Top 25 TV Christmas ROM-COMs
A LIST OF THE MOST ENJOYABLE, MEMORABLE, AND LIKABLE TV CHRISTMAS ROM-COM MOVIES
My Top 25 personal favorites. (Note: My ratings vary from 8 to 10. This list *is* in order of overall preference, with my most enjoyable movie as #1.)
(ROM-COM definition: see Romantic comedy - Wikipedia
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romantic_comedy)
The primary criterion for being added to this list is for a made-for-TV ROM-COM 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.
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.
In order to better distinguish them, I rate these 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.
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.
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- DirectorJonathan WrightStarsAlicia WittMark WiebeLawrence DaneAlice is set to meet her future in-laws for the first time, but things don't go according to plan.<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - A marvelous, memorable movie
I remembered this movie for years after first seeing it, and now after seeing it again I realized that it was even better than I had remembered.
The improbable but believable plot sets up a situation where people discover what is really important to them and reach heartfelt decisions, but it is also good fun along the way. Good acting and interesting characters carry the plot to a very nice conclusion. - 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 - DirectorPaul A. KaufmanStarsJulie BenzMichael ShanksLauren K. RobekA widow of a war hero takes in an injured soldier who has just returned from Afghanistan. Together they help each other heal and find true love.<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - Touching, heartfelt, meaningful, moving, satisfying.
This seemed very real. It was also uplifting. One of the best of the military homecoming themed Christmas films.
I agree with User Reviewer "bradshawl-1" who wrote: "This is a beautiful story of loss and healing."
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw4454588/?ref_=tt_urv&mode=desktop&rtm=1&rtm_sr=1 - DirectorMark JeanStarsBrandon RouthKimberley SustadStephanie BennettAfter a stray cat adopts Zachary, he meets Marilee and realizes the single life is not as fulfilling as he thought it was.TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "Anonnamus" wrote: Sad I didn't watch this sooner!
This is a charming film that contains all the best things; romance, humor, and animals. It's rare you find two extremely likable leads yet Nine Lives of Christmas has managed to do just that.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw4669504/?ref_=tt_urv - DirectorMichael M. ScottStarsBrooke BurnsHenry WinklerWarren ChristieCorporate analyst and single mom, Jen, 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 - 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. - 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. - 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 - 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 - 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. - 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. - 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 - 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 - 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 - DirectorAnthony C. FerranteStarsJennifer FreemanJohnny PacarMichael CoponA woman proposes to her boyfriend who says he has to work things out with an ex before he can answer, leaving her to take a romantic sleigh ride alone with a sympathetic driver.<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - Nicely developed
Nice story. I am always intrigued by movies that some people like a lot and others not so much. In this case, I am grateful to User Reviewer 'toddsgraham' for providing me with the motivation to watch this movie, based on his "Fancy a sleigh ride with Snowdrop..." review comments.
Put me down on the side of savoring how the film's key relationship gently develops, supported by good dialogue and good acting. I am already reflecting back on this movie with good feelings.
The 'toddsgraham' write up can be found here:
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw6368076/?ref_=tt_urv - DirectorMarita GrabiakStarsErin CahillDavid AlpayDakota GuppyA busy single mom tasked with organizing her city's Christmas parade discovers an antique sleigh which seems to have a mind of its own.<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - It gets better and better
What might have been a decent but otherwise routine plan-an-event type of ROM-COM is elevated by the lead characters' interplay around their respective, and partially shared, backstories. Tracy and Hepburn its not, but this adds spice to the story. The movie rises further to become memorable by the addition of the most charming Santa look-alike since Edmund Gwenn's portrayal in 1947's "Miracle on 34th Street". The Sleigh, itself, deserves an honorable mention in a supporting role. I recommended hanging in there through a slow start and some awkward dialogue early on. I think you'll be glad you did. - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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. - 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. - DirectorDon McBreartyStarsBrooke D'OrsayDaniel LissingMary-Margaret HumesAn aspiring crafter working in her small town's bakery shows the new big-city CEO that it's people and not machines which make the business a success.<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - User Reviewer "ambie719" wrote:
Predictable but enjoyable
There is nothing about this movie that isn't just another Hallmark standard formula but Brooke D'Orsay makes up for it with her charm. She and Daniel Lissing play off of each well which makes what could be a boring movie legitimately enjoyable.
https://www.imdb.com/review/rw4469934/?ref_=tt_urv - 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. - 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 - DirectorJames HaymanStarsLaura MiyataVijay MehtaAmy SmartA story that follows Kate, a young woman who after a horrible blind date on Christmas Eve, wakes up to find she is re-living that same day and date all over again.<HIDDEN GEM>
TV-ROM-COM - A fresh twist on a modern classic
Wow. This movie was so much better than I expected! I had figured that any attempt to build a movie along a "Groundhog Day" theme would simply look pale by comparison, but this one took enough of a fresh tack that it effectively carved out its own path. It was really enjoyable, without looking derivative. A lot of humor. Highly recommended.
There is also a 2020 movie with the same title, so be sure to get this 2011 version. Also, be aware that there are a number of others with very similar titles, such as 2020's "On the 12th Date of Christmas" which at one point I had mistaken for this one.