Love Takes Flight

This certainly is one of my favourite feel good, heart warming films.

With all the black themed films and strife in our world, more of these types of films are necessary.

It is refreshing to see different scenarios and plot in this film with much more depth, than so many of the typical Hallmark films with the same plots and scenarios. Here, there is quality performances by all the actors and actresses.

Contrary to some of the reviews for this film, I feel that the two lead characters were solid, realistic, and heartwarming. What is chemistry? Is it supposed to be seen with sparks flying? I try not to slot people in pigeon holes, where they then become no more than robotic characters. Each person is an individual. This is what helps to make life exciting. After all, there are multitudes of people in this world. Thus, I love and appreciate that these two leads do not fall into any "typical Hallmark" character slot. Each of us shows love in different ways. I feel that the characters of both Lizzie (Nikki Deloach) and Charley (Jeff Hephner) were drawn to each other, which developed into a cherished love. Both appreciated the quality, strength, courage, and caring in each other, even though these characteristics were not overdone with more words than were necessary. Expression, action, and understanding was enough. Often, less is more, as was demonstrated here. Similar occurs with the relationship between Walter and Quinn, and the developing relationship between Walter and Charley.

So many true life aspects were covered. A confident veteran pilot (Charley) with a slight hero complex who becomes the EMS pilot who demonstrates his bravery and commitment. A dedicated single mom (Lizzie), who gives up part of her career for her daughter (Quinn) with a chronic illness that was not overemphasized. A grieving husband (Walter) from the loss of his wife, along with the grieving son (Charley) from the loss of his mother. The birth of a child by Lizzie's sister. All these characters intertwined through the evolution of their relationships with each other. All with real life imperfections that include problems and miscommunications, that get sorted out with a happy ending, as love, growth, and understanding overcomes all.

Of course, it would be wonderful if all issues ended this way in real life. :)

With the exception of the pilot character calling the helicopter rotors 'propellers' in the beginning, this movie hit solidly on several themes: Closed-off single mom, hurting widower father and adult son, job romances, job pressures and dangers.

Yes, there is the usual break-up around the bottom of the 2nd hour that seems to be a Hallmark movie requirement, but all the elements come together in the end.

I appreciated the less than saccharine tone, choosing to deal with real-life issues providing more depth than many a Hallmark movie. Well done. A keeper.

Single working mom, Lizzie, who's daughter Quinn is insulin dependent gave up her OB-Gyn practice to be a hospital administrator to spend more time with her daughter. Lizzie has become a bit shut-off and distrusting since her divorce. Along comes former military EMS helicopter pilot, Charlie.

Charlie pushes Lizzie's limits...everything from her fear of flying to her overly conservative rules.

These two seem destined to be together from the very beginning.but the bigger story is the friendship between the grieving widow, Walter, and Quinn who is on a "find a friend" mission. If I knew you could pick up a sweet and kind older gentleman at the grocery store...I'd be spending more time there myself.

This movie was sweet and endearing and had a lot going on...big topics to tackle, but seemed to manage it in the end.

Other than Hallmark film completest sake, my main reason for seeing 'Love Takes Flight' was Nikki DeLoach. While her filmography is hit and miss, her performances have always been consistent in a good way. Was also interested to see whether it deserved its spot on the Hallmark Hall of Fame and do appreciate it when any film explores real life family relationships and conflicts, while Hallmark can do well and has done.

'Love Takes Flight' on the most part does this aspect well. While not being sure whether it is Hallmark Hall of Fame worthy, it is (even with its flaws) one of the better 2019 Hallmark films along with 'Love on the Menu', 'Love to the Rescue', 'Love and Sunshine' and 'The Christmas Club' for example. Though not as good as those films. 'Love Takes Flight' is far from perfect, but its sincerity was never in doubt and its good intentions laudable.

Am going to begin with the not so good. It is at its weakest with the central romantic relationship, which is not developed enough, the other relationships had a lot more heart and development whereas this one is too drifting in and out with not much distinction. The chemistry between DeLoach and Jeff Hephner is far from non-existent, their relationship is too underwritten.

Did think that some of the film dragged, especially in the early portions where the set up takes too long. Some of the dialogue is too on the sappy side.

However, a lot is good. DeLoach is just great in a charming and heartfelt performance. Hephner has a subtly natural charisma and matches DeLoach in the charm factor. The supporting cast are more than up to their level, with the standout being adorable and affecting Skylar Olivia Flanagan (neither cutesy or bratty). Did like the development given to the characters and appreciated that they felt like real people in real conflicts rather than typical ciphers. Nobody comes over as too perfect or has flaws exaggerated.

Other than the romantic relationships, the family relationships are done very well. Very heart-warming and moving, without being too treacly or heavy. The Charley and Quinn relationship is especially beautifully done, with the mother and daughter one close behind (one that was quite relatable to me).

It is a good looking film, especially the scenery. Something that Hallmark often delivered on, even in their misfires. The music isn't over-scored or too constant. The script isn't awkward and has a few amusing moments amongst the many very sweet and touching dramatic ones while keeping sentimentality at bay. The story is not innovative but clearly knew exactly what it wanted to be and do, and has lightness, warmth and charm. As well as well meaning honesty.

Summing up, worth a look. 7/10.

Set and filmed in Savannah, for us it revived pleasant memories of our long weekend there a few years ago. A noted surgeon has developed a new transplant technique, she is looking for a hospital where she can make it work. A missing piece at the moment is no helicopter pilot, the transplant material has a very short required transit time.

They find a pilot, former military, but he is also attracted to the pretty and capable doctor who has become the hospital administrator. The attraction turns out mutual but, following the Hallmark formula, something gets in the way. Only at the last possible moment are they able to get on the same wavelength.

My wife and I enjoy Hallmark movies, they are pleasant entertainment and always under 90 minutes. As this one is. We watched it at home on DVD from our public library.