Hallmark has carved out a legendary reputation for its endless array of Christmas films, turning sleigh bells, twinkling lights, and cozy small towns into a seasonal spectacle. These movies are often steeped in sugary charm, offering viewers a predictable, comforting escape into holiday cheer.

We’ve diligently studied each of this year’s offerings from the major streamers, and this crop really has it all: mystery Santas, precocious kids, grand larceny, ski-slope bullies, chaste smooches, sc...