'Five More Minutes: Moments Like This' (2022)

Opening thoughts: Although Hallmark have always varied wildly when it came to their sequels, some good, some around average and some mediocre at best if that, 'Five More Minutes: Moments Like This' was seen because of liking the first film very much, one of Hallmark's better films that year. Also for Hallmark completest sake, having been watching many as part of a completest quest started in 2019.

'Five More Minutes: Moments Like This' is a respectable effort, both as a follow up and as a film and one of the in the middle category follow ups. It is admittedly nowhere near as good as the first 'Five More Minutes', which as said was one of Hallmark's best from that year, and is uneven story wise. It does though do a lot right, including the acting and the refreshing portrayal of children. While not being one of the best of the 2022 Miracles of Christmas block, it is also not one of the worst. In a block that had misfires like 'Maple Valley Christmas' and 'Christmas Bedtime Stories', as well as two of Hallmark's best ever films in 'Time for Him to Come Home for Christmas' and 'Gift of Peace'.

Good things: There are plenty of good things here. My overall feelings on Ashley Williams are a little conflicted, she can be very charming and there is no doubting her commitment but she can have a tendency to overact and has had characters that have been difficult to like. Thankfully her performance here is closer to the former category and she brings a good deal of heart to her role. Lucas Bryant is an amiable and empathetic leading man, with a more likeable character and more subtlety without any signs of mailing it in. The supporting cast are solid, particularly for Adam.

As said earlier on, this reviewer really appreciated the more mature than usual (for Hallmark that is) portrayal of children, refreshing compared to the cutesiness and brattiness seen with younger characters in some Hallmark films. On paper, the subplot where this is more obvious is remarkably adult and beyond the years with potential to be inspiring and relatable. It is attractively made, appropriately scored (not intrusive or manipulative) and the writing is generally sincere and flows naturally. There are moving moments.

Bad things: However, there are things that could have been executed better. There is nothing original here, with everything mapping out pretty much exactly with too little tension and too much schmaltz. Adam's subplot had a good deal of potential, really was inspired and related to it on paper but felt that it was not focused upon or used enough.

Furthermore, the ending is too neat. Really didn't buy Williams' character's change in attitude towards Bryant's, too much of a suddenly introduced and rushed 180.

Closing thoughts: Overall, above average if a little lacking.

6/10.

7.3 stars.

This is Hallmark Christmas movie #159 for me this year. I noticed about 2 days ago that I'm nearly burnt out. I might delete the 60 or so that I have left and re-record them next year. I'm making room for regular Hallmark films, no more Christmas... TBD.

That being said, this movie has several touching moments, but also very much the opposite. I am conflicted about the chemistry, and there's no reason for it other than she needs that "Five More Minutes". Other than that being the moment that this whole story pivots around, I can see no reason for the haphazard behavior that prevails throughout.

On the bright side, I learned a lot from the childrens' interactions, which teaches us that "everyone needs a friend". How the kids get along so well, is a testament to the innocence and innate humility of children, and we should strive to be more like that.

One major concept we learn as we go is that the lead male is the most like a child of the adults, and he's showing her this at every turn, but she repeatedly misses the point. Where the story shines are in the micro moments of magical communication between them, which is a real eye opener. These are the moments that I really savor with Hallmark, and unfortunately are so rare I have to comment here and now. This leads me to the next point, which is 'Five More Minutes: Moments Like These', has a vast multitude of frustrating moments, sprouting from inconsistent behaviors in the leads. Many interactions between them are strange and unrealistic. How many times does a couple need to look into each other's eyes with a love and passion and just ignore the obvious? The real estate aspect of it was not realistic either. There is no way they are putting condos where that house stands, it makes no sense, they are not in a location that would permit it, zoning doesn't work that way. I can think of several others, but I'll let you see for yourself.

If you don't believe in immortality of the soul, this film will be lost on you. It's a theological discussion left for another place and time. The prophetic touch is interesting, nothing like any Hallmark theme I've seen to date... almost a 'Time Traveler's Wife' intermingled with spiritual prognostication. It's only tread upon lightly, nothing to invasive.

Have a look see, I think everyone should see this movie once.

I really loved this film! If you have never lost someone, you may not get into this movie. If you have lost someone, this film may make you feel better!

I love Ashley Williams as an actress. She does a remarkable job of an angst-ridden mom. A single parent's job is tough.

Adam is a sweet boy who really misses his dad! When he starts to make friends, it is so lovely to see him come out of his shell. Without giving anything away, I loved how he warmed up to all of the strangers he met.

The original Five More Minutes movie was a favorite and this one is becoming one as well. Trying to navigate what your children want vs what is best for them can be heart-wrenching!