Love's Portrait - Hallmark Movie Review

It seems some faces are just meant to be painted, photographed and filmed.  That is certainly true for the Love's Portrait star, Aubrey Reynolds.  

In the movie, Reynolds portrays a young woman who is still grieving the death of her husband, even though it has been 3 years since he died in a car accident.  Hallmark picked the right actress for this movie.  She comes across as being very gentle, kind and considerate, as well as content, but some of her facial expressions convey sorrow.  

She is truly the portrait of a sweet soul with an aching heart.

In the first few minutes of the movie, you are introduced to Lily Young (Aubrey Reynolds) and her co-workers who adore her.  We find out about Lily's life, what she does and does not want now or in her future.  The movie moves forward quickly when a stunning portrait arrives at the museum where she works and plans are quickly made for travel. 

 

Love's Portrait Movie Synopsis

Love's Portrait

Lily's boss, Michelle, is determined to help Lily find someone to date.  She has even gone so far as to add a profile to a dating app on Lily's behalf.  However, Lily isn't ready to start dating again and refuses to play along.  She is happy with her job as the museum curator and is content to focus on that.

When a new portrait arrives at the museum, everyone is immediately interested in it because it appears to be a portrait of Lily.  However, there is no packing slip in the box and the painting is not signed.  Thus, they all want to find out the identity of the artist.  Michelle is certain the artist is Lily's destiny and she is determined to find out the origin of the painting.  She sends her assistant to the deliveryman's home and he finds the packing slip in his truck. 

It turns out that the painting was shipped from a small town in Ireland.  Before Lily even has time to process it all, Michelle hands her a ticket to Ireland and tells her she must go!  Somewhat reluctantly, Lily agrees because she really is intrigued by the painting and would like to solve the mystery of the artist's identity, plus why he painted her.

And, this is where the fun begins .......

 

This really is a delightful movie.  All of the people in Ireland are awesome and fun, starting with the postmistress who clearly has her own interest in the painting as well as Lily's mission to find the artist.

Be sure to check this movie out on a day when you are seeking a bit of romance and mystery together.

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A Senior Love Story: Movie Review of The Leisure Seeker

The Storyline of The Leisure Seeker

The Leisure Seeker (2017) is a heartfelt journey that captures the essence of love and adventure in the twilight years. 

The film follows the story of Ella and John Spencer, a married couple who decide to take one last road trip in their vintage RV, aptly named "The Leisure Seeker." 

Their journey takes them from Boston to Key West as they seek out Ernest Hemingway's home, fulfilling a long-held dream. 

Along the way, the couple navigates the complexities of aging, illness, and the bittersweet memories of their shared past. 

The movie is filled with charm and heart. It beautifully portrays the deep bond between Ella and John and showcases the joy and sorrow of a long-lasting relationship. 

While the film is often light-hearted, it doesn't shy away from the realities of growing old, making it both a touching and thought-provoking experience.

The Talented Cast

The cast of The Leisure Seeker is nothing short of spectacular, with Donald Sutherland and Helen Mirren delivering standout performances as John and Ella Spencer. 

Sutherland's portrayal of John, a retired English professor suffering from memory loss, is both tender and poignant. He captures the confusion and frustration of his condition while also showing the deep love he still holds for his wife. 

On the other hand, Helen Mirren brings warmth and resilience to Ella's character. She is the driving force behind their journey, determined to create one last adventure despite their challenges. 

Her performance is a delicate balance of strength and vulnerability, making Ella a character who is both relatable and inspiring. The chemistry between Sutherland and Mirren is undeniable, and they truly bring the Spencers' love story to life on screen.

Movie Accolades

The Leisure Seeker had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in 2017.

The film was also featured at several other international film festivals, including the Venice Film Festival. 

The Leisure Seeker received a warm reception upon its release, with particular praise for the performances of its two leads. Helen Mirren's outstanding performance earned her Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy nomination at the Golden Globe Awards. 

The film was also recognized for its screenplay and direction, which perfectly balanced humor and drama. 

While it may not have swept the awards circuit, the accolades it did receive were well-deserved. They highlighted the film's ability to touch audiences with its heartfelt story and memorable characters. The film's recognition is a testament to the strength of its narrative and the power of its performances.

Why I Loved This Movie

What I loved most about The Leisure Seeker is its portrayal of pure heart and the enduring love of a long-term relationship. 

The film beautifully captures the complexities of love, especially when faced with the challenges of aging and illness. 

Watching Ella and John navigate their journey together, I couldn't help but feel deeply for this couple who, even in their senior years, were determined to live out their dream, no matter what life threw their way. 

Their story reminds us of the power of love and commitment and the importance of cherishing every moment with those we hold dear. 

This movie made me reflect on the beauty of enduring love and the adventures that still await us, regardless of age or circumstance.

Take a Look at The Trailer

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

You Can Watch The Leisure Seeker on Prime, Where Available

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The Convenient Groom - Hallmark Movie Review

Calling all Romantic Hallmark Movie Lovers!  This is a delightfully sweet and fun movie to watch.  

To be honest, I didn't expect much based on the description of this movie so I was very surprised to find a movie I really liked a lot.  I chose it solely because David Sutcliffe was one of the main actors.  I was not previously familiar with his co-star, Vanessa Marcil, but turns out, I really like her too.  She has a very easy smile, a lovely face and is a believable actress.  They make a very cute couple!

This movie was a very nice break for me.  I had stepped away from the romance movie genre this summer and started watching more of the mystery series movies.  I still had the final mystery episode in my mystery series to watch, but I was not in the mood for another murder today.  Thus, I sought out a pleasant romance.  

 

The Convenient Groom Synopsis

The Convenient Groom

Kate Lawrence, Ph.D is a popular dating advice video blogger with a book deal just around the corner.  The movie starts with her offering tips on how to spot the red flags in a relationship on her show, "Just ... No".  I laughed out loud when I heard her describe a "high maintenance" man.  

Any movie that can make me laugh in the first two minutes is almost guaranteed to be a winner!

Following her own advice, Kate has found her own perfect fiance, soon to be husband.  For those of us watching, we can easily spot the "red flags" in her relationship, but she naively chooses to ignore them because she wants a relationship without conflict.  No surprise when her fiance breaks up with her, leaving her to explain to her audience what just happened to her big announcement.  She is about to "air all" when an old friend steps in to save her day, and her job, by claiming to be her fiance.  She, and her entire crew, are surprised, but play along with him during the filming to keep from having a totally disastrous show.

Lucas Wright feels really bad for Kate when he overhears her fiance breaking off their engagement, admitting that he is seeing someone else.  When she slips away to gather her thoughts before continuing the filming, Lucas takes that moment to talk to her.  Because he really wants to help, he ends up stepping out during the filming and announcing that he is Kate's fiance.  Of course, the crowd goes wild!

Kate and Lucas are engaged, at least as far as everyone else is concerned.  The announcement day has been saved, but now what?  Her book deal is still up in the air and vendors are lining up to be chosen for their wedding day in a few months. Sort of, jumping from the frying pan into the fire scenario.

Okay, so you probably have it all figured out, but it is still a delightfully fun mess to watch! 

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Why I Love the Movie "Letters to Juliet" - A Five Star Review

Discovering "Letters to Juliet"

Released in 2010, Letters to Juliet is a romantic drama that captures viewers' hearts with its blend of love, adventure, and nostalgia. 

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Verona, Italy, the movie follows the journey of Sophie, an aspiring writer who stumbles upon a 50-year-old letter addressed to Juliet Capulet. 

This letter, written by a woman named Claire, sparks a quest for a long-lost love that has been dormant for decades.

The Cast: A Talented Ensemble

The movie features an ensemble cast that brings the story to life with charm and authenticity. 

Amanda Seyfried stars as Sophie, the inquisitive and hopeful lead who embarks on a journey of discovery. 

The legendary Vanessa Redgrave joins her as Claire, whose poignant portrayal of a woman seeking closure resonates deeply with audiences.

Christopher Egan plays Charlie, Claire's skeptical yet protective grandson and Gael García Bernal rounds out the cast as Victor, Sophie's fiancé, whose culinary dreams often take precedence over their relationship.

A Beautiful Setting and a Timeless Premise

One of the most enchanting aspects of Letters to Juliet is its setting. 

Filmed in the picturesque countryside of Italy, the movie transports viewers to a world where romance feels tangible. 

The story's connection to the legendary tale of Romeo and Juliet adds another layer of depth as it explores the timeless themes of love, fate, and second chances.

The Perfect Soundtrack

Taylor Swift's mega-popular hit song "Love Story is the theme song for the film's trailer, adding to the movie's romantic atmosphere. 

The song's lyrics and melody perfectly capture the essence of the story, making it an ideal choice to set the tone for what unfolds on screen.

Why I Enjoyed the Movie Letters to Juliet

I enjoyed the movie Letters to Juliet for several reasons. 

The cast, led by Amanda Seyfried and Vanessa Redgrave, delivered heartfelt and relatable performances. 

The gorgeous setting of the Italian countryside added a sense of magic to the story, making it feel like a true escape. 

The romantic premise, inspired by the tale of Romeo and Juliet, was captivating and emotional. 

Perhaps most importantly, the film's exploration of lost love and the idea of second chances struck a chord, especially with older viewers who may have experienced similar feelings in their own lives. 

All these elements combined create a movie that is enjoyable and reflective.

I Have My Own Story of Lost Summer Love

Perhaps I relate to this movie mostly because I have my own personal Romeo and Juliet story. 

In 1978, when backpacking through Europe for two months, I experienced unforgettable summer love that is still frozen in time to this day. I wrote about it here if you're curious. 

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Remember Sunday (2013) Movie Review

Most often, I watch movies in the background while I work.  I guess you could say, they keep me company.  However, Remember Sunday is not a background movie.  This is one you really want to be invested in.  It is well worth watching.

The actors are adorable and kind.  You pull for them throughout the movie because you really want them to succeed.  They both possess a positive attitude and strong determination as they face difficult times and situations.

Since I have never known anyone who survived an aneurysm, I wasn't sure how accurate the movie's presentation of it was until I did a bit of research.  I found that, in some causes, the memory loss after an aneurysm was accurately depicted in the movie.  This knowledge made me like the movie even more.  Not only was I captivated by the story, but I learned something.

I will warn you, the movie is not all sunshine and flowers.  As you can imagine, not being able to remember someone, conversations, activities, etc. would make you, and everyone that is a constant in your life, struggle for consistency or the bond of a continuous relationship.  Shared experiences are the foundation of almost any relationship, even the bad ones.  Without those memories, it would be nearly impossible to have a bound.

Synopsis of Remember Sunday

Remember Sunday

Gus Gillenwater (Zachary Levi) wakes up every morning to post-it notes!  Yes, that is correct.  He has post-it notes all over his home and a file marked "Read Me Every Morning".  The notes and file tell him where he is and what he is supposed to remember.  After he reads through the file, he calls his sister each morning and she tells him, again, why he is living in New Orleans and answers any questions he has.  He works at a jewelry shop owned by old friends.   

Gus's notes, file, and daily routine are extremely important because Gus has no short-term memory due to an aneurysm.  

He is kind, even tempered, and happy, but he is living day to day without the memories of most of his adult life.  He tries to "fill in the gaps" by recording the things he would like to remember, like appointments, things he needs to do, and whatever he thinks is important in his day.  He is surrounded by friends and neighbors who try to daily help him.

Gus meets his life-long friend, Jerry, for breakfast each morning.  On the day when we first meet Gus, he will be meeting Jerry at a new restaurant, Addie Mae's, for breakfast.  He is immediately attracted to his waitress, Molly.  Sadly, he will not remember her tomorrow.

____

Molly Branford (Alexis Bledel) is a waitress at Addie Mae's Restaurant.  She is living with her best friend since she can't afford an apartment on her own.  She is also taking a business class.  She hopes to start her own flower shop when she receives the inheritance that is currently being held up by lawyers.

Molly is adorable, sweet, and well liked although frequently underappreciated by the men she dates.

When she meets Gus, of course she likes him, but she can't understand why he would stand her up for their date. 

Fortunately for both of them, Jerry knew about the date.  When he calls to see how things are going, he finds out Gus is at home, totally oblivious to the fact that he is supposed to be out on his first date with Molly.

___

After the initial mix-up, Molly and Gus do start dating, but their dating life is fraught with misunderstandings, difficulties and distress until Molly learns more about Gus's aneurysm and why he can't remember.  

Gus, himself, questions "is it possible to fall in love with someone every single day?"

 

 

 

Remember Sunday on Prime Video

Hallmark Hall of Fame Crown Collection 2 * Christmas with Holly, The Makeover, Remember Sunday DVD

Remember Sunday on DVD

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From Chicago With Love (2023) aka Lease on Love Movie Review

I had previously skipped over From Chicago With Love starring Rebecca Liddiard & Dan Jeannotte simply because the title did not pull me in.  It sounded like a byline for a radio station.  

In my opinion, the movie cover image didn't match the title, but it also didn't give any obvious clue about the plot of the movie, other than it features a cute couple.  I assumed they were co-workers, perhaps both anchors on a radio show.  

None of those things are true!

It turns out, this movie was originally released as "Lease on Love" in 2022.  I'm not sure I would have found that title any more appealing in a search. 

Title changes can be very confusing.  This isn't the first time I have seen a title change on a movie.  I recently reviewed "Friend Request" aka "Chance at Romance".  

Some title changes make sense.  For instance, The Avengers in the US was renamed Avengers Assemble in the UK to avoid confusing it with a TV series that carried the same name.  Others title names are changed due to copyrights. They may also change when the movie is released on DVD.  Regardless of the reason, I would personally prefer titles not being changed after they have been released.  Of course, I would understand why a title would change from trailer time to release time.

Either way, this was a great romantic movie that I would recommend for light entertainment.  Just be sure to search for both names along with the actors names.

From Chicago With Love Synopsis

From Chicago with Love

Poppy's life appears to be perfect.  She is engaged to be married soon to a nice guy she has been dating for a long time.  What viewers notice immediately is that Poppy is always giving in to what her fiance, Joel, prefers.  For example, even though she has a great apartment, they plan to live in his apartment once they are married.  He doesn't want her to bring anything to the apartment after they are married, except herself and her clothes.  Exclusions include a Gainsborough couch that she wants to keep.  He suggests they should pick out a new couch together.

She also has a good job as a marketing specialist, but she feels she is not appreciated by her boss, Ingrid Jordan.  She would love to be given free rein with an ad campaign, but Ingrid has her own creative, somewhat extravagant, ideas.  Ingrid is a phenomenally successful beauty therapist and influencer on social media and believes she is solely responsible for her success, even though Poppy has been with her all along.

Ingrid sets up a meeting with a top executive from Aspire Ad Agency to help her launch Jordan eye shadow. Aspire happens to be the ad agency where Poppy has dreamed of working.  

The executive, Milo Asher, turns out to be a gentleman Poppy met at her apartment building earlier that morning.  He wanted to rent the penthouse, but the manager is extremely selective about who rents there. Tony will only lease to someone who is "stable".  

Poppy would love to get a job at Aspire Ad Agency, which Milo can give her.  Milo would love to get the penthouse in The Gregory apartment building, but he needs a fiance to appear more settled.  A plan is hatched between them that Poppy will pretend to be his fiance, which surprisingly her real fiance approves. 

As you can imagine, things don't go exactly as planned.  

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This story line makes for a unique and entertaining romantic movie.  You will not be surprised by the ending, but it is still a delightful movie experience.

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When Calls the Heart - Hallmark TV Series Reviewed

Many years ago, I read the "Canadian West" book series by Janette Oke.  A few years ago, I started watching the Hallmark channel series "When Calls the Heart" which is based on that book series and is titled after the first book in the series.  

A few weeks ago, I decided to start watching the TV series again from the beginning.  I do love the show!  With the promised release of season eight in 2021, I wanted to go back to the beginning before the new series actually airs.  Yes, I realize I have plenty of time before 2021, but I rarely spend a lot of time watching TV during the holidays and I expect it to take me a few months to watch all of the episodes again.

I would also like to read the book series again.  Janette Oke is one of my favorite authors.  Decades ago, her books were responsible for my discovery of romantic books with a religious theme, which is my preferred book genre.  Any time I see her name on a book, I know I am safe to read that book.  That is extremely important to me.  I don't like grotesque or explicit content in a book or in movies.  Having authors I know will protect my eyes and mind from uncomfortable subject matter makes my book and movie selections a whole lot easier.

This sweet series, that deals with real life issues, is an inspiration.  I really like all of the characters and actors past and present.  

There are extremely sad times in the show, but overall I am left with a feeling of happiness after watching an episode.  And, I am always eager to watch the next one. It is so nice to be able to watch them back to back, without delays or months between the seasons. I have been surprised to realize there were a few things I had forgotten and have enjoyed rediscovering them.

The Synopsis of the Hallmark Series, When Calls the Heart

 When Calls the Heart - Seasons 1-5
Ultimate Collector's EditionCheck PriceIn search of a purposeful life, Elizabeth Thatcher (Erin Krakow) accepts a teaching position in Coal Valley in western Canada.  She immediately discovers that her wealthy family background has not prepared her for the frontier.  That is pretty obvious to everyone, but she is determined to survive, thrive, and succeed.  Fortunately for Elizabeth, she is befriended by a very respected and loved resident, Abigail Stanton (Lori Loughlin) who supports and encourages her in her new life.

Coal Valley has recently endured a horrific coal mine explosion that has made dozens of the women in town (including Abigail Stanton), widows and many of the school children fatherless.  Their church, which housed their school, was burned down.  The classroom has been moved into the saloon, the only local business with a large enough room.  The saloon also doubles as a hotel, which means the students are occasionally interrupted by guests coming in or out, even though the bar is closed during school hours.

Shortly after Elizabeth arrives in Coal Valley, a newly assigned Mountie arrives.  Constable Jack Thornton is not happy with his new assignment.  He was headed to the desired and prestigious assignment of Cape Fullerton when he was redirected and sent to Coal Valley instead.  As soon as Jack hears Elizabeth's last name, he realizes she is the reason he was reassigned and is immediately resentful.  She is clueless about why the new Mountie seems to be mad at her until he explains that clearly her father had him reassigned so he could watch over his "princess" daughter.  Elizabeth isn't happy about it either.  She wants to prove herself capable and independent. She doesn't want or need a Mountie "taking care" of her and she is quick to point that out to Constable Jack.  This is just the first of many conflicts and misunderstandings between Elizabeth and Jack.

Each episode is filled with frontier adventure, drama, life, love, & loss.  Elizabeth is the main character, but there are several other individuals whose stories and lives become very important to the viewer.  Be prepared, you may find yourself talking to the TV, laughing, crying, hissing or even booing some of the people and scenes in this fabulous Hallmark series which will leave you wanting more.  
 

One Extra Note: Be sure you have access to Season 6 before you watch Season 5. You won't wish the finale of Season 5 to be the last thing you see.

 When Calls the Heart Year 10 Collector's EditionCheck Price

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More Great News for "When Call the Heart" - Hallmark has announced there will be a Season 8!


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A Summer Romance Hallmark Movie Reviewed

I can always depend on Hallmark to provide wholesome entertainment!

Hallmark movies have been called "cookie cutter", "unrealistic" and "predictable".  Okay, that may well be true, but who cares.  I love Hallmark movies!  

Hallmark movies are what I call easy watching, like easy listening music.  Not especially profound or deep, but they leave me feeling happy and relaxed.  For me, that is most important when watching movies.  I don't personally need depressing or upsetting, or even realistic all of the time.  But, I'll take "happy" anytime!

I happened upon "A Summer Romance" recently, starring Erin Krakow, who I think is adorable.  It did take me a few minutes to adjust to her character in this movie.  After all, I see her as Elizabeth in "When Calls the Heart" which is an awesome Hallmark series.  She also stars in a Christmas movie I previous reviewed, Finding Father Christmas.  She does an excellent job of acting in all of these movies and has quickly become my favorite Hallmark actress.  Krakow is not exclusively "Hallmark".  They just happen to be where I have seen her most often.

"A Summer Romance" is another sweet romantic movie that ends exactly the way we all hope it will.  Still, it's fun to watch, especially when they take a boy out of the city and introduce him to an unpretentious country girl.  

Plot of the Hallmark movie, A Summer Romance

 A Summer RomanceCheck PriceSamantha Walker is now the sole owner of the Montana ranch that has been in her family for generations.  Unfortunately, a large ranch is expensive to maintain.  Repairs have required Sam to take a bank loan, which she is several months behind on with payments.  That leaves her ranch vulnerable to vultures who desire to build a country club on her land.

Richard Belmont (Ryan Paevey) has already developed a plan to acquire a certain ranch in Bighorn, Montana.  He is certain he can persuade the owner to sell.  What he doesn't realize is that the owner has plans of her own to make her ranch profitable.  

Sam is weighing all of her options, which is why she agrees to meet Belmont and consider his offer.  But, the ranch has been in her family for generations and it is home.  When Richard arrives in Bighorn without reservations for a room, Sam ends up inviting him to stay in the guesthouse on the ranch.  

As Richard spends time with Sam and the residents of the ranch, they all actually become friends.  That is not the best alliance for the man, and the company, who plans to buy the ranch home out from under the owner, now friend.  

Richard only thinks he is completely in charge of the deal.  Sam only thinks she is making the decision.  And, yes, you will have to watch the movie if you want to see what happens.

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Currently, "A Summer Romance" can be purchased on DVD linked above, but is available on Amazon with a subscription to the Hallmark Channel.  

  

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A Gift Wrapped Christmas Movie Review

Most people would say that a review of "A Gift Wrapped Christmas" could be summed up with one word.  I can hear the men in the house saying words like cheesy, sappy, predictable, mush, but the women would say, adorable, sweet, loving, and romantic.  While I doubt very many males would sit down and watch this movie, I do think women will enjoy it.  It provides a nice escape for 87 minutes.

Before I watched this movie, I was not familiar with any of the actors, but I thought I would give it a chance. I was seeking a Christmas movie that didn't require me to be heavily invested. Because I was physically tired and emotional exhausted, I simply wanted a reprieve from reality for just a bit.  That is exactly what I got with A Gift Wrapped Christmas!

A Gift Wrapped Christmas Movie Synopsis

 A GIFT WRAPPED CHRISTMASCheck PriceGwen is a personal shopper that has a unique talent.  She knows what style and colors would look best on her clients at first glance. Matching their personalities requires more individual interaction, but her vivacious personality endears her to them quickly.  

When she is assigned as Charlie Baker's personal shopper, he is not particularly happy with her clothing choices for him.  However, he learns to trust her opinions and gift selections for the people on his Christmas shopping list.  

Because Gwen researches the gift recipient, she is able to buy relevant gifts that are perfect for everyone.  When Charlie reaps the benefits from the gifts she has sent to others in his name, he begins to reconsider his initial opinion of Gwen and her advice. 

In addition to Gwen's ability to delight Charlie's associates with gifts, she also seems to have a knack for making his 8 year old son happy.  

Even though both Charlie and his son, Owen, enjoy having Gwen around, his girlfriend, Victoria, does not.  As a matter of fact, Victoria has her own plans for a special Christmas gift she expects Charlie to give to her.  She is happy to give Gwen a precise description of the engagement ring she should purchase for Charley to give to her.  However, Gwen is not too happy to take her instructions from Victoria.  

I'm sure you can imagine what happens next, but imagining is not as much fun as watching.  I recommend you find a hour this holiday season to gift yourself with the time to watch this delightful Christmas movie.  It will put a lovely smile back on your own face!  

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Love's Complicated - Hallmark Movie Review

While searching for light entertainment last weekend, I came across the Hallmark Movie, Love's Complicated starring Holly Marie Combs and Ben Bass.  Within a few minutes of watching, I knew that I had found exactly what I had been seeking. 

Hallmark is always a reliable source for good movies that usually leave me feeling relaxed, and sometimes even revived after a long day of work and stress.  I know I never have to worry about nudity, excessive foul language, or extreme violence when I turn on the Hallmark channel.  

In a time when movies seem to compete to see which one can be the most extreme, I am most appreciative of a reliable source of mild, lighthearted entertainment that is never embarrassing to watch regardless of whether I am alone, in mixed company, or with my children and parents.  

Love's Complicated Movie Synopsis 

It is easy to like the mild mannered, considerate & compliant Leah in Love's Complicated.   She is the type of person we all enjoy being around.  She rarely, if ever, complains, she does not engage in debates or challenging opinions, she simply goes along happily with whatever others in her life dictate.  Leah doesn't really intend to be a doormat for others, she just doesn't like confrontation.

 Love's ComplicatedCheck PriceWhen her boyfriend of 2 years enrolls her in a conflict management class, she doesn't understand why she would need to be there, especially when she finds out he is not attending the group with her.  Of course, it makes her mad and confused, but she decides to comply with his wishes and attend the sessions.  However, in an unexpected turn of events, she comes face to face with the most annoying people she has ever met.  After all, it was Cinco Dublin who criticized her published book on his radio show, stating that "although well written, Ms. Townsend's safe, Leave it to Beaver take on her childhood, leaves me wanting nothing more from this author, ever."  It is clear from the beginning that Leah has built up resentment toward Cinco and the conflict management class gives her the perfect opportunity to unleash her pent-up emotions. 

The verbal exchanges between Leah and Cinco are revealing about both of their personalities and are often humorous.  They might not be funny to me if I was one of the participates in the conversations, but listening to them made me laugh several times.  

When Leah accepted an unwanted proposal of marriage from her boyfriend, just because she wanted to comply with his desires, and her parents wishes, she finally realizes that she must learn to confront real issues.  Otherwise, she will end up in an unhappy marriage and always letting someone else dictate her life.  At that point, the need for the conflict management classes becomes apparent to Leah.

Additional Thoughts About the Movie, Love's Complicated

While I very much enjoyed this movie and watching a romantic relationship develop, I found I was more intrigued by the concept that conflict management classes were also for people who needed to learn to express their anger, instead of keeping it inside.  I've always thought those classes were for people who lashed out uncontrollably or without an obvious reason.  Recognizing that some attendees might just need to learn how to express their feelings, was rather enlightening for me.

Currently, "Love's Complicated" is available on Amazon with a subscription to the Hallmark Channel.  

  

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Love's Complicated - Hallmark Movie Review Written by:

 

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