A Machu Picchu Proposal, directed by Colin Theys, is one of those breezy, sun‑splashed romances that knows exactly what lane it’s driving in. It’s light, it’s earnest, and it’s built for that specific mood where you want a getaway without leaving your couch. The film leans into travel‑romance fantasy with a wink, giving you a week in Peru full of mishaps, big feelings, and well‑meaning chaos.
Rhiannon Fish brings her usual grounded warmth to Katie, the sibling drafted into managing her brother Dan’s elaborate Machu Picchu proposal plan. She’s the translator, the emotional referee, the logistics coordinator — basically the entire engagement department. And just when everything seems lined up, Alec Santos’ Chef Carlos arrives like a human curveball. Santos plays him with such sincere, lovable clumsiness that every ruined proposal attempt feels less like sabotage and more like fate nudging the story where it wants to go.
The Peruvian setting adds a welcome layer of color and charm. Theys uses the scenery almost like a supporting character — bustling markets, sweeping mountain vistas, and family gatherings that feel warm enough to step into. It’s not a deep cultural dive, but it’s vibrant and inviting, giving the film a sense of place that elevates even the more predictable beats.
Where the movie really clicks is in the slow‑burn chemistry between Katie and Carlos. Their dynamic shifts from exasperation to genuine connection in a way that feels pleasantly old‑school rom‑com. Katie’s mission to salvage her brother’s proposal becomes a lesson in loosening up, embracing spontaneity, and letting life surprise her — something Carlos embodies effortlessly. It’s sweet, it’s familiar, and the actors make it work.
Is it reinventing the genre? Not at all. But A Machu Picchu Proposal is a cozy, good‑hearted watch that delivers exactly what it promises: romance, scenery, and a few well‑timed laughs. It earns a cheerful 3 out of 5, the kind of movie you finish with a smile. You can stream it now on Hallmark+.
MPAA Rating: TV-G.
Runtime: 83 mins
Director: Colin Theys
Writer: Juliana Wimbles
Cast: Rhiannon Fish; Alec Santos; Lucia Caravedo
Genre: Comedy | Romance
Tagline:
Memorable Movie Quote: "It's gonna be a special trip."
Distributor: Hallmark +
Official Site:
Release Date: June 28, 2025
DVD/Blu-ray Release Date:
Synopsis: Katie (Rhiannon Fish) agrees to join her brother Dan and his girlfriend Luciana on a trip to Peru. Dan plans to propose to Luciana in a grand way at Machu Picchu at the end of the week and needs Katie's Spanish speaking skills to ask Luciana's Peruvian father for his blessing. However, when Luciana's friend, Chef Carlos (Alec Santos), arrives, he accidentally ruins each proposal attempt. Refusing to give up, Katie does everything in her power to make this proposal happen, until Dan calls it off. Katie must lean into Chef Carlos' spontaneity to not only save the day and the proposal, and Carlos may just win Katie's heart too. Starring Rhiannon Fish and Alec Santos.
