I must admit, I was pleasantly surprised with 'A Very Merry Bridesmaid'. There was no time-traveling train, no over-the-top Christmas contest, or no mistaken identity plot device used in this one. Instead, it is a low-key, or rather, a slow-paced romance, a romance with a genuine and authentic feel to it, which makes it stand out among the crowded room of Christmas movies this season. From the grounded script and superb acting to the surprisingly appealing cinematography, it is a nice new edition to Hallmark's 2021 Christmas movie line-up. The story centers on Leah (played by Emily Osment), owner of a shop called Worldly Charm. This Christmas Leah is quite busy. In addition to running her shop and worrying about her father's health, her brother Paul (played by Patch May) is getting married on Christmas Eve at home (and she is a bridesmaid, of course), which happens to be Leah's 30th birthday (yes, she has a Christmas Eve birthday). The good news is that Leah's childhood crush Drew (played by Casey Deidrick) has returned home from abroad to act as the best man in the wedding and sort out his late grandmother's estate. Drew, who is determined to make Leah's 30th birthday special, starts spending time with Leah, helping her with this busy season. Will they develop a romantic connection before Drew leaves town for another adventure and journey abroad? At the heart of this story is the relationship that develops between Drew and Leah. The writers do a splendid job of developing the relationship thru the dialogue and interaction between the two. It feels real, it feels grounded. Given that the story/movie spends a significant amount of time developing this relationship, the viewer can actually watch it develop and grow on-screen, which is something many of the 84 minute Christmas rom-coms/romances lack. This also allows the writers to spend time developing these two characters and their backstories, which makes it easier to engage with the story and connect with the characters. Naturally, what makes this all work on-screen is the acting, which, overall, is very good. Osment has an impressive performance in this one. She brings so much warmth and feeling to the role of Leah. At the same time, she does a brilliant job of capturing Leah's disappointments and acceptance of how things are thru a touch of melancholy in her performance. The combination makes Leah's character quite loveable, I felt. Similarly, Deidrick's portrayal of Drew has a warm, gentle, and caring vibe to it, which is appealing on-screen. The chemistry between the two is very strong. You could feel the emotion and connection between them. Plus, there is a pretty hot and heavy kissing scene, if you had any doubts. Finally, the movie has a nice Christmas feel to it, and there is even a little history/trivia on the Christmas Eve flower, the poinsettia. All in all, 'A Very Merry Bridesmaid' is a warm and sweet Christmas romance with two very charming leads. I highly recommend it for those looking for a bit of (slow-paced) romance this holiday season.
37 Reviews
Nice
Jackbv1235 December 2021
Despite the lost wedding dress, this movie is mostly upbeat. No one is about to lose their job or under pressure to achieve something for a promotion. There are no great highs or lows or tension. As a result, the movie is about the relationships, and it does a pretty good job there.
I thought the chemistry between Emily Osment as Leah and Casey Deidrick as Drew was quiet but good. Also, Emily shines in her unselfishness kindness toward Julia.
There were some nice moments, some sweet and some funny. The reveal moment by the brother Paul to his bride was nicely done. The first presentation at the wedding dinner was a little different and also sweet. The car driving up to the house after the wedding was a cute touch. Some or all of these things may have been predictable, but they were still nice.
All in all, many little things added up to an enjoyable movie. I will probably watch this again when it comes around next year.
I thought the chemistry between Emily Osment as Leah and Casey Deidrick as Drew was quiet but good. Also, Emily shines in her unselfishness kindness toward Julia.
There were some nice moments, some sweet and some funny. The reveal moment by the brother Paul to his bride was nicely done. The first presentation at the wedding dinner was a little different and also sweet. The car driving up to the house after the wedding was a cute touch. Some or all of these things may have been predictable, but they were still nice.
All in all, many little things added up to an enjoyable movie. I will probably watch this again when it comes around next year.
Merry charm
TheLittleSongbird6 March 2023
2021 was very inconsistent for Hallmark, not just their Christmas output but also all their seasonal blockings (the Summer Nights output being particularly so). But the standard could have been a lot worse, especially when they wouldn't have been able to have been made if the pandemic worsened. When the films were good, and there were plenty of those that year (a few of them having some not so appealing premises on paper), they were lovely. When the films missed, and again quite a lot fitted that distinction, they were mediocre or less (the worst terrible).
Quite a lot were also in between. For me, 'A Very Merry Bridesmaid' was one of the better faring 2021 Christmas Hallmark films but somewhere around high middle when it came to their 2021 Hallmark output overall. Really appreciated that it focused a lot on relationships and real life issues, and this is where the film is at its strongest, and wasn't as formulaic as the usual Hallmark Christmas film, though it may be a little too quiet and slow for others and understandably so.
'A Very Merry Bridesmaid' has a lot of good things. The best aspect is the performance of Emily Osment, she's not worked in every film but she more often than not has, and she gives a very deeply felt and charming performance here that never resorts to over-playing or taking it too seriously. After seeing so many female lead characters in Hallmark and Lifetime films where they are really difficult to get behind and have their negative characteristics taken to extremes, it was really appreciated that her character here was likeable and identifiable. She has a subtle yet genuine chemistry (one that actually grows and realistically) with equally charming and sympathetic Casey Deidrick, am not as familiar with him but he impressed me enough to be interested in seeing more of his work.
The supporting cast all give solid well grounded performances and the characters feel more real and easier to relate to than what is usually seen with Hallmark. It is attractive visually, shot with a slick look and with lovely scenery. The music doesn't intrude and isn't over-scored or used too much, while not having any memorable themes. The writing is mature and well meaning, it could have done with a lighter edge at times but it flows well and isn't heavy or schmaltzy. The story is very warm and heart-warming with serious subjects dealt with honestly, the relationships explored well fleshed out and with heart.
It is not a perfect film by all means. Did think that it was too over deliberate later on and could have afforded to let itself go more and have more light-hearted moments, the material being taken a little too seriously at times.
Did think too that the final act did lack tension and was on the too polite side, culminating in a touching and more creative than usual but still slightly too neat and not too hard to figure out ending.
Otherwise, liked it quite a lot. 7/10.
Quite a lot were also in between. For me, 'A Very Merry Bridesmaid' was one of the better faring 2021 Christmas Hallmark films but somewhere around high middle when it came to their 2021 Hallmark output overall. Really appreciated that it focused a lot on relationships and real life issues, and this is where the film is at its strongest, and wasn't as formulaic as the usual Hallmark Christmas film, though it may be a little too quiet and slow for others and understandably so.
'A Very Merry Bridesmaid' has a lot of good things. The best aspect is the performance of Emily Osment, she's not worked in every film but she more often than not has, and she gives a very deeply felt and charming performance here that never resorts to over-playing or taking it too seriously. After seeing so many female lead characters in Hallmark and Lifetime films where they are really difficult to get behind and have their negative characteristics taken to extremes, it was really appreciated that her character here was likeable and identifiable. She has a subtle yet genuine chemistry (one that actually grows and realistically) with equally charming and sympathetic Casey Deidrick, am not as familiar with him but he impressed me enough to be interested in seeing more of his work.
The supporting cast all give solid well grounded performances and the characters feel more real and easier to relate to than what is usually seen with Hallmark. It is attractive visually, shot with a slick look and with lovely scenery. The music doesn't intrude and isn't over-scored or used too much, while not having any memorable themes. The writing is mature and well meaning, it could have done with a lighter edge at times but it flows well and isn't heavy or schmaltzy. The story is very warm and heart-warming with serious subjects dealt with honestly, the relationships explored well fleshed out and with heart.
It is not a perfect film by all means. Did think that it was too over deliberate later on and could have afforded to let itself go more and have more light-hearted moments, the material being taken a little too seriously at times.
Did think too that the final act did lack tension and was on the too polite side, culminating in a touching and more creative than usual but still slightly too neat and not too hard to figure out ending.
Otherwise, liked it quite a lot. 7/10.
sweet Hallmark movie
SnoopyStyle5 December 2021
Leah Taylor (Emily Osment)'s birthday is Christmas Eve. For this year, it's her 30th and it's also her brother Paul's wedding. Her childhood neighbor and crush Drew Vaughn (Casey Deidrick) is back in town as the best man and more importantly for him, her birthday. The wedding plans get changed and Leah's birthday takes a backseat. It's often the case that her dreams take a backseat like traveling the world.
Emily is adorably cute and this is a very sweet couple. It has all the elements of a Hallmark Christmas romance and not much more. This is perfectly fine and probably better than most.
Emily is adorably cute and this is a very sweet couple. It has all the elements of a Hallmark Christmas romance and not much more. This is perfectly fine and probably better than most.
Love a December wedding!
Ekm82851110 July 2022
A December wedding! I can relate to that as a December bride myself almost 14 years ago later this month. I loved this movie because of the excellent chemistry between Emily Osment (she comes across so real and down to earth) and Casey Deidrick (more of him on Hallmark, please!). They just clicked in this movie and I enjoyed the pairing from start to finish.
Low-key, but it's nice.
rebekahrox5 December 2021
Leah's "milestone" 30th birthday is coming up on Christmas Eve, the same day her brother is getting married. She is a little down because she thought that by now, she would have made more of a success of her life like the rest of her family. In particular she has never acted on her life long dream of travel. In addition, she has a feeling that her family is going to forget this most important birthday because of all of the excitement over her brothers wedding. Holy Molly Ringwald in Sweet Sixteen!
When she confides in her childhood friend and former crush, Drew, who is also visiting town, he decides to do something special with her almost daily to help her celebrate. In the background we learn that the reason why she hasn't done more with her life is that she is afraid to leave her Dad, who has had a few health scares. The airline has lost her brother's fiance's wedding dress, sending it to all the wrong destinations. "Her dress is better traveled than I am!". The fiancé is a type A personality and though nice, is a little picky and difficult. Her brother has decided to "surprise" her by buying back her beloved childhood home and changing the wedding venue to there from Leah's parent's home behind her back. So there's some cloak and dagger going on while the fiancé is getting more and more anxious that her wedding won't be perfect and something is being kept from her. Also, Drew has decided to sell his Nana's home because he no longer has ties to the community and that makes everyone sad, including Drew.
In summarizing the plot, it sounds like there is a lot going on, but there really isn't. This one doesn't aim for high comedy or drama. It is gentle and low-key, yet I wasn't bored. There were a lot of layers to the story and doesn't always take the obvious path. Drew and Leah's love story takes center stage and it is sweet. It develops slowly and tentatively but was engaging and romantic. The chemistry ended up being very strong. I felt the uncertainty and the emotion. The climax is touching and I loved the ending which wound everything up in a creative and upbeat way instead of with a lone chaste kiss. I must add, parenthetically, that Hallmark and the clones have really jazzed up the kisses this year.
When she confides in her childhood friend and former crush, Drew, who is also visiting town, he decides to do something special with her almost daily to help her celebrate. In the background we learn that the reason why she hasn't done more with her life is that she is afraid to leave her Dad, who has had a few health scares. The airline has lost her brother's fiance's wedding dress, sending it to all the wrong destinations. "Her dress is better traveled than I am!". The fiancé is a type A personality and though nice, is a little picky and difficult. Her brother has decided to "surprise" her by buying back her beloved childhood home and changing the wedding venue to there from Leah's parent's home behind her back. So there's some cloak and dagger going on while the fiancé is getting more and more anxious that her wedding won't be perfect and something is being kept from her. Also, Drew has decided to sell his Nana's home because he no longer has ties to the community and that makes everyone sad, including Drew.
In summarizing the plot, it sounds like there is a lot going on, but there really isn't. This one doesn't aim for high comedy or drama. It is gentle and low-key, yet I wasn't bored. There were a lot of layers to the story and doesn't always take the obvious path. Drew and Leah's love story takes center stage and it is sweet. It develops slowly and tentatively but was engaging and romantic. The chemistry ended up being very strong. I felt the uncertainty and the emotion. The climax is touching and I loved the ending which wound everything up in a creative and upbeat way instead of with a lone chaste kiss. I must add, parenthetically, that Hallmark and the clones have really jazzed up the kisses this year.
Gorgeous scenery - ok story
sevenseas11 November 2022
The scenery and set design in this movie reminded me of a Nancy Meyers movie! Absolutely gorgeous, extravagant, stunning, expensive set design the entire movie! This Hallmark movie is in a league of its own when it comes to set design!
I watch Hallmark Christmas movies mostly for the scenery, it's not for the extraordinary scripts and stories, lol.
The female lead has well off parents with lots of money, so they have a gorgeous home, and drive a Mercedes, etc.
This movie has gorgeous Christmas scenery and lots of snow and the story and the romance was OK, but I will mostly watch this again for the beautiful visuals.
I watch Hallmark Christmas movies mostly for the scenery, it's not for the extraordinary scripts and stories, lol.
The female lead has well off parents with lots of money, so they have a gorgeous home, and drive a Mercedes, etc.
This movie has gorgeous Christmas scenery and lots of snow and the story and the romance was OK, but I will mostly watch this again for the beautiful visuals.
A holiday Sixteen Candles and I loved it!
cgvsluis6 January 2022
This film had Sixteen Candle vibes all over it, brother's wedding...forgotten birthday. But instead of a sweet sixteen birthday it's a thirtieth birthday. Shockingly they picked someone as handsome as Jake Ryan.... I love Casey Deidrick! (Any Driven fans out there?)
Leah's brother Paul and his fiancé, Julia, plan her dream wedding...on Christmas Eve, which just happens to be Leah's thirtieth birthday. Julia has real ideas about her wedding and Paul is trying to create her dream and he needs his friends and everyone in the family to help. In all the commotion everyone had forgotten about Leah's birthday (sound familiar?), except Paul's best friend Drew...who just happens to be Leah's childhood crush.
Drew takes it upon himself to make Leah's birthday special, while respecting her wish not to bring it up to anyone else. Through the process...they get to catch up and relearn what makes the other one tick.
Leah hasn't done all of the things she had hoped to do by the age of thirty...and is a bit melancholy about it. Drew on the other hand has done the traveling that Leah missed out on and they both share a great fondness for his Nana who used to live across the street from Leah and Paul's childhood home in Roselake.
"Not gazebo in winter crazy."-Drew.
I really liked the familial love and sacrifice. I also love the friendships and the brother warning off his friends and warning his friend to not hurt his sister.
This was sweet and romantic...with lovely throwbacks to one of my favorite films of all time, Sixteen Candles. I highly, highly recommend seeing this over the holidays!
Leah's brother Paul and his fiancé, Julia, plan her dream wedding...on Christmas Eve, which just happens to be Leah's thirtieth birthday. Julia has real ideas about her wedding and Paul is trying to create her dream and he needs his friends and everyone in the family to help. In all the commotion everyone had forgotten about Leah's birthday (sound familiar?), except Paul's best friend Drew...who just happens to be Leah's childhood crush.
Drew takes it upon himself to make Leah's birthday special, while respecting her wish not to bring it up to anyone else. Through the process...they get to catch up and relearn what makes the other one tick.
Leah hasn't done all of the things she had hoped to do by the age of thirty...and is a bit melancholy about it. Drew on the other hand has done the traveling that Leah missed out on and they both share a great fondness for his Nana who used to live across the street from Leah and Paul's childhood home in Roselake.
"Not gazebo in winter crazy."-Drew.
I really liked the familial love and sacrifice. I also love the friendships and the brother warning off his friends and warning his friend to not hurt his sister.
This was sweet and romantic...with lovely throwbacks to one of my favorite films of all time, Sixteen Candles. I highly, highly recommend seeing this over the holidays!
Well made.
adamjohns-4257517 December 2022
A Very Merry Bridesmaid (2021) -
This film contained a believable romance that was delivered with aptitude by two good actors. I felt their interest in one another and I liked it. I also liked the whole setup of the film and the structure of the wedding as the backdrop.
Drew, played by Casey Deidrick was hotttt!!! I look forward to seeing more of him when I finally catch up on the 'Teen Wolf' (2011-7) TV series and I will look for his other appearances too. It was nice to see a new face for a change and a handsome one to boot.
Even Paul (Patch May) was cute in a wonky kind of way, a bit 'Samwise Gamgee' almost.
Emily Osment was quite a lot to take, playing Leah, but definitely likeable and I was happy for her to get together with Drew. I have been wanting a lot of the leading men to get together with the brothers and other players in many of the latest films I've seen, because there has been no chemistry between the leads whatsoever, so it was nice to feel that they worked more on this occasion.
Julie (Frances Leigh) however was high maintenance. Just because her parents had died, she was treated like a spoiled brat. I mean get over it! She was also quite an annoying actor. I did feel sorry that she was abandoned a lot throughout the film though. After all, according to Darlene Love, nobody wants to be alone at Christmas.
One criticism that I have for the films released this year is that last year they actually released some films with same sex leading couples, but this year they just seem to be saturating all of the other films that they've made, like this one, with sideline LGBTQ+ characters. I've actually started lesbian spotting, because they seem to be in them the most.
They also need to stop using mistletoe as an excuse to kiss as well, or at the very least, less often, because it suggests that they don't really want to do it otherwise, which makes things awkward and harder to believe and it's slightly lazy on the part of the writer.
I did love the fact that there was actually real snow used for a change, even if it was a bit inconsistent. Either that or it was a brilliant facsimile.
But, I don't care how many patio heaters they squeezed in to that tent at the end, it would be way too cold to sit outside in December in a place that was already coated with snow.
Also, I laughed when I saw the note in the Sex and Nudity section about cleavage, but those babies really were out there for everyone to see. Yikes! As I'm not a boob fan I had to look away, but be warned that they're there.
It was a nice film though. Charmingly filled with love and the season, without going over the top and apart from Julie everyone delivered well.
7/10.
This film contained a believable romance that was delivered with aptitude by two good actors. I felt their interest in one another and I liked it. I also liked the whole setup of the film and the structure of the wedding as the backdrop.
Drew, played by Casey Deidrick was hotttt!!! I look forward to seeing more of him when I finally catch up on the 'Teen Wolf' (2011-7) TV series and I will look for his other appearances too. It was nice to see a new face for a change and a handsome one to boot.
Even Paul (Patch May) was cute in a wonky kind of way, a bit 'Samwise Gamgee' almost.
Emily Osment was quite a lot to take, playing Leah, but definitely likeable and I was happy for her to get together with Drew. I have been wanting a lot of the leading men to get together with the brothers and other players in many of the latest films I've seen, because there has been no chemistry between the leads whatsoever, so it was nice to feel that they worked more on this occasion.
Julie (Frances Leigh) however was high maintenance. Just because her parents had died, she was treated like a spoiled brat. I mean get over it! She was also quite an annoying actor. I did feel sorry that she was abandoned a lot throughout the film though. After all, according to Darlene Love, nobody wants to be alone at Christmas.
One criticism that I have for the films released this year is that last year they actually released some films with same sex leading couples, but this year they just seem to be saturating all of the other films that they've made, like this one, with sideline LGBTQ+ characters. I've actually started lesbian spotting, because they seem to be in them the most.
They also need to stop using mistletoe as an excuse to kiss as well, or at the very least, less often, because it suggests that they don't really want to do it otherwise, which makes things awkward and harder to believe and it's slightly lazy on the part of the writer.
I did love the fact that there was actually real snow used for a change, even if it was a bit inconsistent. Either that or it was a brilliant facsimile.
But, I don't care how many patio heaters they squeezed in to that tent at the end, it would be way too cold to sit outside in December in a place that was already coated with snow.
Also, I laughed when I saw the note in the Sex and Nudity section about cleavage, but those babies really were out there for everyone to see. Yikes! As I'm not a boob fan I had to look away, but be warned that they're there.
It was a nice film though. Charmingly filled with love and the season, without going over the top and apart from Julie everyone delivered well.
7/10.
A cure for insomnia?
gfrasmd10 December 2021
It is not easy to exactly define what confers to certain books or shows the pawer to grab your attention, so that you cannot stop watching or reading until you reach the end. Conversely, with others you keep finding yourself lost in unrelated thoughts and, as much as you try to bring your attention back, you can never achieve to complete them. Hallmark movies, like this one, increasingly fall into the latter category. I am not sure what is missing. Actors' charisma? More wit in the script? A faster pace? Real drama? Whatever the missing ingredients, this production runs like a monotone of dialogues and actions that feel barely relevant or stimulating enough to maintain the viewer's attention. Essentially, the movie is boring. Halmark must have obtained solid information to the fact that most viewers suffer of insomnia.
pretty good, all things considered!
novagirl1119 December 2021
I loved how deep the story went into the background relationship between Leah and Drew. It was fun to see them making alfajores and Emily Osment looked great in all the blue comfy-looking sweaters. I really don't think they needed to explain what a milestone birthday is three times, but whatever. Also, who would have their wedding on their sister's/future sister-in-law's birthday? That said, they did a good job not making Julia seem like bridezilla (for example, she apologizes very quickly when she thinks she may have offended the family and is not quick to blame or yell at the airline associates on the phone). I thought the line about someone putting the ornaments on the tree before the lights was pretty funny!
Actually Develops Romance!!
catherinewaters-917381 August 2022
Warning: Spoilers
What stands out is that this movie actually develops the relationship & romance on screen during the movie. No one was clueless or unrequited or playing the hating game. It was believable and sweet. This was such a refreshing change! Second, I was expecting Hallmark to drag out the "No Birthday celebration" for the bridesmaid, cramming it on at the end. Instead, her love interest celebrates her Birthday as the movie goes along with cute and fun surprises. One drawback is it's a "low vibe"movie. It moves slowly and it has kind of a melancholy mood. (Bride misses her parents who passed away, main character is down on herself and disappointed that her life has been different than she dreamed, her love interest misses his Nana). That being said, the losses and regrets are relatable and there were many cute and happy moments, too.
Put me to sleep
Kenkeller-98-6205536 December 2021
Had a nice authentic vibe to it...
heathersmith-8738018 December 2021
I enjoyed A Very Merry Bridesmaid. The story was warm and heartfelt. It had a nice authentic feel to it, which I thought was charming. The acting was excellent. The leads had chemistry. And it had a nice Christmas atmosphere. If you are a fan of Hallmark Christmas movies then you should check this one out.
Great leads, nods to 16 Candles, recommend.
mccabe-shannon26 October 2022
Warning: Spoilers
This was the HM Christmas movie I was most excited for last year, but I forgot to record it and was gone when it was on and just never caught. So glad when it came on today.
I mean Emily Osmant and Casey Deidricl? This is like dream casting as I absolutely love them both. I think they could both have great HM careers in the right roles.
A lot of reviews seemed to get mad about the 16 Candles likeness- I enjoyed it (as a big John Hughes fan) and so many other Of these movies are pretty much copies of each other- and this doesn't shy away from it- being a milestone bday like 16, the siblings wedding, set in the northern suburbs of Chicago (although obviously not), and the high school older crush. It's cute.
Another reviewer said what does she have to be upset about- she is 30 owns a store and lives in a nice house. 1) unless that store was super successful which it doesn't appear to be, she probably wouldn't be able to afford that at that age in the area but more importantly 2) just because you're doing well by someone else's standards doesn't always equate happiness especially if you've been putting off what you really want to be doing.
Emily Osmant- she is totally adorable. Others said it seemed like she phoned this one in. I disagree. Because she wasn't a super bubbly character like in some of her other performances, doesn't mean she wasn't into this. I think the acting fit the role. I actually liked the more subdued realistic person. I could relate to it and it seemed natural.
Casey Deidrick- I could just look at him for hours and enjoy whatever it was. The beats did need a bit cleaning up, but I feel that way with a lot of guys the last few years. I thought there was chemistry between them. It was restrained as it had to be- the best friends sister, who he had known forever, he is leaving to go back to Central America in a few weeks etc etc etc. I could have wanted a touch more emotion in the performance but overall good.
The side characters: the parents were both good. I wasn't a huge fan of the brother. The sister in law was annoying but I totally get it. The brother had a "bachelor" party but the SIL didn't have any friends around to help- just the husbands family- but she grew up nearby - she had no friends around? Leah's friends were a bit superfluous.
Yes nobody is having an outside wedding at Xmas in Chicago. That's just silly. They barely had any help getting the new house together and it'd be ready for a wedding?! There is a lot going on here- the birthday, the wedding, the missing dress, the new house, the moving of the wedding, him selling the house, Him going back to Central America, the dads health (which seems totally fine minus her mentions of it and her stopping raveling because of it), the budding romance, I mean that's a lot going on in a 90 minute movie. Also why is the SIL staying with her?! A lot of stuff doesn't make sense but what HM movie doesn't have a list of things that don't make sense haha.
I love the slow burn. The feelings always being there. There is a good foundation. It's sweet.
Overall very good movie. I may not eagerly rewatch it but I'm glad I finally did catch it! Definitely better than many in this genre- you don't walk away with the overly saccharine nauseating overly acted unbelievable after feelings, but a few things could have improved it.
I mean Emily Osmant and Casey Deidricl? This is like dream casting as I absolutely love them both. I think they could both have great HM careers in the right roles.
A lot of reviews seemed to get mad about the 16 Candles likeness- I enjoyed it (as a big John Hughes fan) and so many other Of these movies are pretty much copies of each other- and this doesn't shy away from it- being a milestone bday like 16, the siblings wedding, set in the northern suburbs of Chicago (although obviously not), and the high school older crush. It's cute.
Another reviewer said what does she have to be upset about- she is 30 owns a store and lives in a nice house. 1) unless that store was super successful which it doesn't appear to be, she probably wouldn't be able to afford that at that age in the area but more importantly 2) just because you're doing well by someone else's standards doesn't always equate happiness especially if you've been putting off what you really want to be doing.
Emily Osmant- she is totally adorable. Others said it seemed like she phoned this one in. I disagree. Because she wasn't a super bubbly character like in some of her other performances, doesn't mean she wasn't into this. I think the acting fit the role. I actually liked the more subdued realistic person. I could relate to it and it seemed natural.
Casey Deidrick- I could just look at him for hours and enjoy whatever it was. The beats did need a bit cleaning up, but I feel that way with a lot of guys the last few years. I thought there was chemistry between them. It was restrained as it had to be- the best friends sister, who he had known forever, he is leaving to go back to Central America in a few weeks etc etc etc. I could have wanted a touch more emotion in the performance but overall good.
The side characters: the parents were both good. I wasn't a huge fan of the brother. The sister in law was annoying but I totally get it. The brother had a "bachelor" party but the SIL didn't have any friends around to help- just the husbands family- but she grew up nearby - she had no friends around? Leah's friends were a bit superfluous.
Yes nobody is having an outside wedding at Xmas in Chicago. That's just silly. They barely had any help getting the new house together and it'd be ready for a wedding?! There is a lot going on here- the birthday, the wedding, the missing dress, the new house, the moving of the wedding, him selling the house, Him going back to Central America, the dads health (which seems totally fine minus her mentions of it and her stopping raveling because of it), the budding romance, I mean that's a lot going on in a 90 minute movie. Also why is the SIL staying with her?! A lot of stuff doesn't make sense but what HM movie doesn't have a list of things that don't make sense haha.
I love the slow burn. The feelings always being there. There is a good foundation. It's sweet.
Overall very good movie. I may not eagerly rewatch it but I'm glad I finally did catch it! Definitely better than many in this genre- you don't walk away with the overly saccharine nauseating overly acted unbelievable after feelings, but a few things could have improved it.
Simple, but touching
cutie_h135 December 2021
Warning: Spoilers
I always find it amusing when people give Hallmark movies low ratings because it's too "unrealistic". When has any Hallmark movie been completely realistic? You know what to expect when it comes to the Hallmark formula. But I have to say this one was a pleasant surprise. I'm a fan of both leads and it was so great to see that one of the strongest aspects of this movie was their chemistry. The storyline between them felt authentic and they had an ease between them that made it believable they've been friends since childhood. The conflict that later arises between them didn't feel contrived like most conflict does in Hallmark movies. I understood both sides and it also didn't create a huge rift between them. Did it have 'Sixteen Candles' vibes? A little, yes. But the writer definitely made this one their own. It was also interesting to see the reason behind Leah's decision to not travel anymore or continue living out her dreams. That also felt realistic to me because wrenches get thrown into life plans all the time, especially when it involves a family member's health.
I agree that the sudden new plan for the wedding 2 weeks away wasn't an ideal situation and the least realistic thing about the movie, but again....are we really going to give this sweet movie a low rating because of that? I'm not. I hope others don't either. All in all, it was one of the stronger movies so far this season. In my opinion. Definitely one of my new favs.
I agree that the sudden new plan for the wedding 2 weeks away wasn't an ideal situation and the least realistic thing about the movie, but again....are we really going to give this sweet movie a low rating because of that? I'm not. I hope others don't either. All in all, it was one of the stronger movies so far this season. In my opinion. Definitely one of my new favs.
a bore
montgomerysue5 December 2021
The delightful actress Emily Osment deserves way better than this. Try as she does, she can't save this from being a monotonous bore. Poorly written, the story just meanders on and on, with little to keep the viewer really interested in what happens. Too much talking, with too little plot. Osment's leading man, Casey Diedrick, seems to walk through his part, like he, too, is just bored with the whole thing, so there is very little believability in the relationship between him and Osment. The rest of the supporting cast is uninteresting and adds practically nothing to the story. A real shame since Osment is one actress that you can usually depend on for solid entertainment. "A Very Bored Bridesmaid".
Overall Good Movie.
cortesjsv9 December 2022
Overall this is a sweet, feel-good movie! But the sister-in-law's character was annoying as heck. And I didn't like the actress who played her. Maybe it was a combination of her acting and how the character was written? The character just seemed so ungrateful, and was such a downer each time she appeared. Literally each scene she showed up in, I would get so annoyed. The family always seemed on edge with her around.
Everyone else did a great job and I enjoyed every other character. Emily Osmant played her character very well and Casey Deidrick's character was so warm and gentle, which he played so well himself.
Everyone else did a great job and I enjoyed every other character. Emily Osmant played her character very well and Casey Deidrick's character was so warm and gentle, which he played so well himself.
Whoops!
sparkydj-058711 August 2022
The top review is spot on! What's worse is when the wedding experts botch the wedding processional music? What was that? Where was Wagner's Bridal Chorus? The string quartet played the recessional, Wedding March by Mendelssohn!
Aint no dude gonna rearrange a wedding
MickyG3339 December 2022
7.5 stars.
I saw Emily Osment in 'Young and Hungry' several years back. I was wondering where she went, so it's nice to see her again.
I like this movie because the leads have good chemistry, and all the cast are superb. It's good that they utilize so many characters to tell the story, it adds to the variety. The director was meticulous getting this one to come out just right for the audience. Everything meets the usual Hallmark standards, and I'm quite satisfied. Initially my impression was 8.0 stars. But as time progressed the overall rating was reduced due to several minor annoyances.
That being said: the ending was really awesome, and I really appreciated the character development of all the main personalities. If not for the few bothersome factors, this would be a yearly watched movie.
Hallmark was one of the last bastions where I could see something that doesn't have to make a statement for political correctness. If you feel that gays are under-represented, then at least make it proportional. I hope people realize that putting a gay couple in half the Hallmark productions is not realistic. Gays comprise about 2% of the population of western culture (according to some articles).
The next unrealistic representation and the exact opposite of "woke" is the ridiculous notion that the groom-to-be would change the wedding venue as a surprise. In the western world this would never happen. Maybe it happens in places like India where arranged marriages are still a societal norm, or in communist nations where equality is NON-EXISTENT. In a despotic country the word "woke" might pertain to a tyrant allowing a human to say something in public other than "God save the king". In that country humans have no freedom or rights whatsoever anyways. Meanwhile we have nothing better to do in western society than to fight for freedom to call ourselves by our preferred pronoun? People are dying 'round the world for food, and freedom. If you want to represent something in Hallmark films, then make it for those poor souls who actually understand what it means to suffer.
I saw Emily Osment in 'Young and Hungry' several years back. I was wondering where she went, so it's nice to see her again.
I like this movie because the leads have good chemistry, and all the cast are superb. It's good that they utilize so many characters to tell the story, it adds to the variety. The director was meticulous getting this one to come out just right for the audience. Everything meets the usual Hallmark standards, and I'm quite satisfied. Initially my impression was 8.0 stars. But as time progressed the overall rating was reduced due to several minor annoyances.
That being said: the ending was really awesome, and I really appreciated the character development of all the main personalities. If not for the few bothersome factors, this would be a yearly watched movie.
Hallmark was one of the last bastions where I could see something that doesn't have to make a statement for political correctness. If you feel that gays are under-represented, then at least make it proportional. I hope people realize that putting a gay couple in half the Hallmark productions is not realistic. Gays comprise about 2% of the population of western culture (according to some articles).
The next unrealistic representation and the exact opposite of "woke" is the ridiculous notion that the groom-to-be would change the wedding venue as a surprise. In the western world this would never happen. Maybe it happens in places like India where arranged marriages are still a societal norm, or in communist nations where equality is NON-EXISTENT. In a despotic country the word "woke" might pertain to a tyrant allowing a human to say something in public other than "God save the king". In that country humans have no freedom or rights whatsoever anyways. Meanwhile we have nothing better to do in western society than to fight for freedom to call ourselves by our preferred pronoun? People are dying 'round the world for food, and freedom. If you want to represent something in Hallmark films, then make it for those poor souls who actually understand what it means to suffer.
Nice holiday movie, main character is a great actress for the role
foleyfan-5259124 December 2021
I enjoyed this movie. Main character is great in the role. Decent supporting cast. I guess it's set in Chicago but I didn't get that vibe from the location and scenery.
Some cheesy parts but overall a very nice holiday movie.
Some cheesy parts but overall a very nice holiday movie.
Unrealistic
oatmeal1995 December 2021
Warning: Spoilers
Emily was the only good thing about this movie. The rest unbelievable, who changes a wedding 2 weeks to go, bride and groom had no chemistry, and nobody would have an outdoor wedding reception in December near Chicago!
Feel good christmassy film
annbss1 April 2022
It was a real and full of heart movie. Emily Osment and Casey Deidrik played perfectly and have great chemistry together. I truly enjoyed this Christmas movie as it was fun and feel good film. The storyline was well scripted and Emily played astonishingly a brillant young woman starting in their 30s. Definitely a good watch.
Missing something...
lilac-315825 December 2021
I love Emily. She was terrific in Young & Hungry (that show should come back btw). She has a light, happy personality that seemed to be filled for this role. The movie felt drab, like it was missing the lightheartedness Christmas brings. I would love to see her in another role for Hallmark (I think she could be the female version of Paul Campbell). The guy was okay, again, felt kinda blah and was missing feeling.
Dialogue well done
kylebud-459-7235686 December 2021
The writing is surprisingly done well and what actual people would say. Not like a scripted story in every instance. Normal scenarios are written in like they would be expected.
Let's hope Emily Osmet does more Christmas movies, because she rocks this story.
Let's hope Emily Osmet does more Christmas movies, because she rocks this story.
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