The Christmas Quest is a Hallmark holiday movie that takes viewers on a thrilling adventure to Iceland, a destination not commonly featured in the network's films. Released on December 1, 2024, the film brings a unique blend of mystery, romance, and action, setting it apart from traditional Hallmark movies.
Fans of Hallmark’s festive cheer can watch the TV movie on the Hallmark Channel.
Stefanie (Lacey Chabert), an archaeologist, and her ex-husband Chase (Kristoffer Polaha), an expert in ancient Norse languages, are dispatched to Iceland to locate the legendary treasure of the Yule Lads, Iceland's mischievous Santa Claus-like figures.
The film was filmed in Iceland, which provided the film with authentic locales and picturesque landscapes that contributed to the story's enchanting ambiance.
One of the most significant components of The Christmas Quest's immersive experience is its filming locations. Although numerous Hallmark films are set in Canadian cities such as Vancouver and Toronto, the movie distinguishes itself by filming in Iceland.
The production highlights Iceland's distinctive natural features, including waterfalls, lava caves, and glaciers. The narrative is enhanced by the genuine nature of Iceland's landscapes.
All filming locations of The Christmas Quest
Reykjavik: Skólavörðustígur Street
The streets of Reykjavik, Iceland’s capital, were used for several key scenes in The Christmas Quest. Particularly, the famous Skólavörðustígur Street became the backdrop for the film’s street scenes. Renowned for its vibrant architecture, cobblestone walkways, and laid-back vibe, the neighborhood really felt Icelandic for the film.
Iceland’s Golden Circle and natural wonders
A popular tourist route that includes stunning natural landmarks, Iceland's Golden Circle is one of the most iconic filming locations in The Christmas Quest. The Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area, and the Þingvellir National Park are all traversed by this path. The film depicts the harsh, otherworldly environment in which the characters travel by utilizing these sites.
Glacier walking and lava caves
To add an extra layer of authenticity, the production team took to Iceland’s glaciers for key action scenes in the movie. The cast had to brave the cold while filming in difficult conditions, including glacier walking.
Although the cold walk was no easy task, it provided amazing views of the glaciers and their great, immaculate beauty. Lava caves also became a significant filming site where the characters confronted risks and difficulties.
Read More: Christmas Under the Lights: Full list of cast in the movie
Waterfalls and geothermal pools
The majestic waterfalls of Iceland are also prominently featured in the movie. The natural wonders, such as the Gullfoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, provided visually striking backdrops for several pivotal scenes.
The film’s team also made use of Iceland’s geothermal pools, which are a well-known feature of the country’s landscape. These steaming, hot spring waters added a mystical element to the movie.
The plot of the TV movie
The plot centers around the personal and professional journey of Stefanie and Chase. They are both tasked with finding the Yule Lad treasure, hidden in Iceland. The treasure is said to hold significant value, connected to the ancient Norse myth of mischievous Santa-like figures.
As Stefanie and Chase embark on their quest, they are forced to confront their past relationship, and the high-stakes journey becomes an emotional journey as well. The quest for the treasure brings them closer together, rekindling old feelings as they uncover the secrets of the Yule Lads.
Also Read: The Christmas Quest on Hallmark- Full list of cast
Directed by Dustin Rikert, who is known for projects like Mystic Christmas and A Biltmore Christmas, The Christmas Quest brings a fresh twist to the Hallmark holiday movie formula. Stay tuned for more news and updates on this film and similar projects during the Christmas season.