: Many reviewers from Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb praised the natural chemistry between leads Natalie Hall and Evan Williams, which makes the "best-friends-to-lovers" trope believable.
: Some critics found the dialogue unrealistic and the backstory of the main characters underdeveloped. Watch Midnight at the Magnolia (2020) CF
The story centers on Jack and Maggie’s plan to introduce their "significant others" to their families during a live New Year's Eve broadcast at "The Magnolia," a jazz club co-owned by their fathers that is currently struggling financially. When both are dumped shortly before the event, they decide to pretend they are dating each other to save the broadcast. As they maintain the charade, they are forced to confront long-buried feelings and decide if their relationship is truly just a performance. : Many reviewers from Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb
: Critics at Plugged In noted its G-rated, virtually "content-free" nature, making it a safe choice for family viewing. When both are dumped shortly before the event,
Reviews for the film are generally mixed, with critics and audiences divided on its predictable nature versus its "feel-good" charm. :