Set against Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes, the Hallmark Christmas movie The Christmas Quest delivers an unforgettable treasure hunt adventure.
Directed by Dustin Rikert, the movie tells the story of Stefanie, an archaeologist, and her ex-husband Chase, as they race to discover a legendary artifact before it ends up in the wrong hands.
They rediscover the ties of love and shared experiences that formerly bound them along the journey.
Produced by Dustin Rikert Productions in collaboration with Hallmark Media and Crown Media, the movie premiered on Hallmark Channel (United States) and W Network (Canada).
Where was The Christmas Quest filmed?
The Christmas Quest was filmed entirely in Iceland, utilizing the country’s unique and ethereal landscapes. According to local press, filming for the movie began in early April 2024 and wrapped within the same month.
From the capital city of Reykjavík to the volcanic slopes of Hekla and the tumbling Haifoss waterfall, the movie highlights Iceland’s unmatched splendor.
Lead actor Kristoffer Polaha said the event was “a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” complimenting the amazing landscape, kind people, and rich cultural legacy.
Reykjavík Iceland
The film’s urban scenes were shot in the energetic capital of Iceland, Reykjavík.
Primary filming sites include Perlan, a natural history museum with the Ice Cave and Glacier Exhibition, and Hallgrimskirkja, the soaring church famed for its exquisite basalt-column design.
With spectacular backdrops of Icelandic architecture and snowscapes, filmmakers turned these locations into natural components of Stefanie and Chase’s trip.
Laugarás Iceland
Another important filming location turned out to be the quiet village of Laugarás.
Stefanie and Chase are shown in a moving image climbing the steps of the Skálholtsdómkirkja (Skálholt Cathedral) beneath the aurora borealis.
With its complex stained-glass windows and historical relevance, the cathedral wonderfully balances the ideas of love and discovery found in the film.
Haifoss Waterfall from the Hekla Volcano
As Stefanie and Chase negotiate the ground close to the active Hekla volcano and Haifoss waterfall, Iceland’s natural beauties front stage.
These amazing settings give the treasure search grandeur and intrigue. The pair walking up an ice glacier for a key shot highlights both the performers’ dedication and the tough beauty of Iceland’s surroundings in a remarkable sequence.
Behind-the-scenes
Filming in Iceland offered particular difficulties for the actors and crew, particularly with regard to the cold.
To fight the cold, lead actress Lacey Chabert discussed her experience using many layers—including a heated vest. She lightheartedly related falling on ice while vlogging with Polaha, which gave the rigorous session some fun.
The group enjoyed the voyage despite the challenges; Chabert described it as “an unforgettable journey” and praised the friendship on site.
The Christmas Quest Cast
Lacey Chabert as Stefanie and Kristoffer Polaha as Chase star in the main roles, along with other stars.
Lacey Chabert as Stefanie
Called the “Queen of Christmas,” Chabert’s part in The Christmas Quest marks her fifteenth Hallmark film. Fans might know her from other holiday classics, The Wedding Veil series, and Mean Girls.
She gives the character of Stefanie, an archaeologist motivated by adventure and love in this movie her trademark charm and emotional depth.
Kristoffer Polaha as Chase
Stefanie’s ex-husband and treasure-hunting ally Chase is portrayed by Kristoffer Polaha. Hallmark viewers have come to know him from his past performances in A Biltmore Christmas and Wonder Woman 1984.
His on-screen chemistry with Chabert excels in The Christmas Quest, giving their shared path depths of romance and comedy.
Svandis Dora Einarsdottir, Jóel Saemundsson, Þór Tulinius, and Jóhann Sigurðarson—who give the supporting players nuance and authenticity—are among the other cast members.
What is the plot of The Christmas Quest?
Stefanie and Chase are pushed together on a quest to find an ancient item hidden in the frozen environment of Iceland. As they negotiate the difficulties presented by the frozen terrain and other treasure searchers, they face unresolved emotions from their former marriage. Stefanie and Chase rekindle their bond through times of danger and calm introspection, so demonstrating that love can survive even the toughest of winters.
How to Watch The Christmas Quest?
The Christmas Quest premiered on Dec 1 at 8/7c on Hallmark Channel in the United States and W Network in Canada. Moreover, if you’re a Peacock subscriber, you can watch the movie for free upto 72 hours of its original premiere on Hallmark in the US.
If you’ve missed the premiere on the Hallmark Channel, you can also watch the movie on the following showtimes:
- Dec 2 at 6/5c
- Dec 7 at 10/9c
- Dec 10 at 10/9c
- Dec 15 at 4/3c
- Dec 20 at 10:10/9:10c
- Dec 24 at 8/7c
- Dec 30 at 12/11c
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