The Preserving Instinctual Bias and Hallmark Movies

Welcome to another episode in the Enneagram in a Movie series! Join hosts TJ Dawe and Mario Sikora as they explore an unexpected cinematic world—Hallmark movies! You might know Hallmark for their heartwarming holiday stories and idyllic small-town settings, but today, TJ and Mario look deeper to uncover how these films reflect the "preserving instinctual bias" of the ATA Enneagram In this episode, they discuss:

• The Comfort of Familiarity: Hallmark movies offer a sense of stability, safety, and nostalgia through recurring plots, warm community vibes, and predictable romance.

• The Preserving Instinctual Bias: These films embody a desire for consistency, coziness, and rootedness, a quality often overlooked in Hollywood. Mario explains how the "preserving bias" is all about feeling nurtured, secure, and connected to familiar surroundings.

• Why Hallmark is Unique: Unlike the Hollywood norm, where ambition or conflict drives the story, Hallmark movies promote wholesome, slow-paced life values—no big-city hustle or gritty realism here. It’s all about coming home, reconnecting, and finding happiness in the simple things.

• Hallmark's Production Style: Learn how Hallmark’s “factory-style” production—reusing actors, sets, and plot formulas—contributes to its comforting, reliable feel.

Whether you're a fan of Hallmark or a curious critic, this episode offers a fresh look at what makes these movies resonate with millions. Ideal for viewers interested in psychology, film tropes, or simply seeking a cozy escape!