There has never been any bias for or against Hallmark Christmas films. Actually think there are a mix of good, bad (and worse in some cases) and somewhere between mediocre and decent, so it's a variable output really. One just needs to know what to expect and not to expect too much. Have also had any bias for this genre and the two leads are no strangers to good performances even in hit and miss film choices. Did like the idea for the story, although the structure is samey the setting is a departure to the usual ones seen.

'Hearts of Christmas' is a very pleasant watch and when taken for what it is and meant to be it succeeds at what it set out to do. Expectations were mixed, they were met and exceeded. The title is a pretty sugary one, but the film isn't as much so it's another case of not judging a film by its title. As far as Hallmark films go, 'Hearts of Christmas' is somewhere around high middle. This opinion is from judging the film on its own terms without comparing it to anything else, so am not saying (never have, never will do) that it is on par with something else that has gotten the same rating that will make some scoff.

Is 'Hearts of Christmas' perfect? No. The structure of the film and what happens is very familiar territory for Hallmark so there is a seen it all before vibe throughout. Did find the ending a bit too rushed and too tidy, as well as easily telegraphed.

A lot of the dialogue early on is heavy on the cheese and corn factors and doesn't flow very naturally, so there were moments where there was admittedly some cringing into my seat.

However, 'Hearts of Christmas' at least looks nice and professional. Although the authenticity of the locations can be, and has been, questioned, the scenery still looks lovely and appropriately festive, complemented very nicely by the photography. The soundtrack is nostalgic and isn't as intrusive in tone or placement as most other Hallmark Christmas films, as that has been a common criticism from me and quite a number of others. The direction is accomodating while not going through the motions.

The dialogue is less than great early on but if one sticks with the film it does improve, it is tighter and less stilted and the cheese and sentiment isn't as much. The story is very predictable admittedly, but it still engaged me and was charming and heart-warming while not taking itself too seriously. The characters may be well worn cliches, but they came over to me as likeable enough and any negative character traits didn't come over as over the top like can be the case in Hallmark Christmas films. Emilie Ullerup and Kristoffer Polaha are very appealing leads, they look comfortable and don't overdo any habitual mannerisms. Their chemistry came over as genuine, took time to unfold and didn't come over as contrived. The supporting cast also do very well, with a sparkling Sharon Lawrence standing out and also giving the film's best performance.

Concluding, worth watching. 7/10.

This movie doesn't wait until the end to start the tears. There are so many moments. And how can you miss with babies. The story is about the NICU, the place that saves very premature babies who couldn't survive without it. And more than the NICU, it is about the people who make the NICU, especially Alice.

Through the movie, you see so many joys that are coming as the party approaches, so you can enjoy a few tears before the climax. And there are other sweet moments as parents experience the special joy of finally holding their baby, or taking him home.

In the middle of all this, we have the romance between Jenny and Matt building. As is often the case their story begins with a real rocky start. In fact with Jenny, it was pure hate. The two leads do a good job of connecting as we learn more about both of them. But there is one hurdle that has to be overcome.

The ending is spectacular. The surprises for Alice are not news to the viewer, but that doesn't mean that seeing all these Angels didn't bring tears. But there is one really huge and tearful surprise that I don't think we had any clue. It almost happened too fast to appreciate. The last big surprise after that, was hinted, so maybe you guessed it and even if you didn't - this is Hallmark - you knew something was coming.

Unless you are the Grinch tears will be rolling down your cheeks by the end of this film. The movie follows the story of the nurse manager of the NICU at the hospital being forced to retirement much to the dismay of other nurses and former patients. Nothing tugs at the heart strings like tiny humans and those that take care of them in their greatest hour. The reveal at the end and the romance that develops over the film is enough to warm the cockles of almost anyone's heart. This was a good one!