: Reviews from Common Sense Media highlighted a complete lack of diversity in the cast. Ratings & Availability Midnight at the Magnolia (2020)
: A common criticism is that the film follows every rom-com cliché, making the ending obvious from the start.
: Many reviewers from Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb praised the natural chemistry between leads Natalie Hall and Evan Williams, which makes the "best-friends-to-lovers" trope believable. Watch Midnight at the Magnolia (2020) CF
(2020) is a lighthearted, family-friendly holiday romantic comedy directed by Max McGuire. It follows Maggie (Natalie Hall) and Jack (Evan Williams), childhood friends and co-hosts of a popular local radio show in Chicago, who decide to fake a relationship to boost their ratings and secure a national syndication deal. Plot Summary
: It is often cited as a higher-quality alternative to standard Hallmark movies, perfect for a cozy holiday viewing. Weaknesses : : Reviews from Common Sense Media highlighted a
: Critics at Plugged In noted its G-rated, virtually "content-free" nature, making it a safe choice for family viewing.
Reviews for the film are generally mixed, with critics and audiences divided on its predictable nature versus its "feel-good" charm. : Weaknesses : : Critics at Plugged In noted
The story centers on Jack and Maggie’s plan to introduce their "significant others" to their families during a live New Year's Eve broadcast at "The Magnolia," a jazz club co-owned by their fathers that is currently struggling financially. When both are dumped shortly before the event, they decide to pretend they are dating each other to save the broadcast. As they maintain the charade, they are forced to confront long-buried feelings and decide if their relationship is truly just a performance.