Hallmark Channel Premiere | November 30, 2019
In this movie, Angela is an American tour guide in Rome who gets fired for putting her own personal flair on tours. Thankfully, she meets Oliver, an American businessman who needs her to help him navigate Rome and its cultural differences. After a successful business lunch in which Angela prevents Oliver from a faux pas or two, he asks,"What if I hired you to be my tour guide for the week?" And with that, we have Pretty Woman meets Christmas (family-friendly version), and I'm sold.
I like the fact that this movie feels authentic and is shot on location in Rome instead of on some studio parking lot made to look like Rome. I also like the premise of the movie and the plot that draws our leading lady and man together. And as far as I'm concerned, Lacey Chabert can do no wrong.
However, I would be remiss if I didn't mention two things that are bothering me. First, there are a lot of broken engagements in the Hallmark world. I understand the need for this plot-wise, but it is kind of sad. Second, Hallmark creates a lot of orphans, and I'm wondering what the dead parents really add to the plot. For a network that is supposed to bring holiday cheer and happiness, this is perhaps a flaw in the formula.
Hallmark gets an A on: Rome at Christmas; filming on location in Rome; Pantheon/Parthenon moment; Lacey Chabert; Luigi; Colosseum in gingerbread; Vespa ride; cute date; the Christmas ornament gift; teaching me that Spaghetti and meatballs are not actually Italian
Hallmark gets a D on: getting a little bit slow in the middle; the green screen for the Vatican City scene at the end
Grade: B+
* Note Grading Scale:
A = This is seriously a good movie. It will remain on my DVR for the season.
B = Totally exceeded my expectations. I'm happy to recommend.
C = This is an average Hallmark movie. Good holiday fun.
D = I'm disappointed... but I watched it. Why not?
F = I actually had a hard time getting through this one. And that says a lot.
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