I Heard the Bells poster
PGPICK SELECTION22
Play Trailer
BIG FEELINGS
PG2022·1h 50m·Drama / Biography

I Heard the Bells.

A poet searches for hope in the sound of Christmas bells.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow enjoys a successful literary life before devastating loss leaves him unable to write. As the Civil War divides the country and brings further danger to his family, he struggles to reconcile suffering with his Christian faith. The drama follows the experiences that lead him toward the Christmas poem later known as I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day.

No published Tomatometer score yet. View on Rotten Tomatoes

Checked . About these scores

Why it’s a little special

A historical Christmas story about a familiar carol, with room for discussion of poetry, bereavement and hope during national conflict.

BEFORE YOU PRESS PLAY

Know the story.
Know your little people.

PG
Parental guidance suggested

US film rating

The official US PG rating cites thematic elements, frightening images, some violence and brief smoking. A fatal fire, grief and Civil War injuries may be upsetting. Christian faith and the search for meaning after tragedy are central, and the story is emotionally heavier than a typical holiday film.

Our notes are a starting point, not an age recommendation. G and PG films can still include intense moments. You know your family best.

BEHIND THE SCENES

The little details.

Directed by
Joshua Enck
Starring
Stephen Atherholt, Jonathan Blair, Rachel Day Hughes, Zach Meeker, Carl Anderson, Jared Frederick
Written by
Joshua Enck, Jeff Bender
Produced by
Joshua Enck
Release date
December 1, 2022
Runtime
110 minutes
Genre
Drama, Biography, History
Studio
Sight & Sound Films / Pinnacle Peak Pictures
Language
English
YOUR SOFA. YOUR CINEMA.

Where to watch.

A good story is one click away.

United States All viewing options on JustWatch (opens in a new tab)

Including rent & buy

With a subscription1

Checked via JustWatch. Availability and plans can change. Add-on channels require a separate subscription; some plans include ads.

Film facts: Apple TV US film listing · additional source . Checked 2026-11-07. Parent notes and recommendations by PG Pick. Artwork belongs to its respective studio.

A LITTLE PREVIEW

I Heard the Bells · Official trailer