Julie Sherman Wolfe, a Jewish screenwriter, has made a significant mark with her Christmas and Hanukkah movies for Hallmark. Her diverse works range from Holiday Touchdown to Hanukkah on the Rocks. In this article, we explore her creative process and the impact of her films.

Uncover the Jewish Connection in Hallmark Holiday Movies

Christmas Movies: A Tale of Romance and Tradition

Julie Sherman Wolfe, a former standup comedian, has penned 12 Christmas movies for Hallmark in the past decade. Her 2024 film, Holiday Touchdown, is loosely inspired by Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, bringing a unique twist to the holiday genre. "The magic, the romance of the Taylor Swift and Kelce union really got people in that romance mood, and romance plus football, right?" she shared with The Today Show. These movies not only showcase her talent but also capture the essence of Christmas with their heartwarming stories.Another aspect of her Christmas movies is the setting. Many take place in quaint New England towns, adding to the charm. For example, her 2021 flick, Taking a Shot at Love, is set in such a town. The blue and white lights outside her home during the holiday season further enhance the festive atmosphere.

Hanukkah in the Spotlight: A Cultural Dive

In recent years, Hallmark has expanded into Hanukkah fare, and two of these films were written by Sherman Wolfe. Hanukkah on Rye and Hanukkah on the Rocks not only feature her unique storytelling but also bring a Jewish perspective to the screen. A character named Evi Shekhman, a friend from the Jewish Federation, makes a cameo in Hanukkah on the Rocks, adding a personal touch.Sherman Wolfe believes that these movies teach non-Jewish Hallmark fans about the symbolism of Hanukkah. "It's showing people who may not know our culture the wonderful things about it. Because right now, there is so much negativity out there." Her son, Connor, who experienced antisemitism at school, launched a Jewish cultural club to share his religion. Sherman Wolfe is proud of his efforts.

Personal Insights and Experiences

Sherman Wolfe likes to joke that her favorite Jewish holiday is Tu B’shvat, but Hallmark has yet to make a movie about it. She is also fond of mirth and merriment and a good old-fashion romantic comedy. She met her husband, Greg, on JDate and they moved to a New England town that resembles a Christmas movie setting. Greg is a holiday-themed writer who wrote a children's book, Shmelf the Hanukkah Elf.During the pandemic in 2020, Sherman Wolfe had an interesting experience with a Christmas tree. She blamed it on being cooped up all year and later removed it. Her resume is like the inventory of a Blockbuster at the North Pole, with numerous holiday movies to her name.Sherman Wolfe is now invited to Hallmark events, where she sits on panels, writes skits, and participates in various activities. She is actively involved in the Hallmark holiday community.With her diverse works and personal experiences, Julie Sherman Wolfe has become an important figure in Jewish holiday cinema. Her films not only entertain but also educate and bring people together.