Love Takes Flight (2019 TV Movie) User Reviews (30)

Touching and well done multi-generational story

[jfenn53058 · 6/10 · 28 April 2019]

With the exception of the pilot character calling the helicopter rotors 'propellers' in the beginning, this movie hit solidly on several themes: Closed-off single mom, hurting widower father and adult son, job romances, job pressures and dangers.

Yes, there is the usual break-up around the bottom of the 2nd hour that seems to be a Hallmark movie requirement, but all the elements come together in the end.

I appreciated the less than saccharine tone, choosing to deal with real-life issues providing more depth than many a Hallmark movie. Well done. A keeper.

Not your run of the mill Hallmark movie.

[rightisright · 8/10 · 29 April 2019]

Nikki Deloach does a fine job as a divorced hospital administrator with a young daughter. Jeff Hephner is also okay as her potential love interest. The real star is Tom Thon as Hephners characters father. He plays the dad still grieving over the loss of his wife. It's amazing how he shows the gamut of emotions in his face. Skylar Flanigan is also super as the young daughter. Another star of this movie is the beautiful scenery of Savannah Georgia.

"Messes don't disappear, because someone had to clean it up."

[cgvsluis · 6/10 · 15 September 2021]

Single working mom, Lizzie, who's daughter Quinn is insulin dependent gave up her OB-Gyn practice to be a hospital administrator to spend more time with her daughter. Lizzie has become a bit shut-off and distrusting since her divorce. Along comes former military EMS helicopter pilot, Charlie.

Charlie pushes Lizzie's limits...everything from her fear of flying to her overly conservative rules.

These two seem destined to be together from the very beginning.but the bigger story is the friendship between the grieving widow, Walter, and Quinn who is on a "find a friend" mission. If I knew you could pick up a sweet and kind older gentleman at the grocery store...I'd be spending more time there myself.

This movie was sweet and endearing and had a lot going on...big topics to tackle, but seemed to manage it in the end.

Impressive all around.

[savethewatchmaker · 9/10 · 8 May 2019]

This movie not only surprised me, but it also genuinely touched me. I don't typically hold the Hallmark Hall of Fame movies in high regard, as I often find them overly dramatized and weigh themselves down in the process, but Love Takes Flight was a pleasant exception. I was both impressed and moved by the storyline and the characters who told it.

One of Love Takes Flight's greatest strengths is that it doesn't forget about its own plot-lines. Much too frequently, Hallmark will finish off a movie with major loose ends, forgetting about minor characters or subplots introduced earlier. Despite juggling lots of storylines, big and small, Love Takes Flight manages to wrap them all up -- and adequately at that. Combined with the wonderful acting of all those involved, it's easy to get sucked into this film without ever questioning how believable or predictable it is. It helps that the idea of strangers finding friendships and companionship in each other after a chance meeting at the supermarket is a lovely one.

And while I do believe the movie could have been a bit more light-hearted at times, the subject matters that were tackled here were well done, such as a grieving widow, or a divorced mother opening up to new people. Tom Thon's portrayal of Walter, the lonely man learning to be sociable again after his wife's passing, was indescribably moving. Telling his journey of pain and healing through piano playing was a nice touch.

On another plus side, I found that the movie felt longer than it really was. Hallmark movies often feel like they're speeding along with very little happening; Love Takes Flight felt as if a lot of development, emotion, and growth was occurring in a way that wasn't forced, rushed, or unnatural. The leads spent a realistic amount of time together to form a bond by the end of the film, although I do think a few more romantically charged moments could have led up to the ultimate confession -- this could've been as simple as incorporating a few lingering glances, or even just holding that hug after the daughter's piano recital a little bit longer.

Overall, I loved this movie. It was sweet, sentimental, and told a story worth telling.

Hallmark movie, Savannah hospital needs a helicopter pilot.

[TxMike · 8 May 2022]

Set and filmed in Savannah, for us it revived pleasant memories of our long weekend there a few years ago. A noted surgeon has developed a new transplant technique, she is looking for a hospital where she can make it work. A missing piece at the moment is no helicopter pilot, the transplant material has a very short required transit time.

They find a pilot, former military, but he is also attracted to the pretty and capable doctor who has become the hospital administrator. The attraction turns out mutual but, following the Hallmark formula, something gets in the way. Only at the last possible moment are they able to get on the same wavelength.

My wife and I enjoy Hallmark movies, they are pleasant entertainment and always under 90 minutes. As this one is. We watched it at home on DVD from our public library.

Love didn't quite take off for me.

[MIssM19 · 7/10 · 29 April 2019]

Lizzie is the COO of a hospital, and has an adorable 5 year-old, Quinn. At work, she hires a new EMS pilot, Charley, who happens to be the son of Quinn's new friend, Walter. These two find each other when they needed it the most and we see Charley and Lizzie beside them in this new adventure.

Writing the review as I watch the movie: Walter and Quinn are adorable. The mother-daughter relationship between Lizzie and Quinn is heartwarming. I think I have said it before but Nikki DeLoach, a favorite for the Hallmark scenery, always light up the room with her performance and her smile.

Jeff Hephner, new to the Hallmark scenery, but not my case (Jeff Clarke, to me) plays a confident pilot, with a hero complex who is there to fix things with his father after the passing of his mother.

I liked it. A fresh idea, instead of an overused plot, good supporting actors and a satisfying script. My only problem was that the main characters did not have enough time alone, which is require for the grand finale we are so accostume to. I didn't feel enough chemistry either, which honestly was disappointing.

The other relationships were more precious to me than the main one. It is worth the watch but won't become a favorite. Sorry Hallmark.

Great acting and good story ...

[Design88 · 9/10 · 25 May 2020]

I agree with the other reviewers that the film is refreshingly character driven and the acting is realistic instead of the usual Hallmark "overacting". I do also agree that the chemistry is missing between the two leads and he has shown himself to be everything she doesn't want in a partner. The subplot with Walter and Quinn is well developed and sweet. Really enjoyed this one and there was no town to save or boyfriend to erroneously distrust at the last moment .... This is a tender story dealing well with worthwhile topics...grief recovery, trust, friendships, and relationships.

Romantic relationship never gelled

[AlBedoya · 6/10 · 23 May 2020]

The plot and acting were generally good, but I never saw a good reason for the woman to be that attracted to the pilot. At the end, I was thinking that they would break up soon or if it got to marriage then it would end in divorce.

The Heart takes flight with this movie!

[ppetretich-1 · 10/10 · 28 April 2019]

This is a special Hallmark movie, it touches your heart in a beautiful way. The stories that connect the characters are like a wonderful tapestry. You will be remembering this movie for quite awhile!

Hallmark Movie Fan

Peter Petretich

Touching, Sentimental but not Romantic

[Lew777 · 7/10 · 23 May 2019]

I agree with the sentiments of MissM19 on this film. The heart-warming story surrounding Walter and his friendship with Nikki Deloach's daughter, Quinn was played beautifully. Nikki's relationship with her daughter - also good, as was Walter & Charley. The disappointment was the chemistry and growing attraction between the 2 leads. The acting was fine. I believe the writers came up short on developing their attraction for each other. They weren't close enough & Nikki's big speech at the end would've been great if only we felt them to love each other more ! I give a 7 but not for the romance.

take the B-side

[SnoopyStyle · 5/10 · 4 August 2019]

Dr. Lizzie Beauman (Nikki Deloach) is busy as a hospital administrator and a single mom to Quinn. The precocious Quinn befriends an elderly gentleman named Walter. Lizzie reluctantly hires Charley Allen (Jeff Hephner) as a helicopter pilot for a two week probation. It turns out that Charley's father is Walter.

It's a rather bland Hallmark romance. I think it pales in comparison to the daughter and the elderly father combination. I like that duo more although it's an awkward start. It's like an old timey record where the B-side is the hit. Quite frankly, that relationship has more potential for drama and melodrama. The A-side is rather forgettable.

One of the best.Hall Mark.movies

[vjf36 · 10/10 · 28 April 2019]

A special cast coupled with an excellent story Deroach and Nevin bring it home Little girl steals all the scenes

Doesn't quite soar but also doesn't stay on the ground

[TheLittleSongbird · 7/10 · 5 May 2022]

Other than Hallmark film completest sake, my main reason for seeing 'Love Takes Flight' was Nikki DeLoach. While her filmography is hit and miss, her performances have always been consistent in a good way. Was also interested to see whether it deserved its spot on the Hallmark Hall of Fame and do appreciate it when any film explores real life family relationships and conflicts, while Hallmark can do well and has done.

'Love Takes Flight' on the most part does this aspect well. While not being sure whether it is Hallmark Hall of Fame worthy, it is (even with its flaws) one of the better 2019 Hallmark films along with 'Love on the Menu', 'Love to the Rescue', 'Love and Sunshine' and 'The Christmas Club' for example. Though not as good as those films. 'Love Takes Flight' is far from perfect, but its sincerity was never in doubt and its good intentions laudable.

Am going to begin with the not so good. It is at its weakest with the central romantic relationship, which is not developed enough, the other relationships had a lot more heart and development whereas this one is too drifting in and out with not much distinction. The chemistry between DeLoach and Jeff Hephner is far from non-existent, their relationship is too underwritten.

Did think that some of the film dragged, especially in the early portions where the set up takes too long. Some of the dialogue is too on the sappy side.

However, a lot is good. DeLoach is just great in a charming and heartfelt performance. Hephner has a subtly natural charisma and matches DeLoach in the charm factor. The supporting cast are more than up to their level, with the standout being adorable and affecting Skylar Olivia Flanagan (neither cutesy or bratty). Did like the development given to the characters and appreciated that they felt like real people in real conflicts rather than typical ciphers. Nobody comes over as too perfect or has flaws exaggerated.

Other than the romantic relationships, the family relationships are done very well. Very heart-warming and moving, without being too treacly or heavy. The Charley and Quinn relationship is especially beautifully done, with the mother and daughter one close behind (one that was quite relatable to me).

It is a good looking film, especially the scenery. Something that Hallmark often delivered on, even in their misfires. The music isn't over-scored or too constant. The script isn't awkward and has a few amusing moments amongst the many very sweet and touching dramatic ones while keeping sentimentality at bay. The story is not innovative but clearly knew exactly what it wanted to be and do, and has lightness, warmth and charm. As well as well meaning honesty.

Summing up, worth a look. 7/10.

Eh, not a favorite

[LtlHippo · 1/10 · 28 February 2021]

No chemistry at all between the two leads. And why does a woman who runs a hospital think she knows more about landing a helicopter in bad weather than a trained pilot? She fires him on the spot after landing and then at the end of the movie, he's supposed to not take that job in Alaska to be with her?????? Guess he better sign up for unemployment. And strange times when a mom and her kid just show up at a strangers house for tea.

Well worth the watch

[Iwatchedthismovie · 10/10 · 1 May 2019]

This one had many sentimental moments and the story itself was touching. What stuck most, "we cross paths with certain people for a reason".

Good cast, good writing

[Jackbv123 · 10/10 · 6 September 2020]

This movie is not Lizzie and Charley's story. At least not solely. And it's important to see it that way. The problem with a TV movie over a book is that you can't tell both a romance story and another complex story in the time allowed and do them both justice. This movie tells Walter's story really well. That story heavily involves Quinn. It also involves Charley The writing and acting around that story is very good.

It would be really good if Lizzie and Charley's story could have enough screen time to tell their story as well as Walter's. I felt the hole where there should have been more chemistry. I'm sure most people did. If I only wanted to know their story, then I would be really disappointed and I would think that the story never sells the idea that Lizzie fell so completely for Charley. Given the time they had to work with, they did pretty well. Nikki DeLoach is perfect for this role as a hospital administrator who has to think about the big picture and who experience has taught to separate personal and profession. Recently DeLoach has given good performances in at least a couple of movies that go deep. (Two Turtle Doves with honorable mentions for Love to the Rescue and Reunited at Christmas. I noticed Stephen R. Moore directed 3 of these 4.)

I mentioned chemistry. The real chemistry in this movie was Skylar Olivia Flanagan, as the daughter, and Tom Thon as Walter. The scenes with them together sizzled with feeling.

The story itself has a lot of fresh things in it. Yes, it also has some very predictable things in it. That doesn't mean you still don't need a lot of Kleenex and more than just one scene.

My favorite dialogue: Lizzie: "Not in so many words." Barbara "How many words did you use?"

One Of My Favourites - Great Realistic Film With Some Depth

[dorothyexeter · 9/10 · 12 May 2021]

This certainly is one of my favourite feel good, heart warming films.

With all the black themed films and strife in our world, more of these types of films are necessary.

It is refreshing to see different scenarios and plot in this film with much more depth, than so many of the typical Hallmark films with the same plots and scenarios. Here, there is quality performances by all the actors and actresses.

Contrary to some of the reviews for this film, I feel that the two lead characters were solid, realistic, and heartwarming. What is chemistry? Is it supposed to be seen with sparks flying? I try not to slot people in pigeon holes, where they then become no more than robotic characters. Each person is an individual. This is what helps to make life exciting. After all, there are multitudes of people in this world. Thus, I love and appreciate that these two leads do not fall into any "typical Hallmark" character slot. Each of us shows love in different ways. I feel that the characters of both Lizzie (Nikki Deloach) and Charley (Jeff Hephner) were drawn to each other, which developed into a cherished love. Both appreciated the quality, strength, courage, and caring in each other, even though these characteristics were not overdone with more words than were necessary. Expression, action, and understanding was enough. Often, less is more, as was demonstrated here. Similar occurs with the relationship between Walter and Quinn, and the developing relationship between Walter and Charley.

So many true life aspects were covered. A confident veteran pilot (Charley) with a slight hero complex who becomes the EMS pilot who demonstrates his bravery and commitment. A dedicated single mom (Lizzie), who gives up part of her career for her daughter (Quinn) with a chronic illness that was not overemphasized. A grieving husband (Walter) from the loss of his wife, along with the grieving son (Charley) from the loss of his mother. The birth of a child by Lizzie's sister. All these characters intertwined through the evolution of their relationships with each other. All with real life imperfections that include problems and miscommunications, that get sorted out with a happy ending, as love, growth, and understanding overcomes all.

Of course, it would be wonderful if all issues ended this way in real life. :)

Different but draggy

[phd_travel · 5/10 · 29 September 2019]

A few differences from the usual Hallmark movie. A helicopter pilot and a hospital administrator are the characters. At least there is no small town business to be saved or some other done to death thing. The actors are quite believable. But the story is draggy. The side drama of Father and son Is boring.

Not a must watch.

Excellent movie

[musicwojo · 10/10 · 16 October 2019]

The actors are genuine and do a great job with the story. It's not just a Hallmark romance movie. It's got more of a full story that involves moving on after loss. Really a good one!

Con air

[anil-kulkarni-108-85663 · 4/10 · 3 April 2020]

Will this is a hallmark movie so what can you expect... The required schmaltz is high enough: Pretty people, great homes with gardens and art deco fronts, a calm sea nearby, appropriately low key grief tar requires healing, a cute kid that shows the way, of you know the drill. Is harmless enough of you're in the mood for that sort of thing. Watch if you're in the mood for an upper.

One of my current favorites

[wlamon3 · 9/10 · 5 May 2019]

The DS (Dumb Statement) light came on in the beginning (prop/rotor). But it was easily forgotten as the story unfolded. The actors and acting were all very good and convincing. A real plus is Savannah was really Savannah. It is now one of my current favorites. Roger Wilco, Over and Out.

Nikki DeLoach and Barbara Niven too, Heaven

[jewhitmer25 · 9/10 · 23 August 2021]

Loved this movie. It's a great multigenerational movie.

Nikki DeLoach as Dr Lizzie Beauman and Jeff Hephner as Charley Allen are terrific. This is my first movie with Jeff, hopefully Hallmark will use him again.

It's multigenerational because the first relationship we see is the budding friendship of 8 year old Quinn with the 80 something Walter, both desperately in need of a friend. Such a sweet friendship, young Quinn is distressed when her Grandmother (Barbara Niven) breaks her wrist and can no longer accompany Quinn at her piano recital. Lonely Walter who has seldom played the piano since his wife died steps up to be his young friends piano partner, And of course love blooms with Quinn's mother and Walter's son.

And intrigue - helicopter pilot Charley flies a dangerous mission during a severe storm to deliver a vital organ to a transplant recipient.

My advice - watch this film - great for families.

Lovely meaningful story

[skpn123 · 10/10 · 15 May 2019]

This movie is not just the same stereotype romance - has heart and soul and explores themes such as grief, loss, chronic illness and having the courage to live again.

Love Overrated!!!!

[agambre · 4/10 · 29 April 2019]

How did it become in the hallmark hall of fame? The story is way below average compared to other hallmark love stories. One time watch for me.

One of the best Hallmark movies ever!!!!

[majoq · 10/10 · 24 May 2019]

I loved it from beginning to end. Simple, but good. Sometimes less is more, and this movie has it all. I wish all the Hallmark movies were like this. It even left me thinking about a lot of things. It seemed real. The movie is about real people. Loving and fun ones. People with problems, with issues. And of course, a happy ending!