Jackie Moore in the lead role is outstanding. Her character has had a bit of a difficult life (romantically), though, really, it seems it wasn't her fault. She's chosen to be an optimist, but has to learn that life doesn't always grant all one's specific wishes. Nevertheless, she is so likable the viewer can't help root for her, unrealistic dreams or not. Jack Pearson is also likable and one roots for him early on. And as much as I usually like Joey Lawrence, in this film he plays the bad guy, romance world-wise, though he plays it well, of course.
I won't spoil the film by giving away the plot, but I've never seen this story before. There are interesting character here, including the co-stars, and the film satisfies throughout.
I must warn true fans of rom-coms not to put too much into reviews where the reviewer trashes the entire story, actors, director, etc. I see those reviews as written by people who are not really fans of the genre, and who perhaps instead should be looking for the next Academy Award's Best Picture nomination. Rom-Coms are not meant to be that sort of film. If one is going to completely disparage what is in fact a very entertaining movie within this genre, they are reviewing the wrong films. Now obviously, of course, everyone is entitled to review what they want and to state their opinion, but you the rom-com fan should be aware that when someone trashes a rom-com that badly, they might not really be the fan that you are, and you might actually enjoy the movie being reviewed. I did enjoy this one--thoroughly!
Bottom line--give LOVE BY DESIGN it a try. As for me, I just hope Jackie Moore treats us to another rom-com, and soon.
