Cast
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Jessy Schram
as Gwen Turner
Luke Macfarlane
as Dave McKinley
Marcus Rosner
as Alex
David James Lewis
as Bruce
Cardi Wong
as Greg
Derek Green
as Charles
Drew Ray Tanner
as Kian
Benita Ha
as Doctor
Ronald Patrick Thompson
as Waiter
Robyn Ross
as Cookie Actress
Maja Milkovich
as Restaurant Woman
Mark Brandon
as Pitchman
Manoj Sood
as Optometrist
Yvonne Chapman
as Mia
Barbara Pollard
as Katherine Turner
Crew
Director
- Peter DeLuise
Writer
- Julie Sherman Wolfe
Producer
- Harvey Kahn
- Jean Abounader
Reviews
Reno
**For some people, the DELAY steers them to the right path.**
This is the first Hallmark film I'm watching after the end of the winter. When it is the Christmas season, I always go for the Hallmark films, but I got interested on this after learning about the plot. If you are very familiar with Hallmark films, you will know what to expect and how to enjoy them. I totally got entertained. This story is obviously not fresh, but refreshed with the great characters.
Gwen is who just tuned 30, was expecting the marriage proposal from her boyfriend, but nothing happened. She's an ad filmmaker, as her focus slipping away from the duty for not getting married, then she meets a new workmate, whose their initial impression does not go well. But later they start to have feelings for each other. If that's true how they are going make it real was revealed in the rest of the film.
Some of the lines were very nice. Well executed utilising fine cast and locations. Jessy Schram was simply amazing and also the plus point of the film. The rest of them were not bad either. Since it is a television film, it did not go past the 90 minute mark. That means well paced narration with the well developed storyline. I think it will work better for family audiences. But I suggest it for everyone, if they watch it with low expectation. Surely worth a try, particularly in a date night.
_7/10_
Feb 26, 2017
Thematic Analysis
The Birthday Wish represents a fascinating example of TV Movie/Romance cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Peter DeLuise brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2017, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Birthday Wish took approximately 16 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 84 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 143 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 332 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 2017, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Birthday Wish shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike 13 Going on 30, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Birthday Wish offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Jeannie, Bakit Ngayon Ka Lang? and Mr. Destiny explore similar territory, The Birthday Wish stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: January 21, 2017
- Runtime: 1h 24m
Where to Watch
