Aahana Swrup
As the media sphere remains saturated with grand tales of heroics, history, and high-concept adventures, viewers will find themselves requiring a much-needed segue into more grounded and intimate storytelling. This is where Hallmark Plus comes in with its delightful catalog of heartwarming movies with relatable characters, mellow small-town settings, and remarkable romances. Whether you’re looking for a good holiday love story or an inspiring tale of do-gooders, these movies have a certain knack for cozy comfort. However, narrowing down your choice from the streaming platforms’ extensive collection can pose a bit of a daunting task. Well, worry not—for we have put together the perfect list of top Hallmark+ movies that deserve a place on your watchlist! These are also the highest-rated Hallmark movies on IMDb.
20. Loving Leah (2009, IMDb: 7.1)
‘Loving Leah’ presents a story about an unexpected spark of romance that two people find in an unconventional marriage of convenience. Jake Lever is a non-practicing Jewish cardiologist from Washington, DC. Despite his lack of faith, when his Rabbi brother dies, he finds himself tangled up in the ancient Jewish law that presses him to marry his childless sister-in-law, Leah. The only way out is to perform a ceremony—which Jake feels could be a slight to his brother’s memory.
On the other hand, Leah is looking for a way to avoid her mother’s matchmaking efforts and wants to live a new life away from her orthodox community. Consequently, the two decide to help each other out by entering a marriage while keeping their relationship platonic. Nonetheless, once their close proximity opens their eyes to each other’s worldview, the nature of their relationship becomes a lot more complicated. If you’re intrigued to see how their relationship plays out, you can watch the movie here.
19. Christmas with Holly (2001, IMDb: 7.1)
‘Christmas with Holly’ is an on-screen adaptation of the 2010 Lisa Kleypas book ‘Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor.’ It follows the story of Mark Nagle, who has been the legal guardian of her 6-year-old niece, Holly, ever since her mother’s tragic death. Since then, the young girl has gone nonverbal—something in her academic career. As a result, the family of two move to Friday Harbor, the small island town where Mark grew up. There, the duo’s paths cross with Maggie Conway, the new toy shop owner in the community, who is just as lost in life as Mark. However, she might just be exactly what the uncle and his niece need in their life. This endearing story of finding love at the right place at the right time pens a narrative about love and family that is bound to captivate anyone’s heart. You can check out the movie here.
18. Taking a Shot at Love (2021, IMDb: 7.1)
Kevin Fair’s ‘Taking a Shot at Love’ presents a love story that bridges the distance between ice hockey and ballet. Professional ballet dancer Jenna and NHL star player Ryan Cooper are at the center of the storyline as an injury compels the latter to seek out alternative routes of therapy. Thus, after all else fails, Ryan finds himself momentarily moving to Connecticut, where Jenna’s ballet lessons promise to return him to his prime. In the fun-filled recovery sessions that follow, the hockey player and the ballerina end up fixing each other up in fortuitous ways. After creating fertile ground for their romance, the story throws Ryan and Jenna in for a spin, adding drama and a delicate balance to their adorable dynamic. You can see where this relationship leads by checking out the movie here.
17. It Was Always You (2021, IMDb: 7.1)
‘Today Is Not Your Day’ by Marian Thurm serves as the base for Michael Robison’s romcom ‘It Was Always You,’ adding that pinch of bookish charm to Elizabeth and David’s story. Elizabeth is the type of woman who likes to plan her life and make lists for her future to abide by. However, her dream ideas of her love life are thrown into chaos once her fiancee’s brother, David, becomes a surprising addition to her upcoming engagement party. Soon enough, the free-spirited man fixes himself to Elizabeth’s side while she tackles her to-do list before the party. As the bride-to-be finds out, opposites do, in fact, attract, even if her growing feelings for David threaten to overturn every plan she has made for herself in the past. If you’re eager to see exactly how this plays out for the protagonist, check out the movie here.
16. Love and Sunshine (2021, IMDb: 7.1)
The Ellie Kanner directorial ‘Love and Sunshine’ presents a unique chance at romance that is brought about thanks to the titular dog, Sunshine. The Golden Retriever belongs to Jake Terry, a Texan military man. While his owner is away, Sunshine comes under the care of Ally Craig, his foster owner. Consequently, once Jake returns from active duty and takes up some construction jobs around Ally’s home and plant nursery to thank her for her effort, it opens up the perfect door for Sunshine’s two owners to find happiness together. If you’re a sucker for a wholesome tale of love and need a reminder to cherish every moment of every day, you can accompany Jacke and Ally on their journey here.
15. The Courageous Heart of Irena Sendler (2009, IMDb: 7.2)
‘The Courageous Heart of Irena Sendler’ is based on Anna Mieszkowska’s 2007 German biography, ‘Die Mutter der Holocaust-Kinder,’ which tells the rousing true story of the titular character. Irena Sendler is a social worker in Poland during World War II. As the woman notices the injustices against the Jewish population, she proposes the idea of saving the young kids from the Warsaw Ghetto. After undertaking this herculean task, Irena saves the lives of thousands of children, who are smuggled to safety. Yet, her heroic act, once discovered, is met with brutal Nazi punishment. In penning the kind-hearted Catholic social worker’s life, this John Kent Harrison film shines a hopeful light on history and celebrates the amazing feats of unwavering good even in the face of evil. Check out the movie here to dive into Irena Sendler’s history.
14. The Love Letter (1998, IMDb: 7.2)
Based on Jack Finney’s short story, ‘The Love Letter’ presents a tale of love that transcends time. The Dan Curtis directorial features a dual timeline, following Elizabeth Whitcomb in 1863, who finds herself sharing correspondence with Scott Corrigan, a young man from 1998. After Elizabeth had written her first letter, expressing her fanciful hope for true love, she stowed the stationary away in a secret compartment of her desk. That same letter ends up in Scott’s possession after he buys Elizabeth’s antique desk.
As he writes a response to the letter on a whim, he never expects to receive an answer in return. As the two continue exchanging letters, they end up falling in love out of time. This fantastical telling of Elizabeth and Scott’s written romance charms and captivates at every turn. Watch the movie here and transport yourself to a world of wonder.
13. The Most Wonderful Time of the Year (2008, IMDb: 7.3)
‘The Most Wonderful Time of the Year’ is a family comedy film in which a well-meaning uncle tackles the impossible question of what to get his niece for the holidays and arrives at an unpredictable conclusion. Ralph Kendall’s niece, Jennifer Cullen, has always been a little neurotic. Naturally, as she grows and becomes a single mother, her obsessive tendencies bleed onto her Christmas traditions as she perpetually strives for the perfect Holidays, ignorant of the season’s joys. As a result, when Ralph runs into the charismatic Morgan Derby on the plane ride to Jennifer’s, he decides to play matchmaker, bringing the guy along for Christmas. Directed by Michael M. Scoot, Jennifer and Morgan’s unconventional will-they-won’t-they dynamic in this story aims to entertain. You can check it out here.
12. The Christmas Secret (2014, IMDb: 7.3)
‘The Christmas Secret’ is a story about how one act of kindness—and a pesky family heirloom—can turn anyone’s luck for good in unpredictable ways. Christine Eisley is a mother of two who is dealing with a custody battle against her annoying ex. Although she saves an older woman’s life after she gets in a car accident, the detour makes her late for work one too many times, cementing her unemployment. Yet, in the midst of all this bad luck, the rediscovery of a beloved family necklace promises to bring good fortunes back to Christine’s life. This Norma Bailey movie does an excellent job of transporting you to an idyllic small town as Christmastime’s chaos brings wonderful gifts wrapped in unsuspecting wrapping. If you’re interested in unraveling that bow, you can watch the movie here.
11. Once Upon a Christmas Miracle (2021, IMDb: 7.3)
Even though the romance in the Gary Yates film ‘Once Upon a Christmas Miracle’ seems straight out of a fairytale, it is actually inspired by the real stories of two real people. Heather Krueger is a young nursing student who has less than a few months left to live before her failing liver leads to her demise. By some miracle, Chris Dempsey, an ex-marine-turned-organ-donor who is still eager to do his part and save lives, learns of her situation and decides to meet with her.
Unbeknownst to Heather, Chris has already tested and is compatible with her for the implant. As a result, it isn’t long before Heather gains a second chance at life. In the aftermath, as the two remain in touch and become friends, their mutual feelings for one another pose some complications before the couple can arrive at their happily ever afters. Find out what path awaits the pair here.
10. Sarah, Plain and Tall (1991, IMDb: 7.3)
Glenn Jordan’s ‘Sarah, Plain and Tall’ is a moving family drama film set in the 19th century that charts a unique family’s journey to recovery as they try to move on from their respective pasts. It’s based on a children’s book of the same name written by Patricia MacLachlan and revolves around the titular Sarah Wheaten, a simple woman from Maine who responds to Jacob Witting’s advertisement in the newspaper. Jacob is a farmer with two kids, Anna and Caleb.
Jacob is looking for a woman to marry after having lost his wife in childbirth and is surprised to hear about Sarah’s agreement to visit his home for a month to test out how well she fits into his family. Thus, as Sarah embarks on this journey looking for an adventure befitting her life, the Wittings lay in eager wait to see if this union of convenience will bring something more to their lives. This Emmy-winning movie will tug at your heartstrings and leave you with a profound lesson on love and loss.
9. The Lost Valentine (2011, IMDb: 7.4)
‘The Lost Valentine,’ directed by Darnell Martin, is a sentimental film about an eternal love that perseveres despite its tragedy and a new love that blooms in its shadow. In 1944, Caroline says goodbye to her husband, Lieutenant Neil Thomas, a Navy pilot in the army who is off to fight in the war. In the coming years, the woman stays in wait for his return but only receives news of his status as missing in action. Consequently, even 60 years later, every February 14, she continues to visit the train station where she was once separated from her husband, hoping for his potential return.
As TV Journalist Susan Allison learns about Caroline and her Valentine’s Day tradition, she’s compelled to interview her for a story. In the process, the reporter finds herself getting closer to her subject’s grandson, Lucas, who might just reignite her belief in romance. The charming romance, based on James Michael Pratt’s 1998 novel, offers an almost certain guarantee of leaving you a little misty-eyed by its end. If that sounds like your cup of tea, find it to stream here.
8. A Dog Named Christmas (2009, IMDb: 7.4)
Peter Werner’s ‘A Dog Named Christmas’ is a film made for dog lovers who will be delighted to accompany the on-screen four-legged pal on his mission of spreading holiday joy. Todd McCray is a 20-year-old with a learning disability who loves animals. Naturally, as he comes across the local animal shelter’s “Adopt a Dog” program, he’s eager to bring home a pawed friend of his own. Even though he has to face down some of his stern father George’s disapproval, he ends up fostering a labrador, whom he christens Christmas. As the weeks pass, Christmas becomes an invaluable part of the McCray family and teaches Todd a heartfelt lesson. This adaptation of Greg Kincaid’s novel brings a distinct Yuletide tale that focuses on the significance of pet-owner relationships. Feel free to join in on the adventure here.
7. Ghosts of Christmas Always (2022, IMDb: 7.4)
After numerous adaptations of ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Charles Dickens, you might have found yourself wondering about what the lives of the Ghosts within the story might entail. If so, then Rich Newey’s‘ Ghosts of Christmas Always’ is for you! It revolves around Peter Baron, this film’s unusual “Scrooge,” who is about to take over her father’s back-breaking responsibilities at the firm. Yet, before he can embark on that journey, the three ghosts of Christmas, Past/Arlene, Future /Roy, and Present/Katherine, pay him a visit.
Consequently, an unforeseen narrative unfolds as they try to figure out what roles they’re meant to play in Peter’s life to ensure it follows the most ideal path. What follows is a series of adventures that gives Peter an opportunity to understand his own past and the stories of the Christmas ghosts. This fantasy-laced Holiday story, available to stream here, will invite you in with its intriguing concept and offer an even more fascinating romance!
6. The Magic of Ordinary Days (2005, IMDb: 7.5)
‘The Magic of Ordinary Days’ adapts the eponymous 2001 novel by Ann Howard Creel and brings a story about a romance that stems from wonderfully unusual places. During World War II, in 1944, Olivia “Livy” Dunne’s father all but banishes her from the house after she falls pregnant out of wedlock. Furthermore, she’s compelled to marry Ray Singleton, an unsophisticated farmer from rural Colorado. Initially, the simple marriage—stricken only for the well-being of her and her child—leaves Livy unmoored. Yet, with time, the woman grows closer to her husband and learns of his gentle but strong character. As such, despite the rocky road the couple employs, they eventually find themselves on the path that may just lead to true love. This historical love story about an unlikely pair presents an extraordinary tale that will give you butterflies! Find it here to stream.
5. November Christmas (2010, IMDb: 7.5)
‘November Christmas’ is a family film directed by Robert Harmon that presents a hopeful yet devastating look into the life of a family who strives for joy even as they’re staring down the barrel of looming tragedy. Eight-year-old Vanessa Marks has so much left to see and experience in life. However, her terminal cancer diagnosis threatens to put a calamitous boulder in her path. Soon enough, her parents, Tom and Beth, find themselves worrying that their daughter may not live to celebrate the coming holiday season. Thus, to leave Vanessa with as many happy memories as possible, the whole community comes together to bring her the infectious cheer of all the holidays—including an early Christmas. Based on Greg Coppa’s short story, this tear-jerker of a movie will wrap you up in a blanket of warmth and hope as it depicts the significance of banding together under the best and worst of circumstances. You can watch it here.
4. Beyond the Blackboard (2011, IMDb: 7.6)
Based on ‘Nobody Don’t Love Nobody,’ a memoir by Stacey Bess, this film is a truly gratifying real-life story about a compassionate teacher who gave her students her very best. It revolves around Stacey Bess, a young teacher who receives her first assignment on the unconventional but much-needed experimental classroom for homeless children. At first, although she is skeptical of the arrangement, she soon realizes its importance once she gets to know her students. Thus, overcoming her own biases, the teacher becomes a beacon of hope in the classroom as she strives to bring the best education to her wards. If you have a penchant for emotionally stirring movies centering around inspirational characters, then you can watch this Jeff Bleckner directorial here.
3. A Biltmore Christmas (2023, IMDb: 7.7)
If the niche intersection between cheesy, fell-good romance and a complex time-bending premise appeals to your senses, then ‘A Biltmore Christmas’ will be the perfect film for you. Directed by John Putch, it follows the central protagonist, Lucy Collins, a screenwriter who lands her dream job on the remake of the holiday classic movie, “His Merry Wife.” However, something peculiar happens as she visits the original historic Biltmore House and finds herself traveling back in time to 1946 when the original movie was shot.
Although Lucy attempts to take advantage of this bizarre turn of events, she soon finds herself forging an undeniable connection with actor Jack Huston, His Merry Wife’s lead. Consequently, in a clash between preserving the future and finding her own happy ending, Lucy’s love story walks a precarious path. Delve into this wild ride here.
2. The Nine Lives of Christmas (2014, IMDb: 8.1)
If Christmas and cats are among two of your favorite things, you’d be hard-pressed to find a film better-suited for you than ‘The Nine Lives of Christmas.’ Based on the book by Sheila Roberts, this film revolves around Zach, a friendly firefighter with commitment issues, and Marilee, an aspiring vet who is unlucky in love. After Zach becomes the impromptu cat owner to an orange tabby, he finds himself crossing paths with Marliee, the owner of a calico named Queenie. Over the course of their repeated encounters, the two cat owners strike up a rapport. As such, when Marliee’s luck worsens as she’s kicked out of her non-pet-friendly apartment, she finds surprising help from Zach, who flips houses in his downtime. Thus, as cats Ambrose and Queenie strike up a friendship, the question remains: can their owners put their pasts behind them and find their way to each other? Find out the answer to that here.
1. Front of the Class (2008, IMDb: 8.1)
Peter Werner’s ‘Front of the Class’ is a fascinating film that tells the true story of Brad Cohen, a young man with Tourette’s Syndrome who aspires to be a teacher. Throughout his childhood, he is surrounded by the taunts and torments of his peers and an abusive father. Still, he grows into a kind-hearted individual with dreams of becoming a guiding light for students. However, only one failed interview after another comes his way as people refuse to overlook their biases around his disorder.
Still, eventually, one school finally hires him, giving him the chance to shape young minds and fulfill his life’s purpose. This stirring story of overcoming society’s extreme prejudices and shining a light on future generations is based on the 2005 biographical novel by the real Brad Cohen and his co-author Lisa Wysocky. The film is, at once, touching and motivational and will leave you with a thought-provoking message. Feel free to watch it here.
Read More: Hallmark’s The Sweetest Heart: Filming Locations and Cast Details
