This movie portrays a mature relationship between two people who meet under very realistic circumstances, each with a history of personal issues that remain unresolved, and the script allows them to slowly and cautiously develop a bond that Hallmark often misses in it's more "fluffy" offerings. Danica McKellar is always reliable in her roles as a mature, intelligent woman and she portrays the female lead in this film with seriousness, with understandable caution moving into a new relationship. Mark Deklin is an attractive leading man, with a captivating smile, but with a serious side that make his role completely believable and valid. It is a pleasure to watch two professionals truly portray their characters. So many Hallmark movies rely on excessive smiling, irrelevant giggling, contrived plots, immature relationships.This one shows how two people, with their own needs and issues and caution about moving forward can learn to trust one another for valid reasons, and allow new hope to enter their lives. The secondary characters in the film do very well.. An older Bess Armstrong as the hero's mother is a strong woman, relaxed in her own values and beliefs. The hero's relationship with his brother is presented realistically.. The heroine's rejected former fiance is shown as a well-meaning fellow who missed the mark when it came to meeting his partner's emotional needs. Probably the real star of this film is the dog..who is so lovable that every scene with her is lit up by her presence.
Hallmark, please try to send us more of this sort of movie! Your viewers are intelligent and mature. We really appreciate your respecting that audience and meeting our needs.
