This was more of a romantic drama than a rom-com. It wasn't at all light-hearted or fluffy. It wasn't about witty banter between the two leads. If that's what you were expecting, you probably wouldn't like this movie. But if you like movies that deal with real people and real emotions, this one will be right up your alley.
The dialog and interactions between the main characters Sarah and Ryan were very realistic and genuine. You felt like you were getting to know them as real people, even as they were getting to know each other. The performances from Jewel Staite and Travis Milne were heartfelt and emotional. They really helped you feel what it was like to be getting over the death of a spouse and tentatively approaching the possibility of moving on with someone else. Their chemistry wasn't what you'd call sizzling. It was more like a gentle, easy rapport that developed nicely over time.
It was a bit frustrating when Sarah withdrew from Ryan, just as it seemed that their relationship was taking off. But that's actually pretty realistic. She hadn't been dealing with her feelings of grief at losing her husband, and her relationship with Ryan forced those feelings to the forefront. She really had to work through those feelings before she was ready for a new relationship. She was clearly at a different point in the grief process from Ryan, who had been widowed longer and had already begun dating again. In many of these Hallmark and Hallmark-esque romances that involve a widow/widower, they seem way too willing to get into a relationship and way too willing to forget their late spouse. I'm glad this movie didn't go down that route.
One thing I didn't like was the lame way Sarah's sister-in-law Maggie didn't want to acknowledge her relationship and engagement with Teddy. If I'd been Teddy, I would've pushed the issue a lot sooner than he did. The reason she ultimately gave, that she couldn't imagine facing marriage without her late brother, was pretty weak. If she had such a deep relationship with her brother, it needed to be made clear earlier in the movie, but it wasn't. Another thing I wish they had done was have one of the leads befriend the sarcastic waitress and find out why she was so sarcastic. There could have been a good backstory there. I'm guessing that time constraints didn't allow them to explore this potentially-interesting subplot. But why even have a character like that if you're not going to do anything with her?
All in all, I thought this was a heartfelt, thoughtful movie with good writing and solid performances. Some might call it sappy or overly sentimental, but I think all the emotions and potential tears were honest and well-earned. Definitely one of the better romantic dramas that I've seen lately.
