In the hands of some of Hallmark's actor stables, this could have been a very schmaltzy, saccharined dud. However the seasoned & beautiful talents of Taylor Cole and a restrained but able support from Russ Paevey, elevated the film to something half-decent. No real surprises as a Matchmaker who attempts to find a match for an entrepreneurial Stay-Single guy, but begins to discover that maybe she is his ideal match ! The animals were definitely cute !
27 Reviews
Good for a St. Valentine's evening
marius_ma20 February 2021
Diva Universal (the successor of Hallmark Channel in Romania) broadcasted Matching Hearts in the evening of St. Valentine's Day and I really enjoyed it. Traditional H.C. recipe, which supported them in having a loyal and increasing audience and fan base (which probably do not regularly watch blockbusters such as Die Hard, Triple X or Poltergeist) and usually making very profitable moves.
Yes, this is the typical Hallmark winter romance movie, with the plot closely following the two lead characters, which "accidentally" meet every 5 minutes, slowly come together, then around min. 70 there is a twist and the two decide to go separate ways, and the long awaited final kiss around min. 85, end credits. Solid performance by both Taylor Cole and Ryan Paevey and pretty decent chemistry between the two of them. Yes, would recommend it even for those which are not fans of this kind of movies.
Special note for Taylor Cole, since she has all the due ingredients (i.e. outstanding beauty, talent, charm, versatility and incredible beautiful eyes) to play in the same league as, say, Amber Heard or Scarlett Johansson. But, who knows, maybe she decided she had enough during her modelling career and thereafter and now only wants to enjoy the beauty of life with her new husband, producer Cameron Larson? BTW, I read that this movie might be inspired by Taylor's real life, as she was repeatedly trying to match old friend Cameron with several of her friends, until the man finally understood that Taylor is the Chosen One. The couple married last June. Nice!
Good to see that, despite ongoing pandemic and worldwide lockdown, Hallmark still managed to come out with a number of decent titles in 2020, and "Matching Hearts" is probably one of the best.
Yes, this is the typical Hallmark winter romance movie, with the plot closely following the two lead characters, which "accidentally" meet every 5 minutes, slowly come together, then around min. 70 there is a twist and the two decide to go separate ways, and the long awaited final kiss around min. 85, end credits. Solid performance by both Taylor Cole and Ryan Paevey and pretty decent chemistry between the two of them. Yes, would recommend it even for those which are not fans of this kind of movies.
Special note for Taylor Cole, since she has all the due ingredients (i.e. outstanding beauty, talent, charm, versatility and incredible beautiful eyes) to play in the same league as, say, Amber Heard or Scarlett Johansson. But, who knows, maybe she decided she had enough during her modelling career and thereafter and now only wants to enjoy the beauty of life with her new husband, producer Cameron Larson? BTW, I read that this movie might be inspired by Taylor's real life, as she was repeatedly trying to match old friend Cameron with several of her friends, until the man finally understood that Taylor is the Chosen One. The couple married last June. Nice!
Good to see that, despite ongoing pandemic and worldwide lockdown, Hallmark still managed to come out with a number of decent titles in 2020, and "Matching Hearts" is probably one of the best.
Nice match
TheLittleSongbird24 March 2022
The premise is another one of those very unoriginal but potentially sweet and inoffensive. Both leads Taylor Cole and Ryan Paevey are hit and miss for me as actors, and it is very dependent on the way their roles are written. When her character is likeable, Cole is charming. When the writers go overboard on the character flaws, she comes over as cold. Paevey similarly can be subtly charming when a character is written well, but he can be wooden too.
'Matching Hearts' is one of the 2020 Love Ever After films from Hallmark. And it is a pretty decent one, and a vast improvement on the previous 2020 Love Ever After film 'A Valentine's Match'. It is far from perfect and it is not great, but it also could have been a lot worse if unoriginality was taken too far and if the cast suffered from having poorly written characters. While having issues with the story, other Hallmark films (and this is including quite a lot of those from 2020) fare far worse in regard to the characters.
A lot works here in 'Matching Hearts'. It looks good, especially the scenery which is lovely. Other Hallmark films fare a lot worse when it comes to having ill fitting and intrusive music, neither of which were an issue really with me here. While the script is not Oscar worthy material, it at least has a natural flow and doesn't come over as too cheesy, schmaltzy or waffly.
Generally the story has a warm centre, is light-hearted and doesn't feel dull. The supporting cast all do solid work. Cole brings a lot of charm and confidence to a character that is hardly un-rootable and has strengths and flaws.
Paevey to me was less good, he has appealing moments but he underplays his underwritten role too much and comes over as wooden. There is definitely chemistry between him and Cole and the relationship is not neglected, but the relationship itself could have been better and more realistically developed. Just found it too rushed and the outcome is too abrupt.
While the story was better than expected, there are very few surprises and very little new. Basically standard Hallmark with no real variation.
In summary, nice film. 7/10.
'Matching Hearts' is one of the 2020 Love Ever After films from Hallmark. And it is a pretty decent one, and a vast improvement on the previous 2020 Love Ever After film 'A Valentine's Match'. It is far from perfect and it is not great, but it also could have been a lot worse if unoriginality was taken too far and if the cast suffered from having poorly written characters. While having issues with the story, other Hallmark films (and this is including quite a lot of those from 2020) fare far worse in regard to the characters.
A lot works here in 'Matching Hearts'. It looks good, especially the scenery which is lovely. Other Hallmark films fare a lot worse when it comes to having ill fitting and intrusive music, neither of which were an issue really with me here. While the script is not Oscar worthy material, it at least has a natural flow and doesn't come over as too cheesy, schmaltzy or waffly.
Generally the story has a warm centre, is light-hearted and doesn't feel dull. The supporting cast all do solid work. Cole brings a lot of charm and confidence to a character that is hardly un-rootable and has strengths and flaws.
Paevey to me was less good, he has appealing moments but he underplays his underwritten role too much and comes over as wooden. There is definitely chemistry between him and Cole and the relationship is not neglected, but the relationship itself could have been better and more realistically developed. Just found it too rushed and the outcome is too abrupt.
While the story was better than expected, there are very few surprises and very little new. Basically standard Hallmark with no real variation.
In summary, nice film. 7/10.
Plot and Cast
bonitawhytehead18 February 2020
The plot of match making has been used before in other Hallmark movies. Taylor Cole (Julia) changing the Valentine's day party without obtaining her boss's permission is done everyday and people don't get fired. Nice to see a diverse cast for a change not just one of each race.
I actually had low expectations for this...
MIssM197 August 2020
Julia works as a matchmaker (is that really a thing?) and she meets Daniel, an entrepreneur who claims that if you want to succeed, you should stay single. So, Julia's company plans to set him with a date in order to get more clients and advertise.
I'm not gonna lie, I enjoyed it. I may be biased, Taylor Cole is one of my favourite leading ladies. The plot was kind of stupid and at times it didn't made sense (changing things without a boss' approval? Nope). I couldn't care less about Ryan's character, Daniel. I don't dislike him, but he always plays his characters in the same way.
The reason I give this 7 stars? (Other than Taylor Cole) A diverse cast and even the hint of a same-sex couple at the end. Which i'm all in for (this is actually funny, because I saw today a trailer for Hallmark movies that does include a same sex couple and people are mad, but I couldn't be happier.)
I'm not gonna watch again, but I'm glad I did.
I'm not gonna lie, I enjoyed it. I may be biased, Taylor Cole is one of my favourite leading ladies. The plot was kind of stupid and at times it didn't made sense (changing things without a boss' approval? Nope). I couldn't care less about Ryan's character, Daniel. I don't dislike him, but he always plays his characters in the same way.
The reason I give this 7 stars? (Other than Taylor Cole) A diverse cast and even the hint of a same-sex couple at the end. Which i'm all in for (this is actually funny, because I saw today a trailer for Hallmark movies that does include a same sex couple and people are mad, but I couldn't be happier.)
I'm not gonna watch again, but I'm glad I did.
Taylor Cole + Ryan Paevey = Perfect Match
leviathan-19222 July 2021
I know Hallmark movies are supposed to be cheesy and unrealistic, but I loved this film regardless! Taylor Cole and Ryan Paevey have an immense amount of on-screen chemistry together. The way their characters interact and gaze at each other is hard proof. The story was light-hearted and family-friendly. The setting was adorable and made the story even more romantic. Also the dogs are adorable! I would recommend this to everyone. I hope to see more Taylor Cole and Ryan Paevey films!
Is Hallmark turning slightly off center?
folsominc23 March 2020
Warning: Spoilers
"Matching Hearts" was nearly perfect in many ways, timing right, romance right, plot not too shabby or rehashed etc.
HOWEVER, did I see glimmer of same-sex romance in the very end with the two Asian men set as a "couple"?
Careful, Hallmark. You go that way and me and many other viewers I know will turn you off for good!!
One good thing about your movies is that people don't have to fight with their internal moral compass when watching. Usually just good clean fun, despite Christmas movies with nothing to do with Jesus, the reason for the season, which is a bit offensive.
I would hate to turn off Hallmark because of modern day filth!!
Hope I'm wrong.
A Best Match
gtbullet9 February 2020
The two lead actors are so enchanting with each other that I lose site that they are following a script, and that this is a movie. It's so refreshing to be in a story that makes you feel so good about what you're listening to.
Not much romance
phd_travel3 January 2021
There isn't much of a romance before things end. Most of the time she is trying to set him up with someone else. It feels rushed and abrupt that they develop feelings for one another. Taylor Cole is pretty and she makes a nice couple with Ryan Paevey - I think they have been better together in some other movie. At least here aren't any silly obstacles. It just feels they left out the main part.
Enjoyed This Movie
WyzOldGuy22 February 2020
I enjoy watching Taylor Cole. Her beauty, grace, smile, expressive eyes, and wardrobe are things I look forward to in her Hallmark movies. She carried this most scenes in this movie and I enjoyed it. Her best Hallmark performance in the past year. She especially shined in her scenes with the dogs and in her photographer scenes. On that note, costuming gave her some beautiful dresses. The red dress during the final scenes is a red carpet wonder. Taylor seemed entirely at ease with her male counterpart, Ryan Peavey. Hallmark has been using her with different male leads the last couple years; some of which did not work.
The supporting cast did a good job. Her two co-workers provided needed relief and dimension to the story. The female leads parents were convincingly caring and supportive; and, provided some quotable "pearls of wisdom."
Ryan's best scenes were when he was in repartee' with Taylor. Their timing was spot on. I don't think Ryan's performance was equal to Taylor's, but that's not entirely his fault. Most of his scenes were close-ups with brief expressions. He did better in the scenes where he could interact with other actors and his environment. Also his script provided little in the way of character development and arc aside from the romance itself.
One last thing, I found the closing shot of a possible male couple confusing. We knew all the other couples in the montage of couples. The writers provided no context for this.
'Wishing for More Sparks
omijer9 February 2020
Matching Hearts was the first Valentine's Day movie this viewer watched this season..As with all Hallmark movies, there was anticipation of a sweet and believable romance. Sadly, this movie did not deliver.. While the premise of the story was very inviting and believable, the acting did not satisfy this viewer as much as it might have.
Taylor Cole is stunning! She is one of the most beautiful of all the Hallmark actresses. Her face, her smile, her bright eyes are all dazzling. Her entire image is flawless..In this film, her wardrobe was so beautiful, so elegant, it was hard to take ones eyes off her. And she carries herself with enormous grace and sophistication. By contrast, her leading man, Ryan Paevey, was a let-down. His facial expressions were unvarying, almost wooden..His voice was without very much emotion. and it seemed as though he was struggling to convey feelings in the most dramatic of scenes. He is an exceptionally attractive man. No question. However, some ardor is missing, some passion is absent.
It saddens this reviewer to offer a negative response to the movie..which had great, positive Valentine's messages to convey..On the most positive note, however, the fluffy dog that Taylor Cole was charmed by..stole so many of the scenes, it was enchanting to watch them together.. Too bad, the hero did not have the same impact.
One of the best Hallmark movies out there!
AngelCullen22 April 2020
Clumsy
Jackbv12329 February 2020
Warning: Spoilers
The story seemed convoluted and possibly a little too focused on the business as opposed to the relationship. Either that or that the actors lacked chemistry. Maybe both or that both factors combined to bring each other down.
The boss expresses glowing confidence before leaving and then has lost it when she returns. Two managers who have the former relationship don't allow things to change so quickly.
The boss expresses glowing confidence before leaving and then has lost it when she returns. Two managers who have the former relationship don't allow things to change so quickly.
comfortable recipe
Kirpianuscus13 February 2022
A matchmaker agency, a pets center, a bachelor saying something not real correct, a lady looking for demonstrate than he makes a mistake. And, sure, dogs and cats, dates and the so predictable end.
Two things are real useful - the sparkles of classic romances and the main actors - sure, with some reserves about Russ Paevey , not very comfortable in role -.
But comfortable is the recipe, working little more than decent.
Two things are real useful - the sparkles of classic romances and the main actors - sure, with some reserves about Russ Paevey , not very comfortable in role -.
But comfortable is the recipe, working little more than decent.
Taylor Cole makes it...
toncincin11 February 2020
Cute movie. Taylor Cole is awesome. Ryan Paevey - not so much. He's - as usual - kind of wooden. The premise is plausible. The party ideas cute - but she never consulted her boss on the changes. She'd be fired in real life! Regardless of whether it worked...
So my question - why is Jessica Steen not credited? She's beautiful and has been in several Hallmark movies (and a Heartland staple).
So my question - why is Jessica Steen not credited? She's beautiful and has been in several Hallmark movies (and a Heartland staple).
Dumb. Lazy script.
mikemckiernan8 June 2020
I like Taylor Cole, and she's fine in this, but she can't save the lazy script. I know Hallmark's pattern is to play hard to get with the two beautiful people in the movie, but he's single, she's single, they give each other bedroom eyes and yet, he still lets her set him up on two dates, because..... ? btw, Ryan Paevey is not a good actor. He should stick to modeling. Dumb.
Dogs, Cats, and the Humans: all looking for "Forever Homes".
druatlax17 April 2022
Ryan Paevey and Taylor Cole.... A really, really good match as leads. Both are very accomplished actors and their chemistry seems quite perfect..
For those who wanted more action, you really need to watch the trailers. This is a story about two very different people's work and lives.
They meet, they interact, they become friends. Boring stuff to some. But real to me and mine, as they are so very warm and believable humans.
We loved this film, every member of our family found something to enjoy and remember.
They meet, they interact, they become friends. Boring stuff to some. But real to me and mine, as they are so very warm and believable humans.
We loved this film, every member of our family found something to enjoy and remember.
A perfect match
MickyG3332 March 2023
8.0 stars.
Two of my favorite Hallmark leads are paired for "Matching Hearts", so you can imagine my excitement and eagerness to get on with my viewing experience ASAP. I must say this film did not disappoint, and while it's not my most absolute favorite, it's 8.0 stars which speaks volumes of the entertainment value and overall enjoyment.
She is a matchmaker who has been single for many years, sort of an ironic circumstance. He is a very successful entrepreneur who doesn't really believe in all that matchmaking hocus pocus. They might be the perfect match.
The chemistry is fantastic and the story is well written, although much of the dialogue is somewhat unnatural like a CW program where all the teenagers talk like ivy league educated professors. It's hard to describe, but contrived seems to be the go-to word that most use these days, however I like to use different jargon in these reviews rather than the same old words like contrived, formulaic, schmaltzy, or trope. I guess if you can't beat 'em you join 'em. It's the same reviewers getting all the thumbs up reviews, 10 out of 10 liked this or that, seems unlikely for 5 people to all have 10 out of 10's then the outliers have 2 out of 9's or 1 out of 3 sort of results. It's obvious there are insider groups of IMDB reviewers, or others on a fast track to some super user association, a band of cohorts who mutually comment upon each other's reviews, I'll scratch your back if you scratch mine situations...you'll see the same usernames invariably pop up in the majority of reviews over and over. I'm simply doing these reviews to contribute something as an outsider looking in on something. Evidently it's something I've coveted just a smidge today for some odd reason. On with my Hallmark marathon and ta-ta for now...
Two of my favorite Hallmark leads are paired for "Matching Hearts", so you can imagine my excitement and eagerness to get on with my viewing experience ASAP. I must say this film did not disappoint, and while it's not my most absolute favorite, it's 8.0 stars which speaks volumes of the entertainment value and overall enjoyment.
She is a matchmaker who has been single for many years, sort of an ironic circumstance. He is a very successful entrepreneur who doesn't really believe in all that matchmaking hocus pocus. They might be the perfect match.
The chemistry is fantastic and the story is well written, although much of the dialogue is somewhat unnatural like a CW program where all the teenagers talk like ivy league educated professors. It's hard to describe, but contrived seems to be the go-to word that most use these days, however I like to use different jargon in these reviews rather than the same old words like contrived, formulaic, schmaltzy, or trope. I guess if you can't beat 'em you join 'em. It's the same reviewers getting all the thumbs up reviews, 10 out of 10 liked this or that, seems unlikely for 5 people to all have 10 out of 10's then the outliers have 2 out of 9's or 1 out of 3 sort of results. It's obvious there are insider groups of IMDB reviewers, or others on a fast track to some super user association, a band of cohorts who mutually comment upon each other's reviews, I'll scratch your back if you scratch mine situations...you'll see the same usernames invariably pop up in the majority of reviews over and over. I'm simply doing these reviews to contribute something as an outsider looking in on something. Evidently it's something I've coveted just a smidge today for some odd reason. On with my Hallmark marathon and ta-ta for now...
Cringey & predictable
brendacamp14 March 2022
Ryan Paevey & Animals= best combo
jeanamanda24 April 2020
I only watched this movie for Ryan Paevey, he is such a wonderful actor and incredibly good looking. There is something very reassuring whenever Ryan is on screen with his piercing blue eyes and deeper voice, it's no wonder why women fall for his characters. I can't stand Taylor Cole, her movies are always boring, I keep trying to finish them but she always plays embarrassing characters. Somehow she seems a little better but she's certainly being carried by her handsome co-star. The true couple in this story is Daniel and the adorable animals in his animal shelter. Seeing a man who enjoys playing with animals and treats them so kindly is truly the way to most women's hearts. In reality if Julia changes all the plans her boss made, she would be fired, let alone matching herself with a client. Watch it for the cute kittens and puppies.
Hallmark movies have nice whole casts
Sintz4910 February 2020
I enjoy seeing actors appear in more than just one story by Hallmark. Often the 2 leads I have seen in other romantic stories where they match up with a different character played by an actor I've seen before --- matched up with still ANOTHER sweety! But I also really like seeing actors in supporting rolls. But on my cell, I can only find names of only the top 5 actors in the cast. I was sad not to learn the name of the Asian actress who played a fellow staffer at the matching department. She helped make the show more fun for me !!
Blatantly misleading
stayo12 February 2020
I mean, the movie preview seems like the leading man has an equally meaty role in the movie as the leading lady, but wasn't even on screen 15 minutes into the movie when it aired and the movie in its entirety was all about the lead actress who was painful to watch. Taylor Cole has no acting range at all. She could use some acting lessons.
Terrible female lead and overly used cliche plot
Elf1612 February 2020
The movie mostly revolves around an actress that can't act her way out of a paper bag. Taylor is pretty, but that's all she has going in this movie. The supporting characters and the male lead (who was barely in the movie and didn't have much to work with)
carried this movie on their back and made it slightly enjoyable hence the 4 star rating. It's not one I'll watch again. Once is enough.
carried this movie on their back and made it slightly enjoyable hence the 4 star rating. It's not one I'll watch again. Once is enough.
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