'Two Tickets to Paradise' (2022)
Opening thoughts: The 2022 Summer Nights block was a mixed bag. Was mixed to positive on 'Hidden Gems', liked 'Caribbean Summer' quite a lot, but didn't care for 'Moriah's Lighthouse'. 'Two Tickets to Paradise' sounded very appealing premise-wise, one of the year's more appealing ones from Hallmark because despite its predictability it sounded really charming. Have liked Ashley Williams and Ryan Paevey (both Hallmark regulars) in other things, though the filmographies for both are very up and down as are their performances.
Of the 2022 Summer Nights films, 'Two Tickets to Paradise' is the best, by far, and it really does live up to its quite adorable title (that is not too corny this time). While it is not quite perfect, this reviewer liked it very much, found it one of the best 2022 Hallmark films and a very good representation of both Williams and Paevey. Both giving performances that are among their best. The story may not be mind-blowing in 'Two Tickets to Paradise', but even that aspect has a significant amount of charm.
Bad things: Did find the ending rather rushed and too pat, though the final act doesn't frustrate anywhere near as much as others in the 2022 Hallmark batch.
Also found some of the dialogue rather cheesy.
Good things: So much comes over well though. Really liked both Williams and Paevey in their roles. Williams brings a lot of perky energy to hers and it didn't come over as over the top, and while Paevey is more subtle he is very likeable and natural. Their chemistry is very at ease and sweet, with nothing forced, even if it does not quite scintillate. The supporting cast are all solid and the characters were all things worth connecting with, none annoying or boring me.
It is a very attractively photographed film with stunning scenery. Also pleasant is the music, which has presence without coming over as over-bearing or too constant. The direction shows a good deal of confidence and a sense that they knew what they were doing and trying to achieve. The script flows well on the whole and is light hearted while not coming over as too sappy. Even though rather typical, there is at least a story and it is one with charm and heart and is lively in pace.
Closing thoughts: Concluding, very well done.
8/10.
