The premise did intrigue me, it was a relatively different scenario and something that is still relevant today though was a bit worried at how it would be handled (hoping it would be tactful and insightful but worried about it being forced and mean spirited). Have seen Sam Page in other Hallmark films and have mostly quite liked him, though it is dependent on the character. Seeing the always worth watching Kimberly Sustad in a supporting role was another interest point.
'All Things Valentine' was mostly a winner. It doesn't execute its subject perfectly and isn't a great film, but it also handled the setting better than expected and has a lot of good things. It is easily one of the better 2016 Countdown to Valentine's Day Hallmark films, and so much better than the previous 2016 Countdown to Valentine's Day film 'Dater's Handbook' (which didn't work, with the lead actress being a large part of the problem). If asked whether 'All Things Valentine' is recommended, the answer is yes.
It isn't perfect. Did find the trolling/sparring rather forced and at times cruel, which did make the ending not ring true because it (like too many Hallmark films) too neat.
Did think too that the friend and bakery employee subplot was cheesy, namely the dialogue, and felt shoehorned in.
However, a lot is good. Sarah Rafferty is a very charming leading lady and despite having the less likeable character Page is easy going. The two do have strong chemistry, that is both witty and sweet with no signs of trying too hard or static-ness. Sustad is zesty and easy to endear to in her role. Did appreciate that the characters didn't have exaggerated character flaws (refreshing after seeing Hallmark films lately that have had that badly unbalance things) and were also not too perfect, also that when Page's character is expected to learn from his mistakes he actually does (something that too many Hallmark films don't do, or at convincingly).
Furthermore, it pleases visually. It is beautifully photographed and can't say anything bad about the scenery. The music at least fits and doesn't feel as overbearing, over constant or repetitive as some Hallmark scores can be. The script is the right amount of light hearted and heart-warming, with some non-mushy serious moments and a conflict that was relatable and relevant. Did like that it made the point of a person in real life can often be different from their online persona and in a way that wasn't heavy-handed, it's also true. The story is rarely dull and it has a warm heart and light hearted charm.
Overall, well worth watching. 7/10.
