'Love in Paradise' is the first 2016 Winterfest film and also the first 2016 Hallmark outing. Other than Hallmark film completest sake, the main reason for watching was the two leads. Who have both been good in other things, with more familiarity with Luke Perry. Hallmark's Winterfest films overall have been very variable, same though with all their seasonal blocks every year, and so have their films set on a ranch. Some good, some mediocre at best, some in between.
One of the good ones is 'Love in Paradise'. Which is a very promising way to start off Hallmark's 2016 output and much better than the slightly corny and misleading title (which would be better suited to a Summer Nights film) indicates. It is a contender for the best 2016 Winterfest film, is for me one of the better Winterfest films overall and is one of Hallmark's better efforts for that year. As far as Hallmark's ranch set films go, 'Love in Paradise' is better than most.
It is not perfect. Do agree that the real estate conflict was rather stale and not enough really is done with it.
As is the case with most Hallmark efforts, it is very easy to predict where most plot elements are going to go with it being very faithful to a familiar formula.
There is however a lot to like about 'Love in Paradise'. It is a good looking film visually, regardless of the lack of authenticity/accuracy the scenery is gorgeous and taken full advantage of in the photography. The music has been known to be overdone and intrusive in Hallmark, it is pleasantly festive here. The script is playfully light-hearted and has a good deal of heart without being sentimental.
Furthermore, the story is far from perfect, but it was clear what it was trying to do and wanted to be and it is very charmingly cute and heart-warming. The ending isn't over neat. The characters were ones worth engaging with, with flaws not being overdone while also not being too perfect. Both Emmanuelle Vaugier and Perry are great, particularly Perry who has a lot of charm and great comic timing, and their chemistry is very believable throughout. Both playful and full of heart, while not being rushed or aimless. The supporting cast are solid.
Summing up, very well done. 8/10.
