Moonlight in Vermont

Moonlight in Vermont is a heartwarming romantic drama that delicately sews together the threads of love, second chances, and self-discovery. Released in 2017 and directed by Mel Damski, it stars Lacey Chabert, Carlo Marks, and Jesse Moss, with a supporting cast who complement the film's narrative arc with grace and charm. At the center of this film are compelling performances, breathtaking Vermont’s autumnal backdrops and an engaging plotline.

The story revolves around the life of Fiona Rangley, magnetically portrayed by Lacey Chabert. Fiona is a driven and ambitious New York City real estate broker who lives an uber-urban life, wrapped up in her work schedules and continuously striving to attain her career goals. However, the forced fast-paced life takes a toll on her personal life which is highlighted when her boyfriend abruptly breaks up with her. A visibly heartbroken Fiona, amid her shattered personal life, is left craving a respite.

Moving her life on pause, Fiona seeks solace in her dad’s countryside Vermont Inn where she spent many of her formative years. The warm, nostalgic aesthetics of the Vermont landscapes, with its serene ambience and slower pace of life, serves as a tranquil refuge from her chaotic city life. However, her break takes a turn when she finds herself enmeshed in unexpected circumstances. Her path collides with Derek, the handsome, affable local who happens to be her ex-boyfriend, captivatingly played by Carlo Marks.

Derek is everything Fiona isn't. He is charming, relaxed, content, and deeply connected to his roots. He is the Inn’s chef and takes pride in his delectable dishes, his culinary talents being well appreciated by the Inn's guests. Now, coming face-to-face with her past, Fiona finds herself in an emotionally churned vortex, as she begins to question the decisions she's made, the life she's led, and more importantly, the wilted relationships she's left behind.

Adding to the complexity, Fiona's New York City life follows her to Vermont when her competitive colleague, Nate, played by Jesse Moss, unexpectedly shows up at the Inn for what he presumed would be a romantic rendezvous with Fiona. In an effort to avoid an awkward confrontation and to make her ex-boyfriend jealous, Fiona tries to maintain a charade of being in a relationship with Nate.

As the movie unfolds, the narrative navigates through a myriad of emotions, conveying the battle Fiona faces between her city life ambitions versus the simplicity and love beckoning her from her past in Vermont. The story is a journey of self-discovery for Fiona as she rethinks her priorities, her dreams, and her decisions. Moreover, it teases the audience with the underlying question of whether Fiona will rekindle her old flame with Derek and rediscover happiness, or if she will return to her corporate life in the city.

The film, with its picturesque backdrops of serene lakes, vibrant autumnal hues, and the quaint charm of the Inn, offers a visual treat. The change of seasons and the beauty of fall in Vermont is cited as a metaphor for change and reflection in Fiona's life. The on-screen chemistry between Lacey Chabert and Carlo Marks is commendable and lends authenticity to their intricate relationship dynamics. Their performances are complemented perfectly by Jesse Moss, who playing the competitive colleague and potential love interest, adds a layer of confusion and chaos to Fiona's already tumultuous situation.

Moonlight in Vermont is a beautiful exploration of determination, resiliency and personal growth. It is a testament to the fact that sometimes life takes unexpected turns, setting us on the path that we were always meant to follow. This film skillfully ties together elements of romance, complicated relationships, and self-discovery while mesmerizing the viewers with the idyllic landscapes of Vermont. It is a heartening watch that gently reminds its viewers to slow down, to breathe, and to re-evaluate our life choices if they don't make us happy.

With its relatable characters, compelling narrative, and stunning visuals, Moonlight in Vermont leads us down a path where we learn to appreciate the beauty of simple things, the importance of returning to one's roots, and the invaluable joy that love and contentment brings to our lives. It's a delightful movie that paints a true picture of chasing dreams, fostering relationships, and more importantly, finding ourselves amidst the chaos of life.