User reviews

Katie (Kellie Martin) is a demure accountant who once dreamed of other life pursuits. This would be becoming a writer. But, alas, this single lady took care of a sick mother many years and didn't make time for anything but job and home. Now, her mother has passed away and Katie has a secret crush on a widower at her church. Meanwhile, most of the town folks in their seaside village grab the newspaper every day to read the local advice column called Dear Viola. As one of Katie's bookkeeping clients is the newspaper publishing firm, she is often at the office. One day it is clear that the talented lady who has penned this lovelorn piece for years is retiring. Here's Katie's chance, perhaps! She secretly authors a sample of her own take on Dear Viola and the editor gives her the job! But, one of the first letters she receives at the paper is obviously from the widower she admires. This man, Russ (Jefferson Brown) loves his young daughter, Meredith, but is wondering how to move forward with his little gal in mind. Katie offers terrific advice, especially on opening up his heart again. Yet, wouldn't you know it, a new blonde comes to town and captures Russ' attention before Katie has a chance to get close to him. Even though its obvious that this woman is not a good match, what will Katie do now? This lovely film has many familiar elements and themes. One is the "mousy" lady in glasses and conservative clothing who is invisible to the man she admires until she changes her appearance. It's tried but still true. Then, too, the secret identity of an advice writer is always fun. Other items to enjoy in this little flick are the cast, which is fine, the coastal setting, the ethnically integrated community, the sweet script and the surefooted direction. Are you longing for a romcom night with tea and cookies? Dear fan, this is a nice choice for your evening's pursuit.

Not the highest budget film, definitely cheesy, but I liked it. Very cute, feel good movie. I easily connected to the characters. It wasn't overly deep, but if you like a sweet romance...you'll find it here.

Not too bad for a Hallmark, though apparently it wasn't that. Kellie was 39 when this was filmed but defying the odds for Hollywood, but she looked 49. I have noticed this before with Kellie. WTH? Can we please get some good lighting or a competant make up person for this poor woman?

Kellie Martin does a good job with her role, but the costume designer for her did a job that didn't do justice for the character which was almost too juvenile for how old she should have been. Dressing like a little girl doesn't endear the audience to her character,, but I found it distracting and confusing. The rest of the cast is wonderful and creative and talented. Not that Kelloe isn't, she wonderful.

The movie is sweet and heartfelt. The justification of her frumpiness is just not well done. Yes, of course like all movies since the 80s there is the makeover scene, but she still feels off, but better.

The cast is wonderful. I like all the supporting people. This was c well cast, a good script, and directed well.

This could have been better. The acting is over-the-top, exaggerated facial expressions and physical movements, sort of...high school stage acting. Sorry that the directing wasn't better.

"Dear Viola" is much better than the typical movie of this genre and production. Immensely enjoyable. All the characters were very good, with solid acting. The story was very heartfelt, endearing, moving, and funny. Kellie Martin was "perfect." She is a terrific and under-rated actress and should be in more movies. loved it. James Welch Henderson, Arkansas 3/16/2021

This is a great film. All levels are tops. Kellie Martin plays a Dear Viola columnist for the newspaper for which she is the accountant. A letter comes in, and he needs advice on moving on after his wife has died. Kellie keeps the town interested with her good advice to him. She knows him and his eight year old daughter, Kira Gelineau, from church. I love the church singing. Jefferson Brown is the dad and does start dating a beauty, but the daughter and she don't hit it off. The daughter runs away, and Kellie and he find her. The ending is so perfect. I love this simple, well told story where everything works, and there is a joy in the actors' acting. I feel they all love the story.

I have liked Kellie Martin since I saw her as Christy. This is a cute film that address some tough issues in a Hallmark style. Her outfits are adorable. I gave it and 8 because the character "Jamie" was a little over the top and kitchy.