Because of Cupid Filming Locations and Cast Stories Revealed
Hallmark is really leaning into romance this Valentine’s Day with Because of Cupid, a whimsical new original movie packed with love potions, mocktail competitions, and a dash of magical chaos. Starring Amy Groening and Evan Roderick, it blends best-friends-to-lovers tension with supernatural interference, all set against a charming Canadian backdrop.
Curious where it was filmed, who’s in the cast, and what went on behind the scenes? Here’s the lowdown on Hallmark’s latest swoony premiere.
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Table of Contents
A Valentine’s Day Premiere With a Magical Twist
Hallmark lined up Because of Cupid to premiere on Saturday, February 14, at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central. What better way to spend Valentine’s Day than with a story about love gone hilariously sideways?
At the center are best friends Naomi and Marcus, who enter a Valentine’s Day mocktail competition together. Things get wild when Cupid meddles with a love potion, setting off unexpected romantic chaos.
The official synopsis teases a domino effect that impacts Marcus and a handful of their friends, turning a friendly competition into a magical mess of emotions.
What the Story Is Really About
The playful premise is fun, but the real hook is Naomi and Marcus’s evolving relationship. Best-friends-to-lovers is classic Hallmark, but the mischievous Cupid and potion-fueled spiral give it something new.
The movie plays with the idea that sometimes love needs a nudge—or maybe it’s better left alone. The magical twist just ups the stakes, and suddenly the characters have to face feelings they’ve been dodging.
Filmed in Hamilton, Ontario: A Hallmark Favorite
No Hallmark romance is complete without a picturesque setting, and Because of Cupid delivers. The movie was filmed in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada—a production hub known for its charming streets and versatile backdrops.
Hamilton’s quietly become one of Hallmark’s go-to filming spots, doubling for cozy American towns and romantic cityscapes. Its blend of historic architecture and modern touches makes it a perfect canvas for a Valentine’s Day fantasy.
Behind the Scenes in Ontario
Evan Roderick confirmed filming happened in Ontario, and cast and crew shared glimpses of their time on set across social media. Amy Groening posted behind-the-scenes snapshots that showed off the cast’s camaraderie.
Director Liz Farrer shared her own moments from production. Producer Kevin Duda reflected on the journey of bringing the project to life, writing on Instagram:
Once-in-a-while, I get to see a movie to the finish line that came from my brain. From dreaming up this story, building on it with Amy Meyerson, having the wonderful Elise Speiser see its potential, collaborating with Sarah Montana’s clever wit, teaming up with the OG Ashley Squires, Larry Grimaldi and the Neshama family and crew, to working with my fave Liz Farrer and a cast of dreams including Evan Roderick, Amy Groening, Adam Tsekhman, Tenille Read, Darryl Hinds, Ric Waugh, Sarah Booth, JT Silver. It’s more than I could ask. I hope you all love this movie as much as I do. And that you all believe a little magic can happen when you follow your heart.
Meet the Cast Bringing the Magic to Life
Hallmark fans will instantly recognize the film’s leading stars. The network has a knack for pairing charismatic actors with built-in fan bases, and this casting is no exception.
With familiar faces and strong on-screen chemistry, Because of Cupid boasts a lineup designed to charm longtime viewers.
Amy Groening as Naomi
Amy Groening takes on Naomi, one half of the best-friend duo at the heart of the story. She’s built an impressive résumé across TV and film.
- Horizon on NBC
- A recurring role on Reign
- Backpackers on the CW
- Feature film Bone Cage
- Hallmark favorites including The Santa Summit and Twas the Date Before Christmas
Her warmth and comedic timing make her an ideal Hallmark heroine—relatable, grounded, easy to root for.
Evan Roderick as Marcus
Opposite Groening, Evan Roderick plays Marcus, the best friend whose emotions are thrown into chaos thanks to Cupid’s interference. Roderick’s appeared in a range of TV projects, including:
- When We Rise on ABC
- Project MC2 on Netflix
- Arrow on the CW
- Secrets of a Marine’s Wife
- Spinning Out
For Hallmark viewers, he’s a familiar face from A Tale of Two Christmases, Autumn in the City, several Aurora Teagarden films, Leah’s Perfect Gift, and Sealed with a List. The guy just has that romantic leading-man energy.
The Supporting Cast Adds Sparkle
No romantic comedy works without a strong ensemble to stir the pot. This film’s supporting cast brings humor, heart, and a bit of chaos.
According to IMDb, the movie also stars Jonathan Maxwell Silver as Steven and Sandra Flores as Lucy, with Adam Tsekhman, Tenille Read, Darryl Hinds, Ric Waugh, and Sarah Booth rounding things out.
Fun Moments From Set
The behind-the-scenes energy looks just as playful as the movie itself. Tenille Read shared candid moments from production.
- Darryl Hinds posted photos capturing the cast’s camaraderie.
- Adam Tsekhman shared a video of the Cupid shuffle, really leaning into the film’s cheeky theme.
These glimpses remind fans why Hallmark productions often feel like family affairs. The chemistry off-screen tends to spill over into that cozy, authentic vibe viewers love.
Why Because of Cupid Could Be a Fan Favorite
Hallmark’s got the holiday romance formula down, but Because of Cupid brings something extra. The magical love potion idea adds a playful unpredictability that shakes up the usual best-friends-to-lovers arc.
At its core, though, the movie carries a classic message: sometimes love needs courage more than magic. Cupid may stir things up, but in the end, it’s up to the characters to follow their hearts.
The Magic of Following Your Heart
Producer Kevin Duda reflects with genuine warmth on the film’s spirit — that a touch of magic often finds you when you follow your heart.
Honestly, that’s what Hallmark does best. This movie leans all the way in.
Set in a charming corner of Ontario, Because of Cupid brings together familiar Hallmark faces and a splash of supernatural mayhem.
Maybe you’re here for the romance, or maybe it’s the laughs. Sometimes you just want that cozy, feel-good escape — and this one’s got it: a little sweetness, a little sparkle, and just enough chaos to keep it fun.
If Cupid’s really as good as they say, Hallmark might just have another winner here.
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