SIGNED, SEALED, DELIVERED: TRUTH BE TOLD – The POstables – a special group of Post Office Investigators – are on the case when a soldier’s letter home is lost in the mail. Though they find the letter’s intended recipient, the team discovers that, in this case, finding the letter’s sender is just as important in unlocking the letter’s true mystery. During the investigation, POstable leader Oliver goes on a personal journey of his own when his estranged father comes back into his life with shocking family news. 

POTENTIAL SPOILER ALERT:  As always, there is the chance I will share something you didn’t know about the movie already, but I do my best to keep my revelations to what Hallmark has already shared. If you are worried about spoilers, I would encourage you to stop reading now. However, if you are ready, let’s jump right in!

Eric Mabius, Kristin Booth, Gregory Harrison, Geoff Gustafson, Crystal Lowe

Let me say from the outset that I know I always say the most current Signed, Sealed, Delivered movie is the best one, but this one really is. In fact, it is a transcendent one for me. Typically, Hallmark tends to have the “happily ever after” stories–even in relation to this series of films. However, this is a bit of a departure (not in a bad way) as I seriously believe this film is possibly the most realistic story with which our beloved POstables have been associated. There are some definite surprises in the storyline, and I do recommend having a box of tissues handy.

Megan Charpentier as Pheobe

First of all, I knew I recognized this young actress who portrays the sweet Pheobe who is awaiting conclusive news of her soldier mother. I knew I recognized her name right away–Megan Charpentier. And upon researching her, I discovered that her resume is quite extensive, especially for one so young. It would appear I most know her from the movie The Christmas Clause, but I think I also remember her from the clips I saw of Grumpy Cat’s Worst Christmas Ever. As Pheobe, Megan is positively enchanting! There could be no one else who could play that wide-eyed, dreamy child (who blissfully bonds with Norman–I loved that) who never stops believing even when reality stares her in the face.  I will unquestionably watch out for this talented lady as I’m certain her career will continue to flourish as the years pass.

Gregory Harrison

Certainly no stranger to the screen, Gregory Harrison portrays Oliver’s father, and everything we adore about this seasoned veteran he breathes into this role. I couldn’t even begin to list all the things in which I have seen him, but he is particularly fantastic in this role.  In fact, this is a part that just fits him like a glove.

What makes his role work so exquisitely are his interactions with Eric Mabius, the consummate Oliver O’Toole. The interactions between these two absolutely make this film what it is. Both are masters at their craft, and the nuances exchanged through body language and facial expression add to the authenticity of the story being told.

Seeing these two characters together, we finally begin to obtain some insight into what makes Oliver tick as we unravel the facts of Oliver O’Toole and what has contributed to making him who he is. Up to this point, Martha Williamson (the series creator/writer) has not given us much information about our dear Oliver’s background except in relation to his wife who abandoned him and then ended the marriage.

But with the marvelous story and unparalleled acting, we finally get to peer into the very soul of Oliver. He still has concealed some portions of himself, but we finally are getting to know who this complex gentleman is. He and his father are so alike and yet so different. But the fact of the matter is–they know each other inside and out in spite of any tragedies or misunderstandings.

But I will warn you. It’s not going to be fun and games all the time. Don’t expect to get through the intense drama and emotions these two bring to the roller coaster ride story. And you thought the last story was intense? Be prepared for even more impassioned moments as these two skilled professionals deliver the story in the impressive way only they can.

Geoff Gustafson (Norman)

But I’ll be honest–Norman does steal the show when it comes to cuteness and sweetness. I mean, look at that cherubic  face! Who could deny this guy anything? Geoff Gustafson is one of those rare talents who makes you fall in love with him the moment you see him on-screen.  I lost count of how many times I found myself applauding and crying out “I just love Norman!” And indeed I do. Geoff has molded this character into the  loveable, quirky, and downright humorous character he has become. There is one one else who could breathe life into the darling character that is Norman Dorman.

Early on in the film, Norman and Oliver have an exhilarating chat that gives us so much insight into who Norman really is. To see these two together is sheer heaven on earth. It is doubtful if anyone else can be just as patient as Oliver (except Rita of course) when conversing with Norman. Norman always comes to Oliver for advice, and thankfully Oliver is always ready to guide him benevolently along.

I don’t want to give too much away, but it’s magnificent to see Norman yet again coming to Oliver for “love life” advice like he did during the last film. And Eric and Geoff just have the perfect on-screen interactions. In spite of the fact that they are both talented actors, neither upstages the other. If anything, they spur each other on to eminence, and neither seeks the limelight.

Geoff Gustafson, Crystal Lowe

Of course, no POstable film is complete without darling scenes between Norman and Rita. After the last film, the audience may be expecting full-blown dating between these two, but it would behoove the audience to remember these characters are both a bit uneasy about their relationship. And Crystal and Geoff are the ideal actors to play these complex, gifted characters. We finally see Rita more at peace with who she really is. Norman is starting to become a little more outspoken, but he is still a bit shy. The really pleasing thing is that these characters are beginning to open each other up. As they sense acceptance from the other person, we see the dynamics of a relationship the way it should be.

In a relationship, both parties seek full acceptance of their genuine selves just as they are. This requires patience, support, and good old-fashioned hard work. It also requires both parties to sense a safety net should they accidentally make the wrong move or say something that is misconstrued. Amazingly, this kind of relationship is uncommon in the world of entertainment and even rarer in the real world. Rita and Norman have brought us the model example of a relationship that functions as it should. Take risks, take things one at a time, and most importantly, have fun together. And Crystal and Geoff have brought us more nuances of this ideal but attainable relationship in this one film than most of us experience in a lifetime. Kudos to Hallmark, Martha Williamson, and these talented and engaging people. They are the pinnacle of relationship success.

Kristin Booth as Shane

I never can say enough about Kristin Booth. The way she plays Shane is so astounding that words fail me. Shane has sincerely made a study of Oliver O’Toole, and it is rhapsodic to witness her putting that information into practice in her dealings with him. Kristin portrays her in such a way that again shows another relationship dynamic that sometimes must be employed. While tolerance is compulsory, Oliver is one of those individuals that needs to be prodded but only at the right times and with a delicacy that most cannot achieve. Shane has learned that all too often Oliver doesn’t want to share his personal details, but if she waits and provokes him in just the right way, he will share (because he really wants to share–he’s just a tough nut to crack sometimes).

The chemistry between Kristin and Eric is unusual but just as extraordinary. Oliver is the perfect chivalrous gentleman complete with charm, poise, and a reserved nature. It takes a unique gem of a woman who can calmly peel back the layers of Oliver without pushing too hard. Gratefully, Oliver and Shane have an understanding in which he allows her to pry, and even when she goes too far, he forgives her because he knows where her heart lies. And deep down, we know he appreciates her insatiable curiosity.

In all of Kristin’s dealings with her costars, she is absolutely radiant and works easily with each of them. Seeing the way both Oliver and Shane light up in each other’s presence is a rare treat. Kristin and Eric are absolute masters at facial expressions and body language that tells us more than their words ever could.  There are times that a look can say so much more than a kiss ever would.

Kristin and Crystal have a euphoric scene together in the beginning when Oliver and Norman are having their “boy talk.” It is enjoyable to see the way these two have bonded, and their conversation is a unique look at Rita. While Rita is often an open book about much in her life, she doesn’t always say what she really wants in life. She has learned to be more assertive due to her friendship with Shane, and I have great confidence that in the future, she and Norman will be “an item.” In fact, dare I say, I would look for them to be a couple before Shane and Oliver are, but time will only tell.  Regardless, Crystal has brought such authenticity to Rita (and she is such a sweetheart anyway) that I am forever smiling whenever she is on the screen.

Eric Mabius as Oliver O’Toole

In truth, this film could easily be subtitled “Oliver’s Journey.” While he has always been an prominent character, he often takes a backseat to Shane’s past, Rita’s pageant, and Norman’s story.  In fact, his wife was highlighted specifically in the last film. He’s always there, but we often don’t feel like we really know the man behind the suit. Thankfully, in this film, we are going to get questions answered we didn’t even know we had about his past.

Within minutes of seeing Eric as he portrayed Oliver in this particular film, I declared that he was an absolute master. Typically, Oliver is even-keeled, and he doesn’t normally display intense emotions. He conceals his tears, anger, and even his joy. Once in a while, these emotions come out. But never have we seen him display bitterness, and in this film, he does. To see Oliver’s face contorted (more of the phenomenal acting stylings of Eric) truly conflicted me. I mean, how can he call himself a man of faith and yet display such venom for another human being? I can’t quite put into words just how dominant Eric’s acting is in this film–he definitely has outdone himself by demonstrating all the many facets of the enigmatic Oliver O’Toole though his riveting use of facial expressions and body language. But as you can see from the picture, Oliver also has a genuine smile. Something we don’t always see from him. Though there are vast tragedies encapsulated in this tale, know that there are truly stunning moments of ecstasy that you will relish. And with Eric leading his character through a whirlwind of emotions, we are guaranteed a brilliant story–in my opinion, the most amazing one so far.

As we have come to expect with Martha Williamson’s deep and emotionally stirring storylines, we are guaranteed more than a passing reference to faith. Oliver is that man of deep faith, and in the midst of the tumult, we know where he will turn. Indeed, the thing that I appreciate most about this series (in addition to the acting that simply blows me away) is the emphasis on true faith. No matter what the characters come up against, you can bet your bottom dollar that there will always be a return to God and faith. And as you can see, Oliver does just that. There are copious references to faith and God’s hand in all things. And you will see His Providence guiding the characters on their journey, most notably Oliver.

In conclusion, I cannot say enough about this spectacular series. Each actor involved has completely immersed themselves in the characters. But at the core of everything is Martha Williamson’s heart and soul. Don’t miss this masterpiece on Sunday evening.

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