a reverse 'white palace'?

ok, so they couldnt afford james spader or susan saradon. this love story seems like it occured in the 1920's or 1930's, a huge wave of immigrants some clinging to ancient customs others seeking a modern world. maybe a story about somebodys grandmother, it seems like it could also be an orthodox 'urban legend', ooohh, mingle outside the faith and you are in trouble.
i can guess natasha lyonne wanted the lead, at one time she was the next big thing (see 'slums of beverly hills').
i can only praise the male lead with being smart enough to snag the featured love interest in 'mad men'.
this film was sort of ok,but who sponsored it? HALLMARK!!!! could you ram that down my throat another 1000 times. lots and lots of commercials...zzzzzz