Review: The Beach House

Disclosure: I have ALWAYS loved Hallmark Hall of Fame (HHOF) movies, including the commercials. Even they make me cry. So the fact that I enjoyed the latest HHOF entry The Beach House is not that surprising. The reason why I liked it so much did catch me off guard. My favorite part of this television movie was the luminescent and endearing Minka Kelly. I had heard of this actress before but this is the first thing I ever remember seeing her in. I was captivated by her smile, her heart and her performance. She carries the film and I will look forward to seeing her in other projects. Chad Michael Murray does a decent job as her ex-, and soon to be again, boyfriend. I believed they could be a couple and their chemistry was subtle but genuine. The weakest link in the cast was the most well-known star, Andie McDowell. Her performance as Kelly's dying mother was uneven. Her energy level, along with her accent, fell flat in key moments. I didn't dislike her, she just didn't light up the screen with star power like her co-stars. The plot isn't overly exciting or involved. It's predictable, low key and easy to follow. Of course there is plenty of family drama, as there is in most HHOFs. And that is their hallmark, if you will. The emotional dynamics bring on the tears and lead right into a schmaltzy but effective Hallmark card commercial that leads to more tears. If that is what you are longing for, this TV movie won't disappoint.