UPtv is getting in the holiday spirit with its upcoming Country Hearts sequel film Country Hearts Christmas, which sees the return of the Jameson family on November 19 at 7/6c. We at Survived The Shows had the incredible chance to chat with writer Jennifer Snow, who teased us a little about the movie Country Hearts Christmas and her work. Check out full interview below!
“Country Hearts Christmas” involves the conflict between career success and traditional family celebrations. How did you approach exploring the theme of balancing personal aspirations with family obligations?
JENNIFER SNOW: I love the family dynamic in Country Hearts – they are such a strong, close, supportive family and I think that’s what resonates most in these movies. And I think in all families there is often the conflict of balancing personal desires and goals and what is best for the family unit. Writing this one, I really wanted to emphasize the importance of having that support system in chasing a dream. No one can do it alone and having people you can rely on to be straight and honest with you, even if sometimes it’s not what you want to hear is really important.
Music is a significant element in the film. How did you incorporate the theme of Christmas music and its emotional impact on the characters, and what role does it play in the overall narrative?
JENNIFER SNOW: The music in Country Hearts Christmas is absolutely beautiful and Christmas music is always special in that it touches on the themes of hope, love, family and faith, so the music in this one really encompasses what the theme of movie is. The Smith-Jamesons are working on building their careers through music and an opportunity to showcase their talent to the world becomes available to them, but it means sacrificing part of their Christmas traditions, so it’s not an easy decision for them. So, the music is definitely central to the plot.
The family dynamics are central to the story. How did you develop the Jameson family’s relationships, and what themes did you want to explore regarding family bonds during the holiday season?
JENNIFER SNOW: The Jameson family is strongest when they rely on one another and come together to face challenges as a family. Bones’ character is such a strong influence over the family and he’s really the glue holding them all together as they are out chasing their individual dreams. I wanted the relationships to feel real. I wanted the characters to laugh and love and experience all the good times, but also argue and disagree and showcase that there is conflict even in the strongest of families. And the holiday season can be a stressful time when everyone comes together, so that added another layer to the plot. But ultimately, choosing their family and faith is what brings them all closer.
The characters face dilemmas in both personal and professional aspects of their lives. Can you elaborate on how you crafted these conflicts and the resolutions, aiming for a balance between realism and the uplifting spirit of Christmas?
JENNIFER SNOW: I really wanted to explore how choices can impact those around us and how challenging it can be to balance individual goals and what’s best for the family unit. I think the conflicts in Country Hearts Christmas are very real and I think they will resonate with viewers in an uplifting way as they get resolved through faith and the connection between the characters. Not everything always works out the way we thought or hoped for, but sometimes things work out the way we need them to.
The film imparts a message about the true spirit of Christmas. How did you ensure that this message was woven seamlessly into the narrative, and what do you hope viewers take away from the film in terms of holiday values?
JENNIFER SNOW: To me the true spirit of Christmas is just being present with the ones you love and this movie is all about that. Everyone in this movie just wants to find a way to be together for the holidays and it really stands out as the driving force in this plot. I hope viewers feel that strong family connection and feel that love that they have for one another. Christmas is a time for hope and love and this movie definitely delivers on both.
Keep following us for more news on Hallmark Channel, Lifetime and Great American Family Networks!
Desirèe
Please step by our Facebook page SurvivedtheShows, Instagram page @survivedtheshows and Twitter page @SurvivedShows to keep yourself updated!
