Have always watched Hallmark films with an open mind but also always without expecting too much. Some films have come off much better than expected, managing to make something appealing from unappealing or basic premises. Some are more or less what was expected in both good and bad ways. Then there are some that really don't live up to expectations and do so many things wrong. My expectations were in neither category this time, only expecting something watchable.
Something watchable this reviewer absolutely got. 'Love's Complicated' may not be a great film or an award worthy film but that is not to be expected, was expecting sweet light hearted fun at least and got that absolutely. That is from personal view though as Hallmark films have not connected for all, but one has to know what to expect or be in the right mindset. Hallmark have made some not so good films absolutely, but they have also made some worthwhile ones and 'Love's Complicated' is one of those.
'Love's Complicated' isn't perfect. It is formulaic, with pretty much what is expected mapping out as expected, meaning that there are not many if any surprises.
Did feel too that the final quarter was on the too rushed and too neat side, which is actually not an uncommon problem for Hallmark.
However, 'Love's Complicated' is worth seeing still for the appealing. Easy going performances of Hollie Marie Combs and particularly Ben Bass. Their characters are worth getting behind even with their flaws and they have genuine, natural chemistry together. The supporting cast are solid with no exception.
It looks good, especially the scenery which is lovely. Other Hallmark films fare a lot worse when it comes to having ill fitting and intrusive music, neither of which were an issue really with me here. While the script is not Oscar worthy material, it at least has a natural flow and doesn't come over as too cheesy, schmaltzy or waffly. Generally the story has a warm centre, is light-hearted and doesn't feel dull.
Concluding, nice film. 7/10.
