Polar Opposites

This Hallmark story has an endearing cast and features some wonderful photography of South America, sometimes standing in for Antarctica.

Emma (Rhiannon Fish) is an illustrator whose father studies penguins in Antarctica. When he calls her about an emergency, their connection is terminated, so she becomes worried. She immediately hops a plane and tries to find a boat ride into the southern waters. Along the way, she meets an engineer named Andy (Markian Tarasiuk) who is on a mission to the southernmost continent.

The always-wonderful Ms. Fish is surrounded by a strong cast. The story is about more than romancing, and the narrative feels like a real adventure. The most surprising thing about the film is how they managed to capture the story, including animal behaviors, beautiful scenery, and some effects that feel totally natural. It must have been an experience to film.

7.7 stars.

Not necessarily a film I would recommend for multiple viewings, but definitely one you must see once every 5-10 years.

Personally, I really enjoyed it. I like both of the lead actors; they give us their usual quality, and it was entertaining. The adventure is fulfilling as well. The romance is a slow burn, but sometimes it will suffice, as it does in this instance. Would have preferred a bit more of the romantic fire, but there is enough to keep us afloat, so to speak.

The plot is about a woman who is a stowaway on a cruise ship on its way to Antarctica. She is headed there because she is under the impression that her father is in trouble, possibly in danger. He is a scientist who studies penguins.

She meets an engineer on the ship who helps keep her hidden. They have an adventure on the journey, evading the crew. She eventually helps her dad and some penguins.

This movie is the full package, but you must love the lead actors, else you may be disappointed. I love Miss Fish, never been disappointed with any of her performances. She single-handedly elevates everything she does. I feel this would be a 6.7 if not for her presence.

Love when Hallmark leaves Canada to film on location-this time to Patagonia and Ushuaia, Argentina-the gateway city to Antarctica. The cruise and location footage was exceptional.

I won't go into detail about the movie since the first reviewer here(Fire And Ice) did such an excellent job but I will say I stayed with the movie till the end because of the strong cast and interesting chemistry between the two leads, Rhiannon Fish and Markian Tarasuik. There was an ease between them that sold the developing relationship and storyline-farfetched at times.

So I give Polar Opposites a 7 for the lead actors, the scenery and of course, the penguins.

We're supposed to believe this woman 1) gets on a ship; 2) doesn't get caught for 8 days; 3) gets on the Antarctica research base - no questions asked; 4) goes off on her own to find her dad; 5) researcher helps her with all this. I mean ... most Hallmark movies are a "fairy tale" but this one is utterly ridiculous. Come on Hallmark - stop treating us like we're stupid. AND she's walking around in just earmuffs? Please stop making movies that insult our intelligence. I have a couple of friends who actually were stationed in the Antarctica. The Hallmark depiction is just plain stupid. From the internet: "To go outside in Antarctica, you must wear multiple layers of specialized clothing designed for extreme cold, including waterproof outerwear, thermal base layers, and protective gear like gloves, hats, and goggles, and always go with a partner, following safety protocols like checking in with the station before leaving and carrying a radio, as the harsh conditions pose a high risk of frostbite and hypothermia if not properly prepared."

I hope these people aren't dead ... because they certainly should be based on Hallmark ...

Yes, not one of the typical Hallmark movies, girl fresh from break up, mad at world, swears off men, meets nice guy, treats him badly etc etc love at end. Boring. Or old boyfriend comes back, new boy disappointed sulks away, she realizes new boy her soulmate. Little bit better.

This movie is none of that. The scenery is fantastic and different. The polar plunge is a real thing. So the premise of stowaway, and work of the dad a bit loose on reality and detail but remember this is a movie of about 1 hr 45 min, it needs to move along. It is a feel good, appreciate the setting and the engineering feat movie. And you learn about penquins. She meets a person who will help her. He is an engineer, formal not a "player". Friendly chemistry between them. Fish and Tarasiuk are two of my favourite actors. Both matching the character's backgrounds perfectly. Neither character had that buddy "on the phone" to bounce thoughts off of. Each was independent and relied on each other which made the union grow. You should watch, you will enjoy, unless you are one of those who likes the formula Hallmark movies. Definitely worth enjoying Rhiannon Fish and Markian Tarasiuk.