As February ushers in the season of romance, Netflix has added a timely Hallmark favorite to its lineup, giving viewers an early taste of Valentine's Day cheer. The movie, An Unexpected Valentine, starring Lacey Chabert and Robert Buckley, has quickly climbed into Netflix's Top 10 movie chart, according to reports from Us Weekly. Released as a 2025 Hallmark production, the film offers a lighthearted rom-com adventure set against the backdrop of New York City, perfect for those seeking escapist entertainment amid the winter chill.
The story centers on two contrasting characters whose paths cross on Valentine's Day. Finn, played by Buckley, is a cynical artistic photographer moonlighting as a driver for a car service to make ends meet. Hannah, portrayed by Chabert, is an optimistic chocolate maker who embodies the spirit of romance. Their encounter begins when Hannah hops into Finn's car for a ride and discovers a lost engagement ring in a ring box in the backseat. Rather than turning it over to the company's lost and found, Hannah persuades Finn to join her in a citywide search for its owner.
According to Us Weekly, the premise of An Unexpected Valentine stands out in the crowded field of Hallmark romances by veering into fresh territory. "The film follows Buckley’s Finn... and chocolate maker Hannah (Chabert) is a romantic optimist, and the two cross paths on Valentine’s Day," the outlet detailed in its coverage. The duo faces a time crunch, as they must identify the ring's owner from among three possible passengers Finn drove that day while juggling their own appointments. What starts as a practical quest evolves into an unexpected connection, filled with Valentine's-themed escapades across the city.
Chabert, a longtime Hallmark staple known for her roles in numerous holiday specials, brings her signature charm to Hannah. Buckley, familiar to fans from series like Chesapeake Shores and films such as The Christmas House and Love in Store, delivers a compelling arc for Finn, transforming from a love skeptic to a budding romantic. Us Weekly praised their on-screen dynamic, noting, "Together, these Hallmark celebs make movie magic. Chabert brings her usual charm and grace to the role of Hannah, while Buckley is endearing to watch as his day with Hannah turns him from a romance cynic to a newly-converted lover."
The film's journey through New York City highlights various Valentine's Day activities that deepen Hannah and Finn's bond. From exploring surprisingly traffic-free streets to encountering festive events, the narrative builds tension through engaging obstacles. "On their journey, Hannah and Finn end up making an 'unexpected' connection with one another," Us Weekly reported, emphasizing how the story avoids overused tropes like friends-to-lovers or enemies-to-lovers. Instead, it opts for a more laid-back vibe, which the outlet described as "atypical for a Hallmark film."
Critics and fans alike have noted the irresistible chemistry between the leads. "Together, Hannah and Finn explore the surprisingly clean streets of New York City and happen upon all sorts of Valentine’s Day-related activities that only make their burgeoning affections grow stronger," according to the Us Weekly review. This natural progression from strangers to potential lovers provides a satisfying payoff, even as the plot includes some quirky elements that add to its charm.
While the movie delivers the expected happily-ever-after, it surprises with its originality. Us Weekly highlighted how An Unexpected Valentine offers "a fresh take on a familiar kind of plot that has plenty of engaging obstacles and a satisfying payoff." The review also pointed out some entertaining inconsistencies, such as the abundance of street parking in a bustling metropolis and a peculiar subplot involving a chocolate purse that stretches logic. These quirks, far from detracting, enhance the film's pure entertainment value, making it a cozy watch for solo viewers or couples alike.
Hallmark movies have long been synonymous with Valentine's Day, providing feel-good stories that embrace corny romance and wish-fulfillment. This particular title fits seamlessly into that tradition, arriving on Netflix just as the holiday approaches on February 14. The streaming service's decision to feature it early aligns with a broader trend of platforms capitalizing on seasonal content to boost viewership during colder months.
Background on the cast adds depth to the film's appeal. Lacey Chabert has appeared in over 30 Hallmark projects since 2011, becoming a go-to actress for their romantic leads. Her portrayal of optimistic characters often draws from her own poised demeanor, endearing her to audiences. Robert Buckley, meanwhile, has built a steady presence in Hallmark's ecosystem, with roles that showcase his versatility from dramatic family sagas to lighthearted romances. Their pairing in An Unexpected Valentine marks another collaboration in the network's roster of feel-good fare.
The movie's release on Netflix comes at a time when Hallmark content is gaining wider reach beyond cable television. Traditionally aired on the Hallmark Channel, these films are increasingly finding new life on streaming platforms, exposing them to broader demographics. Us Weekly noted that the film's addition to Netflix has propelled it into the Top 10, signaling strong viewer interest just weeks before Valentine's Day.
For those planning their holiday viewing, An Unexpected Valentine serves multiple purposes. Single viewers might find inspiration in Finn's journey from cynicism to openness, while couples can enjoy the shared nostalgia of Hallmark's predictable yet comforting narratives. "It’s also a great watch for those of us who are coupled up and looking to share the Valentine’s Day evening, indulging in adorable romance with the person you love," Us Weekly suggested.
Looking ahead, the success of this film underscores Hallmark's enduring popularity in the streaming era. With Valentine's Day festivities kicking off as early as February 1 in some cities through events like chocolate festivals and romantic pop-ups, movies like this provide an accessible way to participate from home. Netflix has not announced further Hallmark acquisitions tied to the holiday, but the platform's history of seasonal programming suggests more romantic titles may follow.
In a year marked by the 2025 release of several Hallmark romances, An Unexpected Valentine stands out for its urban setting and collaborative spirit. The film's lighthearted exploration of lost-and-found serendipity resonates with themes of unexpected joy, making it a fitting prelude to the love-centric holiday. As viewers stream it nationwide, from cozy apartments in Appleton to high-rises in New York, it reminds audiences that romance can bloom in the most unlikely circumstances.
Ultimately, the movie's blend of familiarity and surprise positions it as essential viewing for the season. Whether paired with wine and chocolate or a loved one's company, An Unexpected Valentine delivers the escapist reverie that Hallmark fans crave. Available now on Netflix, it invites everyone to embrace the corny, cookie-cutter charm of Valentine's Day a little early this year.