Once Upon a Date

Once Upon a Date is a romantic-comedy TV movie from 2017 that beautifully captures the amalgamation of romance, deception and eventual self-discovery. Directed by Lee Friedlander, this enchanting movie includes the reputable acting talents of Katrina Bowden, known for her comedic performances, the handsome lead Dean Geyer, and the versatile James Callis. With its intriguing mix of comedic timing, heartfelt emotions, and the flair of deceit, the movie manages to hold the viewer's attention from beginning to end.

The movie's foundation revolves primarily around an unusual dating game. At the heart of this tale is Tim (Dean Geyer), a dazzlingly handsome and utterly charming tree trimmer and landscaper. He is an affable man-next-door, comfortable in his world and his profession. On the other hand, we have the renowned actress Kelly (Katrina Bowden), a stunning beauty who carries a insightful understanding of her field but is unable to relate it to the regular world outside the glitz and glamour of her stardom. Tying together these two disparate lives is Vincent's character Josh (James Callis), a close friend to Tim and also his agent, who is always on the lookout for making a quick buck.

As the story unfolds, we follow Tim, who feels somewhat stuck in his life. Despite being proficient in his job and loved by his community, he wants more. He yearns for recognition and respect that extends beyond his small suburban existence. His agent friend Josh, knowing about Tim's desires, seizes an unlikely opportunity to enrol Tim in a high-profile charity bachelor auction, and pitches him as a 'doctor' to increase his appeal. With Tim's good looks and Josh's savvy marketing, the audience is drawn in, including the celebrity actress Kelly.

Kelly, a successful actress yearning for authenticity and sincerity amidst the superficiality of her industry, is smitten by Tim, who she believes to be a humble doctor. She participates in the auction and wins a date with him. Mesmerized by his charm and his seemingly humble profession, Kelly opts to continue seeing Tim outside of the auction, which unfolds a series of comedic scenarios as Tim tries to maintain the medical facade.

The crux of Once Upon a Date is, as expected, the portrayal of the developing relationship between Tim and Kelly. The chemistry between Dean Geyer and Katrina Bowden brilliantly depicts the undeniable bond that develops, despite the cloud of deception hovering over their heads. The characters are well-rounded and bring a depth to the story, reflecting on the materialistic world we belong to and the rays of sincerity that can penetrate through.

Simultaneously, the movie also explores the friendship between Tim and Josh. James Callis, known for his dynamic performances, provides a captivating portrayal of a cunning yet loyal friend who, despite his questionable decisions, has Tim's best interests at heart.

Scene after scene, Once Upon a Date manages to balance the fine line between humour and the intensity of falling in love under dishonest circumstances. The audience cannot help but feel connected to the characters, rooting for Tim to confess the truth, for Kelly to see the genuine man behind the doctor facade, and for Josh to realize that friendship is not a platform for exploitation but a bond of trust and respect.

This romantic comedy pleasantly fulfils all the hallmarks of the genre, along with well-crafted dialogue that often invokes thoughtful chuckles. However, what sets it apart is its core essence – the emphasis on honesty, authenticity and the reality that sometimes life’s most beautiful opportunities come wrapped in the most unlikely packages. It's a heartfelt film that leaves its viewers with a sense of joy and the belief that love can conquer the most convoluted situations.

To sum it up, Once Upon a Date treats its viewers with a delightful mix of romance and comedy, underlined by a potent message about authenticity and integrity. With stellar performances, an engaging plot, and a passionate chemistry between its leading characters, it's a film that is sure to stay with the audience long after the end credits roll.