Pearl in Paradise

The biggest attraction in seeing 'Pearl in Paradise' was the two leads. Jill Wagner and Kristoffer Polaha have been near consistently worth watching, with much of the work of both in terms of performances being good and more (Wagner being more familiar to me). Most of the films of both are at least watchable too. The 2018 Summer Nights seasonal block was one of the more consistent seasonal blocks for that year for Hallmark, in a good way. Not all worked, with 'Love on Safari' underwhelming but most did work.

'Pearl in Paradise' was absolutely one of the ones that worked. With it being a contender for the best 2018 Summer Nights Hallmark films, as well as up there as one of the better 2018 Hallmark films. Those not as familiar with Wagner or Polaha in the way they are with other Hallmark regulars and want to see why they are popular should see this, as it is a good representation of what is appealing about them. 'Pearl in Paradise' is no masterpiece, but after seeing some Hallmark disappointments in the past few months it is something of a refreshment.

Starting with what doesn't quite work, 'Pearl in Paradise' is a little too pat at the end (which is not uncommon with Hallmark actually, it is actually one of its most frequent issues).

Also thought that some of the supporting acting wasn't quite there, especially for the travel agent.

Wagner and Polaha however are both incredibly winning and command their roles with ease. Wagner gives energy and nuance without over-egging or phoning in, also appreciated that her character wasn't too idealistic while also not having flaws exaggerated which this reviewer had been seeing a lot recently with her Hallmark viewings. Polaha charms the socks off and subtlety and easy going-ness without being too relaxed. The chemistry between the two is just lovely, subtle but witty and not too low key. The characters are mostly well written, apart from the annoying travel agent, we've seen the cliches before but they are cliches that don't feel too overworked and a good deal is done making them rootable.

It looks good, with absolutely magical scenery. The music isn't too loud or too constant, like it is too often with Hallmark. The direction is solid without doing anything showy, nor was there any need to do that. The script is light hearted and flows naturally, and while the story is not innovative there is a lot of warmth and charm, it isn't played too seriously while also treating the material respectfully.

Overall, very well done. 8/10.

I read the reviews before watching the movie and there are always good reviews and bad reviews for these types of movie. This is afterall a Hallmark movie, which I like watching to escape reality for a while, not because they are Oscar winning stories.

I don't know if the reviews were from people involved in the movie or what, but take it from someone who has seen over 100+ of these movies: I actually believe this is above average.

The contrast between both leads was great: he is organized, afraid of new things, adventure and she is the total opposite: after spending time together they get the other's habits (like the packing their clothes thing) and I think it's beautiful. They added some depth to the characters.

They obviously had amazing chemistry and I was surprised by part of the outcome of the plot, which I didn't see coming. Thank you Hallmark, for surprising me every once in a while. I don't know if they actually recorded in Fiji but the scenery was breathtaking. That's an adventure I wouldn't mind going on.

I love all of the movies Jill Wagner and Kristoffer Paulou are in. Pairing them together was Awesome. One of my favorites.

This was a cute story with good chemistry between the actors. I liked it, despite the undeniable copycat ending that was too obviously close to another great classic romantic comedy that I love...did anyone else catch it?

I love hallmark movies. Some are cheesy, most are predictable, but they all have love and positivity, which we need these days. This movie was a little different than the others. The leads had definite chemistry, so much so that they now have a mystery series with hallmark, Mystery 101. The location was breathtaking. The cast in Fiji was fantastic- truly wonderful. And the ending had a lovely twist. I only watch some hallmark movies once, but there are a few gems I'll watch over and over. This is one of the gems!