Two Fan Favorites Bring Joy to Hallmark Channel

 

©2024 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Eric Zachanowich

        On November 1, 2024, Hallmark Channel premiered 'A Carol for Two', which quickly became popular amongst the diehard Hallmark fans. In the film, "New to New York, talented singer Violette takes a job as a singing waitress. Things get complicated when her duet partner sets her up with a friend but starts developing feelings himself." The ensemble cast includes Ginna Claire Mason, Jordan Litz, Charlotte d'Amboise, and Stephanie Sy. But what did the critics say?

        Liz Kocan of Decider says, "A Carol For Two is essentially part Christmas revue, filled with carols and hymns and original songs, part romance, with an off-Broadway backdrop. While many Christmas-y movies look the part, with their beautifully decorated sets and twinkly cityscapes, this one also sounds the part, placing beloved Christmas music (and loads of musical theater references) throughout to add to the festive appeal. The movie is at its worst when Brad, grieving his past relationship to a shallow girlfriend named Chanel, tries to win over Violette just because… he can? He makes no effort to get to know her or treat her well, he simply wants to win her over to feel less lonely, which is, I suppose, the point; his blustery personality is in stark contrast to Alex’s reserved, serious demeanor, but secretly, Alex is the one observing Violette and really seeing her for the woman she is. Despite the obvious, deceptive plotting, the film never gets too bogged down by that, and the talented cast and musical performances ultimately make it shine." Adding, "Our Call: You don’t have to be a theater nerd to love A Carol For Two (it wouldn’t hurt though), but if you love Christmas for the music and the hopeful shot of happiness it tends to bring, this one’s for you. STREAM IT!"

        On October 31, 2024, Hallmark Channel also premiered 'My Sweet Austrian Holiday', which also left viewers and critics wanting more. In the the film, "Charlotte recently moved to Vienna and became a chocolatier after inheriting her grandparents' chocolate shop. Henry has just taken over his father's company that is trying to take over Charlotte's shop." The ensemble cast includes Will Kemp and Brittany Bristow. Liz Kocan also reviewed the film, stating, "My Sweet Austrian Holiday brings together the best of Christmas: gorgeous B-roll of Vienna at the holidays, tons of food porn, truly likeable characters, and feel-good optimism. STREAM IT!" Adding, "Henry was never meant to be a greedy monster (that honor goes to Morgana), instead, he represents what we wish corporate bros would behave like. Men who aren’t only beholden to the almighty dollar, but who want to use their power for good. It’s heartwarming because it feels so fictional, you know? But if living in this cinematic world full of fancy chocolates and people who do the right thing is fiction, it’s hard to want to live in the real world where billionaires only want to conquer space while their 20-something girlfriends breed a small army for them. I think I’m getting off track. My point is that My Sweet Austrian Holiday is a truly appealing film on several levels; the characters themselves are all layered and interesting, and Will Kemp and Brittany Bristow are well-matched with a warmth that’s hard to resist. Also, CHOCOLATE. So much melted, drizzling chocolate everywhere, Augustus Gloop would not know how to behave. But the film wants us to hope that everyone will will live happily ever after because they all do the right thing and look out for one another. The fictional Hallmark billionaire who looks out for the little guy is a common trope this holiday season, we’ve run across him in a couple of films now, and I can only assume it’s something the good people at Hallmark are manifesting for us all."

©2024 Hallmark Media/Photographer: Courtesy Leif Films