In "Groundswell", a woman realizes her boyfriend/boss is a jerk and runs off to Hawaii to "find herself" in this unoriginal Hallmark movie.

Plot summary and other info
"On the heels of a personal and professional setback, Chef Emma travels to Hawaii where she meets Ben, a handsome, reclusive surf instructor whose lessons help her to regain her footing."
Released in 2022, "Groundswell" was filmed in O'ahu and stars Lacey Chabert and Ektor Rivera.
Interesting fact!
"Groundswell" is based on the novel of the same name by author and Food Network personality, Katie Lee. She was an executive producer of the film and has a supporting role as one of the judges in the cooking competition.
My thoughts
Even with Lacey Chabert, who is so likeable in every role she's in and the beautiful backdrop of Hawaii, the film fell flat for me.
"Groundswell" tells the same old tired story of a dissatisfied woman who runs back to her family where she can "find herself"; at least this time around we get to see gorgeous Hawaii.
The storyline dragged on and I found myself getting impatient waiting for the movie to finally end.
I didn't think the two main characters, Emma and Ben, had any romantic chemistry.
For me, the highlight of the movie was Aunt June and all of her pearls of wisdom.
While it was interesting to learn about the history of Puerto Ricans on the Hawaiian Islands; I was disappointed that they didn't focus on Polynesian culture.
Most memorable line
"Emma, you need to stop giving that man all of your power."
Final rating
This is a movie that I would be happy to never see again!
On a scale of 1 to 5, I give it a 1
What did you think of "Groundswell"? Let me know in the comments below.
Diane Lopez
The book is Mexico not Hawaii