Introduction
As the holiday season approaches, many people begin to feel nostalgic for the heartwarming films of their childhood. For those who grew up watching classic Hallmark Christmas movies, it can be challenging to find ways to watch old favorites. Fortunately, with modern technology, there are several options for accessing these beloved films. In this article, we will explore the best ways to watch old Hallmark Christmas movies, the best films to watch, how to plan a movie marathon, tips for spotting classic movies on TV, a guide to classic Hallmark tropes, and reviews of some of the most popular films.
How to Find Old Hallmark Christmas Movies
There are two primary ways to access old Hallmark Christmas movies: purchasing DVDs and streaming.
Option 1: Purchasing DVDs
If you want a hard copy of the movie to keep, purchasing DVDs is a great option. Most of the classic Hallmark Christmas movies are available on DVD. Retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target offer various options to choose from.
Option 2: Streaming services
If you don’t want to own physical copies of the movies, streaming is the way to go. Many popular streaming services, including Hallmark’s own streaming service, offer a wide selection of classic Hallmark Christmas movies. Some popular streaming services include:
- Hallmark Movies Now
- Amazon Prime Video
- Netflix
- Hulu
It’s important to note that not all streaming services offer all classic Hallmark Christmas movies. It’s essential to research which service works best for the films you want to watch.
The Best Old Hallmark Christmas Movies
Here is a list of the best classic Hallmark Christmas movies, along with brief plot synopses and recommendations for each film. Additionally, we will include ways to watch each movie.
1. A Christmas Carol
This 1984 movie adaptation of the famous Charles Dickens novel is a heartwarming story that explores the true meaning of Christmas. Stars George C. Scott as Ebenezer Scrooge. It is available for purchase on Amazon and can also be rented or purchased on services like iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu.
2. The Christmas Card
This 2006 movie tells the story of a soldier who receives a Christmas card from a stranger and travels to Nevada to meet the woman who sent it. It is available for streaming on Hallmark Movies Now or for purchase on services like Amazon, iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu.
3. A Very Merry Mix-Up
This 2013 film stars Alicia Witt as a bride-to-be who gets stranded in a small town during the Christmas holidays. It’s available for streaming on Hallmark Movies Now or for purchase on services like Amazon, Google Play, and Vudu.
4. The Most Wonderful Time of the Year
This 2008 film stars Brooke Burns as a single mom who falls in love with her uncle’s friend, played by Henry Winkler. It’s available for streaming on Hallmark Movies Now or for purchase on services like Amazon, Google Play, and Vudu.
5. A Christmas Detour
This 2015 television movie stars Candace Cameron Bure as a woman who is forced to take a detour while traveling to her fiancé’s house for Christmas. It’s available for streaming on Hallmark Movies Now or for purchase on services like Amazon, Google Play, and Vudu.
6. The Christmas Train
This 2017 film stars Dermot Mulroney as a journalist who takes a cross-country train ride during the Christmas holidays. It’s available for streaming on Hallmark Movies Now or for purchase on services like Amazon and Vudu.
7. Crown For Christmas
This 2015 film stars Danica McKellar as a maid who becomes a governess and falls in love with a prince. It’s available for streaming on Hallmark Movies Now or for purchase on services like Amazon, Google Play, and Vudu.
How to Plan a Hallmark Christmas Movie Marathon
Watching Christmas movies can be a great way to get into the holiday spirit. Here are some tips for planning a successful Hallmark Christmas movie marathon:
1. Choose the Perfect Viewing Space
It’s essential to create a cozy and comfortable viewing space to enjoy the films fully. Make sure you have enough seating for everyone, and set the mood with warm blankets, pillows, and decorations like string lights and festive candles.
2. Choose the Perfect Line-up of Movies
When planning a movie marathon, it’s important to consider the order in which you will watch the films. Generally, starting with more lighthearted films and building up to the more dramatic ones is a good strategy. It’s also important to consider the length of each movie and how many you can realistically fit into the marathon.
3. Tips for a Successful Movie Marathon
Make sure to take regular breaks and have plenty of snacks and drinks available for your guests. It’s also a good idea to set aside time after each film to discuss it and share your thoughts and opinions.
How to Spot Classic Hallmark Movies on TV
It’s possible to find classic Hallmark Christmas movies on television, although it may require some effort. Here are some tips for spotting them:
1. Check Your Local TV Guide
Many classic Christmas movies air on local channels during the holiday season. Check your local TV guide to see if any of the films you want to watch are scheduled to air.
2. Hallmark Channel
Hallmark Channel is known for airing classic Christmas movies during the holiday season. Check their schedule to see when your favorite movies will air.
A Guide to Classic Hallmark Movie Tropes
Classic Hallmark Christmas movies often have common tropes and storylines. Here are some examples:
1. The Small Town Romance
Many classic Hallmark Christmas movies take place in small towns and feature a romantic plotline. Examples include “Christmas in Evergreen” and “Christmas Under Wraps.”
2. Holiday Homecoming
Another common trope is the holiday homecoming storyline. Examples include “A Christmas Detour” and “The Christmas Train.”
3. Family Reconciliation
Some classic Hallmark Christmas movies focus on family reconciliation. Examples include “The Christmas Card” and “A Heavenly Christmas.”
Reviews of Old Hallmark Christmas Movies
Many classic Hallmark Christmas movies have become fan favorites. Here are some critical analyses of popular films:
1. “The Christmas Card”
“The Christmas Card” is a heartwarming movie that explores the meaning of love and sacrifice. It’s well-acted and has a beautiful soundtrack. While the ending may be predictable, it’s still an enjoyable watch.
2. “Christmas in Evergreen”
“Christmas in Evergreen” is a delightful movie that captures the magic of Christmas. The characters are relatable, and the storyline is heartwarming. It’s a great movie for the whole family to enjoy.
The History of Hallmark Christmas Movies
The first Hallmark Christmas movie, “The Christmas Card,” was released in 2006. Since then, the industry has grown exponentially, and Hallmark has become synonymous with the holiday season. In 2019, Hallmark produced 40 brand new Christmas movies, and the genre’s popularity continues to grow.
Conclusion
Old Hallmark Christmas movies are a beloved part of many people’s holiday traditions. Fortunately, there are several options available for watching these classic films, whether through purchasing DVDs or streaming. Planning a movie marathon can be a fun activity for families and friends, and there are tips for selecting the perfect line-up and creating a cozy viewing space. Additionally, there are several ways to spot classic movies on TV, and understanding common Hallmark tropes can enhance the viewing experience. Whether you prefer heartwarming romances or family dramas, there’s a classic Hallmark Christmas movie for everyone to enjoy.
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