Notes of Autumn (2023 TV Movie) User Reviews

Hail to Vivaldi!

[paulclaassen · 7/10 · 1 October 2023]

If you've been following my blog, you'll know by now that I'm not a huge fan of romantic comedies - simply because I find them predictable. While 'Notes of Autumn' is also every bit predictable, the journey isn't as clichéd. This film also explores a heterosexual and a gay romance all in one. It's like 'The Holiday' with a gay twist.

The first thing about the film that grabbed me, was how likable the characters were, and how wonderful the actors portray them. There's great chemistry between all the characters, not only the romantic ones. I enjoyed the character set-up, and the natural flow of the film. It was relatable instead of sensational, and I loved that.

The absolutely gorgeous Luke Macfarlane stars as novelist Leo Carrington, who is suddenly experiencing writer's block with his latest novel. His editor suggests a change of scenery to inspire him. Leo's best friend is Ellie Matthews (wonderfully portrayed by Ashley Williams). She is working for an event management company but constantly finds herself distracted - by music - and is fired as a result. Also needing a change of scenery, she suggests to Leo that they swap places for two weeks.

So Leo heads off to stay in Ellie's apartment. Only, she never told him she gave access to her kitchen to her chef friend Matt (Peter Porte), who is gay. And Leo never told Ellie he promised his friend Sam (the delicious Marcus Rosner) that Ellie would help him with a music show. Through many hilarious moments, romance ensues.

I enjoyed the fact the romance didn't feel forced. It developed in a very natural way, and the characters were really sweet. I also liked the way sex was the furthest thing from their minds, and their respective relationships were based on true emotion (not lust). Honestly, 'Notes of Autumn' had me smiling from beginning to end; overcome with an unusual sensation of absolute joy! This was just fabulous. I loved it!

Amazing chemistry between Luke and Peter

[miroslavbasicp · 7/10 · 5 November 2023]

It was a typical Hallmark movie, nothing overly special but still cute. For me the main quality of this one was the amazing chemistry between two brilliant actors Luke MacFarlane and Peter Porte, they just both radiate with kindness and warmth in this movie and make probably the best pairing ever seen on Hallmark. They have so much crazy chemistry that my suggestion would be for Hallmark to make another movie with their characters with Peter opening his restaurant and Luke writing a cookbook for him, it could further develop and cover their love story which was only just superficially shown here. Their two characters and them as a duo definitely deserve another movie together, such chemistry should not be wasted. Wish the focus was more on them and not the other couple. Marcus was great, but Ashley is a bit too over the top and gimmicky in her acting.

Pretty much what you expect from Hallmark...

[lumaestri · 5/10 · 18 September 2023]

... bad acting, fake sets and predictable moments.

But I wanted to review it just cause in the few instances I've seen gay characters on Hallmark, then I've checked reviews here and it was honestly hilarious: all they do is their usual predictable love story and then share a peck in the last 3 minutes.

And then I came here to find reviews like: "well, I just wanted to relax, I didn't came here to find political propaganda" or "I don't know why Hallmark needs to do movies like these"...

People finding outrageous such a completely plain movie just cause of the gay factor was really something. If you can't even enjoy a movie because of that, wow lol.

Cheer up and revisit your priorities in life.

A bit of a yawn fest..

[ts-0000 · 18 September 2023]

Think that Hallmark has run out of new ideas,therefore we get a recycled(modern)version of much better older movies.

Still feel Ashley comes across fake in Hallmark productions,which again falls on those in charge.

If this movie was in Autumn it felt really blah from color to scenery,was the props department on a budget?

Anyway predictable with clichés.. Could fall asleep & wake up to feeling nothing was missed,which makes for a bad storyline.

Will point out at least.. It wasn't about a fest,yay!

Overall was cast decent & acting average,feel they did the best possible with scripts given.

Use to look forward to new movies,but find myself skipping more than anything.

Want a movie that gives you,Autumn feels? Personally recommend,looking elsewhere or not watching this one.

Ashley Williams can't act

[brian_spence_ni · 7/10 · 19 September 2023]

While the main female lead cannot act (it's like watching cardboard - how is she employed?) the film in general was okay. I do like Luke McFarlane in general - he's very engaging- and the premise was quite interesting. I'd defo prefer another main female lead; its just awkward watching Ashley, she's so painfully hard to view, but overall not a bad film, and I'm so happy to see gay story-lines become that much more mainstream. Feels like we're actually starting to b part of main-stream culture, which i love. There were a few quiet patches in the film, but i did enjoy it and would recommend to any of my friends.

Boring, Predictable Drivel

[elizabethjeanhampton · 2/10 · 17 September 2023]

While the main actors and actresses are decent, the writing was poor and too predictable - even for a Hallmark movie. The 2023 Hallmark movie releases have been disappointing and we find ourselves watching older Hallmark movies instead of movies like Notes of Autumn. The musicians in the quartet that were highlighted in the movie were actually rather poor and the writing subplot was forced and unconvincing. I'd encourage everyone to look at other romantic comedies instead of Notes of Autumn. Again, while they have some decent main actors and actresses, the writing was very disappointing for this viewer.

Chemistry in Spades

[lisamlaucsr · 10/10 · 17 September 2023]

Notes of Autumn is well worth watching, for the dual main "will they or won't they" storylines to the casting to the strong element of music. I usually give any Hallmark movie a chance when Luke MacFarlane and Ashley Williams are in it, but add Marcus Rosner and Peter Porte in and you've got yourself a darn good party. And how genius it was to cast Pascale Hutton and Kavan Smith in minor, but meaningful, humorous roles. Those two together elevate any show/movie they're in.

The storylines were well written and delightfully acted and that also goes for everyone in the supporting cast. This particular ensemble worked really well together and all the pairings had a very believable, easy chemistry. Hallmark would be wise to continue tapping into the ensemble format because this movie proves it can do it very well and the possibilities are endless. If you're looking for an interesting, fun fall romcom, look no further. For me, it was like opening up a box of chocolates and finding all good pieces. Very enjoyable!

WHYYYY hasn't anyone commented on the horrible pianist fake?

[maestromeg · 1/10 · 19 September 2023]

I get that concert pianists are probbbbbbably not hanging around Hallmark studios. But would it be too much to ask that an actress playing a concert pianist actually watch one or two to see how the hands actually - shock! - follow the direction in which the music is going, high or low? I mean, after all, she IS a Juilliard grad... My husband and I about fell out of our chairs laughing at the ridiculously poor portrayal of playing the piano. And then I just got mad at how horrendous the portrayal was, again, since it would be SO easy to fake a decently realistic performance. I'm also a bit tired of the ubiquitous gay storyline. Absolutely nothing organic happening here. And it made me sadder because I loved the whimsical scenes with the story characters waiting for their new storyline. We stuck it out in hopes of redemption; alas, there was none.

Great Chemistry Among All Actors

[tdbklas · 8/10 · 18 September 2023]

This is a lovely movie and a joy to watch. No over-the-top, formulaic drama-just a nice premise about good people learning to take leaps of faith in life and love. Each of the cast members is a good fit with the other; and whether love interests or friends, they all have great on-screen chemistry. It's believable and fun, and especially nice to see a normal storyline among gay men-no one's dying or persecuted-just living a normal life with personal struggles that are relatable to all of us. Luke Macfarlane and Peter Porte make a perfect couple, as do Ashley Williams and Marcus Rosner. With its great cast and beautiful fall filmography, Notes of Autumn truly embodies the warmth of fall and is one of those films you can enjoy over and over again.

Awful

[lgroden · 3/10 · 11 October 2023]

I'm not a big fan of Ashley Williams (although I did like her role in Christmas in Evergreen), Marcus Rosner, Luke MacFarlane & Peter Porte but carried on watching because of Kavan Smith & Pascale Hutton who I love in When Calls the Heart - their cameos were very funny. The fake piano & violin playing was so obviously fake. I thought that Hallmark made films that were family friendly (they used to) & have been watching their films since 2018 & have a large collection of DVDs of my favourites. On this occasion I was glad I was watching it on my own. When you think they have made some wonderful moving films & series like When Calls the Heart, the Gift of Peace & The Presence of Love, Chesapeake Shores & Good Witch - this film definitely falls short.

Luke Macfarlane needs a new agent

[TheSilverStreak · 4/10 · 18 September 2023]

There are several memes floating around out there, poking fun at a predictable, 'spin the wheel' tool one could use to write a Hallmark movie script in three easy steps. You've seen them. First, you identify the qualifying condition to describe the central character, such as 'career-oriented' or 'recently-single.' Next, choose the career of the central character, such as 'school teacher' or 'artist.' In the film, this person always returns to their hometown for the purpose of (spin the wheel here) 'saving the family business' or 'attending a school friend's wedding.' The character then always falls in love, and here you get to pick their new romantic partner, such as 'the town's gorgeous and strangely-single lumberjack' or 'the newly widowed music teacher.' If you haven't seen the memes, you've undoubtedly seen the Hallmark film. If it's not set during the winter holidays, it's probably during autumn.

"Notes of Autumn" is right down there with the worst of them.

The plot is so predictable and thin, you can leave the room for twenty minutes while the show runs, and come back into the room not feeling as if you've missed anything.

---- SPOILER ALERT ----

The only difference here is that one of the central characters meets a same-sex date. Oh, and they actually kiss. Maybe twice.

Luke Macfarlane is actually a pretty good actor. But his talents are again wasted here. This show wasn't as painful to watch as Bros. You'll just fall asleep quicker here.

Funny movie with a great cameo.

[MIssM19 · 8/10 · 19 September 2023]

Ellie (Ashley Williams) gets fired from a job she doesn't quite love. Leo (Luke Macfarlane) is uninspired and cannot write the following book on a series he has been doing for a while. So while on the phone talking, the decide to change houses for a week to get out of the daily routine and decide what to do next. (Like, you know, one of the greatest movies: The Holiday).

On the other hand we have Sam (Marcus Rosner) and Matt (Peter Porte). They are friends with Luke and Ellie, respectively. So, while they are gone, they enjoy the company of the newly arrived. Ellie helps Sam with a music concert, which forces her to get over her insecurities. And Matt and Leo work together to accomplish their own personal goals.

I thought this was a great movie. At times maybe slow. But the story was believable and something that could actually happen in real life. Both couples had chemistry but what I would like to point out is that this is quite a funny movie and all the actors nailed their comedic lines. Probably what I liked the most: each character as their own person A pleasure to watch.

Speaking of... Pascale Hutton and Kavan Smith (My favorites from WCTH) surprised us with a small role but totally unpredictable. They never fail to make me smile.

Do not miss this.

Luke MacFarlane!

[ronterry55 · 8/10 · 18 September 2023]

Notes of Autumn set the Fall season for me. I am a fan of Luke MacFarlane, and was happy to see him in this movie. The female lead, Ashley Williams, is delightful. She reminded me of a young Cybill Shepherd.

Luke and Ashley are best buds who live in different cities. Both are having work problems and decide to switch houses for 2 weeks.

In the switch, each meets a friend of the other, and friendship and eventual romance blossoms. (It is Hallmark). Luke meets Peter Porte, an aspiring chef, and Ashley meets Marcus Rosner, who is a musician .

I am so very glad Hallmark included the gay storyline, casting two out gay actors in the roles. The movie is typical Hallmark, but it was sweet and cute and well done.. I'm hoping to watch Luke MacFarlane in more movies.

Fabulous fall movie

[mimrbflo · 9/10 · 17 September 2023]

I liked the house-swap storyline, even though it's been done before. Between the music and book storylines, and fall scenes, it was very cozy. I didn't understand the connection Marcus Rosner's character had to the storyline, and I didn't really feel much of a connection between his character and Ashley Williams' until they finally got together at the end, but I loved the chemistry between Luke Macfarlane and Peter Porte! I think their storyline could've been made into a full length movie. They were so cute together, and it's wonderful to see another LGBTQ romance on Hallmark! The Pascale Hutton and Kavan Smith cameos were kinda funny. Bless their hearts, they were trying so hard not to be as stiff as they normally are. LOL! Overall, I loved this movie! I'm going to save it on my DVR to watch again.

A few brilliant moments

[MickyG333 · 8/10 · 18 September 2023]

7.9 stars.

I don't usually give high praise for these sorts of films. You'll see what I mean if you watch it for yourself as it's very "evolved" and open-minded as a story goes. What I found to be a breath of fresh air was the timing and the brilliant story. The writing is profoundly incredible for this particular type of plot. The dialogue is superb and the emotions that it evokes are very real and fulfilling. I love the back and forth, or the switch and how there can be no resolution without each of them taking a complete leap of faith into the life they were meant to live. They must experience a foreign, yet familiar place, finding love in their opposite's best friend and finding courage under new and fresh circumstances. It's a movie about fate and trust. Wonderful film in spite of the other stuff (you'll see).

Perfect Role for Luke Macfarlane

[sonicgeekette · 10/10 · 19 September 2023]

This movie was so enjoyable to watch with a great cast. I was especially delighted to see Luke Mac.farlane playing a gay man since he has come out as being gay. He's usually cast as a straight man in the Hallmark movies (and in sci-fi) so it's nice to see him playing a role he identifies with. Ashley Williams is always a delight to watch in anything she's in. She brings so much energy and vibrance to any role she's cast in. Ashley and Luke are very believable as best friends. I love their chemistry in this movie. And what a treat to see Kavan Smith and Pascale Hutton portray the characters from the book series that Macfarlane's character writes. I love seeing these two playing a couple (The Perfect Bride, and When Calls The Heart). They were so funny at projecting Macfarlane's character's thoughts. Too bad they didn't get credit in IMDB as cast members even if they did get credit in the movie.

Fall is my favorite time of the year and I hate that Hallmark cuts it short to start Christmas movies in the middle of October. Fortunately I recorded this and other fall movies that I can enjoy the romance of fall/autumn until I'm ready to watch Christmas movies. And speaking of the romance of autumn, how about Marcus Rosner's character? How poetic was his nature tour? Kudos to the entire crew for making such a fun and entertaining movie.

one of the better ones lately. Great cast

[nclqt · 8/10 · 20 September 2023]

This could have been risky for Hallmark - 2 male favorites playing gay (as they really are. It worked for me. I was recently been blown away by the high romantic connection & chemistry in the gay romance 'Red, White & Royal Blue' - and I am straight. Hallmarks are looking a bit inhibited, or Jane Austen, in comparison. Their final kisses should look like they mean it more- rather than 2 friends who like each other congenially. I loved the comedic depiction by Kavan & Pascale as the book characters commenting on the narration. Marcus Rosner is always good too, and Ashley wasn't as over-the-top.

Better and More Fun than Most Hallmark Productions

[rich-494 · 9/10 · 20 September 2023]

"Notes of Autumn" succeeds on just about every level. There is strong chemistry between the participants in both couples. The writing is crisp, and there is a prevailing sense of whimsy that lends lightheartedness to the movie. The music is pleasant and appropriate to the theme. The acting is adequate, and it was obvious that the actors enjoyed playing their parts. For the most part, the characters are believable. The plotting is not surprising but avoids being trite. The only plot element that bothered me was that all the characters seemed able to afford impromptu air travel. The pacing is just right for the subject matter, and it never felt like the film's pace sagged.

All in all, this was a fun and entertaining movie to watch.

Great chemistry between Ashley and Marcus.

[fgwchnf · 10/10 · 2 November 2023]

I loved Ashley Williams in this movie. She brings fun, laughter and a lightness to everything. She relates well to all the characters and shares the screen with others. Luke McFarland is sweet, self-deprecating and charming. As an actor, Luke is engaging. You root for him and feel good when he is successful and gets his big win.

The movie reflects real life for so many people, myself included. We sometimes forget that doing something we love, our passion, gives us joy, is energizing and fulfilling. I was inspired!!

It's just so special to have two romances in the one movie. It was a surprise to me as I didn't read the reviews or the movie description. I recorded this one and will watch it again and again. It is a wonderful feel good movie!!

Branching out for some familiar actors

[celts-29119 · 9/10 · 23 September 2023]

So very nice seeing Marcus Rosner play a role that wasn't a pretty boy cartoon of a character. He was allowed to play a mature, smart, caring adult. All the actors were very good and seeing the "married couple" on WHEN calls the Heart play the characters in the book was really pretty funny. They were just divine camp. Luke McFarland is one of my very favorite Hallmark actors and he always intelligently plays whatever role he's given...no difference here. He is thoroughly enjoyable. Ashley Williams was given a LOT to do, and handled it well...Im not sure many of the Hallmark actresses could have pulled off that part. It's a quirky, funny heartwarming little show. Not one you want to miss.

A Winner!

[timwest-66412 · 10/10 · 13 November 2023]

I'm not a movie critic and I don't pretend to be one. My reviews are all about if it's good or not - Notes of Autumn is wonderful. The cast is fantastic and has really good chemistry. The movie flows perfectly, has great vibes, scenery and music. The storyline works really well and comes across as realistic - you don't feel like you're watching a bunch of actors, but rather, you feel like you're watching real people.

This is a movie that makes you feel upbeat and is another winner for Hallmark Channel. I hope they make more movies like Notes of Autumn since we need more cheer in this world and people really appreciate them.