dear "It's a Wonderful Movie"
Family and Friends!
What a meaningful time it is to express our gratitude to the Lord above for our many blessings over this Thanksgiving holiday.
Words truly cannot express how thankful I am for all of you, dear friends, who take time out of your busy days to come and visit here at It's a Wonderful Movie and share with all of us!
Our homes may be far apart, but our hearts are as close as always... as we celebrate the joys of the holidays and Christmas season together!
See below for all of the details for the NEW Christmas movies being served during this Thanksgiving week and weekend. I look forward to hearing your thoughts on them!
Wednesday, November 27, 2024:
Storyline: Emily (Hemmens) is always reluctant to return home to her family’s animal rescue ranch -- but when her mother passes away, her brother Nick requests her help organizing the annual Christmas Carnival. When she arrives, she discovers Nick’s friend, Luke (Grazzini), staying at the ranch -- and that Luke was once a successful artist who works with light. Though initially reluctant to collaborate, Emily and Luke work hard to pull off the best, most light-filled carnival the town has ever seen, a healing celebration of Emily’s mother’s legacy and the magic of Christmas -- and along the way feel sparks of romance as radiant as the lights themselves.
Premieres Wednesday, November 27, 2024
at 8pm/7c. on Hallmark Mystery
Thursday, November 28, 2024:
Thanksgiving Special
98th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade
The 98th Annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade will be telecast on NBC from 8:30 a.m. to Noon in all time zones on Thursday, November 28,2024. The event will also simulstream on Peacock, and Fubo subscribers will also be able to watch it. An encore on some NBC stations will follow at 2 p.m. ET/PT. (check your local listings)
The 2024 parade will include 22 giant balloons, 34 floats, 11 marching bands, 11 perfomance groups, and 28 performers, including: Idina Menzel, Jennifer Hudson, Joey McIntyre (of New Kids on the Block), The Temptations, Walker Hayes, The War and Treaty, and more!
And speaking of parades, if you'd also like to see Hallmark's best classic movie (in my opinion) about the Thanksgiving Day Parade, be sure to watch Love at the Thanksgiving Day Parade this Saturday at 4pm/3c. on Hallmark Family!
Thursday, November 28, 2024:
Special Commercial Free Presentation
Storyline: I Heard the Bells is the inspiring, true story behind the beloved Christmas carol and the song’s author, America’s beloved poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Known as America’s Poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow leads an idyllic life…until the day his world is shattered by tragedy. With a nation divided by Civil War and his family torn apart, Henry puts down his pen, silenced by grief. But it’s the sound of Christmas morning that reignites the poet’s lost voice as he discovers the resounding hope of rekindled faith.
Special Commercial Free Presentation
Premieres Thursday, November 28, 2024
at 8pm/7c. on Great American Family
Thursday, November 28, 2024:
Storyline: Three adult siblings (Lamothe-Kipnes, Dowden, Lloyd-Jones) return to their childhood home at Christmas to honor their late grandmother's wishes and try to agree on new leadership for the family's company. Enter Annie Merkel (Boston) - also known as Mrs. Miracle - who poses as an estate planner and uses her special brand of Christmas magic to help the family find common ground and rekindle their bonds. As the siblings try to sort things out, Charlotte (Lamothe-Kipnes) also finds herself reconnecting with Austin (Novlan), the manor's caretaker and her first love.
Premieres Thursday, November 28, 2024
at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel
Friday, November 29, 2024:
Storyline: With only the internet, a plane ticket and a lifelong determination to find her birth family Chelsea travels to royal hamlet, Havenshire, at Christmas. Along the way, Chelsea sneaks into a castle, teaches a stubborn Prince how to dance, and looks to be in the perfect place when the bells toll Christmas Eve.
Premieres Friday, November 29, 2024
at 8pm/7c. on Great American Family
Friday, November 29, 2024:
Storyline: Workaholic lawyer Lucy Miller (Bourne) is celebrating her promotion alone on Christmas Eve when a mysterious rideshare experience transports her back to 1999. Reliving the holiday with her mom, sister and best friend - not to mention her high school crush - Lucy gets a second chance to understand where her relationships went wrong. Will this magical journey help her rewrite her future or leave her destined to be alone?
Premieres Friday, November 29, 2024
at 6pm/5c. on the Hallmark Channel
Friday, November 29, 2024:
Storyline: Rose (Greene) is a Chicago-based interior designer, whose brother Sal (Pellegrino) is responsible for a Christmas Charity House Flip back in their suburban Ohio hometown. When a budget crisis puts this important project in danger, Rose reluctantly returns during the holidays to try to save the day. Not ready to face the ghosts of her past, Rose's plan is to get in, get it done, and get out ASAP. But before she knows it, she is face-to-face with Brysen (Brown), her brother's best friend, contractor and who just so happens to be the bane of Rose's youth. With the help of friends and family, and buoyed by the season of giving, the trio figures out a way to work together for this worthy cause. As Rose works, she discovers unexpected love and deeper purpose along the way.
Premieres Friday, November 29, 2024
at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel
Saturday, November 30, 2024:
Storyline: When a down-on-his luck confidential informant in a criminal investigation suddenly goes missing, a desperate young federal agent recruits his doppelgänger to play the role.
Premieres Saturday, November 30, 2024
at 7pm/6c. on UPtv
Saturday, November 30, 2024:
Encore Presentation
Storyline: I Heard the Bells is the inspiring, true story behind the beloved Christmas carol and the song’s author, America’s beloved poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Known as America’s Poet, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow leads an idyllic life…until the day his world is shattered by tragedy. With a nation divided by Civil War and his family torn apart, Henry puts down his pen, silenced by grief. But it’s the sound of Christmas morning that reignites the poet’s lost voice as he discovers the resounding hope of rekindled faith.
Encore Presentation
Saturday, November 30, 2024
at 8pm/7c. on Great American Family
Saturday, November 30, 2024:
Storyline: Santa is back to help a couple solve a mystery and find romance. Zoey’s wish to produce the perfect Christmas Festival becomes difficult when she clashes with partner Dalton while suspicious things happen that could to stop the festival.
Premieres Saturday, November 30, 2024
at 9pm/8c. on PixL TV
Saturday, November 30, 2024:
Storyline: When Beatrice (Ory) reluctantly joins her best friend on a trip to the enchanting Christmasland, she's skeptical of the holiday magic surrounding them. But as she experiences festive traditions and meets a charming stranger named Ethan (Reardon), she begins to question what's real and what's part of the experience. In the end, Christmasland helps Beatrice rediscover hope, love, and the magic of new beginnings.
Premieres Saturday, November 30, 2024
at 6pm/5c. on the Hallmark Channel
Saturday, November 30, 2024:
Storyline: Alana Higman (King) is sure that her family's lifelong history as Kansas City Chiefs superfans makes them a frontrunner to win the team's "Fan of the Year" contest. Derrick (Hynes), Director of Fan Engagement, is tasked with evaluating how Alana and her family stack up against the other two finalists. As the pair spends time together, it's clear there's a spark between them but when her grandfather's (Begley Jr.) vintage Chiefs good-luck winter hat goes missing, Alana begins to doubt everything she believed about fate, destiny and even questions her future with Derrick - unless, that is, a little Christmas magic can throw a Hail Mary. *Features cameos by Kansas City Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid; Chiefs Players Trey Smith, Mecole Hardman Jr., Clyde Edwards-Helaire and George Karlaftis;; Donna Kelce; Jenna Bush Hager
Premieres Saturday, November 30, 2024
at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel
Saturday, November 30, 2024:
Storyline: In BeBe Winans’ We Three Kings, Bebe plays Lincoln, retired musician turned record store owner, and proud father to the three King sisters, Lydia (Lisa Berry), Gracie (Faith Wright) and Abigail (Bethany Brown). For the first time since their mother’s death, the three estranged King sisters return home for the holidays. Lincoln hatches a plan with family friend, Genelle (Deborah Joy Winans) to bring his girls back together again this Christmas. Living under the same roof and hearing their father sing joyful Christmas melodies sparks old family memories. Holiday love songs and mistletoe are found around every corner, and the sisters end up finding love in the very town they tried so hard to leave behind. It isn't long before the sisters face the facts; life's better when they are together.
Premieres Saturday, November 30, 2024
at 8pm/7c. on Lifetime
Sunday, December 1, 2024:
Storyline: Katie’s family’s horse sanctuary is on the brink of closure, but in a last-ditch effort to raise the money, Katie must coax her reclusive grandfather, Bluegrass legend Ben Pendleton, back onto the stage for a Christmas benefit concert.
Premieres Sunday, December 1, 2024
at 7pm/6c. on UPtv
Sunday, December 1, 2024:
Storyline: Inspired by her father's acclaimed legacy in dog sled racing, Anya (Matula) decides to follow in his footsteps. After his passing, she heads to Finland to participate in the 40th annual Joulurauha race, her father's final race where he fell short of the victory. Following an injury to her lead dog during the qualifying race, Anya finds herself partnered with a new canine companion owned by journalist and former racer Cole, (Mirchoff) who aims to pen a story about her journey. Struggling to build trust with her new dog and facing her father's rival, Monty, (Páll Sigþór Pálsson, Mr. Murphy) Anya must navigate many challenges as she strives to win the race.
Premieres Sunday, December 1, 2024
at 6pm/5c. on the Hallmark Channel
Sunday, December 1, 2024:
Storyline: An archeologist (Chabert) and her ex-husband (Polaha), an expert in ancient Norse languages, are sent to Iceland at Christmastime to search for the legendary treasure of the Yule Lads. When others join in the hunt, the pair find themselves swept into a thrilling adventure as they race to keep it from falling into the wrong hands.
Premieres Sunday, December 1, 2024
at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel
Sunday, December 1, 2024:
Storyline: Two former childhood friends reunite after a beloved family members passes, leaving the future of his magical maple sugar farm in their hands.
Premieres Sunday, December 1, 2024
at 8pm/7c. on Great American Family
Sunday, December 1, 2024:
Storyline: With Christmas fast approaching, Leslie (Vivica A. Fox), known for her expertise in all things domestic and top lifestyle brands, is looking to expand her business. She sets her sights on the bakery, Sugar Bakers, owned by Denise Sugarbaker (Jackée Harry) and run by her son, David (Landon Moss). Determined to make a deal before the end of the year, Leslie sends one of her top employees, Emma (Jasmine Aivaliotis), to go undercover as a seasonal employee in order to convince them to sell. Emma unexpectedly finds herself falling in love with the quaint bakery with its Christmas spirit, staff and especially, David. 'Tis the Season to make or bake Christmas and discover everything sweet during the holidays, including love.
Premieres Sunday, December 1, 2024
at 8pm/7c. on Lifetime
Sunday, December 1, 2024:
Storyline: When Grace’s former crush comes home for Christmas, her best friend tries to play matchmaker by hiring her to decorate the house he plans to sell.
Premieres Sunday, December 1, 2024
at 7pm/6c. on the CW
Savor this Thanksgiving week, everyone! I'm looking forward to having Thanksgiving dinner with my precious family, playing games, chatting, cooking and baking (of course, lots of that!), and simply sharing time, memories, and laughter together.
I pray you make many wonderful, cherished memories with your family and friends!
You all are in my heart and prayers all year, but especially during this special, holy season. Your friendship is such a gift!
Please note: I haven't pre-screened the new movies listed above. If you'd like to post a review on whether a film is family-friendly, please share in comments.
Visit the *Christmas TV Schedule* for the dates and times of NEW Christmas movies.
You can find the 2024 Christmas Movie Review post *here*.
Have a truly Happy Thanksgiving!
God bless us, Everyone!
Net
🌟 SHINING HIS LIGHT 🌟
Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the Lord is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations.
~Psalm 100:4-5
The week I look forward to and dread the most, this is just too many new movies at once!!
ReplyDeleteObviously, GAF's newbies are at the top of my list. Hallmark, I''ll try to get to most of them, just don't expect it to be quick with each one.
Happy Thanksgiving! -Maria
I am looking forward to some of the movies. I think I will skip the one re: the Kansas City Chiefs and the one with the married Meghan Ory and her husband in real life John Reardon.
ReplyDeleteHave a wonderful and blessed Thanksgiving, everyone! So much to be thankful for!
ReplyDeleteJust can't getbused to anyone except Doris Roberts as Mrs Miracle.
ReplyDeleteThe last few movies of this line=up looks superb. , The Finnish Line
Holiday Touchdowm, A Bluegrass Christmas, The Finnish Line and The Christmas Quest could be crackers.
A 90's Christmas could go either way bbrilliant or meh.
We always save two movies to watch onChristmas Day -based on the general reacyio to them - 'Twas The Daye Before Christmas is already being kept back this year, good chance one of the aforementioned will be the second.
Happy Holiday - Florence
Thank you for this wonderful Guide! Wishing you and everyone here a Blessed Thanksgiving!
ReplyDeleteI’m thankful for this site and all the nice people here. Christie
ReplyDeleteHappy Thanksgiving Everyone! What Movies are you looking forward seeing this weekend
ReplyDeleteI'd been so sure i wont be watching any movie this week before i read this article. 🤣 So, i definitely will be watching Deck the Walls, Believe in Christmas and The Christmas Quest. Maybe also Holiday Touchdown and The Finnish Line, but i'm still not sure.
ReplyDeleteChristmas Under the Lights is clean and quite sweet in some parts. -Maria
ReplyDeleteAnd there's a Niall Matter sighting at the end too! -Maria
DeleteHey everyone, Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I am so thankful for the community here and how with the crazy world we live in, there is still places like this where we can come and encourage each other and chat about our love for God and movies. Wow what a weekend for movies, 15!???! First of all, I am with you Florence, I cannot get used to Mrs Miracle without Doris Roberts…..it’s funny to think she is the same lady from Everybody Loves Raymond Lol. So for this weekend's movies I will only be recording about half, the other half done seem interesting to me but I could be wrong….if a review comes out that says otherwise I’ll give them a chance. I really wish there were some holiday mystery ones. Those UPtv mystery ones from the past couple weeks (missing Diamond one, missing dog one) were TERRIBLE….I couldn’t even make it past 15 minutes with the acting, music, the over the top dramatics….I might just do the 7 day trial on hallmark + so that I can watch some mysteries I saw on there, the ones with Sara drew and some new Aurora Teagarden ones.
ReplyDelete~Paula
Happy Thanksgiving!
ReplyDeleteThe CW will be airing Operation Mistletoe on Dec 1st. -Maria
ReplyDeleteWhat? Really? That's an amazing news. Thank you, Maria.
DeleteMaria, I just wanted to add here in comments, too, how much I appreciate your movie reviews and your scoop here on finding Operation Mistletoe on the CW!
DeleteI know many here have expressed to me how much they appreciate your tips on what movies are good and well... not so good!
Hope you are having a relaxing Thanksgiving weekend! :)
Blessings, Net
You're very welcome! I really took 2 for the team last night with those awful Hallmark movies. Hopefully I have better luck with Believe in Christmas later. -Maria
DeleteThank you Maria! Because of you, I was able to watch Operation Mistletoe last night.
DeleteYou're very welcome, kitkat! -Maria
DeleteHappy Thanksgiving, Net! Thankful for all that you do🌻🥰
ReplyDelete~Kaitlyn
Happy Thanksgiving to my It’s a Wonderful Movie family!! I praise God for our friendship and hope everyone here has a very blessed day today!!
ReplyDelete98th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
ReplyDeleteI saw Jonathan Bennett & Ginna Claire Mason on Hallmark Channel Float with Dan + Shay
Joyful Mrs. Miracle is an excellent movie!! -Maria
ReplyDeleteI Heard the Bells is incredible!! -Maria
ReplyDeleteI hope everyone here had a great Thanksgiving! We have a lot of choices for movie watching this weekend. I hope the ones I want to see are family friendly! I hope to watch: A 90's Christmas; Deck the Walls; Believe in Christmas; The Christmas Quest and Home Sweet Home. The Finnish Line might be ok, but I'm not real fond of any kind of animal competition. So will probably skip that one! Happy watching everyone!
ReplyDeleteI’m watching The Wizard of (1939) on TBS - November 29, 2024
ReplyDeleteCheck your local listings
A 90s Christmas is not family friendly. (I left details on a different page, but just wanted to post here in case no one saw that post.) ~~Jane
ReplyDelete(I sat through this abomination so you wouldn't have to): No, as you can guess very early on in the movie, Deck the Walls is dirty. (if the man sounds gay, he's obviously gay without having to say it!). -Maria
ReplyDeleteA 90’s Christmas is not family friendly. Gay receptionist, gay sister, didn’t get far watching it at all.
ReplyDeleteF night for Hallmark, as BOTH new movies ended up being dirty! (90's Christmas has yes, another gay man at the start of the movie saying he has a boyfriend!). Hope you all appreciate me finding this all out for you! -Maria
ReplyDeleteA Cinderella Christmas Ball is absolutely spectacular!! -Maria
ReplyDeleteCurrently watching Believe in Christmas. So far family friendly but at about 42 minutes singing Go Tell it on the Mountain and they changed the words to It's Christmas Morn, when it is Jesus Christ is born. Sad to take Jesus out when He is the reason for the season. They could have picked a different song.
ReplyDeleteWow! That makes me mad! Jesus IS the reason for the season. No matter how hard they try to take Him out or change it, He will still be the entire reason we have Christmas. They will find out one day soon! -Anonymous1
DeleteAs ridiculous Believe in Christmas is, it's a clean movie, so that makes it a winner! -Maria
ReplyDeleteWe Three Kings is amazing!! Highly recommend. -Maria
ReplyDeleteHope everyone had a blessed Thanksgiving💞💞
ReplyDeleteAside from Lacey and Taylor's movies, and a few more- None compares to my excitement of waiting for
I Heard the Bells-
Mr. Longfellow is one of my favorite authors!!
Casting Crowns sings my favorite version🎵🎵
This movie was Extraordinary in everyway, Bravo to All involved with this Masterpiece of film...
Can't watch this till tomorrow night (too many other things recording at once), but I'm hearing Erin Cahill has a cameo in The Christmas Quest. -Maria
ReplyDeleteThe Finnish Line is clean and quite the adventure. -Maria
ReplyDeleteHome Sweet Christmas is soooo amazing!! -Maria
ReplyDeleteMake or bake Christmas is clean(save for 1 swear word). -Maria
ReplyDeleteThe following movies brought me joy or moved me.
ReplyDelete“I Heard the Bells” – I don’t even know where to begin! What a powerful movie this was!! I did not know Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s backstory. What a profound message of faith, finding your way back to God and eternal love. My husband and I both bawled like babies! As much as we enjoyed, “A Reason for the Season’, “I Heard the Bells” is now my favorite movie of this Christmas Season. This was a spectacular movie!
“CHRISTMAS BY CANDLELIGHT” – This movie was cute.
“A COZY CHRISTMAS QUILT” – I enjoyed this sweet, gentle movie. The lead actress was seriously adorable, and I liked her in the lead role.
The following movies either I did not watch or did not enjoy or did not love.
ReplyDelete“Deck the Walls” and “A 90’s Christmas” – I immediately deleted both movies, from my DVR, after reading reviews. I refuse to invest in any movie that is not clean.
“A CHRISTMAS LESS TRAVELED” – I so wanted to love this movie but found it slow. I hope to come back to it later at some point.
“Christmas Under the Lights” – To me, this movie went nowhere. I stopped watching after 15 minutes.
“A Prince and Pauper Christmas” – Seriously boring movie. I stopped watching after 10 minutes.
“Debbie Macomber's Joyful Mrs. Miracle” – This was another ‘fail’ for me. Oh my gosh, Rachel was over the top! I wanted to tell her to ‘step away from the espresso!’. I deleted this movie after about 10 minutes of watching Rachel and the siblings fighting.
“A LITTLE WOMEN’S CHRISTMAS” – Overall, this movie disappointed me. It had some really great parts but overall, it fell flat. I can’t quite put my finger on it, but I didn’t love it. It was a one-time watch for me this Christmas season.
“To Have and to Holiday” - This was a one-time watch as well.
Joan, I love your reviews and I often agree with you; thank you for posting them. I am very much looking forward to watching "I Heard the Bells" and I'm glad you enjoyed it!! I tend to save the good movies for last and watch the ones I think will be mediocre first so that I can clear space on my dvr. And don't you just love deleting some of these at the 10 minute mark and making room on your dvr!! That feels so refreshing! There are so many better things to do in life than watch a movie you're not enjoying!! ~~Jane
DeleteHi Jane! Aw you are so sweet! Thank you for the kind words. You made me smile this morning while I am drinking my coffee! I always enjoy your reviews as well. I get a kick out of your 'nicknames'! 😊 ♥ So cute. And, yes, we do tend to agree on which movies are good and which ones aren't. Also, it does feel so great to delete bad movies, after just a few minutes, from my dvr! Life is too short to waste it on bad, boring, or not clean movies. I want to be entertained! Anyway, thanks again for the kind words.
DeleteThere are way too many movies on my DVR, so I am only going to watch “A Cinderella Christmas Ball”, “BeBe Winans’ We Three Kings”, “A Christmas Quest” and “Home Sweet Christmas”.
ReplyDeleteHome Sweet Christmas is a truly amazing movie. It's like a warm blanket, a fireplace, a cup of hot cocoa with marshmallows. Warm, cosy and sweet. Candace and Cameron were so great together, they had such a big chemistry. Watching the movie, I forgot about everything and I didn't want it to end. I guess I will watch it again and again just to feel this heartwarming atmosphere.
ReplyDelete*Oksanka*
Oksanka, I can't wait to watch this movie and feel all the warm, cosy sweetness that you describe!! ~~Jane
DeleteReview: Believe in Christmas -
ReplyDeleteFamily-friendly? Yes -
Recommend? Nope -
Five years ago there was a Christmas film called "A Christmas Movie Christmas" that was about a young lady who was an absolute lover of Christmas movies, and wishes she could live in one, and her friend who was just the opposite. For me it was a wonderful spoof of the stereotypical Hallmark movie, super-funny, and as a result one of my all-time favorites. This movie reminded me of that one - one person loves those movies and wants to be in one, and the other who absolutely does not - but this one doesn't work at all!
First of all, the acting. I never thought that Meghan Ory was that good of an actress, and, well, she's not good here. I so enjoyed John Reardon in A Christmas Secret, but here it seems like he is on auto-pilot. Very lackadaisical! And even though these two are married in real life, I just did not sense any chemistry between the two of them! On the other hand, the actress Lindura who portrayed her friend was excellent, and I hope someone puts her in a leading role soon!
The other thing was the storyline. I mean (Spoiler Alert), nothing says Christmas spirit like having the town's residents deceive its guests and lie to their faces (there's that theme again!) in order to get them to appreciate the season! And throughout the movie the feelings of Meghan and John toward each other seemed to change with the wind, which makes you question their sincerity towards each other. So, no, this movie is a definite skip it!
Mark 25, I could only make it halfway through this one but from what I saw, I completely agree with you. The acting felt blah and the romantic feelings just weren't there. The whole thing felt really odd, to me; I found no true Christmas warmth in Christmasland. But, I agree that the actress that played the friend, Emilia, was quite good. And I'm trying to remember if I've ever seen "A Christmas Movie Christmas". I don't think so? I'll have to check to see if they're doing any re-runs on cable. ~~Jane-gle Bells
DeleteA Cinderella Christmas ball is family friendly. I enjoyed this movie and I would watch it again. A chiefs love story is family friendly, and I think it’s worth the watch.
ReplyDeleteI don’t recommend a 90s Christmas, or Deck the Walls, super disappointing. Elizbeth
Elzbeth, Thank you for sharing these nice movie reviews with us!
DeleteI believe these are your first reviews here. Welcome! :)
The Christmas Quest is a clean and very wonderful adventure! -Maria
ReplyDeleteReview: The Christmas Quest -
ReplyDeleteFamily-friendly? Yes -
Recommend? Maybe for a one-time watch -
Indiana Jones meets a Hallmark movie. I have to admit, this is an original plot with Lacey and Kristoffer following clues to find the Treasure of the Yule Lads. These two leads are among my favorites, and they do a great job here, and even though they play exes, you can feel that chemistry is still there. But unfortunately, I couldn't get swept up in this adventure. The storyline was too contrived, and it was ridiculous how quickly they were able to solve each clue that lead them to the next one. Also, some of the playful banter just didn't fit in with the serious tone of the adventure. Maybe it's worth a watch just to see these two great actors work together, but for me, that would be the only reason.
"Indiana Jones meets Hallmark" 🤣🤣 ~~Jane
DeleteMark 25 - Thank you for this great review. I haven't seen "The Christmas Quest," yet, but I've been wondering since Kristoffer is in "Pearl in Paradise," is this movie a lot like that?? Minus, of course, the awesome chemistry he has in "Pearl" with Jill Wagner.
DeleteNow that we are past the halfway point of the new Christmas movies this season, if I may, I would to share a few personal observations:
ReplyDelete* For some reason, the number of Christmas reviews seems to have dropped from last year. This year, if I counted correctly, the movie with the most reviews is 'Twas the Date Before Christmas with 10. Last year, 'Twas the Text Before Christmas has 23. Last year's popular A Biltmore Christmas had 15. This year's highly anticipated A Little Women's Christmas has 5. I'm not sure why the drop, but maybe it is because...
* ...the quality of the movies has been disappointing overall. I know I am leaving many more neutral or negative reviews than positive ones this year. And I am still waiting for a big "Wow!" movie for the season. Does anybody else feel the same way?
* Jane, unfortunately I don't think our recommendations have made much of a difference. I am still seeing a lot of "Anonymous" comments rather than ones signed with some name. And I am still sensing that some reviews are based on the network and/or actors involved without regard to the movie itself. (In fact, one recent comment praised a movie that hasn't even premiered yet because it is on GAF and because of the actors involved!)
* That said, it is nice to see that so many of us "regulars" from the past are still around and hopefully will be for many more years!
Anyway, that's my one-and-a-half cents worth! And as always, thanks Net for the wonderful job you do!
My two cents now:
Delete*People are either busy or burnt out. This is a lot of movies to get through! I started a new show today because I just didn't want to watch any movies today.
*Review shortage doesn't change the fact that ALWC is the best movie of this Season.
*Quality? Not sure there, only that GAF is still miles ahead of Hallmark there.
*I sometimes use my Google name by accident. And I don't know if the comment reference is from me, but at least with GAF you know it won't be a dirty movie UNLIKE with Hallmark! And they are 100% GOOD movies!
*Aw, thanks! I love this place! -Maria
Mark, Thank you so much for your kind words and sharing your thoughts on the reviews.
DeleteI just added to the Movie Review Page 50+ more reviews that just came in over the weekend, so the list of movie reviews is growing! And I'm so grateful and thankful to every single person who takes time out of this busy holiday season to participate.
Also, each year I've done the Movie Review page, I've encouraged people to leave some sort of name, initials, nickname, or something, but you're right, every year we always have anonymous reviews. That's okay, though, I'm also glad for their participation and maybe one day they will share sort of identifying name with us.
I'm also, as you mentioned, delighted to see so many regulars continue to contribute and as December rolls on, perhaps... hopefully, we will see more! I think with the less days between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year, there's more pressure to squeeze various holiday events into our schedule, but I hope many can still sit back, relax, and enjoy one or more of these movies.
Anyway, I always appreciate and look forward to hearing your refreshing take on the movies, Mark! I know you'll always give it to me straight.
Blessings to you, my friend! Net :)
Mark 25, Here’s my half a sense (hah! I should correct that to read “cent”, but I’m thinking “sense” fits me better right now!). I think I’m behind this year in reviews for a couple of reasons – I just have way too much going on in life this year, and I’m not really in the Christmassy mood yet, plus most of these movies aren’t really thrilling me, so I’ve been reading more books! Also, this year I’m feeling more drained and these mediocre movies kind of just drag me down even more. 😊 It’s one of the reasons I’ve been trying out different, silly names on all my reviews -- I need something to keep me entertained! Plus, I’m hoping sweet Alicia gets a smile if she reads them and it makes her feel just a smidgen better.
DeleteI usually save the best movies for last (which means I don’t get to the good ones until January!). Therefore, every year, the beginning of the season is filled with movies that I think might be more "meh", just so that I can get them off my dvr. I’m thinking I probably should change my viewing habits and start watching the better ones early in the season so that I’m more in the Christmas mood!! 🎄
And you know what, Mark? I actually feel like we are seeing some new-ish names on reviews this year (unless they happen to be old-timers that I simply forgot about?). At least a few, like Anna and Elizbeth and Christie and Grace and I think there’s one other person I forgot? (I hope I don’t offend anyone by calling them “new”, if they’ve actually been around here for awhile; just blame it on my foggy brain! And, besides, I’ve only been participating for maybe just 5-7 years? I think the first year or two I may have just read reviews and not said anything – hard to believe since I’m so vocal now! Hah!) There aren’t an excess of new reviewers, but I do really appreciate the new “signed” reviews from those folks. Thank you, ladies!! It takes time to write a review, and with people’s busy schedules, I value even a quickie thought or impression on wholesomeness and entertainment value. And it helps to find others that share your taste in movies, so that you can quickly decide what to watch, especially when you only have limited viewing time.
And, thank you, Net, for giving us all a place to share our thoughts and reviews, where we know that even if we have different opinions on movies, we are still amongst caring friends and family!!! You are the sweetest, most diplomatic person, ever!! 😊 And I imagine you must be overwhelmed right now with keeping everything going smoothly on your site; I wish I could help you somehow.
And, Maria, that’s funny that you mentioned sometimes using your Google account. You and Florence both do that and I think old-timers on here know it’s you NCISGirl. 😊
~~Jane (Jane-gling all the way in my sleigh!!)
Mark,
DeleteI am one that sees who is in a movie and just crosses it off. There are just way too many movies. Its overwhelming and if first off I do not care for the actors, it goes off the list to record. Sometimes, it does happen that in Christmas in July, I end up seeing a movie or 2 that I thought I wouldn't like and liked it, but that happens very rarely now.
There isn't a thing in the world that would get me to watch the chiefs movie or other kelce family movies, sorry. I am a big football fan, play in multiple leagues, and I am not and never have been a chiefs fan. I will not jump on the bandwagon ever.
When there is so much other stuff on tv, I would rather watch Home Alone for the 200th time than Ms Miracle with RB, a movie that from the preview looks so over the top.
I tried watching Santa Tell me, actors/actress I do not care for, and i just couldnt finish.
I am not a fan of home improvement show hallmark movies. So that knocks several off. Nor do I like a failing or struggling musician./actress comes home and the love interest doesn't recognize him or her. Also not a fan of the traveling to other countries movies.
I am not a fan and havent watched a new royal movie in years.
Holiday Baking Championship is on now. Its 2 hours many weeks and I watch that over any hallmark stuff. I love turning on the tv and just having the nostalgic christmas movies on. Christmas Vacation, Home Alone, had on Planes trains and automobiles too. Uncle Buck came on after Christmas vacation last night.
That being said, I do have many on the dvr that I do want to actually sit down and watch. It is hard to find time to sit and watch. Little women, finnish line, both CCB movies, Believe in christmas, Operation Mistletoe. I will watch eventually.
I just feel Hallmark is no longer a priority or even ranks very high in my life. Its unfortunate. I am sure they love all their new fans, the ones that don't know the good older movies. The ones that did not get them to where they are. They got their new taylor swift, kelce, chiefs fans and likely they do not have the fans me and others used to be, that wouldn't miss a hallmark sat night movie. And live tweet.
Unfortunately, while I love GAF, the movies are just not that good. Not enough to even write about. I did watch Jill wagner movie, but it was boring.
I did watch the 90's Christmas movie. I just wanted to see how it ended. I liked how it ended and really did enjoy most of the story. I wanted to see if the 90's references were off or bad, but someone actually did their research and it was good. I kept feeling they were trying to make chandler Dawson from dawsons creek. But there was no climbing in windows , though Eva did look somewhat like Joey from DC. But that was the style. What I really liked was the family, and how they did come together to support each other. Eva's character could see her mom struggling and realized she didn't see it before and she didn't even see her own grief and just ran away. I liked the ending a lot. Glad it didn't end how some movies like that do, that she had to go back to real time and then go seek chandler.
Whats sad, is that I do not remember a single characters name in most movies. I have to refer to them as the actors name. That says a lot.
Just too many movies. But I did enjoy the Trivia at St Nicks this year. Will try and watch others.
HMM, thats always my go to, but sorry, these movies are extra depressing. And not to be rude, but I just do not want to watch another autism movie. No alcoholic movies, no repeat actors in the same type movies. No more chocolate stores in belgium going out of business and guy doing it they fall for.
Just my 2 cents, well as long as my post, my million dollars worth. When I would rather watch Clark griswold for the millionth time, its not good for HM or GAF.
Sabrina
Maria, Thank you so much for your sweet comment, "*Aw, thanks! I love this place!" That brings a smile to my face and such joy to my heart!
DeleteYou made such wonderful points with your statements, and I hope many will still feel they can come and leave a review any time - for any of the movies that premiered this year.
You have likely contributed the most reviews this year here at It's a Wonderful Movie, and for that, I know I am and MANY others are so truly grateful!!!!!! Bless you for that.
But, I understand if you need a little break. With the many Christmas movies you watch, they must start blending all together. I've been trying to watch the new ones a little slower, trying to savor them a little longer.
Jane, Thank you for always adding a bit of fun and whimsy to your comments...
DeleteI'm still thinking about the review you left for "A Vintage Christmas," where you said, "This one didn’t knock my elf off the shelf." Just thinking about your comment, totally cracks me up! And... you are so right on that review!
And, I loved that you mentioned one of my favorite moments in "A Christmas Castle Proposal," when Rhiannon Fish freezes her face during a zoom call. That was so clever and funny! Rhiannon does comedy so well. I love that you mentioned it, and every time I see that scene now, I think of you! :)
I believe I mentioned this to you last year (or the year before??? cuz, we've been friends forever now, right?) that I also like to save the best for last... just like you!!! I mean sometimes it works out and then sometimes one of them that you think won't be so great, ends up being a winner.
Also, you are the sweetest! I love that you mentioned that you are writing your reviews in the hopes that it puts a smile on Alicia's face. Those words choked me up. That is so beautiful, Jane. Hopefully, Alicia will see this. Hugs and blessings to you both!!! :)
Sabrina, I hear ya! I often love to switch over to Home Alone, Lampoons, or the Kranks... there's something so warm and familiar about those movies... the music, the characters, the lines I know by heart. It's peaceful and soothing just to have one of them playing in the background as I'm busy throughout the day.
DeleteAs for the new movies, it's been hit and mostly miss for me this year, so far. I've seen a few good ones, but the great category has been pretty lonely this year. But there's room for improvement, and I'm sooo hoping to add Brooke D'Orsay's Day Spring movie to that list! :)
Thanks Net! It feels great to get to provide assurance to everyone who visits and relies on this site. And I'm on a bit of a mini break from the movies. :) -Maria
DeleteSabrina, I'm very much like this too! There are way too many movies for me to watch them all (even into the new year), so if I see one where the plot doesn't seem interesting, and/or it has an actor that I don't care for or am not familiar with, I usually won't bother. (But I may change my mind if there are a lot of positive reviews here for it.) For example, I too am skipping Holiday Touchdown because of the Kelce's. And like you, I feel the older Hallmark movies are generally better than the newer ones.
DeleteSo, I guess just to be clear to everyone , my gripe is not about someone not watching a movie. It is about someone reviewing a movie and giving it a "thumbs up" or "thumbs down" solely because of the network it is on or who is in it, without any regard to the movie itself. As you pointed out Sabrina, not every GAF movie is a good one and not every Jill Wagner movie is a good one.
Sabrina (aka Toasty Buffalo Plaid Christmas Mittens!), I am totally with you on watching Clark Griswold and Cousin Eddie for at least a million times. That’s some seriously funny entertainment! ~~Jane
DeleteMark 25, I had intended to mention in my previous reply how much I appreciate your reviews!! You seem to be a natural wordsmith, but even so, it takes time to carefully articulate your thoughts and put them down in a way that is helpful for others who are trying to make decisions on which movies to watch. And you always include enough good details to make those decisions easier for us. Please know, I appreciate your reviews (and the fact that you sign them 😂)!! ~~Jane (fellow old-timer still hangin’ in there)
DeleteMark, I have really appreciated your Reviews, and all others. You are right, I see the reviews and it makes me want to watch.
DeleteI didn't want to watch A Carol for Two, mostly cause I am just not into the NY dancer stuff, Rockettes, whomever. I am not a fan of Broadway type stuff or movies they sing thru. And it seems this actress got typecast in the same movies for HM (rockettes and broadway). But cause of all your reviews, I did record it to watch.
I see what you mean Mark, I do not only give a movie a thumbs down cause of the actors/actresses. There are many I haven't been a fan of, but did like the movies. I am going to try and watch some more and give reviews.
Super excited for Let it Snow on GAF. Maybe they can get Christmas Under Wraps too. Or Moonlight and Mistletoe that they do not ever play.
I have been meaning to put my dvd collection of the Christmas Shoes movies on. I know I will cry. I love that movie and the Christmas Blessing. They are so sad. But so good.
Sabrina (Toasty Buffalo Plaid Christmas Mittens). I did get my buffalo plaid shower curtain and I love it.
Awww, Jingle Jane-gles, thank you so much for your kind words, it really means a lot to me! But I don't certainly see myself as a natural wordsmith. I constantly edit my reviews before I post them, and then frequently I later wish I had rephrased something or clarified something. Anyway, I am so glad you appreciate my reviews, and let me return the complement - I love how detailed (and oftentimes humorous) your reviews are, and I definitely rely on them! And more often than not we are in agreement regarding the movies! Thanks again my (old-time) friend!
DeleteSabrina (aka Toasty Buffalo Plaid Christmas Mittens), thank you for your kind words! I am glad my reviews can be helpful to you! And like you, I know I will be tuning in to watch some good Christmas oldies this season!
DeleteWe were up at the farm for Thanksgiving so I am behind in movie watching. Hope everyone here had an enjoyable Thanksgiving with family and friends.
ReplyDeleteI Heard The Bells is my favorite Christmas movie thus far. What a soul stirring message! This movie stayed with me for hours after watching it.
kitkat, Oh, I hope you had a lovely Thanksgiving with your family at the farm. Thank you for this wonderful review! :)
DeleteI really enjoyed The Finnish Line. Kim Matula has quickly become one of my favorites in Hallmark Christmas movies.The chemistry was slow to develop with her co-star Beau Mirchoff, but when it started to take off it took off fast. They shared some witty and fun dialogue at moment. Nichole Sakura as her best friend Elyse is terrific and funny and not once said to her friend "you have to out yourself out there." A win in my book. I've enjoyed many of the Hallmark movies over the last few years that give a look into other country's traditions. This is a keeper for me.
ReplyDeleteKeith, Thank you for sharing this awesome review with us. I don't think we've had many for this one, so it's good to hear how much you like it!
DeleteBy the way, I've liked Kim's previous movies, too, so I will look forward to this! :)
Hi Keith and Net,
DeleteI am looking forward to this movie as well. Kim has quickly become one of my favorite Hallmark actresses. It is on my DVR and it is on my list next to watch. :-)
“We Three Kings” – What a journey this movie led me and my husband on! It was an emotional rollercoaster of feelings, but I have to say it was so worth it. At times, I was left speechless. And at other times, I was smiling and then I was crying like a baby. There was nothing ‘false’ or ‘pretentious’ at any time nor were there wasted scenes. The acting was spectacular. The music was moving, and the storyline resonated deeply with both me and my husband. It is difficult dealing with loss for those left behind especially when the person who passed was ‘the glue that held the family together’. As well as the ‘North Star’ who guided them throughout their lives. I can’t imagine a better ending than what I witnessed on the tv screen. Seriously this was such a beautiful movie! Everyone associated with the movie should feel proud of the fact they were part of such an exquisite film. This is another movie I highly recommend and one I will be buying when it comes out on DVD. Overall, the quality of movies, this Christmas season hasn’t been the best. In my humble opinion, there are only a handful of movies, that have been truly great. “A Reason for the Season”, “Under the Northern Lights”, “I Heard the Bells”, “A Cinderella Christmas Ball” and “Twas the Date Before Christmas” were my favorites so far this year. But, after watching “We Three Kings”, I now have a new #1 favorite! I am still thinking about the movie the morning after and I am replaying so many scenes in my head as I write my review.
ReplyDeleteJoan, I'm so glad you shared this! I've been hearing nice things about this movie, so it's good to know you also enjoyed it. I just checked, and I have it recorded.
DeleteThank you for also sharing your top picks... so far. Many of the Christmas movies you mentioned, are also at the top of my list this year, too! :)
Hi Net,
DeleteYou are welcome. I am glad you and I like the same movies. :-) I truly hope you enjoy this movie as much as I did. BTW - The movie title was perfect! On another note: a movie critic, shared an interesting observation in his review of "We Three Kings". He said "It is a rare Christmas movie singing moment that is worthy of a concert". I couldn't agree more! The Winans family is very talented. I cherish any moment when I hear Christmas songs that are sung so beautifully.
"A Cinderella Christmas Ball" - no words to describe how much I enjoyed it! It stands out among the royal movies. Danica was just outstanding in her role, so genuine, so true. And Oliver Rice was just the best choice for her partner. Together they've created such an amazing love story. I also liked the journey of searching the father and bringing the subject of foster care and adoption. On my list of favourite Christmas movies.
ReplyDelete*Oksanka*
Oksanka, What a blessing it is to hear from you and receive this lovely review! I, too, thought this movie was extra special. I'm so glad to read your review and know that you agree! :)
DeleteSo glad it made your favorites list!!!
Hi Net,
ReplyDeleteI am slowly but surely getting through my Christmas movies. Here is my latest review of the movie we watched last night. “The Finnish Line” – Aw this movie was magical! I enjoyed everything about it. It was sweet, funny, and heartfelt and I liked watching a unique storyline. Kim continues to be one of my favorite actresses. She is so engaging, and she draws me in quickly with her wit and charm. I absolutely adore her! But she is also adept at pulling my heartstrings like she did in one scene in particular. Plus, she and Beau had palpable chemistry. Bonus points to the location. The setting, of the movie, was gorgeous. Also, the acting was good overall by everyone involved. I got a kick out of the relationship between Kim and her friend. And also liked the relationship between her cousin and her friend. I definitely recommend this movie.
Today we are watching "“Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story” and this weekend we are going to watch "A Christmas Quest" and "A Home Sweet Christmas".
A Cinderella Christmas Ball is the best Danica movie I have ever seen. She and Oliver are perfect together. I have watched it twice. One of my favorites for 2024!
ReplyDeleteHi everyone!
ReplyDeleteI only have one more Christmas movie, to watch from the Thanksgiving Holiday weekend, that I wanted to see.
“Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story” – So, I was honestly prepared not to like this movie. But it pleasantly surprised me. It wasn’t just about Hunter and Tyler. The core of the movie was about family and most importantly about her grandparents. The ending was bittersweet and made me tear up.
“A Bluegrass Christmas” – My husband and I enjoyed this quiet little film. Good music and realistic relationships and a decent storyline kept our attention.
ReplyDelete“The Christmas Quest” – I honestly had mixed feelings about this one. It was definitely nice to watch a movie that was a departure from the same trite storylines. Lacey and Kristoffer definitely had great chemistry. I felt their longing when they looked at each other and they did a good job of making me believe they were together in a previous relationship. There were some cool twists thrown in. The scenery was breathtaking and always give bonus points when a movie is set in a location where they actually filmed it! But I wasn’t crazy about the ending. I can’t quite put my finger on it but I wanted more. I do want to mention how much I like Kristoffer as an actor. In my humble opinion, I believe he would have been a movie star in the 1940’s. He has that ‘Jimmy Stewart/Cary Grant’ vibe which is one reason why “A Biltmore Christmas” is such a wonderful and enchanting film. He was perfect as the lead! Anyway, I digress. Overall, I did enjoy the movie but like I said, I would have preferred a different ending.
ReplyDelete“Operation Mistletoe” – This movie disappointed us. We normally enjoy anything Jen is in but not this one. We did not finish the movie.
ReplyDeleteJoan, Just curious... I haven't seen "Operation Mistletoe," yet. Did you not finish based on the content, or did it simply just not interest you?
DeleteHi Net,
DeleteWe didn't finish the movie because we didn't find it interesting. It had nothing to do with content thankfully. We felt there was no chemistry, between Jen and the lead. And, the storyline didn't draw us in. Thanks for asking.
"Home Sweet Christmas" - We finally watched the last movie, we had planned to watch, from the Thanksgiving Holiday weekend. I don't know if I really liked this movie. I have been a fan of Candance and Cameron for years. I was excited they finally made a movie together. They had decent chemistry but I had to sit through another movie with the same overused storyline which made me sad. The acting was great and enjoyed some of the banter and there were some touching scenes. But, this one didn't wow me so this will be a one-time watch.
ReplyDelete