Second Chances

Have seen plenty of good and more Hallmark films and have always made an effort to judge them for what they're meant to be (light hearted, heart-warming escapism). Many have succeeded at this, others have not and are wanting in writing, acting and the way characters are written. Other than completest sake, 'Hearts on Fire' was seen for one primary reason. Which was the talented cast, also have a thing for good concepts but was conflicted on this one, with the best known names being Alison Sweeney and Ed Asner.

2013's 'Hearts on Fire' turned out to be a very nice, heart-warming, entertaining and well meaning film. It's not a masterpiece, but as far as early 2010s Hallmark goes, which was every bit as variable as 2014 onwards, it is one of the better faring efforts. All the cast come off very well, and the story has a lot of charm and heart without taking itself too seriously, a nearly great effort that fell really properly at the final hurdle. It is also much more appealing than the ehh sounding premise suggests.

Maybe it could have gotten going a little quicker.

The ending also felt a little too on the neat and easily foreseeable side.

Everything else is good and more. Sweeney and Greg Vaughan are very likeable in their roles and make their characters come over as real people with flaws (ones not overdone) and strengths in relatable situations. Their chemistry is very sweet and genuine, not moving too fast or feeling too aimless. Views on Asner here seem to be lukewarm, personally thought he was amusing and brought some welcome light-hearted-ness. The whole cast are solid and the interactions never feeling static.

Furthermore, 'Hearts on Fire' looks attractive, especially the scenery and the music doesn't dominate or feel drab. The script is well meaning and takes the subject seriously without being over-serious, while having some light hearted-ness that doesn't come over as too jokey. The story isn't perfect, but is very touching and was easy to relate to while not feeling mawkish or over-serious. The music isn't overused or over-scored, often sensitive.

Concluding, liked it a good deal. 8/10.

Alison Sweeney, single mother of two, has her hours cut back at the emergency call center where she works and decides to rent out a room in her house. Greg Vaughan, a fireman with a broken leg needs such a room -- he can't climb the stairs to his third floor walkup.

Bingo! You know they are going to fall in love, but the way they get there is charming. He does magic and her adorable kids -- who, in response to the home emergency, have gotten themselves jobs reading to people at the local retirement home -- are enchanted.

The only problem I have with this movie is the thought that these two people are unattached at the start of movie. Why haven't they been snapped up by other partners already? The movie is strengthened, as are many of the Hallmark TV movies, by the casting of older but excellent actors in some small roles. Here it's Rance Howard and Ed Asner as two occupants of the retirement home.

This is one of my favorite Hallmark Movies. This is one that you like it so much that you wish Hallmark would make a sequel!!!

a film without surprises. the plot, the problems, the end , the pink sauce - all is well known. but it is not boring, not dusty. and, in few scenes, it becomes almost charming. the secret - first, the Prince Charming represented,in a honest role, by Greg Vaughan. than - the children. and, sure, Ed Asner in a not great but useful role.dramatic and dramatic story of a fireman and a dispatcher, the past, present and future in a impressive combination, the choices and the hesitations, the wise kids and the best choice. a family film who represents another page for life lesson. for Hallmark - a must see. for the others - a not so bad oasis of comfortable entertainment.

Just Rewatched this Wonderful Oldie but Goodie Hallmark Movie. I also read some of the Unbelievable Negative Reviews that a few other viewers have Posted. Quite Honestly I was completely flabbergasted because this is Definitely One of Hallmark's Very Best of All Time. In Fact, in my personal opinion, anyone who didn't enjoy this Touching and Heartwarming Story either doesn't have a Heart .... or simply shouldn't be watching Hallmark Movies Period. Because they obviously will simply never enjoy this type of Beautiful and Wholesome Family Entertainment.

Their loss, however, is a Gain for any Hallmark Viewer that truly enjoys Quality Family Entertainment. The entire cast is amazing, and while the Lead Characters Both deliver outstanding performances, it is truly the Children and Story that are Unbelievably Unique and Totally Amazing.

I have watched Hallmark Movies for years and have while I am a loyal and faithful viewer I have only given very few a 10 Star Rating. I usually restrict those Exceptional High Ratings for Films that I believe to be worthy of a Sequel .... and this Film Certainly Qualifies for that Relatively Rare Honor.

In closing let me address a point that was inferred by a Previous Poster. I am NOT an Elderly Woman that insists on Controlling the TV Remote. But rather a True Film Fanatic that Recognizes and Enjoys Exceptional and Quality Performances and Entertainment.