22 Comments

I really dislike the genre but it was interesting to get a glimpse behind the screen to see what makes the industry tick. I loved his observation that there is no room for jerks and divas because of budgets and production time constraints. This guy obviously has an incredible work ethic and a great perspective on what he is doing.

I tend to poo-poo escapist entertainment--- but perhaps we need it now more than ever.

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Also anything that keeps actors, crews directors, editors, writers, etc. employed is a good thing! No matter the genre.

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Such an engaging and informative episode. Thanks to you both.

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Nov 10Liked by Sonny Bunch

I saw the trailer and the hottie frosty is played by the vet from Schitt’s Creek, no? My question after listening to this was even when Christmas movies are made for Netflix do they still need to be PG? Is there a reason Netflix wants to stick to this formula? I personally am not a fan of the genre but this was a totally fun listen and a great distraction from election depression! I love to hear writers talk about their craft, especially screenwriters.

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Thank you. I enjoyed the episode with the look into the behind-the-scenes aspects of the Hallmark genre. I admire your guest and others who are successful in that genre.

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Nov 10Liked by Sonny Bunch

Terrific episode! The first time I've listened to one. Of your interviews, and in looking forward to working my way through the rest.

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I'm a sucker for the Hallmark Christmas movies. A Biltmore Christmas was wonderful. I especially enjoyed it since I've been there many times, and I love both of the leads. My favorite sub genre are the Prince ones. American woman meets prince from fictional European country (all of whom have British accents for some inexplicable reason.) His parents disaprove because he needs to marry this countess they picked out for him. Love conquers all. Film that sucker at some European castle, throw in some fancy gowns and tiaras and I will watch it every single time.

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The Santa Summit is one of my favorite movies. I've watched it multiple times. I have watched almost every Hallmark Christmas movie (450 of them) so finding great ones that are worth rewatching is a treat. The Santa Summit is definitely different than other Hallmark movies and that's what makes it so enjoyable. It's nice to hear the two of you talking respectfully about Hallmark movies. I'm looking forward to Hot Frosty, Three Wiser Men, The Santa Class, and Christmas Under The Lights. Knowing Russell wrote them makes me confident that they'll go on my "will watch again" list. There are only 71 movies on that list, 2 are Russell's and I expect to add 4 more this year. I write "reviews" for my friends on a forum and The Santa Summit was a full page, where most are a few sentences or a paragraph. So many memorable lines and great scenes. Thanks for a fun. informative, and interesting podcast. And thanks for writing such great movies, Russell. Now I have to watch The Santa Summit again for the 3rd time this season. lol

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author

The Santa Summit was surprisingly delightful!

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Now you all have done it, I just purchased The Santa Summit! Looks like something I'm a sucker for.

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Hallmark has a template that is stock but gives a satisfying story

- From the meeting of a seemingly mismatched, mutually hostile or impossible pair and the conflicting goals through the moments of attraction, shared hidden secrets or wounds, surprises, the ways they help each other grow to learn how to deal with their own faults, and reveals then to the misunderstanding or crisis that drives one away from at about the 1 hr 45 min, the way back together and at 1 hr: 59 min, the kiss!

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PS - this reminds me to switch from msnbc so I can relax before going to sleep ... and above - "satisfying story."

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A good tonic for the Times.

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founding

I would always watch 10 minutes of these Christmas movies. The most hilarious part is to see people in heavy winter coats walking in some winter wonderland but no one can see their breath while talking.

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Best Hallmark ever - Five Star Christmas

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Boring….

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author

Thanks for listening!

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Nov 9Liked by Sonny Bunch

Another great episode. If The Bulwark’s political coverage is a double espresso, this is a chocolate stout.

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Nov 9Liked by Sonny Bunch

Nice to read about something fun. I am on board. Especially about Christmas movies!

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Thanks for the offer to skip the cultural coverage. Very adult. But I’m sticking with you. You’re good. Sincerely, the curmudgeon who scolded you for talking too much.

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author

Your previous complaint cracked me up a bit because my ideal host-to-guest speaking ratio on this show (as opposed to ATMA) is about 1:5 or 1:7. I assume most people want to hear what they have to say more than what I have to say. (With ATMA it's closer to 1:1:1 between Peter, Alyssa, and I.

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