Hallmark movies are often criticized for their predictable and fairytale-like storylines—which are unlikely to happen in reality—only if you're lucky enough, lol; however, we as an audience cannot deny that at times, we do love watching these joyous movies for feeling the sense of escapism and heartwarmingness.
While these movies boast various impressive romance tropes, some of them likely bring the magic of books to screens—and that's what even this article is about. Here are 5 Hallmark book-to-movie adaptations that are a must-watch.
The Beach House
Filmmaker Roger Spottiswoode brings to life the story of Caretta Rudland based on Mary Alice Monroe's novel, who goes through a hard time after losing her job in Chicago. At her mother's request, she revisits their family beach house, where she learns shocking news, which requires her to make peace with the past and restore current relations. Meanwhile, an environmental disaster's arrival changes her perspective toward life and the environment.
The Beach House stands out from other Hallmark movies because of its unique themes concerning environment, self-growth, complex familial relationships, love, and healing from the past. Set against the scenic beauty of Tybee Island Georgia, the movie highlights how adversity and emotional moments have a way of reuniting family by keeping aside all the grudges. Specifically, Andie MacDowell through her genuine performance won hearts as Lovie, a strong mother and turtle protector, who suffers from terminal illness yet stands strong and cares deeply for the ones she loves.
Trading Christmas
Trading Christmas is about Emily Spengler, a widowed mother and a second-grade school teacher, who looks forward to her daughter Heather's arrival on Christmas. However, when she realizes that her daughter is not coming home for the festivities, she decides to go to Boston and meet her. On a house-swapping website, she switches houses with Charles Johnson, an English professor living in Boston. Her Christmas becomes special when she decides to give love a second chance.
Trading Christmas is an adaptation of Debbie Macomber's novel, whose mastery lies in the romance genre. Her stories embrace profound emotional themes surrounding contemporary love and family, and so does this hallmark movie which juggles three different love stories with each one reaching a positive conclusion. Overall, it's an enjoyable movie where the characters don't ruin your Christmas spirit.
The Secret Ingredient
Disheartened by her engagement breakup with Andrew, Bakery owner Kelly has a hard time falling in love again. But who knew destiny would bring together former lovers in an unexpected way? When Kelly is invited to participate in the Valentine's Day Bake-Off, she again comes across her ex who is also a contestant. The question remains: will this contest make them realize their love for one another or will it send them separate ways?
When it comes to a perfect Hallmark romance movie, the Nancy Naigle adaptation of The Secret Ingredient tends to check all the boxes in being one. It stars veteran romance actors Erin Cahill and Brendan Penny whose charming chemistry and performances elevate a predictable narrative. Plus point to the makers who have appealed to not just titular genre fans but also cooking show lovers and foodies with their blended narrative. It also taught us whether it is food or relationship, love indeed is a secret ingredient that makes it better.
Time For You To Come Home For Christmas
Time For You To Come Home For Christmas revolves around Katherine Moss, a mourning widow and a bank employee, who is hesitant at first to visit Provincetown for Christmas, as there resides a lot of memories of her now deceased husband. Eventually, she somehow convinces herself to go back to her hometown along with her son Will. This last-minute decision turns out to be best for her when she comes across musician Jack Sutherland, whom she eventually clicks with.
This Hallmark adaptation shows how one art takes numerous forms, as the book "Time for Me to Come Home" which the movie is based on was originally a song in the Christmas album of Blake Shelton, which eventually got converted into a novel and now into a Christmas movie. Alison Sweeney, who is popularly known for Murder She Baked and Chronicle Mysteries television films, yet again showcases her effortless acting prowess as a strong character dealing with so many emotions at the same time. A heartwarming family movie that deals with themes of love, grief, and second chances.
The Irresistible Blueberry Farm
The Irresistible Blueberry Farm is inspired by Mary Simses' book, which is about Ellen, a New York Lawyer, who after her grandma's death learns about her last wish and embarks on a journey to fulfill it. Her wish was to hand deliver a letter to a guy named Chet Cumberfield in Beacon, as she tries her best to find the address, the more she finds out about her grandma's past on the way.
The Irresistible Blueberry Farm was deemed one of the best Hallmark movies of 2016. There is just Irresistible charm in the chemistry between Alison Sweeney and Marc Blucas, who unexpectedly strikes a unique connection. Interestingly, the movie's little metaphorical elements provide depth to the overall narrative like the inclusion of the Shirley Jones character which highlights her beyond-the-grave connection with the main lead, while guiding her on the right path.