Some of my cherished movies include “Memento,” “Good Will Hunting,” and the “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy. This serves to emphasize the unexpected nature of my viewing choice when I tuned into “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story” on the Hallmark Channel. I don't seek any acclaim; it's a rather privileged problem - watching a movie as part of work duties (I'll refrain from bragging now). However, I must admit that I had low expectations for this Hallmark production. After all, don't most of these movies follow a similar, generic plot? A person finds love in their hometown during the holidays with a touch of romantic tension?

Notable Cast and the Story

The story follows the life of Alana Higman, a young adult who is an ardent Kansas City Chiefs superfan and works at her family's gift shop. Her family is determined to set her up with Derrick Taylor, a charismatic stranger who is the head of fan engagement with the Chiefs. Derrick is in search of a family to name as the “Fan of the Year” and happens to cross paths with Alana.This budding romance develops quickly, despite Alana's superfan status creating some awkward moments between them. The extended family truly brings the story to life. They start off as an overbearing presence but still add a lot of charm. Think of all the typical quirks and idiosyncrasies your extended family might have - that's the Higmans, awkward, embarrassing, and hilarious all at once.After Alana overcomes her reservations about finding love and the family steps back from their matchmaking efforts, she and Derrick embark on a charming courtship centered around the Chiefs. It's cheesy, but who doesn't need a dose of that underdeveloped and quick romance?However, their relationship faces a brutal falling out that almost breaks the bond they formed in less than 10 days. Will they reach the endzone of dating and enjoy a long stretch of marital bliss like the Chiefs' dynasty? You'll have to watch to find out.

Positives

This movie successfully combines two of my favorite things: sports and a Christmas story. While the plot isn't significantly different from other Hallmark movies, the sports element kept me engaged from beginning to end. It felt like a sports movie without being overly focused on that aspect. The themes of romance, fate, dedication, and love were excellent. You can never go wrong with these combinations.I also found the initial awkwardness caused by Alana's fandom very relatable. Subconsciously, I'm always worried that my intense Boston sports fandom might drive away potential partners. (But the right one won't be deterred, right?) The banter between Alana and Derrick, although not the most clever comedy ever written, had its own charm and was quite realistic.Shout out to Paul, the grandfather. He had a wonderful old man humor that was corny yet always funny. He was a gentle soul, and I would definitely want him as a relative.Also, Andy Reid telling Derrick and Alana to stop making out in the middle of Arrowhead Stadium might be the best moment of his coaching career.

Negatives

Usually, I can find something majorly wrong with a movie, but I couldn't this time. It's not perfect (no movie is, not even “The Lord of the Rings”), but when a movie does a good job of not messing up the major elements like plot, characters, and having a satisfying ending, it deserves credit.The one minor thing I could pick on is that the dialogue at times was quite cheesy, just a step above the “Star Wars” prequel movies. The plot isn't overly complex, but it's a Hallmark movie after all.

Conclusion

You can't expect a Hallmark movie to deliver a deeply insightful thematic message. When I watched this movie, I didn't have such expectations and therefore wasn't disappointed. Even with those managed expectations, I still left the movie feeling satisfied.It doesn't match the cinematic masterpieces I usually enjoy, but I'm glad I watched “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story.” I think you would be too if you gave it a chance.Score: 7/10.What did you think of the movie? Was it cheesy or well done? Let me know: john.simmons@outkick.com.