‘YOU HAD ME AT ALOHA’: JUST ONE FUN SUMMER ROMANCE

One of the Hallmark network’s favorite things to do is re-pair stars from previous movies. This is the trap this film falls into. While that’s not a bad thing per se, this one isn’t as good as it might be. you had me at aloha

You Had Me At Aloha (2021) Hallmark TV Film Review

Finding she has to reinvent her professional life is not something Paige (Pascale Hutton) anticipated needing. But after a disastrous episode of her travel show, she now settles in as a producer. When the host of their destination show ends his contract, the network looks for new talent in the form of daredevil, Ben (Kavan Smith).

Trouble is, after one awkward exchange (which the camera catches!), it would seem the network wants to test both Ben and Paige, as co-hosts! Off they go to Hawaii to film a season, all in the hopes of hyping a new look for their show.

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The concept of this film is fun, like anything, but I don’t think these actors suit their roles (or at least Kavan doesn’t). Additionally, there isn’t a “smooth sailing. start. The early editing feels really choppy (and yes, I realize party this is intentional) which makes the transitions “off.” The story just doesn’t have that good opening flow because of this crazier element.

I also don’t think this role best suits Kavan. For a couple of reasons. Pascale is better for her role, and anyone who likes them together (whether from When Calls the Heart or The Perfect Bride) will enjoy seeing them re-team again. There’s some fun moments between them, though I don’t think they have “enough” of them together to warrant the end. I also think the whole reason why Paige isn’t a host anymore is a little too silly.

All this to say that while, yes, I didn’t love You Had Me At Aloha, it’s still a fun summer romance. The setting makes for a perfect backdrop and anytime we get to see characters travel to places (beyond small hometowns!), it makes for a good time.

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Content: nothing to note, this one is the typical TV-G fare.

Photos: Hallmark / Crown Media Press