Top 40 Memorable Christmas Movies through 2021.
MY FAVORITES FOR THE MOST ENJOYABLE, MEMORABLE, AND LIKABLE CHRISTMAS MOVIES
Note:
THIS LIST HAS BEEN EXTENDED IN A REPLACEMENT IMDB LIST:
"Top 50 Memorable Christmas Movies through 2022"
==== https://www.imdb.com/list/ls084583537/
____________________________________________________
My Top 40 personal favorites through 2021. (Note: My ratings vary from 8 to 10. This list is in no particular order.)
The primary criterion for being added to this list is for a movie to be so rewarding or satisfying that, for older movies, I still remember them with warm memories after several years, and want to see them again, or for newer movies, that I believe this will prove to be the case in the future. Typically, each of these movies will have something distinctive that sets it apart and leads you to reflect on it afterwards.
The notes are taken either from an IMDB review of my own or from one by another IMDB User Reviewer who I thought had nicely captured the essence of the movie.
I consider some of these to be "Hidden Gems" -- movies with an IMDB rating below 7 that, in my opinion, are on par with movies rated well above 7. I hope you will enjoy them as much as I have.
Many of these made-for-TV ROM-COMS.
(ROM-COM definition: see Romantic comedy - Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romantic_comedy)
In order to better distinguish them from each other, I rate TV ROM-COM entries relative to *other* made-for-TV ROM-COMs, and on a more generous scale, so these ratings tend to run a point or two higher than for a theater-released Christmas movie of comparable quality and likability.
Note:
THIS LIST HAS BEEN EXTENDED IN A REPLACEMENT IMDB LIST:
"Top 50 Memorable Christmas Movies through 2022"
==== https://www.imdb.com/list/ls084583537/
____________________________________________________
My Top 40 personal favorites through 2021. (Note: My ratings vary from 8 to 10. This list is in no particular order.)
The primary criterion for being added to this list is for a movie to be so rewarding or satisfying that, for older movies, I still remember them with warm memories after several years, and want to see them again, or for newer movies, that I believe this will prove to be the case in the future. Typically, each of these movies will have something distinctive that sets it apart and leads you to reflect on it afterwards.
The notes are taken either from an IMDB review of my own or from one by another IMDB User Reviewer who I thought had nicely captured the essence of the movie.
I consider some of these to be "Hidden Gems" -- movies with an IMDB rating below 7 that, in my opinion, are on par with movies rated well above 7. I hope you will enjoy them as much as I have.
Many of these made-for-TV ROM-COMS.
(ROM-COM definition: see Romantic comedy - Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romantic_comedy)
In order to better distinguish them from each other, I rate TV ROM-COM entries relative to *other* made-for-TV ROM-COMs, and on a more generous scale, so these ratings tend to run a point or two higher than for a theater-released Christmas movie of comparable quality and likability.
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- 40 titles
- DirectorGary YatesStarsMallory JansenTyler HynesCherissa RichardsTwo game creators, both vying for a promotion, must team up to create a Christmas scavenger hunt.TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "readyreference" wrote:
Fun and festive!
Cute story with lots of imagination, loved the imaginative ways they interpreted the 12 Days of Christmas. The two main characters/actors are very likable, and the romance believable. Much better than some of the other holiday movies I've seen.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6228883/?ref_=tt_urv - DirectorJessica HarmonStarsJill WagnerLucas BryantCassidy NugentA writer seeks the identity of the person who helps grant wishes that are placed upon an angel tree, and in the process, reconnects with her childhood friend.TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "dellataxes-38677" wrote:
Best Movie This Year
... This movie is about miracles, but also caring more for others than ourselves. ... The chemistry between Jill and Lucas made the story more enjoyable. Both of them seem to have the same quirky sense of humor as well.
... I have watched this movie 5 times, and each time it brings smiles and laughter. Love this movie!
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6325209/?ref_=tt_urv - DirectorGary YatesStarsKimberley SustadPaul CampbellDarren MartensWhen her family's beloved café is slated for demolition, Annie vows to put a stop to it before Christmas.TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "jagfannn" wrote:
Great Movie! These two are perfect together
Kimberley Sustad and Paul Campbell are great together, their chemistry is amazing. It's an interesting story, actually written by Paul Campbell, which is very funny, and not one snowball fight or tree lighting countdown. ... There is touching backstory we learn as the story unfolds and the entire cast does a great job. This is one is a well worth watching
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6313336/?ref_=tt_urv - DirectorChristie Will WolfStarsBethany Joy LenzVictor WebsterRobert WisdenWhen a travel writer shows up unexpectedly at their dad's Bed and Breakfast, the Ralston family all pretend to be guests in hopes of a good review. Lucy (Bethany Joy Lenz) falls for guest Jake (Victor Webster), but can't share her secret.TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "jakeh" wrote:
A pleasant surprise, hilarious, great ensemble
I was pleasantly surprised with "Five Star Christmas." As opposed to the usual pap of most of the stories so far this year, this quirky (I know that word has come up before) and romantic comedy was refreshing. The storyline was well written and thought out, coming together nicely with the usual romantic ending on several levels. The energy that Lenz gives off was contagious as was the interplay between the characters. This is my favorite for the 2020 season ... Not since the fantastic "The Most Wonderful Time of the Year (2008)," which featured Henry Winkler, have I enjoyed a Hallmark Christmas feature so much. Put this one on your 'Watch list,' you won't regret it.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6320439/?ref_=tt_urv - DirectorTerry IngramStarsAlison SweeneyLucas BryantKiefer O'ReillyA recent widow travels with her son to her Virginia hometown for Christmas. On the way they meet a man who is heading to the same destination. As they continue to spend time together, the pair grows closer.TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "parksidedrive" wrote:
Christmas Journey to Joy
Hallmark delivers the best movie of the season. Alison Sweeney (Katherine) and Lucas Bryant (Jack) are superb in their roles. The movie is about the loss of a special love and finding a conclusion to a time of pain. Each character finds resolution and growth. Love is the answer.
A stand out cast, terrific story, with great directing & music. Just the best from Hallmark.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw5348985/?ref_=tt_urv - DirectorPaul ZillerStarsAlison SweeneyMarc BlucasNicole OliverTwo squabbling TV hosts are sent to a festive small town over Christmas. While pretending to get along for the sake of appearances, they discover there's more to each other than they thought.TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "capital-33203" wrote:
Ali and Marc team up again! Love it!
For friends out there that enjoy your Hallmark movies, this one doesn't disappoint. Ali Sweeney and Marc Blucas have been in another movie together and were amazing. Its exciting to see another one with them. The storyline is interesting and the rivalry Of the two main characters is well done. ... This is a feel good movie that helps get us all into the Christmas spirit. Thank you Hallmark!!
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6328996/?ref_=tt_urv - DirectorHarvey FrostStarsSteve GuttenbergCrystal BernardDominic Scott KaySanta's son and successor is looking for a suitable Mrs. Claus before he can take over the family business.<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - A Truly Pleasant Surprise
Charming! Fun to watch.
Far, far better than its current 5.9 IMDB user rating would lead you to believe. - DirectorSteven R. MonroeStarsAlicia WittAndrew W. WalkerDrake HogestynMeg wants to save her neighborhood from getting demolished. She then discovers that Nate has other plans. Can she turn Nate's heart toward Christmas?<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - Good chemistry and a nicely structured plot
In other IMDB user reviews a number of people commented on the good chemistry between the leads, but a roughly equal number felt there was little or no chemistry. Put me down firmly on the side of *good* chemistry, supported by a charming, cheerful, positive plot that is thoughtfully structured and nicely developed.
Every year there always seems to be at least one Hallmark movie where some treasured institution or tradition is about to be sold/converted/demolished, etc. This is one of the best of that genre I have seen. - DirectorDustin RikertStarsLaura OsnesKrystal Joy BrownTom McGowanWhen Anna offers a stranded mother and son shelter in a blizzard, she learns that they are the Royal Family of Galwick. Anna shows the Prince how they do Christmas in her hometown, encouraging him to open his heart and be true to himself.TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "jagfannn" wrote:
Very enjoyable Christmas movie!
The female lead is very funny in this version of this Royal meets ordinary girl story. Rather than trembling in his presence, she actually busts on him a little bit in a sweet and funny way. The male lead (The Prince) is a little too entitled, arrogant but they still manage to achieve some chemistry when it matters. So with the help of a good cast, and interesting subplots, the end result is a good holiday movie, and her singing voice WOW! I enjoyed this one.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6228441/?ref_=tt_urv - DirectorDavid WeaverStarsCandace Cameron BureWarren ChristieJordana LargyAt Christmas, a cheerful publicist teams up with a cynical VP and his eclectic team to help a charity in need.<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "drdianastout" wrote:
The Cyclone Hits!
I'll admit, at first, I thought this story was a bit boring, ... thinking this was going to be another typical Hallmark movie. Ho, ho, ho, far from it.
... the real surprise occurred halfway into the story when I realized that this was a spoof remake, a fantastic nod to The Wizard of Oz. ... From there on out, I laughed at the clues, the well-known phrases, and even the character names.
Brilliant!
(The above excerpts have been re-ordered. The full original review is linked below.)
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6326461/?ref_=tt_urv - DirectorMichael GrossmanStarsRobert BuckleyAna AyoraTreat WilliamsWorking through some difficult decisions, a mother and father summon their two grown sons home for the holidays.<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - Past, Present, and Future
The plot did a nice job of weaving a family's past events into a story about their present concerns, and clanging their plans for the future. Nicely done. Rewarding story. - DirectorRon OliverStarsErin CahillRyan PaeveyBrandi AlexanderCharles Whitley travels from 1903 to 2020 where he meets Megan Turner and experiences a 21st Century Christmas.TV-ROM-COM - A Timeless Classic
I really enjoyed the way they handled the time travel aspect and the resulting cultural displacement, but I especially appreciated the growth of the main character as he learned to appreciate the historical events triggered by his departure from 1903. - DirectorAllan HarmonStarsAshley WilliamsNiall MatterLisa MacFaddenMaggie is facing Christmas alone until Lucas become an unexpected house guest.<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - Cheerful plot
I liked the movie a lot. I liked the way the lead characters were developed in the context of the plot situations, and how their personal histories were revealed. - DirectorJeff FisherStarsMeredith HagnerBobby CampoMegan ParkA hopeless romantic who can't ever seem to give a guy a real chance begins receiving each of the "12 Days of Christmas" as gifts anonymously at her door and begins to believe that the mystery suitor may finally live up to her expectations.<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "MIssM19" wrote:
I really loved it!
I gotta be honest, the minute I saw the main character, I asked myself "what have I gotten myself into?" I thought it was going to be one long hour and a half, but surprise, it wasn't at all. I think that what made this movie so special was the chemistry between the characters, they looked like they were having fun for real, and every time Liam looked at Cynthia I melt. I actually enjoyed both characters. This is definitely going to my favorite hallmark movies list.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw3618290/?ref_=tt_urv - DirectorCatherine CyranStarsRachael Leigh CookGreyston HoltJon CorAfter their flight is diverted, two old school friends work together to try and get back home in time for Christmas.<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - A tale of two movies
The other user reviews of this movie seem to fall into one of two categories: (1) the plot is too improbable to relate to, so the reviewer couldn't enjoy the movie; or (2) recognizing the kind of plot it has, the reviewer enjoyed the funny, touching moments that it brings, and appreciated the good dialogue lines scattered throughout the movie. Count me in the second category! This movie was a lot of fun, and I really enjoyed the way the romantic side of the story developed in the context of the lead characters' backstories. - DirectorGary HarveyStarsEric MabiusJennifer FinniganSusan HoganA resort developer tasked with finding a location for a new ski resort is assigned to visit the small town of Christmas, Colorado.<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "cindi-34402" wrote:
Enjoyable
Though the Hallmark movies churned out every year now are pretty predictable, the chemistry and banter between the romantic leads were better than the norm.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw4508784/?ref_=tt_urv - DirectorFrank CapraStarsJames StewartDonna ReedLionel BarrymoreAn angel is sent from Heaven to help a desperately frustrated businessman by showing him what life would have been like if he had never existed.THEATER RELEASE - A true classic! Nothing more needs to be said. Be sure to watch it at least once.
- DirectorGeorge SeatonStarsEdmund GwennMaureen O'HaraJohn PayneAfter a divorced New York mother hires a nice old man to play Santa Claus at Macy's, she is startled by his claim to be the genuine article. When his sanity is questioned, a lawyer defends him in court by arguing that he's not mistaken.THEATER RELEASE - A classic! This 1947 version is the best one to watch, either in B&W or colorized. This is one of the few B&W films where I actually prefer the colorized version because for this particular movie it is brighter and easier to view. Also, Santa looks better in a red coat! (FYI - At one point I found the colorized version on AMC.)
- DirectorClay KaytisStarsKurt RussellDarby CampJudah LewisThe story of sister and brother, Kate and Teddy Pierce, whose Christmas Eve plan to catch Santa Claus on camera turns into an unexpected journey that most kids could only dream about.NETFLIX movie - User Reviewer "RmatthewC" wrote:
A Good Candidate to become a Christmas Classic
This movie was very enjoyable for adults and kids in the family. Cinematic quality was excellent, had a good script, acting was great, and the Santa character is the best I've seen or read since The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. We'll watch this again a few times this Christmas season.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw4473325/?ref_=tt_urv
NOTE: The sequel, The Christmas Chronicles 2, is a dud. Watch it if you want to, but don't watch it just because this movie is so good. - DirectorBrian HerzlingerStarsMarguerite MoreauMike FaiolaBrady SmithA widow's daughter writes to Santa Claus, asking for her mother to find love again. When a struggling writer receives the letter, he finds new inspiration and the beginnings of a romance.<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "Debzreview" wrote:
Good One
From the beginning of this movie I knew it was different than the usual Hallmark movie. The story line lends itself to Hallmark but there is just something about the way it was written and directed that draws you in. ... This is easily one of my favorites. ...
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw3857453/?ref_=tt_urv - DirectorT.W. PeacockeStarsKellie MartinColin FergusonAva PrestonBefore the holidays, Sara goes to Montana to help a man save his ranch.<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "tocanepauli" wrote:
I loved this!
I know people have low rated this but I loved it! This was a great Hallmark movie. Great characters, good story, lovely scenery, dreams coming true.. it had it all. This is what a Christmas movie is all about. If you have a dream (even a little one) watch this......
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw5328452/?ref_=tt_urv - DirectorMark JeanStarsMia KirshnerBen SavageMarilu HennerAs Christina prepares her restaurant for its busiest time of year, she gets her DNA test revealing that she's Jewish. The discovery leads her to a new family and an unlikely romance over eight nights.TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "vkrasneski" wrote:
Captivating
One of the best holiday movies this year. From beginning to end, every scene well portrayed and directed. Casting was brilliant along with the surprise of Ben Savage. Your heart will be filled with joy as you watch these characters develop into a beautiful story. Enjoy! I did~
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6363500/?ref_=tt_urv - DirectorClare NiederpruemStarsMelissa Claire EganMarc BlucasLatarsha RoseThe plot revolves around a woman (Egan) and a soldier (Blucas) who exchange letters for a year before their worlds collide.
TV-ROM-COM - Heartwarming -- a pleasure to watch
An interesting plotline develops from a chance situation, bringing together romance and life choices in a way that is both satisfying and believable. The lead characters seem very real, which adds to the depth of the movie and lets the audience really appreciate how the various subplots work out in the end. - DirectorRon UnderwoodStarsMelissa Joan HartMario LopezTimothy BottomsA struggling artist working as a waitress kidnaps one of her customers to take home to meet her parents at Christmastime.<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - This actually worked!
Silly as the premise might be, they actually pulled it off in a way that worked, and made for a truly enjoyable movie. Not only was this a good comedy, it was a good family movie as well. Be sure to stick with it through the awkward early scenes until you get past the country store. Smooth sailing from there. - DirectorMichael M. ScottStarsBrooke BurnsHenry WinklerWarren ChristieJen, a corporate analyst and single mom, tackles Christmas with a business-like approach until her uncle arrives with a handsome stranger in tow.TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "disneyed" wrote:
Possibly my favorite Hallmark Christmas
I really love this movie. There's humor, romance, conflict, warmth and sentimentality. What's not to love about Henry Winkler? And there is real chemistry between the lead characters. A movie that even your husband may enjoy!
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw4503280/?ref_=tt_urv
