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Cristina Duchesne-Rivera, T.C. Stallings, Vanessa Rodriguez, Julian Simoes, and Britni McNeill in Ordinary Things (2024)

User reviews

Ordinary Things

30 reviews
8/10

A valuable lesson wrapped in a heart-felt story

I think that this film is suitable for all ages and would be a good choice for a family movie-night. You can watch it with your kids, parents, grandparents, and everyone will find something relatable and entertaining in this story. The film opens up with a comforting narration that reveals some history and introduces us to the main characters. The camerawork is beautiful and the acting is warm and sincere.

The plot of this film is somewhat simple and yet quite intriguing. What happens if our prayers get suddenly answered? Well, sometimes it might startle us and leave us with more problems to solve then we expected.
  • tvendor
  • Sep 15, 2024
  • Permalink
8/10

Fun, heart-warming Indie rom-com

Ordinary Things is a fun, light hearted romantic comedy about a woman who fakes a marriage to her best friend for her seemingly dying mother. When she miraculously recovers, they decide to keep up the charade up a little longer to get through the mother and daughter's upcoming joint birthday party. And to further complicate things, the best friend has always been in love with his new fake wife.

The theme of how the "ordinary" things in our life is tends to be what's actually extraordinary certainly comes through here, and it's a powerful message. I recommend this film for anyone looking for a feel-good comedy for the whole family.
  • rsmithline54
  • Sep 5, 2024
  • Permalink
8/10

Inspiring Comedy/Romance

In this charming rom-com/drama, daughter Dannie (Cristina Duchesne-Rivera) fakes her marriage to childhood friend Tyler (Julian Simoes) in order to satisfy her ailing mother's dying wishes. But as with all great comedies, the humor lies in the unexpected twists and reversals. "Ordinary Things" will elevate your mood. It's a reminder of the inspiration that movies can have. Although a few scenes have religious undertones, the real enjoyment comes from watching Dannie's deception unfold in real time, impacting both family and friends with escalating consequences. This is a great family movie that all ages can enjoy. Vanessa Rodriguez as the mother and Britni McNeill as best friend Heather deliver standout performances.
  • SGarrett49612
  • Aug 30, 2024
  • Permalink
7/10

If you dig Hallmark movies.....

  • baccaruda1
  • Sep 12, 2024
  • Permalink
9/10

A fun, sweet story!

  • 7jvh
  • Sep 14, 2024
  • Permalink
7/10

A film with it's heart in the right place.

Ordinary Things is a light hearted, romantic feel-good movie by Director Micah Caronna.

The idea of the film is really good. Dannie (Cristina Duchesne-Rivera) fakes her wedding to her best friend Tyler (Julian Simoes), to please her Mother (Vanessa Rodriguez) as she succumbs to cancer, however she makes a miraculous recovery. Thus how and when does Dannie tell her Mother, that the marriage is fake?

I feel the film is for fans of Something's Gotta Give, Meet The Parents, Wedding Crashers, Dan In Real Life, Little Miss Sunshine and Friends. With that in mind, romantic comedy is the hardest genre and I feel the Director Micah Caronna, Screenwriter Jennifer Tobler, Producers Micah Caronna & Melissa Caronna, along with cast and crew have pulled off a solid, professional and earnest job.

The leads, Cristina Duchesne-Rivera and Julian Simoes are a believable on-screen couple, with an ensemble supporting cast.

However, I wish the film played more with the suspense of how and when the mother discovers the wedding is fake. I feel there is a lot of awkward, cute and endearing comedy that could have been attempted.

Second I felt the movie needed a little spark at points. A wacky uncle, a wild sister or a mischievous pet. Just something to give the film an injection of pace to the narrative.

That said the film is well lit and professionally shot by cinematographer Paula Mandarino. Further the colour grade (Colby Robison) is nice on the eye. The film has lovely locations (April Sneed), good costumes (Sarah Hicks), solid editing (Jarod O'Flaherty), good camera movement (Matthew McCoskey, Jessica Baker, Jason Avila, Ashley Anglade, Josiah Dockery, Carmen Shird and Charlotte Tobler) and good sound (Jamie Tobler, Asher Angled, Angled, Shelia Brown, Mayra Rodriquez and Alan Watkins). This is a professionally made movie.

For those who want a film, with it's heart in the right place, then Ordinary Things might just be for you.
  • garsoneric
  • Sep 2, 2024
  • Permalink
2/10

Forget the great reviews

  • topcat1708
  • Sep 20, 2024
  • Permalink
8/10

A Faith Based Film Actually Worth Watching!

A fun concept with a great message! Sometimes what you want in life isn't what you need. When Dannie, played by Christina Duchesne-Rivera, fakes a wedding to satisfy her dying mom's last wish you can't help but wait for the antics to ensue after she is miraculously healed! The relationship between Dannie and Tyler, Julian Simones, starts out a bit rough but by the end you are rooting for them.

Most faith based films are filled with bad acting and over the top messages, but director Micah Caronna finds a balance of heart, humor and message. If you're in the market for a family friendly film, then look no further!
  • thechicklife
  • Sep 6, 2024
  • Permalink
10/10

Very sweet movie.

"Ordinary Things" is a delightful film that effortlessly blends sweetness, romance, and humor. The story is refreshingly original, capturing the essence of everyday moments with a unique twist. The actors deliver heartfelt performances, bringing depth and charm to their characters. The director's vision shines through, creating a seamless narrative that keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. The film's ability to evoke both laughter and tears is a testament to its well-crafted script and talented cast. Overall, "Ordinary Things" is a must-watch for anyone seeking a feel-good movie experience. Congrats to the entire team for a job well done!
  • joss-79529
  • Sep 1, 2024
  • Permalink
8/10

Sweet Fun Film with Positive Message

A deceit leads to unexpected twists and the characters are stuck whether to continue the charade or tell the truth, both paths having their pluses and minuses. This comedic premise leads to twists and turns and, ultimately, a satisfying ending. Director Micah Coronna and writer Jennifer Tobler keeps the story on the engaging central characters so that you're rooting for them. The story works because the performances sell the premise with a warmth towards their characters, not disdain. Playing the two leads, Christine Duschesne-Rivera and Julian Simoes share a familiar back-an-forth as if they've been friends for years, just like their characters. Vanessa Rodgers is both good-natured and suspicious as the mom / mother-in-law. It's great seeing a film where the characters support and love each other despite the central deceit that drives the story, albeit done for a noble reason. The sweet and engaging performances carry this film to a rewarding conclusion.
  • photo-859-401631
  • Aug 31, 2024
  • Permalink
10/10

A genuinely sweet romantic comedy

In a world where everything is so cynical it was nice to watch something sweet. With a plot based around a fake marriage you would think that the film might not have a great heart.

However the film never forgets what it wants to be and because of that it never overstays its welcome.

There is a strong religious theme throughout the film as is understandable considering the production company is related to a church in Wake Forest. However having watched it with someone who isn't religious they didn't find the themes jarring and they are more to do with loving each other.

Recommended if you would like a nice romantic film where you can root for the characters.
  • richardwhittakerpjp
  • Aug 31, 2024
  • Permalink
8/10

A gem of a film

I'm going to be quite candid. This is not the typical sort of movie I rent. However, I came upon it, read the storyline, watched the trailer and thought, why not. Boy am I glad I took a leap of faith. What a true delight of a movie. It hit me right in the heart and it contained humor at the same time. The movie was very touching but not over the top. I loved the actors. They were all so good and believable. The hospice care hit home for I went through that with my dad so it was all so relatable and this area was done so well. I loved the story! It was very well written. I enjoyed the pacing of the movie. My hats off to Director Micah Carona. There were no flat spots for me. The film moved along at a very nice pace. So for this little gem of a film it's a big thumb's up!
  • craigahrens
  • Sep 11, 2024
  • Permalink
9/10

A positive message

What a sweet fun movie. This film is like a warm blanket. You know where it's going to go but there's a comfort in that.

Ordinary Things starring Cristina Duchesne-Rivera as Dannie fakes her wedding with her childhood best friend Tyler played by Julian Simoes to please her mom's dying wish. However her mother played by Vanessa Rodriguez has a full recovery and the fake couple have to keep up the charade but plan on telling her the truth at a much anticipated birthday party.

This is a Christian film and even though I'm agnostic I really liked the positive message this film has because it's about finding your true love and relationships which is universal no matter your personal beliefs.

I personally love Hallmark films which is the vibe this has. Nothing too controversial and you end up rooting for the couple to stay together despite the road blocks they encounter when the truth comes out. That's the magic of this film.
  • cwells-575-680347
  • Sep 9, 2024
  • Permalink
8/10

Faith, (small) Lies and Friendship

Such a cute film! Friends since childhood Tyler and Dannie hatch a fake wedding plan to help her dying Mom. What could possibly go wrong?! This was a well packaged story with an easy to follow story and thankfully without a plethora of hard to follow side characters. The real magic of the film was in the two lead characters' playful interaction with each other as they navigate the effect of well intentioned lies and the natural consequences. The added aspect of faith in the story and God's promise to be with his people always (regardless of the good or bad outcomes) is a central theme and the characters had to simply step out in faith. Overall a delightful rom com with a difference and a positive message of redemption.
  • dannycrossman
  • Oct 14, 2024
  • Permalink
10/10

Adorable and Wholesome RomCom for the Whole Family!

I feel like so many of the "critically acclaimed" romcoms out there are bogged down with so much junk, and the hallmark or faith based films barely have any story. Well Ordinary Things not only has all the cute rom com couple stuff without any junk, but the story is well written and engaging! Tons of people struggle to find movies like this one. Ordinary Things is the type of movie that you can watch and giggle to with your girlfriends, but it's also appropriate to watch with the whole family (your kids will think it's hilarious)! If you're a fan of rom coms, but have been struggling to find something that doesn't hurt your morals, you won't regret checking out Ordinary Things.
  • connectrachelfilms
  • Aug 15, 2024
  • Permalink
9/10

A Heartwarming Tale of Love, Growth, and Second Chances

"Ordinary Things," directed by Micah Caronna and written by Jennifer Tobler, is a refreshing romantic dramedy that beautifully captures the complexities of life, love, and self-discovery.

The story follows Dannie, a lovable yet indecisive protagonist, as she navigates an unconventional journey of faking a wedding to comfort her terminally ill mother. The narrative takes an unexpected turn when her mother miraculously recovers, leaving Dannie to wrestle with the truth and her growing feelings for Tyler, her childhood best friend. This charming premise is skillfully brought to life with humor, heart, and just the right amount of emotional depth.

The chemistry between the leads is undeniable, making their transition from friends to something more feel natural and genuine. The film's blend of lighthearted moments and poignant family drama strikes a perfect balance, leaving audiences both laughing and tearing up.

Caronna's direction ensures the pacing never drags, and the script by Tobler is filled with witty dialogue and relatable character arcs. The themes of authenticity, vulnerability, and embracing life's "ordinary" moments resonate deeply and will linger long after the credits roll.

If you're looking for a feel-good movie with a unique twist on the romantic comedy genre, "Ordinary Things" is a must-watch. It's a gentle reminder that sometimes, the most extraordinary stories come from the simplest decisions.
  • ethan_minsker
  • Nov 24, 2024
  • Permalink
9/10

The performances brought a genuine warmth that lingered long after the credits rolled.

Ordinary Things is a charming and heartwarming film that beautifully captures the complexities of family and friendship. The story revolves around Dannie, who stages a wedding with her childhood friend to fulfill her mother's last wish. When her mother miraculously recovers, Dannie faces an unexpected twist in her journey. With relatable characters and a touching narrative, this film resonates with audiences, offering a feel-good experience that's both uplifting and emotionally engaging. The story's blend of humor and sincerity left me smiling, and the performances brought a genuine warmth that lingered long after the credits rolled.
  • mettlesetdesigner
  • Aug 31, 2024
  • Permalink
8/10

Sweet and engaging movie

Ordinary Things is a sweet movie, beautifully shot. It starts out as a comic farce but takes twists and turns that venture into more complicated emotional territory. The story takes twists that are quite unexpected, keeping the viewer engaged and invested.

The use of music here is noteworthy. It's very easy, especially in indie film with its constraints, to use music that feels too heavy or inorganic. Yet all use of music here feels perfectly well earned.

The editing is also of note. The pacing is excellent, keeping the film feeling tight throughout. Therefore, the length feels earned - never too long.

"Ordinary Things" is a cute indie that would be a great movie-night choice. Definitely recommended.
  • thesnarkascending
  • Sep 25, 2024
  • Permalink
10/10

I love faith films :)

I just watched the movie ORDINARY THINGS.

The movie has a lot of strong scenes that I enjoyed watching and were also quite comical.

The movie is directed by Micah Caronna and written by Jennifer Tobler. Lead actors I enjoyed watching were Christina Duchesne-Rivera playing Dannie and TC Stalings playing the character of Nate and Julian Simoes playing Tyler.

This faith based movie keeps you thinking deeply and has a good thought provoking uplifting spiritual message. Delightful, warm, engaging.

The movie has very good dialogue and drama and good scenes. It was also shot in a very good way with many cool scenes to see and experience. The production value is quite high! The storyline pulls you in many directions as you're watching this movie. I think the movie is appropriate for all ages to watch. I also thought the lead actors had great onscreen chemistry- they were great together. The sets are great for an indie movie. I look forward to what this director and filmmaker can achieve in his upcoming bright career! Check this movie out! You'll remember it!
  • travisgrenke
  • Feb 11, 2025
  • Permalink
9/10

Heartwarming Tale of Love, Friendship, and Unexpected Twists

Ordinary Things is a brilliant and emotionally resonant film that explores the complexities of love, friendship, and the lengths we go to for family. The story follows Dannie, a lovable and optimistic lead, who agrees to fake a wedding with her childhood best friend to fulfill her mother's dying wish. What begins as a seemingly innocent charade quickly evolves into a captivating journey filled with humor, heartache, and surprising twists, especially when her mother miraculously recovers.

The performances are sincere and engaging, with the cast bringing depth and authenticity to their roles. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, making their friendship and the resulting dilemma both believable and compelling. The film's pacing keeps you invested from start to finish, blending moments of laughter with heartfelt emotion.

*Ordinary Things* is more than just a romantic comedy-it's a touching exploration of how the most unexpected situations can lead us to question what we truly want in life. This film is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys stories that challenge the ordinary and remind us of the extraordinary power of love and friendship. Highly recommended!
  • bazblackpiercing
  • Sep 1, 2024
  • Permalink
9/10

Ordinary Things: A Charming Tale of Love and Laughter

"Ordinary Things" presents a delightful and heartwarming conflict that is both humorous and touching. The film centers around a mother in hospice care, who is not expected to live much longer. In a bid to fulfill her dying wish, her daughter and her daughter's partner stage a fake wedding to give her peace in her final days. But in an unexpected twist of fate, the mother miraculously recovers and is discharged from hospice.

Now, the newly "married" couple is faced with maintaining their charade as the mother returns home. What follows is a series of comedic hijinks as the couple, who were only pretending for the sake of the mother, start to wonder if they might actually be falling in love. The film explores the idea of how relationships can be discovered in the most unexpected circumstances.

"Ordinary Things" is a charming feel-good movie that would be right at home on the Hallmark Channel. With its mix of humor, romance, and tender moments, it's a delightful watch that reminds us of the extraordinary joys that can come from life's most ordinary moments.
  • BigHarvey
  • Sep 3, 2024
  • Permalink
8/10

Nothing ordinary about this well written comedy

Dannie played by( Cristina Duchesne-Rivera) is a directionless single woman in her mid 20's navigating life the best she can and helping to take care of her mother Elene (Vanessa Rodriugez) who is in hospital on her deathbed suffering from terminal cancer. Seemingly incapable of comitting to anyone or anything Dannie takes drastic measures In order to fulfill her mothers dying wish orchestrates a wedding with her life long best friend Tyler (Julian Simoes).

When Elena miracously recovers from cancer and moves back into her house Dannie and Tyler finds themselves in a web of increasingly unmanagable lies and compromised feelings.

I'll admit this genre isnt usually my cup of tea but i enjoyed this romantic comedy.

The fast paced dialogue reminded me of comedies of the early 2000s like Something About Mary.

In conclusion Ordinary Things is an engaging film with relatable characters that proudly wears its heart on its sleeve.
  • andrewwalshfilms
  • Aug 31, 2024
  • Permalink
9/10

A Refreshing Take on Love, Lies, and Life's Curveballs

Ordinary Things takes a familiar rom-com setup-friends faking a relationship-and twists it into something heartfelt and unexpectedly layered. What starts as a sweet deception to comfort a dying mother turns into a tangled mess when she makes a miraculous recovery, forcing Dannie (Cristina Duchesne-Rivera) to face a truth she never saw coming: maybe the lie wasn't a lie at all.

What makes the film work is how effortlessly it balances humor and sincerity. The chemistry between Duchesne-Rivera and Julian Simoes (Tyler) is never forced, making their shift from childhood best friends to something more feel earned. The comedy lands without trying too hard, and the emotional beats hit just right, avoiding over-the-top melodrama.

Director Micah Caronna keeps the pacing tight, ensuring the film never overstays its welcome, while Jennifer Tobler's script infuses the characters with warmth and authenticity. Vanessa Rodriguez also deserves a mention as Dannie's mother, adding both heart and humor to the mix.

At its core, Ordinary Things is about love in all its messy, complicated forms-romantic, familial, and even self-love. It's not trying to reinvent the genre, but it doesn't have to. It's simply a well-executed feel-good film that reminds us that sometimes, the best things in life aren't planned.
  • theamazin
  • Feb 11, 2025
  • Permalink
8/10

Sweet and gentle faith-based romcom

Ordinary Things is a perfectly effective and charming romcom with appealing performances and some good, solid laughs. The faith aspect is handled in such a way that unbelievers like myself won't feel too alienated, and the dynamics of the plot keep moving briskly along and ensure that the audience is never less than entertained.

Sweet and well-judged central performances keep everything on track even when the mechanics of the plot require some serious suspension of disbelief, and you'd have to be a particularly sour kind of viewer to take against the movie. It might be worth giving the trailer a skip and going in cold; knowing the details of the premise ahead of time might take some of the sparkle off the first act.

It's a warm cup of cocoa in movie form.
  • pat-669
  • Oct 26, 2024
  • Permalink
10/10

Relatable, Fun

I recently watched Ordinary Things, and I have to say, this film truly stood out. It's a charming and heartfelt experience, effortlessly blending humor with genuine emotion. The writing is sharp and relatable, making it easy for viewers to connect with the characters and their stories.

The acting is commendable, with performances that feel authentic and engaging. Each character is brought to life in a way that makes you care about their journey, even as they navigate the "ordinary" things in life. The direction is spot on, capturing both the lighter, fun moments and the deeper, more touching ones with equal finesse.

In a world full of complex plots and high-stakes dramas, Ordinary Things is a refreshing reminder that sometimes, the simplest stories can be the most impactful. It's a film that leaves you smiling, with a warm feeling in your heart. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a well-crafted, enjoyable movie that speaks to the everyday experiences we all share.
  • kenyacagle-35408
  • Sep 5, 2024
  • Permalink

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