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Hallmark Press Release:
"STUDIO CITY, CA – February 27, 2017 – We may associate April 15 with the nerve-fraying anxiety of Tax Day in the US. However, this April 15 falls on a Saturday, which can mean just one thing: a stress-free Saturday evening enjoying a romantic comedy on Hallmark Channel. Cassidy Gifford (“The Gallows,” “God’s Not Dead”) and Wyatt Nash (“Graves,” “The Bridge”) star in “Like Cats And Dogs,” a Hallmark Channel Original Movie, premiering Saturday, April 15 (9 p.m. ET/PT).
In “Like Cats And Dogs,” Lara (Gifford) is a dog lover, while Spencer (Nash) is a cat lover. Spencer and Lara could not be more different. So when Go BnB lands them – and their pets – in the same lake house vacation rental over summer, they will have to figure out a way to get along without killing each other. There are complications: Spencer is in a relationship with Susan, though he is constantly questioning where the relationship is going. Lara is rebounding from a bad breakup and not open to any new romantic possibilities. This particular summer, in the quaint waterfront town of South Haven, a budding friendship will give way to peace and harmony in the house between both the couple and their pets. Can a summer romance be far behind?
“Like Cats And Dogs” is a Front Street Production. Harvey Kahn is Executive Producer. Ron Oliver directs “Like Cats And Dogs” from the screenplay written by Aaron Mendelsohn with revisions by Ron Oliver."
My take...
This sounds like another "purr-fectly cute" Spring movie for Hallmark! Any movie with the addition of cats and dogs, is always a plus! Should be fun to see Cassidy Gifford star in her own Hallmark movie and it's nice to see the return of Wyatt Nash on Hallmark, since starring in Karen Kingsbury's "The Bridge."
Now... What do you think? Is this something you'll be watching come Spring Fling on Hallmark?
Hallmark's 'Charming Christmas' starring Julie Benz and David Sutcliffe is a charming story of a modern day Santa and a female Scrooge, whose heart changes for the better at Christmastime!
Hallmark's 'A Christmas Melody' starring Lacey Chabert, Brennan Elliott, and Mariah Carey (who also directs), is a sweet Holiday tale of a young mother and daughter who find love and friendship in a small town.
Hallmark's 'The Bridge' starring Faith Ford, Ted McGinley, Katie Findlay, and Wyatt Nash is a two part movie (174 minutes) where circumstances draw people together in a local bookstore, and each life connects with the other. Based on the story by author Karen Kingsbury.
You can also watch an encore airing of Part 1 - right before the premiere of Part 2!
On Sunday March 20, 2016, Karen Kingsbury's The Bridge Part 1 airs at 7pm/6c. and Karen Kingsbury's The Bridge Part 2 premieres at 9pm/8c. on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries!
via Hallmark: "The Bridge, Part II" begins seven years after the first, with Ryan returning home from being on the road touring as a professional singer and Molly working at her father’s corporation. After they both receive devastating news regarding The Bridge and their beloved friends Charlie and Donna, Molly and Ryan meet again in Franklin, Tennessee. They are reminded of their unspoken love and dreams about a possible future together, which never happened. Can they open their hearts to second chances -- for them, for Charlie and Donna, and for The Bridge?
Forever in my Heart
Season 3, Episode 6:
Premieres: March 20, 2016 on the Hallmark Channel at 9pm/8c.
Via Hallmark: As Jack prepares to take the next step in building a future with Elizabeth, Elizabeth worries that Faith's plan to stay in Hope Valley could hurt their romance. Then, a discouraged Becky returns to Abigail's home in need of support to get well, prompting Abigail to decide to take a leap of love and give Becky and Cody a permanent home. Then, while Bill Avery goes after Gowen as the sawmill saboteur, Rosemary discovers her big break is within reach, and a stunning visitor to the café threatens to shake up Abigail's happy new family.
Since Hallmark first announced this year they would air their New Original Drama Series, beginning with "When Calls the Heart", 30 Sunday Nights in a Row at 9pm/8c. on the Hallmark Channel - devoted Hallmark movie and TV series fans collectively took notice, knowing this would directly conflict with the Premiere of Original Movies on their sister station, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, which also premieres on Sunday nights.
The first simultaneous showing was the premiere of Season 3 "When Calls the Heart" up against the premiere of "Signed, Sealed, Delivered: From the Heart" on February 21, 2016. Those of us, who are loyal watchers of both series, (unless you could record one), had to unfortunately choose between them.
images via: Hallmark Crown Media
At the time, I received a lot of viewer feedback from many of you, Hearties and POstables, and the question was often the same... "Why?"
I wish I had an answer, but it doesn't make sense to me, either. Airing competing premieres surely takes away from the ratings to both Hallmark programs.
Subsequently, following this original dilemma, I wanted to be certain you all know - there will be further match-ups like this in the course of this 30 weeks of original series... including the premiere of part two of "Karen Kingsbury's The Bridge" on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, which will coincide with a new episode of "When Calls the Heart" on the Hallmark Channel, Sunday evening, March 20th.
images via: Hallmark Crown Media
Also, a new original Hallmark Movies & Mysteries movie "White Hot" will premiere at the same time as the new season of "Good Witch" premieres April 17th on the Hallmark Channel.
Furthermore, if and when there are other new Hallmark Movies & Mysteries movies premiering from now until late Summer - they will also air at the same time as the new drama series on the Hallmark Channel. Several new Mystery Movies are expected to premiere on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries this summer, which may coincide with the new Hallmark Channel summer series "Chesapeake Shores", premiering Sunday, July 17.
So, what can be done? As loyal viewers, I think we should let Hallmark know we would like to watch the premieres of both programs. On both stations. Without them airing at the exact same time.
When viewers voiced that waiting a year to see the continuation of "Karen Kingsbury's The Bridge" was too long, Hallmark listened, and moved the premiere up to March. When viewers said they wanted to see more of "When Calls the Heart", but... only if the characters remained in Hope Valley, again Hallmark listened, and season 3 has that same unique charm, once again, as Season 1.
My Solution: Move the 1 hour dramas up 1 hour on the Hallmark Channel. That way, viewers can turn to the other station afterwards to watch the movie. Also, I have felt that airing a family show, such as "When Calls the Heart" from 9pm-10pm, may be too late for some children, and "When Calls the Heart" is most definitely one of those rare shows you can wholeheartedly trust to watch with your children, of all ages!
Another factor: Social Media! Fans of "When Calls the Heart" - who call themselves #Hearties - will definitely be LIVE tweeting during their show and IF the new movie premieres on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries AFTER "When Calls the Heart's" time slot, then I'm sure many would turn there - and continue to watch and tweet during the movie, as well!
Promo Idea: Hallmark could even have a countdown commercial to the premiere of the new movie on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries after the credits roll on the Hallmark Channel series. I know they are always looking for ways to promote the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries channel, and that would definitely generate interest!
How You can Help:If you would like to see the premiere times for these programs change - please contact Hallmark via Facebook and Twitter, and kindly ask them to consider changing their Sunday Night Schedule - so viewers can watch both!
Faith Ford ... Donna
Ted McGinley ... Charlie
Katie Findlay ... Molly
Wyatt Nash ... Ryan
Andrea Brooks ... Kristen
Matt Hamilton ... Lonnie
Kazumi Evans ... Jenny
Jaime M. Callica ... Luther
Alison Araya ... Edna
Troy Mundle ... Jake
Joel Berg ... Jesse Duffy
Natasha Burnett ... Ronnie
Robert Egger ... Fred Fellows
Carey Feehan ... Preston Millington III
Taylor Hastings ... Rae Ann Duffy
Nicole G. Leier ... Shauna
Mark McConchie ... Bert
Kirsten Van Ritzen ... Eloise
PLOT:
via Hallmark: "The Bridge, Part II" begins seven years after the first, with Ryan returning home from being on the road touring as a professional singer and Molly working at her father’s corporation. After they both receive devastating news regarding The Bridge and their beloved friends Charlie and Donna, Molly and Ryan meet again in Franklin, Tennessee. They are reminded of their unspoken love and dreams about a possible future together, which never happened. Can they open their hearts to second chances -- for them, for Charlie and Donna, and for The Bridge?
Author Karen Kingsbury (#1 New York Times Bestselling Christian Novelist) has been teasing for days that she had some exciting news to reveal this week and the announcement has come!
Karen's long running book series based on "The Baxter Family" is coming to TV!
This Exclusive News was revealed via Deadline.com:
"Roma Downey and LightWorkers Media, the faith and family division of MGM, have acquired rights to New York Times bestselling author Karen Kingsbury’s The Baxter Family novel series for television."
"The 22-book series, starting with the book Redemption, tells the story of how John and Elizabeth Baxter, and their six adult children, come together over love, loss, laughter, and life in an epic drama that proves the strength of faith and family."
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No word, yet, on which network will carry this series, or who will star, but it's encouraging to hear a new family-friendly program is being made for television!!!
Also, many of you will remember Karen Kingsbury's The Bridge Part 1 premiered on the Hallmark Channel this passed December, 2015 and due to viewers request... the Second Part to this story will premiere on the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Channel in March, 2016.
Roma Downey (of Touched by an Angel, Come Dance at My Wedding, etc...) and her husband Mark Burnett are well known for producing The Bible mini-series (History Channel), and the A.D. TV Series.
Congratulations Karen Kingsbury! It's wonderful to hear & share the news that your family-friendly book series will become a Television series! Can't wait to hear even more about it!
A surprising promo was announced in a commercial on the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Channel during the premiere of Flower Shop Mystery: Mum's the Word on Sunday evening (January 17, 2016). Karen Kingsbury's The Bridge Part 2, by popular demand, will air in March, 2016 on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries.
image via: Hallmark Crown Media
Screen captured image from Hallmark's Commercial Promo
As many of you will recall, the first part of Karen Kingsbury's The Bridgepremiered on the Hallmark Channel, December 6th, 2015, during their "Countdown to Christmas" event. Whether or not it will air on the Hallmark Channel, in March or at a later date, is unknown.
I certainly hope the entire story will become available for all Hallmark viewers to see.
*A special "Thank You" to Meredyth, Sherry, and Linda D. for sharing this information with me!
79 Potential, Rumored, In the Works, Filming, Coming Soon.....
Christmas Movies listed below!!!
This post first began in January of 2016, but you will find many updates made since that day! Scroll Down for more details...
As soon as the last Christmas movie airs in December, and we say farewell to another glorious Holiday season, everyone’s thoughts quickly turn to wondering what next year’s Christmas season will bring!
Farewell Christmas 2015!
Well, now that 2016 is officially here – we will piece together a few early Christmas Findings!
1.) NORTHPOLE 3 ???
(posted January, 2016) For the Hallmark Channel… first of all, could there be a third “NORTHPOLE” movie? Oh, I certainly hope so, but please know there isn't any news or announcement on that happening, yet! But, if there is – I certainly hope Bailee Madison, who has that genuine sparkle, will return as Elf Clementine! She’s adorably dazzy and makes Christmas extra fun for all the little ones and grownups, too!
UPDATE (July 21, 2016): While we are all still on NORTHPOLE 3 WATCH for this Christmas Season, or next year... I am excited to share with you all that BAILEE MADISON will be starring in an all new original Made-for-TV Christmas Movie this 2016 Christmas Season on Freeform (the newly named ABC Family). See Details Below - #57!
UPDATE (September, 2016): It looks like there will not be a Northpole 3 this year. We will have to hope for next year!
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2.) Karen Kingbury's The Bridge Part 2
(posted January, 2016) Also… we do, of course, know there will be a second part to the inspirational story of “Karen Kingsbury's The Bridge” - sometime in 2016. (Update below!)
I know the decision to wait a year before showing the conclusion to this story was difficult for many of you. Please know, I personally value and respect all of your thoughts and opinions on the matter, and feel especially sorry for older individuals, or those who have an illness, who are steadfast Hallmark Channel watchers. Hopefully, the Hallmark Channel will be able to air it sooner, then later, but please know, I haven’t heard any news on that, yet. Stay tuned!
UPDATE: (January 18, 2016) Karen Kingsbury's The Bridge Part 2 will officially air, due to popular demand, March 20, 2016 on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries and will encore the next weekend on Easter Sunday, March 27, 2016 on the Hallmark Channel. As Karen Kingsbury's shared via social media, "It's Christmas on Easter!"
“Karen Kingsbury's The Bridge”
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3.) A Puppy for Christmas
(posted January, 2016) Officially, Cedar Cove came to an end on the Hallmark Channel in 2015, but we will still see stars from the series popping up in Hallmark movies and other series, including Cynthia Busby, who starred on Cedar Cove as Rebecca Jennings and also starred in the Winterfest movie: “Unleashing Mr. Darcy”. Dare2Productions have revealed, they have just filmed, in December, a Christmas Movie for 2016, currently titled: “A Puppy for Christmas”!!! The film will star Cynthia Busby, Greyston Holt, Allison Price, and Derek Mcgrath.
UPDATE - July 1, 2016:Worldscreen is reporting this Marvista Film is officially going to be an UP Christmas Movie!
Cynthia Busby in “A Puppy for Christmas” (wt)!!!
(image via: Dare2Productions, Cynthia Busby , and Russ De Jong Instagram)
on set of “A Puppy for Christmas” (wt)!!! (image via: Dare2Productions, Cynthia Busby , and Russ De Jong Instagram)
Greyston Holt, Allison Price, Cynthia Busby, and Derek Mcgrath.
on set of “A Puppy for Christmas” (wt)!!!
(image via: Dare2Productions, Cynthia Busby , and Russ De Jong Instagram)
Update June 23, 2016:
Storyline via Marvista:
"Noelle has the perfect set-up: a successful job, a handsome boyfriend and the life of her dreams. She is only missing one thing. Deciding to finally take the plunge, Noelle adopts an adorable puppy. However, her life does not become the dream she imagined it would. Instead her new furry friend turns her world upside down and soon they are facing Christmas alone. Accepting an invitation to spend the holidays with her coworker, Liam, she is surrounded by the Christmas cheer of a warm, happy family. Sparks soon begin to fly between Noelle and her host as the warmth of the season ignites something between them. But when Noelle’s estranged boyfriend tracks her and proposes in an attempt to win her back, Noelle must decide which life she wants. Will it be the safe, successful world she knows, or an unpredictable future with the man who is quickly winning her heart?"
Starring: Cindy Busby, Greyston Holt, Christopher Russell
UPDATE: (posted January, 2016) It looks like the movie we thought Autumn Reeser was filming for Christmas this passed December (2015), was actually her Hallmark Channel Valentine's Day movie... Valentine Ever After. If you are wondering why we originally suspected it to be a Christmas movie, well, there was snow and this sweet Christmassy pic with an adorable kitty, plus Autumn's Instagram post:
"Well, a kitten is a great way to end a movie and a year! Happy 2015 and happy holidays everyone... @hallmarkmovies#ohcanada#thatsawrap"
After further research, unfortunately, it looks like the Christmassy pic Autumn posted was simply taken somewhere on location during the Christmas season. I do think it would be great fun to have Autumn Reeser in another Hallmark Christmas Movie - since many fans loved her in Love at the Thanksgiving Day Parade! (One of my all-time faves, by the way - I wish was played more often during the Holidays!)
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4.) Signed, Sealed, Delivered For Christmas - Returns???
(posted January, 2016) Now, for Hallmark Movies & Mysteries… one of the actors from the "Signed, Sealed, Delivered" series revealed there just might be another Christmas movie in the works for the Dead Letter Office team during The Most Wonderful Movies of Christmas… for 2016! Their last Christmas movie was "Signed, Sealed, Delivered For Christmas" - pictured below! It's a personal favorite of mine! Such a beautiful story wrapped around undelivered letters and a very sweet Christmas nativity pageant.
For Hallmark Movies & Mysteries... I’m also going to guess that one or more of the ongoing HMM mystery series might just do a Christmas themed movie this year, as well!
UPDATE (July, 2016): I have recently read reports that there will not be a ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered’ Christmas Movie for the 2016 Christmas Season, after all. However, let’s all keep a look out and hope for a potential SSD Christmas movie in 2017!
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5.) Wish for Christmas
(posted January, 2016) Also, I had heard buzz that Joey Lawrence (who starred in Hallmark’s “Hitched for the Holidays”) was recently filming a new Christmas movie, so I did a little research and discovered this movie, currently titled “Wish for Christmas” will premiere on Lifetime during their 2016 Christmas Season! The film will star Joey Lawrence, Leigh-Allyn Baker, Anna Fricks, Jeff Schroeder, and more!
UPDATE: This movie will not air on Lifetime, but it is available on DVD. See below...
(posted January, 2016) I just recently discovered this news (January, 2016)! Looks like another NEW Christmas Movie is in the filming process, titled... "The Last Love Letter".
According to a casting call for extras on the web-site, voiceofalexandria.com: Want To Be In A Movie? Here's Your Chance "If you ever wanted to be in the movies, you'll have a chance tonight (Friday) in Northfield. Strike Accord Productions wants extras to hang around Bridge Square in downtown Northfield, to create outdoor scenes about a Christmas fair in a film that's now being called "The Last Love Letter." Line producer Jillian Nodland says you can show up at the square any time from 5:30 tonight until as late as 5:30 tomorrow (Saturday) morning. You're asked to wear cold weather clothing with Santa hats or other Christmas touches. Nodland says you won't get paid, so there's no checking in-and-out -- you can stay as long as you like -- and if you're there late at night, the crowds will be most likely be smaller, and you'll have a better chance of seeing yourself on film." (information via: voiceofalexandria.com Posted on Jan 22, 2016 by Minnesota News Network)
We will have to keep a look out for this one - to see if it's a made-for-TV movie!?!?!?
UPDATE (March, 2016): One tweet mentions this will be a Hallmark TV Christmas movie, but that hasn't been officially confirmed. This is a Marvista Entertainment project. Other films from this production company have aired on the Hallmark Channel, such as "Fir Crazy".
I found a couple on set pics with actresses Marguerite Moreau and Sara Marsh, via Instagram:
Update: June 23, 2016:
Storyline via Marvista: "Celia Banks has given her whole life to seven-year-old daughter Lilly. After losing her husband three years ago, Celia has also given up on love... but Lilly doesn't want her mother to spend another holiday season alone. She decides to send a letter to Santa, Inc., a service that answers children’s North Pole bound mail, wishing for her mom to be happy again. When struggling children’s author Jake Platt (“Santa”) receives Lilly’s letter, he is inspired to write for the first time in years. Once Celia reads Jake’s heartfelt response, the two begin an old-fashioned correspondence and fall more in love with each letter, just in time for Christmas."
*Thank you for finding the alternative title and the additional images above, Sherry.
UPDATE - July 1, 2016:Worldscreen is reporting this Marvista Film is officially going to be a Hallmark Movie!
UPDATE - September 14, 2016 This movie will premiere during Hallmark Movies & Mysteries 'Most Wonderful Movies of Christmas' 2016!
LOVE ALWAYS, SANTA
Premieres: Sunday, November 6th
After losing her husband Bradley three years ago on Christmas day, Celia Banks never thought she’d fall in love again. Now, her entire world revolves around taking care of her daughter Lilly. Lilly writes a letter to Santa with one wish — for her mommy to be happy and find love again.
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7.) The Christmas Gift
(posted January, 2016) In October, 2015 – news appeared that Kevin Sorbo would be starring in a new Christmas Movie, along with Dan Martin and Ella Joyce. The film has the current working title “The Christmas Gift” and will be self-funded through this web-site: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-christmas-gift#/.
You can read all about the movie project there and if you like, you can contribute to make this new Christmas movie – which will be about the true meaning of Christmas – and is expected to be released during the 2016 Christmas Season! Here are some more details about the story, via: https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/the-christmas-gift#/: “The Christmas Gift, will be a film in which we hope to recapture that spirit and magic. Our story takes place in New York City at Christmas, where the urban metropolis takes on its most special glow. It’s about two people who live and work at the opposite ends of society— one, the ruthless CEO of the largest real estate company in the state; the other, a professional hockey player whose career was cut short by injury and runs a homeless mission in New York’s Bowery district. They are both faced with their own personal crises, and both must overcome extreme obstacles. But, wondrous things can happen at Christmas if you just have a little faith, which is what this movie is about. It’s about the Christmas miracles and how they affect the lives of everyday people.”
You can donate to help this movie be made by contributing at: indiegogo.com. With your donation you can earn "The Christmas Gift" Movie merchandise- a magnet, ornament, t-shirt, signed movie poster, an extra spot or speaking role in the movie, etc… See all the details, here!
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8.) Joseph and Mary
(posted January, 2016) In other Holiday news…Kevin Sorbo will also star as Joseph in the Biblical story “Joseph and Mary”, which will premiere in theaters! Of course, Joseph and Mary’s main story is the Christmas Story, the birth of Jesus!
This movie has been released on DVD - see information here.
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9.) Dashing through the Snow (Disney Movie)
Added February 23, 2016: Disney has a new movie project titled "Dashing Through the Snow". Via The Tracking Board: this "action/comedy follows a cop in New York City who arrests a burglar during a reported breaking and entering on Christmas Eve. However, the officer gets into hot water when he discovers that the man may or may not be the actual Santa Claus."
A special "thank you" to SleepyKittyPaws for sharing this movie news in the comment section below!
UPDATE: October, 2016- THIS MOVIE IS STILL IN THE PRODUCTION, CASTING PHASE.
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10.) I'll be Next Door for Christmas
Added February 23, 2016:Disney star Laura Marano (Austin & Ally) is filming a new Christmas movie "I'll be Next Door for Christmas". Here is the fun synopsis below via Twitter: Beware... Contains Movie Spoilers!!!
Added February 23, 2016: MORE Christmas Movie News via millstonenews.com: There is a NEW Christmas movie filming in Almonte, Canada. "The Millstone received a note from the municipality today saying that a film called The Rooftop Christmas Tree would be shooting scenes here over the next several weeks"... "from February 22 through March 14th, 2016."
According to the Almonte.com web-site, Almonte IS A SCENIC MILL TOWN on the Canadian Mississippi River, 45 minutes from downtown Ottawa, Canada. *Correction made to the movie title on March 23, 2016- it is officially "The Rooftop Christmas Tree", not "A Rooftop Christmas Tree". Thank you to the writer of this story, Landria Onkka, for e-mailing me to inform me of this news.
image via: Millstonenews.com / Almonte doubles as ‘Rosedale’ (Ian MacLean)
(Update added March 9, 2016) ---- The Rooftop Christmas Tree is coming to TV!!! Millstonenews.com has once again revealed more Christmas Movie news on the movie The Rooftop Christmas Tree. On their web-site, they recently did an interview with Landria Onkka, author of “The Rooftop Christmas Tree”. In this interview they revealed plot details, casting details, and not only where, but when it will can be seen on TV! Plot: via Millstonenews.com interview: "No one in the small southern town of Rosedale knows why reclusive Mr. Landis places a lit Christmas tree on the roof of his deteriorating home. But, he has hauled it up there for as long as anyone can remember, landing him in Judge Conner’s courtroom every year and earning jail time just in time for Christmas. Having grown up on his street, defense attorney Sarah Wright remembers the troubled household and reaches out to help the man, but he refuses." see more at Millstonenews.com
Casting Details: The Rooftop Christmas Tree will star Michelle Morgan (Heartland) and Tim Reid (WKRP in Cincinnati, Sister, Sister)
When & Where Revealed:The Rooftop Christmas Tree will be an UP Christmas Movie! The current scheduled premiere date is November 27, 2016!!! Be sure to stay tuned for any changes or updates!
UPDATE April 25, 2016:CLICK HERE to see my Interview with writer Landria Onkka on her UP Movie : The Rooftop Christmas Tree! Includes Behind-the-Scenes details, movie images, and more!!!
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12.) Coming Home
(added March 2, 2016) ---- According to the web-site: www.thecominghomemovie.com, a NEW Christmas movie is in the works, titled Coming Home.
This is the movie synopsis found on the http://www.thecominghomemovie.com/ web-site: "John is a hard working man that has decided to focus more on his career than his family. During a devastating event that leads him back to his old home town he will come face to face with his own father's life, his mother's love, and his wife's faith. While his children are growing up without him, he has to make a decision that will change his family forever."
This is their mission statement, "This film is not only a culture of life Christmas movie, but it is a movement to help raise funds for mothers and children in need. As the movie grows, so will our reach to help families. Every ticket, DVD, download, or product helps to raise funds for struggling families and to make sure we can reach as many as possible, for Christ."
13.) A Snow Capped Christmas - NEW TITLE: Falling for Christmas (see update, poster, and trailer below!!!)
(added March 2, 2016) ---- Qube Films is currently filming A Snow Capped Christmas. According to infotel.ca - "as many as half a dozen movies of the week are being filmed in Okanagan." The "Hallmark Channel is producing between four and six movies with budgets of roughly $1 million each, including one that is being produced by Kelowna resident Iain Hittel."
Here's some on-the-set pics I found via social media!!!
This is the cast we know, so far, for A Snow Capped Christmas: Niall Matter, Lochlyn Munro, Leah Renee, and Gracyn Shinyei
UPDATE NEWS: Additional Cast Member!
Back in April, we learned actress Lisa Whelchel had filmed a Christmas Movie...
(added April 27, 2016) ---- Recently, actress Lisa Whechel (Hearts of Spring) shared some interesting news during an interview with starrymag!
Hallmark Crown Media - 'Hearts of Spring'
Lisa was asked, "What are the recent projects that you are working on?" She responded at the time on April 9th, "I have the Hallmark movie Hearts of Spring. I filmed that earlier this year and I did another Christmas movie, but I don’t know when that is going to air."
Hmmm??? Interesting, huh? Don't know which network it will air on. So, for now, we will have to keep a look out for this one! Source: http://starrymag.com/?p=9689 Ruth Mayer Hill's interview with Lisa Whelchel.
Lisa posted this image to Twitter in February with the caption "Filming another movie up in Canada this month. How gorgeous is this location today?!"
(Credit for image discovery: Sherry in California -- Thank you for sharing this fun news!)
Now for the UPDATE! (September 12, 2016):
According to the Christie Will Films Web-site, the movie 'A Snow Capped Christmas', will also star actress Lisa Whelchel. There is a picture featured on their web-site with the main cast. Featured in the cast: Leah Renee, Niall Matter, Gracyn Shinyei, Lisa Whelchel, Lochlyn Munro, and Michael Teigen.
So, now we finally know which Christmas movie Lisa Whelchel is starring in, however as I write this, it is still uncertain where this movie will be seen.
(Credit for above discovery: Shirley S. - Thank you for sharing this awesome news!) )
UPDATE (October 1, 2016): "A Snow Capped Christmas" HAS A NEW TITLE: "Falling for Christmas"
Movie Poster Released:
Movie Trailer:
*Thank you to the Anonymous commenter (below!) who shared this trailer!
*Where this will be shown - is still unknown!?!?
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14.) A Vermont Christmas Vacation (formerly known as: "The Christmas Apprentice")
(added March 9, 2016) ---- According to the web-site: wgrz.com, an NBC affiliate in New York... there is a new filming there in the area titled "The Christmas Apprentice". Here is a description of the movie, via Jeff Preval's interview with the film's director: "It's a Christmas movie," said director Fred Olen Ray, "it's a movie about a girl who is sent to a small town to liquidate and shutdown a failing company, but when she gets there she realizes that it's a lot more than crunching numbers, it's real people at stake."
The film will star Abigail Hawk ("Blue Bloods") and Zack Ward ("A Christmas Story", "Anne of Green Gables", and the Hallmark Channel movie "Accidentally in Love"). This same director, Fred Olen Ray, had a Christmas movie premiere on TV last year, on the ION network, "A Prince for Christmas". No word, yet, on where this new movie, "The Christmas Apprentice" will be seen, but according to this report- we should look out for it in theaters or on TV, this upcoming Christmas Season!
UPDATE: (August 22, 2016)
In my interview with writer, director, and producer Peter Sullivan, he revealed a new Christmas movie - “Vermont Christmas Vacation.” He shared that it is coming to ION this coming holiday season starring Chevy Chase, Abigail Hawk from “Blue Bloods” and David O’Donnell from “Christmas Under Wraps.”
UPDATE: (September 20, 2016)
This film will officially be called "A Vermont Christmas Vacation".
"A Vermont Christmas Vacation" - Sunday, Nov. 27, at 9/8c PM
Cast: Abigail Hawk, Chevy Chase, David O'Donnell, Howard Hesseman, Morgan Fairchild, Zack Ward
Synopsis: Riley Thomas is sent by her profit-obsessed boss to shut down one of the company's holdings, a small outerwear company in Vermont, for missing profit targets. Riley finds that the company is the lifeblood of a town and, instead of closing down the iconic firm, she unexpectedly falls in love and learns valuable lessons beyond the bottom line.
Produced by: Hybrid Films
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15.) Believe
(added March 9, 2016) ---- According to the web-site, http://www.bdtonline.com, the Bluefield Daily Telegraph, they are currently filming the Christmas movie "Believe", starring Ryan O’Quinn, Kevin Sizemore, Shawnee Smith, and David DeLuise.
"Stars of the theatrical movie ‘Believe,’ which is now filming in Grundy, pose for a photo on the set of the film Friday. From left are Princeton native Kevin Sizemore, Grundy native Ryan O’Quinn, Shawnee Smith and David DeLuise."
Plot details according to the article, "O’Quinn is the star, playing a business owner trying to save the local Christmas pageant after his business is unexpectedly shut down, and he is the reason why the film crew is in Grundy." "Believe" will be released in November, 2016 in 1,200 to 1,500 theaters nationwide.
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16.) Christmas All Over Again (working title)
(added March 17, 2016) ---- According to the Milford Patch web-site, there is a Christmas themed move filming in their town - Milford, Connecticut. Former Disney Channel Actress, Christy Romano Rooney, (the smart Sister known as Christy Carlson Romano on the sitcom Even Stevens and the voice of the cartoon character Kim Possible) is directing a Christmas movie in Milford, her hometown, titled "Christmas All Over Again" (wt). Please note: the title could change before it's officially released.
According to milfordmirror.com, "the cast includes Christy Carlson Romano, Armani Jackson and Amber Montana, plus Sean Ryan Fox, Gabriel Rush, Todrick Hall, Massimo Dobrovic, Tom DeNucci, Joanna Koss, George Saunders, Chelsea Vale, Christopher Gray and Collin Smith." The Milford Patch web-site shared plot details for "Christmas All Over Again" (wt), via imdb, “A mischievous, swag-obsessed boy must overcome his inner Scrooge, or remain caught in a cycle where everyday is a Christmas without presents.”
Where this movie can be seen, is yet to be revealed... but imdb.com is reporting it will be released this year! Stay tuned!
Update: May 4, 2016: 2 New images released - while filming (via milfordmirror.com):
(via milfordmirror.com: Christy Carlson Romano during the shooting of Christmas All Over Again, in the home of local business owner Rich Conine. That’s Conine’s sofa. — Sweeney Photography
(via milfordmirror.com: The wedding scene from the movie, featuring a gowned Christy Carlson Romano. — Sweeney Photography
(added April 4, 2016) ---- This is a Christmas movie being made based on the short story collection Let It Snow by John Green (The Fault in Our Stars). We can expect this movie in theaters - December, 2016.
(UPDATE added April 15, 2016: This project has been delayed - it will now premiere in 2017! Thank you SleepyKittyPaws for sharing this news!)
NOTE: Movie rating currently unknown. Amazon lists the Book as follows... Age Range: 12 and up Grade Level: 7 and up
Book Synopsis/Storyline via wegotthiscovered.com: "Sparkling white snowdrifts, beautiful presents wrapped in ribbons, and multicolored lights glittering in the night through the falling snow. A Christmas Eve snowstorm transforms one small town into a romantic haven, the kind you see only in movies. Well, kinda. After all, a cold and wet hike from a stranded train through the middle of nowhere would not normally end with a delicious kiss from a charming stranger. And no one would think that a trip to the Waffle House through four feet of snow would lead to love with an old friend. Or that the way back to true love begins with a painfully early morning shift at Starbucks. Thanks to three of today’s bestselling teen authors—John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle—the magic of the holidays shines on these hilarious and charming interconnected tales of love, romance, and breathtaking kisses."
*A special "thank you" to SleepyKittyPaws for sharing this additiional Christmas movie news with all of us, in the comment section below!
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18.) Fight Before Christmas
(added April 4, 2016) ---- This new movie in the works is a Christmas Comedy. via Variety.com: "Broad Green Pictures is developing the comedy “The Fight Before Christmas” based on a pitch from “Daddy’s Home” writer Brian Burns.""The story centers on Mrs. Claus leaving Santa after 700 years of marriage and feeling unappreciated for her continued Christmas contributions. She departs just two weeks before the holiday — putting the fate of the holiday in jeopardy — so Santa flies from the North Pole to New York to win her heart back and save Christmas."No word, yet, on when this will premiere.
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19.) A Christmas Carol
(added April 4, 2016) ---- This all new adaption of the legendary, fictitious tale of Ebenezer Scrooge - has been reported via the Hollywood Reporter... "Director Bennett Miller and screenwriter Tom Stoppard are joining forces to bring a new version of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol to the big screen. The project, which will be a period piece set in the 19th century like Dickens’ original, is being developed for Megan Ellison’s Annapurna Pictures."
This version is said to be a more traditional, true to the Victorian period, storytelling of the well known classic. No word, yet, on who will be casted in this project, but it will be interesting to see who will play the role of Ebenezer Scrooge!
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20.)CHRISTMAS COOKIES (formerly known as: The Last Christmas)
(added April 6, 2016) ---- Actress Marci T House shared this on-the-set picture via Instagram, with the caption: "sleepwalker413: Nothing like shooting a Christmas movie in April. It's cold ❄️⛄️ #TheLastChristmas#Hallmark#LiveYourLife#LivingTheDream"
So, it looks like we can expect this movie (according to the hashtags used in the comment above!) to potentially be another new Hallmark Christmas movie!
Update: (added April 18, 2016) - What's Filming is reporting - "The Last Christmas" cast includes Jill Wagner, Chelsea Reist , and P. Lynn Johnson.
Update #2: (added April 20, 2016) - I had a hunch that actor Wes Brown (June in January) might be in this movie "The Last Christmas" after seeing a picture of him in Vancouver with other cast members, and this Instagram photo below shared by Sherry in California absolutely confirms it!
Storyline for Christmas Cookies via Hallmark Press Release: After Aunt Sally's Christmas Cookie Company is sold to a large conglomerate, executive Hannah (Jill Wagner) must seal the deal and shut down the factory , which is the small town of Cookie Jar's lifeblood. The residents know their beloved little hamlet will soon dry up and everyone will move away. What was supposed to be a simple assignment for Hannah becomes complicated when she meets Jake (Wes Brown), the factory owner determined to find a way to keep the factory in town and holds her at bay. Despite not being a fan of the holiday, the Christmas spirit in this small town is infectious and she gets swept up in the joy of the season while also falling for Jake. Will love make Hannah risk her job to save Cookie Jar?
Christmas Cookies Premieres Sunday, November 13th on the Hallmark Channel.
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21. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (animated)
(added April 15, 2016) ---- A new fully animated feature-length version of How the Grinch Stole Christmas from Illumination Entertainment, is in the works. It was just announced actor Benedict Cumberbatch (from the Sherlock TV Series) will be the voice of The Grinch. (source: movieweb) Chris Meledandri, of Illumination Entertainment, shared what we can expect in this new re-telling of this classic story... "What we've set out to do with this telling of the Grinch is make it both modern and traditional at the same time. When I say that I mean from a traditional standpoint, we've really tried to go back to what we perceive as the essence of what Ted Geisel was communicating. What I love about his work is that at the center of it, of all of his stories, are very, very simple and universal ideas. The last telling of the Grinch focused a little bit more on sort of the commercialization of Christmas and how the commercialization of Christmas can lead us down the wrong path. For me, in reading what Geisel wrote, I view it more from a character perspective. I think that the essence of this film is the notion of this cynicism comedically expressed in the Grinch and this absolute innocence represented in Cindy Lou, on a collision course with one another through the course of this movie. It's the simple question of whether or not innocence can transform cynicism. The beauty of that simplicity for me is what's at the heart of the movie..."
(Thank you Anonymous commenter for sharing this link below.)
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22.) Let there be Light
(added April 15, 2016) ---- According to cnsnews.com: "Kevin Sorbo is currently working on several projects, including "The Carpool Lane," which co-stars Dean Cain, and "Let There Be Light," a faith-based Christmas movie which will come out Christmas 2017."
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23.) A Wish for Christmas
(added April 21, 2016) ---- According to an article in People Magazine, Lacey Chabert will star in the Hallmark Christmas movie, "A Wish for Christmas"!
image credit: People Magazine, courtesy Lacey Chabert
CASTING UPDATE: (added April 25, 2016) Paul Greene will star with Lacey Chabert in "A Wish for Christmas"! Paul shared the news via Instagram and Facebook.
Storyline: Sara Shaw (Chabert) is the type of woman who prefers to sit on the sidelines at work, but when her big idea for a Christmas initiative is stolen, she makes a wish to Santa that she'll finally have the courage to stand up for herself. Santa grants her wish but only gives her 48 hours. She is able to reveal to Peter Williams (Greene), the handsome owner of her company, that her boss stole her idea. When Peter selects her to present the pitch to a difficult client they end up having to drive to the White Ridge Ski Resort, which happens to be Peter's hometown. Once there, Sarah sets out to show Peter the magic of Christmas. With all this time together, they wonder if there's more to this relationship than business. But as the clock ticks down on Sara's wish, she'll have to find a way to channel the Christmas magic and speak her mind on her own... or risk losing everything.
*Special thank you to Sherry in California for sharing all of this news + the on-the-set pics, too!
A WISH FOR CHRISTMAS Premieres Saturday, October 29th on the Hallmark Channel!
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24.) Almost Christmas
(added April 22, 2016) ----
Plot details via http://www.almostchristmasmovie.com/: "A new comedy from writer/director David E. Talbert (Baggage Claim) and producer Will Packer (Ride Along, Think Like a Man series, This Christmas), Almost Christmas tells the festive story of a beloved patriarch who asks his family for one gift this holiday season: to get along. If they can honor that wish and spend five days under the same roof without killing one another, it will be a Christmas miracle."
The all-star cast of Almost Christmas is led by Kimberly Elise, Omar Epps, Danny Glover, Romany Malco, Mo’Nique, Nicole Ari Parker, J.B. Smoove, Gabrielle Union, Jessie Usher and DC Young Fly.
image credit: Almost Christmas, via IMDB
Please Note: A Rating has not been revealed, yet, for this film.
In Theaters November 11, 2016.
*Thank you SleepyKittyPaws for sharing this news!
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25.) Candace Cameron Bure - Hallmark Christmas Movie: "Journey Back to Christmas"
(added April 23, 2016) ----
Candace fans will be excited to know, the actress recently revealed via Twitter- she has a Hallmark Christmas Movie planned again this year with Hallmark! Hallmark fans will remember her previous Christmas movies: "Moonlight and Mistletoe", "Let it Snow", "Christmas Under Wraps", and "A Christmas Detour".
Here's a screen-grab of the Q&A:
screen grab via: Twitter
Could this Christmas Movie be an "Aurora" mystery or something new? Stay tuned for details! *Thank you to Shirley S. for finding and sharing this bit of news!
UPDATE (September 26, 2016): Candace Cameron Bure recently shared the caption "Back to Christmas 1945", in an Instagram/Facebook post. (see it here!) Well, we didn't know it then, but she was actually revealing to us, at that moment, the title (or rather working title) of her currently filming Hallmark Christmas Movie!
with the Caption: "Merry Christmas from all of us and Happy Birthday to my magical pretend child 🌈 #BackToChristmas 🎄 #hallmark @hallmarkchannel"
(*Credit for Discovery of this Christmas Movie news, goes to Ioana A.!)
Candace's additional cast members are: Oliver Hudson, Meghan Heffern, and Gwynyth Walsh!
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26.) Operation Christmas
(added April 25, 2016) ----
This new Hallmark Christmas Movie will star Chelan Simmons ("Love by Chance", "Wedding Planner Mystery"). She recently shared details via Twitter!
screen-grab via Twitter
*Thank you to Sherry in California & Joyce in Carolina for sharing this awesome movie info!
*UPDATE: 5/13/16 - We learned that 'Operation Christmas' is also the Christmas Movie that stars Tricia Helfer. Additional Cast Members and Images below! (Thank you Sherry for helping me to confirm this news!)
Tricia Helfer, who starred in Hallmark's "Mistletoe Over Manhattan" and "Finding Christmas" recently shared via social media that she is starring in a new Christmas movie. Her co-stars are Marc Blucas, Megan Charp and Benjamin Wosk.
Here's some on-the-set pics! Looks like there is some skiing in this movie!
OPERATION CHRISTMAS
Premieres: Sunday, November 20th
Stars: Tricia Helfer (“Battlestar Galactica), Marc Blucas (“Buffy the Vampire Slayer”) and Lisa Durupt (“Murder She Baked”)
As her new romance blossoms, a single mother is dismayed when her boyfriend, a military sergeant, is deployed right before Christmas. Determined to not let it ruin the holidays for her and her children they decide to give back to the struggling military families on his base and, as their efforts go viral, they are rewarded in ways they never imagined.
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27.) A Doggone Christmas
(added April 25, 2016) ----
This movie was recently filmed and stars Amy Holt, Lauren Parkinson, Rib Hillis, Jaret Sacrey, Dominique Swain, Kelli Maroney, Walker Hudson Mintz, Jonathan Tysor, Jolie Ledford, Jayden Hedden, Dilan Patton, and Just Jessie the Dog as Murphy in A Doggone Christmas!
I have recently been in contact with Fearless Media Inc, the production company behind this film, and they have informed me - their film 'A Doggone Christmas' will be released on DVD - November 1st, 2016!
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28.) A Perfect Christmas - Hallmark
(added April 26, 2016) ----
Susie Abromeit (Snow Bride) and Becky Dalton, via Instagram
Rachel Wilson (Baby's First Christmas), Susie Abromeit (Snow Bride) and Becky Dalton, via Instagram
Susie Abromeit (Snow Bride) and Dillon Casey, via Instagram
Thank you to Sherry in California for finding these awesome on the set pics!
Click Here for more details on 'A Perfect Christmas' premiering July 16, 2016 during Christmas Keepsake week on the Hallmark Channel.
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29.) Girlfriends of Christmas Past (formerly known as Merry Exes)
(added April 27, 2016) ----
"Girlfriends of Christmas Past" (formerly known as "Merry Exes") is a Holiday Romantic Comedy from Marvista Entertainment production. Starring in "Merry Exes" are: Tammin Sursok, Brent Bailey, Lindsey McKeon, Abigail Klein, John Brotherton, Meagan Holder, Chris Salvatore & Bryce Durfee.
UPDATE (added July 17, 2016): Writer/director Jake Helgren informed me the title of this movie has been changed from "Merry Exes" to "Girlfriends of Christmas Past", and further details of where this will be seen this Christmas have yet to be released - so stay tuned!
image via: Facebook. Writer/director Jake Helgren on set with stars Tammin Sursok, Lindsey McKeon and Abigail Klein. Photo credit: Desiree Stone
Storyline via Facebook page for "Girlfriends of Christmas Past": "When three hilarious, strong-willed women join forces to seek the ultimate revenge on their cheating ex at his upcoming holiday retreat, lovestruck event planner Livvy meets Carter, the charming colleague organizing it all, leaving Livvy to question if she can leave off their revenge scheme long enough to finally forgive her ex and let a real holiday romance blossom." Stay tuned for more details for when & where to see this movie! Thank you to Gina for sharing the link to this movie!
UPDATE (September 23, 2016)-
"Girlfriends of Christmas Past" will be airing on UP-TV this Christmas! Premiere date: TBA!
(this news was shared with me by writer/producer/director Jake Helgren)
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30.) Heaven Sent
(added April 27, 2016) ----
Directed by Michael Landon Jr., “Heaven Sent” is about a couple whose troubled marriage gets a boost from an 8-year-old runaway from Heaven. (details via imdb) The film stars Marley Shelton, Christian Kane, Ernie Hudson, and Mallory James Mahoney.
Actors Ernie Hudson playing Donatello, and Mallory James Mahoney, playing Taylor, work on a scene of the film initially called "Christmastime," now known as "Heaven Sent," on the Pearl Street Mall in Boulder Nov. 14, 2014. (Paul Aiken / Daily Camera)
This film was previously delayed from being released, but is expected now to be released before Christmas 2016 – stay tuned for details! Thank you to Gina for sharing the link to this movie!
UPDATE: This will air on Lifetime this year! Details HERE!
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31.) Finding Father Christmas - Hallmark Christmas Movie Starring Erin Krakow
(added April 28, 2016) ----
Previously mentioned on my site, here! Erin Krakow shared on Home & Family that she would be back on the Hallmark Channel before the next new season of "When Calls the Heart" next year, in a Hallmark Channel "Countdown to Christmas" movie!
Erin Krakow in her previous Hallmark Christmas Movie, "A Cookie Cutter Christmas" - image: Hallmark Crown Media
Update #1: (June 14, 2016) Erin Krakow is starring in Hallmark's 'Finding Father Christmas'. Co-star still currently unknown. Erin has given clues and shared this cute pic via Instagram: SEE NEWS ON HER CO-STAR BELOW IMAGE....
Update #2: June 16, 2016 - Erin Krakow reveals via Twitter her co-star is Niall Matter (Stop the Wedding).
Thank you to Sherry, Joyce, and ALL the Hearties - who have informed me of this news!
Update #3: On June 22, 2016, Erin Krakow shared this cute on-the-set pic, via Instagram:
*'Finding Father Christmas' is based on the book, of the same name, by beloved author Robin Jones Gunn. Thank you Jennifer Rumberger for reminding me (in the comments below!) to share this news!
This paperback version also includes her story: 'Engaging Father Christmas':
FINDING FATHER CHRISTMAS
Premieres: Sunday, November 13th
Stars: Wendy Malick (“Hot in Cleveland”), Erin Krakow (“When Calls the Heart”), Niall Matter (“Eureka”) Storyline via Hallmark Press Release: Christmas for Miranda is a painful reminder of the family she never had. Her mother died when she was young, never revealing the identity of her father. But, three days before Christmas, she unexpectedly receives a clue as to the whereabouts that takes her to a beautiful New England town where she meets Ian, a young man who helps with her search. As the clues lead to her father's identity and Miranda discovers the possibility of love in Ian, and she learns that her father lived in the small town and now she knows his family (her brother and her biological father's wife). She faces a terrible decision... Should she share the truth and risk losing the family she has just found, or leave and keep the secret forever? This Christmas promises to be life-changing for Miranda with a new chance at life and love."
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32.) A December Bride - Hallmark Christmas Movie Starring Daniel Lissing
(added April 28, 2016) ----
Previously mentioned on my site, here! Daniel Lissing, along with his co-star Erin Krakow, from "When Calls the Heart", both announced when they were on the Hallmark Channel's Home & Family announcing the next season of "When Calls the Heart", also announced he would be in a Hallmark Christmas Movie. Daniel recently shared they would be filming soon! Stay tuned for details!
UPDATE: (added May 25, 2016) We first learned about the movie 'December Bride' on May 7, 2016 and now as they are filming this new movie from May 16, 2016 to June 3, 2016, we have learned the director and cast. The Director is David Winning, from 'Tulips in Spring' and the cast includes: Daniel Lissing, as anyone who watches the Hallmark Channel knows, portrays Mounte Jack Thornton on the popular on-going television drama series 'When Calls the Heart'. Jessica Lowndes starred in the Hallmark Christmas movie 'Merry Matrimony' and April Telek has starred in two (of my personal favorites!) Hallmark Holiday/Christmas movies: 'Love at the Thanksgiving Day Parade' and 'Signed, Sealed, Delivered: For Christmas'!
(Thank you Sherry in California for the filming update & your movie reminders!)
Storyline via Hallmark Press Release: Layla O'Reilly (Lowndes) is bound and determined to attend her cousin's Christmastime wedding with a man on her arm - especially since her cousin is marrying her ex-fiancé. Seth Murphy (Lissing) is the only guy available, who Layla dislikes since he introduced the bride and groom. But since Seth is able to help Layla with her interior design business she and Seth stage being a newly engaged couple. As Layla helps Seth makeover a house for a Christmas decorating contest, Layla discovers Seth is not who he seems to be and that he has had a secret crush on her for years. Is it possible the man of her dreams has been in her midst all this time? She just might get her wish of becoming a December bride. Based on the book by bestselling author Denise Hunter.
33.) 'MERRY CHRISTMAS, BABY' (The 4th Chandler Family Christmas Movie on UP)
(added May 7, 2016) The network UP has a survey they send out to viewers. In the latest questionnaire they asked viewers what title the next Chandler Family Christmas movie should have and they gave a plot synopsis for this new film.
Image via: UP
Movie Description via UP- (beware includes potential movie spoilers)!
"The Chandler family is back! This holiday season, the family finds themselves in new and interesting places. Marci and Elizabeth have quit their well-paying jobs and formed an event planning business that is off to a rocky start. Elizabeth is missing having money for her personal luxuries and Marci wants her daughter Chandler's first Christmas/first birthday to be a huge celebration but cannot afford it. They are hugely relieved when a big event job comes their way only to find out that the person hiring them is Marci's nemesis, Adam Reid!
Stephanie, missing her boyfriend who is on a mission job, is feeling bored, lonely and unneeded. She starts to help Blair who is struggling in his solo law practice and finds that she is a huge organizational help to him. But even more than that, she is just what Blair needs right now as he is missing his deceased mother, especially as his daughter is about to have her first Christmas.
Myra and Donald are heartbroken that their daughter and her family are not able to come home for the holidays. They decide to make a major life change and adopt Denny who lives at a children's home and is already a part of their lives.
As Marci realizes how much Blair misses his parents, how Stephanie has given her husband love and support and how thrilled Denny is to be with a family at Christmas, she abandons her over-the-top Christmas for Chandler. She decides to donate all the gifts to the children's home and give her daughter the best holiday gift - love and family."
I contacted UP to see if it would be okay to share this Christmas Movie information with all of you publicly and was given approval. As always, I am excited to share any family Christmas movie news!
We will have to keep a look out for the official title name, as I know they are trying to narrow one down. One of the titles given was "Baby's First Christmas", which I liked, but reminded them - the Hallmark Channel already did a movie with this title a few years ago.
Update May 10, 2016: UP has officially announced via press release- THE CHANDLER FAMILY REUNITES AS PRODUCTION BEGINS IN ATLANTA ON 'MERRY CHRISTMAS, BABY'! This is the fourth movie in UP’s Highly Successful 'Marry Me for Christmas' Chandler Family Franchise.
Details excerpted via UP Press Release: "Production is underway in Atlanta on the UP Original Movie Merry Christmas, Baby, a romantic comedy starring Malinda Williams (A Baby for Christmas, “Soul Food”), Victoria Rowell (Marry Me for Christmas, “The Young and the Restless”) and Karon Riley (Marry US for Christmas, 35 and Ticking). The film reunites the ensemble cast which includes GregAlan Williams (“Necessary Roughness,” “The West Wing”), Chrystale Wilson (Marry US for Christmas, “For Richer or Poorer”) and DeEtta West (Lyfe’s Journey, A Baby for Christmas).
“We’re delighted to bring Victoria Rowell, Malinda Williams and the rest of the talented cast back to UP this holiday season,” said Barbara Fisher, svp, original programming, UP. “In Merry Christmas, Baby, viewers will continue their journey with the Chandler family as they see the joy of not only gearing up for the holidays, but also planning an unforgettable first birthday party.”
UP’s Marry Me for Christmas franchise includes 'Marry Me for Christmas', 'Marry US for Christmas' and 'A Baby for Christmas', all of which set premiere ratings milestones for the network."
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34.) 'Dolly Parton’s Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love'
(added May 12, 2016) NBC is wisely capitalizing on the huge success of last years 'Dolly Parton's Coat of Many Colors' ratings success with a Christmas themed sequel, titled: 'Dolly Parton’s Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love'... coming this Christmas!
image via: NBC
Returning for this new original made-for-TV movie are the original cast... Ricky Schroder, who portrayed Dolly's father Robert Lee Parton, Jennifer Nettles, who portrayed Dolly's mother Avie Lee Parton, Gerald McRaney as Grandpa Jake Owens, and Alyvia Alyn Lind, who was dynamic in the original film, as young Dolly Parton!
NBC released this storyline description:
"The film delivers Christmas joy and peril as an unexpected blizzard threatens the Parton family, while at the same time Dolly’s father (and his kids) make sacrifices to raise enough money to finally buy his loving wife the wedding ring he could never afford to give her. Meanwhile, an important person in little Dolly’s life begins to see that her amazing voice and musical gift might just be made for something bigger than rural Tennessee."
Update - June 29, 2016: According to Variety.com, Disney Star Kelli Berglund ("Lab Rats", “Lab Rats Elite Force”, "How to Build a Better Boy") has been casted as the eldest daughter, Willadeene Parton, in NBC's 'Dolly Parton's Christmas of Many Colors'.
Kelli Berglund's image via twist magazine
UPDATE: August 25, 2016 'Dolly Parton’s Christmas of Many Colors: Circle of Love' will air November 30, 2016 on NBC.
*Dolly Parton will have a role in this movie.
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35.) 'Terrific Truck Saves Christmas'
(added May 14, 2016) This will be in development - May 25th through June 10th, via actratoronto.com.
According to globalnews.ca, 'Terrific Trucks' is a program for preschoolers, "a live-action series, which uses real vehicles (with animated eyes). It is set to air on the network Sprout in 2016."
This has been listed as a TV Movie / Special.
It will premiere Thanksgiving week on SPROUT.
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36.) Ashley Williams - Hallmark Christmas Movie?
(added May 18, 2016) Recently, while chatting with some devoted Hallmarks fans via Twitter, actress Ashley Williams (October Kiss) revealed by tweeting Christmas Tree emoji's that she will be starring in a Hallmark Christmas Movie!
*This was a fun Twitter chat with Jessica Slattery, Abby Flink, and Ashley Williams! Thanks also goes to our great movie detective Sherry, for sharing this news with me- to share with all of you!
More news will surely be forthcoming, so stay tuned for further details!
UPDATE (Sept, 2016): Ashley's movie, she was tweeting about, is not a Christmas movie about Christmas Trees (as we had previously, wrongly interpreted from the emoji's in her tweet). Instead, it's a Hallmark "Fall Harvest" themed movie about saving a tree, from being cut down.
It appears Ashley will not be in a Christmas movie this year, after all. Maybe next year!
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37.) "Christmas with the Andersons" (formerly known as "Christmas in the Red")
(added June 4, 2016) This movie looks like a fun Christmas movie, starring...
George Stults (from "I'm Not Ready for Christmas"), Christy Romano (who also filmed another Christmas Movie recently, which is featured above: "Christmas All Over Again"), Julie Brown, Kathleen Gati, and Susan J. Attiyah
This movie will premiere on ION this Christmas season. (update September 20, 2016)
via ION Press Release:
"Christmas with the Andersons" - Premieres Saturday, Dec. 10, at 9/8c PM on ION.
Cast: George Stults, Christy Carlson Romano, Ion Overman, Dale Godboldo, Julie Brown, Caia Coley, Barry Livingston.
Synopsis: Drowning in tinsel and lights every Christmas, Michael and Caroline Anderson throw the year's biggest party at their house. But this year, with Michael jobless and Caroline's store struggling, that tradition may end. The Andersons decide to host a very different kind of party and, in the process, rediscover what's most important about the holiday.
Produced by: MarVista Entertainment
Storyline: After enduring a horrible break-up with the man she thought she was destined to marry, Fiona Williams takes a trip to her parents' inn for Christmas. Holiday festivities and family bonding seem to be the only thing on the menu, but then Fiona's ex checks in to the inn with a new woman on his arm. Stuck between a rock and mistletoe, Fiona saves face by making the inn's opinionated and care-free cook her new "boyfriend" in hopes of making her ex jealous.
*This movie will not be airing this Christmas (2016). Maybe next year!
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39.) 'A FAMILY FOR CHRISTMAS'
(added June 8, 2016)
via Hallmark Press Release:
Storyline: Several days before Christmas, a reclusive author Andrew rents an isolated cabin in order to finish his long overdue novel. Just as Andrew is settling in, a young nurse named Holly, her daughter and wisecracking mother become stranded nearby. Andrew takes in the three unwanted guests and due to a heavy snowstorm, they end up staying through Christmas. The energetic young nurse breaks down Andrew's anti-social defenses. They soon find themselves involved in a number of festive activities, including chopping down a Christmas tree, a snowball fight, playing charades and gatherings around the dinner table. But the sudden arrival of Holly's ex-husband complicates matters and threatens her blossoming romance with Andrew.
*This movie will not be airing this Christmas (2016). Maybe next year!
*According to imdb, this will premiere in 2017.
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40.) 'A PRINCE FOR CHRISTMAS'
(added June 8, 2016)
via Hallmark Press Release:
Stars: Jaime Pressley ("My Name is Earl")
Storyline: When Maggie Marks (Pressley) faces a tough career decision, she flees to Europe for some soul searching and sightseeing with a friend over the holidays. There she encounters a handsome European playboy prince and lands herself in a world she has never known where she finds a new direction in life, while teaching him to be a better prince along the way.
*This movie will not be airing this Christmas (2016). Maybe next year!
During an interview with Yahoo TV (on their Facebook Page) actress Alicia Witt, when asked if she would be doing another Hallmark Christmas Movie, she answered - "I'm going to go ahead and say probably..."
screen grab via: https://www.facebook.com/YahooTV video
Hmmm? That's not a No or Yes. So, "I'm going to go ahead and say"... we *potentially* could see Alicia Witt in another Hallmark Christmas Movie this year! For now we will have to stay tuned to see! Obviously, nothing has been officially announced. Alicia previously starred in the Hallmark Christmas movies: "A Very Merry Mix-Up", "Christmas at Cartwrights", and "I'm Not Ready for Christmas". (*Thank you to Sherry in California for finding and sharing this bit of Christmas movie news!)
UPDATE (July 27, 2016): It was announced at Hallmark's TCA event: Alicia Witt will star in the Hallmark Christmas movie "Christmas Bucket List"!
(added June 8, 2016)
via Hallmark Press Release:
Storyline: Isobel Gray plans a storybook Christmas with her boyfriend, including a snow-covered cottage in the Northwest, and a carefully composed bucket list of classic holiday traditions. But when the boyfriend goes AWOL, the list proves challenging and a tempting new romance turns her life upside down. Will Isobel have a White Christmas ending under the mistletoe?
*Alicia Witt's co-star will be Gabriel Hogan (Heartland). They also starred together in Hallmark's "Christmas at Cartwright's".
*'Christmas List' Premieres November 24, 2016 - Thanksgiving Day, on the Hallmark Channel!
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42.) "Every Christmas has a Story" (formerly 'CHRISTMAS MAKEOVER')
(added June 8, 2016)
via Hallmark Press Release:
Stars: Lori Loughlin ("When Calls the Heart," "Fuller House"), Colin Ferguson ("Debbie Macomber's Cedar Cove," "Eureka"), Willie Ames ("Eight is Enough", "Harvest Moon"), and Lori's real-life daughter Isabella "Bella" Giannulli
Storyline: When a TV personality (Loughlin) has an on-air snafu and admits she hates Christmas, she is invited to the Most Christmas-y town in the US to try and repair her image. Forced to work with her ex-boyfriend Jack (Ferguson), the show's producer, the magic of Christmas and this special town will change the way she views Christmas and her life.
Actor Willie Ames shared this fun set pic, via Twitter:
via Hallmark:
EVERY CHRISTMAS HAS A STORY
Premieres Saturday, November 12th
Starring: Lori Loughlin (Fuller House), Colin Ferguson (Eureka), Willie Aames (Charles in Charge)
A TV personality (Loughlin) has an on-air snafu and admits she hates Christmas. Following the debacle, she is invited to the Most Christmas-y town in America to try and repair her image. Forced to work with her ex-boyfriend Jack (Ferguson), the show’s producer, the magic of Christmas and this special town will change the way she views Christmas and her life.
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43.) 'JOY TO THE WORLD'
(added June 8, 2016)
via Hallmark Press Release:
Stars: Brooke Shields ("Flower Shop Mystery")
Storyline: Joy Edwards (Shields), host of a wildly successful cooking show "Joy to the World," must scramble to assemble a fake family when the network insists on doing a live Christmas episode from her house. Before long, she realizes her fake family is the Christmas gift she always wanted.
*This movie will not be airing this Christmas (2016). Maybe next year!
Stars: Danica McKellar ("Wonder Years") and David Haydn-Jones (A Cookie Cutter Christmas), and Christian Convery
Storyline: Christina Masters (McKellar), the manager of a flagship department store, is overjoyed when she finds out her company is hiring a new manager for the Paris store and is looking to promote from within. This is a dream job and the ever-ambitious Christina sets out to impress with holiday decorations galore. Things change, though, when her heart is won over by a little boy who asks the storefront Santa for help in finding his dad a new job. As it turns out, Christina has just fired this man for being late one too many times but she now realizes he is a single parent just trying his best to take care of his son. Christina is bound and determined to make things right and, to her surprise, finds herself falling in love. When Christina wows with this year's Christmas decorations and wins the dream job, she has a tough choice to make as she learns the true meaning of happiness.
UPDATE added June 25, 2016:
Co-starring in the movie is Deidre Hall.
UPDATE: (September 6, 2016) Potential New Title: My Christmas Dream, according to IMDB.
(Thanks to Sherry for finding this info & the picture above!)
via Hallmark:
MY CHRISTMAS DREAM
Starring: Danica McKellar (Wonder Years), David Haydn-Jones (A Cookie Cutter Christmas), Deidre Hall (Days of Our Lives)
Christina Masters (McKellar), the manager of McDougal’s flagship department store, is determined to land the manager position for their new Paris location. She sets out to impress Victoria (Hall), the store’s owner, by creating the best holiday display in McDougal’s history. Fresh out of inspiration despite assuring Victoria otherwise, Christina turns to a recently-fired store employee (Haydn-Jones) who also happens to be a talented artist and single dad to his young son. As they work side-by-side, the business relationship becomes personal and she finds herself falling in love. Will the allure of her dream be too strong or will she choose to follow her heart?
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45.) I'll Be Home For Christmas (formerly 'PAIR OF JACKS')
(added June 8, 2016)
via Hallmark Press Release:
Stars: James Brolin ("Hotel," "Catch Me If You Can", "Christmas with Tucker", "When Calls the Heart"), Mena Suvari, Jacob Blair, John Reardon ("Love on the Sidelines"), and young Giselle Eisenberg
Storyline: Jackie Foster is smart, organized and professional. She has the perfect life...until her dad, Jack (Brolin), a retired cop who is crusty on the outside but a softy on the inside, returns home. He reluctantly agrees to stay for Christmas, and despite the baggage he brings - a dog, beat-up motorhome and some old wounds - they ultimately reconnect as a family and share a warm, love-filled holiday. Not only that, but Jack introduces her to a detective that helps Jackie avoid a potentially disastrous match with the wrong man.
UPDATE: June 24, 2016: According to an article on BroadwayWorld.com, this movie will air on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries!
Mena Suvari and Jacob Blair on set of 'Pair of Jacks'
*Thank you Sherry for finding the additional info on this movie!
via Hallmark:
I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS
Premieres: Sunday, November 27th
Starring: James Brolin (Life In Pieces), Mena Suvari (American Beauty), Giselle Eisenberg (Life in Pieces)
Jackie Foster (Suvari), a dynamic Assistant District Attorney and single mom, is looking forward to wrapping up her latest case and spending Christmas with Gracie (Eisenberg), her adorable and precocious, eight-year old daughter. But when Jackie’s estranged dad, Jack (Brolin), a gruff retired police officer, unexpectedly shows up at her door, they will be forced to confront old wounds. Tensions rise when Jack brings Nose, a mischievous former police dog, into Jackie’s orderly home. Though Jack had planned on quickly passing through, Gracie convinces him to stay until Christmas. Despite the baggage he brings, Jack and Jackie begin to work through their issues and she finds the possibility of an unlikely romance with a detective friend of Jack’s. As they experience the magic of Christmas together, they attempt to let go of their past and celebrate this loving holiday the way Jackie always dreamed.
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46.) 'When Calls the Heart' Christmas Movie!
(added June 23, 2016)
Actor Jack Wagner shared the news on the Hallmark Channel web-site - Hallmark has officially announced they will have...
a 'When Calls the Heart' CHRISTMAS MOVIE this upcoming Christmas Season!!!
*A Special "Thank You" to my Sweet Sis for first sharing this news with me!
Update August 3, 2016, via Hallmark Press Release:
'WHEN CALLS THE HEART' premieres Sunday, December 25 (9 p.m. ET/PT)
Stars: Erin Krakow ("Army Wives"), Daniel Lissing ("Last Resort"), Jack Wagner ("The Bold and the Beautiful") and Lori Loughlin ("Fuller House," "90210")
Storyline: Although the residents of Hope Valley have been busily preparing for the most festive Christmas the town has ever had, bad weather gets in the way of their plans. Not to be discouraged, the townspeople come together to create a special holiday celebration - complete with a Nativity presentation by the schoolchildren - that will infuse everyone with the true spirit of the season.
More details via Hallmark: WHEN CALLS THE HEART: CHRISTMAS
Premieres Sunday, December 25th
Starring: Erin Krakow (Army Wives), Daniel Lissing (Last Resort), Jack Wagner (Melrose Place) and Lori Loughlin (Fuller House)
An intriguing peddler comes to Hope Valley selling the townspeople his wears and teaching them valuable lessons about joy and giving. And when the townspeople realize that the recently displaced settlers in the area will not have a proper Christmas, they come together to create a special holiday celebration – including a Nativity presentation from the schoolchildren — that will infuse everyone with the true spirit of Christmas.
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47.) Married by Christmas / The Engagement Clause
UPDATE (July 8, 2016): THIS MOVIE IS ALSO CALLED: The Engagement Clause
(thank you Gina - for discovering this additional title)
(added June 23, 2016)
Movie Details via Marvista:
"When it comes to her work, Carrie Tate takes herself very seriously. She has dedicated her entire life to growing Emerson Foods, the high-end food distribution company founded by her father, and doesn’t have much time for a social life. Carrie’s sister Katie, on the other hand, is a gourmet food-to-table restaurateur and marrying her boyfriend on Christmas Eve. However, due to an outdated stipulation in their grandmother’s will, it’s discovered that ownership of the company will pass to whichever sister marries first. Now, Carrie must get married by Christmas or kiss her family business goodbye! After a series of misguided and wacky plans, she finds love in Dylan, the lawyer who should be her enemy. But with Christmas approaching and the business at stake, will Carrie elope in time or will all of her hard-earned holiday work be for nothing?"
Starring: Jes Macallan, April Bowlby, Coby Ryan McLaughlin, James Eckhouse
*Discovery of this movie goes to Paul McPane of the Facebook group: Fans of Hallmark Channel & Hallmark Movies & Mysteries. (Thank you Sherry for sharing this info with me!)
UPDATE - July 1, 2016:Worldscreen is reporting this Marvista Film is officially going to be an UP Christmas Movie!
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48.) Firehouse Christmas
(added June 25, 2016)
whatsfilming.ca has this movie listed as an upcoming movie to start filming from July 10 to July 23, 2016!
*Thank you to Joyce in Carolina for sharing this news!
UPDATE (July 20, 2016): From Marcus Rosner's Conversation with fans (Hearties) via Twitter, Nicole W. learned that this new Christmas movie will be premiering on Lifetime! (see update below!)
Cast includes Anna Hutchison, Marcus Rosner, Ben Watson Jr, Anita Brown, and Jaeda Lily Miller
*Thank you to Joyce in Carolina for sharing this on-set image!
via ION Press Release:
"A Firehouse Christmas" - Saturday, Dec. 3, at 9/8c PM
Cast: Anna Hutchison, Marcus Rosner, Anita Brown, Bruce Dawson
Synopsis: With Christmas approaching, life appears to be good for Tom, an ex-Olympic hockey star, and his girlfriend, Jenny, a firefighter -- at least until Mary, a former Olympic figure skater, Tom's soon-to-be ex-wife and the author of a book of tips on relationships, is convinced that appearing to be still happy with Tom will help sell her book. Tom's strong desire to spend the holidays with his and Mary's daughter provides a test of true love and, ultimately, reveals who the true heroes are.
Produced by: Odyssey Media Inc., and distributed by Reel One Entertainment Inc.
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49.) A Heavenly Christmas (Previously known as: Christmas Angel in Training - Hallmark Hall of Fame Christmas Movie
QUOTE: "This Thanksgiving Weekend, we have an ALL new Hallmark Hall of Fame Christmas movie world premiere! Details coming later this summer. We wanted *you* to be the first to know!"
*Credit- Thank you Lucille for sharing this Christmas Movie info!
UPDATE (July 27, 2016): Hallmark announced their Hall of Fame movie at their TCA Summer Event:
"Christmas Angel in Training" tells the story of the untimely death of a workaholic who never put much value into personal relationships or the joys of Christmas who finds herself recruited to be a Christmas Angel even though she hasn’t participated in seasonal traditions on earth in a very long time. She is assigned a hard luck case, though she has little success in helping her charge find joy, happiness, and peace – until she begins to discover these things within herself.
A Heavenly Christmas
Premieres Saturday, November 26th
Starring: Kristin Davis, Eric McCormack, Shirley MacLaine
UPDATE (October 3, 2016): the Movie Title has changed to A Heavenly Christmas
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50.) Salted Christmas
(added July 8, 2016)
Genre: Christian Comedy
Directed By: Don McChesney
Release Date: November 2017
(added July 9, 2016) Director David Winning shared via Twitter:
"Signed to direct #nytimes #Bestseller "The #MistletoePromise" @richardpaulevan @RichardPEvans #setlife #Director"
This movie will be based on the Bestseller Book by the same name 'The Mistletoe Promise', by Richard Paul Evans, who is also author of 'The Christmas Box'.
UPDATE (July 20, 2016): Cast includes Jaime King, Luke McFarlane, Erin Boyes
According to imdb.com: 'Cedar Cove' actress Sarah Smyth is also starring in this Christmas Movie - 'Mistletoe Promise'!
Sarah Smyth shared this tweet via Twitter:
"Shooting a @hallmarkchannel Christmas movie in a school look what I found in the teacher's lounge...@debbiemacomber"
*Credit- Thank you Sherry for discovering & sharing this Christmas Movie info! And, credit goes to Iona Anger from the Hallmark Facebook group, who shared the discovery of Sarah being in 'Mistletoe Promise' on IMDB.
MISTLETOE PROMISE
Premieres Saturday, November 5th
Starring: Jaime King (Hart of Dixie), Luke Macfarlane (Brothers and Sisters)
A chance meeting between two strangers who share a disdain for Christmas results in The Mistletoe Promise, a pact to help them navigate their holiday complications – together. But as they spend more time with each other and experience the magic of Christmas the phony couple discovers there may be more to their contract than business. Based on the bestselling novel by Richard Paul Evans.
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52.) Sleigh Bell Sweethearts
Author Teri Wilson ('Unleashing Mr. Darcy) shared this Christmas Movie News via Facebook:
"BIG EXCITING NEWS! My book Sleigh Bell Sweethearts for Harlequin Love Inspired is currently in development with the Hallmark Channel! It looks like we'll have a Christmas movie coming out this year!!! *tosses snowflake confetti* "
*Credit for discovery goes to Abby from the Hallmark Facebook Fan Group! (and, thank you Sherry for passing this info my way!)
*This movie will not be airing this Christmas (2016). Maybe next year!
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53.) Holiday Joy Starring Bailee Madison
UPDATE (July 21, 2016): As I mentioned above... While we are all still on NORTHPOLE 3 WATCH for this Christmas Season, or next year... I am excited to share with you all that BAILEE MADISON will be starring in an all new original Made-for-TV Christmas Movie this 2016 Christmas Season on Freeform (the newly named ABC Family).
FYI: Holiday Joy was previously titled: Different Folks!
Here's a synopisis of the 'Different Folks' storyline via Deadline.com: "The comedy, penned by Holly Goldberg Sloan (Made In America, Angels In The Outfield), centers on a shy high school student (Madison) who has been struggling to hold her family together after her mother’s death a few years earlier, becoming a surrogate mother to her father and brothers. During the holidays, she wishes she could have a “perfect life” like the one she sees her neighbors the Wellmans have. When a freak accident of mystical proportions suddenly grants Abby her wish, she instantly becomes part of the Wellman family. She soon finds out that her new life isn’t exactly how she was expecting it to be."
image via: celeb mafia - Bailee Madison – ‘Northpole – Open For Christmas’ Screening in Los Angeles
*Credit for discovery goes to Tiffany W. from the Hallmark Facebook Fan Group! (and, thank you Sherry for passing this info my way!)
*Holiday Joy will air on Freeform this Christmas Season. Details HERE!
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54.) Christmas Villa
The Hallmark Channel Movie 'Summer Villa' may sequel into 'Christmas Villa'!!!
The very first sign of this potentially taking place was discovered by - Sherry in California, who mentioned it to me back in May!, when she noticed Christmas Villa mentioned in an Instagram post, while the cast was filming #SummerVilla!
image via: Instagram
Quote: "Next time I'll be there for Christmas Villa!"
Then, after the premiere of 'Summer Villa', Lisa C. from the Hallmark Facebook Fan Group, shared she discovered a tweet from entertainment reporter Rachael Ellenbogen, who shared some exciting news on 'Christmas Villa'!
The Tweet reads:
"#OTH's Hilarie Burton said today that @hallmarkchannel is planning a Christmas sequel to tonight's #SummerVilla & I already can't wait." -Rachael Ellenbogen
(By the way, for those who may not know, OTH stands for 'One Tree Hill', which was a popular drama television series from 2003 to 2012. Hilarie Burton was one of the cast members who recently reunited for a fan convention.)
So... that is the news we know, so far, on Christmas Villa! Gauging on how much everyone loved 'Summer Villa'... I'm sure a sequel would be most welcome into everyone's homes - this Christmas!!!
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55.) Frozen Holiday Special
According to universityherald.com: Before "Frozen 2" is expected to hit the theatres in 2018, although there is no official confirmation and speficic day yet from Disney. The famed movie's fans can instead look forward to the upcoming "Frozen" holiday special, which will be airing on ABC in Christmas 2017."
Stay tuned! Do you wanna build a Snowman, again????
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56.) Disney's Nutcracker movie: "The Nutcracker and the Four Realms"
According to teenvogue.com, "The Nutcracker may have been performed on stage countless times, but now Disney is bringing it to the big screen once more. Earlier this month, legendary dancer Misty Copeland made the exciting announcement on Instagram that she'd be a part of the production, as the lead ballerina."
Mackenzie Foy will portray the lead role of Clara.
UPDATE: THIS MOVIE WILL BE RELEASED IN 2018 and will be called: "The Nutcracker and the Four Realms"
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57.) My Christmas Love (originally known as Christmas Expectations.)
via Hallmark Press Release: 'CHRISTMAS EXPECTATIONS' premieres Saturday, December 10. (premiere date - update below!)
A hopeless romantic who never seems to give a guy a fair chance starts receiving each gift from the song "The 12 Days of Christmas" compliments of an anonymous benefactor. She tries to solve the mystery with the help of her inner circle, including her sister who's about to have a Christmas wedding, to see if there's a suitor on the other end that will finally live up to her expectations.
Cast includes: Meredith Hagner, Megan Park, Bobby Campo, Aaron O'Connell and Gregory Harrison.
Actresses Megan Park and Meredith Hagner recently shared on Instagram:
Here's some on-the-set pics:
Meredith Hagner on set of Christmas Movie, via Instagram
Caption: meganparkithere When @merediththeweasel asks you to come play her sister in a movie you always say YESYESYESYES 😍😍😍
Meredith Hagner and Megan Park on set of Christmas Movie, via Instagram
Caption: merediththeweasel: Fake sister love and sleep deprived nap sesh with this dream @meganparkithere 💕💕💕💕
(Thanks for sharing these, Sherry!)
Update September 20, 2016:
From this article at Standard Examiner, it looks like this movie has/had an alternate title: "12 Days".
According to Hallmark's last press release, "Christmas Expectations" will now premiere December 17th!
CHRISTMAS EXPECTATIONS
Premieres Saturday, December 17th
Starring: Meredith Hagner (Veep), Bobby Campo (Scream: The TV Series), Gregory Harrison (Rizzoli & Isles)
Christmas Expectations is about a hopeless romantic who can’t ever seem to give a guy a real chance, that is until she starts receiving each of the ‘12 Days of Christmas’ as gifts anonymously at her door (yes, from the song… a partridge, leaping lords, milking maids… 5 golden rings!!). It’s a fun mystery that she tries to solve with her core group (including her sister who’s about to have a Christmas wedding) to see if there’s a suitor on the other end to finally live up to her expectations.
UPDATE (October 3, 2016): The Movie title has changed to My Christmas Love.
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58.) Broadcasting Christmas (Previously known as: A Christmas Broadcast)
Storyline: Two rival reporters get caught up in a competition to see who can report the most newsworthy holiday story. The real breaking news they discover is the truth about the meaning of Christmas - it really is better to give than to receive. But unfolding before their very eyes may be the best holiday story of all -two fierce competitors were able to put aside their differences and fall in love.
UPDATE: (October 8, 2016) This may be the currently filming Christmas Movie 'Love in the Newsroom' starring Dean Cain and Melissa Joan Hart.
UPDATE: (October 11, 2016) Dean Cain revealed during in an interview on Fox News, October 6th, the name and air date to his upcoming Hallmark movie. The movie is tiled: Broadcasting Christmas and it will air on the Hallmark Channel Thanksgiving week - Sunday night, November 27th!
I was able to locate the video clip of Dean's interview on-line. If you would like to watch the entire video - click here!
Storyline: Isabelle's quest to locate the handsome owner of a lost necklace prompts her to launch a search via social media. As she meets the mystery man's friends and learns more about him she discovers what an extraordinary person he is and begins to fall in love.
Update: October 3, 2017 This will now be a Hallmark movie in 2017! Storyline has also been changed.
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59.) A Nutcracker Christmas (originally known as: Nutcracker)
Storyline: Lilly James' lifelong devotion lands her the lead role of Clara in the New York City Ballet's production of The Nutcracker. Grief-stricken and distracted after learning about her mother's death, Lily suffers an injury and is removed from the show by Mark, her boyfriend and dance partner. Heartbroken and betrayed, Lily vows never to dance again. Years later, her daughter lands the role of Clara in the prestigious Philadelphia Nutcracker Ballet and finds that the Ballet Director is Mark, who betrayed Lilly years ago. Faced with the truth about her past and Lilly has a chance to dance and to find love again.
THE NUTCRACKER (working title)
Premieres Saturday December 10th
Starring: Amy Acker (Person of Interest), Sascha Radetsky (Flesh and Bone)
UPDATE (October 3, 2016): The Movie title has changed to A Nutcracker Christmas.
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60.) Sleigh Bells Ring (Previously: Runaway Sleigh)
Storyline: Recently divorced, Pauline struggles to get into the holiday spirit while heading up her hometown Christmas parade. With the help of a Christmas sleigh and a handsome woodworker, Pauline is destined to turn her luck around, rekindle her holiday spirit and even find time for love.
Cast: Erin Cahill and David Alpay (thanks for sharing Sherry!)
THE SOUND OF CHRISTMAS
Premieres: Sunday, December 11th
Lizzie is a young piano teacher working at a music school while trying to save enough money for a Steinway piano. The school is gearing up for their major Christmas fundraiser and she has committed much of her time to plan the event. One afternoon, she meets Brad who takes an interest in her playing and asks if she will teach his uninterested teenage daughter. She begins to break through to the young girl, and sparks begin to fly with Brad, but she is shocked to find out that his interest is not solely in her playing, but in the property that houses the music school. She sets out to save the school and the event, but can she work things out with Brad?
UPDATE: (October 17, 2016) - Lindy Booth and Robin Dunne will be starring in The Sound Of Christmas, announced by EW.
*Thank you Shirley for this casting update!
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62.) A Rose For Christmas (Previously known as: Rose Parade New Year)
(This Movie probably isn't a Christmas Movie, but it sounds like it will celebrate New Years!)
'ROSE PARADE NEW YEAR' - Sunday, January 1, 2017 (9 p.m. ET/PT)
Storyline: A career setback prompts a woman to move back home to Pasadena at Christmas. She finds renewed purpose volunteering to help build a Rose Parade Float, only to discover she has to work side-by-side her ex-fiancé who is heading the float's construction.
(added June 8, 2016) Actress Rachel Boston (Stop the Wedding, Ice Sculpture Christmas) shared via Twitter - she might be in an upcoming Hallmark Christmas movie!
UPDATE: (September 9, 2016) Rachel Boston reveals via Instagram she will be starring in Hallmark's 'Rose Parade New Year'.
UPDATE: (September 14, 2016) This movie will also star Marc Bendavid (Summer in the City). (Thank you for the info, Sherry)
via Hallmark:
ROSE PARADE NEW YEAR (working title)
Premieres Sunday, January 1st
Starring: Rachel Boston (In Plain Sight)
Andy (Boston) is a passionate and talented artist whose Pasadena family has been building Rose Parade floats for generations. But when her Dad gets sick and can’t lead this year’s efforts as usual, Andy has no choice but to take the helm and supervise the construction and decoration of their client’s float over Christmas with only a few weeks to go. And to make matters worse, she’s saddled with the extra challenge of dealing with Cliff, a demanding businessman whose company commissioned the float. Forced to work together, these two can’t help but clash – she’s a creative type who knows this flower-strewn process inside out, while he’s all business with no time for art. But working side-by-side over Christmas, they each learn the other is not who they seem. And together, with a ragtag team of volunteers, they might just have what it takes to create a magnificent Rose Parade float… IF they can pull it together by New Year’s.
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63.) Hearts of Christmas (Previously known as: Each Precious Heartbeat)
From details shared on social media, this appears to be a Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Christmas Movie starring Crystal Lowe (Signed, Sealed, Delivered), Emilie Ullerup (Chesapeake Shores), and Kimberly Sustad (The Nine Lives of Christmas). *A Special Thank You to Sherry in California and Lori M. for these details!
via Hallmark:
EACH PRECIOUS HEARTBEAT
Premieres: Sunday, December 4th
Starring: Emillie Ullerup (Sanctuary, Chesapeake Shores), Crystal Lowe (Signed, Sealed, Delivered), Kimberly Sustad (The Nine Lives of Christmas)
When Alice, a beloved neonatal intensive care unit supervisor, is forced to take early retirement, her young colleague Jenny decides to turn the upcoming staff Christmas party into a surprise celebration for her. The plan is complicated by Matt, the hospital’s new CFO, who’s been tasked to cut costs. Initially at loggerheads, Jenny and Matt get to know and understand each other —a sweet Christmas gift neither saw coming.
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64.) Christmas on Repeat
Poster and Details via IMDB.com. Storyline: Sometimes love needs a do-over.
This is a Family Comedy!
Cast: Rachel Hendrix, Karissa Lee Staples, Alexandra Harris, Ted Welch, Aaron Munoz, Shawn Hawkins, Rich Redmond, Mary Sarah, Graham Outbridge, & Joe Mullen
"Season's Greetings," (see update below!) "Running Out of Angels," "The Angel Makers," "Snowman: A Horse Tale," "A Christmas Romance," "The Sleeping Shepherd," and "A Doggone Xmas 2!."
If any of these are confirmed to be family Christmas movies, they will be updated and receive a separate listing.
*Thank you Sherry in California for sharing these!
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66.) Season's Greetings:
According to castanet.net: 'Season's Greetings' is an all new original Christmas movie being filmed by eOne productions. The movie will star Laura Bell Bundy (Becoming Santa) and will premiere this Christmas Season on UP!
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67.) Collateral Beauty:
This movie will be in theaters this Christmas, on December 16, 2016. It looks like a very deep (albeit sometimes depressing and dark) story starring Will Smith, along with an all star cast: Kate Winslet, Keira Knightley, Helen Mirren, Edward Norton, Michael Peña and Naomie Harris.
According to mymerrychristmas.com: "The film follows Howard (Will Smith), a man who loses his love and drive for life following the death of his daughter. Additionally, it seems to focus on three things that are universal to all humans: Love, time, and death. As Howard divulges... “We long for love, we wish we had more time, and we fear death."
Please Note: Rating is Currently Unknown.
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68.) A Cinderella Christmas:
via ION Press Release:
Cast: Emma Rigby, Peter Porte, Sarah Stouffer, Leland B. Martin, Lesley-Anne Down, Mindy Cohn, Lucy DeVito
Synopsis: At a holiday masquerade ball, fledgling event planner Angie Wells and wealthy playboy Nicholas Karmichael, who needs to marry to retain his inheritance, meet and fall for each other anonymously. While Nicholas tries to locate the girl of his dreams, Angie must choose between pursuing her lifelong dream of running a business or following her heart.
Produced by: MarVista Entertainment
"A Cinderella Christmas" will premiere Sunday, Dec. 4, at 9/8c PM. on ION.
Cast: Vivica A. Fox, Ricco Ross, Dominique Swain, Michael Bergin, Helene Udy, Eric Roberts, Jackée Harry
Synopsis: Brooke and Roger, two graphic designers in a soon-to-be-merged company, help one another by agreeing to a loveless marriage of convenience, suggested by their new boss. In the process, Brooke gets to upstage the sister who just announced her engagement to Brooke's ex-boyfriend during the holidays. But, with their "marriage" in question, will Brooke and Roger find a spark they didn't know existed?
Produced by: Hybrid Films
"A Husband for Christmas" will premiere Sunday, Dec. 11, at 9/8c PM.
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70.) Christmas in Homestead (Previously known as: SHOOTING CHRISTMAS):
via Hallmark Press Release:
Premieres Wednesday, November 23rd
Starring: Taylor Cole (The Originals), Michael Rady (Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants), Michael Nardelli (Revenge)
One of the most famous actresses in world heads to the Christmas-obsessed town of Homestead, Iowa, to shoot a holiday-themed. She is thrown for a loop when a romance brews between her and local inn keeper and single dad, Matt. As she gets a taste of small-town life and people who give of themselves without asking anything in return, she discovers the true meaning of Christmas.
UPDATE: According to the Hallmark Channel, this movie has a new title: 'Christmas in Homestead.'
*Thank you Sherry in California for sharing this new title!
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71.) Looks Like Christmas (Previously known as: A CHRISTMAS CAROL):
via Hallmark Press Release:
Premieres Sunday, December 4th on the Hallmark Channel
Carol is an over-involved mother but nothing compares to the holiday season when she goes over-the-top spearheading her kid’s school’s Christmas Spectacular each year, which earned her the nickname Christmas Carol by the parents and faculty. All that changes the day Terry moves to town with his teenage daughter. Also single, he is very fond of the holiday himself, having volunteered to mount the Christmas play each year at his daughter’s former school. Carol tries to politely tell the single dad his help won’t be needed but he has no intention of stepping aside. The tug-of-war turns into something of a rumble and it becomes clear neither of these parents is willing to work with the other. With the competition lines clearly drawn in the sand, the dueling duo sets out to outdo each other to create the most memorable Christmas spectacular ever. The pressure is ON to make this the best Christmas ever as it’s anybody’s guess if “Christmas Carol” will live up to her moniker or if newly titled “Terry Christmas” will become the new holiday hero. The two will ultimately learn the error of their ways and put aside their differences while learning they have a lot more in common as an unexpected romance begins to bloom.
Cast: Dylan Neal
(thanks for this info Shirley!)
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72.) Love You Like Christmas (Previously: MEANT TO BE)
via Hallmark Press Release:
Premieres Sunday, December 11th on the Hallmark Channel
Starring: Brennan Elliott (Strong Medicine), Bonnie Somerville (Holiday Engagement)
Maddie, a high-powered marketing executive, is on her way to a client’s wedding but her plans are derailed by car trouble. When a fork in the road leads her to Christmas Valley, a town in love with Christmas, an unexpected encounter and a group of strangers that start to feel like family will have her questioning what she’s really been missing in life.
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73.) A Dream Of Christmas (Previously: It's a Wonderful Wife)
This movie is set to film in Canada, on October 3, 2016. (according to http://myentertainmentworld.com) Stay tuned for more news on this potential Christmas movie!
*Thank you Sherry in California for sharing this new title!
UPDATE: October 7, 2016 The movie 'It's a Wonderful Wife' is currently filming festive Christmassy holiday scenes with actresses Lisa Durupt and Nikki Deloach, who will play sisters in this new movie - for Hallmark!
Both actresses starred in Hallmark Christmas movies last year! Lisa Durupt starred in 'Murder She Baked: A Plum Pudding Mystery' and Nikki Deloach starred in 'Christmas Land'.
*Thank you to Shirley S. for discovering & sharing this Christmas movie info!
Update: It's confirmed! The leading man in the movie 'It's a Wonderful Wife' is actor Andrew Walker of 'Dashing Through the Snow'.
*This news was first discovered by Ioana Anger. Special Thank you to Sherry in California for passing on lots of information on this movie to me throughout the production process!
via Hallmark Press Release:
Premieres: Sunday, December 18th on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries
A harsh TV personality, Jennifer, needs a break from her own life, so she hops into a car and drives to a small town mountain retreat. On her way there a blizzard veers off the road and she crashes. When she comes to she has complete amnesia and a friendly passerby takes her in. As time passes she still doesn’t remember who she is and the friendly passerby, a widower himself with 3 kids, assimilates her into his family. But as she slowly starts remembering who she is, she prefers the new life she’s built in the small town.
Cast: Cameron Mathison, Mira Sorvino
(Thank you for e-mailing this cast info, Shirley S.! - proof via Cameron's Instagram post! Credit also goes to Ioana Anger - for discovering Mira is in this movie on the Hallmark Facebook Fan Page!)
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75.) The Christmas Cottage:
According to IMDB, this will be a made-for-TV movie in 2017!
(Thank you to the Anonymous commenter below who shared this movie title!)
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76.) The Best Christmas Pageant Ever:
So far, all I have on this one is the title, but I think it is safe to say it is a Christmas production! (information via production weekly)
'The Best Christmas Pageant Ever' is a real and beautiful story that tells the true meaning of Christmas! I truly hope this new production - is a re-telling of this same sweet story.
*Thank you for sharing this Christmas news, Sleepy Kitty Paws!
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79.) For The Love Of Christmas:
Storyline via imdb: For The Love of Christmas follows Bryson, a devoted husband with a strong desire to have children, and Sunday, a once loving wife, who at some point has lost touch with peace, love and the gift of giving. But when a homeless family appears on their doorstep, bearing nothing but the true meaning of love, Sunday's heart is reacquainted with the vows that once held their marriage together. (- Written by Pernitha Tinsley)
Thank you Anonymous for sharing this trailer in the comments below.
I discovered the Release Date in Theaters will be: December 25, 2016
According to the Production Company Facebook Page - it will also be available, at some point, on DVD.
Unknown Rating. Stay tuned!
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So, that's all the scoop I have now for Christmas 2016! Will we be likely to see Candace Cameron Bure (Yes!), Rachel Boston (Yes!), Paul Campbell, Lacey Chabert (Yes!), Sarah Lancaster, Lori Loughlin (Yes!), Kellie Martin, Cameron Mathison, Danica McKellar (Yes!), Paul Greene (Yes!), Alicia Witt (Yes!), & others return for a new Christmas movie this year? I would say the odds are good we will see many of them, again!!!
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If you happen to hear any Christmas Movie News, please leave a comment below or you can contact me by e-mail at itsawonderfulchristmas@yahoo.com - Thank You!
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May the true gift of Christmas remain in your heart all year!!!
Hello Blog Friends & Followers! My Nickname is Net and more than Anything, I love my Savior, Jesus, and my precious Family! It's my joy to share and review Movies here on this Blog ~ that the entire Family can watch together on TV! Thank YOU so much for stopping by, Please leave a Comment... I enjoy hearing from You! ~ Net
, starting with the book 
