As the season of love approaches, Great American Family is serving up a brand-new premiere that is sure to satisfy your cravings for heartfelt storytelling and scenic escapes. “Love for Starters,” starring Stephanie Bennett and Jonathan Cherry, is set to make its network debut on Saturday, February 14, at 8/7c.
If you’re a fan of the “enemies-to-lovers” trope, small-town charm, and mouth-watering culinary battles, this is one movie you won’t want to miss. Here is your ultimate guide to the cast, the plot, and why this movie is the perfect “appetizer” for your Valentine’s Day weekend.
The Plot: A Clash of Creativity and Cuisine
The story follows Olivia Adler (Stephanie Bennett), a high-achieving interior designer based in the bustling city of Seattle. Olivia is on the cusp of the biggest promotion of her life—a partnership at her firm—but her plans take a sharp detour when she returns to her childhood home in Crescent Lake.
Her father, Peter, is struggling to keep the family’s lakeside restaurant and hotel afloat. In a desperate move to save the business, Peter hires a “secret weapon” without Olivia’s knowledge: Dax Hutton (Jonathan Cherry), a celebrity chef from New York City who recently suffered a high-profile fall from grace.
The conflict is immediate. Olivia wants to preserve the nostalgia and tradition of her father’s establishment, while Dax is determined to implement a sophisticated, modern overhaul to prove he hasn’t lost his touch. As they race against the clock to prepare for a grand reopening—and an impending visit from the very food critic who panned Dax’s last venture—the duo must learn to compromise. Somewhere between the kitchen renovations and the menu tastings, the heat in the kitchen turns into a different kind of spark.
Meet the Stars
Stephanie Bennett (Olivia Adler) Bennett is a familiar face to fans of uplifting television. With a background in hits like Shadowhunters and numerous romantic dramas, she brings a relatable blend of ambition and vulnerability to the role of Olivia. In “Love for Starters,” she perfectly portrays the “big city girl” rediscoverng the value of her roots.
Jonathan Cherry (Dax Hutton) Cherry brings the necessary “edge” to the role of the disgraced celebrity chef. Known for his versatility in both comedy and drama (including appearances in Final Destination 2
Why ‘Love for Starters’ is a Must-Watch
Great American Family has carved out a niche for providing “comfort viewing,” and this film fits the bill perfectly. Here are three reasons to add it to your DVR:
- The Scenery: Filmed in the stunning locations of British Columbia (doubling for the fictional Crescent Lake), the movie is a visual treat. From sunset boat rides to cozy lakeside interiors, the setting acts as a character itself.
- The “Enemies-to-Lovers” Dynamic: There is something inherently entertaining about two experts clashing over their crafts. Watching Olivia’s design eye go head-to-head with Dax’s culinary ego makes for great dialogue and even better romantic tension.
- The Theme of Second Chances: At its heart, this isn’t just a romance; it’s a story about career pivots and family loyalty. Both Olivia and Dax are at crossroads in their lives, and the movie explores how sometimes, losing what you thought you wanted leads you exactly where you need to be.
How to Watch
Mark your calendars for the network premiere on Great American Family, Saturday, February 14, at 8/7c.
If you prefer to stream your movies, you’re in luck! Subscribers to Great American Pure Flix can catch the streaming premiere a few days early, starting February 12.
The Verdict
“Love for Starters” is a reminder that the best things in life—and the best recipes—often require a bit of trial and error. Whether you’re watching for the interior design inspiration, the delicious-looking food, or the sweet romance, this movie is a heartwarming addition to the Great American Family lineup.