Love at Sunset Terrace

This was a very well-done little story. Up TV, in recent days, is really showing up Hallmark in terms of fresh faces, well-written scripts, and character development. The three leads were more than half the appeal. Ellen Woglom was appealing and charming as the female lead. She has a killer smile and I appreciated that she did not have a stick thin runway model body. Carlo Marx was handsome and likable as the vulnerable father who was over-protective and almost needy with his daughter. The young daughter was played by Erica Tremblay. Again, a young actress who was hired for her talent rather than cutesy wutesy looks and perky sparkles. She is the younger sister of the multiple award winning film actor, Jacob Tremblay.

The romantic relationship developed naturally and believably rather than a series of "meet-cutes" and fake instalove based on nothing but two pretty people snarking and bickering at each other. The setting looked like a real place rather than a MacMansion plopped down in front of a stunning view. I'd stay there and feel right at home. The Conflict was the same old same old (workaholic big city girl reconnects with nature while meeting troubled widowed Dad of young girl and presto chango lifestyles are changed and a new family is formed). But Up TV shows once again that this tired plot can be done in an entertaining and engaging way. Hallmark really should be upping their game. I fear they are have become over-reliant on their "big" name stable of actors and actresses at the expense of giving exciting young talent a chance to shine and scriptwriters who work hard to offer a quality product while still falling within the genre's parameters.

I really loved the story and the setting; Carlo Marks, as usual, is very good.

However, I think that the choice of the actress was not a smart move: she looks older than him even if she is a good actress.

I enjoyed watching the movie but the connection between Michael and Sophie was not convincing. They are both lovely actors but did not work for me as romantic partners. Another reviewer mentioned some of Sophie's behaviors that were immature. I agree! It just did not quite all work together even if the movie was enjoyable overall.

I disagree with some of the reviewers here who criticized Ellen Woglom more severely than she deserves. The very thin actresses look unhealthy. So, it is great to see healthy actresses, such as Ellen, in these better romantic films.

She could have worn more flattering pants through the film, if one is looking at what the actors/actresses wear. Male actors get away with non-flattering clothes. Double standards here, right?

Not everyone is focused on wearing designer clothes all the time.

I enjoy Carlo Marks. His acting is never overdone, and he appears to be great with children. The romantic films I have seen him in, include children.

Ellen also did not over-act as in too many of the romance films where the actresses have way too many fake smiles and acting, etc. Ellen appears more down to earth, relaxed, and comfortable. As Carlo was.

The story, taking place in a modest B&B, rather than a high end resort, is a welcome change as well.

Enjoy this feel good, romantic film, with a great story!

Very nice movie, Lovely location, non sophisticated story, all the time while you watch it you are smiling and feeling relax, what I need more?!!! In addition I love all the clothes which Sophie wear.