To Barcelona, with Love

6.7 stars.

This appears on the surface to be about an American woman named Erica (Sweeney) who is a translator of English novels into Spanish. She takes liberties in her work, which she isn't necessarily supposed to do; but since she is anonymous and bound by an NDA, it's permissible.

She has been living in Barcelona for about ten years and is obviously infatuated with a Spanish man named Nico. He owns a bookstore in the city. One particular novel she has translated was written by a woman named Anna (Williams). Nico and the rest of the city love the novel, not realizing that they actually love Erica's translation, not the original.

Anna has come to Barcelona to help publicize her novel at Nico's bookstore, and the rest of the story is about how both women are falling for Nico. There is also some drama surrounding the novel and how Erica's Spanish version captures the essence of the story much better than the original English version.

There is more to the story, about how both women learn from each other, because Anna lacks direction and Erica needs courage. And there is the romance (or lack thereof). Who will get the guy?

I'd like to say this is a poignant and romantic adventure, but it doesn't quite arrive at its intended destination. A lot is missing, and I feel it's a bit too silly and lacks soul. Honestly, I'm not sure what is absent, but something just isn't right. It's probably a lack of chemistry all around and I wasn't touched. I don't plan on seeing this again.

Most of the other reviews found flaws with the characterization and age of the leads. While I see where they're coming from, I can't agree with them on much.

I think they come across as real people, with real issues. The plot is not especially unique, but Hallmark rarely has totally original ideas. This was better than average by a good measure. Yes, the characters were quirky to say the least, but Ashley Williams is playing a character who lives in the moment, and she does it well.

One of you said they are playing as if younger, but I don't see that. They are mature women, still struggling with discovering themselves. For some that happens as teenagers, but some of us take much longer.

I think this is a story of discovery and hope, and having seasoned actresses makes it more meaningful.

I have very mixed feelings about this movie.

Let's start with the good: I adore Alison Sweeney. Ride or die fan since her soap opera days. Her character, Erica, was grounded, relatable, and honestly the only reason I stuck it out to the end. She brought her usual warmth and charm, and I genuinely enjoyed her performance. That said, I did side-eye her for going along with Anna's wild ideas. I expected better decision-making from a woman who clearly has a functioning frontal lobe.

Now onto Anna. Whew. Where do I even begin? Watching her was like biting into what you think is a chocolate chip cookie and realizing it's raisins. Her energy was dialed up to eleven the entire time, and not in a fun, quirky way. Her behavior toward Erica was toe-curling levels of cringe. I'm all for bold female characters, but not when they bulldoze with an endless parade of eye-roll-inducing antics.

As for Ashley Williams-look, I know she has her fans, but I'm not one of them. She's fine, I guess, but every role feels like a copy-paste from the last one. Same facial expressions, same overly peppy delivery, like she's auditioning for a permanent slot on a yogurt commercial.

The chemistry between Erica and Nico had potential. Had. But every time it started to get interesting, the whole Anna hurricane would swoop in and wreck it. It felt unbalanced and forced-like trying to enjoy a quiet dinner while someone keeps clapping loudly in your face.

Now let's talk about the ageism because-oh honey-I have thoughts. I've seen other reviews saying these women were "too old" to be gallivanting around Europe and having adventures. I beg your pardon? Since when did joy and spontaneity come with an expiration date? I'm 45, and let me tell you-I'm not some decrepit cryptkeeper lurching toward early bird specials and orthopedic shoes. Women don't just shrivel into irrelevance past 40, and the suggestion that they should is straight-up offensive. Midlife is not a personality flaw.

So, final verdict: this movie wasn't for me. The storyline felt flat, the romantic chemistry fizzled more than it sizzled, and the whole dynamic was off balance. I won't be rewatching it, but I will be rewatching Alison Sweeney in literally anything else-preferably without being overshadowed by an exhausting sidekick and a script that forgot how to be fun and meaningful.

Hey, when you watch Hallmark, do not delve into the intricacies of story or plot. Just sit back and enjoy it. Both leads, even though a bit on the older side were both adorable and fit their parts. Even the story was a bit elevated for a Hallmark movie. To Barcelona, With Love is actually a take on Cyrano. One lead wrote beautiful words for the other. While not brilliant it works and the expected outcome does come to fruition. The male lead is fine and up to his European good looking guy part. The cinematography of Barcelona shines through as well. If you are a Hallmark fan, this movie will certainly please you!

To Barcelona, With Love is easily one of the best Hallmark movies of the year - and I say that as someone who watches a lot of them. The true standout here is the dynamic pairing of Ashley Williams and Alison Sweeney, two top-tier actresses who share the screen beautifully. Their chemistry is warm and effortless.

I've seen some comments calling out their age or their quirks - and honestly, that's missing the point entirely. These are accomplished women playing layered, funny, and yes, occasionally awkward characters in a way that feels authentic and earned. It's rare (and deeply appreciated) to see a Hallmark movie that allows its characters to be both vulnerable and vibrant without leaning on tired tropes.

The writing is another high point. It's smart, timely, and genuinely funny - balancing the scenic escapism of Barcelona with relatable emotional beats about friendship, purpose, and unexpected love. I found myself laughing out loud in moments and fully invested in the characters' journeys.

If you're tired of formulaic love stories and want something with a little more heart and humor, To Barcelona, With Love delivers. Looking forward to the second part!