I know I’ve had some controversial opinions in my columns from time to time, but I really think this one takes the fruitcake.
I don’t think Hallmark holiday movies are all that bad.
Before you storm my office with burning Christmas trees and candy-cane pitchforks, hear me out.
I realize the overused holiday movie formula has, by sheer attrition, eroded a path into our collective hearts over the years, rarely changing and always ending on a happy, hokey holiday-themed note. The plots almost invariably centre around a rich 20-something (usually engaged) who looks like they strode straight out of a department store catalogue, seeking just something more this holiday season. That’s when they meet up with their polar (no pun intended) opposite, a boutique owner/driftwood artist from Small Town, USA, sometimes with a plucky, wise-beyond-their-years child and a perfectly groomed dog in tow, and uh oh – they meet, they clash, they kiss, they fall in love and it looks like they just might get together for the holidays.
But what’s this? The city guy/gal has to make that landmark decision about Big Opportunity or Fiancee Who Isn’t Quite Right For Them. Will they get on the plane? Will Quirky Artist stop them in time? Will they save Santa, Christmas and their true love story? The suspense! The thrills! The surprise ending no one saw coming except everyone!
It’s all been done before. Like legions of cut-out Christmas cookies, dozens of these movies all look remarkably similar, taste the same and come all wrapped up in a Christmas bow to form a nice, neat traditional package. Some would say the samey nature of these movies are exactly the problem, and in some ways, I don’t disagree. However, that’s also exactly why these movies continue to be successful.
It may be an unwritten rule, but I think we’ve all come to an understanding that this breed of Hallmark movies is holiday-themed, cinematic junk food. I don’t think they aspire to be anything more ambitious than what they are, and honestly, that’s okay.
These movies don’t apologize for sticking to a singular, unwavering plot. Everyone involved knows what they are, and they’re content with that. They’re a little cheesy, of course, but they’re honest about it, and I respect that honesty. I think you should, too. Plus, a few of them have been filmed right here in our backyard, and it’s always fun to see some of the familiar landmarks make it into movies.
We all know the Christmas cookie – like these holiday movies – aren’t the most satisfying things we can consume. In some cases, they may not even be the best cookies of the season. But they’re dressed up for the holidays and they’re part of our tradition and will continue to be so. When it comes to the season, it’s best enjoyed when you can immerse yourself fully in the season, cookies, junk food and all.
In short, don’t feel guilty if you like those cheesy dime-a-dozen holiday movies. There are more fans out there than you might think. These movies may not take home an Oscar within our lifetimes, but we all know that. They’re just another harmless reminder that we’re all a little more cheesy, silly and intense about our traditions during this time of year.
Have a wonderful and blessed holiday season, Agassiz-Harrison, and keep those Christmas movies running.