Hearts in the Game

If you are looking for a comfortable feel-good Hallmark movie that doesn't feel outdated, this is it! Contemporary motives, classic theme, familiar Hallmark style, and decent actors, it delivers on all fronts.

This movie however doesn't have any of the usual troubles so no mistaken identity, undisclosed fiance's, irritating rival colleagues, or big lies. This means that the movie doesn't turn sour 25 minutes before the end, which is actually a refreshing change. Still, the story does provide for the leading characters to work through some personal struggles.

There is also a very humanizing aspect to this movie. The mental health aspect of the baseball player makes this Hallmark movie up-to-date but it isn't dragged out or exagerated more than it needs to be. This keeps the movie light-hearted.

The lead actors are convincing and there is some chemistry between them. I also really enjoyed the assistent character, a real "tell-it-like-it-is" character. She doesn't fit the stereotypical image of femininity but the makers didn't exploit this. Often, the "best friend" character is also the designated gay/queer friend to check the diversity box, which often gives a rather woke vibe. I'm glad the makers didn't do that with this movie.

Overall, this movie is exactly right. It's not top quality, the storyline isn't feature film-worthy, but it's clear that this movie doesn't aspire to be more than it is either; an easy, feel-good tv movie.

I love Erin Cahill. At this writing, if I had to pick one rom/com star who is still active as my favorite it would be Cahill. But her last two efforts have left me disappointed. Christmas Bedtime Stories wasn't her fault, it was all the story. The story put her Danielle in a situation bound to hurt someone. In this movie, the story is again a problem. It has no creativity and is very predictable. The viewer holds on to hope that somehow the backstory mysteries will make it worthwhile, but that didn't happen for me. Meanwhile, Cahill's character Hazel's appeal is mixed. At the beginning, Hazel is a problem solver who never fails. She has the arrogance to go with it. As she and Diego spend time together, Hazel softens. By conflict time, Hazel makes a courageous decision but then becomes a wimp.

There is a secondary story about Hazel and her high school friend. This story has a nice flow but is squeezed in. It wasn't enough to spice up the whole.

Cahill and Marco Grazzini have chemistry but this also wasn't enough to raise the entire production out of the doldrums.

Publicist Hazel Miller (Erin Cahill) promises she can get the big story about a pitcher who froze in the ninth inning of the seventh game of the World Series, but ace pitcher Diego Vasquez (Marco Grazzini) doesn't want to talk. Things are complicated by the fact that they were an item in high school. She wants to advance her career and he wants to play for the Mets, but can they get past his troubles and their unfortunate past?

Hallmark romances often have complications near the end of the story that cast doubt on the future of the romantic relationship. This one is just too obvious. But the chemistry between the stars is strong.

Feel the existing reviews are a bit low, especially when compared to similar Hallmark movies. Sure, it's predictable but actually has some heart. A lot of heart, actually.

• Great casting. The publicists assistant is especially great and very funny. Steals every scene she is in.

• Script was pretty standard fare but exceptionally executed. I would say that the B story between the publicist and her friend was unique and also very realistic.

• The cast really gave their all. There was real chemistry and they wanted to make a good movie.

• Production was also top notch (other than wardrobe). Good use of light, camera angles and music. Especially music. Was soft and minimal. They let the actors create the emotion rather than artificially through manipulative means.

Marco Grazinni is one of my favorite actors. I've been watching him since way back when he started. He just got this presence on screen that ropes you in. I enjoy all his movies, never had anything bad to say about them. He is blessed as an actor in many roles and definitely in my book one to watch. I just pray Hollywood doesn't corrupt him, that he stays true to himself. Cause, anything else is not worth it!

Your wife too Alvina. Stay true to yourselves and enjoy your 👪 family! God bless 🙏 I hear your starting a family with your beautiful wife Alvina, I'm so happy for you both. Its a true blessing. Make every moment count. Always put each other first, do not take time or each other for granted. Always, make time for family! Thats the 2nd most important thing, 1st is God! After all God blessed you both with all you have. Never forget that. God Bless and keep you safe always!