To Barcelona, with Love

I have loved both female leads in many previous Hallmark movies. But it is time for these two to move into different roles, unless the plot actually supports their ages. Both are within spitting distance of turning 50, yet these characters are supposed to be in their early to mid 30's. They just do not work in these types of roles anymore.

When AW was in her late 30's playing characters in their early 30's, it was believable. But now, the plastic surgery and over the top happy shiny manic behavior just doesn't work. The added distraction of terrible hair just makes this a tough sell.

The same goes for AS, who, while not as overboard in her acting, at 49, is just too old for this role. There is a conversation of wanting marriage and a family, part of which is not going to happen at 49 and 47.

Hallmark's loud background music has also become a horrible part of their movies now. Why?

To Barcelona, With Love is easily one of the best Hallmark movies of the year - and I say that as someone who watches a lot of them. The true standout here is the dynamic pairing of Ashley Williams and Alison Sweeney, two top-tier actresses who share the screen beautifully. Their chemistry is warm and effortless.

I've seen some comments calling out their age or their quirks - and honestly, that's missing the point entirely. These are accomplished women playing layered, funny, and yes, occasionally awkward characters in a way that feels authentic and earned. It's rare (and deeply appreciated) to see a Hallmark movie that allows its characters to be both vulnerable and vibrant without leaning on tired tropes.

The writing is another high point. It's smart, timely, and genuinely funny - balancing the scenic escapism of Barcelona with relatable emotional beats about friendship, purpose, and unexpected love. I found myself laughing out loud in moments and fully invested in the characters' journeys.

If you're tired of formulaic love stories and want something with a little more heart and humor, To Barcelona, With Love delivers. Looking forward to the second part!

After a long week and my daughter in bed, it was nice to just lay back, have a snack and watch this sweet comforting movie. It was the same feeling I got when I watched Vicky Christina Barcelona. I want to go to Barcelona, drink wine, discover hidden places, and eat delicious food off the beaten path all the while doing it with a friend. I think both actresses are so genuine together. To be honest, I could watch this movie without the men and just pretend I'm on a girls trip with Ashley and Alison. I read some of the reviews prior to writing this and I have to say what world are we living in that women in their forties can't go and rediscover themselves all the while accusing them of having too much plastic surgery. Both women are adorable and look great, and frankly being a woman in my forties I don't need to watch a 20 year old find themselves in a romantic city in order for it be believable. Elizabeth Gilbert wasn't in her twenties when she traveled the world on her book advance for writing Eat, Pray, Love and that sold 30 million copies! Go watch this sweet feel good movie and ignore the haters.

About 4 or 5 years ago there was an enjoyable movie "Book of Love" with the same premise as this one. The difference is... that first movie was original and fun. This remake/ripoff of that movie was just plain painful. We like the two leading actresses and they have made many enjoyable movies with Hallmark, but not this one. We were, in fact, able to watch the first fifteen minutes or so, and scan to the last fifteen minutes of the movie and by scanning over the middle, we missed absolutely nothing. What a shame. Also, there was very little of Barcelona in the movie and most of it just looked like it was done on a studio sound lot. Too bad. This could and should have been fun and not painful.

6.7 stars.

This appears on the surface to be about an American woman named Erica (Sweeney) who is a translator of English novels into Spanish. She takes liberties in her work, which she isn't necessarily supposed to do; but since she is anonymous and bound by an NDA, it's permissible.

She has been living in Barcelona for about ten years and is obviously infatuated with a Spanish man named Nico. He owns a bookstore in the city. One particular novel she has translated was written by a woman named Anna (Williams). Nico and the rest of the city love the novel, not realizing that they actually love Erica's translation, not the original.

Anna has come to Barcelona to help publicize her novel at Nico's bookstore, and the rest of the story is about how both women are falling for Nico. There is also some drama surrounding the novel and how Erica's Spanish version captures the essence of the story much better than the original English version.

There is more to the story, about how both women learn from each other, because Anna lacks direction and Erica needs courage. And there is the romance (or lack thereof). Who will get the guy?

I'd like to say this is a poignant and romantic adventure, but it doesn't quite arrive at its intended destination. A lot is missing, and I feel it's a bit too silly and lacks soul. Honestly, I'm not sure what is absent, but something just isn't right. It's probably a lack of chemistry all around and I wasn't touched. I don't plan on seeing this again.