By Rick Gables
OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network will debut Song & Story: Amazing Grace, a new original film, on Tuesday, Dec. 21, at 9 p.m. ET/PT. The film stars Bresha Webb, Getenesh Berhe and Karen Clark Sheard. This is the first in a series of a new Song & Story collection of movies inspired by seminal songs known as anthems for womanhood. Iconic songs and lyrics will lay the creative foundation for these original movies, filled with uplifting stories of women on their spiritual journeys to emotional triumph. Song & Story: Amazing Grace shines a light on the themes of challenge and triumph that ring true in the hymn. The story centers on Tanner, portrayed by Webb, a talented artist battling tremendous obstacles who forms an unlikely friendship with Iris, portrayed by Berhe, an optimistic store owner who guides Tanner towards the forgiveness of a painful past to unlock the strength she holds within herself. The two women will find out that their paths are intertwined, and a surprising connection is revealed.
Hallmark Channel continues its annual Countdown to Christmas event with the premiere of Sister Swap: Christmas in the City on Sunday, Dec. 12, at 8 p.m. ET/PT. The movie stars Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Ashley Williams, Keith Robinson and Kevin Nealon. Meg Swift comes to Salt Lake City from her hometown in Hazelwood to see her sister Jennifer, who runs a local restaurant in town. When Jennifer and her teenage son, Simon, return to their Hazelwood home, Meg offers to help Jennifer’s staff prepare for a competition among local restaurants. As effusive Meg works alongside the more reserved Joe, the restaurant’s manager, the two find their differences are what make them a great team. Swapping cities with her sister leads Meg to her next chapter, which just might bring her an unexpected romance.
NBC will air its new workplace comedy, American Auto, on Monday, Dec. 13, at 10 p.m. ET/PT, taking the wheels off the automobile industry, while driving up the laughs. Set in Detroit, the corporate executives of Payne Motors are at a crossroads: adapt to the changing times or be sent to the junkyard. The new CEO, appears to have a complete lack of knowledge about cars. Luckily, her team has some of the best minds in the business. The cast includes Ana Gasteyer, Jon Barinholtz, Harriet Dyer, Humphrey Ker, Michael B. Washington, Tye White and X Mayo.