‘The Magic of Ordinary Days’: A Charming Hallmark Hall of Fame Review
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**The Magic of Ordinary Days: A Memorable Hallmark Film**
Among the many Hallmark movies I've watched, *The Magic of Ordinary Days* stands out as one of the most unforgettable. My first viewing was likely on CBS, during which I was unfamiliar with Keri Russell or Skeet Ulrich. It was also one of the first films where I noticed Asian American characters on screen. Recently, I revisited this Hallmark Hall of Fame movie on Hallmark Drama, prompting me to reflect on my thoughts about it over the years.
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This film is part of the esteemed Hallmark Hall of Fame anthology series.
**Key Information:**
- **Premiere Date:** January 30, 2005
- **Original Network:** CBS
- **Country:** United States
- **Language:** English
- **Time Period:** July 1944 – Spring 1945
- **Director:** Brent Shields
- **Writer:** Camille Thomasson
- **Cast:** Keri Russell, Skeet Ulrich, Mare Winningham, Tania Gunadi, Gwendoline Yeo, Stephen Strachan, Katie Keating, Ken Pogue, Eric Winter, Jane McGregor
- **Where to Watch:** Sling TV, Prime Video, DVD
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**Plot Overview:**
Set against the backdrop of World War II and the Japanese American internment camps, *The Magic of Ordinary Days* follows Livy, an archaeology graduate student. Pregnant and unmarried, she is sent by her reverend father to marry a farmer named Ray in the Colorado countryside.
For more details, visit the Hallmark Drama website.
**A Closer Look at the Film**
The film features a compelling storyline that resonates with audiences. Livy's predicament, being pregnant out of wedlock in the 1940s, adds a layer of complexity that is often overlooked in period dramas. Unlike the *Love Saga* series, which features widowed characters, Livy’s situation was particularly scandalous for its time. Hallmark's willingness to tackle such serious issues, even within a PG-rated context, showcases the depth of the film. Livy and Ray confront their realities with authenticity, navigating the awkwardness of their situation.
Moreover, the film addresses the often-ignored subject of Japanese American internment camps, marking a significant move for Hallmark in 2005. This bold narrative choice provides a necessary historical context that adds weight to the characters' experiences.
**Character Depth and Performances**
The performances by Keri Russell and Skeet Ulrich are particularly noteworthy. Russell's portrayal of Livy captures her initial aloofness upon arriving in La Junta, yet she evolves into a sympathetic character. Ulrich’s Ray is multi-dimensional; he embodies the simplicity of rural life without falling into cliché. His character’s emotional depth is revealed through subtle actions and expressions, making him relatable.
Both characters grapple with their prejudices. Ray initially distances himself from the Japanese American workers but learns to see them as individuals through Livy's influence. Conversely, Livy's condescension toward farming life transforms as she discovers its value.
**Visuals and Technical Aspects**
The film opens with stunning views of the Colorado plains, though it is marred by an unfortunate choice of font for the title card, reminiscent of Lucida or Comic Sans—a jarring contrast for a Hall of Fame production. Additionally, a flashback sequence overlaid on a train window may come off as cheesy, but it remains forgivable in the context of a TV movie.
**Final Thoughts**
To this day, *The Magic of Ordinary Days* is one of my favorite Hallmark films. While it shares thematic similarities with *Love Comes Softly,* Livy’s unique backstory and the historical setting distinguish it significantly. Though the script follows a familiar formula, the talented cast brings depth to their characters. Keri Russell shines, but Skeet Ulrich’s nuanced portrayal of Ray truly steals the show. If you appreciate period dramas and the charm of classic Hallmark films, I highly recommend giving this movie a chance.
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