atlasmb

Jenna (Laura Osnes) is in training in San Francisco to become a master sommelier. She goes home to the family winery for her parent's anniversary party and the annual wine festival. There she meets the new master winemaker, Marcelo (Juan Pablo Di Pace), who is introducing the natural approach to viticulture. Jenna is reluctant to embrace the new methods due to concerns about consistency in products, but Marcelo turns out to be a persuasive guy.

I am not an oenophile, but I was drawn into this Hallmark film by its story, the beautiful landscapes, the enjoyable relationship between the two leads, and the culture of the grape.

Juan Pablo has become a favorite of mine. Here again, he gives a performance that feels authentic and likable. He and Ms. Osnes have good chemistry. It is very satisfying to watch their characters get close and acknowledge their common love for the business and the artistry of winemaking.

This heart-warming Hallmark film deserves a watch.

Precocious 10-year-old Californian Ruby (Cora Bella) has mixed emotions when she learns that the next school project will involve family ancestry and constructing a family tree. Though a happy child, she only has her mother, Amelia (Sarah Drew). Her birth was the result of IVF, and the sperm donor is unknown.

Amelia agrees that Ruby can use a genetic test to see if any family connections might be found in the general public. Surprisingly, a match is found, leading to the identification of TJ (Juan Pablo Di Pace) as the donor. Amelia decides to contact him and finds that he is a single musician, with a rich Hispanic heritage and vast family connections. Amelia allows Ruby and TJ to meet, and a relationship develops, under the watchful eye of Amelia who does not want her daughter to be disappointed.

As feelings deepen, the stakes grow higher. Especially since TJ's life goals are dedicated to success in music, which can mean long months on the road.

A strong cast, enjoyable music, excellent writing, romantic chemistry, and strong production values make this one of the best Hallmark films. I especially enjoyed the performance of Juan Pablo Di Pace. I expect him to gain many fans from this film.

Madeline's (Jocelyn Hudo) fiancé breaks up with her just before their wedding because she is not spontaneous. Her sister Harley convinces her to visit their honeymoon spot, Niagara Falls, anyway, since the accommodations were paid for. And it would give her a chance to show him that he was wrong about her.

At the falls, the two women go for their arranged tour, and Mike (Dan Jeannotte) is assigned as their guide. Things do not go smoothly, and Madeline---who really is not flexible or spontaneous---complains continuously. Fortunately, Mike does not give up easily. He mends their fractured relationship and spends considerable time convincing Madeline that she can be adventurous. She slowly learns to live outside of her comfort zone.

The best parts of the film are the numerous shots of the falls and the surrounding area. It's like a panoramic travelogue that, no doubt, will spur actual bookings to the Niagara area.