Hallmark movies are either genuinely (and surprisingly) good, tolerable, or debatable, to put it mildly. Villa Amore is a bit of all three—gorgeous at times, romantic, and well… slightly discomforting. Every bit of the movie is predictable (naturally), and the dialogue often teeters around overly saccharine, but Eloise Mumford and Kevin McGarry make a solid duo, so it’s thoroughly enjoyable.
Now, Villa Amore isn’t a movie for viewers who have a hard time believing in the “insta-love” trope, but it’s certainly one for those who want to see more emotional beats and significant conversations. As someone who generally only watches Hallmark movies around the holidays (save for a few exceptions), therapy is rarely a topic of conversation. So the fact that we see mentions of it in Amore Villa is a fantastic step up for Hallmark. We even get a moment where Leo comforts Liara through a panic attack by taking her through the first steps of deep breathing by counting down five things she could see.
In truth, I was ready to turn off the film and step away due to some uncomfortably cliche dialogue until Liara’s breakdown and Mumford’s performance stopped me in my tracks. As someone who also lost her father, I felt every bit of the grief that Liara does when she starts crying after her fall. It’s in that moment where everything related to the villa stops becoming a trope and turns into something bigger. Believable and honest. It’s in that moment where we see every bit of her heart as a character.
Further, the romantic beats between Leo and Liara are also incredible in the quiet moments. While the line delivery at times feels slightly hard to believe, the action sharpens it all in and makes it easy to see why they’re falling in love. More than anything, it’s admirable that the entire third act with her ex-fiancé’s return doesn’t lead to some big argument but rather an honest conversation instead.
When it comes to movies where Americans go abroad, I always want to see more cultural authenticity and the heart of the place they’re in. If nothing else, Villa Amore also accomplishes this with Italy and it’s entirely because of all the other characters who play a part in their relationship. It’s certainly not the most ideal portrayal, but it’s lovely, nevertheless, and it’s clear that everyone involved tries not to lean into stereotypes.
Villa Amore isn’t a must-watch, but it’s certainly a good time if you’re looking for a bit of an escape. There’s a standout line that I can’t stop thinking about, which ultimately says more than an “I love you” could, and if nothing else, moments like that are always welcome here: “Thanks for saving me a seat.” “Thanks for sitting in it.” Swoon. These types of movies do a solid job of providing easy entertainment in the summertime. It’s especially fun when heat waves force us to stay indoors. Plus the donkey? Here for him. And every scenic shot? Yes, please. No notes.
Villa Amore is now streaming on Hallmark+
First Featured Image Credit: Hallmark