‘Tis the holiday season once more, and lo and behold, Hallmark, the bard of Christmas tales, hath unfurled its grand tapestry of yuletide-themed romantic comedies to bid adieu to the year. As the selection of Hallmark Christmas movies doth swell in number, the realm of merry viewing may seem a tad overwhelming. Fear not, for here we unveil the finest gems among the Hallmark Christmas movies.
Best Hallmark Christmas Movies to Watch This Holiday Season
"Christmas at the Plaza"
The grand Plaza Hotel in Manhattan, oft remembered from "Home Alone 2," is not merely a backdrop but the star of the 2019 Hallmark Christmas movie "Christmas at the Plaza." Elizabeth Henstridge takes center stage as an archival historian tasked with chronicling the festive history of the Plaza Hotel. ‘Tis here she encounters a dashing decorator, played by Ryan Paevey, commissioned to bedeck the hotel for Christmastide.
Standout amidst the snow-coated scenery is the effortless rapport betwixt Henstridge and Paevey, a duo whose charm doth illuminate each shared scene.
"Marry Me at Christmas"
A double dose of romance awaits in the 2017 film "Marry Me at Christmas," as wedding planner Maddy (Rachel Skarsten) finds her heart entwined with the brother of the bride, Johnny (Trevor Donovan). Yet Johnny, not solely the sibling of the affianced, hath carved a name for himself in the realms of Hollywood as a thespian yearning for a love unscripted by Tinseltown’s glitz. Amidst the wonders of a quaint town nestled in preparations for a blessed union, a love story unfolds, perfectly tailored for Christmas.
"Christmas at Pemberley Manor"
For those who seek a rustic hue in the palette of Hallmark Christmas films, the 2018 offering "Christmas at Pemberley Manor" delivers just that and more. Event planner Elizabeth Bennett (Jessica Lowndes) seeks a venue for a forthcoming task, only to find her heart entwined with the proprietor of a picturesque country estate, William Darcy (Michael Rady), who harbors no intent of parting with his abode.
With nods to "Pride & Prejudice," "Christmas at Pemberley Manor" dons a cloak of sophistication in its presentation.
"The Christmas Cottage"
In the winter’s embrace, another tale of love amidst the twinkling lights unfolds in the 2017 film "The Christmas Cottage." Designer Lacey (Merritt Patterson) adorns her friend’s cabin for the nuptials ahead, aided by the bride’s brother Ean (Steve Lund). ‘Neath a blanket of snow, as a blizzard weaves its magic, Lacey finds herself drawn to Ean, and in his embrace discovers a love as pure as the Christmas morn.
"A Royal Christmas"
A regal fable akin to Cinderella’s dance, the 2014 film "A Royal Christmas" unveils a tapestry where an American seamstress named Emily (Lacey Chabert) learns her lover Leo (Stephen Hagan) bears a crown upon his head. Amidst the holiday revelry, as Emily enters Leo’s abode, she encounters the gaze of Queen Isadora (Jane Seymour), harbinger of disapproving glances. With a cast resplendent and a tale timeless, "A Royal Christmas" bestows upon the standard Hallmark Christmas recipe a sprinkle of royal allure.
"Lights, Camera, Christmas!"
A modern tale of Cinderella adorns the screen in the 2022 film "Lights, Camera, Christmas!" amidst the creation of a festive romantic comedy in a humble hamlet. Kerry (Kimberley Sustad), the custodian of costumes, finds her heart captivated by the leading man, Brad (John Brotherton). A whimsical twist upon the customary Hallmark holiday comedy, "Lights, Camera, Christmas!" ushers in a breath of fresh air to the well-trodden path, guided by the charm of its protagonists.
"Where Are You, Christmas?"
In the wintry embrace of 2023’s "Where Are You, Christmas?" we find Addy Dean (Lyndsy Fonseca), a denizen of the corporate world, wearied by the season’s demands. A sojourn to her hometown, to aid her brother in betrothal, unveils to Addy the true spirit of Christmas, whilst kindling a flame with the town’s mechanic, Hunter. Fonseca breathes life into the heroine, and the narrative unfolds with grace, making "Where Are You, Christmas?" a jewel in the crown of understated tales.
"A Wish for Christmas"
Behold the gift of Lacey Chabert in the 2016 film "A Wish for Christmas," where she dons the mantle of Sara Thomas. A wish to St. Nick, after a misappropriated yuletide endeavor, empowers Sara to confront her adversary, leading her to Seattle where she finds love amidst the disillusioned heart of another. Chabert, in her element, elevates the tale beyond the ordinary, rendering "A Wish for Christmas" a beacon in the sea of holiday romances.
"Three Wise Men and a Baby"
In the tapestry of laughter and love that is 2022’s "Three Wise Men and a Baby," three estranged brothers find themselves caretakers of an infant o’er the holiday season. As they navigate the challenges, reconciliation blooms, and love finds its way, enriching each soul with a newfound appreciation for the season. Bolstered by these three titans, "Three Wise Men and a Baby" casts familial bonds in a radiant light.
"An Unexpected Christmas"
A love once lost finds resurgence in 2021’s "An Unexpected Christmas," where the sundered hearts of Emily (Bethany Joy Lenz) and Jamie (Tyler Hynes) discover a second chance amidst the holiday cheer. United by circumstance in Jamie’s hometown, the erstwhile lovers decide to keep up appearances for the festive season, leading them down a path where love rekindles. Amongst the tales of the season, "An Unexpected Christmas" shines bright, as Lenz and Hynes weave a tapestry of longing and renewal.
Within these tales of love, laughter, and the magic of Christmas, Hallmark weaves a spellbinding tapestry that warms the hearts and kindles the spirit during this festive season. Let these cinematic gems be a balm for the soul as we journey through the winter nights, guided by the flickering glow of holiday magic.