_Safe Haven_ is classic Nicholas Sparks territory, complete with sweeping romance, small-town charm, and those intense emotional beats that tug on your heartstrings. Yeah, it’s predictable—but in that cozy, familiar way, like a warm blanket on a rainy day. It may not break new ground, but if you’re looking for a romantic thriller with a little extra drama, this one’s got you covered.

Julianne Hough plays Katie, a woman on the run with a dark past. She lands in a sleepy North Carolina town where she meets Alex (Josh Duhamel), a widower with two kids and a heart of gold. And here’s the thing: the chemistry between these two is legit. Hough and Duhamel make the romantic tension feel natural, their connection pulling you into the story, especially when their budding relationship starts to feel like Katie’s only shot at a fresh start.

But then, _boom_—the thriller element kicks in, and everything shifts gears. Katie’s abusive husband, Kevin (played with unnerving intensity by David Lyons), tracks her down, and suddenly we’re in a game of cat and mouse. Lyons nails the role of the obsessive, unhinged ex. He’s got this wild-eyed, unpredictable energy that brings a darker, edgier tone to the film. You feel his desperation, his insanity, and it’s both terrifying and effective.

What sets _Safe Haven_ apart from other Sparks adaptations is that thriller twist—there’s more than just love in the air. Katie’s past isn’t just something she’s trying to forget; it’s actively hunting her down, and that gives the film a suspenseful edge that keeps you engaged, even when the romance dips into familiar territory. You’re not just waiting for the rain-soaked kiss (though, trust me, it’s there); you’re waiting to see how Katie will finally confront the danger looming over her.

The pacing is solid, and visually, the film is stunning. Hallström knows how to capture that Southern charm—lush landscapes, beautiful sunsets, and yes, plenty of those trademark Sparks moments with water-soaked kisses. But when the action scenes hit in the third act, things start to feel a little clunky. The big confrontation between Katie and Kevin? It’s tense, but there’s a Lifetime movie feel to it that’s hard to shake. It’s like they tried to mash up a romantic drama with a thriller, but the pieces don’t always fit together smoothly.

Now, about that twist ending—it’s the kind of thing that’ll either have you rolling your eyes or nodding along with a satisfied “Ohhh, I get it.” It’s a surprising turn that feels a little tacked on, almost like they weren’t quite sure how to wrap things up. I mean, does it work? Sure, in a “this is totally a Nicholas Sparks movie” kind of way, but it’s definitely not as mind-blowing as the movie seems to think it is.

At its core, _Safe Haven_ is still a heartwarming, sweet story. It deals with some real, heavy issues like domestic abuse, and I give it credit for adding that depth. Katie’s journey from trauma to trust is compelling, and her struggles feel real, even if the overall execution sometimes stumbles. It’s one of those movies that tries to do a lot—romance, mystery, thriller—and while it doesn’t always hit every note perfectly, it’s still an enjoyable ride.

If you’re a fan of Sparks’ work, you’ll definitely find something to love here. It’s got all the trademarks: star-crossed lovers, small-town charm, and a happy-sad ending. But for those looking for a bit more grit and less fluff, you might find yourself wishing the movie leaned harder into its darker elements. Still, if you’re looking for an easygoing movie night, _Safe Haven_ delivers—just don’t expect it to break the mold.

Verdict? A cozy romantic thriller with some solid performances, even if it sometimes veers into cheesy territory.