Okay so the news is pretty bad. If only the solution to all the crazy were simply just not watching. Sadly, as tempting as that would is, it really only offers a temporary fix. Whether or not we watch, it’s still happening.
Like closing the curtains against the rain. Still raining.
Although I often feel conflicted about knowing what’s going on out there, I do admit there is nothing that can uplift me more than simply remaining in the dark about all the insanity.
Perhaps what I understand better than ever nowadays, is that ignorance truly is bliss.
That seeking to undo the funkiness of life is noble and healthy.
Speaking of people who know how to hide the crazy, I’d say the Hallmark Channel has cornered the market on escape.
Yes, they are my new heroes. I don’t know when or who came up with the idea that pure escapism equals viewers and lots of money, but I’m sure they’re being compensated well.
As if the movies, streaming channel and other marketing isn’t enough, Hallmark now has the Christmas cruises. Kudos when so many have turned to ecards to send greetings, but I have a friend that practically keeps them in business. She sends snail mail cards if it’s raining outside to cheer you up.
An extension of their Christmas in July movie marathon, this is pure genius.
They are also airing the coverage of the cruise.
These guys are masterminds at marketing and sending a message.
Seriously, if you’ve ever wondered who goes on these cruises, Hallmark answers all your questions.
The interviews with some of the guests serves two important functions.
First, it highlights the gushing adoration the fans have for the, as I named them, “The Hallmark Players.” The excitement and selfies when fan and star meet creates magic. These people truly love these actors. They are invested in their roles, their lives and their personas.
Second it also highlights many of the struggles and challenges these people have overcome in their lives to arrive in a state of joy, cruising and meeting their favs. Very inspirational.
And Hallmark knows how to get the most out of inspiration and an idea.
There was a surprise wedding planned by Andrew Walker and Paul Campbell. Women propositioning Tyler Hynes. A young boy searching the ship for his grandmothers who bought him the cruise for his 16th birthday.
Lots of hugging, screaming and actors doing what they love best. Being adored.
So what is the enormous appeal of Hallmark? I’ve covered this before but it seems that they are constantly morphing into more.
It’s beyond just finding a great niche and milking it for all it’s worth.
It’s not about the movies being academy award-winning caliber. Or some of the acting at times being, well to put it kindly a bit pedestrian.
But perhaps it’s exactly for those reasons it all works so well.
There is definitely something to be said for predictability in a world fraught with incredible craziness.
Hallmark movies are not just formula, they are exact. Precise to a fault. One can set their watch by the time in the script the lead actors break up.
Of course, there is never any potential for a sad ending. That wouldn’t do for the millions who have come to expect an uplifting and happy moment when the Hallmark kiss is delivered at movie’s end.
There is also a feeling that the affection between certain actors is genuine. Even if they are not romantically linked off screen, it’s made clear they are good friends.
There is an easiness to their performance that isn’t forced and certain couples click well. Paul Campbell and Kimberly Sustad, who also write together, Lacy Chabert and Brennan Elliott, Andrew Walker and Nikki DeLoach, Alison Sweeney and Victor Webster and Erin Krakow and Daniel Lissing. Tyler Hynes and everyone.
There is also a certainty that watching it with your children will never be awkward or embarrassing. Family values are top priorities. One does get a sense the Hallmark Players are a true family and they enhance this theme.
Even the secondary actors or supporting players like Barbara Niven, Brenda Crichlow, Bruce Boxleitner, Gregory Harrison and many others are predictable. Seeing the same faces also adds that familiarity and comfort to the mix.
Hallmark has made the old movie studio stable of actors system new again. Minus the Louis B. Mayers of course.
Marketing Christmas in July is so smart even the shopping networks do it now. The plot will always include, baking, wrapping gifts decorating the tree and wearing an ugly Christmas sweater.
Let’s face it watching a Hallmark Movie at Christmas or any time is like visiting an old friend for dinner. The recipes may not be trendy and exciting, but they definitely take you back to simpler times.
You know the people and the food prepared will be something you enjoy. At the end of the evening you’ll feel at ease kicking off your shoes and plopping onto the couch in front of the fire. Of course, there will be cocoa with a peppermint stick and whipped cream.
It’s cozy, Christmas, and now even Chanukah makes an appearance for a movie. Hint: a Christmas movie populated with Chanukah decorations.
If you’re wondering, no, I don’t work for Hallmark or do their PR.
I guess I just appreciate that in a world so chaotic it’s still possible to escape to a time when the world was slower, more colorful and decorated.
To be reminded that we all share the challenges and trials of existence on this giant space rock and it is possible to overcome and thrive.
And yes, the predictability and lack of surprise can get old and tired at times. Still there is comfort in knowing when you need it, Hallmark will provide.
So if a movie or a cruise reminds us that flowers can still bloom after a terrible rainstorm, I’m all in.
And if there are lots of puppies, kitties, roaring fireplaces and colorful decorations thrown in, just tell me when to show up. I’ll even wear an ugly Christmas or Chanukah sweater for the occasion.
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