Branching Out

8.2 stars.

I thoroughly enjoyed this movie. I could go on about the plot in great detail, but I figure there isn't much point to it. I'll describe in a nutshell. A woman gets pregnant through a sperm bank and has a little girl. Daughter (about 9 years old) overhears some conversation between mom and best friend, now she wants to meet her dad. The rest of the story is about mom and daughter meeting dad and his wonderful extended family. Mommy and baby daddy fall in love, little girl falls in love with the rest of the family - the end.

There are a dozen qualities of this film that really stand that require no further mentioning. I will leave you with a bit of advice: focus on the little girl and her colorful personality and the rest will fall into place.

I knew that when I saw the commercial. It was a movie that I needed to watch. Even if I had to record it and watch it later. I loved that it was something a lil different than what I'm used to watching on Hallmark. DNA. It's usually just about 2 people who fall in love. But I loved the story line. Of finding out who you are and where you come from. Kids wondering where they come from. You don't see a lot of movies like this. Obviously it's Hallmark. So people fall in love. But it was more than just about 2 people. Great songs throughout the movie too. I'm hoping to find out more info on the music used in the movie. It is definitely a good watch!

We watch a lot of Hallmark movies and enjoy them. But they are formualmatic. And if something works let it go and keep doing it. We know it will be family friendly and entertaining. Good enough.

Branching Out is typical Hallmark. But this time we find a family tree that is hidden. As the protagonist finds the Cruz family so do we. Despite Mama Cru, over acting the main characters are excellent. They are actually believable. The writing feeds Ruby's abilities which appears to be many.

The love interest actually makes sense and the problems of them being together are real.

If only the last scene wasn't so typical.

Honestly, I wasn't sure what to expect after reading the movie's description, but the storyline turned out to be a pleasant surprise. The film does a great job focusing on the theme of family growth, even in the face of unexpected circumstances, and beautifully highlights how challenges can bring people closer together. While there are a few unrealistic elements-something common in most romance films-Hallmark manages to make it work, and it doesn't detract from the overall charm of the story. I thoroughly enjoyed the movie and recommend it for anyone looking for a feel-good movie to enjoy and relax.

The script isn't perfect, but the general plot is good, not normal for Hallmark but a refreshing change, it's real life. Artificial insemination is a reality, kids want to know about their parents and family, if they don't get answers when they're young they'll search for them as an adult. DNA isn't just a law enforcement tool, it's available in limited ways to the public.

Well casted with Juan Pablo Di Pace, Sarah Drew and Cora Bella. The supporting cast was good, I especially enjoyed T. J.'s (Di Pace) extended family and all the different personalities. Ruby loves it (Bella) and Amelia (Drew) warms to them slowly. Beautiful filming location in Utah.