Villa Amore

"Villa Amore" is one of the best Hallmark movies I've seen in a long time. It has depth. It's real and it's vulnerable. Leaving behind the common clichés, Hallmark has given us a movie that will make you believe that happily ever afters truly do exist. While there were no grand gestures, what we got was better. This is a sweet story of two people finding their forever love all while experiencing the magic of Italy. Eloise Mumford and Kevin McGarry both give fantastic and believable performances, making this a movie you actually won't want to miss. I hope we see Hallmark make more movies like this one!

I loved Villa Amore so much. If you're looking for an endearing, feel-good romance, this one is for you. The chemistry between the leads was unmistakable. Kevin McGarry and Eloise Mumford were fantastic together. Their characters each had issues they were working through, but this didn't play out in the drama you usually get from a Hallmark movie. Instead, they developed a mature, deep relationship over months (instead of days which is the norm for Hallmark). This movie provided some very romantic moments. In addition, it was sweet, funny, and engaging. Even my Hallmark-movie-hating husband watched and enjoyed. That is high praise for sure! It's my new favorite Hallmark movie.

Eloise Mumford is hands-down one of my favorite Hallmark actresses, she brings such warmth and sincerity to every role. Honestly, I've never seen a movie of hers I didn't like, and this one was no exception. The moment I saw the previews, I had a feeling it would be something special. Add Kevin McGarry to the mix, who always brings his A-game, and I was sold.

Liara and Leo's chemistry is almost immediate, and it feels natural-not forced or overly scripted, just two people falling into step with each other in the kind of way that makes your heart flutter a little. And can we talk about the donkey? Absolute scene-stealer. That sweet animal added such a charming, unexpected touch to the story.

But beyond the romance and the postcard-perfect scenery, it was Liara's emotional journey that stayed with me. Watching her pour love, grief, and hope into fixing up the villa for her mother gave the story depth. Her neighbors were quirky and loveable, and even the grumpy postal woman won me over-every side character added to the richness of the story.

There was one moment that hit me like a freight train. When Liara fell off the ladder and broke down, telling Leo through tears, "I just want my dad back," it stopped me in my tracks. I've said those exact words more times than I can count. That ache, that longing-it's something you never quite outgrow, no matter how much time passes. That scene was beautifully done and deeply human.

This movie has heart, humor, and a story that lingers long after the credits roll. It's the kind of film that wraps around you like a warm hug. And with that satisfying yet open-ended finale? I'd happily sign up for a sequel.

Villa Amore is an excellent movie. The two leads are perfectly cast. Kevin McGarry, as usual, is superb as Leo. He gives the character both charm and depth. It's another home run for Kevin. Eloise Mumford is also wonderful, she portrays Liara with a vulnerability that elevates the movie. She makes you fell her sorrow and joy. The story is great. I like that the love story happens over 90 days instead of within a week like some Hallmark movies (not to diss those movies, I often love them too). You really feel the connection between Leo and Liara, it is a believable love story. Overall, I would recommend this movie!

I expected Villa Amore to be just another ho-hum Hallmark formula flick - but the moment Liara set foot in Italy, I found myself unexpectedly connecting with her in deeply personal ways. I came for Kevin McGarry (my favorite!), but Eloise Mumford completely drew me into her character's heart and soul.

Filmed on location, Villa Amore is steeped in vibrant small-town Italian culture. The setting felt so rich and authentic, it was like getting my own mini-vacation.

I don't usually get too invested in side characters, especially when their roles are small, but here, each one added humor, warmth, and context - with satisfying, sometimes hilarious resolutions to their arcs. And that surprise twist at the end with the realtor and Leo's Nonna? Absolutely delightful. My laugh-out-loud moment: the Rome hotel concierge scrambling to erase the "honeymoon" vibe from Liara's suite!

The real surprise, though, was the love story. Sure, the bones of the plot follow the Hallmark template, but the performances, writing, and camerawork elevated everything. Leo and Liara's chemistry made it feel fresh and cinematic - many fans I've chatted with said it's worthy of a big-screen release. And let's be honest: some of the details were just straight-up clean sexy.

Villa Amore played to Kevin McGarry's strengths while giving him room to stretch - from sweet domestic moments and smoldering kisses to speaking Italian and portraying a panic attack with surprising depth. He's at his best as a romantic lead, and this film gave him plenty of chances to shine: tender gazes, hand-holding, soft touches, and yes - multiple swoon-worthy kisses.

If I were asked to come up with some criticism, I would mention the following weaknesses: 1. Although Leo is a skilled handy-man, we never actually saw him work on anything at the Villa. We would have really enjoyed some short clips of him working!

2. In regards to Liara's fiance Kyle, that relationship was so clearly over from the very first scene. It wasn't necessary to bring him back for final closure.