Appetite for Love

Appetite for Love, released in 2016, is a romantic and heartfelt film that appeals to those who love the charm of small-town stories, classic family values and the idea of rekindling old romances. The film stars Taylor Cole, Andrew W. Walker, and Alley Mills, who deliver heartwarming performances that add depth to their unique characters, making the narrative emotionally engaging and relatable.

Taylor Cole leads the cast as Mina Jones, a fierce, city-based businesswoman, who works for a big corporate restaurant chain. Mina is driven, very goal-oriented, but also primarily concerned with climbing the corporate ladder, sometimes at the expense of her personal life. This dedicated executive is tasked with the job of restructuring and rebranding a family-owned diner in her hometown, owned by none other than her high school sweetheart.

Andrew W. Walker suits up as Clay Hart, Mina’s old flame and the current owner of the small-town dinner. Blessed with a laid-back personality, his character stands as a stark contrast to the high-strung Mina. Clay believes in preserving traditions, and he takes great pride in the goodwill his eatery enjoys among the locals. He loves his quaint little diner just the way it is and is not very enthusiastic about the corporate invasion.

Alley Mills stars as Peggy Dupree, a loving woman who is very protective of her son, Clay. She is welcoming, warm-hearted, and takes an immediate liking to Mina.

The movie revolves around the clash of two different philosophies: one that believes in growth through change, and another that cherishes the continuance of tradition. As Mina arrives in her hometown with a clear objective: turn the mom-and-pop diner into a modern, commercialized eatery, the very heart and soul of the town's community seem to be at stake. It is Clay's mission to prevent this from happening, resulting in a head-to-head standoff between the former lovers.

However, coming back to her old town, Mina begins to get reacquainted with the one thing she sacrificed in her quest for a corporate career: simplicity. Running into old friends, sharing meals with her mom, and feeling the pulse of the town she left behind for the big city, Mina starts to question her goals and values.

Together, Mina and Clay have to navigate their past, their feelings for each other, and their conflicting professional goals. The stark contrast between corporate drive and small-town charm creates an intriguing tension throughout the movie while exploring the themes of love, tradition, and personal growth. As both characters rethink their life choices, their journey of self-discovery and potential reconciliation reveals a compelling story.

David Mackay dircted the movie, and he wonderfully captures the charm and quaintness of small-town life and contrasts it well against Mina's big city corporate world. The cinematography of the film beautifully captures the heart of Americana, from the cozy diner to the breathtaking wide-open landscapes of the small town.

Appetite for Love is not just a movie about love; it is also about soul-searching, about finding your roots again, and about the charm of small towns and the tight-knit communities that exist within them. It's the reminder that sometimes, in our pursuit of success and material possessions, we may forget the simpler pleasures of life: love, camaraderie, and community. The soul of the film lies in its simple yet profound exploration of these values and the rebirth of Mina’s connection with her hometown.

While the themes explored in the movie are not new, the film's real strength lies in its execution and the performances by the actors. Taylor Cole and Andrew W. Walker share a genuine chemistry, making their yearning for personal change and the possibility of a rekindled love believable and enjoyable.

Appetite for Love, in essence, is a charming, heartwarming film. It's a perfect watch for a cozy weekend when you want to indulge in a light-hearted rom-com that is sure to leave you feeling good, and maybe a bit nostalgic for the simplicity and charm of small-town life.