Hallmark’s New Christmas Movie is a Tearful Tribute to Forced Family Fun

Hallmark Channel is set to premiere a heartfelt holiday film this November. “A Keller Christmas Vacation” stars Jonathan Bennett and Brandon Routh. The movie follows a dysfunctional family on a European river cruise. It is also a personal tribute from its star.

Jonathan Bennett executive-produced and stars in the new comedy. He revealed the story is inspired by his late father’s tradition. His dad created annual “forced family fun” trips to bring everyone together.

A Keller Christmas Vacation Honors a Father’s Legacy

The film features Bennett, Brandon Routh, and Eden Sher as siblings. They reluctantly join their parents for a holiday riverboat cruise. The premise mirrors Bennett’s own childhood experiences.

His father, Dr. David Bennett, organized yearly houseboat trips. These vacations were designed to foster family bonding. Bennett told EntertainmentNow they were a form of “forced family fun.”

He said his dad knew they had to talk on the boat. There was simply nowhere else to go. This concept became the central theme of the Hallmark movie.

Filming Brought Powerful Personal Emotions to the Surface

Bennett’s father passed away from brain cancer in 2014. Creating this movie provided a sense of closure for the actor. He described the filming process as emotionally powerful.

A key moment happened when Brandon Routh delivered a specific line. Routh’s character explains the “forced family fun” concept. Bennett said hearing his father’s exact words was incredibly touching.

It felt like a direct message to his dad. Bennett confirmed the entire project is a tribute to his father’s memory. It carries forward a beloved family saying.

The Movie Balances Family Humor with Heartfelt Moments

Bennett hopes audiences see their own families in the story. He acknowledges many come from dysfunctional backgrounds. Holidays often amplify that dynamic.

The film leans into the humor of family friction. He believes bonding often comes through those challenging moments. The setting adds to the festive charm.

He compares the Kellers to the classic Griswold family. Early viewers reported both laughing and crying. The movie delivers Hallmark heart with genuine hilarity.

The new film promises a perfect holiday recipe. “A Keller Christmas Vacation” blends beautiful Christmas markets with relatable family chaos. It stands as a touching and hilarious new Hallmark Christmas movie tribute.

Thought you’d like to know

When does “A Keller Christmas Vacation” premiere?

The movie premieres on Hallmark Channel on November 9, 2025. It will air at 8 p.m. Eastern Time. It streams on Hallmark+ the next day.

Who stars in the Hallmark Christmas movie?

Jonathan Bennett, Brandon Routh, and Eden Sher play the main siblings. Bennett also served as an executive producer. The cast brings the dysfunctional family to life.

What is the movie’s plot?

A family reluctantly takes a European Christmas river cruise together. The trip is their parents’ idea of “forced family fun.” The journey leads to bonding and holiday chaos.

Is the story based on real life?

Yes, Jonathan Bennett based it on his father’s annual traditions. His dad insisted on houseboat trips to connect the family. The film is a direct tribute to him.

Where was the movie filmed?

The production filmed scenes in European locations. It features famous Christmas markets along the Danube River. The setting provides a beautiful holiday backdrop.

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