🎁🌟 Christmas in July Finale Weekend: Unwrap Heartwarming Classics, New Movie Premieres & Cozy Feels

( images: Hallmark Media, Great American Media, and Lifetime 
edit: itsawonderfulmovie.com  - click to enlarge)

Happy Christmas in July Weekend, Movie Friends!🎄🎄🎄

It's the last weekend for holiday movies on Great American Family and the Hallmark Channel! I don’t know about you, but I’m really going to miss the festive joy they’ve brought to these warm summer days.

Although I have good news... Christmas movies will continue to air on Friday nights, and GAF's Christmas movies are still featured in their schedule 24/7 on Friday, August 1st. So, maybe, they are simply finishing out the week??? Stay tuned!🌟🎬

Friday, July 25th, marks around THREE months 'til the Christmas movie season begins (near the end of October) and just FIVE months exactly 'til December 25th - Christmas Day! Do you plan to watch any special Christmas movie on Friday or over the weekend in honor of our countdown? If so, I’d love to hear your picks! Please share in the comments below! (You’ll find the weekend Christmas schedule further down.)

As for me, I’m hoping to catch some of these beloved classics airing over the weekend: Snow Bride, Christmas Next Door, Santa Tell Me, A Christmas Blessing, A Cinderella Christmas Ball, Following Yonder Star, A Christmas Detour, and more! There are so many good movies airing - it was hard to choose just one!

Since this is the last final weekend hurrah for Christmas in July, I want to try to soak up as many festive movies as I possibly can, even if I know it's not realistically possible to squeeze them all in! A girl can dream! ✨

Plus, I'm trying to leave some time around my weekend plans to catch the exciting new premieres: Unwrapping Christmas: Olivia’s Reunion and Before Your Father Finds Us. (How will I ever fit it all in? Let’s just say... my DVR is already set! 😉)

Are you ready to unwrap this weekend's new Christmas movie and holiday classics, along with a new suspenseful premiere?

Let’s make it a merry send-off! See details below...


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Saturday, July 26, 2025:

Unwrapping Christmas:

Olivia’s Reunion

Storyline: Olivia finds herself trapped in a cabin with her ex-boyfriend Ben. The time together allows them to explore the idea of a second chance at romance.

Unwrapping Christmas:

Olivia’s Reunion

Premieres Saturday, July 26, 2025

at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel

Movie Reviews:

🎄 Unwrapping Christmas: Olivia's Reunion is clean. All in all, a cute ensamble series on Hallmark +. -Maria

🎄 Unwrapping Christmas: Olivia’s Reunion - Watching this movie was such a delight! This final film in the series does a wonderful job of bringing the journeys of Olivia and her three best friends full circle. Cindy Busby portrays the expressive and vibrant Olivia and truly shines in this role.

And then there’s Jake Epstein, who plays the perfect counter to Cindy’s character. He always brings such a fun and engaging energy to his roles, making every scene enjoyable to watch. Their chemistry together is fantastic; it was such a joy to see these two exes stuck together during a snowstorm.

Overall, this movie is lighthearted and family-friendly, making it an excellent pick for viewing any time of the year. Olivia's Christmas love story wraps up the entire series perfectly! ~Net


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Saturday, July 26, 2025:

Before Your Father Finds Us

Storyline: Sophia (Alexa PenaVega) and baby daughter, Emily, are forced to go into witness protection after she has to testify against her ex-husband Mason (Tahmoh Penikett) for his crimes. After years of living a seemingly normal life with new friends and relationships, Sophia learns that Mason has escaped from his maximum security prison. Knowing his strength and connections, Sophia is forced to reveal the truth to her now teenage daughter (Jaeda Lily Miller) about who her father really is – and having to leave everything behind. Escaping to an old remote cabin in the woods together, Sophia and Emily must do everything it takes to survive Mason and his ruthless intent to make the family whole again.

Before Your Father Finds Us

Premieres Saturday, July 26, 2025

at 8pm/7c. on Lifetime

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Weekend Christmas Schedule, Friday - Sunday:

Friday, July 25, 2025:

Once Upon a Christmas Wish ... Great American Family ... 12am
12 Games of Christmas ... Great American Family ... 2am
A Hot Cocoa Christmas ... Great American Family ... 4am
A Belgian Chocolate Christmas ... Great American Family ... 6am
Christmas is You ... Great American Family ... 8am
My Favorite Christmas Tree ... Great American Family ... 10am
Christmas Getaway ... Hallmark Channel ... 10am
Christmas Angel ... Great American Family ... 12pm
Sugarplummed ... Hallmark Channel ... 12pm
Designing Christmas with You ... Great American Family ... 2pm
A Christmas Cookie Catastrophe ... Hallmark Channel ... 2pm
Catering Christmas ... Great American Family ... 4pm
A Royal Christmas Holiday ... Great American Family ... 6pm
Miracle in Bethlehem, PA ... Hallmark Channel ... 6pm
Peppermint & Postcards ... Great American Family ... 8pm
Three Wise Men and a Baby ... Hallmark Channel ... 8pm
Christmas in the Smokies ... Great American Family ... 10pm
Santa Tell Me ... Hallmark Channel ... 10pm


Saturday, July 26, 2025:

Christmas on Windmill Way ... Great American Family ... 12am
A Biltmore Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 12am
A Christmas Wish in Hudson ... Great American Family ... 2am
Haul Out the Holly ... Hallmark Channel ... 2am
A Royal Christmas Ballet ... Great American Family ... 4am
One Royal Holiday ... Hallmark Channel ... 4am
A Lot Like Christmas ... Great American Family ... 6am
Christmas in Evergreen ... Hallmark Channel ... 6am
A Christmas Blessing ... Great American Family ... 8am
Snow Bride ... Hallmark Channel ... 8am
'Twas the Text Before Christmas ... Great American Family ... 10am
A Veteran's Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 10am
A Paris Christmas Waltz ... Great American Family ...12pm
Crown for Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 12pm
A Kindhearted Christmas ... Great American Family ... 2pm
A Christmas... Present ... Great American Family ... 4pm
A Merry Scottish Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 4pm
Christmas Under the Northern Lights ... Great American Family ... 6pm
One Royal Holiday ... Hallmark Channel ... 6pm
Journey to Christmas ... Great American Family ... 8pm
Unwrapping Christmas: Olivia's Reunion ... Hallmark Channel ... 8pm *NEW
My Christmas Hero ... Great American Family ... 10pm
Unwrapping Christmas: Mia's Prince ... Hallmark Channel ... 10pm


Sunday, July 27, 2025:

A Cozy Christmas Quilt ... Great American Family ... 12am
Holiday Crashers ... Hallmark Channel ... 12am
The Art of Christmas ... Great American Family ... 2am
Christmas Next Door ... Hallmark Channel ... 2am
Meet Me Under the Mistletoe ... Great American Family ... 4am
Holiday Hearts ... Hallmark Channel ... 4am
A Hot Cocoa Christmas ... Great American Family ... 6am
The Christmas Train ... Hallmark Channel ... 6am
Christmas on Candy Cane Lane ... Great American Family ... 8am
Christmas with Holly ... Hallmark Channel ... 8am
Angel Falls Christmas ... Great American Family ... 10am
The Nine Kittens of Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 10am
Christmas in Maple Hills ... Great American Family ... 12pm
Cross Country Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 12pm
A Cinderella Christmas Ball ... Great American Family ... 2pm
Following Yonder Star ... Hallmark Channel ... 2pm
Christmas Keepsake ... Great American Family ... 4pm
A Christmas Detour ... Hallmark Channel ... 4pm
A Christmas Castle Proposal ... Great American Family ... 6pm
Unwrapping Christmas: Olivia's Reunion ... Hallmark Channel ... 6pm
Destined 2: Christmas Once More ... Great American Family ... 8pm
Royally Wrapped for Christmas ... Great American Family ... 10pm
Three Wiser Men and a Boy ... Hallmark Channel ... 10pm

*Click Here* for more Christmas movies in July and August!


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Programming Note:

UPtv is airing the film, On a Wing and a Prayer, starring Dennis Quaid, for the first time on their network on Sunday, July 27, 2025, at 12:30pm/11:30c. (This movie previously premiered on Amazon Prime and aired on INSP.)

Storyline: After their pilot dies unexpectedly mid-flight, Doug White has to safely land the plane and save his entire family from insurmountable danger.

Note: I'm keeping a look out for any other new movies coming up this August/September on UPtv, and I'll do my best to let you know if something appears in their schedule. If you happen to catch something, please feel free to share!


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Have you voted for your Favorite Christmas Movie from 2024?

If so, thank you for participating!

If not, please take a minute and vote here.

Time is getting short to participate - poll ends on Monday!


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Wishing you all a joyful and cozy weekend ahead!✨

I'd love to hear what Christmas movies you're planning to watch- so be sure to drop your picks in the comments below. Are you revisiting a beloved classic, or tuning in for one of this weekend’s exciting premieres? Please share with us!

Note: I haven't seen the Lifetime movie, Before Your Father Finds Us. Due to the suspenseful nature of the film, I expect the movie to have violence, adult dialogue, and content not suitable for young viewers. (I wanted to be sure to mention this since I know some young "When Calls the Heart" fans may want to watch, since Jaeda Lily Miller (Allie) is in this. Viewer discretion is advised.)

In case you missed it, you can see Maria's and my review for Unwrapping Christmas: Olivia's Reunion above.

Merry *Christmas in July* movie-watching!🎄

Blessings on your weekend,

Net

SHINING HIS LIGHT:

“When they saw the star, they were overjoyed.”

Matthew 2:10 (NIV)

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

Isaiah 9:6 (NIV)

🎬 Great American Media to Film Over 20 New Movies and Original Series in the USA

Exciting news for all of us fans of family-friendly movies! Deadline announced today that Great American Media is teaming up with legendary producer Robert Halmi to create over 20 new films and series! And what's even better? They’ll be filming here in the United States, starting with the studio’s production hub in Buffalo, New York!

This new partnership brings together two powerhouses in family entertainment: Bill Abbott, CEO of Great American Media (and formerly the Hallmark Channel), and Robert Halmi, a producer of over 400 film and television projects, founder of the Hallmark Channel, and the visionary behind Great Point Studios. Together, they're setting out to produce uplifting content centered around faith, family, and traditional values!

Their first movie, A Christmas Spark starring Mario Lopez, wrapped earlier this year in Buffalo and will be part of GAF’s upcoming holiday lineup. Mario shared how meaningful this project was to him, especially since it honors firefighters and was inspired by his own real-life experiences during the LA wildfires.

I don’t know about you, but I love hearing that these kinds of movies are being made right here at home. There’s something extra special about knowing these films are being filmed in real American towns- with beautiful local scenery and plenty of hometown heart.

This is just the beginning, too! More productions are planned for Great Point Studios locations across the U.S., including Yonkers, Atlanta, and even a new studio being built in Newark, NJ. It’s exciting to see the growing investment in family content and even more exciting that it's happening on American soil.

Bring on the cozy scenes, holiday charm, and inspiring stories... I can’t wait to see what they create next!

Stay tuned for more movie news!

Net

Erin Krakow and Tyler Hynes Reunite in Hallmark’s Upcoming Holiday Movie “Christmas Above the Clouds”

Erin Krakow and Tyler Hynes image via Hallmark Media
courtesy of people.com

The secret's been out for awhile, but now it's official! Fans of both Erin Krakow and Tyler Hynes (Hearties and Hynies) figured this reunion out long before this official confirmation, due to shared behind-the-scenes social media posts including images of matching Christmas set decor, teaser videos from an airplane-themed set, and more... that fueled speculation about their collaboration.

Erin Krakow and Tyler Hynes will join forces again in a new Christmas film titled Christmas Above the Clouds, set to premiere later in 2025 as part of Hallmark Channel’s 16th annual "Countdown to Christmas" lineup. This marks their first on‑screen appearance together since the beloved 2021 romantic comedy It Was Always You.

According to people.com, the film is a modern, comedic take on A Christmas Carol. Krakow plays a driven CEO determined to skip Christmas by taking a trip to Australia. During her flight, she’s visited by spirits who guide her through her past, present, and future. Amidst the supernatural intervention, she unexpectedly reunites with her ex, played by Hynes, leading to a rekindled romance and rediscovered holiday magic.

In addition to this holiday project, Tyler Hynes is set to reprise his role in the third installment of Three Wise Men and a Baby, while Erin Krakow continues production on Season 13 of the series When Calls the Heart.

What do you think about this fun reunion? Let us know in the comments below. It truly feels like the year of reunions, doesn’t it?

Have a Joyful Day,

Net

Casting Change: Kristoffer Polaha Out, New Lead Joins Jana Kramer in “The Christmas Ring” - Now Filming

( image via : Jana Kramer )

It was previously announced that Kristoffer Polaha (A Biltmore Christmas) would star as the male lead in the upcoming holiday film The Christmas Ring, based on the soon-to-be-released novel by author Karen Kingsbury.

However, since that announcement was made in June, there has been a change in casting.

Benjamin Hollingsworth (A Godwink Christmas: Meant for Love) will now take on the lead role of the antiques dealer opposite actress Jana Kramer (Christmas in Mississippi). Much like Jana Kramer and Kristoffer Polaha, Benjamin Hollingsworth has also starred in a number of TV movies - from rom-coms to Christmas!

Also joining the cast of The Christmas Ring is the legendary Kelsey Grammer (Frasier), although details about his role have yet to be revealed.

( Kelsey Grammer and Benjamin Hollingsworth images via Maury Phillips / WireImage )

Karen Kingsbury’s novel The Christmas Ring is set to be released on October 21st, with the film adaptation premiering in theaters on November 6th through Fathom Entertainment.

This is a synopsis of the movie's storyline: "The Christmas Ring centers on a Gold Star widow (Jana Kramer) searching for her family’s missing Christmas ring, only to cross paths with a charismatic antiques dealer (Benjamin Hollingsworth) whose own family history may be connected to the mystery.

Author Karen Kingsbury shared this delightful video from the set yesterday on their first day filming...

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Karen Kingsbury (@karenkingsbury)

Benjamin Hollingsworth also posted to social media this video describing the vibe of the first day on set:




Jana Kramer shared a few pictures from behind the scenes...

( image via : Jana Kramer )

( image via : Jana Kramer )

I hope the cast has a fantastic time filming! While it’s still unclear why Kristoffer Polaha wasn’t ultimately able to move forward with this project, I certainly wish him all the best on his next movie. I’m also confident that Benjamin Hollingsworth (based on past performances) will bring something special to the role and do a spectacular job!



If you'd like to pre-order Karen Kingsbury’s novel, The Christmas Ring, see details here.

May Your Day be

Merry & Bright! ✨

Net

Brandy Norwood and Daughter Sy'Rai Bring Family Spirit to Lifetime's 'Christmas Everyday'

Brandy Norwood is joining Lifetime’s lineup of holiday films this season in a new Christmas movie titled Christmas Everyday. Adding a personal touch to the project, Brandy will star alongside her real-life daughter, Sy'Rai, marking their first on-screen appearance together.

The film is part of Lifetime’s annual holiday slate and will highlight themes of family, connection, and second chances, which are fitting for the season.

Details on the film’s premiere date, storyline, and supporting cast are in Lifetime's press release below...


Lifetime Press Release:

BRANDY NORWOOD JOINS THE

LIFETIME HOLIDAY FAMILY

TO STAR IN

AND EXECUTIVE PRODUCE

CHRISTMAS EVERYDAY

LOS ANGELES, CA (July 23, 2025) – Lifetime has greenlit the new movie Christmas Everyday, executive produced by and starring Grammy® Award winning singer and actress Brandy Norwood, as the tentpole to its annual It’s a Wonderful Lifetime slate. Norwood portrays Francine “Fancy” Ballantine, a devoted fashion designer juggling family obligations and career ambitions. Movie to feature Brandy’s 2023 holiday song of the same name for the film that will also star Debbi Morgan and Norwood’s real-life daughter, Sy'Rai Smith, in her acting debut. Jeffrey Bowyer-Chapman (UnReal) also stars as Fancy's co-worker Germaine. More films for Lifetime’s It’s a Wonderful Lifetime slate will be announced soon.

"The holidays are always about family as part of the festivities, so I’m beyond thrilled to be partnering with Lifetime on this magical holiday project and having my own daughter star with me – even though we are playing sisters!,” said Norwood. “It’s a Wonderful Lifetime has become such a beloved tradition, and I’m honored to star and executive produce.”

Following the death of her father, Fancy (Brandy Norwood) has been more determined than ever to uphold her father’s cherished Christmas traditions as her mother Evelyn (Debbi Morgan) has also begun losing her sight. But things aren’t a smooth ride as Fancy simultaneously is planning her bridezilla baby sister’s, Belle (Sy’rai Smith), wedding. When a water pipe bursts and disrupts the fairytale wedding plans, Fancy finds herself unexpectedly drawn to the rugged, yet charming, contractor Jaylen (Robert C Riley) who is tasked with renovating the house. Through all the chaos, she learns valuable lessons about faith, family, and the true meaning of Christmas.

Christmas Everyday is produced by FOX Entertainment Studios (FES). Executive producers are Stella Bulochnikov, Dr. Holly Carter, Brandy Norwood, and Ryan Ramsey along with Fernando Szew, Hannah Pillemer, Larry Grimaldi and Adam Shepard for FES. The film will be directed by Roger Bobb and is based on a script written by Meg DeLoatch and Cameron Ross. FOX Entertainment Global will distribute the film internationally.

###

ABOUT LIFETIME
Celebrating over 40 years of entertaining audiences, Lifetime is a premier entertainment destination for women dedicated to offering the highest quality original programming spanning award-winning movies, high-quality scripted series and breakout non-fiction series. Lifetime has an impressive legacy in public affairs, bringing attention to social issues that women care about with initiatives such as the long running Stop Breast Cancer for Life and Stop Violence Against Women. Lifetime Television®, LMN®, Lifetime Real Women® and Lifetime Digital™ are part of A+E Global Media™. A+E Global Media™ (aegm.com) is a joint venture of The Walt Disney and The Hearst Corporation.

Follow Lifetime on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and Tik Tok

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A few things stood out to me in this press release...

1.) Love that mother and daughter are working together.

2.) The storyline states... "Through all the chaos, she learns valuable lessons about faith, family, and the true meaning of Christmas." (I sincerely hope they are referring to the real true meaning - Jesus!)

3.) It is stated in the press release - "More films for Lifetime’s It’s a Wonderful Lifetime slate will be announced soon." (Yay! I'm always looking forward to hearing more CHRISTMAS movie news!)

Stay tuned,

Net

Image: Brandy and Sy'Rai (Photo Credit Ronyae Kerns)

🌟 Cindy Busby and Sam Page Reunite for Great American Family Christmas Movie - See Sneak Peek!

Great American Media just shared a sneak-peek video on its socials (see below!) from one of their upcoming Christmas movies, featuring this special message you won’t want to miss...

"Exciting things are happening behind the scenes! 🎬 Stay tuned for a buzz-worthy announcement this week! 🤭"

(click image below to play)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Great American Family (@greatamericanfamily)

I'm so excited to see Cindy Busby and Sam Page together again! I absolutely loved them in the 2021 Great American Family Christmas movie, Joy for Christmas! Their chemistry was just perfect in that film, and judging by this behind-the-scenes clip, it looks like that same spark is definitely back!


Please share your thoughts in comments below.

Stay tuned for more 

Christmas movie news!

Net🎄

image via: Great American Media

🎄 Shop the Christmas in July Sale: Must-Have Hallmark Movies on Amazon!

Over 100 Hallmark Movies on DVD are currently on sale at Amazon right now for Christmas in July!

Shop today for a discounted price on your favorite Hallmark holiday movies, mysteries, and rom-coms!

Movies included in the sale: A Biltmore Christmas, Miracle in Bethlehem, PA, Signed, Sealed, Delivered, The Wedding Cottage, USS Christmas, Curious Caterer Mysteries, and so much more!

*Click Here* to take a look 

at ALL of the Hallmark movies 

currently included in this incredible sale!

Limited-Time Offer: Don’t wait- these sale prices won’t last long, so be sure to shop today to take advantage of these discounts!

Disclosure: The links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase- at no extra cost to you. Thank you all so much for your continued support!

Happy Christmas in July!

Net🎄

🎅🎄 Lacey Chabert & Andrew Walker Reunite for New Hallmark Christmas Movie "She’s Making a List"

Exciting news! During the premiere of "Unwrapping Christmas: Lily's Destiny," the Hallmark Channel revealed that Lacey Chabert and Andrew Walker are teaming up once again for a brand-new holiday movie!

You may remember their sweet chemistry in the Valentine’s favorite "My Secret Valentine," but now, they’re hopefully bringing that same charm to Christmas for the very first time in "She’s Making a List"!

Enjoy this preview:
(click the arrow button to play)

Santa isn’t the only person making lists. ✍️ Can naughty or nice list auditor Isabel put her feelings aside for single dad Jason and his struggling daughter? Watch @IamLaceyChabert and @AWALK35 in #ShesMakingAList, coming this holiday season during #CountdownToChristmas! Stream… pic.twitter.com/Bc7fyzAOI5

— Hallmark Channel (@hallmarkchannel) July 20, 2025

Hallmark included this message on X:
"Santa isn’t the only person making lists. ✍️ Can naughty or nice list auditor Isabel put her feelings aside for single dad Jason and his struggling daughter? Watch @IamLaceyChabert and @AWALK35 in #ShesMakingAList, coming this holiday season during #CountdownToChristmas!"

What are your thoughts, so far, on this new Christmas movie premiere? Are you looking forward to seeing Lacey Chabert and Andrew Walker together again?

Have a Merry Weekend, Everyone!

Net🎄

Christmas Cheer & Mystery Premiere: Great American Family Releases New Christmas Promo and Ainsley McGregor Date

Happy Saturday, everyone!

Hope you're all enjoying a fantastic weekend so far! Just popping in to share two exciting new promos from Great American Family today!

The first promotion below is for A Christmas List of Blessings, starring Shae Robins and Christopher Russell, which of course, is premiering this upcoming Christmas season on Great American Family.

Storyline via Great American Media:
In A Christmas List of Blessings, Natalie (Robins), a children’s book illustrator struggling with creative burnout, finds unexpected inspiration when she comes across a little girl’s Christmas gift list. Unlike other children’s Christmas lists, Caroline writes her list of heartfelt prayers to Jesus, requesting blessings for her family, friends, and community – including one to ask that her recently widowed dad (Russell) will find happiness again. Touched by Caroline’s list, Natalie begins to secretly fulfill each blessing. In turn, she is inspired to create a new character, Adeline the Angel, to illustrate the ways Jesus quietly works through everyday people to answer prayers with love and grace.

A Christmas List of Blessings promo:
(click arrow button to play)



Also, I have wonderful news for all of you Sleuthers...

Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case For Yarn Maker, starring Candace Cameron Bure, Aaron Ashmore, and Robin Dunne, will premiere Saturday, October 4, 2025, on Great American Family!

See the new promo below, which includes the premiere date!

Storyline via Great American Media:
In the mystery, Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case For The Yarn Maker, Ainsley McGregor (Bure) a former Chicago criminologist, has moved back to her hometown of Sweet River, Texas, to teach criminology at the local university while also being the owner/operator of Bless Your Arts, a shop for community artists. Bless Your Arts is honoring a true Yarn Goddess, heiress of Real Wool, Ellie Mitchum who arrives with a cold demeanor before turning up cold, as in dead. At stake in the mystery is the future of Ellie’s Fortune 500 company and her feuding family angling for control. As always, Ainsley relies on her brother, Sheriff Ryan, her boyfriend, fireman Jake (Ashmore), and the eccentric band of sleuths who masquerade as a Book Club to solve the crime. Whatever the mystery, Ainsley McGregor is always on the case.

Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Yarn Maker promo:
(click arrow button to play)



Hope you enjoyed this news! If you're looking for the weekend movie schedule, click here.

Have a Blessed Weekend, Everyone!

Net

🌟🎁 Unwrap More Christmas Joy This Weekend with New Premiere and Holiday Classics

( images: Hallmark Media / Great American Media - click to enlarge )

It’s the weekend again, friends!

We are now nearing the end of Christmas in July - with only two weekends to go! This month always flies by nearly as fast as Santa on Christmas Eve!

The Hallmark Channel is halfway through the cable premiere of their four Unwrapping Christmas films; however, there are still plenty of festive holiday classics airing throughout this weekend and the rest of July on Hallmark and Great American Family! I've included the weekend Christmas Schedule below. I’ve also shared (at the end of this post) a few of the Christmas movies I’m especially excited to watch- be sure to let me know your favorites in the comments!

Also, Lifetime has its first suspenseful movie premiere this weekend that includes faith. This film appears to be a powerful and inspirational story set against intense and emotional circumstances. Please note: I have not previewed this film. It may include some adult content and mature dialogue, so viewer discretion is advised.

See details for these movies below...


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Saturday, July 19, 2025:

Unwrapping Christmas:

Lily’s Destiny

Storyline: Amidst the chaos of the holiday season, Lily, a hardworking marketing whiz, meets a charming realtor. As their connection grows, she wonders if he could be the perfect holiday gift.

Unwrapping Christmas: Lily’s Destiny

Premieres Saturday, July 19, 2025

at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel

Movie Reviews:

🎄 Unwrapping Christmas: Lily's Destiny is clean. –Maria

🎄 Unwrapping Christmas: Lily’s Destiny is another delightful installment in this charming series. This story introduces an intriguing love triangle that keeps things interesting. Lily, portrayed by Ashley Newbrough, is radiant and attractive; she finds herself torn between the town’s wealthy, most eligible bachelor and a new acquaintance who shares a meaningful connection to her past and brings a comforting sense of home. It's a fun, feel-good, family-friendly movie. ~Net


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Saturday, July 19, 2025:

Faith in the Flames:

The Nichole Jolly Story

Storyline: Nichole Jolly is a nurse at the town’s hospital, who begins her day as usual, only to face an unimaginable crisis when a wildfire rapidly engulfs the town. Torn between her duty to protect her patients and her desperate need to find her husband Nick, (Colin Moss) and children, Nichole discovers an unyielding strength within herself to save not only her family but countless residents from the encroaching flames. The film is a tribute to the indomitable human spirit and the unsung heroes who emerge in the face of tragedy.

Faith in the Flames: The Nichole Jolly Story

Premieres Saturday, July 19, 2025

on Lifetime

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Christmas Schedule for the Weekend:


See the Christmas Schedule and my two videos below for why you can't miss Christmas in July on Great American Family and the Hallmark Channel!


Saturday, July 19, 2025:

Christmas in the Smokies ... Great American Family ... 12am
Sugarplummed ... Hallmark Channel ... 12am
A Puppy for Christmas ... Great American Family ... 2am
A Christmas Blessing ... Great American Family ... 4am
The Art of Christmas ... Great American Family ... 6am
Tails of Christmas ... Great American Family ... 8am
A Dickens of a Holiday! ... Hallmark Channel ... 8am
The Jingle Bell Jubilee ... Great American Family ... 10am
Once Upon a Christmas Miracle ... Hallmark Channel ... 10am
A Little Women's Christmas ... Great American Family ... 12pm
A Vintage Christmas ... Great American Family ... 2pm
A Maple Valley Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 2pm
Christmas Under the Northern Lights ... Great American Family ... 4pm
The Sweetest Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 4pm
Christmas Oranges ... BYUtv ... 5pm
A Christmas Less Traveled ... Great American Family ... 6pm
’Twas the Date Before Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 6pm
Christmas on the Coast ... BYUtv ... 7pm
A Kindhearted Christmas ... Great American Family ... 8pm
Unwrapping Christmas: Lily's Destiny ... Hallmark Channel ... 8pm *NEW
A Cape Cod Christmas ... BYUtv ... 8:33pm
Once Upon a Christmas Wish ... Great American Family ... 10pm
Unwrapping Christmas: Tina's Miracle ... Hallmark Channel ... 10pm
Shoelaces for Christmas ... BYUtv ... 10:04pm
Christmas Jars ... BYUtv ... 11:36pm


Sunday, July 20, 2025:

Journey to Christmas ... Great American Family ... 12am
A Cape Cod Christmas ... BYUtv ... 1:10am
Mrs. Miracle ... Great American Family ... 2am
Shoelaces for Christmas ... BYUtv ... 2:41am
Santa, Maybe ... Great American Family ... 4am
Angel Falls Christmas ... Great American Family ... 6am
A Dog Named Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 6am
Christmas Time is Here ... Great American Family ... 8am
Christmas Everlasting ... Hallmark Channel ... 8am
Christmas in Maple Hills ... Great American Family ... 10am
Picture a Perfect Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 10am
A Royal Date for Christmas ... Great American Family ... 12pm
Christmas Waltz ... Hallmark Channel ... 12pm
Christmas Wreaths and Ribbons ... Great American Family ... 2pm
Christmas on Call ... Hallmark Channel ... 2pm
Destined 2: Christmas Once More ... Great American Family ... 4pm
A Biltmore Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 4pm
Jingle Bell Princess ... Great American Family ... 6pm
Unwrapping Christmas: Lily's Destiny ... Hallmark Channel ... 6pm
Peppermint & Postcards ... Great American Family ... 8pm
Christmas at the Drive-In ... Great American Family ... 10pm
Our Holiday Story ... Hallmark Channel ... 10pm


Why you can't miss Christmas in July...
(Click the arrow button to play and turn up your volume!)

It's #ChristmasInJuly on #GreatAmericanFamily!!!🎄✨

Catch your favorite classic #ChristmasMovies airing on GAF 24/7... day and night!!!

⭐️See Christmas Schedule:https://t.co/gazStUqQEs pic.twitter.com/iuXGM4NaqD

— It's A Wonderful Movie 🍿📺 (@awonderfulmovie) July 9, 2025

Happy #ChristmasInJuly, Everyone!!!🎄❤️✨

Don't miss your favorite classic Christmas movies airing throughout the month of July on the @hallmarkchannel + the Hallmark premiere of#UnwrappingChristmas!🎁

⭐️See the #ChristmasMovie schedule here:https://t.co/gazStUqQEs pic.twitter.com/F3j9z4Qp3H

— It's A Wonderful Movie 🍿📺 (@awonderfulmovie) July 9, 2025

Click here to see more Christmas movies airing in July!


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Christmas Movie Poll:
(Click the arrow button to play and turn up your volume!)

🌟 VOTE for YOUR FAVORITE CHRISTMAS TV MOVIES in the *IT'S A WONDERFUL MOVIE* AWARDS!

Vote Here: 👇👇https://t.co/jrL0taSAfY@GAfamilyTV @hallmarkchannel pic.twitter.com/K7ub99ChMm

— It's A Wonderful Movie 🍿📺 (@awonderfulmovie) July 17, 2025

Have you voted for your Favorite Christmas Movie from 2024?

If so, thank you for participating!

If not, please place your vote here.


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I hope you all have a relaxing, enjoyable weekend! It's going to be another dangerously hot one for us. I hope those of you who are experiencing the same intense heat will be able to keep cool and perhaps, stay inside and enjoy a movie or two!

I've seen "Unwrapping Christmas: Lily's Destiny," and thought it was a fun watch! See Maria's and my review above.

In addition to that, I'm hoping to see A Biltmore Christmas, Once Upon a Christmas Wish, Christmas Waltz, and others! What movies are on your watch list?

Enjoy your weekend!

Blessings,

Net

☀️ SHINING HIS LIGHT: ☀️

"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."

Philippians 4:8 KJV

🌟 VOTE for YOUR FAVORITE CHRISTMAS TV MOVIES in the *IT'S A WONDERFUL MOVIE* AWARDS!

Happy Christmas in July, 

Everyone!

Vote TODAY for your Favorite

Christmas TV Movie!

See the complete list of nominees listed in alphabetical order below, with their movie posters.

Choose ALL of the Christmas movies that were your favorite new premieres from 2024, then please VOTE by taking the POLL below!

Be sure to click the word VOTE after you have checked ALL of Your Movie Favorites. This is one voting process per person.

HAPPY VOTING!
( scroll down below images to vote... )

Poll Maker

🌟 THANK YOU FOR VOTING! 🌟

This poll began on Wednesday, July 16th, and ends on Wednesday, July 30th.

When this poll is over, be sure to stop back by It's a Wonderful Movie for the results of this and all of the previous polls for Favorite Rom-Com, Mystery, Faith-Based, and Christmas movie!

Happy movie-watching!

Net

🚜❤️ Fresh Off the Farm:: NEW Poster Released for 'Grounded in Love' Starring Danica McKellar & Trevor Donovan

( image: Great American Media - click to enlarge ) 

Great American Family just released this heartwarming new poster for their upcoming original movie, 'Grounded in Love,' and I couldn’t resist sharing it with y’all!

As a country girl myself, the farm setting in the poster immediately captured my heart with the red barn, stacks of hay, the old-fashioned windmill, and that peaceful country charm. It just feels like home to me. Perhaps, some of you feel the same!

When the movie airs...

'Grounded in Love' will first premiere on Great American Pure Flix starting Thursday, August 7th. Then, you can catch it on cable when it airs on Great American Family, Saturday, September 27th, at 8 p.m. ET.

Here’s the sweet storyline Great American Media shared: "'Grounded in Love' follows Annie (Danica McKellar), a NYC flight attendant whose life is upended by a career setback and breakup. Seeking clarity, she returns to her grandmother’s Kentucky farm, where reconnecting with childhood friend Jake (Trevor Donovan) helps her rediscover faith, family, and a love that’s truly grounded.✨"

I love that the title 'Grounded in Love' has so many layers of meaning, just like Danica briefly shared during their recent Facebook Live. Grounded refers to her character, a flight attendant, who’s spending some much-needed time back on solid ground. It also speaks to the setting as Annie returns to her roots on the family farm. And even more beautifully, grounded reflects the emotional journey both Annie and Jake take as they become more grounded in their faith, their feelings, and the life they’re meant to live.

Be sure to look for this movie in September on Great American Family! I'll also be sharing other movie premieres coming in September... so stay tuned!

Blessings,

Net

Lifetime’s Summer Film Lineup is Filled with Faith & Suspense – Watch the Trailers Here

Lifetime is premiering four films in July and August that focus on women who lean on their faith to get through difficult times and unexpected challenges.

I previously mentioned these films by sharing Lifetime's press release in June, but I also wanted to give these films a space where I could post their individual posters, video promos, and any movie reviews that may come in after they air.

Please note: The trailers shared below contain some intense scenes, violence, and adult situations that are not meant for young children.

The Christian radio station KLove promoted the third film, Finding Faith, when it premiered in theaters on June 16th for one day only.

Here's a closer look at these upcoming Lifetime movie premieres that include faith & suspense...


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Faith in the Flames: The Nichole Jolly Story

Premiere Date: July 19, 2025

Starring: Chrissy Metz and Colin Moss

Storyline: Nichole Jolly is a nurse at the town’s hospital, who begins her day as usual, only to face an unimaginable crisis when a wildfire rapidly engulfs the town. Torn between her duty to protect her patients and her desperate need to find her husband Nick, (Colin Moss) and children, Nichole discovers an unyielding strength within herself to save not only her family but countless residents from the encroaching flames. The film is a tribute to the indomitable human spirit and the unsung heroes who emerge in the face of tragedy.

Promo:






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Before Your Father Finds Us

Premiere Date: July 26, 2025

Starring: Alexa PenaVega, Jaeda Lily Miller, and Tahmoh Penikett

Storyline: Sophia (Alexa PenaVega) and baby daughter, Emily, are forced to go into witness protection after she has to testify against her ex-husband Mason (Tahmoh Penikett) for his crimes. After years of living a seemingly normal life with new friends and relationships, Sophia learns that Mason has escaped from his maximum security prison. Knowing his strength and connections, Sophia is forced to reveal the truth to her now teenage daughter about who her father really is – and having to leave everything behind. Escaping to an old remote cabin in the woods together, Sophia and Emily must do everything it takes to survive Mason and his ruthless intent to make the family whole again.

Promo:






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Terri Blackstock’s If I Run

Premiere Date: August 2, 2025

Starring: Kat Graham, Evan Roderick, and James Tupper

Storyline: Adapted from best-selling author Terri Blackstock’s book, If I Run follows Casey Cox (Kat Graham), a woman on the run after discovering her best friend Brent has been murdered—and she is being framed for it. Not knowing who to trust, Casey flees, using her intelligence and resourcefulness to stay hidden and the signs of divine guidance to help her in her journey. Meanwhile, Dylan Roberts (Evan Roderick), a war-weary veteran and private investigator with PTSD, is hired to track her down. As Dylan digs deeper into the case, he begins to suspect that Casey might actually be innocent and that the real story is far more complex—and dangerous—than it first appeared.

Promo:






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Finding Faith

Premiere Date: August 9, 2025

Starring: Paula Patton, Loretta Devine, Stephen Bishop, Nadine Velazquez, Demetrius Grosse, and Keith David

Storyline: Struck by a sudden death of her husband, Faith (Paula Patton) spirals out of control and loses her trust in God. But with the unwavering support of her family, pastor and close friends, Faith starts to find her way out of the darkness and into the light, rebuilding her life one step at a time.

Promo:




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I would love to hear your thoughts on these movies!

Are you feeling inspired to watch Lifetime’s faith-filled films, even though they include some drama and suspense along the way?

Blessings,

Net

*promotional images and screengrabs via Lifetime