss at the end of the movies
DeleteKC Clyde & Kristy Swenson as Joe Hopkins & Martha Evans in A Christmas Wish (2011)
Tyron Leitso & Erika Christensen as Cole & Bailey in My Boyfriends’ Dogs (2014)
Tyron Leitso & Lacey Chabert as Ben Matthews & Hanna Dunbar in Family for Christmas (2015)
Thank you, Anonymous. I don't recall seeing the first two you mention, and it has been awhile since I've seen Family for Christmas. But let me say, I sure wish I had your memory! :)
DeleteMark25, Martha’s car broke down. Martha Evans is with her Stepson named Miles Evans & two Daughters named Mel & Lilee Evans were abandoned by her Husband( Cal Evans. They find by a local sheriff Joe Hopkins. Martha leaves town hoping to find a job & a place to stay, and she finally finds a job at a sleepy rural diner once famous for its homemade root beer. The town has Root Beer Restaurant where Martha works there near a local church. Martha wants her Stepson; Miles stays with her & her Daughters as a family.
DeleteSomewhat Timeless Love & Family for Christmas look familiar but the movies are different. The families didn’t exist at all!!!
Mark25, My Boyfriends’ Dogs, Bailey in wedding gown ends up as runaway bride & retells stories to owners of a small Diner in rainy night in flashbacks, 3 dogs from her boyfriends: Adam - golden retriever, Eve - Dalmatian, & Shirley - Shih Tzu until Cole overheard Bailey’s stories. While searching Mr. Right - he has beagle, Cole & Bailey with 3 dogs walking when he put his jacket on Bailey in the night
DeleteI watched Star-Crossed Romance and agreed with all your comments. While it had some cute moments, it was a strange mishmash overall. That drama teacher was so odd and kind of creepy. And the rather gothic vibe of their Romeo and Juliet production bothered me, especially the big red glowing crosses at the end which seemed very gothic. And the makeup on her son bothered me, as again it seemed very gothic. I wouldn’t recommend this one for kids, and regret watching it myself.
ReplyDeleteDeborah, I'm glad to hear you felt the same way, and I appreciate you mentioning the stage scenery at the end. I watched on my IPad and didn't notice that detail as much as would have - had I watched on TV. The play gave me a bad vibe anyway.
DeleteThank you so much for sharing. I posted your review on the UPtv October movie post here:
https://itsawonderfulmovie.blogspot.com/2022/09/uptv-has-5-new-october-2022-tv-movie.html
I just finished watching all the Christmas movies I recorded last weekend. A Kismet Christmas was a playful surprise. Any storyline involving books or a bookstore gets my attention. I really like having the children in the movies. This is another family friendly movie that I'd watch again. - Mary
ReplyDelete