'Hidden Gems' (2022)

Opening thoughts: When Hallmark have films set abroad (i.e. France, Italy, Belgium, Hawaii, Fiji), one is guaranteed stunning scenery which has always been the case even in the misfires. Hallmark has always varied in their films abroad when it comes to the story and characters, some are charming and light-hearted with characters worth connecting with, others have very thin and predictable stories with over flawed character writing. Some also feel like too much of a travelogue.

There is a bit of both extremes with 'Hidden Gems'. Luckily, mostly charming and light-hearted in the story even with bumps along the way, while uneven in the character writing. It is a decent start to the 2022 Summer Nights films, which was somewhat hit and miss but could have been worse (like the previous 2022 seasonal blocks). Something that was not unexpected as all the previous years' Summer Nights blocks have been variable, some faring worse than 2022's though. 'Hidden Gems' falls short of being a gem, but it is not a film to stay hidden.

Good things: 'Hidden Gems' is successful in many areas. The best aspect is the Hawaiian scenery, which is absolutely breath-taking and made me want to book tickets to go. It's beautifully shot too, underwater is so vibrant. The music is pleasant enough and fits at least. The script on the whole flows well and has a playful lightness and warm heart.

Story-wise, 'Hidden Gems' isn't perfect but on the whole it is securely paced and is cute and charming. Hunter King and Beau Mirchoff, in a refreshing change from Hallmark regular actors in the lead roles, have a witty and heartfelt chemistry together, and both give committed and appealing performances individually. Each playing with easy going charm and not overdoing any mannerisms. The supporting cast, most unknown names to me, are solid support. The character writing is flawed, but they did feel more than just mere stereotypes and do grow.

Bad things: It is a long way from perfect though. It is spoilt quite a lot by a far too unrealistically pat ending that didn't feel logical considering the way the characters behave. This reviewer also has never liked these kinds of endings and has often found them illogical and jarring, like here. Will agree that the initial attitudes between the two lead characters are very overdone in the hostility to a mean spirited degree, their chemistry to begin with as a result was a little unpleasant to watch especially with Mirchoff's character being so hard to like.

Did think that some of the conflict was low on tension and was as strained as the hostility, while the changes of heart were a bit too rushed for my liking.

Closing thoughts: Concluding, above average if inconsistent.

6/10.

I know this is the whole plot line but it just bothered me so much she wore this precious irreplaceable ring that she needs to function in life without having a breakdown into the ocean! On the plus side, loved Hawaii- it's so beautiful. Wished we could see more of it in this movie. On the downside, the side story of the main character wanting to become a marine biologist and seemed to use her sister's wedding as just a reason to get into the program and finish the degree which I didn't really like. Most of the movie where they should be searching for this ring was spent doing everything else. I didn't like that the guy spent his life savings to get that ring back which she'll probably lose again in the ocean since she's staying there forever. She doesn't seem THAT appreciative of the gesture. The ending was kinda slapped together and not that meaningful. If you watch it without playing attention to the story it's a lot better!

7.7 stars.

There is love in the air in the tropics with a beautiful Hawaiian landscape and a destination wedding. The main focus is the maid of honor trying to figure out what direction to take her own life, and meanwhile she falls head over heals (ever so progressively) for a local diver and shop owner. What's not to love about this adventure? There is everything exciting to be found in "Hidden Gems". The chemistry between the leads is a tangible young love, the bride and groom are preparing for their beach wedding, mom and dad are a nice addition to the cast, the concierge is an extra special quirky and fun character. This hidden gem of a film is all you need in order to vicariously enjoy a sweet little Hawaiian vacation. This is a far cry from the usual Hallmark of mountains and arctic scenery. The cast is harmonious in providing a particularly smooth and fun experience in this luxurious pre-wedding atmosphere. Who wouldn't yearn to fly to any island resort after seeing "hidden Gems"?

I enjoyed this movie for the sweet romance. The basic plot is the maid of honor loses a precious ring given to her by her late grandmother. She hires the local diving guide/hunk to help her find it, and together they embark on an adventure that includes diving, sailing, dancing, and some smooches. "Hidden Gems" is a breath of fresh equatorial air.