Throughout my recently started Hallmark film completest quest expanding (so The Spring Fever, Summer Nights, Fall Harvest etc blocks on top of the Christmas films) an interesting quest but very mixed one, there was never the mentality of expecting a classic or the film in question to be flawless. Which never was the case. There was always the expectation of seeing a film where one can see at least some effort rather than merely cash-in level.
Effort that can absolutely be seen in 'A Novel Romace'. It is only the second 2015 Hallmark film and already that year has gotten off to a promising start for Hallmark. No Hallmark film seen yet has been great, though many has had many great things while having a few not so good ones. Which is the case with 'A Novel Romance'. Really liked the concept, which was cute if familiar, and the film does a nice job with it while never doing anything extraordinary.
'A Novel Romance' isn't perfect. It is let down by the very rushed and very silly final act, with almost everything happening too hastily and most of it not ringing true. Like most Hallmark films, the ending is a bit too neat.
Was expecting to be pretty predictable, and was not disappointed in this respect, very by the letter.
However, so much is great. It is a very nice looking film, one of Hallmark's best looking 2015 films in my view. The scenery really does entrance and the photography doesn't cheapen it at all. The music at least fits tonally and in placement and has presence without being over-loud. The dialogue is sharp enough and flows naturally, while also having the right amount of sentiment (not too much in quality and quantity).
Characters aren't complex, then again that shouldn't be expected watching Hallmark, but aren't too stereotypical and are generally likeable enough. The story may be predictable and not perfect in execution, but it is incredibly charming, sweet without being too sugary and very heart-warming. There is a nice lightness to it too on the whole. The cast are all solid, with Amy Acker being especially engaging. Very nice chemistry with her and equally charming Dylan Bruce.
Summing up, nice film. 7/10.
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