Of the two leads, there is more familiarity with Ali Liebert (this reviewer has liked what has been seen of her acting and most of the films she's been in). Have not actually not seen very much from Brett Dalton, but he did impress in one of last year's best Hallmark Christmas films 'One December Night'. The most familiar name to me here is Kimberly Sustad, who has consistently impressed whether lead or supporting. While not a new idea, 'Cooking with Love' did sound charming.
And it was. While not cooked all the way through, which is true of all the Hallmark films centered around food, 'Cooking with Love' is cooked just about enough and is pretty good on the whole. Not perfect or great, but it is a good representation of both leads and has a lot to recommend it. Liked all the 2018 Countdown to Valentine's Day films, of which 'Cooking with Love' is one, and while it is not the best one ('A Secret Valentine') it is proof that Hallmark fillms should not already be dismissed.
'Cooking with Love' is formulaic, with surprises and originality being very little (anybody who has seen any of the culinary set Hallmark films will know exactly what to expect as the formula is followed closely). Did find the ending on the slightly undercooked side though sweet and not as too tidy as most Hallmark films).
Preston Vanderslic is amateur hour in an unnecessary, out of place unlikeable role that adds absolutely nothing to the story. While it was not awkward and was there, there could have been more chemistry between Liebert and Dalton, a relationship that could have been fleshed out more and perhaps utilised more.
Libert and Dalton are immensely engaging and charming leads, Dalton has a nice understated charisma and Liebert never seemed bored and personally didn't find her acting forced at all. Sustad also doesn't disappoint and has a very appealing, amiable personality that has been present in almost all her roles (do wish there was more of her though). Other than Vanderslic's, the characters were worth caring about and they are not too perfect or have flaws taken to extremes (the latter is a common problem with Hallmark, and Lifetime, and is a bit of a big bugbear).
The production values are easy on the eyes, the scenery doesn't disappoint and there is nothing slipshod about the filming. The music fits well enough and doesn't feel over-scored and it's directed competently. Really liked the light-hearted-ness and warm heart that the script had, and it flowed naturally and didn't come over as cheesy or over-sentimental. The story is a long way from perfect, but it has charm and is light-hearted.
Overall, not great but solid Countdown to Valentine's Day effort from Hallmark. 7/10.
