Branching Out

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.

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.

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.

I love the alternate universe of Hallmark movies. I started watching them in 2017 and they have been a soothing escape from troubled times. But even I get a little tired of the formula. So I was delighted last years when Hallmark Movies and Mysteries began providing movies with a little more depth like Guiding Emily, Come ly with Ne, etc. They've migrated to Hallmark and I strongly suspect that this gem was originally intended for HMM.

If you've seen the commercials, you know the basic story- a child conceived by IVF is curious about her donor. A wonderful cast makes this a joy all-around experience. Most important is the joy of family and the recognition that family comes in many forms. After watching again, I have to add how much I enjoyed the "introvert sucked into a loud, boisterous family" theme. I can relate to that. And also how refreshing it is to have characters who are flawed but still likeable. Very well done.

My only minor quibble is the teacher. No real teacher would push off a student's concern on such a sensitive topic with a platitude. I understand the limitations of time, but that one thing niggled at me.

If you are a Hallmark fan and have enjoyed those mentioned that have a little more depth, I think you will love this.

I absolutely loved this movie it was such a beautiful story and they chose the most incredible characters for this movie. I hope that they have another one to continue on with this one because it was so worth watching and the music absolutely phenomenal. I felt it was very realistic. It was based on a book from what I've been told, and some of it was actually true. I love the different cultures and the families, the different dynamics of each family, and how they were raised. If you want to watch a truly genuine heartfelt movie, this is it right here. And if you love music, you'll love the music in this movie that also was incredible. I truly wish Hallmark would bring more movies like this to air since they've lost so many actors and actresses to another channel.