Pop culture writer and aspiring novelist Vanessa Sills lands the interview of a lifetime with the illustrious, elusive and reclusive mystery author Martin Clayborne in his quaint rural town only to realize her own aspirations, dreams and romantic life have taken a back seat along the way. When Vanessa returns home to Portland and a mysterious gift arrives from Martin, she then makes a surprise decision, and finally takes her own advice to “go boldly in the direction of your dreams and live the life you imagine. -The Hallmark Channel
Just My Type (2020) film review: The Hallmark Channel
Starring: Bethany Joy Lenz & Brett Dalton |Genre: Romantic Comedy/ Feel- Good | Runtime: 1 Hour 24 Minutes
This review does not include spoilers.
Bethany Joy Lenz is by far one of my favorite actresses. I know her from back in the day of One Tree Hill. A few years ago when she started appearing on the channel, I became more excited. As her other movies, Just My Type was phenomenal. Bethany brought her A- game to set and helped deliver a performance that truly connects viewers to her character and the movie. I found myself attached to this storyline more so than others. Each tiny facial expression, head nod, and “awkward” moment she portrayed helped bridge the gap between some character in a movie to what we all may go through in various seasons of life. On the flip side, I couldn’t recall previous movies Brett Dalton had been in that I watched. I know I’ve seen his other work, but I couldn’t place him because his acting never really stood out to me- until this movie. When I think of Brett Dalton I will automatically associate him with Just My Type. I enjoyed the emotional journey he took us on. I could feel every crossroad he came to and understood his character decisions as if they were a debate of my own. His energy, interpretation of the script, and the chemistry with Bethany’s character were top notch and I could not imagine this movie without him. Bethany and Brett worked in harmony to achieve this Hallmark Channel 2019 Spring Fling masterpiece.
You Might Also Enjoy:
Writing and dialogue
The script was witty, heartfelt and adventurous while feeling like home. The dialogue was smooth and the scripted awkwardness wasn’t cringe worthy or redundant. I also enjoyed the supporting character’s dialogue. Oftentimes, I’m annoyed with the lines the best friend or family members deliver but I can tell how much intentionality and time was put into creating this particular script. I particularly loved the symbolism and puns incorporated. The screenwriters did a phenomenal job of zooming out of the character’s adult lives and showed us how their childhood dreams and behaviors had foreshadowed were they were today. It was all around refreshing to watch a movie that was about love but not the entirety of every single scene or line between the male and female lead. This movie showcase the importance of community support, confidence, and disciple in addition to true love. I particularly like how the relationship was developed between Vanessa and Martin. There wasn’t a big dramatic fall out or moment of betray- this movie showcased a very real side to navigating love and relationships that other Hallmark Channel movies have simply missed out on. Just My Type proves you don’t need scenes dripping with drama to deliver a beautiful love story. The natural journey of life mixed in with timing are compelling enough to tune in.
I loved everything about the locations. Throughout the entirety of the film I found myself wanting to visit the town and stop by all the places we see on screen. At commercial I even tried Googling for something similar near me! I have watched this movie every time it has been on since the original premier and I have the next showtime scheduled in my calendar. I absolutely adore this movie and I find something new in it each time I watch. There aren’t many movies in general I willingly sit down to re-watch, but Just My Type is the exception. Next year is going to be difficult coming close and surpassing the likability and quality of this movie.
rating:
Click here for an overview on the rating system!
I completely agree, what a wonderful movie.