Almost without a doubt, if I were to survey the typical person concerning the type of programming the Hallmark Channel is most known for, I would overwhelmingly hear, “Christmas movies.” For ten years now, Hallmark has been the gold standard in holiday entertainment. While countless other networks compete and sometimes even approach the level (or even surpass it at times), the ratings don’t lie. People love Hallmark Christmas movies.

From the end of October 2019 until early January 2020, our TV was invariably set to one of the three Hallmark channels (or Hallmark Movies Now), and 2019 was the year in which Hallmark premiered a total of forty new Christmas movies. (Even though one movie was removed from the Christmas schedule, Hallmark had already premiered a new Christmas movie for their “Christmas In July” event earlier in the year, so they still had forty new movies.)

Most bloggers/journalists/podcasters (myself included) attempt to rank their favorite movies from the Hallmark Christmas season, but all too often, this subjective feature becomes fraught with heated arguments and feelings of contempt if that person’s favorite wasn’t mentioned. I actually fancy something I read in an interview with Ryan Paevey recently where he mentioned that he doesn’t like to talk about favorites. I must say I concur. While I will probably still rank the movies I favor from time to time, my mom engineered a fabulous idea to hopefully make my post unique.

At the beginning of January, I sent out a form for my readers to complete which permitted them to indicate their top five favorite movies from Hallmark’s Christmas movies in 2019. As my mom stated, if you’re not a writer and never have to undertake the exercise of picking your favorites, it is quite easy to criticize others for not choosing and featuring your favorite movie. Therefore, in so doing, this gave my readers a chance to participate in the process. The form only garnered about seventy responses (including my mom’s and mine), but it also did not authorize people to respond more than once (unless they chose to use more than one email address).

Recently, I tabulated the scores, and I am going to share at the end of this post what movies my readers picked for their top five movies of Christmas 2019. Before we get there, however, I am going to give a mini-review of each of these movies without detailing which movies were my personal favorites. I am also going to incorporate some of the responses my readers gave me concerning the movies.

The first official new Christmas movie of 2019 actually premiered during the network’s “Christmas In July” event, and this movie is entitled Christmas Camp  I was privileged to interview both the writer and two of the stars of this film–Geraldine Leer and John James. Personally, I think this movie is rather underrated by the standard Hallmark Christmas movie watcher. The story was unconventional, and I thought the combination of Lily Anne Harrison and Bobby Campo was classic! And just watching Geraldine and John…what can I say? It was like a class in dramatic arts from those two. Maybe this was a light movie, but that’s just it. It wasn’t supposed to be a profoundly impassioned movie. What a way to kick off a brilliant season!

Now onto the rest of the movies, beginning with Countdown to Christmas on the Hallmark Channel.

First up was Christmas Wishes & Mistletoe Kisses. This one featured fan-favorite Jill Wagner, network newcomer Matthew Davis, and veteran actress Donna Mills. This one was sweet, funny, charming, and the ideal way to kick off the holiday season. As one of my readers wrote, “I tend to prefer the Hallmark movies that are less serious and more lighthearted, focusing on romance and charming towns. I like witty banter, and I appreciate good chemistry between the leads. I like to laugh, so the funnier movies are always more my speed.” I think this encapsulates the essence of this movie (amongst many others), and Hallmark was smart to choose this as their official movie to kick off their holiday programming.

Yet another popular movie within the Hallmark fan community, not to mention amongst my readers, was Merry & Bright. With the delightful pairing of Jodie Sweetin and Andrew Walker, how could you possibly go wrong? This movie had all the energy and comedy one would expect from this dynamic combination, and I will always adore the ending! I mean, Andrew’s sweet proposal?? Swoonworthy!!

Next up…let me say one name. Kevin McGarry! I would seriously watch him in anything, and Christmas Scavenger  Hunt was no exception to this rule. He has become the Hallmark star who can do no wrong…practically. His leading lady was new to Hallmark–Kim Shaw–and this story was considerably different from the usual Christmas movie. While it would have been fun to have had more of the scavenger hunt intertwined within the story, at the end of the day, this was a fun Christmas story with a vigorously romantic lead!

Picture A Perfect Christmas featured the stylings of Merrit Patterson and Jon Cor. This is the movie that, in my opinion, established Jon as a favorite leading man within the Hallmark community. I also interviewed the hilarious Chelsea Gill, who played the somewhat distracted nanny applicant. This movie definitely resonated with many of my readers, and I agree it was a delectable escape with two perfectly matched leads (as well as some supporting cast that knocked it out of the park).

Where else could you see a good bromance on Hallmark? Well, The Mistletoe Secret delivered just that with Tyler Hynes and Christopher Russell. Of course, Kellie Pickler and Patrick Duffy returned to the network to make this an entertaining romp through miscommunication, misunderstandings, typical pitfalls, and more! I also interviewed the writers of this movie before I watched it, and this was easily one of my favorites of theirs! I wouldn’t mind seeing more movies like this one!

Write Before Christmas…one of the most unique movies that Hallmark premiered this past season. It starred heartthrobs Chad Michael Murray and Drew Seeley, and Torrey DeVitto was our lovely leading lady. What made this one so palatably distinctive is that it followed more than just one love story. I think one of my readers encapsulated everything I would like to say about this movie and more. “I loved the unique movies this year. I enjoy the movies that pull at the heartstrings and are not overwhelming with just gooey love. Gooey is good but sometimes I love a thick beautiful family storyline. And there’s nothing wrong with a kind hug and a loving glance. Love my Hallmark!” In addition to this, my friend Madison Smith had a wonderful love story with Lanie McAuley. And Hallmark was introduced to Kimberley Shoniker, an actress whom I hope we will see in many future productions with the network! (Yes, Geoff Gustafson was in this one as well!)

Now, while Christmas At Graceland: Home For the Holidays was not my all-time favorite Hallmark Graceland movie, I simply relish Adrian Grenier. And it just so happened I connected with a wonderful new Hallmark actor, Damian Cecere. The music was fabulous, the kids were incredibly talented, and seeing Priscilla Presley…I mean, could we really ask for anything more?

In the interest of being incredibly transparent, I enjoyed the first A Gift To Remember, but it wasn’t a top film for me that year. For many of the fans, it was a massive hit. When I interviewed the screenwriter, Topher Payne, about the sequel, Cherished Memories: A Gift To Remember 2, I began to think that possibly this could be a kinetically inspirited sequel. Peter Porte and Ali Liebert returned to reprise their roles along with Tina Lifford. And let me just say that this movie knocked it out of the park, in my opinion. It is one of the most perfect Hallmark sequels I have ever watched, and going forward, I believe it could set the benchmark in sequels with the network.

Chaley Rose and Rome Flynn were new to me, and I wasn’t sure what I would think of A Christmas Duet. Whenever there are two new leads, it is unfailingly fascinating to me to watch them throughout the course of the film as they begin to settle more into their roles, and that is what I believed happened with this movie. As a bonus, we got to see Teryl Rothery, one of the most beautiful veteran Vancouver actresses in existence!

I was thoroughly convinced Check Inn To Christmas was going to be one of the top five films, but it just missed that by a few votes. Rachel Boston and Wes Brown (in addition to Richard Karn and Charla Bocchicchio)…I don’t think we could have planned it any better. It was fun, delightful, and just the kind of movie to set our Christmas juices flowing. 

I fell in love with The Christmas Club the moment I heard Cameron Mathison was making a Christmas movie. Sure, adding Elizabeth Mitchell to the bunch (and seeing Gabrielle Rose once I watched it) was a luscious feast. But this movie was unquestionably a favorite for me. I could have watched Cameron and Elizabeth all day. Who am I kidding? I could watch Cameron all day…period!

I know some have complained about their disappointment with Christmas At the Plaza. I am not one of them. I have never seen a Ryan Paevey movie I didn’t like. While Elizabeth Henstridge was new to me and may have seemed a bit stiff at times, I believe that was part of her character more than it was her abilities. My mom and I actually discussed why we loved this movie. The gorgeous shots of the Plaza Hotel in New York. Seeing Bruce Davison on Hallmark. Oh, and let’s not forget the absolutely perfect comedic timing of one of the final scenes with Nelson Wong! I never grew tired of that scene. Every time I watched it, I fell more in love with it! Nelson is a Hallmark treasure, and we are all grateful to Ron Oliver for bringing him to us as many times as he has! (I still have hopes he may have a lead role one day.)

How about the third installment of Christmas In Evergreen? This one is subtitled Tidings Of Joy. Somehow, they were able to bring back all the people we love–Ashley Williams, Holly Robinson Peete, Jill Wagner, Mark Deklin, Teddy Sears, Rukiya Bernard, Barbara Niven, Colin Lawrence…and they sweetened the pot by adding Maggie Lawson and Paul Greene! This has a dream cast (even if some of those listed were only cameos), and this was, in my humble opinion, the best of the three films. While I know that ranking had something to do with Paul being in it, everyone else was astounding too. I look forward to many more in this series of films. Many of my readers put this one on their top five or close to it.

And yet another prominent fan favorite! I’m sure that Christmas In Rome benefited from at least three things. Lacey Chabert, Sam Page, and a beautiful location! If there were any holes in the story or any difficulties with the perception of on-screen chemistry (not that I’m saying there were any concerns), the fact that we were on a virtual holiday trip to Rome more than compensated!

Dolly Parton is a country music icon and legend, and the fact that a couple of my friends appeared with Niall Matter, Danica McKellar, along with Dolly made Christmas At Dollywood a sensational treat! Nina Weinman Swift, screenwriter extraordinaire, first tipped me off to this glorious film, and when I found out that Jason Cermak and Pauline Egan were in it as well (along with Crystal Lowe), I was dazzlingly excited! While the main purpose of the movie was to feature an event in Dollywood and only a few of the shots were filmed in this world-famous park, the story and acting paired splendidly together to tell a sweet story that was only made better by a few poignantly true words from the legend herself! (Ethan Couch and Chris Shields were amongst the glittering crowd as well.)

We welcomed Brittany Bristow to her rightful role of leading lady in Holiday Date, and having Matt Cohen join her was a veritable gift! I am not certain how many found themselves laughing at the antics showcased within this movie. Everyone from Teryl Rothery to Bruce Boxleitner to Peter Benson to Anna Van Hooft to the charming and talented Ava Grace Cooper! This was one of the two Christmas/Hanukkah offerings this past season, and I felt as though this one was light-hearted and was geared towards the younger set (which is not a bad thing). As far as I’m concerned, Brittany rose to the occasion and then surpassed all expectations with flying colors! Oh, and her director, Jeff Beesley, not only directed this one, but he was the director of The Christmas Club as well. I don’t think I ever grow weary of the fake boyfriend element! Well done, Kraig Wenman, I applaud your idea for this scrumptiously fun film!

Now, onto a film that many people claimed to be their least favorite of the season. A Cheerful Christmas was not the absolute best film I had ever seen, but it wasn’t the worst either. In fact, Chad Connell was amazing in this first leading role for Hallmark, and Erica Deutschman was a pleasant new option for leading lady. Together, they made an entertaining movie that had its moments of comedy and romance with an abundance of Christmas tradition thrown in. What more could you ask for?

Onto the movie I could not get out of my head, Double Holiday with Kristoffer Polaha and Carly Pope. Of course, most of you know of my affinity for Kris (even though he stood me up for an interview…okay, but he apologized publicly, so I understand. It happens.), and joining him with Carly made perfect sense. This was the second of the Christmas/Hanukah movies, and I believe I gleaned so much from this movie! It was a bit slower to start, but the appeal was lasting. As one of my readers wrote, “Double Holiday is such a beautiful testament to faith and diversity.” I hope for a sequel to this movie. In fact, of any of the Hallmark Christmas movies this past season, I would put this movie at the top of my list for a sequel. While I wish we could have had more time to develop the romance, the way in which it happened worked, and I’m ready to see these two plan a Christian/Jewish wedding, aren’t you?

It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas was light, seasonal, and starred two veteran actors who consistently bring an abundance of charisma to the screen–Eric Mabius and Tricia Helfer. I think I’m digging these yearly collaborations between Rick Garman and Eric. This premiered close to Christmas, so having a storyline that was lively and celebrated the winsomeness of the season was exactly what was required.

The final Hallmark Channel offering for the season was When Calls the Heart: Home For the Holidays, and this has become a yearly tradition for us Hearties. The previous year, Elizabeth gave birth to baby Jack, and this past season, we celebrated his first birthday. I cannot begin to detail just how phenomenal everyone in the cast was for this movie offering. I will say that there was the excellent addition of Walter, played by Ryan Rosery, and I believe we are all in agreement that we want him back in season eight! This movie had love, kindness, heart, joy, sorrow, gentleness, romance, understanding, redemption, and the warmth of the season infused magnificently throughout the movie. It was a remarkable kick-off to season seven!

Now onto the movies that played over on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, the Miracles Of Christmas.

A Merry Christmas Match was actually the first new Christmas movie of 2019 (with the exception of the Christmas In July premiere), and this movie was totally a blast! I enjoyed seeing Ashley Newbrough in this movie–easily my favorite of hers so far. And Kyle Dean Massey was jocund too. Maybe this movie was more light-hearted, but I believe you need some of those intermixed with the more serious ones. And after interviewing executive producer Autumn Federici, I found I luxuriated in the antics of this movie even more!

Oh my, what a delightful and beautiful movie Nostalgic Christmas was! Those Santas! The stars–Brooke D’Orsay and Trevor Donovan–they knocked it out of the park! I was so glad to see Brooke in this movie looking gorgeous and truly embodying a character that manifested her talent in the absolute best light, and Trevor was the ideal scene partner and an utmost gentleman to her character…a sweet, fun, “nostalgic” movie.

I was amazed that some people made it very clear that they didn’t enjoy A Blue Ridge Mountain Christmas, but I thought this one was charming, funny, and sentimental at times.  The pairing of Rachael Leigh Cook and Benjamin Ayres was exemplary, and the addition of the delightful and gifted Lina Renna…I honestly don’t know how you could ask for much more than that. The story was expected, but the acting was stellar. And for me, this combination of talent created a story in which I was thoroughly invested.

How wonderful it was to see such a diverse cast in A Christmas Miracle, and to make it even better, we savored the delightful on-screen pairing of Tamera Mowry- Housley and Brooks Darnell. Moreover, even Barry Bostwick lent his gifts to this entertaining tale. I rejoiced to see my friend, Tara Wilson, return to Hallmark  in this Christmas movie. One of the reasons I appreciate Hallmark is for movies just like this one. They don’t add diversity merely for the sake of diversity. As a network, Hallmark is committed to telling an engaging story first, and only then do they organically add casts that match that story.

Full disclosure–this one ALMOST made the top five! And rightfully so! Holiday Hearts with Ashley Williams and Paul Campbell?! Yes, please! From the moment I heard these two were matched in this film, I knew it was going to be stellar, hilarious, authentic, and beguiling. This movie also featured an exceptional supporting cast–Lisa Durupt, Matt Hamilton…and the list goes on. I realize that some may question my devotion to Paul because I don’t post about him being my favorite twenty-four-seven. Just let me set the record straight. I adore Paul, and I have been supportive of every Hallmark movie he’s made! And this is yet another monumental one!

I am so grateful that Hallmark is embedding more music in their movies, and 2019 Christmas was no exception! Our Christmas Love Song with Alicia Witt and Brendan Hines was filled to the brim with music, song, acting, a touching story, a new leading man for the network, a scene at the Grand Old Opry…I was quite pleased with this one. Hopefully, Alicia will continue to be highlighted in movies that let us see the comprehensive range of her talent.

I understand there were mixed reviews over Sense, Sensibility & Snowmen. In truth, I don’t really know why. With a cast featuring favorites such as Erin Krakow, Luke Macfarlane, and Kimberley Sustad…maybe people expected a different kind of film than what they received. Erin had the joy of being able to play a different sort of character than we had seen her play on Hallmark in the past. Luke was his “hunky” self with all the charm we adore. And Kimberley…I mean, how refreshing is it to see her on our screens? Every role that woman is given invariably ends up being a favorite! While the title had little to do with the movie, I really could care less. The movie was fun and permeated with Christmas spirit and true sisterhood.

A Homecoming For the Holidays featuring the wonder that is Lauren Osnes… and we can’t forget about Stephen Huszar. I never weary of military-themed Hallmark films, especially at Christmastime. This movie featured music yet again, and while it may not have reached the favored level that another military Christmas film did this past season, I was definitely entertained and inspired. I also adored Jesse Irving‘s character!

I didn’t expect to love Time For You To Come Home For Christmas as much as I did! Last year’s film of a similar name was good and all, but this one, in my opinion, was the more engaging and more intriguing of the two. I mean, Ali Sweeney and Lucas Bryant! Add to that the tremendous story with a bit of mystery. And what about Kiefer O’Reilly all grown up?? As well as the pleasant military touch. I wouldn’t mind a proper sequel to this one next season.

How about Kellie Martin and Colin Ferguson in Christmas In Montana? I know that Colin is traditionally identified as the “Maytag Man,” but hey!! He’s more than validated himself on Hallmark. Add in the gracious and talented Kellie and a new actress to the network who played her daughter, Ava Preston. And if that weren’t enough, it was penned by screenwriter extraordinaire, Julie Sherman Wolfe. Moreover, it is loosely based on Kellie’s and her husband’s real-life romance, so I say this one was a winner.

Finally, the network cast Carlo Marks in a Christmas movie, and they paired him up with Miss Hallmark herself, Jen Lilley! So, Angel Falls: A Novel Holiday was another gratifying movie for the season with these two amazing people. I just wish we had seen Eric Close’s character a little more often because he is just so incredible! While this wasn’t a proper sequel in every sense of the word, it was enjoyable to see some of our favorite in Angel Falls, and maybe we’ll see them come back this next season as another sequel is planned.

Two Andrew Walker Hallmark Christmas movies in one season? Sure! I’m up for that! I actually met Andrew when he was filming this movie. He and Ashley Greene were so marvelous together in Christmas On My Mind. Add to this lovely story the fact that my friend Kirsten Hansen adapted it from a book by one of the best romance authors I know, Denise Hunter, and you have everything needed for a romantic Christmas movie surging with warmth and joy. Oh, and don’t forget about Preston Vanderslice and Donna Benedicto! They added even more delight to what was already a magical movie.

The final offering for 2019 Miracles Of Christmas on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries was an absolute stand-out for me. Holly Robinson Peete, Patti LaBelle, and Dion Johnstone in A Family Christmas Gift. Yes, please! Especially since Patti sang my favorite Christmas carol, “Oh Holy Night!” This movie was somewhat underrated, from what I could tell. I thought it was a lovely story with a diverse cast that presented a fantastic message. Maybe people were “over” Christmas at this point, but I, for one, wasn’t! I was so glad to see my dear friend Nicole Oliver featured in this movie as well, and I couldn’t get over how flawless Holly and Dion were together. Kudos to Hallmark for ending their season with such a strong and sweet showing.

Now, the very astute amongst you probably noticed that I skipped a few movies on the list. Well, of course! Because those titles happen to be the winners!

So, now it’s time to reveal our winners.

5.

In a tie for fifth place are two lovely films. A Godwink Christmas: Meant For Love and Christmas Town. I think this tie makes perfect sense, and I couldn’t be more ecstatic!

With Kathie Lee Gifford, Cindy Busby, and Benjamin Hollingsworth along with SQuire Rushnell and his wife creating/producing it…I mean, how could you go wrong? I treasured last year’s offering, but this one was even more poignant. The fact that the movie is based on a true story and teaches you to look for “Godwinks” is something that no other movie on TV does today. I adore Cindy anyway, and this cast was absolutely superb. Moreover, the fact that this movie dealt with illness…this is something that doesn’t generally appear in Hallmark movies, but I have discovered that they are doing more of these themes on the network. In fact, I hope that Hallmark deals with even more serious issues in the future because if there’s one thing this world needs, it’s a chance to discuss real-life topics in a safe, family-friendly environment.

It’s the annual Candace Cameron-Bure Christmas film, and Christmas Town knocked it out of the park yet again. While it may not have had the humor and fun of last year’s offering A Shoe Addict’s Christmas, the story was powerful. Dealing with foster kids, death, and even whether the couple wanted children or not (Jason Cermak had one powerful role that totally shocked me because when does anyone on Hallmark claim to not want kids?!) It seems like this movie resonated with so many of the fans, and I, for one, was glad to see Tim Rozon on Hallmark, weren’t you?

4.

Coming in at a strong number four is a movie that actually caused me to take action–Two Turtle Doves. Starring Michael Rady and Nikki DeLoach in this stirring tale that again embraced the issues of death and illness, this movie was one of my all-time favorite Christmas movies as well. Rarely have I witnessed such absolute perfection on-screen from both leads as well as the young lady who starred alongside them, Michaela Russell. This was the first Christmas movie of the year to make me cry, and as a result of watching this movie, I knew I had no choice but to book that summer trip to Disney World so that my daughter and I could make special memories. Why put it off till tomorrow or next year? None of us are guaranteed anything in this life, and the time to make memories is now before it is too late. I’m exhilarated that so many fans found that this story resonated with them as well.

3.

At number three is that special Marc Blucas film entitled Holiday For Heroes. To be honest, I believe that any time Marc appears in a Hallmark film, that one is guaranteed to be a significant hit, especially with the ladies. Add in the military theme, a powerful story, and a top soap opera actress–Melissa Claire Egan–and I’d say you have a Hallmark masterpiece. This is also the movie that introduced us to the wonder that is Patti Murin (who tweeted about her desire to be in a Hallmark movie, and someone evidently listened!). I loved this film, and while I wouldn’t have placed it in my top five more than likely, there is no denying the fact that it earned its place of prestige sincerely. Of the military films this past season, I can safely state this was probably the best (unless you count Time For You To Come Home For Christmas).

2.

Can we talk about A Christmas Love Story for a few hours (or days), please? This one earned a spot as number two on the fan-favorite list. Let me just declare that the moment I heard Kristin Chenoweth was in this movie, I chose it as my top favorite for the season, site unseen. I am a massive Kristin Chenoweth fan, and having her bring her skills to my favorite network…and it’s a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie to boot! I didn’t know who Scott Wolf was (I didn’t care, to be honest!), but he was pretty doggone good himself. I was introduced to the wonder that is Maria Howell, and Eric Close directed it (and was featured in a role as well). Moreover, the story!!!!! Oh, my goodness, I was enraptured! A music teacher, a glorious song sung by Kristin, a hilarious ride-share, and a mysterious adoption. Absolutely!! I am elated so many agreed that this was a top movie.

1.

I’ll bet you can guess the top movie, right? Christmas Under the Stars starring Jesse Metcalfe and Autumn Reeser. Also featuring veteran actor Clarke Peters. This movie’s top billing should come at no surprise to anyone. Their original Hallmark pairing in A Country Wedding still draws the masses to this day. Plus, this movie not only demonstrated impressive acting from all involved, but the story was decidedly different and inspirational. Imagine featuring a single woman who chose to become a foster mother. Add to that a top executive who loses his job and has to go work at a lowly Christmas tree lot to get by. While I am sometimes a bit apathetic when it comes to Jesse due to his character in Chesapeake Shores who often irks me, this movie was a chance for him to shine as he never had before. Moreover, there is never a time I haven’t liked Autumn, and she seems perfectly cast opposite Jesse. And as a fan stated, “It called forth my tears of joy toward the end.” I would venture to say there wasn’t a dry eye in the households that watched this movie.

Well, Hallmarkies and Christmas lovers, I would say that about does it. Please feel free to comment on this post or on social media about your favorites this past season. We can always choose to disagree, of course, but notice that I simply shared positive views on each of the movies and downplayed the negatives. Furthermore, remember these top five movies ARE NOT my rankings! I refuse to share mine, but I will affirm that I mostly agree with the top five.

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