Did like the concept, which did sound relatable and touching. Much more so than the outdated and less than tasteful one for the first 2015 June Weddings film 'Perfect Match', which ended up being in execution what its premise sounded like. Teri Polo has not worked for me in everything, but she is good when on form. Have said more than once about not caring generally for Hallmark's June Weddings films, and have seen a good number of them that are not good, but the concept here was enough for me to want to see 'Love, Again'.
'Love, Again' is as cute, relatable and touching as the concept sounded. It is infinitely better than 'Perfect Match' and better than most Hallmark June Weddings film, but doesn't get as much attention as most because of not containing as many Hallmark regular actors (other than Christopher Russell in a supporting role). Something that is a main factor as to why these films are still watched. 'Love, Again' is not a great film, but it is really quite good for early 2010s Hallmark (which was even more hit and miss than 2016 onwards).
Perfect it isn't, with the corniness and sappiness going overboard at times and the pace is too slow in stretches, particularly early on.
Also didn't find the supporting cast particularly memorable in sketchy roles, Russell (who isn't a favourite) certainly went on to much better things.
The film is worth seeing though, particularly for the heartfelt, sincere performance of Polo, who never over-compensates or goes through the motions and does a great job making her character realistic and easy to engage with and relate to. Paul Johannson is a very charming and amiable leading man and is just as subtle, and they have a very sweet and suitably understated chemistry that never looked stiff or distant. It also develops realistically and relatable for primarily anybody in a long term relationship/marriage where longevity was initially called into question. Being somebody part of a family with generations worth of long lasting marriages, that was the case here.
Furthermore, 'Love, Again' looks attractive, especially the scenery and the music doesn't dominate or feel drab. The script is well meaning and takes a mature subject seriously without being over-serious, while having some light hearted-ness that doesn't come over as too jokey. The story isn't perfect, but is very touching and was easy to relate to.
Overall, really nice film. 7/10.
