Production began last week in Vancouver on UP’s original movie “The Town That Came A-Courtin’,” starring Valerie Harper, Lauren Holly, Cameron Bancroft and Lucie Guest. The film is produced by Odyssey Media Inc., and directed by David Winning.

The movie is based on best-selling author and syndicated columnist Ronda Rich’s novel and loosely based on an experience she had during a book tour. Sheryl J. Anderson wrote the adapted script.

“The Town That Came A-Courtin’” will make its world television premiere on UP in January 2014.

Abby Houston, played by Holly, is a smart, beautiful, successful author and fiercely independent Southern woman. As the story begins, she is curiously being kept captive in a remote cabin in the woods by an obsessed fan.

Days earlier, Abby and her publicist Jamie (Guest) were visiting the town of Bliss, Miss., on her most recent book tour. The town of Bliss, local Magnolia Blossom B&B owner Charlotte (Valerie Harper) and their well-meaning prayer chain have big plans for her — as the perfect match for their widowed mayor, Spencer Alexander (Bancroft), a single dad of two.

A series of collisions, several bouquets and numerous good words later, Abby relents to having dinner with Spencer, and finds a handsome, earnest man.

Eagerly encouraged by the entire town, they embark on a whirlwind, public romance. But just as they are about to share a first kiss, Spencer is reminded of his late wife and abruptly pulls back.

Hurt and sad, Abby is determined to leave Bliss behind, only to find her obsessed fan waiting. With phones buzzing and the town mobilized, what happens next will determine her future.

“UP is thrilled to have the always-inspirational Valerie Harper as part of our talented The Town That Came A-Courtin’ cast,” said Barbara Fisher, UP’s senior vice president for original programming. “Joined by Lauren Holly, Cameron Bancroft, and Lucie Guest, this uplifting, sometimes bumpy romance showcases how a community’s spirit and good will can help people connect and find each other.”

Follow the cast at:    
Valerie Harper on Twitter @ValerieHarper and on her Web site, valerieharper.com
Lauren Holly on Twitter @LaurenHolly and on her Web site, laurenholly.com  
Lucie Guest on Twitter @Lucieguest.
UP can be seen in more than 61 million homes on major cable systems including Comcast.