Hallmark's Bears Christmas movie captures fan resilience, with one miss
A Hallmark Christmas film centered on a Chicago Bears fan depicts the hope and resilience that define the team's fanbase. The story follows a reporter who meets a firefighter while profiling his grandmother, a longtime Bears season-ticket holder approaching her 500th game. The review says the movie largely succeeds in portraying Bears fandom, though it has one notable flaw.
Hallmark’s third NFL-themed holiday film shifts to Chicago after earlier installments tied to Kansas City and Buffalo. In “Holiday Touchdown: A Bears Love Story,” a visiting journalist, Avery, is assigned by the Chicago Herald to profile Darlene, a season-ticket holder nearing her 500th Bears game. Darlene introduces Avery to her grandson Matt, a Chicago firefighter, and nudges them together. The movie premiered Saturday on Hallmark and will air repeatedly during the season.
The review credits the film with a B+ for its Bears fandom portrayal. It highlights Darlene’s explanation that supporting the team teaches optimism and perseverance, plus Chicago-specific touches: a Jeppson’s Malört shot, Donny Hathaway’s “This Christmas,” Marilu Henner’s Chicago accent, and Jennifer Hudson’s holiday song.
The film may resonate with Bears supporters and Hallmark viewers by validating long-term loyalty through shared rituals and family memories. It could introduce broader audiences to Chicago traditions like Malört and local artists, potentially strengthening civic pride. For NFL and Hallmark, cross-promotion may draw football fans into holiday romance and vice versa. Its portrayal could shape how outsiders view Chicago fandom, though as entertainment its social effect is likely modest.