'Rip in Time' (2022)
Opening thoughts: The 2022 Hallmark Movies and Mysteries block was a mixed bag. While there were hits such as 'North to Home' and 'The Presence of Love', there was also duds like 'Cut, Color, Murder'. While time travel is not a new concept for Hallmark, it is something that has worked remarkably well in the past and is actually yet to feel stale. Torrey DeVitto and Niall Matter have been very watchable and more in other things, so expectations were high actually for 'Rip in Time'.
Luckily, 'Rip in Time' did not disappoint. Of the 2022 Hallmark Movies and Mysteries films, it is one of the best and the most refreshing, seeing as it is different to what is typically seen in Hallmark's Hallmark Movies and Mysteries films. 2022 was a year that saw a lot of recycled ideas that varied wildly in execution. As said, the time travel concept is not new for Hallmark, but there was something about how 'Rip in Time' approaches it that felt fresh. After seeing a large number of Hallmark films with over familiar execution of samey formulas, this was a relief.
Bad things: Did feel that it felt a little too rushed at the end, where the imagination also goes and the films wraps up conventionally and a bit too neatly.
Also did feel that the quantum physics explanation was not particularly necessary and maybe a little more complicated than it should have been.
Good things: However, it is a very attractively photographed film with lovely scenery with effects that didn't look amateurish at all. Also pleasant is the music, which has presence without coming over as over-bearing or too constant. The direction shows a good deal of confidence and a sense that they knew what they were doing and trying to achieve. The script flows well and is light hearted, witty and nostalgic, shining particularly in the hilarious and affectionate references and the lead banter. Which has a lot of playful wit and not over-hostility heavy.
Furthermore, the story has a lot of heart and charm, and has a nice liveliness too. While not innovative, the time travel element never comes over as confusing or cheap. The characters were ones worth caring for, and DeVitto and Matter are very confident and charming in the lead roles and have a strong spark together. Actually got the sense they enjoyed working together. The supporting cast are solid.
Closing thoughts: Overall, very good.
8/10.
