The Politics of Hallmark Xmas Movies
The Ridiculously Formulaic Christmas Movie is big business. But what are its roots and how damaging are its tropes?
Quiet Riot · Alex Andreou, Naomi Smith, Kenny Campbell
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Show Notes
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Hallmark has pumped out over 800 of these original movies - and I use the term original very loosely. Its countdown to Xmas generates over a third of its entire revenue during this one month.
But where do these films have their roots? Are they a new phenomenon or just the modern version of Pride & Prejudice? Are they an anti-capitalist subversion teaching that work and materialism do not equal happiness? Or a MAGA misogynist festival that seeks to humiliate women who have the temerity to seek a life, education, or career outside their home town?
Alex compares notes with film critic Linda Marric, to get to the bottom of their enduring, and - given their quality - pretty surprising popularity.
GOOD FESTIVE PICKS
SO BAD THEY ARE GOOD FESTIVE PICKS
- Harvest Love
- A Law for Christmas
- 'Tis The Season to Be Merry
- Christmas at the Holly Hotel
- Sister Swap - City Edition
- Sister Swap - Country Edition
- Hallmark's daring interracial effort: Something from Tiffany's
- Hallmark's first gay starring couple: The Holiday Sitter
- Hallmark's does Hannukah: Love, Lights, Hannukah!
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With Naomi Smith, Alex Andreou and Kenny Campbell – in cahoots with Sandstone Global.
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