The Magic of Ordinary Days

There's almost an Edna Ferber type of rural romantic fiber lurking in THE MAGIC OF ORDINARY DAYS, about a pregnant young woman (Keri Russell) whose father arranges a marriage for her with a farmer (Skeet Ulrich), an arrangement which leads very slowly to their mutual love.

It reminds me so much of the sort of tales Ferber would tell, particularly "So Big" which starred Jane Wyman and Sterling Hayden years ago, as a couple who gradually adjust to each other in a strained relationship.

Beautifully photographed in rural settings, it's almost a two-character tale, depending exclusively on the subtle performances of Ulrich and Russell. Both display talent, utterly convincing as the shy newlyweds who have trouble with the new arrangement until they manage to find common ground and mutual respect.

It's a slow moving character study, but worth a look if you like this sort of intimate tale, helped somewhat by the WWII subplot involving Japanese girl neighbors who befriend the wife, but never going too far astray of the central theme of loneliness on the part of two people searching for love.

Summing up: A much better than average Hallmark Hall of Fame TV movie.

This is one of the best, most heartwarming and well acted movies I have seen in a long, long time. I immediately fell in love with all of the characters, especially Ray, portrayed beautifully by Skeet Ulrich. His inflections and mannerisms are superb. Keri Russell has outdone herself as Livy, with her timeless manners and elegant sophistication in handling an awkward situation during an unforgiving era. This is a poignant drama that evokes emotions long since lost in ordinary, mundane television. Congratulations to Hallmark and CBS for providing such outstanding broadcasting, and hats off to Mr. Ulrich...this role is Emmy-Worthy!

I thought this movie was exactly what a hallmark movie should be. Happy, heartwarming, and has a happy ending. I love Skeet and I thought that he played Ray very well as a soft spoken farmer, and Keri was wonderful as the out of place women who finally finds happiness. The time-line makes the idea of an arranged marriage to cover a pregnancy more realistic because of the idea of children being born out of wedlock. I think that using the times, the events of that era, and the ideals that each different family has made this movie into something really sweet. I think that this movie is perfect for a family to watch, and it really is a heartwarming movie.

'The Magic of Ordinary Days' - the phrase itself is so evocative and beautiful! I didn't know anything about this film or the actors, but when I read the title I knew I had to see it! I loved the languorous feel of this film - everything was tranquil and measured as if the people who had invited you into their home wanted you to take your time and internalize it! I also liked the music. It added a lot to the film! The story had depth and the characters were well etched and rendered by both Keri Russell and Skeet Ulrich. Ulrich especially was amazing! He rendered his character with great subtlety, control and grace. Keri Russell was also really good in her role. Both the actors succeeded in evoking empathy and as an audience you really wanted them to be together and not be parted!

Brent Shields has almost become synonymous with Hallmark, he's either produced or directed most of the Hallmark films I've liked! I really appreciate Hallmark for making such films! Amongst all the pretentious films around, they have consistently made small, meaningful and memorable films! I'm glad that they truly believe in their tag line "Where great stories come to life"!

I was very eager to see this film and I wasn't disappointed. This is a great chick flick film, especially for those who love period dramas. It was a wonderful experience to watch 2 people thrust together to find contentment, and then love. Keri Russell and Skeet Ulrich were wonderful as the newly married couple. The only downside to this film was the subplot involving the Japanese interment girls. It took away from the pace of the film. The rest of the supporting cast filled in nicely. There was indeed some magic in this film. Some may argue its to fake for their taste, but I loved the film. Overall it was a wonderful film. I give it 7.5 out of 10 stars! I can't wait till it comes out on DVD!