Slate Daily Feed Death, Sex & Money | The Chaste Sexiness and Fantasy of Hallmark Holiday Rom-Coms
Dec 23, 2025
In this engaging conversation, screenwriter Russell Hainline shares his journey from crafting thrillers to creating heartwarming holiday rom-coms. He discusses the allure of his breakout Netflix hit, 'Hot Frosty,' and the unique challenges of working within Hallmark’s constraints. Russell reveals the art of building chaste yet steamy romantic tension and explains why sincerity rather than irony is crucial for emotional resonance. With reflections on small-town charm and themes of aspiration, he captures what makes these films so beloved.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Comforting Fantasy Of Holiday Rom-Coms
- Russell Hainline describes Hallmark movies as deliberate fantasies that let viewers believe in a kinder world where good things happen to deserving people.
- These films provide comfort and escapism by delivering predictable, emotionally satisfying outcomes.
Leap To L.A. And Years Of Hustle
- Russell moved to L.A. after teaching and wrote screenplays while tutoring to support himself for over a decade.
- He and his then-girlfriend (now wife) drove to L.A. without visiting first and slowly built a career from that leap.
Write Within The Holiday Sandbox
- Tailor scripts to production realities: limit animals, children, and expensive locations to fit Hallmark budgets.
- Prioritize romance and simplify scope to increase your chance of getting a holiday rom-com made.