🎁🌟 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)

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.


Movie Review:

🎬 Faith in the Flames: The Nichole Jolly Story – This movie is based on a true story from the 2018 Paradise, California wildfire and features the heroic actions of Nurse Nichole Jolly. Actress Chrissy Metz gives an outstanding performance as Nichole, embodying grace under pressure with every scene and turning to her faith in God. The actors portraying her husband, sons, and hospital co-workers also deliver incredible, moving performances, all conveying the heavy emotional toll of the disaster.

Even when she is injured herself, Nichole carries on and helps patients who have been burned from the fire. Caution Mild Spoiler: One woman is shown with terrible burns and later passes.

This film is rated TV-14 due to intense and frightening situations with the wildfire that would likely be too scary for younger viewers. There is no adult content.

This movie is very intense, so if you don’t enjoy those types of movies you’ll want to pass, but the heart and emotion in this film are definitely worth the watch. This is one of those stories that is so powerful- it stays with you. It reminds you not to take a single day or breath for granted and hold on to family and loved ones a little tighter, enjoy your precious time together.

My heart goes out to those who have had to deal with these types of wildfires in California and other locations year after year. This movie is best suited for a mature audience who appreciates a story of courage and resilience. ~Net


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.


Movie Review:

🎬 Before Your Father Finds Us - (may contain some mild spoilers) Alexa Penavega stars as Sophia, a devoted mom to her 14-year-old daughter, Emily (Jaeda Lily Miller). They attend church and their faith is evidently strong, especially Sophia, who leans on prayer often during times of trouble.

The movie is rated TV-14 for language and violence and it is definitely intense, at times, especially due to Mason, Sophia’s ex-husband, an escaped convict who killed a prison guard. He’s manipulative and very creepy. Most of his scenes are suspenseful and unsettling. I must say, the actor does an incredibly chilling job.

One of the earlier more lighthearted scenes shows Sophia having dinner with her boyfriend, Steve. I appreciated that she asked to pray before the meal, though I was surprised that he seemed caught off guard by it, which felt odd considering we learn minutes later that they've been dating for a year. Steve doesn’t propose on their anniversary, but instead offers her two keys- one to his restaurant and one to his home. Sophia seems surprised by this and says something like it's a big step. I half expected her to turn him down because of her faith and not because she wasn't ready. Honestly, they just didn’t seem to be in the same place spiritually.

When Mason, the ex-husband, shows up unexpectedly at Sophia’s home later when she is alone, they agree to meet later, but Sophia flees with Emily to a remote cabin, attempting to avoid the FBI, who she knows is compromised. So, yeah, it’s quite heavy and intense, but through it all Sophia prays and prepares with weapons and booby traps in the woods. Think Home Alone (when Kevin prepares for the burglars), but a little darker.

There is gun violence and two men have a fight, one beating the other up severely.

If suspense isn’t your thing, you’ll likely want to pass. But if you enjoy thrillers with an element of faith, this might be a good watch for you.

Did I enjoy it? Well, I liked seeing Alexa and Jaeda; I thought they were excellent portraying mother and daughter. The darker stuff, however, wasn’t really enjoyable for me, but I did appreciate seeing good ultimately triumph over evil in the end. ~Net

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.


Movie Review:

🎬 My husband and I watched If I Run last night. First thing I will say is that if you don't like waiting to see how the story ends, don't watch it yet. The sub story concluded, but the main story is supposed to conclude sometime in 2026. I will also say I'm not great at writing reviews so my thoughts might be quite choppy. I'm trying not to say too much, with still giving information so I will say that it CONSTAINS SPOILERS!!!

The main story is about a girl, Cass, on the run because police believe she killed a good friend of hers, and she is trying to find out the truth. There are scenes where you see the dead person with blood around him, the main girl washing blood off her hands and shoes, etc. I didn't find the murder mystery part of this to be too graphic. There is a young guy, hired by the dead man's family to look into the death, who suffers from PTSD and we see some flashbacks when he was in the war.

The sub story is about a young girl who disappeared, a few years back, from the small town that Cass is hiding out in. Her family doesn't know if she is dead or alive. We see a young girl with a baby in several scenes. She is locked up in a room, appears disheveled, and my assumption is that she had likely been raped. There's a man in this storyline who is what I would call verbally abusive to his wife, but also physically abusive to his wife...and Cass. He is shown grabbing their arms with force and demanding things of them. There is mention that this husband and wife are often at a bar and we do see them there once. There no excessive drinking on screen, but we later hear someone mention that "he's been drinking".

I did not notice any LGB.... content, sexual content, heavy language, etc. I would not recommend that children watch, and would be cautious with younger teens. If you don't mind the mystery/thriller type movie then you might enjoy it. I did and hope that part 2 doesn't let me down when it comes out next year. ~Karen

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

Lifetime Highlights Faith in Four New Premieres Starring Alexa PenaVega, Jaeda Miller, Chrissy Metz, Kat Graham, and Paula Patton

While Lifetime is best known for its suspenseful and thrilling movies throughout the year, their upcoming premieres take a more inspirational turn. These four new films highlight strong women leaning on their faith as they face life’s challenges.

One of the premieres features Alexa PenaVega (Mr. Manhattan) and Jaeda Miller (When Calls the Heart), which I know will catch the attention of many of you! (It certainly did me, as I love both actresses!)

Take a look below at Lifetime's press release for all the details on the four faith-focused premieres coming this July and August...

image via: Lifetime - Chrissy Metz, Alexa PenaVega, Kat Graham, and Paula Patton

LIFETIME ANNOUNCES 

NEW MOVIES CENTERED ON

WOMEN FINDING RESILIENCE 

THROUGH THEIR FAITH

DESPITE HARROWING CIRCUMSTANCES

EMMY® NOMINEE CHRISSY METZ STARS IN

FAITH IN THE FLAMES: THE NICHOLE JOLLY STORY

SET FOR JULY 19

ALEXA PENAVEGA STARS IN BEFORE YOUR FATHER FINDS US

PREMIERING JULY 26

KAT GRAHAM HEADLINES

MOVIE ADAPTATION OF TERRI BLACKSTOCK'S IF I RUN

FOR AUGUST 2

PAULA PATTON HELMS ACQUIRED MOVIE

FINDING FAITH

BOWING AUGUST 9 FOR WORLD BROADCAST PREMIERE

LOS ANGELES, CA (June 18, 2025) – Lifetime announces new Saturday night movies centered on women facing unfathomable circumstances who use their faith to lead them through.

Faith in the Flames: The Nichole Jolly Story, a gripping film based on the true story of the devastating 2018 fire that ripped through Paradise, California, is set to debut on July 19 and stars Emmy® nominee Chrissy Metz (This is Us).

The following week on July 26, Alexa PenaVega (Spy Kids, Perfect Pictures Mysteries) stars and executive produces Before Your Father Finds Us, the story of a woman who must draw on her faith to hide her and her teen daughter from her violent ex-husband.

On August 2, Lifetime adapts the best-selling Christian suspense book, Terri Blackstock’s If I Run, with Kat Graham (Duplicity, How It Ends, The Vampire Diaries) set to executive produce and star as Casey Cox, a woman on the run after discovering her best friend is murdered – and she is being framed for it. She must turn to her faith to guide her through the obstacles before her.

Lifetime also acquires the inspirational movie Finding Faith, starring Paula Patton (Precious), the poignant story of Faith Mitchell, whose life is shattered by an unexpected tragedy and must rebuild her life through a journey of rediscovery, hope, and purpose, to premiere August 9.


“We are always listening to our audience, and we know there has always been a desire for stories that reflect strength, resilience, and faith,” said Elaine Frontain Bryant, EVP and Head of Programming, A&E, Lifetime and LMN. “With these four new films, we’re thrilled to step into the faith-based space in a way that feels authentic, powerful, and deeply emotional. These are stories of healing, hope, and perseverance—and we believe they will resonate with anyone who’s ever faced adversity and looked for light in the darkness.”

Faith in the Flames: The Nichole Jolly Story

Starring Emmy®-nominated actress Chrissy Metz as Nichole Jolly, 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 is produced by Lighthouse Pictures and Wishing Floor Films in association with FilmAfrika and Motion Entertainment, a WPP Media Company. Jameson Parker, Catherine Kretz and Gemma Martini executive produce for Lighthouse Pictures. Danielle von Zerneck executive produces for Wishing Floor Films. Richard Foster and Chet Fenster serve as executive producers for Motion Entertainment, a WPP Media Company. Rudi Van As, Nicola Unsworth and Schalk Berger produced for FilmAfrika. The film is directed by Jozua Malherbe from a script by Kelly Fullerton. As part of the film’s rollout, the Rebuild Paradise Foundation will be highlighted and A+E Global Media has made a donation in support of the fire victims who are still rebuilding their lives.

Before Your Father Finds Us

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.

Before Your Father Finds Us is produced by Navid Soofi for PF Maple Productions Inc in association with Studio TF1 America for Lifetime. Alexa PenaVega, Tim Johnson, Meghan Hooper White, Amelia Burstyn and Gary Auerbach serve as executive producers. The movie is written by Julie Auerbach and Jason Bourque who also serves as director.

Terri Blackstock’s If I Run

Adapted from best-selling author Terri Blackstock’s book, If I Run follows Casey Cox (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, Spinning Out, Arrow, BH90210), 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. James Tupper (Big Little Lies) also stars.

Terri Blackstock’s If I Run is produced by Lighthouse Pictures, in Association with Fezziwig Studios. Dan Angel, Barbara Fisher, Jane Charles and Kat Graham serve as executive producers. Jameson Parker and Gemma Martini serve as executive producers for Lighthouse Pictures. Michael M. Scott directs from a script written by Alison Lea Bingeman and Kelly Fullterton.

Finding Faith - World Broadcast Premiere

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. Finding Faith also stars Loretta Devine, Stephen Bishop, Nadine Velazquez, Demetrius Grosse, and Keith David.

LazRael Lison wrote, directed and produced the movie. Tatiana Chekhova of Summer House Pictures also produced in collaboration with Charles F. Porter of Black Bench Productions. Paula Patton of Third Eye Productions produces with Marlon D. Haynes as executive produce.

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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 Company and The Hearst Corporation.

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Please share your thoughts on these movies below. Are you curious to watch Lifetime's inspirational films, even if they still include some drama and suspense?

Happy movie-watching!

Net

Exciting Movie Updates from Great American Family and Hallmark, featuring Heartwarming Christmas Stories and Thrilling Mysteries

A lot of exciting movie news has surfaced this week, circulating on social media and in press articles. Some of you may have caught some or all of it, but I wanted to offer an overview for anyone who might have missed out on any of the highlights.

So, here we go...

*A Newport Christmas-

First up, the Newport Buzz did a fun article covering the new time-travel movie, A Newport Christmas, starring Wes Brown (Haul Out the Holly, Autumn at Apple Hill) and Ginna Claire Mason (A Holiday Spectacular, A Carol for Two).

Both actors are also starring in new May movie premieres on the Hallmark Channel, Hats Off to Love and Love on the Danube: Love Song

According to the Newport Buzz article, filming for A Newport Christmas is taking place in Bowen’s Wharf, located in Newport, Rhode Island, and will be infused with timeless charm with a distinctive Newport flair, offering breathtaking waterfront vistas, cheerful settings, and of course, a Hallmark love story.

This is the storyline Newport Buzz offered, "the romantic time-travel drama centers on a determined woman from 1905 Newport who is mysteriously transported to the present day. Lost in a world she doesn’t recognize, she meets a passionate historian investigating her century-old disappearance. As they unravel the strange circumstances that brought her to modern-day Newport, the pair discover a connection that defies the barriers of time."

We can look for A Newport Christmas to air during Hallmark Channel's Countdown to Christmas!

*A Timeless Christmas Card-

Candace Cameron Bure recently announced to her followers that she is working on two Christmas movies for Great American Family. She just wrapped up one of them and will be filming the next one soon.

Well, I suspected that the film she just completed was named, A Timeless Christmas Card, which is a new Great American Family movie that follows a woman tasked with selling her grandmother's greeting card shop, who unexpectedly finds herself transported back to the store's prime in 1945. She and the shop's charming manager must work together to protect the store's legacy and navigate their time-traveling adventure.

Although there hasn't been any official confirmation from Candace or Great American Family regarding the movie news, Great American Family did release a video of Candace sharing the Easter story. In this clip, her hair and dress are reminiscent of the 1940s, matching the story's theme. Furthermore, Candace has posted a fun video of herself and her daughter, Natasha, both sporting 1940s fashion, which adds to the speculation. (By the way, Natasha also starred in the GAF Christmas movie, A Christmas for the Ages, which took a look back at various decades, and Candace Cameron Bure starred in Journey Back to Christmas, in which she starred as a woman from the 1940s who gets trapped in modern day.)

I've noticed that the new film A Timeless Christmas Card has also been called Timeless Tidings of Joy, so it's possible the title could change before the official announcement.

*Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case of the Yarn Maker-

The "Coming Soon" section on Pure Flix has announced that Candace Cameron Bure's mystery series, Ainsley McGregor Mysteries, will debut its latest installment, A Case for the Yarn Maker, over Memorial Day Weekend! Let's hope this means it will also be shown on Great American Family soon after.

*A Home Sweet Christmas Wedding-

Candace Cameron Bure announced in a Great American Family Facebook Live Event earlier this year, that she and Cameron Mathison would be filming a sequel to their Great American Family holiday movie, Home Sweet Christmas.

The new Christmas title, A HOME SWEET CHRISTMAS WEDDING, is now newly listed at Production Weekly. So, obviously, someone is getting married in this sequel, assuming this is, indeed, the title for their movie!

Great American Family also recently announced that they would be doing a "special Facebook live event as we reflect on the power of the resurrection and the hope it brings to our lives," which will include both Candace Cameron Bure and Cameron Mathison.

To see this special Easter Facebook Live Event, tune in on Great American Family’s and Pure Flix’s Facebook pages April 16th at 8/7c.

*Curious Caterer Mysteries-

Andrew Walker posted pictures to his IG account this week that featured himself, along with his Curious Caterer co-stars Riley Davis and Nikki DeLoach, filming another Curious Caterer mystery for Hallmark.

UPDATE: It appears the images Andrew Walker shared on IG were not current. At this point, there isn't any word on whether more Curious Caterer mysteries will be made.

*A Royal Montana Christmas-

This news has been floating around in the production phase for a while. Fiona Gubelmann is one of the producers behind ‘A Royal Montana Christmas.’ Could she also be the lead in this film? My guess is that it is likely.

This is a telefilm production by Hallmark, via talesfromthecollection, that promises to capture your heart this holiday season. The storyline follows a European princess who, seeking a break from royal responsibilities, embarks on an incognito holiday and unexpectedly finds love in the form of a rugged ranch hand. This delightful tale of romance, set against the scenic backdrop of Montana, is a perfect blend of charm and festive cheer.

*Reel One Entertainment (ROE) and Johnson Production Group (JPG)

Both of these companies, Reel One Entertainment and Johnson Production Group, were recently purchased by Studio TFI, one of the leading groups in audiovisual and film production and distribution in Europe, with over 50 production companies and labels.

In a recent social media announcement, the company disclosed its acquisition of these firms and committed to preserving the captivating storytelling that their audience loves.

If you watch movies on the Hallmark Channel, UPtv, Great American Family, and streaming... then you've likely seen numerous movies under these production companies.

Some of their most recognizable films include: The Christmas Charade, Operation Nutcracker, Noel Next Door, A Gift Wrapped Christmas, The Nine Kittens of Christmas, A Glenbrooke Christmas, and many more.

How will this acquisition impact the movies we see on TV? Only time will tell.





*Filming New Movie-

Alexa PenaVega has just disclosed that she will be busy shooting a new movie for the next three weeks. I’m hoping it’s a project with Great American Family or Great American Pure Flix, but I don’t have any confirmation just yet. I’ll let you know if she reveals any further details! At this time, I only know that her husband Carlos is not her co-star.

Prior to this, Alexa appeared in two films with Carlos: Mr. Manhattan and Get Him Back for Christmas, both of which aired on Great American Family.




Hope you all enjoyed this movie news today. Which one of these movies are you most looking forward to seeing?

Have a blessed weekend, everyone,

Net

🌟🌟 Brighten Your Weekend with New Christmas Movie Premieres 🌟🌟 on Hallmark, Great American Family, UPtv, and Lifetime

Happy Weekend, Friends!

It's another jam-packed few days filled with new Christmas movie premieres from Thursday to Sunday!

The main theme for this weekend seems to be about stars, literally and figuratively.

Most importantly, however, Hallmark Channel's new DaySpring movie, Following Yonder Star, focuses on the most significant, meaningful, and epic star of all... the Bethlehem star. I have come to love and enjoy all of the previous DaySpring line of inspirational films, such as The Blessing Bracelet and Miracle in Bethlehem, PA (which, by the way, is airing just before this new premiere Sunday night), and I have high hopes that I will also enjoy Following Yonder Star just as much. Brooke D'Orsay has been one of my absolute favorites since her very first Hallmark role in How to Fall in Love, so I'm very much looking forward to seeing her in this uplifting, faith-filled film.

As for the other stars featured this weekend...

Hallmark Mystery's All I Need for Christmas features an aspiring singing star, played by Mallory Jansen.

And Great American Family's Get Him Back for Christmas features a pop music star, played by Alexa Pena Vega, who loses her way after a heartbreaking break-up.

Although not about stars, Hanukkah on the Rocks is about the search for Hanukkah candles, which may end up lighting the path for a recently unemployed corporate lawyer.

Look for these illuminating NEW Christmas movies and more this weekend! See details below...


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Thursday, December 12, 2024:

All I Need for Christmas

Storyline: Maggie (Mallory Jansen) has been trying for years to break in as a singer/songwriter. Now faced with challenges of new apps and social media, Maggie fears she’s outdated and unable to compete in a tech-savvy world. While helping her parents on their farm at Christmastime, she meets Archer (Dan Jeannotte), an entrepreneur who has come back to town to spend the holidays alone. Archer is developing large-scale apps and is a tech enthusiast. At first, Maggie blames him for all of her songwriting woes. To her surprise, he encourages her to get back in touch with music that really matters and write from the heart; tech can be used in a supportive role to help her achieve her dreams without replacing the art of songwriting. Archer is dealing with loss of family, and through her tight family bonds, Maggie helps Archer find ways of moving beyond years of family feuding. In this holiday romance, Maggie and Archer both discover there is merit in preserving the tried and true while making room for new ideas and methods to bring people together and help make dreams come true.

All I Need for Christmas

Premieres Thursday, December 12, 2024

at 8pm/7c. on Hallmark Mystery

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Friday, December 13, 2024:

Hanukkah on the Rocks

Storyline: One week before Hanukkah, corporate lawyer Tory (Stacey Farber) finds herself unexpectedly unemployed and questioning the career she's dedicated years to. As she helps her Bubby prepare for the holiday, she embarks on a quest across Chicago to find the last box of coveted Hanukkah candles. Her search leads her to Rocky's, an Old Town bar, where she encounters Jay (Daren Kagasoff), a charming doctor from Florida, his grandfather Sam (Marc Summers) and a cast of quirky regulars who make her rethink everything. Torn between keeping her job loss a secret and embracing a newfound sense of belonging, Tory ends up bartending at Rocky's, transforming it into the vibrant "Hanukkah on the Rocks" celebration. Through festive food, drinks, and games, she revitalizes the bar, bonds with Jay, and finds the courage to pursue her true calling. As Tory navigates the holiday, she learns that sometimes a detour can lead you exactly where you're meant to be, lighting the way to a future filled with joy, romance, and self-discovery.

Hanukkah on the Rocks

Premieres Friday, December 13, 2024

at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel

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Saturday, December 14, 2024:

Get Him Back for Christmas

Storyline: Bella made it big in music. Jack stayed behind in his hometown working at The Salvation Army to help his family after his dad passes. Bella returns home after a heartbreaking split with her chart-topping singing partner and asks Jack to write the perfect song to get her boyfriend back. Carlos PenaVega wrote and performs an original song, “Get Him Back for Christmas” performed for the film at AT&T Stadium.

Get Him Back for Christmas

Premieres Saturday, December 14, 2024

at 8pm/7c. on Great American Family

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Saturday, December 14, 2024:

The Santa Class

Storyline: Kate North (Sustad) finds herself reluctantly taking over her father's once acclaimed and now struggling Santa School. In the weeks leading up to Christmas and the school's next session, Kate and her new co-worker Dan (Ayres) discover who they believe to be the real Santa Claus, lost and without his memories after his sled steered off course and crashed near the school. They decide to help him remember who he is by inviting him to participate in the intense Santa training program. There's a lot at stake this year with Kate's school needs to best the rival St. Nicholas School or be forced to close their doors, and Nick (Santa Claus) needs to remember who he is, or the fate of Christmas might be at stake.

The Santa Class

Premieres Saturday, December 14, 2024

at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel

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Saturday, December 14, 2024:

The Holiday Junkie

Storyline: The Holiday Junkie follows the decorating and planning service company run by Andie (Jennifer Love Hewitt) and her mother Mimi. After Mimi passes away, Andie is forced to face her first Christmas without her mother and carry The Holiday Junkie torch on her own. Despite the challenges, Andie may also find some love at Christmas along the way with the handsome house manager, Mason (Brian Hallisay), who has his own holiday secrets.

The Holiday Junkie

Premieres Saturday, December 14, 2024

at 8pm/7c. on Lifetime

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Sunday, December 15, 2024:

A Novel Christmas

Storyline: When a successful children's book author Chloe Anderson heads to the cozy town of Noelville to spend time with her sister's family and help care for her recently widowed father, she didn't expect the instant-connection with the local bookstore owner and single dad, Ethan; or find her number one fan in his daughter, Alex. Will the small town's charms be enough to rekindle a grieving family's Christmas spirit along Chloe's dreams of writing her first novel - let alone a chance at love?

A Novel Christmas

Premieres Sunday, December 15, 2024

at 7pm/6c. on UPtv

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Sunday, December 15, 2024:

Following Yonder Star

Storyline: Abby Marshall (Brooke D'Orsay), once celebrated for her role as an inspirational mother on TV, is finding her real life in shambles after dealing with a scandal. She retreats to a luxury Vermont resort for Christmas only to find herself without a room due to a booking mishap. All the local hotels are booked up due to a rare astronomical event - a beautiful star said to mirror the Star of Bethlehem will appear on Christmas Eve. Thankfully, Abby finds a room at a quaint B&B, owned by Tom Maguire (John Brotherton), who is also a high school astronomy teacher. Since his wife's passing, Tom has taken on a lot of extra responsibilities, including running the inn and directing the local church's Christmas pageant. Empathizing with Tom, Abby offers to help with the pageant and various activities around the inn and finds herself enjoying both the projects and Tom's company. Through newfound community, family and love, Abby discovers that hope sometimes comes in the most unexpected ways.

Following Yonder Star

Premieres Sunday, December 15, 2024

at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel

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Sunday, December 15, 2024:

Christmas on the Alpaca Farm

Storyline: Jess (Kirsten Comerford) the “Queen of Christmas Sweaters,” quits her job at the hottest fashion label in NYC, intent on winning a Christmas competition with her own line of sustainable luxury knits. Getting her hands dirty, she teams up with Andrew (Matt Wells), a single dad and struggling alpaca farmer, as she helps bring Christmas joy to the farm and love into both of their hearts.

Christmas on the Alpaca Farm

Premieres Sunday, December 15, 2024

at 8pm/7c. on Lifetime

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Movie Recommendation:

I received a thoughtful email this week from a loyal follower. He wanted me to share with you all that the feature film The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is now available to view by streaming.

He also shared this brief, positive review, "This is a wonderful wonderful movie and we think it will become a Christmas classic. If you haven’t seen it do yourself a favor."

I must say, I haven't seen this new Christmas movie, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, yet, but since the day this film was announced, it has been on my must-see watch list! The original made-for-TV short that features this story is so beautiful and heartwarming. I'm hoping this new film will be just as special. And it sounds like, from this review, that it is!

Click here to stream The Best Christmas Pageant Ever



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My Weekend Watch List:

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend, and hopefully, you'll be able to watch many of the new and classic Christmas movies!

Following Yonder Star and Get Him Back for Christmas are my top two picks for this weekend.

At the top of this post, I mentioned my thoughts on Following Yonder Star, but I'll sum it up again by saying how much I look forward to these inspirational DaySpring films that always focus, whether it be Christmas or Easter, on the true meaning of the season.

I'm also looking forward to seeing Alexa and Carlos' second Great American Family movie premiere, Get Him Back for Christmas. It looks like this will be a lighthearted film filled with festive music, heartwarming moments, and inspiration. I just adore Alexa and Carlos; they are such a lovely couple and they have such beautiful children. Most of all, their faith in The Lord shines through with their giving spirits as they work with the Salvation Army, which will be prominently featured in their new Christmas movie.

Please be sure to share which movies you are looking forward to this weekend in the comments below.

And by the way, if you are still doing some Christmas shopping, as I am, I have some gift-giving ideas- click here!

Visit the *Christmas TV Schedule* for the dates and times of NEW Christmas movies.

You can find the 2024 Christmas Movie Review post *here*.

Happy Christmas Movie-Watching!

Net 🎄

SHINING HIS LIGHT:

Scriptures for the second week of Advent, 

which represents peace...

 

“Glory to God in the highest, 

And on earth peace, 

goodwill toward men!”

~Luke 2:14

“Blessed are the peacemakers,

For they shall be called sons of God.”

~ Matthew 5:9