In previous posts, I’ve talked about various pros and cons of Hallmark movies. But to be totally honest, I’m a Hallmark movie junkie. I know way too much about them, and I have way too many favorites (assuming 50 is too many). Still, I can admit that some Hallmark movies—for one reason or another—aren’t worth watching.
I didn’t write this post because every single Hallmark movie is amazing. Rather, I wrote this post because—in general—non-Hallmark movies in the “romantic” category are trashy. I realize that’s a hot take, but I genuinely want to help you grow in your faith—and movies that don’t honor God won’t help you grow. So if you’re looking for alternatives this Valentine’s Day, I have a few to share with you:
1. The Sweetest Heart
This Hallmark movie has a super cliché plot, but it’s so perfect for Valentine’s Day. Even though it’s simple, it’s romantic. Plus, there are two sets of characters who fall in love (aka a “double romance”), which makes The Sweetest Heart extra sweet.
In short, a cardiologist and a bakery owner fall back in love after being apart for a while. When they initially reconnect, there’s some tension between them. But love is in the air, so the tension magically evaporates within minutes. (Yay!)
2. Paging Mr. Darcy
This is another Hallmark movie with a “double romance,” but this one is set at a Jane Austen conference. If you enjoy Hallmark, Jane Austen, or both, then Paging Mr. Darcy is certainly worth trying. Overall, it’s an amusing movie with a pretty decent amount of depth and drama.
When an uptight professor meets a Mr. Darcy impersonator at a Jane Austen conference, she’s not into him at first. (Shocker!) However, she comes to realize that there’s more to him than meets the eye. Before long, they realize they actually get along quite well.
3. Love in Winterland
Honestly, I don’t remember all the details about this Hallmark movie (which is totally my bad). However, I do remember it’s cute and wintery. Also, a dating show is central to the plot.
While the main character is a contestant on a dating show, she reconnects with her old boyfriend. Even though he still really likes her, it takes some time for her to warm up to him again. (Did you notice and enjoy that pun?) But in the end, true love prevails.
Closing Thoughts
No matter what your Valentine’s Day looks like this year, I have one simple recommendation: Try to avoid filling your heart, mind, and soul with words, images, and messages that don’t align with God’s Word. I know it’s hard to find romantic movies that are actually wholesome, but there are three in this post (and there are a handful of others out there). If you focus on what is good and right and true, you really can have an enjoyable time on this holiday regardless of your relationship status. I hope you have a happy Valentine’s Day!
For at one time you were in darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. (Ephesians 5:8-10 ESV)
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