Polar Opposites is a heartwarming romantic movie by Hallmark, set in the icy, breathtaking landscape of Antarctica. The story follows Emma Rivera (played by Rhiannon Fish), a courtroom artist who embarks on an unexpected adventure to find her missing father, Ian Rivera (played by Dean McDermott). With time running out, Emma teams up with Andy (played by Markian Tarasiuk), a mechanical engineer, to navigate the challenges of Antarctica, forming a bond that sparks romance amidst the cold. Directed by Colin Theys, Polar Opposites premiered on the Hallmark Channel on January 11, 2025. The movie explores themes of love, adventure, and the importance of family during the holiday season.
Cast Guide:
- Rhiannon Fish as Emma Rivera
Emma Rivera is a courtroom artist who receives a distress call from her father, Ian, while he’s researching penguins in Antarctica. She ends up sneaking aboard a cruise ship to find him, where she meets Andy, and their adventure turns into a love story. Rhiannon Fish is known for her role as Ontari in The 100 and has also appeared in Home and Away, Neighbours, and When Love Springs. - Markian Tarasiuk as Andy
Andy is a mechanical engineer on a research mission in Antarctica. He helps Emma reach her father and they develop a close relationship while overcoming obstacles. Markian Tarasiuk has previously appeared in Virgin River, The Night Agent, and Return to Sender. - Dean McDermott as Ian Rivera
Ian is Emma’s father, a penguin researcher in Antarctica who sends a distress call to his daughter, sparking her journey to find him. Dean McDermott is a veteran actor with roles in Due South, Open Range, and Earth: Final Conflict. - Raissa Xavier as Ingrid
Ingrid is the chief officer of the cruise ship who initially denies Emma access due to lack of permit. She also has a crush on Andy. Raissa Xavier has appeared in Good Morning, Veronica, Justica, and Pantanal. - Michel Hersch as Martin
Martin is a crew member of the ship and Ingrid’s right-hand man. He is seen interacting with both Ingrid and Emma. Polar Opposites marks Hersch’s debut in a major acting role. - Maeve Quinlan as Peg
Peg is a member of the YAMCC research team who promises to send help for Ian. Maeve Quinlan is best known for her role as Megan Conley in The Bold and the Beautiful. - Elena Gowland as Gloria
Gloria is a ship guest who asks Emma for help in finding a missing bracelet. Elena Gowland has appeared in Historias Breves 2, Alma Mia, and Roma. - David Friedlander as Boris
Boris is a member of Andy’s research team. This marks his on-screen debut, having previously worked as a key grip operator. - Daria Nefodova as Doctor
Daria Nefodova plays a doctor who argues with Ian about his injured leg. This is Nefodova’s only acting credit.
Plot Summary:
Emma Rivera, a courtroom artist, receives a distress call from her father, Ian, who is researching penguins in Antarctica. Desperate to find him, she sneaks onto a research cruise ship bound for the frozen continent. There, she meets Andy, a mechanical engineer on a research mission, and the two are forced to work together to reach her father. As they venture through the cold, their shared journey sparks a romantic connection. Along the way, they face challenges but also discover what really matters—love, family, and the spirit of adventure.
Why You Should Watch:
Polar Opposites is the perfect movie for those who love romance mixed with adventure and beautiful snowy landscapes. The movie offers a unique setting in Antarctica, where love blooms amidst cold surroundings. With great chemistry between the leads, touching moments, and heartwarming themes, this movie is a must-watch for anyone looking for a cozy, romantic holiday film.
