What a refreshing film this is! It combines the modern day concept of TV show "dating"..the idea that someone can meet a perfect stranger and develop a relationship in a matter of weeks..and then it introduces a twist. The leading actress, Pascale Hutton, played with her usual maturity and grace, is presented as an intelligent, striving employee of her firm, hoping to be considered for a significant promotion. She is sensible, cautious, and mature...a woman that many viewers can relate to. While she is reluctant to enter the TV dating show, she moves forward with skepticism and wisdom. The man who is presented to her as her bachelor "match" could not be a more inappropriate a partner for her. They are as opposite as any two people could be, but they strive to make the show's premise work..clearly without much success.
The "hero" of the film is Sam Page, always an appealing and attractive leading man, with flawless acting skills, and with his engaging smile. There is a slow and cautious relationship developed between the two leads, something neither of them anticipated, and something that is clearly much more real than the TV show's contrived match-up.
As the ranch owner/guide who is assigned to help the two contestants get to know one another through various activities, it becomes clear that he has much more in common with our heroine than the match she is set up with..
One of the very touching and poignant connections he makes with the young woman is that while some of her fears keep her from trying new experiences, she should take her fears and just do the dreaded activity while she is afraid. This simple act of kindness and understanding endears the two to one another..and she is able to take some risks she had not dared to take before. It is a life lesson for any viewer who is hobbled by a fear they cannot surmount.
Two very small drawbacks..As is typical in a Hallmark movie, there is a misunderstanding that causes a rift. It gets resolved, of course.,.Also, the ranch guide's mother, is played by the wonderful Susan Hogan. While she has the most expressive features, deep and haunting eyes.. she seems to have a problem with a hairdo that could be better managed and kept from flying in her face. A small criticism..
To Hallmark's credit..this movie allows out leading lady and hero kiss before the last 30 seconds..What a delightful treat!! Send us more of this!!
