THE SECRET: DARE TO DREAM

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THE SECRET: DARE TO DREAM movie poster
Raising three children in Louisiana, widow Miranda Wells (Katie Holmes) struggles to make ends meet while dating her boss/boyfriend Tucker (Jerry O'Connell). A destructive storm brings new problems and helpful stranger Bray (Josh Lucas) into her life. Things begin to change for the better, but the new arrival with his positive attitude has a secret that could change everything.

This inspirational family drama is engaging - even without action and violence. Based on, or more inspired by, Rhonda Byrne's 2006 bestselling self-help book "The Secret", the feel-good film is formulaic but entertaining. Director Andy Tennant ("Sweet Home Alabama") co-wrote the original screenplay with Bekah Brunstetter and Rick Parks. The story holds interest until the secret is revealed, then slowly rolls along to a predictable conclusion. It helps that Katie Holmes, Josh Lucas and Jerry O'Connell make the shortcomings forgivable. Lending able support are Sarah Hoffmeister (Missy), Chloe Lee (Bess), Aidan Pierce Brennan (Greg) as the Wells children and Celia Weston as Miranda's mother-in-law Bobby. Cinematographer Andrew Dunn fills the screen with lush Louisiana landscapes to accompany composer George Fenton's melodic score. While light on romance, this cinematic pleasure is in the same vein as Hallmark and Lifetime movies. "The Secret: Dare to Dream" is positively uplifting. (3/5 CAMS)

Rated PG (for language and an injury image)
Running Time: 101 minutes

Streaming VOD on July 31, 2020.

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