All Things Valentine

All Things Valentine is an enchanting, romantic comedy that debuted on the Hallmark Channel in 2016. Starring Sarah Rafferty, Sam Page, Jeremy Guilbaut, and an impressive supporting cast, the movie invokes feelings of hope, love and warmth. Filled with the classic nuances of a Hallmark Original, the film effortlessly weaves the romance and comedy genres, making it a joy to watch.

In this movie, Rafferty plays Avery Parker, a web-savvy blogger who takes on the adventures and pitfalls of modern dating in the digital age. She operates a lifestyle blog for the local newspaper and has a diverse following of readers who hang onto her every word. As Valentine’s Day approaches, Avery pens a series of articles dismissing the holiday as overhyped and commercialized. Her perspectives are strongly against the idea of celebrating a day specifically designated for love. However, her harsh criticism of Valentine's Day brings a new twist to her life that she doesn't quite expect.

Pitted against her is veterinarian Brendan Bates, charmingly played by Sam Page. Brendan is the quintessential good guy with a heart of gold. He is every girl's dream valentine. He is an avid believer in all things Valentine - expressing love, exchanging gifts, and making the day special. Brendan takes Avery's negative sentiments about Valentine's Day personally, as he believes in cherishing Valentine's day and making it meaningful for his beloved. He places enormous importance on the notion of love, and deeply cherishes its sentiments, more so on Valentine’s Day.

Bates has a very loyal four-legged patient who is also a therapy dog named Christie; Christie takes an instant liking to Avery. A serendipitous encounter between Avery and Brendan sets the plot rolling. Both characters are stark opposites when it comes to their feelings about Valentine's Day, which leads to friction and undeniable chemistry between them.

As the story unfolds, Avery finds herself drawn to the handsome vet, in spite of their conflicting perspectives on the ‘day of love.’ Brendan’s charm and authenticity slowly start to thaw Avery's disdain for Valentine's Day. Although they start on a seemingly opposite spectrum of beliefs, their unexpected encounters stir up feelings that they can’t ignore.

Jeremy Guilbaut plays in a supporting role as James, Avery's doting brother, who provides emotional support to his brave sister during her online dating catastrophes. His subtle humor and strong bond with Avery add a depth to the storyline that only supporting characters can provide in a romantic comedy.

Set against the backdrop of a tranquil town, the movie wonderfully explores the travails and triumphs of love in the age of digital dating. This Hallmark flick doesn’t shy away from addressing the modern complexities of navigating affection and relationships. It also brings out the subtlety and simplicity of old-school love, presenting a lovely blend of modernity with tradition.

Along the way, there are many hurdles, confusion, and miscommunications, which add a zest of suspense in the narrative. The movie keeps viewers guessing as both Rafferty and Page navigate the challenges of falling in love, given their differing standpoints about Valentine’s Day. Will love triumph in the end? Will Avery's stance on Valentine's Day change for the better or worse? All these elements stir curiosity about the eventual culmination of the story.

The film’s on-screen chemistry between Avery and Brendan is palpable and enjoyable, enhanced by the standout performances of Sarah Rafferty and Sam Page. The movie itself beautifully conveys the message that love isn’t just about one day but should indeed be celebrated every day.

With its heartwarming narrative, All Things Valentine hits the right notes, making it a perfect movie to watch curled up on the couch with a loved one. It skillfully carries you through a roller coaster of emotions; there are moments when you will laugh and moments when you can’t help but cheer for the protagonists. All Things Valentine is a reminder that every day can be Valentine’s Day when you are with the one you love. It indeed makes for a delightful and uplifting viewing experience.