Review of Happiness for Beginners (2023) by Tvjerry — 05 Aug 2023

I haven't watched a Hallmark movie in years, but this feels like an escapee from their catalog. Ellie Kemper (best known as Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt) is struggling to find herself after a divorce. Luke Grimes (the son on Yellowstone) has been carrying a torch for her for years.

They end up on wilderness hike thru the mountains of Connecticut, where they bicker in the obvious ways before they finally kiss. There is absolutely nothing about this plot or the circumstances that's original.

Kemper continues with her sweet smile and infectious charm, while Grimes plays it sullen. Their chemistry is OK. There are some supporting characters that add bits of fun, including Nico Santos as the gay camper (literally), Ben Cook as the bossy guide and Gus Birney as the ditzy chick.

Despite their minor contributions, the rest of this film lacks any originality and the delayed romance isn't especially rewarding. The generic title doesn't help.