Signed, Sealed, Delivered: One In A Million

Signed, Sealed, Delivered: One In A Million - A&D Review

7/25/2016

The POstables hit the jackpot once again.

With installments like this, it's hard not to think POstables have won the prime-time lottery. The perfect combination of humor and heart, Signed, Sealed, Delivered: One In A Million delivered some of the best variety in terms of talent and storytelling of any film thus far.

Piggybacking on From The Heart, One In A Million is, above all, a story about experiences, lessons learned and how to move forward, playing out against the backdrop of mail-napping, letter writer's regret, old-flame revelations and ShOliver drama.

But even personal issues can't keep Oliver, Shane, Rita and Norman from completing their sacred duty, which this time finds the POstables tracking down a mail thief targeting O'Toole's, who also happens to be holding hostage a very valuable letter the writer is desperate to get back.

We are introduced to the writer, Nikki, first thing as she mails the letter to her boyfriend, Graham, declaring her feelings of "forever kind of love" and enclosing a winning lottery ticket whose numbers were derived from the day and time they met. The pair sings duets at Montaldo's and cross paths with Shane and Oliver during their dinner, but that same evening they break up, only six hours after Nikki sent her letter, causing her to seek out Shane two days later to retrieve it.

Meanwhile, Monday morning has arrived and Shane and Oliver's dinner did not end well, as we soon learn from Shane as she recounts events for Rita. As Nikki and Graham observed of Shane and Oliver, "they know the steps, but they can't find the rhythm," and it's because the next step is to declare their feelings, which each fails to do during this particular outing. As we come to find out the result is rather devastating, with Shane in tears.

Matters seem only exasperated as their search for the serial mail plunderer requires enlisting the help of Dale, creating more tension for Shane.

Rita and Norman experience a bump in their relationship born of the revelation that Norman isn't the first man Rita ever dated. The fact she sends money to support her ex, Bob, in his endeavors to save an endangered---and apparently non-existent---species of owl only sours the situation even more.

As fate would have it, Nikki not only knew about Bob's deceit, but could ID the person responsible for the thefts. Interestingly, the man targeting O'Toole's, Dudley Curly, was not only a mail carrier, but a friend and colleague of Papa O'Toole's. Afraid to retire without ever being recognized for his work, he demands Joseph O'Toole's Dark of Night award or else he'll destroy the letter he pilfered. On a tight deadline, Oliver attempts to offer his own award instead, an act which seems to bring Curly to his senses. That, and a letter written to him by a little girl to whom he delivered mail for years, sad about the loss of her favorite mailman to retirement.

In the end, Nikki gets her letter---and her man---back, only to find out their perceived breakup was a miscommunication to begin with; Rita has an extra $50 that takes she and Norman to dinner; Dudley gets a retirement party; Lester remains single; and Oliver gathers the courage to ask for a second chance from Shane---and this time it really is a date!

Of course one of the outright highlights of this film was the return of fan favorites Papa O'Toole & Ramon Rodriguez.

Gregory Harrison absolutely delivered once again as the calm, cool, collected, matter-of-fact,Fedex-defecting Papa O'Toole. Not only did we learn more about Joe, we got to see him cheer on ShOliver, which is why he's a real MVP at all times.

Though brief, Zak's cameo as Ramon the weatherman/lottery guy was spot on with his cryptic advice and suave style. Hope he and that meteorologist work out!

Peter Hanlon played a great disgruntled mail employee. I knew you couldn't be an O'Toole at the Postal Service without making a few enemies, and Dudley Curly played a sassy one. Loved his interactions with Edwards' Kimsicle!

Our incredible main cast and "returning returners" were joined by an equally incredible supporting squad, starting with that group at Montaldo's. Nolan Gerard Funk and Emma Pedersen were phenomenal. Perhaps they should both think about taking their talents to New York for real?! The touch of Broadway brought a unique element to this film that their excellence only complimented further.

Nikolay Voronovich and Maria Nikolishina, who played Michael and Sophia, should seriously consider taking their talents to Dancing With The Stars or something because they are fantastic!

Lane Edwards and Emilie Ullerup, who are breaking the SSD space/time continuum with their assumption of new characters in the canon (Edwards played Michael in Dark of Night, Ullerup played Marie in Soulmates), brought their A-game.

Edwards' Lester Kimsicle provided some much-needed and altogether unexpected comic relief. Who knew someone could make Oliver seem chill in comparison?! And that squad with glasses he rolls with---surprised Norman doesn't want in on that!

Ullerup's Dale Travers brought a little drama along with her, but through Shane's perceptions of her and no real action of Dale's own, as predicted. That said, I'm looking forward to a lot more from Dale in the film dropping September 25---there's just still so much I want to know about her!

To our beloved Kristin, Crystal, Eric and Geoff, you once again managed to captivate our minds, imaginations, our heart, and in some cases even our souls, with your characters, allowing us to share in your challenges and triumphs along the way. What a beautiful story you've woven together with with Martha's words and your unmatched talent. To Martha, no matter what story you're trying to tell and what genre you seek to do it in, a person can't help but come away inspired. Your vision is unrivaled and while whatever we think we know coming in pales in comparison to the experience we've had once it's over. Thank you for making things exciting and layered and amazing all at the same time!

Deceptively funny for a majority, this installment had a lot to offer in terms of depth, and---as my pages of notes will prove--- material for at least two full weeks of things to discuss. Brace yourselves for the revelations and some serious time spent with that one, heart-stopping scene---you know the one!

Can you believe we still have another one to go in 2016? You can look for the next Signed, Sealed, Delivered masterpiece on September 25th. Stay tuned to A&D for more details as they become available!

Don't forget, the cast comes back together this October to film another all-new movie that will likely air in 2017! Keep letting the network know you want to see more of our POstables next year by sharing this post and joining your fellow fans on twitter (@AlamedaDowning)!

Ready For The Next Gamble,
~C

48 Comments

SSD Fan50

7/25/2016 10:07:35 am

Ms Williamson has created some wonderful characters. They are hers to command by word. I have loved SSD since the pilot and have found it to be refreshing. Having said that, as a fan I was greatly disappointed by last nights movie. It almost seemed like the director didn't have the script until almost the end. Two very interesting moments: the yellow rose of summer and the awkward moment Dale says, "that's why I love you" to Oliver. Preview for next movie looked better. I hope it is.

barbara proffitt link

7/25/2016 11:42:21 am

disapointment is a fact of life i suppose. i certainly felt that emotion last night. oliver the gentleman was absent Dale was a dud if i were Shane I would have been on a plane to D.C. that very night and the kiss at the end was a dream we deserve better

Sherri

7/25/2016 01:48:13 pm

The rose last night was yellow. In Impossible Dream, it appeared to be white. Anyone know for sure?

Judy

7/25/2016 02:05:46 pm

There is a videology on this blog site under impossible dream called "getting to know her" the rose bush is show and appears to be yellow. By the way, the video is great!

SSD Fanatic

7/29/2016 01:07:08 am

I have to agree. I'm a HUGE fan of SSD. I think it's one of the best, if not the best, TV series I've seen, period. That said, this installment left me not only disappointed and confused, but feeling that it betrayed the rather extraordinary episodes and movies that have come before it. The whole tone of "Million" felt, well... flippant and lacking the depth of emotion and character development the other movies have had in spades. Even the actors seemed to be disconnected and even a little awkward in their roles. I hate feeling disappointed by an SSD movie (didn't think that was possible!), and hoping like crazy the next one brings back the class-act script and acting we saw in "From Paris with Love" and ALL the others. Please, please!

SSD Fanatic

7/29/2016 02:30:30 am

Yes, I just posted, so apologies for posting again, but I just watched the film (four days late) and have to get my unsettled and still whirling thoughts out somewhere. I'll apologize in advance for the bit of a rant.

Martha Williamson, you have more writing talent in your pinky finger than most of us will ever dream of having! I've been in awe of the intricate script writing and character development in SSD. So what happened with "Million"??? Why does it feel like our beloved Postables characters just got sacrificed on the altar of a rushed and ill-fitted and, dare I say, weak (but trumped-up) plot? We've spent two years-TWO YEARS!- building up to this critical point in Shane and Oliver's relationship, and when they finally, sort of? decide to move forward the "dance" felt terribly awkward and out of character. In fact, I had a hard time reconciling this Shane and Oliver in "Million" with the same characters in "The Treasure Box" and earlier incredible episodes. It almost seems they, Oliver in particular, digressed in maturity in this film. What happened???

Ok. Again, my apologies. Rant done. Just had to vent some frustrations.

All that said, yes, I know there's another movie coming out. Withhold judgment and all that. Will I be watching the next installment? Absolutely. But I admit it will be with as much wariness as anticipation. I've snapped up every SSD DVD they've released so far, but I'll seriously question buying this one. Which makes me feel bad... and realize how very wrapped up and emotionally attached to these characters I am.

Chandel link

7/29/2016 03:36:08 pm

I think you should keep coming back to A&D in the coming weeks to see if your opinion doesn't change. There's a lot happening in this film that it really does take some time to digest before it becomes apparent!

Beth

7/29/2016 07:42:54 pm

I think you are exagerating about the actors! They played their roles just as well as they always have! I was a little dissapointed that the date didn't go well but I understood that Oliver let his fear of rejection and fear of moving on after he thought that Shane even for a moment had Rejected him rule him. he was scared to call it a date. Notice even in the valentine he didn't refer to it as a date. But the actors were NOT awkward! Seriously he DID ask her out officially at the end of the movie! Look foward to the next movie and quit insulting the movie by calling it Flippent. and Shane had Plenty of Depth and emotion and so did Norman and Rita.And the Dream kiss which is what most of the complainers are upset about, Well I think that was what Oliver and Shane were both wishing would happen so they were picturing it but were afraid to act on it! First dates are usually awkward anyway. especially when the guy is too afraid to call it a date! LOL!I bet since he officially asked her out at the end of the movie, the next one will be AWESOME! And the synopsis that I read for LWY refers to Shane and Oliver's Blossoming Romance!

Lyle M

7/25/2016 10:25:02 am

Liked it overall. But the imaginary kiss during a fantasy dance? Haven't decided if it was thrilling or condescending.

Inkling Muse

7/25/2016 11:56:25 am

MW is not the sort of producer to wander aimlessly so perhaps judgments should be held. She has the vision for the Postables, not the fans. I am guessing that "loose ends" get tidied up a great deal in next movie and last night will end up being satisfying.
Note to Oliver: what's up with Dale? Your armor is slipping dude.

Beth

7/25/2016 11:15:13 pm

Pretty sure Oliver was covering up the fear of commtting to Shane. Dale isn't someone he could see himself with permanently but Shane is. But he does Concider Dale a friend. He was probably trying to convince himself that there was nothing to that. Even He looked uncomfortable when Dale made that Comment. I knew he'd eventually come to his Senses as soon as he stopped letting fear rule him. And he did in the end! Next movie should fix all that!

Leora Kemp

7/26/2016 02:51:43 pm

Before going over to Shane, Oliver saw both Shane and Dale in his glance. He bypassed Dale, walked right to Shane, both passed by Dale as he said they needed to talk, then proceeded to ask SHANE for a date. That boy's got his head on straight now. (Thank you, Ramon!)

Ashley

7/25/2016 12:20:58 pm

Yes the fanasty kiss me thought at was what just a dream kiss but friend kept me tell me you got a kiss and think we will Shane and Oliver in lost without you or other movie :) either Martha is just teasing preparing us for the hope and a future :)

Sherri

7/25/2016 01:54:11 pm

The music to the fantasy dance was "If I loved you" which really set the mood. Shane and Oliver have feelings for each other (obviously with the insecurity Oliver showed when he discovered he was not the first to bring Shane to Maltanodo's and Shane's reaction to finding out Dale was the police officer crush all those years ago and was still an active part in Oliver's life.) The replacement of Shane and Oliver with the dancers was a clever way of showing what the other was thinking. Kudos, I enjoyed it.

Judy

7/25/2016 01:58:26 pm

It reminded me of the way they envisioned themselves when reading Jonathan and Katherine's letters in Treasure box. It was a glimpse into their hearts.

Judy

7/25/2016 12:52:15 pm

I enjoyed the movie and the purpose of the movie. Martha always has a message she is trying to convey, and I totally respect her for that mission. I thought the movie had great one liners, and very sweet moments. It showed how tender the character's hearts are since they each have issues to work thru. I absolutely love papa o'toole. He is a huge asset of this series, plus I love his smile😉. I could get caught up in realistic timing, but for me, the message far out weighs any "artistic license...to deliver" I think Signed Sealed Delivered will always be my favorite. Thank you cast, crew and Martha Williamson!

Patsy

7/25/2016 04:37:24 pm

Totally agree! I enjoy the story and acting. The artistic beauty far outweighs any need for realism. The messages are wonderful and uplifting in a time so full of hateful activity throughout the world. I watch the episodes over and over, and this one may turn out to be among my favorites! I have already watched it twice.

Sherri

7/25/2016 01:46:39 pm

I watched it last night and enjoyed it. Picked up on some things that were said that will lead into the next movie (such as Papa O'Toole hiking again and Shane quoting scripture). No romance is without awkward moments. They are finding their way and we are watching it. I love Norman's jealousy of Rita's previous relationships. It rather leads you to believe Rita is his first serious relationship. Cannot wait to see where Martha takes us next.

Martha WIlliamson link

7/25/2016 02:33:48 pm

Dear Chandel & POstable friends, Thank you for all your comments, the joyful ones, the encouraging ones, the honestly-questioning ones. It tells me that all of our hearts are so invested in this little DLO family that every moment matters and challenges everyone who loves Oliver, Shane, Norman, and Rita. There is a wonderful story behind the dance and the kiss, inspired by the amazing talents of Nikolay and Maria. They are truly professionals and champions and the loveliest married couple dedicated to excellence in their own world of ballroom dance. Perhaps in the coming days I can share that story with you all. In the meantime, Chandel, do you have a specific question about "the moment" that you'd like to ask as you prepare your "deconstruction" of last night's movie? And while we're at it, anyone who has the opportunity to re-watch the show, pay special attention to the music even in the background. As everyone's comments so accurately note, there are deeper meanings to be found everywhere, and sharing them with all of you is a great joy. With a special delivery of love to all, Martha

MmRybeth link

7/25/2016 03:07:09 pm

Thanks for these remarks, Martha, and the beautiful message you sent to us on Twitter through Crystal. We #POstables are learning to pay close attention to all the wonderful music in your films -- many of us have an SSD playlist on our devices! Truth be Told, Chandel is teaching us to pay attention to every detail! Trust that we will be rewatching often! I'm looking forward to hearing the story about Nicoly and Maria!

I loved One In a Million! It was funny, romantic, and inspiring! You and our talented cast masterfully demonstrated the paralysis that can occur when issues of the heart aren't resolved. Fear prevents us from the healing relationships we need. Only when we act with love, faith and a sound mind can we get where we need to be. You absolutely communicated the tenderness of Shane and Oliver's hearts. Their journey will slowly lead them to discover that they have each found a good person who is also the right person.

This show is the best out there on any network and I can't thank you enough for your vision and commitment to Signed, Sealed, Delivered.

Ashley

7/25/2016 04:19:00 pm

God bless you fine woman you made chandel's day

Patsy

7/25/2016 04:54:50 pm

When the storm took out my DVR box Saturday I lost every episode of SSD I had watched hundreds of times. As heartbroken as I was to lose them, I promptly ordered every available DVD from Amazon, but was inwardly dying because I feared the cable company would not get my new box installed in time for me to see One In a Million live. Blessedly, it got here in time, and I have watched it again today. SSD is about the only thing on TV that I really care about, and I hope it continues for many years to come. It is not just the wonderful stories and marvelous characters, but the way MUSIC has been used throughout the series that appeals to me. It is all a part of the genius of Martha Williamson, and I thank God for the whole package, including the actors who give life to her amazing words!

Chandel link

7/25/2016 08:46:06 pm

Martha, thank you so much for stopping by A&D! It's always such a treat to hear from you---especially when you have neat tidbits to share. I would love to ask you some questions about "that moment" and maybe even hear about Nikolay & Maria. Should I ask them here, or email you? 😀

Beth

7/26/2016 11:02:34 am

I just want to say I LOVE Signed Sealed and Delivered!ALL the movies are great! As a born again Christian I love that you aren't afraid to talk about God and spiritual things in your shows and movies. I especially liked the message of Signed Sealed and Delivered for Christmas. About Love coming down to find a person exactly where they are and not letting go! I do have one question, Though about the timing of One in A Million. The timing in the movie said it was only a week after the day after Valentines day dinner for Shane and Oliver but then Rita's wearing a summer type dress and the first rose of summer blooms by the end of the movie. How can that be in February. I have no complaints about Shane and Oliver. Other then Oliver needs to move past his fears but He kinda did that at the end of the movie so I am SO excited for the next one! I hope you and the cast will film ALOT more SSD movies. and I REALLY hope there will be one with Norman and Rita getting married AND Shane and Oliver eventually tying the knot as well! Keep up the AWESOME work! PS I LOVED Touched by An Angel too! I have all the SSD movies and my fave episodes of that show and Touched by an Angel saved on my DVR. Thanks for creating inspiring ,God Glorifying shows that the whole family can enjoy!

Elaine

4/30/2020 08:10:26 pm

Hi Martha, I am so crazy about this series, love the writing, the characters, and especially the music. Is there anywhere I could find a list of all the music songs throughout the whole series? Also, I am so anxious to know if there really is another movie/episode coming out in 2020.....and when!!!
~ Elaine

Lisa

7/25/2016 03:07:50 pm

SSD is a true masterpiece and the movie last night was no exception. I love the characters and seeing their development and growth from the pilot to the current movie. It was funny yet heartfelt and endearing. I went from laughing to crying in seconds. There were too many moments to pick a favorite but a couple of things stood out to me. One is Oliver and his dad and how they are rebuilding their relationship . The second thing is how Oliver and Shane's relationship is progressing. I love that it is taking time and effort and it's more true to life and not just a typical "movie" romance. I am truly in awe of Martha Williamson and her gift of storytelling.

Stephanie

7/25/2016 05:14:16 pm

This sounds like another great installment of our beloved SSD. Since I don't have Hallmark, sadly I was not able to see it. So I enjoy reading your posts Chandel so that I can keep up with what is going on. Thanks so much for keeping us posted. I was curious though about there only being one more movie this year. I thought there were going to be two more, one of which being a Christmas movie. I may have misunderstood, so if you can clarify this for me that would be great. I can't wait to see what else you have in store for us regarding One in a Million. Have A Wonderful Day!!!

Marybeth link

7/26/2016 10:02:55 am

I'm not Chandel, but I think I know the answer. Hallmark gave the go-ahead for the production of 4 SSD films in 2016. 3 have been made ( FTH, OIAM) -- Lost Without You will air on Sept 25. 4th will be filmed in October, but will air in 2017. We thought there'd be a Christmas film because Kristin hinted there would be one. Perhaps that was the original plan, which was altered for some reason. So we can be assured we have one film for 2017, and maybe more if Hallmark renews SSD for 2017-- hoping for that renewal as POstables can never get enough of these wonderful films.

Julie

7/25/2016 05:28:42 pm

I was just floored by One in a Million. Though I didn't get a chance to see it until this morning (Dear Comcast, HMM needs to be on the Xfinity TV app), the installment was even more precious to me as I watched on my iPhone screen. I was blown away. I love bitter/hurt Shane. I love watching Oliver out of sorts. And the music...I noticed that the words always perfectly fit the scenes. Loved Ramon. Love that he got to deliver a perfect gem of advice. Quite profound, actually. :). Papa Joe was fantastic. And what wonderful gifts we've received in 24 hours. This ep, the preview, and Martha, writing a lovely note. We are truly blessed...for this show, for the friends we've made, for everything.

Teresa

7/25/2016 07:22:58 pm

I absolutely loved this latest SSD movie. It Made me laugh and it made me cry.
The Oliver and Shane dinner explained the awkwardness of first dates.
Even though Shane and Oliver have been slowly moving to being a couple for some time now, they still have much to work through to finally reach that together forever.

Chandel wrote a great review.

Thank you Martha Williams for another fine SSD installment. I look forward to many more adventures for our POstables.

I truly love the writing of Martha.

She has this fantastic ability to take us to a fun place. Giving us a laugh, a cry and a message of hope for the future.
A time to put aside the craziness of attacks on my partners in Blue going on in our country.
There really is goodness in this world and Martha reminds us of this in each of her stories.
God has blessed Martha with a great ability for writing and we are blessed to benefit.

Thank you Martha.
Thank you Chandel

7/25/2016 08:10:21 pm

I broke out the computer and actual keyboard rather than typing this one with my thumbs on my phone. I always forget how nice the blog looks on a full screen. #Pretty :-)

As I mentioned on Twitter, I have so many thoughts about the movie, and I know Chandel well enough to know that it's unlikely that I will say anything here that she hasn't already outlined to cover in greater detail in the coming weeks, and she will do it much more eloquently than I can express here. That said, the blessing of having this blog is that it gives all POstables a place and an opportunity to try to get what we feel and think about these films out of our hearts and heads and turn them into words that develop into conversations.

I've watched the movie twice now and chosen a few key scenes to watch more than that. My first time through, I shared the same sentiment as a few others here have expressed. Frustration? Disappointment? Yet another movie where our preferred couple struggles to define their relationship and move forward. There was also confusion. It was different. Every SSD has been funny - a dramedy, as they say - but this one certainly leaned more heavily on the comedy than any previous installment. I laughed heartily, but I wasn't completely comfortable that I knew what was happening.

The second viewing allowed me to focus less on what was going to happen and more on what this movie was actually about, and I started asking myself questions. Why was I disappointed? Why was I confused? Why was I unsettled?

The answers have been tumbling in all day. First - I think we are preconditioned (often by other movies on Hallmark) to want our protagonists to get together and live happily ever after. That's not life though. I think back to the transition in my own life between friendship and something more for my husband and me. It was confusing and frustrating and took time and patience and a willingness to take a risk. That's what is happening between Shane and Oliver here. It's more real than what we are accustomed to seeing, and sometimes we can be disappointed or frustrated when our fantasy world of happily ever afters veers into reality where things are complicated and bumpy. Kudos to Martha Williamson for being true to these characters and their pace - not as a plot device to keep people coming back, but as an honest attempt to show what it takes to develop a deep relationship that is meaningful.

Second - I realized that Martha Williamson did something really amazing in this movie. She put the audience in the same position of her characters. Shane and Oliver (and to some extent Rita and Norman) are in a state of flux. They are struggling to find their rhythm in a new version or phase of their relationship. As an audience, we were placed into a comedy yesterday. Our characters (though maintaining the same innate qualities that has made us love them), were being seen from a new angle and through a new lens. I was just as confused about how to think and respond to the movie as Oliver and Shane were about how to respond to each other.

I could go on, but this is WAY too long already. There is just soooo much going on here, and I am once again grateful for a place where I can get all this out of my head - in addition to being grateful for such an incredible movie franchise.

Berly/schweetmoe

7/25/2016 11:05:10 pm

I really appreciated your post. I felt similarly. While watching the "live" showing, I was too distracted to REALLY understand what was going on. I was trying to tweet and was dog sitting a dog that kept wanting me to take him outside. My mom came over to watch it with me. (Which is one thing I love about this series, I found it because my Dad died and it is something that I can share with my mother now. But I digress...) . The flashback aspect was hard for me. Not for me to follow, but since we don't know everything that happened at Montaldo 's until the end, the behavior we see from Oliver in particular throughout the movie was confusing at times. After knowing the whole story and rewatching the movie, I have a greater depth of understanding and appreciation for it. I like that it was more comedic. My mom and I literally laughed out loud. And now I am going to stop typing. I guess I should have broken out the laptop rather than using the phone keyboard for this. If you have read this far I than you and I apologize for taking up your time. I am usually not this wordy. Can't wait to watch it again and again. #POstables Rock!

Beth

7/25/2016 11:20:53 pm

Couldn't have said it better myself! I REALLY hope people will quit whining and don't let the dissapointments keep them from tuning in to the movies!It would be horrible if the show ended before things could be resolved just because the "fans" get too impaitient and quit watching!

Beth

7/25/2016 11:17:43 pm

As for the Armor Slipping remark, Come ON! Even Oliver isn't perfect! He's allowed to make mistakes too! And it's not like he made out with Dale or something or even kissed her! And Again he DID come to his Senses.

Skye

7/26/2016 12:27:38 am

It took the 2nd viewing for me to catch it, but I totally think Dale was basically a foil for Holly, especially toward the end - she represented the past, and Shane (obvs) is Oliver's future. Oliver just needed that final push to get past the hurt & the pain. He's made his decision - he's moving forward, with Shane by his side. :)

Inkling Muse

7/26/2016 01:12:13 am

I disagree. Oliver was written to be the perfect man - flawed with issues to be addressed during the show. But he is a mix of gentleman, chivalry, read the blogs on this site that pertain to Oliver. To see him in a situation like that with Dale - it was shocking. No man is perfect, all of us are flawed. I just didn't expect it from Oliver.

Beth

7/26/2016 11:25:45 am

Well you are intitled to your opinion but you should remember that there is NO such thing actually as the "perfect man" Only Jesus holds that title! Oliver isn't perfect and shouldn't be placed on a pedestal. besides, like I said, all he ever did is hug Dale. She made the comment about loving him which obviously made him uncomfortable.Sides that he DID come around at the end of the movie! The next movie should tie things up pretty well.

Inkling Muse

7/26/2016 09:11:10 pm

Entitled to my opinion? Right. But it isn't my opinion. It is the opinion of this blog. Read the Oliver blogs. My opinion is that Oliver is damaged, broken after what Holly did to him. But hey.

Susan

7/28/2016 03:53:49 pm

Could someone please clarify what situation is being referenced here that was "so shocking" and an indication that Oliver's armor was slipping? I am quite befuddled. Thanks.

SSD FAN

9/12/2016 08:49:35 pm

The elephant in the room is that up until very recently, Oliver was a married man. So why is Dale saying, "That is why i love you"?

Marybeth link

7/25/2016 11:50:33 pm

I agree with you Beth. The complaining bothers me because these films are interconnected and viewers must be patient. What sets Signed,Sealed,Delivered over most usual rom-coms is its incredible depth and intricacy. One viewing is not enough. Be patient gentle viewers--a work of art is unfolding--watch it's beauty evolve!

As for Dale, she has a job in the plot and that's for Oliver to be forced to make a choice. Will he risk his fear of committing to someone intimately, or will he choose a safe superficial relationship with someone who does not reside in his heart. He made the choice to challenge himself--he chose Shane. Oliver had no other interest in Dale--she's an old choir friend from church. He knows who he wants; things can only get better from this point on!

Beth

9/12/2016 09:35:03 pm

Well He wasn't married anymore when Dale said that!

Beth

7/26/2016 11:27:03 am

Exactly!

Beth

7/29/2016 07:30:47 pm

Susan, People are over reacting to the fact that Oliver gave his longtime friend Dale a hug and was hanging out with her more during the movie. From what I could tell, He saw her as just a friend and was kind hiding bihind there friendship to avoid his feelings for Shane after the fear of Rejection he had when Shane didn't get his valentine and he thought she was lying about that in the last movie. People are acting like he cheated on Shane or something but I don't think that is what happened at all. The only thing he did was let fear hold him back from calling the date a date. He fixed that in the end though when he specifically chose Shane over Dale and asked Shane on a real date. Dale however I think DOES like Oliver in the romantic way. Oliver would NEVER rush like that into a relationship with Dale after he was avoiding confronting his feelings for Shane for so long. I think the reason he's so comfortable with Dale when he can't get past his fear of a relationship with Shane is that he Doesn't love Dale as more then a friend and he DOES love Shane romantically. And that love for Shane scares the heck out of him! But he CHOSE Shane! The next movie should be AWESOME and the Synopsis for it said Romance between Shane and Oliver.

Susan

8/1/2016 03:03:30 pm

Thanks, Beth, for the clarification. I am surprised that people are astonished by Oliver hugging Dale. Remember way back when he hugged his dance instructor when they met on the corner with Shane, Rita and Norman spying on them? Oliver uses hugs of greeting for people with whom he is not emotionally connected. It is truly an indicator of friendship and nothing more. At the end, Oliver explained, without specifics, to Shane and, perhaps himself, what was going on with him as regards Dale when he says that when life gets complicated one finds oneself falling back on the traditional, the familiar. Dale is just that. He has known her for 15 or 16 years seeing her at least twice a week at choir practice and church services.and has never had a relationship with her. In the midst of his feelings for Shane becoming complicated by his fear of abandonment and rejection, that makes Dale familiar and safe. That's why Oliver is startled and uncomfortable when Dale says, "That's what I love about you, Oliver." Suddenly she's showing interest and is not safe Now things are more complicated and he has a choice to make: Dale, the woman on whom he had a secret crush and now sees an actual possibility of a relationship or Shane, the woman he has come to know more deeply through shared experiences, each guiding, supporting and forgiving the other at critical times. In his moment of decision at the end, he is perhaps recognizing in Shane what he admitted he did not know in "The Future Me": what real love looks like. The "dance" ("Oliver, are we dancing?" "No, Ms. McInerney, we are not.") of indecision is over.

PS We all know that Shane and Oliver didn't really kiss in the fantasy sequence, don't we? They came close, but it was the dancers who kissed.

Lori

7/26/2016 04:25:34 pm

I hesitate to say much because I have not had opportunity to see the movie but have read posts and comments. I am at a conference this week hearing many peoples stories of brokenness and restoration. Sadly it just doesn't happen in a 2 hour time frame. That is why we want more and more of SSD. Hallmark movies are sweet, kind of like candy. They meet, fall in love, have a spat and get back together in last five min and life is wonderful. That hasn't been my experience though it is nice escape sometimes. But real hope comes when we see people fight through adversity and fear and take real difficult steps and overcome. So sometimes when our lives are less than romantic or awesome at the moment we just want easy romantic fantasy. Hurry up. But for me whose life hasn't been very easy and who has fought the fight for love to last I can appreciate Martha showing us that love is hard work, not a sweeping emotional high. The actors are amazing at conveying all these emotions till we are feeling the pain with them. And we are cheering them on because we want to cheer our own lives on. We all need hope that real love exists and is available. But it the truth is that it is work. A good work but work nonetheless. So thank you Martha, Kristin, Eric, Crystal and Geoff. We appreciate the journey and the hope.

Ansderson Wallace

8/1/2016 02:33:59 pm

I had the chnace to watch the movie after reading your review, and I have to say: "It is a great review." This episode was very comical to be a SSD movie, so I really enjoyed because I love comedy, but when Oliver and Shane were about to have dessert, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" (instrumental) was heard in the background, I LOVE THAT SONG!!! it takes me back to my childhood (all those memories) best part for me. Then I began thinking: "Have we trials and temptations?" What is going to happen next? I think the trailer is an answer. I can't wait to see when things get complicated. I love complicated too. THANKS FOR THIS BLOG AND EVERYTHING.

5/18/2019 09:31:40 pm

Lester: O'Toole.
Oliver: Mr Kimsicle.

Love it when Oliver puts people in their place.

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