As usual, I had to a do a little research to discover who played some of the minor characters, and I did ascertain that while this cast has some notable and recognized professionals, there are also several outstanding newcomers. Thankfully, all the actors and actresses work together to make this another of my favorites of the holiday season. In fact, at the end of this film, I declared that this is unmistakably my kind of film.
Emma Burdon-Sutton as Mrs. Claiborne
Emma gives a blissfully magnificent performance as Mrs. Claiborne, the one who is sympathetic to Allie’s plight. After all, her character has experienced true love, and she only wants the best for Allie and Max. Emma is flawless in her role as her character is always at the precise place at the correct time and oversees the blossoming love between the star couple. Her character is the one who stands out on the staff as being kind and sincerely embracing the refreshing change Allie brings to the castle. While her character may often fade into the background, there is no doubt that the viewers will remember fondly her portrayal of this royal staff member.
Rollo Skinner as Aaron & Rose Neville as Lisa
As Allie’s younger brother and sister, Rollo and Rose are ideally suited. Although their roles are small, their impact is sensed throughout the film. Both actors are still relatively new to the acting community (at least as far as television and film credits), and I can only hope we get a chance to see them featured in the future as I am certain these two have more to contribute. However, even in their minor roles, they suit their respective characters properly. My only question is–what is the rest of their story after the ultimate conclusion of this film? I guess that since they are not the focus of the film, that is a question that may never be answered. I am especially interested in Lisa’s future since it seems she is involved in musical theater.
Rose Neville, Danica McKellar Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
In fact, this is the last time we hear about Lisa’s aspirations, and the audience is never treated to the rest of her story. But that is just my nitpicking since I am perpetually curious about musical theater; it doesn’t keep me from enjoying the film as a whole.
Amy Marston as Miss Wick, Danica McKellar as Ellie, Ellie Botterill as Princess Theodora Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
No doubt the audience will remember Amy Marston’s depiction of Miss Wick because she is the “mean” staff member who never smiles and eternally seems to bring negativity with her wherever she goes. Amy plays her faultlessly, and when her character and Danica’s butt heads, it provides a bit of humor. I don’t think Miss Wick ever smiles, and my hat is decidedly off to Amy for this perfect characterization. I hope we haven’t seen the last of this talented actress.
Colin McFarlane as Chancellor Riggs, Alexandra Evans as Celia Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
Unfortunately, Miss Wicks is not the only “villain” in the film. In fact, even worse than that character is this diabolical duo. Both Colin and Alexandra have a plethora of roles to their credit, and in this film, their characters are the ones who labor tirelessly against Allie and her bright perspective. Chancellor Riggs is a massive control freak who wants nothing more than to force the king to do whatever he believes is best for the country. And in his opinion, that is marrying the aloof but exquisite Celia. While the audience never learns exactly what the motivation is in this union, it is crystal clear that money and power lie at the root of it all. Alexander infuses no degree of warmth into Celia’s character, and Colin injects nothing but strict attention to tradition into his demeanor. Neither of these individuals seems to experience genuine emotions, and they have suppressed all authentic humanity from within them and replaced it with greed, avarice, and prestige. Both Colin and Alexandra play their respective roles immaculately, and per typical Hallmark fashion, the viewers can count on the futility of their plans.
Pavel Douglas as Fergus, Ellie Botterill, Danica McKellar Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
Thankfully, there is a voice of reason in the castle, and that is the character of Fergus, played brilliantly by Pavel Douglas. While I’m fairly sure I have seen him here and there, this will be the performance for which I shall cherish him. While Pavel embeds the expected formality that one requires when in the employ of royalty, it is evident that he has not forgotten the essential (and simple) things in life and even the ability to have fun. He is partial to Allie from the beginning, and he never hides his aversion to the Chancellor nor Celia. Although he is merely the royal butler, he is more savvy than most of the people in the castle. Pavel is able to characterize Fergus in such a way that he becomes a confidante and a fount of wisdom for both the king and the charming woman who is wooing the king’s heart. I was thoroughly enthralled with Pavel’s prowess, and I actually think I need to look up more of his works in the months to come.
Ellie Botterill as Princess Theodora Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
Making her film debut, Ellie is positively enchanting as the precocious, mischievous Princess Theodora. I know that Hallmark seems to have become an expert at featuring gifted child actors in their movies, and this is decidedly the case with this young talent. I love her “under her breath” laugh that reminds me of children who get a fiendish delight out of playing pranks, and indeed her character is just that. While her character acts like a princess when she is supposed to…
Rupert Penry-Jones, Ellie Botterill, Alexandra Evans Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
Colin McFarlane, Ruperty Penry-Jones, Ellie Botterill, Alexandra Evans Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
…I think it is clear whom she prefers.
Danica McKellar, Ellie Botterill Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
In truth, she expediently warms up to her new governess, and before long, Theodora discovers the joy of childhood again with the understanding, direct, and fun-loving Allie. I do believe Hallmark has uncovered yet another gem of a young actress in Ellie. Here’s hoping we observe her talents again very soon.
Danica McKellar, Ellie Botterill Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
Danica McKellar, ELlie Botterill Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
Danica McKellar, Rupert Penry-Jones Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
Of course, it is no secret that at the core of this romantic Yuletide tale is this unlikely but precious couple, Allie and Max as played by Danica and Rupert. From the first time they lay eyes on each other, it is evident that some spark has been passed between them. In an uncharacteristic singular fashion, Max almost cannot speak, and he surely cannot take his eyes off the attractive maid. Similarly, poor Allie is fully tongue-tied and completely nonplussed by the attention of this handsome man (and she doesn’t even know his true identity). Allie speaks her mind to Max, and as he tells her later, “not many people speak their mind around here.” And that is something he appreciates about her. In Allie’s case, it is more the fact that she looks past who he is on the exterior and sees the authentic man who has been shrouded for so long by doing what is “right” and “keeping up appearances.” In truth, a vibrant, spirited, charitable man lives beneath the frosty exterior of King Maximilian, and it is Allie, who almost instantly slices through the icy layers to reveal the man inside. This is demonstrated through all their interactions together, but my favorite is the snowball scene–hands down.
Danica McKellar, Rupert Penry-Jones Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
With these two, the chemistry is undeniable, but it remains somewhat restrained and formal most of the time. However, once it is clear that Rupert thinks of Allie as more than a mere governess, there is no doubt that these two have an electrifying chemistry that cannot be squashed by any outside influences, even if it means that Max has to break tradition.
Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
All one has to do is compare his chemistry with Celia to that of Allie, and there really is no contest.
Rupert Penry-Jones, Ellie Botterill Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
Rupert himself is a seasoned actor with plenty of credits to his name, and I am quite certain I have seen some of the works listed. However, this will be the film for which I shall remember him. As Max, he is the ideal vision of royalty that consumes every girl’s fantasy. There is something about royalty, and he portrays Max with such a debonair and sophisticated air sans being too stuffy. His character has never been opposed to bucking tradition, so it should come as no surprise who soon becomes the object of his affection. Their love blossoms so rapidly, but with Rupert playing the lead, I doubt any leading lady would object.
Ellie Botterill, Rupert Penry-Jones Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
Rupert’s character doesn’t always know what to make of his daughter, but in so many ways that rebellious nature is so like him that attempting to force Theodora to be who she is not is in direct opposition to his nature and character. And it is Allie, who recognizes that. Furthermore, without exception, every interaction Rupert has with each character radiates his overwhelming prowess.
Ellie Botterill, Rupert Penry-Jones Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
The way in which Rupert’s character relates to Ellie’s character grants the viewers some of the sweetest scenes in the film. Through the eyes of Max, we travel the sometimes bumpy journey that ultimately ends with his being reminded that doing what is best for him and his family far surpasses doing what is “right” for everyone else. If he cannot live with his choices, he will not be able to live with himself. And at the end of the day, if you can’t live with yourself, life really becomes an insufferable existence.
Photo: Danica McKellar Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
At the heart of this congenial tale is Danica’s performance as Allie. While I have seen her here and there (I never watched her in Wonder Years), there is no doubt that this lady is talented. And if I didn’t know who she was before, I will forever remember her irrepressible, engaging performance in this film. Danica is one of those actresses with whom the viewers fall in love the moment they see her. She has a smile that illuminates the screen, and in this role, she has been handed a role that is so uniquely suited to her talents that I was completely mesmerized. She is the main reason this film took me by storm, and I would never have dreamed that I would be announcing this as one of the best new holiday films this year.
Photo: Danica McKellar Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
Wherever Danica’s character goes, she takes her New York attitude, idealism, and free-spirited thinking with her. Like me, her character does not see the point of maintaining the status quo–change can be an energizing thing. Just because it has been done like that for hundreds of years doesn’t make it valid. And it is all these qualities and more that cause me to thoroughly revel in Danica’s performance. In addition to this, Allie always puts everyone’s needs ahead of hers, even if it costs her transcendent pleasure. I will mention that Danica’s character is never more radiant than when she appears at the ball looking like this and chances to dance with the king (just like a fairytale, I know–but aren’t all of us suckers for this kind of story at Christmas?).
Danica McKellar Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
Although Allie feels like a fish out of water, she never fails to be who she really is no matter the circumstances. And Danica is able to saturate her character with all of these qualities and more with graceful effortlessness. There is no doubt in my mind that Hallmark needs to feature Danica in more films all year long as she is indeed a treasure with more than enough effervescence and ebullience to immerse herself into any role that Hallmark would choose for her to portray.
Danica McKellar, Ellie Botterill Credit: Copyright 2015 Crown Media United States LLC/Photographer: Gabriel Hennessey
Danica’s interactions with Ellie’s character are somewhat reminiscent of Fraulein Maria from The Sound of Music minus the guitar and song. Allie is able to befriend this lonely, little girl in such a way that “Teddy” begins to trust her. I absolutely adored watching these two actresses together as it is a reminder of what a benevolent person can do to change the life of a child (or anyone for that matter). Allie is all about understanding Theodora rather than merely enforcing the rules and insisting that she behaves. It is about relationships more than anything else, and that is what causes Max to fall for her as well.
I will admit to being somewhat reticent when I began watching this as the story sounded a bit hackneyed and too predictable. But as I got caught up in the story, it was the prowess of Danica, Rupert, and even Ellie that caused me to set my preconceived notions aside and watch with increasing interest. It wasn’t long into the film before this trio had my undivided attention, and the story had enough pleasant surprises to make the time I invested in it worthwhile. For a treat your entire family can watch together, don’t miss out on this film. It is sure to be a new Christmas hit that will be watched again and again.
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51 Comments
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This is my absolute favorite Christmas movie! Here it is the middle of February and I just finished watching it AGAIN!!
As so many other fans have said, every actor in this movie is perfect in their role. I hadn’t known of Rupert Penry-Jones before, but now I believe he is my favorite male actor. His chiseled good looks are captivating. Of course, Danica McKellar continues to play to perfection every role she undertakes. Ellie Botterill is so good, going from her mischievousness in the beginning to the “princess” at the ball.
I truly believe there are no “small” parts in this movie. Some may have more lines than others but each actor plays their part perfectly. All are so believable.
There are quite a few “goofs” in the film, but none distract from the enjoyability of this my favorite Christmas movie.
I do hope there is a sequel in the works. I hope they are in production now. We don’t want Ellie to grow out of her role!!!
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Hey, Katy, I have not heard of anything about a sequel but it would be fun, wouldn’t it? It’s a great movie and I never seem to tire of watching it.
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Loved the movie but I thought that big scarf she was wearing at the end was distracting.
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Great, clean, and very enjoyable family movie. Congratulations to Hallmark! We need a sequel!!
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Ruth, I enjoyed your review tremendously! This has to be one of my favorite movies…EVER! I read the reviews of various movies frequently and don’t think I’ve ever seen as many requests for a sequel to a movie as I’ve seen for this one…and I agree wholeheartedly! The ending of this movie just “begs” for a sequel! We, the fans, deserve to see the happiness of this couple fulfilled! :-). I first watched this movie when it premiered in 2015 and honestly have watched it about 100 times since then! This was my first introduction to Rupert Penry-Jones and I am most impressed! As has been mentioned previously, he is an outstanding actor!! I would definitely love to see him in more movies…Hallmark movies and otherwise! The entire cast is remarkable – Danica (who we all love), Ellie Botterill, Pavel Douglas, Colin McFarlane, Emma Sutton, Amy Marston (yes, Miss Wick) and the rest of the cast! I’ve expressed my desire for a sequel to Hallmark, as have many others so we’ll just wait and see. Again, thanks for the review!
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Helen, thanks for your wonderful comment. And well, you never know. Look at what the fans brought about in a sequel to All of My Heart!
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I watched this movie so many times. Everyone played their role magnificently. I love this movie so much and wish Hallmark would make a serial. It will definitely be successful.
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You’re not the only one to say this Jila. I agree, but sometimes logistics can be difficult. We’ll see what happens.
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I’m hooked on this movie. I’ve watched it a half dozen times on youtube, and the snowball fight is my favorite scene, too.
A sequel would be good because I wondered if Max and Allie had a son would he be the next monarch instead of Theodora, or would the fact that she is the first-born of the king take precedence? And what of Allie’s brother and sister? Would they choose to stay in New York? Also, did Chancelllor Riggs decide to leave or stay?
Such a fun movie! even though I, personally, am opposed to the tradition of Christmas.
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Virginia, thanks for stopping by. That’s interesting. I so appreciate your comments. And I’ll be honest–I’m even more honored that you are opposed to Christmas and still stopped by. Thank you one hundred times over!!
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We love this movie! we definitely would like to see a sequel made please.
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I hope they make a sequel too
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Please make another one,I want to see them get married,and if they have trouble getting married,I t s my favorite Hallmark movie ,and Christmas Card,And The Most Wonderful time of the year,all need a second one, please I have them all on DVD.Sincerely Diane Jones
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When the governess was at the building when leaving (at the end of the movie after she was accused of taking the engagement ring, why was there a plaque on the building that said “City HaLL”?
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While I don’t know for sure, that would probably be something called a continuity error. Those do happen in movies. But since I don’t work for Hallmark nor know any of the cast or crew, I cannot answer for sure. You would have to ask Hallmark.
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This was my favorite HALLMARK Christmas movie. I’d really like to see Rupert Penry-Jones in more HALLMARK movies. I would also like to see Ellie Botterill in more Hallmark movies. Both actors were phenomenal. We MUST SEE THEM AGAIN SOON! Maybe a PART II of this movie is in the works. Loved Emma Burdon-Sutton and Pavel Douglas. All actors were great and let us see them again soon, especially the ones I mentioned. I naturally love Danica Mackellar, and see her often. I’ve watched this movie numerous times and will make it a Christmas favorite. Hallmark is about the only channel I watch. I call it “my feel good channel.” Thank you for the great movies. Keep them coming. I’m addicted, but in a good way!
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Valarie I know what you mean. I’ve heard this same sentiment more than once! Thanks for stopping by
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Ruth, I totally agree with your summarizations of all characters in this movie! I have watched this one movie probably 50-65 times since last November. It is my ALL-TIME favorite! If you have any “pull” with Hallmark, will you PLEASE ASK THEM FOR A SEQUEL TO THIS STORY? I have asked several times on the Hallmark Channel USA FB page but got no response. I truly think Allie’s brother & sister could continue their part in the sequel and that viewers would totally enjoy a sequel as much as I would!!
Some movies “beg” for sequels–and this is one of those!!
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Betsy thank you so much–oh I WISH I had pull with Hallmark, but I’m just a fan like you. I think it would be awesome to have a sequel. Just be sure to ask, and even if there is no response, it doesn’t mean that Hallmark is not listening. One thing I have learned is that Hallmark listens to their fans!
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I have to say I was pleasantly surprise with this movie… I enjoyed it from start t.finish (something very difficult to do to me).The actors were perfectly cast,the actungyof everyone was perfect and on point…I even though (unti I did my research ) that the little girl that playsTheodora was the real daughter of the actor portraying the king,they look so much alike,it’s kind of scary!!! 😏 This one,”Undercover Christmas” and “The Christmas Card” are now my three favorites christmas movies of all times!!
Thanks for the review!
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Beca thank you so much. Very glad to do it!
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This is truly my favorite film of all! Danika is absolutely the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen! Her humility, playfulness and love were mesmerizing! I too would love a sequel. Max was awesome and extremely handsome. I believed his character. Well done Max! The supporting actors were perfect! I would not tire of this if it were shown all year!
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I loved this movie the actors were fantastic. The king wow! My kind of man. I watched this every time it played. Never tired of watching. There was NOT one thing I didn’t like. Loved the whole thing. Need more movies like this.
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First of all, love your name (since we share the same first name), and thank you for stopping by. I am amazed at the response of this film but I totally agree!
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This was the best holiday movie of the season. Like most, I’ve watched this movie 4 or 5 times. I have it saved on my DVR. It would be nice if they did a sequel to this wonderful movie.
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I agree with you completely on that. I hope Hallmark hears our request!
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I am77 years old.what a great movie for the holidays and all year round. I’ve seen it 3 times and will see it over and over again, That’s how much I enjoyed it. Thank You for the moments of pleasure you have given me.
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This has been such a fan favorite so thank you for stopping by! Thank you for the wonderful comment and I hope you had a merry Christmas. Blessings for a wonderful New Year!
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Agreed! Excellent movie and great characters. I would love to see a part two, and wish there had been a few more minutes more with Allie’s siblings joining her at the castle for Christmas in the end.
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It is great that so many want a sequel to this film! Let’s hope it happens!
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I ‘ve watched all Christmas Hallmark movies, this one is my very favorite this year. I would love to see a sequel. It wasn’t overly sappy but very romantic. I found myself pulling for Allie. Thank you, Hallmark for making my Christmas special with the countdown to Christmas movies. I watched them over and over!
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a simply delightful movie. I kept looking to see when it would play again. max and allie were so good.
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I know it played again last night maybe it will this week too??
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I was so delighted by the film and enjoyed watching it with my 9yo daughter. Max tells Allie right before he kisses her “You had me at sewing kit” referencing their very first interaction when she offered him a sewing kit as an apology for running into him with her cart.
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Thank you Jenny. I remember that line now but I couldn’t remember it off the top of my head. Great line!
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I loved this movie. I have watched it numerous times. I have finally bought the movie for a Christmas favorite to enjoy yearly.It was done so well, and all the actors so perfect for their parts Wish there were a part 2.
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Could you understand the last line of Max’s before he kisses Allie at the inn? After more than one viewing, I’m still missing it as the words seem to run together. We enjoyed this movie too. Seeing how their hearts are brought together in spite of obstacles was special. I liked the part where Miss Wick is touched by her portrait gift with her image shown soft and beautiful. The invitation to the ball by the daughter and how that leads to the dance where ultimately their feelings are revealed almost unashamedly were great moments that showed how their unity was beginning to become a reality. The ending leaves you wanting to see more, the wedding, the future, etc.
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Oh Carolyn I’m so sorry–I don’t remember now although I’ve seen the film three times already. I probably did but I’ll try to remember to watch for that scene upon my next viewing.
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“The fact is…you had me at sewing kit”
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Thanks to everyone who filled this in for me. I remember hearing the line but when asked I couldn’t remember. It’s a great line!
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Just read this in its entirety, and as with the movie, enjoyed it. Thank you for such an erudite, tasteful detailing of the film and the characters. Like you, I began to watch the movie, certain it would be too sappy, syrupy, and sentimental, which it almost is. But also like you, the characters or rather the characterizations soon made all the doubts disappear and I’ve now watched it some dozen times, enjoying it every time as much as the first. It will be added to my somewhat massive movie collection as a favorite, for sure, when or if, it is available on DVD, sans commercials. As a side note, the one rather glaring misstep, in my opinion, likely a director’s fault, is the scene in the ballroom when Ellie returns to the dance floor after the dramatic tragic-laden scene in the bedroom with Allie and the King over the missing, now found, ring. She appears, within a second or so, film time, all smiles, grinning ear to ear, as though nothing had just happened. I felt it a very jarring disturbance/discontinuity to the otherwise lovely flow of the film. Oh, I’m a 77 year old retired aviator … crop duster to be exact. Enjoying life very much, thank you. And yep, in my decrepit old age, a sucker for Cinderella stuff!
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Wow thank you so much for the lovely comment. I would have to watch again to see exactly what you’re talking about but yes, no movie is ever perfect. But this one is pretty close. I really appreciate your stopping by.
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