While I faithfully watch all new Hallmark movies, I'm so thankful to COVID for slowing the factory down. I really love the older Hallmark movies they're showing, and the outside productions like "Midway to Love." This move was refreshing because it's outside the formula. The characters also felt more realistic than the normal Hallmark fare. I think even my husband would like it.
31 Reviews
Don't we all sometimes let our head get in the way?
cgvsluis16 September 2021
The network wants to franchise Dr. Rachel August's tv show, but there is a catch...new producer and they want to pair her with some crazy, ridiculous internet sensation which would would make this serious doctor a laughing stock.
She goes home for a week's vacation to Midway to visit her dad and figure out a way to get out of her five year obligatory contract. In Midway she meets her childhood sweetheart who is back in town and working as a fourth grade teacher...and who has a ten year old foster daughter. Her father who is also a psychiatrist and a widower, gives her some really good life advice about how your career isn't everything and how life and family are important.
This was a sweet, quirky second chance romance in an adorable town. The two leads have wonderful chemistry and a believe-able romance.
She goes home for a week's vacation to Midway to visit her dad and figure out a way to get out of her five year obligatory contract. In Midway she meets her childhood sweetheart who is back in town and working as a fourth grade teacher...and who has a ten year old foster daughter. Her father who is also a psychiatrist and a widower, gives her some really good life advice about how your career isn't everything and how life and family are important.
This was a sweet, quirky second chance romance in an adorable town. The two leads have wonderful chemistry and a believe-able romance.
Surprised
Northener15 July 2020
I am surprised that Hallmark would pick up an independent film like this. They are hit and miss, but I enjoy them because they don't follow formula. Some small favors in the wake of covid I guess. There is the basic premise, woman goes back home and reconnects with old boyfriend, but Hallmark doesn't have the patent on that. Some people will find this boring because they are not used to seeing something that quietly focuses on two characters rather than alot of silly, contrived and overused situations. Thankfully this is missing the evil bf/gf, perma-smiles, town festivals, baking contests, and saving the small business that actually went extinct about 3 decades ago. Maybe Hallmark can get a few clues from this film.
It does have the pitfalls of a low bugdet - the horrid tertiary characters and inappropriate music. Loud jazz piano while strolling through the woods? Awful. But I will forgive that because while none of these movies are realistic, this at least is plausible and sweet. I enjoyed the story and the leads' acting. Unlike some real life Hallmark couples, this married acting duo manage to connect and portray actual emotions. No cheesy embarrassing declarations here. Good job.
It does have the pitfalls of a low bugdet - the horrid tertiary characters and inappropriate music. Loud jazz piano while strolling through the woods? Awful. But I will forgive that because while none of these movies are realistic, this at least is plausible and sweet. I enjoyed the story and the leads' acting. Unlike some real life Hallmark couples, this married acting duo manage to connect and portray actual emotions. No cheesy embarrassing declarations here. Good job.
Middle of the road love
TheLittleSongbird14 July 2022
There is absolutely no bias against Hallmark. They have made plenty of above average and more films, and that is including this year. They have also done quite a number of below average and less ones. 'Midway to Love' did sound quite cute, despite being a scenario that felt done to death with Hallmark long before this was dreamt up. Both the leads are relatively new to me, so don't have much overall opinion on them. Good though to not have a prolific Hallmark actor/actress for a change once in a while.
'Midway to Love' is one of those watchable but not particularly great outings. Not one of the worst Hallmark films from that year, but also not one of the best. As far as that year's Hallmark Movies and Mysteries batch goes, this was one of the middling efforts and when it comes to Hallmark it's neither terrible or great. Merely unexceptional middle of the road quality with an equal mix of good and bad. Worth a one time watch, not one that holds up to repeat viewings.
Am going to begin with what 'Midway to Love' does right. The acting is well above average, with both leads being truly admirable in a very appealing way. Rachel Hendrix particularly with a more interesting character. Did like Daniel Stine's subtle natural charisma and the low key but genuine chemistry they have. The supporting cast do well.
Furthermore, 'Midway to Love' looks lovely. The scenery particularly is a marvel even. The music appeals on the ears and is used without being too loud or overused.
Despite all that, there are shortcomings. It does contain a lot of awkward and corny writing, including between the two leads. While the characters don't irritate, they are on the one dimensional and cliched side with too little development and some static and too forelorn character interaction.
Moreover, the story is dully paced and over-formulaic, nothing here is surprising or new due to seeing it many times in other Hllmark films and better.
In conclusion, unexceptional but watchable. 5/10.
'Midway to Love' is one of those watchable but not particularly great outings. Not one of the worst Hallmark films from that year, but also not one of the best. As far as that year's Hallmark Movies and Mysteries batch goes, this was one of the middling efforts and when it comes to Hallmark it's neither terrible or great. Merely unexceptional middle of the road quality with an equal mix of good and bad. Worth a one time watch, not one that holds up to repeat viewings.
Am going to begin with what 'Midway to Love' does right. The acting is well above average, with both leads being truly admirable in a very appealing way. Rachel Hendrix particularly with a more interesting character. Did like Daniel Stine's subtle natural charisma and the low key but genuine chemistry they have. The supporting cast do well.
Furthermore, 'Midway to Love' looks lovely. The scenery particularly is a marvel even. The music appeals on the ears and is used without being too loud or overused.
Despite all that, there are shortcomings. It does contain a lot of awkward and corny writing, including between the two leads. While the characters don't irritate, they are on the one dimensional and cliched side with too little development and some static and too forelorn character interaction.
Moreover, the story is dully paced and over-formulaic, nothing here is surprising or new due to seeing it many times in other Hllmark films and better.
In conclusion, unexceptional but watchable. 5/10.
Midway to Greatness
SpeakingEye18 February 2022
The constant production line of Hallmark's mostly formulaic movies means that it is often the presence of established actors like Danica McKellar, Lacey Chabert, Brennan Elliot or Cameron Mathison which make the difference between fun and watchable or a bland marshmallow experience. Selecting a film with unknown leads almost then becomes a game of chance as to whether the film will be engaging or will require a hasty exit after 30 minutes.
Midway To Love is such a film, with unknown leads and a micro sized cast to carry it along. The result though is an unexpected triumph mainly due to the gigantic sized heart at its centre.
Rachel Hendrix (as Rachel) and Daniel Stine (as Mitchell) are both small town characters who escaped to the big time with differing results. Rachel made it big in New York and never returned, Mitchell didn't and returned home empty handed to teach instead. Their subsequent reuniting is handled very sensitively and you are drawn into their world as they try to reclaim some of the magic that carried their friendship through school. In particular, Stine does a great job portraying the pain of someone who has gone from being the high school hero to a real life zero but has then re-built his life as a popular teacher in town.
The interplay between Hendrix and Stine is authentically performed and you actually feel these are real people with real lives who once loved each other. There is also some solid support from Joe Gatton as Rachel's doctor Dad who as the town doctor somehow manages to live in a palatial mansion with a sweeping driveway.
The film has standout moments - the restaurant scene with the two leads lost in a dance to a lovely tune from Beth Dean called, aptly enough, The One That Got Away. The dialogue scenes next to the river bed are filled with reminiscences and an underlying sadness for something long gone
Overall the micro cast and limited locations give it a feeling of being a play rather than a film. Even the obligatory cute kid adds depth to the plot.
The ending of course is pure Hallmark but it doesn't matter since the proceeding 90 minutes contain the important bits about finding and losing love and then finding it again.
Midway To Love is such a film, with unknown leads and a micro sized cast to carry it along. The result though is an unexpected triumph mainly due to the gigantic sized heart at its centre.
Rachel Hendrix (as Rachel) and Daniel Stine (as Mitchell) are both small town characters who escaped to the big time with differing results. Rachel made it big in New York and never returned, Mitchell didn't and returned home empty handed to teach instead. Their subsequent reuniting is handled very sensitively and you are drawn into their world as they try to reclaim some of the magic that carried their friendship through school. In particular, Stine does a great job portraying the pain of someone who has gone from being the high school hero to a real life zero but has then re-built his life as a popular teacher in town.
The interplay between Hendrix and Stine is authentically performed and you actually feel these are real people with real lives who once loved each other. There is also some solid support from Joe Gatton as Rachel's doctor Dad who as the town doctor somehow manages to live in a palatial mansion with a sweeping driveway.
The film has standout moments - the restaurant scene with the two leads lost in a dance to a lovely tune from Beth Dean called, aptly enough, The One That Got Away. The dialogue scenes next to the river bed are filled with reminiscences and an underlying sadness for something long gone
Overall the micro cast and limited locations give it a feeling of being a play rather than a film. Even the obligatory cute kid adds depth to the plot.
The ending of course is pure Hallmark but it doesn't matter since the proceeding 90 minutes contain the important bits about finding and losing love and then finding it again.
This one's an odd duck
MickyG33321 February 2023
6.4 stars.
I was anticipating the usual Hallmark blueprint only to find something that is actually more down to earth. Where Hallmark usually inserts well rehearsed tension and drama, "Midway to Love" uses authentic interactions. The only challenge is sometimes it makes for a boring display. On the upside it's obvious this film does not fit the mold, but the downside is failure to entertain.
I had high hopes for "Midway to Love" until midway through when it was not able to gain any momentum. What appears to be very true to form and refreshing with potential, ended up somewhat inferior in many ways. Several facets of the presentation are lacking, be it the pacing, the music, the dialogue, or a combination.
I decided to stick around to see what would transpire, and I can say it was a valiant effort at a touching story of romance and self-respect. The way she connects with a little girl to help her overcome her fears, is very heartfelt. The brilliant side story of the television show and her role as the host and all the crazy friction with the Jerry Springer wannabe clown...her assistant, how she is loyal to the bitter end...this side plot was so wonderful and entertaining, but cut way too short.
I was disappointed that the romantic chemistry is absent, the dialogue is mundane, and the main story is wanting. They should have kept the spotlight on her television therapy show and not her home life and ex-boyfriend. There is no recognition between them, yet they've known each other since grade school? It's a very strange and confusing matchup. Several fundamentally crucial elements are missing from this film, and I surmise it's due to amateur filmmaking.
I was anticipating the usual Hallmark blueprint only to find something that is actually more down to earth. Where Hallmark usually inserts well rehearsed tension and drama, "Midway to Love" uses authentic interactions. The only challenge is sometimes it makes for a boring display. On the upside it's obvious this film does not fit the mold, but the downside is failure to entertain.
I had high hopes for "Midway to Love" until midway through when it was not able to gain any momentum. What appears to be very true to form and refreshing with potential, ended up somewhat inferior in many ways. Several facets of the presentation are lacking, be it the pacing, the music, the dialogue, or a combination.
I decided to stick around to see what would transpire, and I can say it was a valiant effort at a touching story of romance and self-respect. The way she connects with a little girl to help her overcome her fears, is very heartfelt. The brilliant side story of the television show and her role as the host and all the crazy friction with the Jerry Springer wannabe clown...her assistant, how she is loyal to the bitter end...this side plot was so wonderful and entertaining, but cut way too short.
I was disappointed that the romantic chemistry is absent, the dialogue is mundane, and the main story is wanting. They should have kept the spotlight on her television therapy show and not her home life and ex-boyfriend. There is no recognition between them, yet they've known each other since grade school? It's a very strange and confusing matchup. Several fundamentally crucial elements are missing from this film, and I surmise it's due to amateur filmmaking.
Weak Script, OK Acting
bscalf-7979927 June 2020
Dull
EPMD5710 September 2020
The lead is likable, she is fashionable and level-headed, and she isn't completely hopeless like some Hallmark leads. I enjoy that this was clearly not made by Hallmark because it means the story is a little less formulaic.
The problem is that they forgot to make it entertaining. There are a lot of forlorn looks in this movie, and I think most viewers will be left doing the same.
The problem is that they forgot to make it entertaining. There are a lot of forlorn looks in this movie, and I think most viewers will be left doing the same.
Stolen puppy
thomasgould-6064626 February 2022
Andrew Hunter's sad puppy performance did not allow any chemistry to develop in this one. Emmanuel let Vaugier's performance was very good but could not save this normally reliable Hallmark movie. The plot was not very believable to start with but casting was worse. The hyper co-host was too far over the top to be taken seriously. The hang dog persona offered by Walker was ridiculous. The premise a relationship expert would fall in love with such a hapless character was unconvincing and resulted in a complete lack of chemistry or believability. A viewer will never know if Walker's miserable performance was a result of the directors instruction or Walker's interpretation of the character. Either way it was brutal to sit they. I can't believe I watched this one and wish I had read the. Reviews. Beforehand.
Nice movie
toncincin14 February 2021
Despite what other reviewers have said - this is a nice, feel good movie. Doesn't have the glitz and glamour of most Hallmark movies - no polished Hallmark stars. It's an independent movie picked up by Hallmark. But it is a cute movie - very feel good. The actors are likable. The story is good. I watched it when it first aired on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries last year - and just watched again on a free Hallmark Movies Now weekend. I still like it ...
UPDATE: I've watched this movie numerous times. It's still enjoyable. The leads are now married in real life (and now have a little boy). It's still my go-to feel good movie. No - it's not perfect ... but it's very watchable and still feel-good.
UPDATE: I've watched this movie numerous times. It's still enjoyable. The leads are now married in real life (and now have a little boy). It's still my go-to feel good movie. No - it's not perfect ... but it's very watchable and still feel-good.
Boring and slow moving!
ggeorge-172053 October 2021
Awful - boring - no character development
lmgannon24 September 2020
I really like the two leads, Rachel Hendrix and Daniel Stine, but they had literally nothing to work with here. The only pleasant part of the whole movie was the woodsy scenery. This movie was extremely boring, had no plot, lacked even basic character development, and featured a TSTL female lead that I wanted to shake and yell at the last two-thirds of the movie. I'm stumped as to why these two good actors accepted these pitiful roles. Nothing to care about in this movie.
Very dreary viewing
gatsby9160629 June 2020
What a snoozefest. One has to wonder if Hallmark produced "Midway to Love" or it was just a pickup to fill in virus depleted new title fare. There is the basic formula. Female doctor psychologist in New York City is unhappy over changes to her TV show. She retreats to her old Kentucky hometown and rekindles with former high school sweetheart. Lackluster in not even having routine tension like the big city jerk boyfriend who is Mr. Wrong. Actors are bland and unfamiliar. Not even the usual Canadian faces. Even fans of this genre will nod off during this one.
nice and bland
SnoopyStyle13 July 2021
Dr. Rachel August is a proper psychologist doing her TV show in New York City to help people. Suddenly, the network demands that she change her show into a tabloid/Jerry Springer Show and forces a YouTube co-host on her. She feels trapped. On her vacation to her small home town Midway, she bumps into former crush Mitchell Sims, a 4th grade school teacher.
It's a simple TV romance movie. It's basic Hallmarks except it needs two more charismatic leads. These are functional no-name actors. They are perfectly nice and bland. It would be better to have some heat. This has no heat and no energy.
It's a simple TV romance movie. It's basic Hallmarks except it needs two more charismatic leads. These are functional no-name actors. They are perfectly nice and bland. It would be better to have some heat. This has no heat and no energy.
Poor script
drbreakwell25 June 2021
Another poor effort for a "Hallmark-type" movie. Heroine can't decide between New York and an old flame who professes his love and a dad who offers her a position with his practice. The TV shows he is on is trying to be another Maury Povich show. Bad script. Poor acting. It hardly deserves the 5 rating.
Good for a relaxed time.
dimcguffin9 January 2021
Meh
edward-0525429 August 2020
Some nice elements...some of the Hallmarks "Mad Libs" style of movie making...check some of the boxes to construct a movie from elements rather than story. The love interest, unfortunately, is kind of a presumptuous jerk. Rachel Hendrix carries it higher than it would otherwise go. Missable.
No spark
Jackbv1235 September 2020
See the "Did you know" section on this movie's main IMDb page. That's a start for why this movie is basically blah.
Daniel Stine is also blah in this role. Rachel Hendrix carried most of the story. She isn't outstanding but she has an appeal. She doesn't look old enough for the TV expert doctor role, but she's just right for gaining the trust of the little girl, Shelly.
The premise of the show's format change is overdone so that the audience would really hate the new producer and co-host, but then there is no joy in the climax. That climax is flat. It's childish. The closing scene is flat as well. Everything in the middle, except the scenes with Shelly are just mundane.
I know reality isn't important in these movies but I can't hold this comment in because it bothered me the whole movie. Contract Lawyer. Rachel shouldn't have hesitated a moment before talking to someone especially if she wasn't sure what she wanted to do. And no professional would have waited to do it.
Daniel Stine is also blah in this role. Rachel Hendrix carried most of the story. She isn't outstanding but she has an appeal. She doesn't look old enough for the TV expert doctor role, but she's just right for gaining the trust of the little girl, Shelly.
The premise of the show's format change is overdone so that the audience would really hate the new producer and co-host, but then there is no joy in the climax. That climax is flat. It's childish. The closing scene is flat as well. Everything in the middle, except the scenes with Shelly are just mundane.
I know reality isn't important in these movies but I can't hold this comment in because it bothered me the whole movie. Contract Lawyer. Rachel shouldn't have hesitated a moment before talking to someone especially if she wasn't sure what she wanted to do. And no professional would have waited to do it.
Boring
anthonycockayneac21 June 2020
Dreadful
grablelisa1 September 2020
Very obviously not a Hallmark production. While locations are beautiful and some interesting music choices, it looks like it was made with a cell phone. The dialogue is very stilted and many set pieces are done with two chairs and a wall. I'm a Hallmark junkie, so I'm surprised how bad I think this one is. It makes me never want to see these actors again.
Enjoyed it!
skillfulcota8 May 2021
Great movie and worth the time. Rachel Hendrix does a fabulous job as does the lead man Daniel Stine. Supporting actors and actresses are also authentic. Has one main storyline and the focus remains throughout which I like. Excellent story about how many share the view of the main character (Rachel) are sick of the loud and obnoxious and prefer to really help people. Surprised that it even airs being that Hollywood Looneys hate good morals and good values. Grateful for the people that assisted in all aspects of production as your jobs must be tough as you fight the cancel culture of Hollywood. KUDDOS TO ALL FOR MAKING A WORTHWHILE FILM FOR MY LEISURE ENJOYMENT. I do not watch much because so much out there is trash, even from Hallmark.
Adequate if nothing better is available to watch.
momster000526 July 2020
There are better Independent Romantic movies out there.
The male romantic lead is a terrible actor that looks like he stepped out of a rag box. He has No Chemistry with the lead actress which is a must in a romance.
Its like someone had an idea for a movie, found a grand house and a castle and there ya go.
Wasted time, horribly bland
revolutionrockchick10 January 2021
No Chemistry
brianserenity-771503 January 2023
Warning: Spoilers
There is absolutely no chemistry between the alleged lovers.
The father daughter relationship is great and the little girl is wonderful, but the romance does not work at all. It felt like the longest part of the movie was these two and the writers trying to convince us that there are sparks between them. I felt it was written that way to try to make up for the lack of chemistry between these two.
The funniest part of the movie is right after the touching interchange between her and the three young girls, and then she looks over there and sees her rejected lover trying to be sad. I openly laughed when they showed this guy over there. It's like she didn't notice him when she first came in?
If this movie comes on, go do something else until Lacey Chabert comes back on.
The father daughter relationship is great and the little girl is wonderful, but the romance does not work at all. It felt like the longest part of the movie was these two and the writers trying to convince us that there are sparks between them. I felt it was written that way to try to make up for the lack of chemistry between these two.
The funniest part of the movie is right after the touching interchange between her and the three young girls, and then she looks over there and sees her rejected lover trying to be sad. I openly laughed when they showed this guy over there. It's like she didn't notice him when she first came in?
If this movie comes on, go do something else until Lacey Chabert comes back on.
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
