BJ Britt and Tamara Mowry-Housley continue their successful partnership with Hallmark in “Tidings for the Season”, a film that proudly showcases its heartfelt message. Directed by Linda-Lisa Hayter and written by Joey Elkins and Blake Silver, this movie focuses more on small acts of kindness rather than grand gestures—reminding us of the true spirit of holiday films.
Britt stars as Adam Kade, a polished anchor at a local news station accustomed to reporting headlines that sting more than they comfort. Enter Robbie (Elijah-Justus Lewis), a ten-year-old viewer who changes everything with a simple question: “Why can’t you ever report something good?” This innocent challenge prompts Adam to reevaluate not only his career but also its deeper purpose.
This introspection leads him to Robbie’s mother, Lucy (Tamara Mowry-Housley), a single parent balancing work, motherhood, and the struggle to keep everything organized. Mowry-Housley brings her trademark warmth and quiet strength to the role, grounding each scene with sincerity. When Adam and Lucy first meet, there isn’t an immediate spark—it simmers instead. Their connection develops from mutual respect into something tender, making their romance feel like a genuine reward rather than a foregone conclusion.
Director Linda-Lisa Hayter maintains a breezy yet thoughtful pace, allowing emotional moments to resonate. There’s a lovely theme of finding hope in everyday stories as Adam starts highlighting community heroes rather than focusing solely on crises. The film adeptly balances sweetness with a sense of purpose, illustrating that optimism isn’t naïve but rather essential.
The supporting cast, especially young Elijah-Justus Lewis, adds depth and humor without coming across as overly precocious. When Britt shares scenes with him, the chemistry feels naturally heartfelt—a reminder of how mentorship, compassion, and storytelling can beautifully intertwine.
“Tidings for the Season” doesn’t reinvent the Christmas movie formula, but it certainly enhances it. It’s the kind of feel-good film that earns its sentiment, affirming that joy—much like good journalism—still matters.
Final Grade: B
“Tidings for the Season” Premieres: Sunday, November 16 at 8:00 p.m. on Hallmark.
Earlier this week, fans were excited when the trailer for Netflix’s upcoming sequel series, “A Different World”, was released. In response, I thought it would be fitting to pay tribute to Jasmine Guy’s self-titled album from 1990 for this week’s Second Listen Sunday.
Some jobs in music are difficult, but being asked to replace Smokey Robinson is another. When Robinson stepped away from The Miracles in the early seventies, Billy Griffin inherited a microphone attached to one of Motown’s most recognizable voices.
When I reflect on the summer of 1998, I was preparing for my junior year, while R&B seemed to be at a crossroads. Brandy and Monica were dominating the youth market with their blockbuster sophomore albums, while established male singers like Luther Vandross and Gerald Levert were comfortably settling into Urban AC.