Round and Round

This Hallmark holiday romance acknowledges that it is a variation on the film "Groundhog Day", then plots its own course through some twists and turns to a different take on the time loop story.

It all starts on the seventh day of Hanukkah, when Rachel (Vic Michaelis) encounters some difficulties, but makes it to the family celebration, where the drapes catch on fire.

After this complication, Rachel awakes the next day only to find that it is still the seventh day. Nevertheless, she sets about her daily activities---again with some difficulties---while aware of the similarities and differences from her yesterday. She confides in Zach (Bryan Greenberg), a new acquaintance who seems to be a part of the overall scheme of the day. Together they try to find any cause for the phenomenon or any way out of it. They bring others into their quest, which resets every morning.

The diverse cast includes some strong performances, like Paula Shaw who plays Rachel's grandmother Rosie with a strong presence.

The plot is part sci-fi, part mystery, part romance, and part comedy. And each part gets its due. The leads are strong. The story starts slowly, but that is necessary to set up the details of Rachel's day; soon enough the narrative gets going and the pace is enjoyable.

Each year Hallmark gives us a Hanukkah movie. For the last several years they have been a bit dry and focused on teaching the rest of the world what Jewish traditions are. Well forget all that. Round and round is a delightfully fun holiday movie that just so happens to feature a story that involves Hanukkah. Rachel gets stuck in a time loop and keeps repeating the same day over and over again. Through her loops she learns things about herself, meets a guy (often), and has a bit of caper-style fun along the way. This was a great movie that surprised me. I'd love to see Hallmark replay this one throughout the season. It's a keeper.

This movie was sharp, well-written and fun, with lots of really smart twists, turns and comments by the characters. I am going to have to watch again just to catch all the great little references sprinkled throughout. The script-writing at a much higher level than the usual Hallmark fare and the filming also seemed to be much higher quality. The cast was well-chosen. I loved the chemistry between the two main characters and the side characters were great, especially the two older ladies and the sci fi friends. Honestly, I am a huge Hallmark watcher and this is one of best movies they've made, definitely in the top 10. More like this, Hallmark -- please!!!

I watch a lot of Hallmark movies and this one blew me away!! Top notch comedy, amazing chemistry, and lots of twists I didn't see coming. An amazing holiday romcom! I love Vic as a comedian, and that really showed through in this performance.

Hallmark really took the time to develop the side characters in this as well. Seth was a hoot, as was the cousin from England/Jersey. This movie really got the point across that i DO NOT want to get stuck in a time loop (unless it's with a boy as cute as this leading man of course!)

Truly one of hallmark's best. From jokes about Dr. Dre(idel) to heartwarming family talks about following your true passion, this movie had it all. I couldn't stop laughing!!

This was unexpectedly funny and an enjoyable story. Amidst the seventh night of Hanukkah celebration, Rachel meets Zach...twice. The first time he bumps into her racing for the train and ruins the jelly donuts from Goldberg's, the second time it's an introduction by her Grandma Rosie. Amidst all the nerd jokes and the Groundhog Day theme, there is actually a decent romance...set to a great 1980's soundtrack.

The parents have a great origin story, but this is really all about Rachel and Zack...and a little about Grandma Rosie. The supporting characters were fun and the only actor that seemed a bit miscast or awkward was Bex.

I also really appreciated the train stop busker who played both Christmas and Hanukkah songs, as well as the art exhibition at the senior center that had both Christmas and Hanukkah art displayed.

I think if you have a sense of humor, like romance, and appreciate Hanukkah...you might like round and round.