Hallmark’s Passport to Love series takes us to beautiful Barcelona in ‘To Barcelona, With Love.’ Starring Alison Sweeney and Ashley Williams, this romantic comedy offers stunning scenery and a heartwarming story. But is it worth your time? This review breaks down the plot, the performances, and the overall charm of this Cyrano-inspired love story to help you decide whether to stream it or skip it.
The movie focuses on Erica (Alison Sweeney), who secretly enhanced the Spanish translation of Anna Kelly’s (Ashley Williams) novel. When Anna visits Barcelona, Erica is caught in a web of deception and unexpected friendship. Will Erica’s secret be revealed, and will love blossom amidst the beautiful backdrop of Catalonia? Let’s dive into the details of this Hallmark romance.
</n
The Gist: A Literary Deception in Barcelona
Anna Kelly, played by Ashley Williams, is a romance novelist whose book, ‘Barcelona, Mi Amor,’ finds unexpected success in Spain. The catch? Erica, an American translator living in Barcelona, secretly spiced up the Spanish translation. This sets the stage for a series of comical and romantic entanglements when Anna is invited to Barcelona for a book signing.
Nico, a bookseller and Erica’s longtime crush, adores Anna’s book, unaware that Erica is the true wordsmith behind its Spanish success. Erica’s world turns upside down when Nico asks her to guide Anna, leading to a classic case of mistaken identity and hidden feelings. The movie draws inspiration from Cyrano de Bergerac, where hidden talents and unspoken affections create a complicated love triangle.
As Anna explores Barcelona, she befriends Erica and discovers her passion for food blogging. Meanwhile, Erica grapples with her feelings for Nico and the moral dilemma of her literary deception. The vibrant setting of Barcelona, filled with cultural richness, adds depth and authenticity to the unfolding drama.
‘Even the Cyrano/Roxanne plot, which has obviously been done before, is done well thanks mostly to Sweeney’s performance as a reluctant poet, feeding Anna the right things to say via text or on paper.’
</n
Alison Sweeney as Erica: The Cynical Translator
Alison Sweeney brings a refreshing cynicism to her role as Erica. Unlike the typical Hallmark protagonist, Erica is a realist, adding a layer of complexity to the storyline. Her internal conflict between her feelings for Nico and her guilt over the translation creates a compelling character arc.
Sweeney’s performance allows the audience to empathize with Erica’s predicament, even as she navigates the messy situation she created. Her chemistry with both Ashley Williams and Alejandro Tous (who plays Nico) adds depth to the love triangle, making the audience wonder who will ultimately win her heart.
Erica’s journey is not just about romance; it’s about finding her voice and owning her creative talent. As she helps Anna write, she begins to realize her own potential and the importance of honesty in relationships. This internal growth makes Erica a relatable and engaging character.
</n
Barcelona: More Than Just a Backdrop
One of the standout aspects of ‘To Barcelona, With Love’ is how the city itself becomes a character. From the aerial shots of the beaches to the intimate scenes in local restaurants, Barcelona’s culture and beauty are seamlessly integrated into the story.
The film showcases iconic landmarks like the Sagrada Familia and La Boqueria, immersing viewers in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Even small details, such as Anna’s delight in trying patatas bravas, highlight the cultural richness of Barcelona and add to the film’s authenticity.
This integration of Catalan culture sets ‘To Barcelona, With Love’ apart from other Hallmark films. The setting is not just a pretty backdrop; it’s an integral part of the narrative, enhancing the emotional resonance of the story. As Liz Kocan from Decider.com notes, ‘Maybe it’s because I have a soft spot for Barcelona, but seeing even seemingly small details… really feel like the film is dependent on its location in a good way.’
</n
Memorable Supporting Roles
While the main trio drives the plot, the supporting characters add color and humor to the film. Javier Santos, as Erica’s Spanish BFF Mateo, is a scene-stealer with his quick wit and charming presence. His character provides comic relief and a sense of camaraderie, making Erica’s journey even more relatable.
Mateo’s role is reminiscent of Rupert Everett’s memorable performances, offering a blend of humor and emotional support. His presence underscores the importance of friendship and adds depth to the overall narrative.
The supporting cast contributes to the film’s authenticity, creating a sense of community and warmth that enhances the viewing experience. These characters, though not central to the romance, play a crucial role in shaping the emotional landscape of the story.
</n
Our Verdict: Stream It
‘To Barcelona, With Love’ is a delightful romantic comedy that succeeds on multiple levels. It offers a vicarious escape to a beautiful city, a heartwarming love story, and engaging character dynamics. The film’s well-plotted narrative and strong performances make it a worthwhile watch for Hallmark fans and newcomers alike.
The love triangle between Anna, Erica, and Nico keeps the audience invested, while the friendships that develop add depth to the story. Alison Sweeney’s portrayal of Erica stands out, bringing a refreshing dose of realism to the typical Hallmark formula. If you’re looking for a charming summer romance with a touch of Catalan culture, this movie is definitely worth streaming.
</n
Final Thoughts
‘To Barcelona, With Love’ offers more than just a simple love story; it’s a celebration of friendship, self-discovery, and the beauty of Barcelona. With strong performances, a well-crafted plot, and a touch of cultural richness, this Hallmark film is a standout in the Passport to Love series. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Alison Sweeney or simply looking for a heartwarming escape, this movie is sure to charm.
The film’s success lies in its ability to blend the familiar tropes of romantic comedy with unique elements of Catalan culture. The characters are relatable, the setting is captivating, and the story is both heartwarming and thought-provoking. As you watch Anna and Erica navigate their complicated relationship, you’ll be reminded of the importance of honesty, friendship, and following your heart.
</n
Leave a Reply