Review

"Sweeter Than Chocolate: A Hallmark Movie That Ate Too Much Sugar"

If you’ve ever wondered what would happen if a Hallmark movie and a Willy Wonka fever dream had a baby, Sweeter Than Chocolate is here to answer that question. Released in 2023, this film is so sweet, it might just give you a cavity. It’s like Hallmark holiday movies decided to skip the eggnog and mainline pure sugar syrup instead.

The plot is as predictable as a Hallmark movie marathon in December: small-town girl (who inexplicably runs a chocolate shop despite never eating chocolate) meets big-city guy (who’s allergic to fun but somehow still charming). Together, they embark on a journey to save her failing business, solve a mystery involving a missing family recipe, and, of course, fall in love. Spoiler alert: there’s a lot of chocolate, a lot of awkward flirting, and at least one scene where they accidentally get flour all over each other. Classic Hallmark.

The dialogue is cheesier than a fondue pot at a Hallmark holiday movie convention. Lines like, “Love is like chocolate—bitter at first, but sweet in the end,” are delivered with such earnestness that you’ll either swoon or cringe so hard you pull a muscle. The supporting cast includes the obligatory quirky best friend, the wise old mentor who speaks exclusively in metaphors, and a dog named Cocoa who steals every scene he’s in. (Honestly, Cocoa deserves an Oscar.)

Visually, the movie is a feast for the eyes—if your eyes enjoy pastel colors, perfectly frosted cupcakes, and an unrealistic amount of snowfall in a town that’s supposedly in the middle of spring. The chocolate-making montages are so indulgent, you’ll be tempted to pause the movie and raid your pantry.

In conclusion, Sweeter Than Chocolate is the cinematic equivalent of eating an entire box of truffles in one sitting. It’s over-the-top, ridiculously sweet, and utterly ridiculous—but sometimes, that’s exactly what you need. If you’re a fan of Hallmark movies, you’ll love it. If you’re not, well, you’ll probably still watch it because, let’s be honest, who can resist a movie where the climax involves a chocolate fountain?

Final rating: 3.5 out of 5 marshmallows. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s definitely sweeter than your average Hallmark holiday movie. Just don’t forget to brush your teeth afterward.