A Greek Recipe for Romance

6.9 stars.

What makes this film stand out? That's the question, considering how many seem interchangeable, particularly those set in Italy, Greece, and France-the romantic Mediterranean countries blending Western and Near Eastern cultures. These movies typically share common elements: food, music, culture, an American protagonist, and a charming foreign love interest. While you can mix these ingredients differently, the films in this collection often feel too alike to offer a unique or captivating experience beyond their familiar entertainment value. It lacks the excitement or novelty to truly refresh. I crave something more daring-not Spain, Italy, Greece, or Paris, nor some fictional Anglo-inspired realm. How about the Middle East, or even Turkey? Imagine sending one of our beloved Hallmark stars to Constantinople or a similarly exotic locale. It's time to embrace a bold change and explore new horizons.

This storyline feels all too familiar-a tale of an American woman in Greece who encounters a somewhat aloof billionaire's son, determined to conceal his privileged background. Intrigued by him, she discovers he's an exceptional Greek cuisine chef, making him the ideal partner to launch a restaurant and boost her career. Yet, his reluctance to reveal his secrets and adapt to the challenges of restaurant ownership presents obstacles. Meanwhile, her character lacks depth beyond their discussions on food, taste, decor, and olive oil. While I appreciate the actress's charm, the lack of dramatic tension leaves this romance feeling unbalanced.

The Passport to Love films this year have been very good - I always say that an on-location Hallmark is better than those where Canadian cities are standing in for more exotic locales - and "A Greek Recipe for Romance" is definitely not the exception to that rule.

Whilst the trope that propels this boy-meets-girl movie isn't exactly an original one, and you know exactly how it is going to end, the stunning Greek scenery and the sparkling performance by Danielle C. Ryan as American Abby, more than makes up for the bland storyline. If Ryan's effort here is anything to go by, Hallmark movies are in safe hands.

I enjoyed, this week's movie in the series, "Passport to Love".

I have never been to Greece, but have always wanted to go. This movie, with the culture, food, and beautiful scenery makes me want to go even more!

The story line is fun and engaging. There may be a few familiar elements, but it is worth the watch. The characters are believable and relatable. The story line is cute and I found myself actually watching the movie and not just having it on for background noise.

Thank you to Hallmark for sharing different cultures with the viewers in this series. This is definitely my favorite thus far!

I have always wanted to go to Greece & this gave me a beautiful, albeit brief, glance at the beautiful country, customs, & culture.

Unfortunately, that's about it. I could barely get past the actress who plays the mom's stiff acting (& how many times can you say, "YANNI"!?) or the fact that the makeup artist made the lead actress' face an entirely different color than her body. The ancillary characters were annoying as well, except for the mom's boyfriend who was fine & sweet.

The lead actor is beyond attractive & a decent performer, so I wouldn't mind seeing him again in some movies. The end.

Last week I enjoyed, "Savoring Paris" and this week's movie in the series, "Passport to Love" was another enjoyable movie.

Although I haven't traveled yet to Greece, the scenery, the food, and the people reminded me of my favorite Greek restaurants over the years. The people are gracious hosts and the food is amazingly delicious. The movie captured the culture that we have experienced in Greek restaurants in the U. S. The leads in this movie were believable. I am thoroughly enjoying seeing the scenery in these Passport films. The conversations that the main characters have seem honest and believable.

Thank you, Hallmark for bringing differing world cultures to us in the U. S. I hope we can travel to Greece someday, but until then this movie has helped bring a bit of Greece to us.