The Perfect Catch (2017 TV Movie) User Reviews

another Hallmark movie

[SnoopyStyle · 6/10 · 16 September 2018]

Jessica (Nikki Deloach) is a single mom running her late grandpa's small town restaurant while facing new competition. She's dating insurance salesman Brett. Her old flame Chase Taynor (Andrew W. Walker) is back home visiting his parents. He can't find a new team after allowing a grand slam to lose the World Series in game 7. He starts teaching her son Wesley to play baseball.

This is a Hallmark channel movie. It's better than most of its kind. Grading on a curve, this deserves a passing grade. The leads are long time solid actors. Neither really got to be stars but both have worked consistently. They fit the characters and have solid chemistry together. They are photogenic with some depths of lost. The story is basically good looking middle age people finding their way back to each other again. It doesn't get much simpler than this.

Another Good One

[mstiechick · 8/10 · 21 May 2017]

Sweet movie about a man who realizes what's important in the world. The child actor brings a lot of personality and character to this film. This is a feel good movie about a star baseball player that comes home and finds himself. In a time with so much craziness, it's nice to have movies that take you away and make you feel good about good people helping others.

Worth a watch

[Lew777 · 6/10 · 1 March 2019]

Nikki Deloach takes the plaudits for this small-town tale of a single Mum trying to make her Grandpa's diner business work, whilst juggling he role as Mum, having a no-risk taker of a boyfriend and finally having Chase, an old flame Baseball star, walk back into her life. She has such transparent ,emotional & photogenic features that takes you into her story. Good job ! I also loved Andrew Walker's struggle to get a good relationship with his Dad, which will resonate with many men out there. A cute film & the chemistry between the 2 leads works well.

The Perfect Catch

[studioAT · 6/10 · 3 April 2023]

It does seem at times like Chase (Hallmark veteran, Andrew Walker) is a better fit for her son as a stepdad rather than for Jessica (Nikki Deloach) but on the whole this is a good Hallmark film, and a darn sight better than some of the drivel they've been serving up to us recently.

It's not perfect, it does take a long time to warm up, and compared to the father who walked out and Jessica's boyfriend at the start Chase is by far the better option, but this remains a solid if unspectacular Hallmark film, with all the normal moments and plot points being covered in a nice way.

Overall, a good film.

Hallmark monotony is taking its toll

[MickyG333 · 7/10 · 29 January 2023]

7.3 stars.

It's the usual Hallmark story identical to the last detail except for one factor: one of the characters is a Major League Baseball player. The only other similar career trope was the Hallmark with the NFL quarterback. I suppose there must be a tennis pro version too? I eagerly await stumbling upon it. Or maybe a volleyball, basketball, or soccer? I've yet to see any of those.

Not much else to offer in this review. Jessica (Deloach) owns a diner her late grandpa started. We know nothing about how he passed, or about her parents. Chase (Walker) is an MLB pitcher who threw a really bad game, now his career is on the ropes. They dated in high school but he left to follow his baseball career and never looked back. She has a little boy who is learning to play ball, but he is having difficulties with it. His parents are in the picture as well. His mom is fine, but dad is judgmental for no logical reason.

The story is cookie cutter. Here are the clichés and they are numerous. Jessica's son is trying to learn baseball, what a coincidence. The diner is in debt, she is near default on the loan...so overdone. And why would it be in default if it was supposedly a successful diner in the past? Did she take out another loan? Her current boyfriend Brett is obnoxious, tells her she can't take risks or she will lose everything. The leads have a very heartfelt and steamy kiss with 30 minutes remaining in the film, which means that soon to follow will be conflict and a parting of ways (never fails). Empty promises are made by the famous character (in this case it's Chase). People in Hallmark films live on hotdogs, burgers, cookies, cake, and hot chocolate. She breaks up with the unsavory boyfriend Brett but he seems unfazed. At the end when Jessica and Chase make up, Brett is one of many fans cheering from the bleachers. Really? Cringe.

Dreamy: Chemistry A

[MIssM19 · 9/10 · 23 April 2017]

First of all. DREAM BIG. Take risks. That's what this movie is about. (Besides love, right?)

One might think that because this is a Hallmark movie it'll just like all movies they have ever made. But every once in a while there are a few that are above average. This is one of those for me.

Two weeks ago I discover that Andrew W. Walker and Nikki Deloach were having another movie together, and after watching "A Dream of Christmas", who wouldn't want to see them working together again? Personally, the chemistry between the actors, in any movie, is one of the most important things for me. In the first the chemistry was there, and in here? Oh boy it is there too. I started smiling like a fool ever since their first scene together.

Nikki Deloach, aka Jessica, seems to be one of those people whose smile brightens the room when she steps in, and Andrew W. Walker aka Chase (appart from being one of my favorite Hallmark guys) seems like a pretty charming guy. Put them together and you have this movie. Both characters were great, they both have a back story and i'm glad we got to see more of Andrew's character this time.

The script was amazing, original - the theme was something I haven't seen before from Hallmark - I was waiting for the moment they would screw up the plot, but fortunately it didn't come. Predictable? Maybe, but in this case it's what made me enjoy the story. I knew there was a problem coming up or that they were about to have a scene alone.

If there is something missing in this movie it's probably that scene between the characters in which the girl falls on top of the guy, or they are stuck together, those clumsy yet adorable moments. And maybe a line that would make me laugh out-loud.

I swear the movie lasted 30 minutes, not an hour and a half, I loved it. It's rare to see two leads working together again, three seems pretty impossible, but I really hope they get to do another movie together.

A potential cure for insomnia

[GirlRebuilt · 3/10 · 16 February 2021]

I've got to say it: I am absolutely shocked at the high ratings I'm seeing here, but everyone is of course entitled to their own opinions. Here are mine. The acting was terrible, but to be fair the actors weren't given much to work with with a script that weak. The characters for one dimensional and poorly developed. Even the musical score was completely along the same lines that we have heard again and again and a cane in low budget family-friendly romcoms. The plot was completely predictable, from the main story in and of itself right down to small details, even the lines at times. . If you're having a lot of difficulty sleeping and want something to turn on for white noise, a little inane distraction from your own thoughts that will not hold your attention nor interest you enough to keep you awake, then I would definitely recommend this film. Otherwise there are hundreds of thousands of better options out there. Only gave it 3 stars as I was not offended by anything in it, there was no gratuitous violence which is some thing that I personally can't tolerate due to PTSD issues, no harm came to any animals which also triggers me., and I did somehow manage to get through to the end. But those alone are hardly redeeming enough qualities to make me recommend this film to anyone or subject myself to it a second time. In fact, I'd even take a sleepless night over this.

Andrew Walker shines....

[ccmiller1492 · 8/10 · 29 March 2018]

It's very refreshing to see a quiet film with likeable leads who seem to inhabit their characters effortlessly. The baseball connection was what drew me in, and the fact that Walker reminded me so much of Elroy Hirsch aka "Crazylegs" who actually played himself in a bio-pic back in 1953 When you get tired of the constant overdone cgi, speed, explosions, and gratuitous violence in much of today's screen fare it pays off to check out the Hallmark films. I've caught a few others with Andrew Walker and he always gives a believable, sincere performance which overrides the sometimes contrived cuteness of the plots. This is the one that left the first and lasting impression...understated, but sweet and memorable. .

The restaurant was probably going out of business because the 'open/closed' sign was facing the wrong way.

[montez-14134 · 5/10 · 11 August 2018]

Although not a bad movie, the plot was pretty well identical to many other Hallmark style movies. I just about fell over laughing though, when the restaurant reopened and people were lined up to get in, as that must have been the point where the director realized the 'open' sign was facing the wrong way and turned it around; if only they had turned it around sooner, maybe those potential customers would have already stopped in, and the renovations wouldn't have been necessary. The idea that a used car lot would have a dirty vehicle for sale is ridiculous and anyone who knows anything about cars would have groaned when the lead actor remarked "the struts need work". It killed some time and had a happy ending though, so that was what was really important. If you are willing to overlook the shortcomings, this is a pleasant enough movie to watch with your mother.

Love This movie

[wolfamy-59732 · 8/10 · 16 January 2019]

I love the chemistry between Nikki and Andrew sparks fly immediately. She never looks at Brett once like she does Chase. Wesley does a great job as Jessica's son.

Not so perfect

[krichter-24724 · 2/10 · 7 November 2019]

I love Andrew walker, he always does a good job. Believable in his acting. I am tired of watching Nikki DeLoach, she over does it in a lot of her roles. Too stuck on herself. She looks older then a lot off her male leads.

No wonder Andrew Walker's character was unsigned!!!

[daustin-43550 · 8/10 · 31 December 2019]

This is a nice Hallmark production that features quite a few traditional plots: former couple "reuniting"; woman's business is bad so it might close; ex-boyfriend relates well to the woman's son; a possible broken promise; both father and son work together to overcome their emotional chasm; etc. The chemistry between the two leads works fine and the reunion of the couple seems inevitable. The denouement comes together quite nicely. Having seen all of Andrew Walker's Hallmark films, he has previously shown himself to be a good athlete - e.g. skating in a couple of movies. However, he cannot play baseball at all. He can't hit fungoes, swings like a rusty gate, and most definitely, cannot even resemble a major league pitcher, which is what he was supposed to be. I guess that is what you get when a northern Canadian athlete prolific at hockey tries to act as a baseball player.

a sunday movie

[paulwattriley · 5/10 · 3 November 2019]

The easiest and simple method would have been getting the stewards to make an announcement instead of a pregnant woman dropping down a 12ft wall and running across a field being chased by stewards

My 2 Fave "Hallmark" Actors!

[JaneU2143 · 10/10 · 10 January 2020]

I love these 2 together. Nikki DeLoach and Andrew Walker have such CHEMISTRY between them. I watched a great Christmas movie with the 2 of them. While checking I saw that they were in this movie together. Even better this was showing this week! I recorded it due to work but got to come home, put my feet up & watch. Cute movie !! I hope they make more movies together!!

How do you feed a crowd of people with a small pot of stew?

[smithsc-72227 · 4/10 · 12 March 2022]

I really do like a lot of things about this movie, especially Deloach and Walker. And I can get over the obvious mistakes that are common in all Hallmark Movies. However, toward the end there are three things that drive me crazy. First is the fact that during the reopening everyone that was waiting outside are just coming through the door seating themselves, except for the other restaurant owner that gets seated. Secondly, the only one apparently cooking is Walker, the baseball player, who is tending a small pot of stew that is apparently what is being served to the crowd of people. I understand that it's essentially a diner, but I would think there would at least be a couple other cooks making food to feed that many people. And third, at the end, they are announcing the players and all of a sudden when Chase returns the announcer simply stops talking for the rest of the movie. Totally unrealistic despite being cute. I'm really surprised no one else has decided to mention these things.

Baseball player he's not.

[Racingphan2 · 8/10 · 21 March 2021]

Andrew Walker is many things, and one of my favorite Hallmark actors, but a baseball player he's not. It's kinda painful to watch him pretend. But the chemistry between Andrew and Nikki DeLoach makes for a fun watch. And Lisa Durupt as the best friend is super pretty. Why isn't she headlining these movies. (BTW, as another reviewer points out, you can't unsee the scene with the cop where the headrest goes up and down between scenes. Really?)

Well worth catching

[TheLittleSongbird · 8/10 · 29 December 2021]

Although it didn't sound particularly original story-wise, 'The Perfect Catch' was still seen because of the two leads. Nikki DeLoach and Andrew Walker very seldom disappoint, their filmographies are hit and miss and so are their characters, but they are often among the best things of the misses. Do consider them two of Hallmark's best regulars and ones that near-consistently deliver, and have also seen them together before (and liked them).

'The Perfect Catch' really is well worth catching, and that is not being hyperbolic. And it is not just for them, though they are the main reasons. Was not all that impressed by the 2017 Spring Fever films on the whole, especially 'Like Cats and Dogs', but 'The Perfect Catch' did impress me a good deal and is easily the best of them. With it being the only one to be above good. Liked 'Moonlight in Vermont' too, though with some reservations, but the others didn't do it for me.

Not much to criticise, though there is very little new which did make it very easy to tell where the film was going to go. Especially in the final quarter, which was a little over too soon and neat.

Did think too that while pleasant enough the music had a bit of a repetitive quality to it.

However, both DeLoach and Walker are terrific and equally so. So many nuanced emotions and sparkling feel for comedy, and they wholly succeed in making their characters likeable despite seeing those types of characters before many times. Their characters, and the characters generally as an overall whole, are not meaty but they enagge and don't bore or irritate or make frustrating decisions. Being neither too perfect or have too many overblown character flaws, have seen plenty of those recently so that was a relief. Their chemistry is very genuine and truly endearing, can really tell that the two love working with each other. Lisa Durrupt steals every scene she's in and makes a potentially annoying character entertaining.

Visually, 'The Perfect Catch' is slick and attractive. Hallmark often did deliver on the scenery, the locations were seldom authentic to the real thing but they still looked great and lovingly shot, and this film is no exception. The script doesn't feel stilted or cheesy and there is a very good natured feel good vibe to the playful, charming interactions. The story is very cute without being too cute and is very heart warming and light on its feet.

Summing up, well worth catching. 8/10.

Loved this movie

[jewhitmer25 · 10/10 · 28 July 2021]

Great movie, excellant chenistry between Nikki Deloach as Jessica and Andrew W. Walker as Chase. They are two actors who always deliver a stellar performance.

If you haven't seen Andrew in "Dashing Through The Snow" and Nikki in "Love to the Rescue" put them on your must-see list NOW.

Plot single Mom, Nikki Deloach as Jessica, struggling, trying to keep the failing family restaurant in business and trying to help her son with baseball, like a father would do. Hometown boy, Andrew W. Walker as Chase, returns to his hometown after 15 years away working as a major league pitcher.

I have to admit, I love movies when Andrew Walker or Nikki Deloach. They are two of the actors on my list of HM favorites.

My advice: Watch this movie.

A Cute Love Story

[wolfamy-59732 · 8/10 · 27 January 2019]

The main characters Chase Taynor and Jessica Parker are a couple you root for. Even though they lives are different than when they were high school sweethearts. Deep down they never stopped loving each other. You can tell when they see each other for the first time.

An Oscar worthy Movie.

[rexriver-54789 · 9/10 · 16 May 2018]

Had this movie been directed properly. Nikki DeLoach, would have won the Oscar, for Best Actress. Her supporting cast, was the best you could ask for.

The 3 things, that prevented Mrs DeLoach. From achieving Oscar status..

The tears, and anger, scene . "I'm going to lose Grandpa's business!." A Scene, where she should have throwin plates cussing and cursing in tears.. Was missing.

Who ever the F, was Mrs Deloach's makeup and hair stylists... Needs to be black listed for ever...

The pound cake makeup, on Mrs Deloach's face almost diluted her most excellent performances, however her brilliant acting skills shined Through all her excessive makeup, and her weird hair styles...

This movie was, a serious tear jerkier movie for, Everyone, who's past 40 yrs of age.

In the future may Mrs DeLoach,receive a proper Oscar role...Where her true Acting ability's may shine...

-Peace.

One of the most unintentionally funny Hallmark movies you'll ses

[mzmmtdzxd · 10/10 · 16 January 2023]

• Male lead is extremely unconvincing as a Major League Baseball player. He pitches like he's never thrown anything in his life.

• The female lead is somehow able to transform her restaurant from a casual diner to a more refined bistro within, like 48 hours. New menu and all. They also apparently cook on a electric range the size of something found in a home or apartment.

• Oh, and during this time they buy, renovate and cook in a food truck at a local festival. And I guess they were just allowed to just show up and do business at this festival, without any license or asking anyone.

• There is only two restaurants in town and no one is showing up at the diner (which is one of the two). But this all magically changes within a couple of days and people are clamoring to get inside the magically transformed bistro.

• The female lead breaks up with her boyfriend, who shows up in the crowd of her son's baseball game a couple of days later. He enthusiastically claps when the female lead makes out with the baseball player on the field.

• Not only that, but her family walks out and greets the making out couple. Everyone is clapping and did I mention this was during (or immediately proceeding) when her son's baseball game? They just start making out, everyone claps and her family/friends/ex-boyfriend come out to greet them for some reason.

There's probably 30 other laughably implausible things that take place during this movie. It's super bizarre even by Hallmark standards.

I strongly recommend watching. 10/10

-

More Here Than It Seems

[richmondadams2004 · 8/10 · 27 December 2022]

It's not an accident that the film was released near the 70th anniversary of Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier, that baseball as our former "national pastime" (reliance on traditions) served as its driving metaphor, and the film ended not simply with the Hero and Heroine kissing on the pitcher's mound, but the "red" team and the "blue" team (all too Dodgers blue, of course) came together at home plate to commemorate the-ahem-42nd "Father/Son" Baseball contest. That these factors meshed in the beginning of the Trump Presidency, even if the film probably had already been made before that era officially began, made THE PERFECT CATCH a needed cultural commentary as well.

Heartwarming

[firebird-90589 · 9/10 · 12 January 2023]

I will not do spoilers. I will say that this cast has a chemistry that makes this movie. If you love, well, love, and you love baseball and a little boy who just can't hit, you'll love this. Coming back to his home town, Chase finds the something that seems to be missing in his life; Jessica finds her old boyfriend still gorgeous, and far more charming than in high school, while her son has stars in his eyes for Chase, his hero. But, it's the winding of the story that melds the entire movie together. If you want to know the ending, well, you just have to watch it, cause this reviewer won't give you any spoilers! It's one of my favorites, and let's face it...those are hard to find, especially if it is not a carbon copy of another movie. This one isn't. Enjoy it!

The star pitcher returns home, his old girlfriend now runs the local cafe.

[TxMike · 2 April 2023]

Set in Midwest USA, filmed in Canada, this is not the typical story arc for a Hallmark movie. The two 37-ish characters were a couple in high school, then some 15+ years earlier, he went away to become a star MBL pitcher, she stayed in the small community to run the restaurant that used to be her grandfather's. She also has an 8-yr-old son whose father abandoned both of them.

His reason for coming home is that his contract had not yet been renewed, his agent was working to find him something but he also realized his major league career might be finished.

There are a couple of side stories, one of them involves the young son needing someone to help him learn little league baseball skills. Another is a boyfriend who just doesn't seem to find time for a relationship. And a competing restaurant.

Just a nice, entertaining fluff of a movie, as Hallmark movies are. My wife and I watched it at home on DVD from our public library.