Introduction
If you're a fan of period drama series with a touch of romance, wholesome values, and life lessons, "Love Comes Softly" might just be your next binge-watch. Here, we break down the sequence of viewing this cherished collection of movies, provide insightful tips on viewing, and discuss where and how to watch it seamlessly.
Overview of "Love Comes Softly" Series
Love Comes Softly is an award-winning series of made-for-television movies based on Janette Oke's book series of the same name. Set in the 19th century American West, the series starts with Marty Claridge, who is left alone in the wilderness after her husband's untimely death, where she meets a lonely widower named Clark Davis. The story unfolds from there, exploring themes of loss, love, marriage, faith, and the power of community.
The Series Timeline:
- Love Comes Softly (2003)
- Love's Enduring Promise (2004)
- Love's Long Journey (2005)
- Love's Abiding Joy (2006)
- Love's Unending Legacy (2007)
- Love's Unfolding Dream (2007)
- Love Takes Wing (2009)
- Love Finds a Home (2009)
How to Watch "Love Comes Softly" Series in Order
Step 1: Set the Scene
- Begin by watching Love Comes Softly. This first installment sets the stage for the entire series, introducing the main characters, their struggles, and the beginning of a very unexpected romance.
<p class="pro-note">๐ฝ๏ธ Pro Tip: While not necessary, reading the book before watching the movie can add depth to your experience as the film captures the essence of Janette Oke's storytelling.</p>
Step 2: Embrace the Promise
- Next, watch Love's Enduring Promise. This movie expands on the characters' lives, showing how love endures through hardship, particularly focusing on Marty and Clark's daughter, Missie.
Step 3: Follow the Journey
- Move on to Love's Long Journey. Here, Missie and her new husband, Willie, embark on their own adventure, facing the perils of pioneer life, and strengthening their bond through adversity.
Step 4: Witness the Legacy
- Continue with Love's Abiding Joy, Love's Unending Legacy, Love's Unfolding Dream, Love Takes Wing, and Love Finds a Home. Each film in this sequence builds on the last, showcasing the journey of love, family, and faith through generations.
Important Notes:
- Each movie reflects not only the progression of characters but also the evolution of the landscape and community they live in.
- <p class="pro-note">๐ก Pro Tip: Watching with subtitles can help catch some of the softer-spoken dialogue and enrich the experience with accurate period language.</p>
Where to Watch "Love Comes Softly" Series
There are various platforms where fans can access these heart-warming films:
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Streaming Services:
- Hallmark Movies Now
- Amazon Prime Video
- Tubi TV
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Purchase Options:
- DVD/Blu-ray collections are available on Amazon or other retail stores.
- Individual or full series digital downloads from platforms like iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu.
Practical Viewing Tips:
- Create a cozy atmosphere: Set the stage by dimming the lights, getting some hot cocoa, and maybe even lighting a candle to add to the rustic, old-time feel of the series.
- Watch with Family or Friends: The series celebrates family values, making it a perfect opportunity for bonding over screen time.
- Discussion Post-Watch: Use these movies as a discussion starter on themes like love, loss, marriage, and what really matters in life.
Common Viewing Mistakes to Avoid
- Out of Order: Watching the films out of their intended order can confuse character arcs and story development.
- Skipping Installments: Each film provides critical development for characters. Missing one can affect your understanding of the storyline.
- Expecting Modern Romance: The series portrays love from a traditional, modest angle which might be at odds with contemporary views on romance.
<p class="pro-note">๐ฌ Pro Tip: If you find yourself particularly fond of a character or subplot, remember there might be Easter eggs or references in later films!</p>
Advanced Viewing Techniques
- Thematic Watching: Watch films by theme (family, love, faith) to get a different perspective on character growth.
- Character Focus: Focus on a particular character's journey across the series to gain a deeper appreciation of their development.
- Comparative Viewing: If you've read the books, watch the movies for adaptations, noting what was kept, changed, or omitted.
Summing Up
Embarking on the "Love Comes Softly" series is more than just watching movies; it's an immersion into a time of simplicity, love, and the enduring values of faith and family. Whether you're revisiting these classics or experiencing them for the first time, the emotional journey remains as moving as ever. From heart-wrenching beginnings to heartwarming endings, each film in the series promises not just entertainment but a lesson in life.
We encourage you to delve into these timeless tales, perhaps explore other related period dramas or books by Janette Oke, and perhaps share your experience with others.
<p class="pro-note">๐ Pro Tip: After finishing, consider exploring the sequel series, "Love Begins" and "Love's Christmas Journey", to keep the heartwarming journey going!</p>
<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Is there a set chronological order to watch the "Love Comes Softly" series?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, there is a specific chronological order in which to watch the "Love Comes Softly" series to follow the storyline accurately, starting with the original "Love Comes Softly" and ending with "Love Finds a Home".</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Are all the movies in the series connected?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, while some stories might focus on different characters, each film connects through the overarching themes and character developments that span across the series.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I watch "Love Comes Softly" series without having read the books?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Absolutely! The movies stand well on their own, providing a full narrative experience without the need for prior knowledge of the books.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What if I miss a movie in the series, will it spoil my viewing experience?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>While each movie has its own standalone plot, missing one can leave gaps in character development and story arcs. It's best to watch them in order to fully appreciate the series.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Where can I get DVDs of "Love Comes Softly" series?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>DVD collections are available on online marketplaces like Amazon, or you might find them in used DVD stores, or special sections in retail stores dedicated to Hallmark movies.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>