42 reviews
Classified love
'Love Classified' was mainly seen for Hallmark film completest sake. Their 2022 output, like all their previous years, was unsurprisingly uneven. With some highs, some lows and plenty somewhere in between. But considering the tumultuous couple of years, the standard generally could have been worse. Did quite like the idea of the story, was very interested to see how the film would balance serious family drama with quirkiness and romance, with more than one storyline.
All of that are things that Hallmark have done a number of times, the execution varying between mostly well, half and half and waste of potential. 'Love Classified', the fourth Spring into Love film, is somewhere in between the mostly well and half and half extremes. As far as Hallmark's 2022 output goes, 'Love Classified' is one of the decent somewhere in between films. A lot of good things can be seen here, but the film is also easy to criticise.
It is my view that the film was on the over-stuffed side. It includes multiple subplots and it did feel like it was trying to cram too much in. It could have afforded to include less and do more and flesh out more a couple of strands, next to nothing is done with the Emilia and bookstore owner strand and that felt like superfluous filler. Instead it could have developed Emilia more, focused more on the reconcilliation and done a better job at making her easy to identify with and understand her past mistakes, because that felt rushed and under-developed when there were little signs of learning from her mistakes for much of the film. Which is why the ending felt too unrealistically neat.
There were pacing issues too, sometimes dragging and then the backing and forthing between subplots was at times jumpy. The tantrums and anger of the daughter, while understandable, did come over as very over-heated and over the top.
On the other hand, a lot is done well. It is very well acted, with a very persuasive, moving performance from Melora Hardin (personally didn't think she overacted at all), regardless of my reservations with Emilia as a character. The family relationship drama was very true to life and relatable to anybody with any family issues and the chemistry throughout didn't feel forced or phoned in. Mostly the characters were written with sincerity and were not too hard to relate to. Had no problem whatsoever with the diversity, the complete opposite (absolutely loving that Hallmark is embracing equal inconclusivity), and don't know why one part of a storyline, which is not that big, is made out to be something that ruined the film.
While there is a lot of emphasis on the serious aspects, which is done honestly and movingly, there were also plenty of cute, feel good moments that made the film a very pleasant light hearted watch. Production values are lovely, especially the scenery. The music is not too loud or used too much. The script is witty and heartfelt, always sounding natural and never juvenile or tasteless.
Summing up, uneven but with a lot of good things. 6/10.
All of that are things that Hallmark have done a number of times, the execution varying between mostly well, half and half and waste of potential. 'Love Classified', the fourth Spring into Love film, is somewhere in between the mostly well and half and half extremes. As far as Hallmark's 2022 output goes, 'Love Classified' is one of the decent somewhere in between films. A lot of good things can be seen here, but the film is also easy to criticise.
It is my view that the film was on the over-stuffed side. It includes multiple subplots and it did feel like it was trying to cram too much in. It could have afforded to include less and do more and flesh out more a couple of strands, next to nothing is done with the Emilia and bookstore owner strand and that felt like superfluous filler. Instead it could have developed Emilia more, focused more on the reconcilliation and done a better job at making her easy to identify with and understand her past mistakes, because that felt rushed and under-developed when there were little signs of learning from her mistakes for much of the film. Which is why the ending felt too unrealistically neat.
There were pacing issues too, sometimes dragging and then the backing and forthing between subplots was at times jumpy. The tantrums and anger of the daughter, while understandable, did come over as very over-heated and over the top.
On the other hand, a lot is done well. It is very well acted, with a very persuasive, moving performance from Melora Hardin (personally didn't think she overacted at all), regardless of my reservations with Emilia as a character. The family relationship drama was very true to life and relatable to anybody with any family issues and the chemistry throughout didn't feel forced or phoned in. Mostly the characters were written with sincerity and were not too hard to relate to. Had no problem whatsoever with the diversity, the complete opposite (absolutely loving that Hallmark is embracing equal inconclusivity), and don't know why one part of a storyline, which is not that big, is made out to be something that ruined the film.
While there is a lot of emphasis on the serious aspects, which is done honestly and movingly, there were also plenty of cute, feel good moments that made the film a very pleasant light hearted watch. Production values are lovely, especially the scenery. The music is not too loud or used too much. The script is witty and heartfelt, always sounding natural and never juvenile or tasteless.
Summing up, uneven but with a lot of good things. 6/10.
- TheLittleSongbird
- Jun 9, 2023
- Permalink
Refreshingly Original
I've been binging several hallmark romances since the Covid lockdown started. A majority are, in my opinion, formulaic. Love, Classifieds is the first one that I've seen that is seems real. Less restrained, spontaneous, not-so-perfect-&-shiny. To me it's a refreshing take. Even this movie makes a statement about that. Love is unpredictable, murky, imperfect & real. So much more rewarding. Loved this movie! Highly recommend!
NOTE: Would love it if they made it a series. Just saying...
NOTE: Would love it if they made it a series. Just saying...
- libbyhatch21-1
- Apr 23, 2022
- Permalink
Great acting, love the concept, story was bland
- westlingks
- Jun 17, 2022
- Permalink
Mother, a successful author, works to reunite with her adult son and daughter.
Set in New York but filmed in Canada, this Hallmark movie doesn't quite follow the common Hallmark story arc. Some of it is silly in spots but overall it tells an interesting and entertaining story with good characters.
Emelia Bloom travels home for a reading of her latest novel and a book signing. Both her adult son, an artist, and her adult daughter, who owns a flower and plant shop, are surprised. She had been gone five years, right after their dad, her husband, died and the children had heard little to nothing from her.
So, much of the story is mom trying to reunite with her two adult children. Her son seems more willing, her daughter is really a hard case.
Melora Hardin, from here in Houston, is very good as the author and mom, Emilia Bloom. As a side note, way back when she was a teenager was chosen to play Jennifer, the girlfriend of Marty McFly in 'Back to the Future.' However, when Eric Stoltz was fired and very short Michael J Fox was brought in, she would have been too tall so she didn't get the role that went to Claudia Wells. Funny how random events can have such an influence.
Anyway my wife and I watched this movie at home, streaming on Amazon Prime, we enjoyed it.
Emelia Bloom travels home for a reading of her latest novel and a book signing. Both her adult son, an artist, and her adult daughter, who owns a flower and plant shop, are surprised. She had been gone five years, right after their dad, her husband, died and the children had heard little to nothing from her.
So, much of the story is mom trying to reunite with her two adult children. Her son seems more willing, her daughter is really a hard case.
Melora Hardin, from here in Houston, is very good as the author and mom, Emilia Bloom. As a side note, way back when she was a teenager was chosen to play Jennifer, the girlfriend of Marty McFly in 'Back to the Future.' However, when Eric Stoltz was fired and very short Michael J Fox was brought in, she would have been too tall so she didn't get the role that went to Claudia Wells. Funny how random events can have such an influence.
Anyway my wife and I watched this movie at home, streaming on Amazon Prime, we enjoyed it.
All About Trudy.
- rebekahrox
- Apr 18, 2022
- Permalink
Interesting but slow moving
- Kenkeller-98-620553
- Apr 16, 2022
- Permalink
Amorphous blather
6.3 stars.
A bunch of pretty people trying to illustrate some complicated relationships, all centered on one family. My interpretation of this film is the writer(s) took several anecdotal instances from random artistic gen z'ers, millennials, and one gen x'er and connected them in an attempt to create a fascinating and entertaining show. What they forget is that people like myself who were not weaned on a smartphone, will fail to catch the nuances and full meaning of the interactions and concepts. It's like a 5th grader trying to watch "Rick and Morty". Said 5th grader will probably have a bunch of laughs, yet fail to understand 80% of the intended message.
I experimented with my viewing experience by watching the first 30 minutes, skipping the next hour, then watching the last 30 minutes. Hallmark usually places all the good stuff in the last 30 minutes, and the first 30 minutes is to build a foundation so I can enjoy the last. It worked and I assimilated all the relevant data.
I As soon as the LGB kicked in "Love, Classified" lost some of its authenticity and my interest dwindled. I simply do not relate, therefore any sort of banter or chemistry between two of the same gender is wasted on me. Might as well fast forward. And yes, I guess you can call me close-minded, but I cringe when same sex couples are affectionate. It's foreign, alien, unnatural to my sensibilities. Just being honest. What shall I do, become more accustomed to it? Honest question.
The acting was above average, the dialogue had clever moments, but this film makes me feel a bit out of touch with society. Am I becoming obsolete? I bet many a person age 50 and above might be asking themself the same question.
A bunch of pretty people trying to illustrate some complicated relationships, all centered on one family. My interpretation of this film is the writer(s) took several anecdotal instances from random artistic gen z'ers, millennials, and one gen x'er and connected them in an attempt to create a fascinating and entertaining show. What they forget is that people like myself who were not weaned on a smartphone, will fail to catch the nuances and full meaning of the interactions and concepts. It's like a 5th grader trying to watch "Rick and Morty". Said 5th grader will probably have a bunch of laughs, yet fail to understand 80% of the intended message.
I experimented with my viewing experience by watching the first 30 minutes, skipping the next hour, then watching the last 30 minutes. Hallmark usually places all the good stuff in the last 30 minutes, and the first 30 minutes is to build a foundation so I can enjoy the last. It worked and I assimilated all the relevant data.
I As soon as the LGB kicked in "Love, Classified" lost some of its authenticity and my interest dwindled. I simply do not relate, therefore any sort of banter or chemistry between two of the same gender is wasted on me. Might as well fast forward. And yes, I guess you can call me close-minded, but I cringe when same sex couples are affectionate. It's foreign, alien, unnatural to my sensibilities. Just being honest. What shall I do, become more accustomed to it? Honest question.
The acting was above average, the dialogue had clever moments, but this film makes me feel a bit out of touch with society. Am I becoming obsolete? I bet many a person age 50 and above might be asking themself the same question.
Same stuff, different angle
- drbreakwell
- Apr 30, 2022
- Permalink
Ignore the first few minutes and stick with it
I nearly gave up on this in the first few minutes with gen z and ads thing as it was quite annoying, however this evolved into a refreshing story and film.
I loved the development of the storyline with the mother, from the normal shallow character, she showed hidden depths to her personality and the actor played it with a fluff and lightness, not dwelling too much on the health issues.
The two romantic leads showed chemistry and it was a nice, gentle approach to their romance. Both actors certainly have a future! I loved the supporting cast, although it is quite sad to see one of the two previously Hallmark lead males only doing a cameo as a barman. Older women watch this too. The mother/old friend romantic story was lovely to see. Overall, a well balanced and written film, which will appeal to all ages.
I loved the development of the storyline with the mother, from the normal shallow character, she showed hidden depths to her personality and the actor played it with a fluff and lightness, not dwelling too much on the health issues.
The two romantic leads showed chemistry and it was a nice, gentle approach to their romance. Both actors certainly have a future! I loved the supporting cast, although it is quite sad to see one of the two previously Hallmark lead males only doing a cameo as a barman. Older women watch this too. The mother/old friend romantic story was lovely to see. Overall, a well balanced and written film, which will appeal to all ages.
- roseytimmisnorton
- Jun 3, 2023
- Permalink
Hallmark drama
Emilia Bloom (Melora Hardin) is a highly successful spy novel writer who is estranged from her adult children, Taylor Bloom (Katherine McNamara) and Zach Bloom (Max Lloyd-Jones). She left them after they lost their father. She arranges a book signing at the hometown book store and tries to reconnect with them. Taylor tries an unusual dating app and is surprised when she's pair with a woman, Franki (Arienne Mandi).
This is a Hallmark. It's interesting for a couple of interesting actresses not normally seen on Hallmark. It's doing a gay romance which is unusual for Hallmark. It all adds up to something interesting without it all working. Sometimes, I think the movie should do either concentrate on the family conflict or the gay romance, but not both. They don't compliment each other unless Emilia is shown to be anti-gay. It's still interesting.
This is a Hallmark. It's interesting for a couple of interesting actresses not normally seen on Hallmark. It's doing a gay romance which is unusual for Hallmark. It all adds up to something interesting without it all working. Sometimes, I think the movie should do either concentrate on the family conflict or the gay romance, but not both. They don't compliment each other unless Emilia is shown to be anti-gay. It's still interesting.
- SnoopyStyle
- Sep 23, 2023
- Permalink
In no universe is this a slice of life
I keep giving RomComs "one more chance" but, each time, I am, once again, disappointed. The overacting in by 2 lead and one supporting player, set my teeth on edge. The filmmakers decided all 7 featured characters should be single at the beginning of the film and, predictable as it was, should be... well, I won't spoil it. The plot hinges around a fractured family, which miraculously (opps, almost spoiled it again. I better stop reviewing). I give this film a 5 (meh) out of 10. {RomCom}
- nancyldraper
- May 17, 2022
- Permalink
Absolutely adorable movie!
So disappointed
More information about the subject matter should be included in the description so that viewers can make a decision if they want to watch it as well as in what company they wish to watch it. To be clear on this review - to each his or her own, no issue with that. It was easy to fast forward past parts that we don't wish to view but had all of us known, we'd have skipped this one entirely. In the future, we will be waiting for reviews before watching.
- KellyKMovies
- Apr 24, 2022
- Permalink
Tried to be cool and failed
This movie is trying way too hard to be cool or relevant or Gen z friendly...it failed, miserably. Only got about 10 mins in and I gave up from boredom and sore eyes from all the eye rolling. The characters had no good lines, you aren't at all invested, the plot was muddy and confusing, the acting was under and over played by different characters. Hot mess. Skip it!
- mjking-17200
- May 11, 2022
- Permalink
More Hallmark Movies Like This!
Not only did I enjoy the romantic aspects of this movie, but I absolutely loved the dynamic between the mother and daughter. Melora Hardin was excellent and I love seeing a relationship like Taylor/Franki on Hallmark.
- reasontoshine
- Aug 20, 2022
- Permalink
An attempt to be timely in their inclusivity falls a little flat for my taste.
Famous romance author Emilia Bloom comes home on her book tour...at least that's what she says, she is really home to take it easy after suffering from a heart attack. Unfortunately, she "abandoned" her adult children after their father who was her beloved husband passed away. The daughter, Taylor Bloom, who is altogether too whiny is having difficulty forgiving her mother.
There is a lesbian and a gay storyline in addition to the death of a parent, just in case that isn't your cup of tea-you are forewarned.
The character of Taylor was far too needy for an adult. It seems like she could use a big dose of tough love (I did appreciate that the cardiologist Franki does give her a little-kudos to the writers on that).
I have no issue with love "being on a spectrum" or with lesbianism (my best friend is actually a lesbian), but the idea that you can change someone from being straight to gay is just as ridiculous as the idea that you can make someone gay straight! I am sorry but that needs to be said...and frankly if you were Franki, why would you want to? There are plenty of wonderful lesbians out there.
There was a lot of effort to bring this story into today's speak...which I guess I appreciate, but overall this was a fairly sad and depressing story that had little to no actual plot and lost my interest fairly quickly. Honestly, I think lesbian cardiologist Franki could have her own show...and she should get better script writers!
This was a miss for me and I can't really recommend it. There are better love stories for just about all walks of life out there.
There is a lesbian and a gay storyline in addition to the death of a parent, just in case that isn't your cup of tea-you are forewarned.
The character of Taylor was far too needy for an adult. It seems like she could use a big dose of tough love (I did appreciate that the cardiologist Franki does give her a little-kudos to the writers on that).
I have no issue with love "being on a spectrum" or with lesbianism (my best friend is actually a lesbian), but the idea that you can change someone from being straight to gay is just as ridiculous as the idea that you can make someone gay straight! I am sorry but that needs to be said...and frankly if you were Franki, why would you want to? There are plenty of wonderful lesbians out there.
There was a lot of effort to bring this story into today's speak...which I guess I appreciate, but overall this was a fairly sad and depressing story that had little to no actual plot and lost my interest fairly quickly. Honestly, I think lesbian cardiologist Franki could have her own show...and she should get better script writers!
This was a miss for me and I can't really recommend it. There are better love stories for just about all walks of life out there.
Wonderful cast and great storyline
It's an easy watch but engaging and has a great cast attached, especially Arienne Mandi and Melora Hardin. Melora Hardin is so funny, you can tell it comes naturally to her and Arienne is a wonderful actress. I've only seen her in The L Word Gen Q but instantly was like, 'yep, she's going to go far'. Her acting is so natural and believable and seems to really put her heart and soul into the role. I love the storyline of Love, Classified and would definitely recommend anyone watching it. Of course, it has a happy ending for the lesbians! Which is, unfortunately, quite rare!! But there was no unnecessary drama which was much appreciated.
- beepea-90999
- Dec 4, 2022
- Permalink
surprising
Just surprising because the familiar recipe of Hallmark is applied with a serious dose of courage. Not exactly romance but realistic exploration of the reactios about death of beloved one, selfishness gesture, return, reconnection with victims of a too egolatric gesture and , in same measure, beautiful eulogy of friendship.
Sure , some unrealistic situations , the shield of gay romance and the too forced end but courageous perspectivies, indie air , decent acting, nice moral.
Each of them makes surprising this film in which you discover new touches and useful influences .
So, just pleasant and, for this, in some measure, provocative.
Sure , some unrealistic situations , the shield of gay romance and the too forced end but courageous perspectivies, indie air , decent acting, nice moral.
Each of them makes surprising this film in which you discover new touches and useful influences .
So, just pleasant and, for this, in some measure, provocative.
- Kirpianuscus
- Feb 3, 2024
- Permalink
So sweet it could be a cake topping?
I saw about 15 to 20 mins of this, (in the middle), by accident having been changing channels.
I can't believe how sugary it was, could perhaps be re-used as some overly sweet creamy topping for an already rich cake?
I gather this was by the Hallmark Channel, a firm I know for greetings card, usually twee and often flowery?
The dialogue was so banal I doubt the actors knew whether to laugh or cry after uttering the words, but I couldn't see why such dreadful pap had been made at all?!
Is there some vast audience of middle-aged (plus) white women in Middle America who've nothing better to do than watch such piffle on daytime TV, is that what Hallmark Channel is for, filling in time with barely moving wallpaper?!
I can't believe how sugary it was, could perhaps be re-used as some overly sweet creamy topping for an already rich cake?
I gather this was by the Hallmark Channel, a firm I know for greetings card, usually twee and often flowery?
The dialogue was so banal I doubt the actors knew whether to laugh or cry after uttering the words, but I couldn't see why such dreadful pap had been made at all?!
Is there some vast audience of middle-aged (plus) white women in Middle America who've nothing better to do than watch such piffle on daytime TV, is that what Hallmark Channel is for, filling in time with barely moving wallpaper?!
- Tony-Holmes
- Sep 8, 2023
- Permalink
A love story between mother and children.
Author Emelia Bloom (Melora Hardin) is coming back to her home town during her book tour to try and reconnect with her children whom she hasn't seen in 5 years. We follow her, Taylor and Zach's point of view of their lives and their reunion. Zach is an artist and is currently working on a mural for a bookstore and Taylor has her own plant shop.
I didn't know what I was walking into and I absolutely love it. We have a cameo from Paul Campbell (I love him) and from Matthew Kevin Anderson who is a Hallmark frequent flyer as well.
I thought it was quite refreshing from what Hallmark usually offers, several storylines intertwined that wrapped up in one. And most importantly, that apparently the homophobics didn't understand, it is not the love story of two strangers or two lovers who reunited but one of the purest love there is: one between mother and child.
What I loved was that it is the story of real people: there is a LGTB+ couple, the dificulty of coming out to one's family (barely acknoledged but still there), the struggle of loss and health issues., the grudge against parents, competitive yet supportive siblings, you know, real life stories?
This ending leaves room for a sequel, which I would watch.
I didn't know what I was walking into and I absolutely love it. We have a cameo from Paul Campbell (I love him) and from Matthew Kevin Anderson who is a Hallmark frequent flyer as well.
I thought it was quite refreshing from what Hallmark usually offers, several storylines intertwined that wrapped up in one. And most importantly, that apparently the homophobics didn't understand, it is not the love story of two strangers or two lovers who reunited but one of the purest love there is: one between mother and child.
What I loved was that it is the story of real people: there is a LGTB+ couple, the dificulty of coming out to one's family (barely acknoledged but still there), the struggle of loss and health issues., the grudge against parents, competitive yet supportive siblings, you know, real life stories?
This ending leaves room for a sequel, which I would watch.
Super cute movie, gorgeous cast
It's fantastic to see Hallmark evolve. Romance is for everyone, and love is love. These actresses had great chemistry. Can't wait to see more from them both. Highly recommend.
Love through different lenses
Surprised in a good way. The writers have managed to introduce a very sweet, yet a very relatable feel good story here. They 100% chose the right actresses to breathe life into the characters and bring the story across,and succeeded in portraying the fact that Love has a unexpected way of finding you when you least expect it regardless of gender.
- hope-saunders-20325
- Apr 16, 2022
- Permalink
Folks fell in love
This is one of the best Hallmark movies I've seen in a while. Not the same silly setups. The characters had depth and the story moved well. All of the actors did a fantastic job. Melora was amazing as always. She was the heart of the movie. I also love that the romance was two women. The scene of the first meeting between Taylor and Franki was very romantic. The way the cameras moved between them as they talked. You could feel their growing interest. One reviewer said it was "woke" and didn't appreciate it. Something along the lines of beliefs being forced on folks. Nine out of ten movies on Hallmark is man/woman. So the idea that any LGBTQ+ stories is forced is absurd. Folks fall in love and this couple was two women. I loved this movie. I taped it because I was out of town. I'm keeping it so I can watch it again. This one is a 10/10 for me.
Loved the modern storyline!
Loved the fast paced modern storyline. The connections become apparent as the movie proceeds to tell the character's stories. It didn't flow well at certain spots in the story when it just jumped ahead in time, but overall I thought the story was well written. Love and family relationships are always complicated and this movie addresses these aspects in a unique manner.
- sandpark-70052
- Apr 16, 2022
- Permalink
Absolutely Adorable!
Another well done Hallmark fav :)
So happy to see the expansion of their content as a step towards including ALL humans. It's been a long time, but they're finally there! Great actors in this one too!!
So happy to see the expansion of their content as a step towards including ALL humans. It's been a long time, but they're finally there! Great actors in this one too!!
- portermelissa
- Apr 18, 2022
- Permalink