Life as a Hallmark (Christmas) Movie

12A

Hallmark Christmas movies are often dismissed for their 'simplistic' predictability. However, if we look closely, they function almost like modern fairy tales or seasonal Shakespearean myths - uncovering meaning through familiar patterns: a festive setting, a protagonist experiencing some form of disconnection, a catalyst that reawakens something within them, and a resolution that feels warm and whole.

And while on the surface these films might seem to be about returning to a small snowy town or rekindling a lost romance, beneath the cozy Christmas facade they speak to something much deeper: a return to self.

Having found profound comfort, inspiration and motivation in the formula herself - Darragh Amelia (filmmaker, curator and certified cinematherapist) is hosting this masterclass to provide a container of sorts for anyone seeking some of the same (or anyone simply interested in dissecting these beloved holiday films).

The masterclass will begin at 14:00, with talks and workshops throughout the day including the following three topics:

What is Hallmark?

Life as a Hallmark (Christmas) Movie

Finding Yourself in the Formula.

There will be breaks, time for discussion and interaction throughout the day.

Following the workshop, there will be a screening of the soon-to-be released Hallmark Christmas film We Met in December (2025) starring Autumn Reeser, Hallmark royalty and from shows like The O.C. and Entourage. There will be an introduction with a special guest TBC and a post film discussion.

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Presented by Guilt-Free Pleasures and curator Darragh Amelia.

Showing as part of our season Too Much: Melodrama on Film - supported by the BFI and Film Hub North.