An important part of the holiday season is the timeless films that people of all ages love and remember. Nothing beats fond memories of being a little kid snuggled up in a blanket, drinking a mug of hot cocoa and eating gingerbread cookies as a classic holiday movie plays on the TV screen. When thinking of the memorable and magical films that have shaped the Christmas season, Hallmark movies often do not come to mind, but they actually have had just as important of an impact on American holiday culture.
Hallmark movies spark joy during the holiday season, relieve stress and show honest family dynamics. These movies are infamous for being incredibly cheesy, with some substandard acting and unrealistic plotlines, and although some people may scoff and shake their heads at the thought of adding them to their holiday watchlist, it is definitely something to consider.
This year in particular has been very stressful for people all over the world; now is the time more than ever to truly bask in holiday spirit and appreciate what this season has to offer. Since we will be in the safety of our own homes this year, there’s nothing more cheerful than turning on a new Hallmark holiday movie with a hot drink in hand and family by your side. There’s something quite comforting about watching characters being swept off their feet, reunited with a loved one or discovering something new about themselves. Movies like these always have life lessons and lovable characters that revolve around a holiday theme, creating a perfect combination of festive cheer and fun plotlines. Even if you’re not one for rushed romances, the low budget and overall cheesiness of these films can be an easy way to have a collective laugh with family and friends.
2020 has been a challenging year for everyone, and it’s perfectly normal to be feeling discouraged. During busy days staring at a computer screen, it’s often challenging to find time to relax and care for oneself. Hallmark movies are about as lighthearted as it gets, and can provide much needed rest as a reward for a day of hard work. Although some people poke fun at the predictability of these movies, there’s something calming about having the knowledge ahead of time that the characters will all get their happy endings. There’s a reason that about 40 new holiday Hallmark movies have come out in 2020, such as Chateau Christmas and One Royal Holiday; people crave the feel–good moments these movies bring in even the most stressful of times.
Despite how cheesy Hallmark holiday movies are, they actually tend to subtly address serious issues. A common theme seen in these movies is a female main character with a toxic family that constantly makes her feel guilty for not being in a relationship or having what the family considers a successful career. By the end of the movie, the main character ends up with the love of her life and usually has a heart–to–heart conversation with her parents in which they tell her how proud they are. It makes for the perfect happy–ending that is expected in every Christmas rom–com. And while many people might not recognize the toxicity of these family dynamics, especially young adults or children, there are also many people out there who can relate, hopefully learn a valuable lesson and maybe even get that same happy–ending one day.Apart from the cringe–worthiness of Hallmark movies, they relieve stress with some holiday cheer and address serious issues. So the next time you’re looking for some Christmas cheer after a long day of online classes, turn on the newest Hallmark holiday movie, sit back, relax and enjoy.
