Hallmark movies are iconic. It marks the start of fall with the cheesy rom-com with abnormal amounts of coffee and leaves on the ground to the start of the holiday season with the city girl finding herself in a charming village in the middle of nowhere. But why are Hallmark movies so repetitive, predictable yet charming and nostalgic?

According to The Psychology behind Hallmark Movies, it states, “By taking us through a world where everything feels familiar, it gives the opportunity to escape from outside stressors.” Especially during the holiday season where there is so much stress in the air, Hallmark movies are a great way to escape all of that. 

Also there are real chemicals that get released when you watch a comforting and positive movie. The Psychology behind Hallmark Movies states, “There is also an oxytocin release associated with the feelings of warmth, connection, and love portrayed in these films.”

But even better, Hallmark movies have shown to improve seasonal and holiday depression. Her Magazine states, “Those with seasonal depression, for example, have worsening symptoms that begin in the fall and worsen into the winter. The use of narration, music, and visuals in the films create high intensity of positive emotions. Although watching Hallmark movies is not a replacement for mental health care and treatment, they can still be used to raise moods during periods of high stress.”

But also the setting helps bring this mood into these movies. The small town, community central, welcoming, charming and most importantly snowy environments help create this sense of warmth and comfort.

So even though Hallmark movies are cheesy and cringey, they are also a great way to celebrate and have a nostalgic kick to the holiday season.