mfreburg-946-137541 Reviews

Undercover Angel (2017 TV Movie)

A Truly Entertaining Romance Movie

[10/10 · 30 April 2024]

Undercover Angel (2017) Amazon Prime/UP Faith & Family

Katherine Isabelle and Shawn Roberts star in this romantic fantasy. Isabelle plays Robin, a single mom whose world-traveling ex- is a very juvenile musician who is barely involved in the life of their daughter, Sophie (Lilah Fitzgerald). Roberts plays Henry, who has been assigned as Robin and Sophie's guardian angel. He is brand new to this job, and his boss, head of the guardian angel department (Julian Christopher), is Carl. Carl has his doubts about Henry, and is stern about following the rules and not deviating.

Well, Henry, newbie or not, is a caring guardian angel--one assumes it comes with the job, and once he finds that Robin is hiring contractors to help fix up her house, he puts himself in place to be hired. This will prove humorous, as Henry isn't exactly a skilled contractor.

Meanwhile, Robin makes several trips to the hardware store for everything from light bulbs to paint, and this sets up a side story involving Izzy (Britt Irvin) and her boss Todd (Matthew MacCaull). Izzy has a thing for Todd, while Todd is something of a stick-in-the-mud and doesn't get Izzy's carefree character at all. Over time, Robin and Izzy become friends and "romance confidants."

Once Henry gets himself hired by Robin, he begins learning how to be a handyman. One of his first failings is when an outdoor faucet he had worked on goes off when no one is around, and drowns neighbor Peggy's (Linda Sorensen) beloved flower beds. This opens up a chance for Robin and Peggy--once Robin fires Henry (yep) at Peggy's behest--to get to know one another.

Henry does get rehired once Peggy finds out how much he is needed by Robin--and once Peggy finds out Robin is really a nice neighbor. And Sophie and Henry share a secret at this point as well.

So--Henry gets to know Sophie better, initially by playing soccer with her in the yard. He realizes how lonely she is, and of course he feels a responsibility for her as well as Robin. Once rehired, Robin and Henry also get to know one another better.

That is the basic set-up for the story. There is quite a lot more to story, with everyone involved, including Carl, Henry's boss, but to say more would give too much away. I can say that all the actors here do a fine job, and the story is well done. I could tell you more about Robin and Henry, but don't jump to conclusions. Robin is trying to start dating again, and has to meet a couple of other guys before anything can happen in that area.

This is an interesting movie. It's fun, it's warm, the characters are compelling, and the relationships are interesting. If you get a chance to see it, I suspect you'll really enjoy it.

A Splash of Love (2022 TV Movie)

A Nice Story With Great Lead Actors

[8/10 · 30 April 2024]

A Splash of Love (2022) Prime Video/Hallmark Now

This is a Hallmark romance film starring Rhiannon Fish and Benjamin Hollingsworth, both of who have starred in several Hallmark movies as I write this. Fish stars as Chloe Turner, a PHD candidate sent to the Pacific Northwest to study Orcas. The she meets Ben Winters, a local whale-watching guide. The movie revolves around these two and their growing relationship, and joint interest in Orcas. Laura Soltis stars as the pleasant owner of the B&B, or inn, where Chloe stays. Additional characters, like the lovely Juliana Wimbles, can be found in the IMDB listing for this film.

Please note, this is a Hallmark romance movie. This is not any anything else, nor is marketed as anything else. I never fail to be amazed by other reviewers who never address the actual movie, but spend their entire review picking apart the realism of a Hallmark romance--or any romance. And since this film dealt with Chloe studying orcas, the critics had a field day. So many reviews ripped apart anything and everything about the science in this movie. They even tore down the character's reactions, as they should have been more in line with real a scientist's behavior. Good grief. Hallmark movies are not about science, or even realism in any way, shape, or form. They are love stories. If one cannot really and truly suspend disbelief when watching a film like this, perhaps they should not be watching a film like this--and they should not be writing reviews that don't touch on the actual movie once. That seems valueless for the romance movie fan who comes here to get an idea about a romance movie.

All that said, Rhiannon Fish and Benjamin Hollingsworth were both well-cast for this movie. They displayed nice chemistry for a growing relationship as the movie progressed. A lot of the critics here bad-mouthed the script, but if you're watching to enjoy a love story, which is part and parcel of a romance film, you will enjoy a number of interesting scenes, and events that are not the run-of-the-mill Hallmark romance scenes. And with the lovely outdoor backgrounds here (something Rhiannon Fish seems to be specializing in with her romance films), I think it'll be enjoyable for you.

Were there any parts I disliked? Yes--I'm not a fan of crummy boyfriends and ex-girlfriends written into these scripts just to throw a wrench into the story. Hallmark is a bit hooked on those particular tropes--but we're warned here because the movie opens up with Chloe dealing with her back-home boyfriend of the moment--a loser boyfriend we just know is headed for the dumpster. But otherwise I really like this movie., and I think you'll like it too. Do remember--Hallmark makes love stories for fans of romance movies, not for marine biologists, cartographers, or professional Academy Awards critics. Don't miss this movie if you are one of the former.

Debbie Macomber's Dashing Through the Snow (2015 TV Movie)

Meghan Ory is Wonderful, The Story is Horrible

[3/10 · 28 April 2024]

Debbie Macomber's Dashing Through the Snow (2015) (Prime Video/Hallmark Now

I pride myself on honest reviews--though I'm not going to hit the Caps Lock, get in your face, and tell you why all other reviewers either work for the moviemaker or are somehow idiots based on their ratings. How silly is that? I normally try to be objective in my reviews--however I understand that we all have different tastes. But for once I'm going to let my feelings all hang out.

I think the large number of reviews already posted outline the basic plot quite well and because they do, I needn't go into excessive detail. I also understand that with romance films, it is so important to suspend disbelief, and I always TRY to do my best to do so. However, this time I felt this movie had so much wrong with it that I couldn't ignore a myriad of issues. It was probably the story itself in the main.

I agree with the several reviewers who mentioned the boorish behavior of Dash (Andrew Walker) early on when he shoved his way in front of Ashley (Meghan Ory) to rent the last car in the airport. They could have set this scene up much easier by having brought the rental agent in earlier and arranged the car before Ashley got to the desk, thus not having to have Dash behave like such jerk--and expect us to believe Ashley would still get in a car with him. Really? There are other rental car agencies in every large city. In end, suspension of disbelief only goes so far--yes, I am always preaching it, but really? As former law enforcement, I know making a "suspect" suspicious when there is an obvious alternative is stupid. (And script-wise, I confess that I am a huge fan of Meghan Ory, so despite the fact that this is a movie, it still irked me that treating the girl badly is how things started. I now hated Dash, and would continue to hate his rude, lying self until the movie ended. Your results may indeed vary.)

Now then, the entire business with the FBI characters was beyond ridiculous, and sadly, permeated the movie. Could I have laughed it off? Maybe, and I probably should have, but I already felt bad for Ashley, and the head FBI guy, Agent Munroe (Aaron Craven) was an idiot. If we were supposed to take this story remotely seriously, what was with these clowns? In my opinion, these Hollywood FBI agents ruined the movie. This annoyed me even more, because I had really been hoping to enjoy a Meghan Ory romance film, even if Andrew Walker was being a somewhat out-of-character jerk. (Though really, was I going to give him a second chance? Nope.)

Speaking of Walker, I'm sure he simply played the role as it was written. I've seen him too many times and know he's a good actor. I am a bit tired of him lately as he comes out in a new movie every three or four days, but based on some of the lascivious comments made by some of the (apparently) female reviewers, he is probably making big money for Hallmark.

Nothing really made up for Dash's bad behavior, nor the FBI's arresting Ashley. And while I won't mention the very end, I simply couldn't buy it, and wasn't happy with it. I'll never watch this film again, regardless of my deep appreciation for Meghan Ory.

But once again, all this is simply my opinion. I rarely review a movie where I so aggressively state my opinion, but my disgust for this film just got the best of me. I'm sorry, but it gets a lousy 3 from me. If you think my complaints about the film sound bogus, do check out the movie--who knows--you might like it.

Right in Front of Me (2021 TV Movie)

Janel Parrish & Marco Grazzini Make This One Worth Watching

[7/10 · 27 April 2024]

Just to correct a couple of errors in another review, Carly (Janel Parrish) is not a fashion designer and does not work for a "major firm." She does wedding dresses only and owns her own small business with one other employee. She did study fashion design in school but as the movie begins is not designing fashion. This is why she was so busy and why it was so rare for her to have a free weekend to visit the resort where our story takes place. One other error made by this same reviewer was when he said that after Carly's visit to the resort where her friend Sydney (Hilary Jardine) is manager and where Carly met Nick (Marco Grazzini), it was not three years later when Sydney invited her up again and they went to a new restaurant that turned out to be Nick's. It was actually three months later. Perhaps minor details, but nonetheless let's keep our story straight.

Since I'm already posting a review, I'll add that this movie had a well-written script and was well-acted by (almost) all concerned. I might make an exception for Anthony Konechny, who played Matt, Carly's crush from college, who she found out quickly was not worth pursuing. Konechny doesn't seem to be up to the acting task. I've seen him in at least one other film and thought he was equally subpar in that one as well. His facial expressions are generally bad. Brandi Alexander as one of the bridal party was outstanding as usual, here, as was Jill Morrison as the bride.

I can't find too much fault with this movie, though the ending was a bit rushed, especially considering how much time they devoted to the early and middle scenes. I really think they had enough time to spend more on the wrap-up if they'd simply condensed some of the earlier parts of the film. Nevertheless, other than time allocation, which could have improved the story, I still recommend the movie wholeheartedly. I just watched it for the second (or third?) time. Janel Parrish is so darn cute, and really a good actress. And Marco Grazzini is one of the best actors doing romance films today. Give this one a watch.

The Cases of Mystery Lane (2023 TV Movie)

A Great Start to What is Hopefully a New Mystery Series

[8/10 · 27 April 2024]

The Cases of Mystery Lane (2023) (Prime Video/Hallmark Now)

Some of the reviews here are flat out wrong in their facts, so I'll try to correct them. First let's set up the premise. To begin the movie, we witness an old man open an apartment door, only to be shocked to death with a stun gun. We are told shortly after that a known gangster who has been missing for a couple of decades was found dead in a construction site. We the audience should make a connection, but for now that's all we get. On to the Case family.

Aimee Garcia (sooo lovely!) and Paul Campbell (looking goofy in glasses) play a husband and wife here--Birdie and Alden Case. Birdie Case is a lawyer who works for a law firm where her mother (Jacqueline Samuda) is the senior partner--and a demanding boss.

We find out early on that Alden Case has had a number of jobs--and no, he is not an accountant, never was. Most recently he worked in cryptocurrency, and that one cost the couple so much money to get out of that they are still paying for it. Birdie is not pleased with Alden's rotating job history. At the moment Alden is going to night school. Birdie thinks he is learning accounting, but some time ago he gave that up and wandered across the hall to attend private investigation training--without telling Birdie. This will come to light soon enough, and Birdie will NOT be pleased.

Alden is also not terribly happy with Birdie. He tries to tell her about his PI training one morning, but she seems to be WAY too interested in her co-worker Kyle (Jesse Moss), so Alden doesn't get a moment to talk to her. As the next class assignment for Alden is to shadow someone, he chooses to shadow Kyle. We witness Alden's constant mocking comments about Kyle--it's clear he does NOT like Kyle. (Nor did I).

Over the course of a day, Alden shadows Kyle, until that evening when Kyle returns to the law office after hours. Shortly after entering, Alden sees Kyle burst out the front door in a panic and drive away. Alden, puzzled, goes inside. First he goes to his wife's office and pokes around her desk--and finds legal papers for a dissolution of their marriage. Shocked, Alden leaves the papers, then as he prepares to leave, he notices a light on in another office down the hall. He goes to check it...and finds another partner, Tim (Ryan Mah) dead, hanging from a rope...and we've just got our mystery.

As Alden backs out of Tim's door, he is greeted by several police officers. They tell him to put his hands up, but instead he turns and vomits against the wall. Fortunately, Alden's story is believed by the arriving police. As he sits on the back of an ambulance a few minutes later, Birdie arrives. At this point, Alden's PI classes, Birdie's divorce papers, it's all going to come to light.

A pretty good mystery comes out of all this, and, yes, somehow it brings Alden and Birdie a bit (a smidge?) closer--though he will sleep on the couch tonight.

I'm going to leave the true investigation for you to watch and enjoy. There is actually a lot to it. There are a lot of clues to follow up. Some will be red herrings--some will not be. Will Birdie forgive Alden for lying about the PI training? Will Alden forgive Birdie for not telling him about the divorce papers? Will their marriage survive? How deep will Alden...and Birdie? ...get into finding out who killed Tim? Or was this really just a suicide? At the time the police sent Alden home, Officer Newton (Matt Hamilton, who hilariously puts air quotes around nearly everything he says) said the police were ruling Tim's death a suicide. And oh, by the way, Alden couldn't help thinking about the blue sedan that had been following him all day while he was following Kyle, which he didn't mention to anyone yet. Just what was going on with that??

I really think that this movie is both a pretty good mystery and a pretty good romance. It takes some work to create tension in a romance when the couple are already married--but they manage to do it here.

Is this movie perfect? No--it's Hallmark, and there will always be a few head scratchers, but I think you will really enjoy it if this genre is your cup of tea.

The Knight Before Christmas (2019)

A Very Lovely, Well-Acted Movie

[9/10 · 26 April 2024]

The Knight Before Christmas (2019) Netflix

I felt compelled to offer up this review because of all the highly critical reviews I read here--reviews telling us that a Christmas rom-com about a time-traveling knight was unrealistic! Who would have ever guessed that a Christmas fantasy film would fail the realism test? But hey, they are telling us, they got some very important things WRONG in this movie. There was glass in the 14th Century castle windows! The old-timey knight knew what yeast was! And so on. Well, I can see how important these details are to making a proper fantasy Christmas rom-com movie--and our reviewer experts simply had to inform us of these UTTER FAILURES by the movie makers...

...or wait...no they didn't. None of this stuff is IMPORTANT to a movie review. It's all flotsam and jetsam where movies like this are concerned. I do grow tired of saying this, but romance movies are about suspension of disbelief--some more so than others. And if the movie includes time travel, I think we can assume "more" is the operative word. So forget about all the terrible reviews. Most of those reviewers probably don't even like Christmas movies or rom-coms anyway. But If YOU DO, PLEASE read on.

"The Knight Before Christmas" is about a modern day school teacher in Ohio named Brooke, (the lovely Vanessa Hudgens) who is on Christmas break, and a 14th Century English knight, named Cole, (Josh Whitehouse). While on a hunt, Cole comes across an "old crone" (Ella Kenion), who sends Cole into the present day with instructions to complete a quest before Christmas night. Other major characters in the film include Brooke's sister, Madison (Emmanuelle Chriqui), and the local policeman, Officer Stevens (Arnold Pinnock).

When Cole is transported to the future he finds himself in the middle of a small town Christmas fair, where he bumps into Brooke, literally. As other people are in costumes, his knight clothes do not cause undo concern. We also see, as does Cole, that the "old crone" has apparently also transported to the future and is watching him. Although he attempts to get to her, he fails. Later, Cole is walking down the street when he steps out in front of Brooke's car. Though she tries to stop, she does (barely) knock him down. Officer Stevens is called, and Cole is transported to the hospital. After being checked out, he is released to Officer Stevens' care. At this point Brooke, who has also gone to the hospital, offers the use of her guest cottage, as it seems Cole is "homeless."

From here the die is cast, and we not only will see Brooke and Cole began to get to know each other, but we will also see a 14th Century knight start to learn about modern times--cars, TV, grocery stores, and so much more--often with a great deal of humor. We will also later learn what Cole's quest seems to be. In turn, Brooke learns what real chivalry is all about. You guessed it--a spark is struck. We also follow Brooke to various Christmas activities, to which Cole is also invited. A couple of exciting happenings occur over the next few days as well.

This is really a lovely story. If you enjoy Christmas rom-coms and don't bog yourself down by applying the absurd "this would never happen in real life" NONSENSE to a fantasy film, I believe you will really enjoy this movie. Seeing a modern day romance begin that is based on chivalry is a very fresh approach. I thought this movie was great.

An Hour Behind (2017 TV Movie)

A Good, Fun Rom-Com with Excellent Actors

[9/10 · 26 April 2024]

An Hour Behind (2017) Prime Video/Freevee

This rom-com stars Emily Rose as Trish, owner of a cupcake shop, and Barry Watson as Parker, a paramedic. They meet due to a time change accident on Trish's part. She is expecting to meet a lawyer that her sister and brother-in-law know named Adam, played by Casey Elliot, for a breakfast blind date the next morning. When Trish is so late that Adam gives up and bails, Parker comes in shortly thereafter and sits down at the same table. It turns out Adam and Parker were both wearing green shirts, the identifier Trish had been looking for. So when she arrives 45-50 minutes late, she sits down, assuming Parker is actually Adam, and they began chatting. Parker would have told Trish he was not this Adam she kept referring to him as, but then Trish ordered an unusual breakfast, one that he had only ever heard his late wife order. Intrigued, Parker stays, says nothing, and a date is born. A date, I must add, that lasted all day and was thoroughly enjoyed by both parties.

Sure, the premise is questionable, but remember that we're watching a rom-com. I really don't understand the many reviewers who trash rom-coms because they fail to pass the "this would never happen in real life" test. I just want to sit all these folks down, smile, and gently remind them that rom-coms ARE NOT real life. We must park our disbelief at the door and watch this sort of movie for FUN. If people cannot do that, they should seek out a different genre of movie, because realism is simply not what rom-coms are about. Moving on...

Emily Rose is, despite what you may have read in other reviews, a fine actress. (I happen to find her beautiful as well, but that's neither here nor there, is it?) She is also seven years younger than her co-star, Barry Watson, but Watson doesn't look his age and never really has, so these two are a good match--and have good chemistry in this movie.

The reason behind Trish and Parker's blind date was, as I mentioned before, because Trish's sister Chloe, played by Ali Durham, is the inveterate matchmaker in this movie. She is absolutely overbearing, as most rom-com matchmakers tend to be. When she finds out Trish met the wrong guy, she insists she meet the real Adam. Trish does so, only to find that the real Adam (played by Casey Elliot) is the most self-absorbed twit you can imagine. (I actually found myself hoping this role didn't sabotage Elliot's career, as he seems to have played mostly good guys in other rom-coms, but he played a serious jerk here).

There are a some other main characters--Parker's co-workers Tom (Scott Christopher) and Milo (K. Danor Gerald), plus Trish's employees Piper (Aubrey Reynolds) and Katie (Shona Kay). Those make up the mainstay, and all did a fine job. I'm sure rom-com regulars will recognize at least some of these folks.

So, yes, of course, Trish found out early that Parker wasn't Adam, and that caused a riff because "he lied to her." And not the first riff they'd have, either. It seems much of this movie would consist of Trish and Parker at odds with each other, or Trish trying to indulge her sister by dating "Self-Absorbed Man." Still, there are lots of other things happening, keeping us interested and wanting to find out what comes next. We know Trish and Parker are not through, and we are hoping that soon, Trish and Adam will be through. And the ending is clever.

I think I've seen this film three times now, and have enjoyed it every time. It's not over-burdened with rom-com tropes, though there are a few. The basic premise--the initial meet-cute, makes this different from the start. Emily Rose and Barry Watson carry this one and make it very enjoyable. I'm recommending this one.

The Christmas Card (2006 TV Movie)

It's Not A Rom-Com & Doesn't Pretend To Be--But It's a Wonderful Romance

[10/10 · 26 April 2024]

The Christmas Card (2006) Streaming on Up Faith & Family

It's not as if this film needs more reviews, but it needs some more thoughtful reviews. It's about an American soldier, Sgt Cody Cullen, played by John Newton, who receives a Christmas card while overseas. When he has a chance to visit the small town from where the card was sent, he does, and coincidentally meets the woman who sent it--Faith Spelman, played by Alice Evans. This was just a meeting in passing in a diner. Later, he meets her father, Luke, played by the late Ed Asner. Luke is crossing the street and doesn't see an approaching vehicle speeding toward him. Cody runs out, knocks Luke out of the way, and saves his life. In the course of Luke going to the hospital from falling in the street (better than dying), the family arriving, including Luke's wife Rosie (Lois Nettleton played the role very well), and Luke finding out it was an active duty soldier who saved him--Luke was also ex-military--a solid relationship began.

From there, Cody is invited to stay with the family over Christmas, is invited to work at the family sawmill when he mentions the desire to work, and they all grow closer over the coming days. Ed Asner is wonderful in this film, and Peter Jason, who plays Faith's Uncle Richard and co-owner (?) of the sawmill, is good as well. He adds a lot of animation to the movie.

Now then, many reviewers have criticized John Newton and Alice Evans in this film, saying, among other things, their acting was wooden. Please understand--this is not a rom-com where everyone runs around making snowmen, singing jingle bells, and sitting on Santa's lap while happily slurping hot cocoa. I'm afraid those reviewers are so used to THAT sort of Christmas movie they simply failed to realize that this was NOT that kind of film. This is much more of a drama. Not one of those heavy, boring dramas, but a drama nevertheless.

Sgt Cullen has just come from fighting in the Middle East where he has seen his friends die. He's not exactly a bundle of joy--though he IS pleasant and polite to everyone here at home. Faith lives in a small town, with her parents, and works in the sawmill office. She doesn't seem to have an exciting life, and one can see why she doesn't run around excitedly, either--though she is a very nice person as well. Eventually we learn that she has a mostly-absentee boyfriend (Paul, played by Ben Weber) whom we see shortly is--besides being a stuck-up wine salesman, a real putz. Faith acts as if she cares for him--but I always felt she was going through the motions (we never learn how they got together). Bottom line for this viewer--I felt like both Newton and Evans played their roles very realistically. Those other reviewers who wanted to see them acting like the typical, overly joyful Christmas actors in a rom-com completely misunderstood this film. It's low-key and more serious than that.

As time passes, Cody and Faith clearly are developing feelings for each other--Faith, seemingly against her will, and Cody, not really worrying too much about Paul because, well, Faith deserves better--at least it seemed to me. And Paul, who is hanging around, not only notices but overtly tries to get in the way of ANYTHING developing between Faith and Cody. He even acquires an engagement ring, not because he is all that interested in marrying Faith, but because he thinks it will give him a tighter hold on her. Yep--putz. If he had anything real to offer, he wouldn't have had to play games, but it was clear to this viewer that he did NOT have anything to offer. Still, true to her name, Faith was faithful to him. This even though her own father saw--and remarked--how much of a better man Cody was than Paul--and how much actual chemistry existed between Faith and Cody--while there seemed to be nothing real between Faith and Paul. Still, Faith was...faithful.

Eventually, circumstances became too much for Cody. Unrequited love is not pleasant. I'm not going to discuss the film's endgame--I have not read all hundred or so reviews--perhaps others have described the entire movie start to finish to the point that you feel you've already seen the movie, but I won't. I am going to say that this was a very good film. I have watched it a couple of times (or more?) and found it moving. I recommend that you watch it. Yes, it's low key, but it's warm and touching, and I believe you will enjoy it.

Vote One for Love (2023 TV Movie)

One of the Very Best Romance Films I've Seen in Ages

[10/10 · 25 April 2024]

Vote One For Love 2023 (Prime Video/Freevee streaming)

This film is about CANDACE (Natasha Wilson) a Washington, D. C.-based political operative who is sent back to her small hometown in Wyoming to assist DEREK (Jesse Hutch) in his bid for mayor. It seems Candace's company supports politicians in order to move them up the political food chain--local, state, federal positions, and so on. Well, of course, as a romance movie, the wrench in this story is that Candace and Derek were an item in high school. Candace wasn't keen on going back to her small town to help Derek, although Derek seemed okay with it.

I was not familiar with Natasha Wilson, but she did an excellent job throughout this film, and I will be seeking out more movies she's done. Jesse Hutch of course is a very prolific romance film star and needs no intro to fans of the genre. Joining the primary cast were teens Sophia Carriere as Alex, Candace's niece who is staying with her grandparents (Candace's parents), and Jordana Summer as Naomi, Derek's daughter. (Naomi's mother was a nonentity that Derek never married, as she ran off when Naomi was born). Jess Brown stars as Stacy, Derek's sister and Naomi's aunt. Those are the major actors here. All were really and truly very good.

Over the course of helping Derek to be elected mayor, Candace realizes just how perfect Derek is for the job--she just needs to get his campaign in order--it was not when she arrived--but over the coming days she gets things done. She and Derek also seem to realize over the next few days that they probably missed out on something good in high school. At this point it might not be a conscious realization, however, but we the viewers can tell. They aren't quite ready to face this with each other--living in different states with different careers and all--but Candace's niece Alex isn't missing any of this, nor, it seems, is Derek's sister. Daughter Naomi on the other hand is not at all keen on the idea of her dad and Candace getting together--she told Alex that Candace wasn't good enough to be with her dad and not good enough to be her mom, either. The two teen girls had a big fight over this, which made for some interesting scenes.

Later, Candace's D. C. boss, Gavin (played by Ash Lee) began to really put the pressure on Candace to get Derek to commit to even greater political commitments if first their D. C. company can get him elected mayor. After that, Candace felt obligated to pressure Derek in turn, and Derek felt like he needed to fight back because he had no desire to be more than a mayor. That created tension between them, and Candace especially was unhappy about that.

Later, Derek and sister Stacy were chatting on the porch one evening about how well-suited Stacy thought Candace is (and was--in high school) for him. Derek agrees, but it is her political pressure that has him annoyed--though he is keeping that to himself. During this conversation, daughter Naomi came around the side porch and accidentally overheard her dad and aunt talking. She stopped and listened, and realized she had been wrong about her dad and Candace, and instantly regretted the fight with Alex.

From there we get to the final scenes, which I won't spoil. Will Candace work things out regarding her D. C. job? Will she and Derek's daughter make peace? Will she and Derek get together, and how will they work out being 2/3rds of the country apart?

This was one of the FINEST romantic movies I have ever seen. It wasn't a comedy, it was more of a drama, but it was NOT one of those heavy-handed, annoying dramas that make you want to roll your eyes and change channels. This movie did not depend on tired old tropes that most of us romance movie fans are, frankly, tired of. Sure, going home and meeting an old boyfriend has been done, but that is about the ONLY thing we've seen done before--and the method was sure different. The teenage girls and their relationship was a great aspect of the film because it was important to the girls, but also important to the adults---dad and aunt. And the final scene? Both different and wonderful.

I really cannot recommend this movie more--I'd call it a must-see if you enjoy romance films.

Bunk'd (2015–2024)

A Great Show For Three Seasons

[6/10 · 23 April 2024]

BUNK'D Seasons 1-3 Rating 9 Seasons 4-6 Rating 3

Bunk'd is a spin-off of a previous Disney TV series called "Jessie." "Jessie" was about a nanny (wannabee actress) who oversaw the four children of the wealthy Ross family in NYC, but ultimately was chosen for a job in Hollywood. Three of the "children," Emma (Peyton Roi List), Ravi (Karan Brar), and Zuri (Skai Jackson) moved on to "Bunk'd," a story about a summer camp in Maine where their parents had met years before. The fourth brother, Luke (Cameron Boyce) stayed in NYC over the summers to attend summer school. (In real life, Boyce passed away in 2019 from complications due to epilepsy). Boyce did make a couple guest appearances on Bunk'd before his passing.

If you've read the many reviews here, you'll read things like how stereotypical and racist Bunk'd was. People who complain about that are usually looking for something that isn't there. They WANT to find these things. These critics bad-mouthed nearly every character in this TV series, and made every character sound as bad as they possibly could. If you are familiar with Disney, you know that this would not be something of which they would be guilty.

One silly complaint concerned Karan Brar. "Ravi" in the show was an orphan from India, and Brar is an Indian-American in real life with family from India. I think the haters who criticized him are simply wrong when criticizing his accent.

I read many other hateful comments in the reviews as well. If you can find something bad to say about someone or something, putting it into your review seems to be the reason SO many people here write reviews. Why?

Moving on, my family found Bunk'd quite entertaining in Seasons 1-2. I would suggest that the character group was best at that time. We still watch those reruns on Netflix. Were those episodes perfect? Of course not. Somewhat true to form, Disney did engage in their "burp & fart" brand of humor, which not all parents and grandparents find entertaining or appropriate. It depends on the ages of any kids you have watching. One or two reviewers complained about overt sexuality on the show between Emma and her camp boyfriend Xander (Kevin Quinn), and a third party, Head Counselor Hazel (Tessa Netting). This was also simply untrue. There was simply nothing at all inappropriate for teens or even tweens, the target audience. There is even an episode where there is an aborted crush Tiffany (Nina Lu) and Ravi supposedly ages 11 and 15. This is handled very nicely, realistically, and cleanly as well.

Season 3 had a minor disappointment, as Emma's boyfriend Xander disappears without explanation, as do a couple of mainstay campers--Tiffany (Nina Lu) and Jorge (Nathan Arrias). Another reviewer mentioned that it is common in real life for campers to come and go at summer camps, and that's true. However, Disney NEVER explains what happened, at least to Xander, as we had been led to believe that Emma and Xander were a serious couple. A sentence or two from Emma by way of explanation would have been appreciated.

In Season 3, in a bit of a convoluted carryover from Season 2, the Ross kids become owners of the camp. The camp had experienced a small fire at the end of Season 2, and the owner had taken the insurance and skipped town. Being the children of rich parents, the Ross kids had their mom buy the camp. In a bit of a hard to believe episode (but it's Disney), the campers themselves rebuilt the two burned down cabins better than ever (and no other campers stuck with older cabins apparently complained?) and a new series of storylines presented themselves.

This was 2018, and although playing younger, List was actually 20 years old at the time. At season's end, I suspect List was tired of Disney--vice versa is possible--but in my opinion, List did a fine job for them for six years. So at season's end, all three of the "Ross kids" moved on to other things and said goodbye to the camp. At least it was explained this time.

I saw some of Season 4, but I strongly believe that with Emma, Ravi, and Zuri gone, "Bunk'd" was on its last legs. I didn't enjoy Season 4--I just didn't. "Emma" came back for one episode in Season 5, but that script was not well written in my opinion. I enjoyed seeing her, but the show was past its prime by then.

Frankly, I stopped watching "Bunk'd" once the Ross kids were written out. Especially as multiple characters came and went, the show just got tedious. I couldn't believe it when the entire show was moved from the camp in Maine and relocated to a ranch out west. (What?!) I would vote along with those who suggest that after three years, a once great show was ready to call it a day. Actors grow up and move on. Perhaps a new target audience grows into the viewership role, but as one who saw all three years of Jessie and three years of Bunk'd, but then caught a smattering of later seasons of Bunk'd, I truly believe the series went down the drain. More's the pity.

If at all intrigued, do check out Seasons 1 through 3.

Puppy Love (II) (2023)

It's Not a Typical Rom-Com--But it's A GOOD Rom-Com Nevertheless

[9/10 · 12 April 2024]

I'm going to say some nice things about this film, but I have to start with a warning. Several reviews called this a "family film," or "great for the whole family." Assuming that means kids, that's a big NO. Unless you swear like a drunken sailor on shore leave in front of your children, watch this with adults only. It's full of that sort of language.

Okay. Lucy Hale and Grant Gustin in the lead roles were unbelievably great in their roles, playing completely opposite personalities that are placed together due to their love for their dogs--because they felt it was the right thing to do. The way the script was written, the two do not always get along even smoothly--often it is simply a tolerable relationship for them, but they seem to do their best, which is apparently difficult due to their wildly differing personalities and lifestyles, not to mention friends and colleagues who offered what was often questionable advice (and added a fair amount of silliness to the film).

Nore Davis as Gustin's boss was a colleague Gustin hung out with but perhaps shouldn't have, due to the advice Davis offered him. Davis played his role well, but it was written to make him a bit clownish. Speaking of clownish, the veterinarian the lead characters saw for their dog's care was played by Michael Hitchcock. If I had a vet like him I'd probably find a new one. He played the role as if he was competent--but beyond goofy. Al Miro played a rich guy that Lucy Hale did some staging work for, and he ended up putting the move on her, which she went along with. I might add, with disastrous results. As all this was later in the film I won't go into the details.

Throughout all the happenings in the film, the two dogs (one belonging to each of the lead characters, tended to make them appear as a family of four--though the leads would deny this), were truly important characters in the film. They did specific things, and they came and went, and they caused Hale and Gustin to have to react to them. I was rather in awe of how well-trained these two canines truly were. In most "dog movies," the dogs simply walk around a bit, apparently on command, or bark, also on command, and are always looking off camera at the trainer. I did not notice this at all with these two dogs. They truly seemed to be simply two additional actors that were furry, walked on four legs, and didn't happen to talk--but were actors nevertheless. This was important throughout the film.

"Puppy Love" was indeed a rom-com, but if anyone is expecting it to be anything like a Hallmark release, please don't. While it is still a movie, and not real life--you still need to suspend disbelief and watch the movie as make believe--like ALL movies, it's still not the complete fairy tale we often see from the "strictly romance titles" some networks churn out. I'm NOT criticizing them--NOR am I criticizing "Puppy Love," I'm just noting the differences. Regardless, I truly enjoyed this movie. If you like the rom-com genre, I think you will too. (I gave it a 9. I'd give it a 10 if not for all the gratuitous swearing.)

For Love & Honor (2016 TV Movie)

Not Accurate Militarily, But a Great Romance

[8/10 · 8 April 2024]

"For Love and Honor" (2016) Prime Video/Hallmark

I loved this movie but this comes with a warning that you need to suspend disbelief completely to enjoy it completely if you have any military background. After the short opening where the retired bird Colonel (James Denton) is assigned to revive the military standards of a declining military academy, we are shown a campus where cadets run around wearing uniforms with the sloppiness of 1960s/70s hippies--no exaggeration--I was there and know of what I speak. But while I don't believe anything in the world would have allowed a military academy to sink to that level, it's all in the suspension of disbelief, as I said. It's a Hallmark romance, not anything remotely realistic, you'll just have to remember that. The fact that the military was being run by an academic/civilian and not a military commandant was another thing you'll have to accept--that's also not done. Deep breath.

There were some reviews saying that Denton, as the retired Colonel assigned to the school, was gruff and unpleasant early on. Frankly, Natalie Brown, as the Dean of Education, was equally gruff and unpleasant. Having the leads treat each other badly is a Hallmark trope, you know it won't last.

Rebecca Liddiard plays Denton's daughter, as a local college student. She acts as a go-between for Denton and Brown. I'm not sure if she was needed, but her role was well-played, and quite enjoyable. You may know her from her grown-up roles in Frankie Drake Mysteries or the romance movie "From Chicago with Love."

Ron Lea plays a retired Major General and former boss of Denton's. He sits on the board and hires Denton for the academy. He opens conversation by greeting Denton with "Oo-rah," which is then used loosely the rest of the film. I'm sure this irritated any Marines in the audience as the word is a Marine Corps battle cry NOT used by the Army, but again--Hallmark love story, not a military documentary. If you can get past that you can probably also get past the sloppy saluting you'll see. Deep breath.

Denton and Brown ARE the story here. Besides Lilliard, the only other significant character is a young student played by Sheppard Denton (real life son of James) that Denton successfully mentors.

I'm going to leave out the ending here--I've already likely spoiled the film too much for some of you. Decide for yourself how likely the ending really is. I did enjoy the movie, once, as I said, I forced myself to suspend disbelief--for a former military guy, that wasn't easy. But it's HALLMARK! NOT REAL LIFE! ;D

The rest of you should LOVE this.

Write Before Christmas (2019 TV Movie)

Some Great Actors Combine to Give Us a Fine Holiday Movie

[9/10 · 8 April 2024]

"Write Before Christmas" (2019) Hallmark

This movie has already been reviewed many times, but I want to discuss the actors a bit. I'm a serious fan of Torrey DeVitto, at least in her romance films--I haven't seen her in other things. Same applies to Chad Michael Murry. I think he comes off low-key, not trying to prove anything, which I appreciate. As the leads in this movie, these two were great together, with a good amount of chemistry. I do agree with other reviewers who complained about the two scenes where each one made had a misunderstanding based on incorrect assumptions regarding the other--but if Hallmark didn't write such tropes into almost every movie they make, I'm sure someone at Hallmark Corporate's head would explode.

It's a bit unfortunate, because Hallmark regular Paula Giroday was stuck providing the female distraction with Murray that threw DeVitto off her game. Giroday is both beautiful and a good actress, and I keep hoping she'll star in a romance soon. While she's been in several romance films, it's always as a co-star.

Kimberly Shoniker played DeVitto's best friend, and was the one who nagged her--there is always one person in the star's life (usually the female's but sometimes the male's life) who is pushy about dating, career, etc. The job in this script went to Shoniker. Of course the star never resents them for it, and it was the same here.

I haven't seen mention of Madison Smith (playing DeVitto's brother) or Laney McAuley by name. They were the two soldiers away from home at Christmastime. McAuley especially was perfect as the girl away from home at Christmas for the first time with only a mother at home, a mother who had disapproved of her joining the Army. Her loneliness was discernible, while at the same time she was the professional soldier she needed to be. As former military I did blink hard when she and Smith exchanged a kiss in public on the base, as that just is not done, but the scene seemed so spontaneous, and was followed by sheepish looks by both as they looked around, apparently hoping no one had noticed, that I accepted it--reminding myself that this was a Hallmark movie, not a military documentary. ;)

I'll just add that if you enjoyed the lovely Laney, check out her page on IMDB, as she has starred in some other romance films.

There were a few other interesting characters, some major and some minor, in this movie. All did a fine job, and contributed to what I consider a really good, entertaining film. Yes, there were a couple tropes I could have done without, and likely you will agree, but all said and done, this is a very good holiday movie.

The Jinglebell Jubilee (2023)

A Thoroughly Enjoyable Christmas Romance

[8/10 · 7 April 2024]

"The Jinglebell Jubilee" (2023) GFAM

Erin Agostino and Marshall Williams star in this Christmas movie. Both have done several romance movies so you may have seen them before. I really like Agostino. I think she is very good, and it doesn't hurt that she is lovely. Williams is a good as well. I admit it took seeing a couple of his movies for him to grow on me, but he is actually a pretty good actor.

The story here is a new one, and the twists and turns make for a pleasant watching experience. There are basically four friends--the stars, plus Kristian Jordan and Samantha Kendrick, all playing ring around the romance, and we are not sure how things will fall out until late in the film...but that's what makes it interesting.

I really had no problems with this movie. I thought it was entertaining and enjoyable. Give it a look, you'll probably like it, too.

Betty's Bad Luck in Love (2024 TV Movie)

A Really Entertaining Movie

[9/10 · 7 April 2024]

"Betty's Bad Luck in Love" (2024) Hallmark

I had not seen Laci J Mailey in a movie before this one, I'd only seen her in "Chesapeake Shores." I'm a fan of hers from that, and I really liked her here too. I had seen Marco Grazzini in "Right in Front of Me," where he costarred with Janel Parrish. I really liked that movie, and he didn't disappoint in this film either.

I read other reviews where people psychoanalyzed Mailey's character and tried to compare a Hallmark fantasy romance with real life. I don't do that. I tend to watch movies, especially romance movies, for entertainment. I found "Betty's..." to be a lot of fun. The curse thing just added to the fun. Whoever thought of that and wrote it into the script came up with a new twist for a Hallmark story. There were a lot of fun and admittedly goofy--but entertaining--scenes in this movie.

I'm not going to spoil the story, so I'll just say that if you are looking for a fun romance that will take your mind off real life--if you let it--here is another one from Hallmark that should do the trick.

Dream Wedding (2023)

Rebecca Dalton & Jesse Hutch Make This Movie Work

[6/10 · 7 April 2024]

"Dream Wedding" 2023 GFAM

No movie is as bad as many of the reviews here made this out to be, It was not a truly great movie, but it certainly did not deserve the cornucopia of insulting adjectives thrown at the writers, directors, cast, and final product as was done here.

What we have here is a different type of story, and perhaps that threw off those who were expecting the typical rom-com with tried and true tropes. "Dream Wedding" wasn't one of those movies. Instead it was an attempt to put Rebecca Dalton and Jesse Hutch together despite many obstacles placed there by other people and circumstances. The movie was about two sisters who enter and win a wedding contest--wedding related prizes, a fancy honeymoon, etc. But one must be engaged to enter, of course. Reviewers criticized Dalton's character, Kate, for "lying" about her engagement status--she was not. But Kate was obviously browbeaten by her sister Megan, played by Crista Taylor Brown, who was engaged, and who also clearly had a duplicitous streak, and who knew she could manipulate her sister to give her the prizes. So manipulate she did. So who was the bad guy?

Jesse Hutch, playing a photographer, gets involved in the "scam." At first we're not sure if he's just being helpful to the sisters by offering to take wedding photos, or is interested in Dalton, but one suspects the latter. As Megan insisted that Kate get a fake fiance--Hutch helps arrange it. Both Dalton and Hutch's characters are low key, and so much happens around them that they are not really controlling things in this story. There is a tendency for the viewer, at least there was for me, to feel sorry for them. Dalton's sister Megan, Dalton's fake fiance played by Geoff Shangh (a real goofball I thought), and a random woman (not sure which actress played her) from the wedding contest the sisters won (actually Kate won) who was trying to beat the prizes out of the sisters. Even the parents of the sisters, who were not in on Megan's scam, put enormous pressure on Kate. And the fact that Megan was in fact getting married soon and wanted all the prizes which, again, were actually won by Kate...well, Kate just could not say no to her sister.

I won't get into the end game, here. I enjoyed it. I thought Dalton and Hutch were well cast to end up together. There wasn't a long slow build-up as in many rom-coms--to which I attribute all the pressure Dalton was under--but as in all romance films, all's well that ends well.

A Vineyard Romance (2021 TV Movie)

All in All an Enjoyable Romance Movie

[8/10 · 7 April 2024]

"A Vineyard Romance" (2021) Streaming on Prime Video/Up Faith & Family

This nice little romance stars Rebecca Olson and Marcus Rosner. Rosner is well known to romance movie fans. Olson probably less so. She's been in some, but usually as a co-star. I'll start with her. She really aced her role here. She was fresh and interesting. She and Rosner play exes who each believe the other ghosted them years ago and thus gave up on what was up until then a very close relationship. As a magazine writer, Olson is sent to her hometown to cover the wedding of a famous "influencer." (I'm old enough to still wonder why that is even a real job.) She is shocked to find that Rosner is the groom. The wedding is to take place at his family's vineyard. Rosner does a good job here as well, although at first he's quite unpleasant to Olson, and she's not Miss Sunshine to him, either. That gets explained later in the film--we don't know he thinks she ghosted him as well. In the meantime, we're supposed to sympathize with her, but not with him.

Lovely redhead Leanne Lapp, who usually plays a friend of the star, as someone else said--though she had the lead in the cute film "Mixed Baggage," which I recommend, here played Rosner's bride-to-be. Lapp did, as someone else correctly said, go completely out of character in playing the influencer. I suspect the solipsistic behavior of Lapp's character was probably right for an influencer with five hundred billion followers. ;) Suffice to say, Leanne did a great job with what she was given--and yes, it was no way my favorite role for her, but I know she can play anything. Early on she was temporarily written out ("going back to New York, they tore the lace on my wedding dress!"), allowing Rosner and Olson to spend a LOT of time together.

My only complaint about Lapp--and Rosner too, was that when they decided to call off the wedding toward the film's end, they were very laissez-faire about it. They didn't even hug. You know, nice knowin' you? Lapp was so over-the-top about EVERYTHING ELSE up until then, but she could take a break-up so casually? Ending the wedding??!!

Initially getting Olson and Rosner's characters back in the same place was under the guise of Olson's article, but the transition from "I really hate you Well I really hate you" to getting along well and displaying obvious chemistry of two people who were, and perhaps are, more than friends, happened so fast I almost missed the transition. Still, it was nice to see. I have to say, both actors pulled this off very well indeed.

There was a subplot involving Rosner's brother, played by Matt Hamilton, and Olson's best friend, played by Lisa MacFadden. They were soooo infatuated with each other. There must have been a half dozen scenes making that perfectly clear. This subplot would have been more enjoyable had it not been written and played like they were a couple of shy and embarrassed middle school kids instead of thirty-something adults.

The only other character that I must comment on was Olson's editor back in the city, played by Lucie Guest. First you must also know that Guest directed this movie, and CO-WROTE THE SCRIPT, so she should have had some influence on the way she played her character, which simply put, was classic mean girl grown up. Guest is a great actress--but her character's behavior was awful for a boss in this day and age. Rude, unyielding, talked out of both sides of her mouth, especially at the end of the film. Not funny either, in case that was her intent. Please keep in mind that I am usually very willing to set aside my disbelief--it's a movie, a fantasy, but the fact that Guest was playing the role of "boss" in the movie AND directing the movie AND co-writer of the script was a bit too much for even me. How could she not see how "off" this character was? Okay, its true bosses are often mean in romance movies, but Guest overplayed mean. Fortunately, it was a very small role.

I'm done. Despite the last paragraph, I truly enjoyed this movie. Olson and Rosner had a lot of chemistry together. Oh, the ending of the movie was something else. Not quite the usual rom-com ending. You'll have to see for yourself.

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas (2019 TV Movie)

A Warm and Entertaining Movie

[7/10 · 6 April 2024]

It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas (2019) Hallmark/Prime Video

I've seen this movie perhaps three times and I have enjoyed it every time. It stars Tricia Helfer, whom I love, and Eric Mabius, who I like a lot, although I was not quite as fond of him in this film as some other roles. The two stars play mayors of adjacent towns who compete in every way. At present, they are competing in a Christmas contest. As two people who grew up together and have always competed, competition has become a way of life for the two, and it will take this Hallmark movie to help them realize that there is more to life. ;)

Co-stars here, playing the mayor's assistants, are the lovely Aliza Vellani for Mabius and Raf Rogers for Helfer. I haven't seen it noted in other reviews, but Vellani and Rogers' characters are clearly good friends...and perhaps more? Wondering and watching adds to enjoyment of this story. Nolan Hupp plays Helfer's son and does a fine job. Peter Benson, a Hallmark regular, plays Helfer's amicable ex-husband, Hupp's dad, and a good friend of Mabius. Despite the two mayor's competition in everything, everyone here gets along, which works out for the story.

The other important characters here are, first, another Hallmark regular, Viv Leacock, playing the owner of a local company that sponsors the aforementioned Christmas contest. By the way, unlike some other's comments, it isn't a Christmas decorating contest, it is more a "Christmas spirit" contest, and this will prove important toward story's end. Finally, April Telek, yet another Hallmark regular, plays a cafe/coffee shop owner. Her business sits right on the dividing line between Mabius and Helfer's towns, so she is visited by both regularly, and finds herself counseling both on occasion.

I won't go into any more detail about the story, I don't like overly spoiling things. I just want to say that this is something of a unique story, well told and, as reported at the outset, I found it quite enjoyable. It's a Hallmark Christmas movie, so as always, park your disbelief at the door, sit back, and enjoy a warm and entertaining movie.

The Most Colorful Time of the Year (2022 TV Movie)

It's a Christmas Romance--Watch it as such and Enjoy It

[9/10 · 6 April 2024]

"The Most Colorful Time of the Year" (2022)

This is a Hallmark Christmas romance movie. I watched it with that premise in mind. I don't try to take these types of movies and pretend they are real life, because they will never pass muster. They are fantasies, and if we give them a moment's thought, we'll realize that their purpose is not to tell real stories. If you approach this movie the same way, I.e., you suspend disbelief, sit back, and enjoy watching a love story for an hour or two--in this case a holiday-related love story--I think you might well enjoy it.

The two leads are Katrina Bowden and Christopher Russell. Both do an excellent job. I have no criticism for either actor--I've enjoyed them in every similar movie I've seen them in. They play the roles they were given very well. Joanna Douglas plays Bowden's sister, and does a great job. Ava Weiss plays Bowden's young daughter and is another pleasant surprise. Two characters who "run interference" for a budding relationship between Bowden and Russell are played by Holly Jade Balmer, who is interested in Russell's character, and R. Austin Ball, who plays the ex-boyfriend of Bowden's character. The ex-boyfriend is actually a jerk (even the daughter knows it), yet Bowden's character allows him to get away with it--up to the point when he goes too far, and she finally tells him off. Celine Bauwmans, as Bowden's secretary, was good in this as well, as was Bert Cardozo as Russell's buddy. Melinda Michael played a disastrous blind date for Russell that his buddy set him up on--she was very good there. I've seen her in other roles, and she had to work hard to be as ridiculous as she came off on the "date." She's actually a bright and intelligent actress. Those are the main characters in this movie.

Now then, while other reviews discussed the science in the story, or the ethics of Bowden's doctor character, I think if you accept this as a Hallmark romance, you can look past any such concerns. If you do, you can enjoy the film as a very warm and happy Christmas movie. Give it a try.

Nature of Love (2020 TV Movie)

Definitely Worth a Look

[6/10 · 5 April 2024]

"Nature of Love" (2020) (Prime Video/Hallmark)

Emilie Ullerup and Christopher Russell are the leads in this movie about "glamping," which was filmed among beautiful scenery that I found jaw-dropping. I thought both actors did a fine job, and had discernible chemistry. Ullerup's character, a reporter, obviously found Russell's character, a staff member, attractive and interesting, and it was obvious not only to Ullerup but to her "camp neighbor," played by Donna Benedicto, that as the week progressed, Russell's character found Ullerup interesting as well. (By the way, Benedicto did not have a large role, but she was good in her role. If you agree after watching the film, look her up--she has had the lead in other romance films. "Farmer Seeking Love" from 2022 comes to mind--she was so good in that one.)

Others mentioned the similarity between "Nature of Love" and 2018's "Love on the Slopes." Yes, they are very similar, except for the wrap-up (watch them both to see the difference), and for the fact that the leading lady here (Ullerup) has no pre-existing boyfriend. That lack was fine with me, because as per Hallmark standards, the pre-existing boyfriend is always a dufus and always gets dumped in those films, so why bother writing one into the script? In both cases the writer's boss (in this film Hallmark regular Catherine Lough Haggquist) is the one trying to get a personal-type magazine article out of reporter Ullerup--against her will. Things do work out differently in each film--again, watch the other movie if you really want to compare them. But enough about that other movie.

Regarding this film, there are some interesting twists--or would-be twists. The lovely Erin Boyes plays the camp owner, and it seems as if she has a thing for Russell, too. We are frequently treated to her unhappy looks at Russell and Ullerup when those two are together. It's interesting, as it seems the scriptwriters missed a beat there. Eric Gustafsson, who plays another camp staffer, is shown several times looking longingly at Boyes, which would seem to have opened up an opportunity for a great subplot, but the movie never exploits that one. More's the pity!

I had none of the problems with the film that that other reviewers mentioned regarding placement of flowers or supposedly green-screened animals. Nothing looked fake to me, but then I go into romance films from the likes of Hallmark expecting to see a...romance film--not a nature documentary or anything else. I suspend disbelief, and pay attention to the characters. If the story is good and the actors pull it off, I'm usually happy. In this case, all of the aforementioned actors did their job, and, yes, I was happy. It wasn't the most original romance movie I've seen, but it is well worth a look.

Her Pen Pal (2021 TV Movie)

Mallory Jansen Makes This Movie work

[6/10 · 4 April 2024]

"Her Pen Pal" (2021)

I am always surprised by reviews that barely touch on the actual film, but go off on tangents having very little to do with the movie at hand. Perhaps others find that helpful? When I'm considering a film to watch I want to read about the movie, not peripheral, unhelpful (to me) things. As this is a romance movie, I go in suspending disbelief, meaning I am not judging a character's accent unless it's actual egregious. I don't really notice fashions or hairstyles, which is something I think is more common with female reviewers--and maybe important to female readers--but since I don't notice these things unless, again, they are truly egregious, they don't appear in my reviews. And frankly, I don't think they are truly important. I also don't question locations that may not jibe with my understanding of a real-life location. I don't find this relevant to my viewing enjoyment, either.

Instead I first consider the quality of the film. In this case, "Her Pen Pal" was well done in that regard. I personally am no fan of Paris, but I know many viewers are. The locations here seemed varied, and likely interesting to those who enjoy films set in that city. (If you like rom-coms set in Paris, I think "Love Locks" did a better job in that regard than this film. My opinion.)

The story here was pretty standard fare for a Hallmark movie. I won't spoil it for you--anymore, at least--if you've read other reviews you've already read a lot of spoilers anyway. Suffice to say there is little original here and many standard tropes found their way into the script. That doesn't mean the film wasn't interesting or entertaining--it was.

But the movie really stands or falls on the characters--the actors and the job they did. Starting with the leads, Mallory Jansen, an Australian playing an American, was quite good in my opinion. Joshua Sasse, a Brit playing a Frenchman, was okay as well. I have a bit of prejudice when it comes to Frenchmen, who I think sometimes come off as haughty. Think Charles Boyer, for example. At any rate, Sasse's character fit this "Frenchman" niche quite well.

Others have commented on some less than excellent performances--but perhaps good performances of poorly written characters might be more accurate. Jayne Wisener played a somewhat indecisive and troubled bride--I can't criticize the actress, as I said, I'm sure the script writers, and/or the director, made her so annoying.

Lachlan Nieboer play Jansen's ex-boyfriend, and had being a jerk down to a science. Again, these things come from the script or from the director. The groom, played by (I think) Gregory Haney, was a non-entity here, and did not seem well-matched to bride Wisener. That was poor casting. Amanda Blake played girlfriend to aforementioned ex-boyfriend Nieboer. Her character probably deserved much better based on how the story evolved. But all in all, the cast was fine (excepting Haney). While not everyone was likable, it likely was not the actors.

While this is not a film one will probably want to return to over and over again, I've watched it twice, primarily because I'm a fan of Mallory Jansen. I've liked other romance movies she's done better, but anything she's in, I'll watch. But even if you're not a fan, this movie is worth a single watch at least.

Sun, Sand & Romance (2017 TV Movie)

A Very Enjoyable Romance Movie

[9/10 · 3 April 2024]

Sun, Sand & Romance (2017) Hallmark/Prime Video

It seems that most reviewers either disliked Tricia Helfer or disliked Paul Campbell as the leads in this film. I happen to like both actors and thought they were well suited to their roles playing two old friends who meet up again after 20 years. I've seen both of them in several other romance films, and I can't think of any offhand that I didn't like. In my opinion, the two stars worked very well together. I thought they had definite chemistry, and were a much better match than Helfer and her current boyfriend, played by Scott Elrod. He had nothing to offer and was oblivious to his girlfriend's desires during their entire joint vacation.

A couple other actors stood out in this film. Sadie Robertson, playing part of the resort staff, was one. She was enthusiastic, energetic, and fun.

Another was Tim Russ playing a land developer that took boyfriend Elrod away from Helfer for days and allowed her to spend time with Campbell. Russ was extremely believable in that role. Otherwise, why would a guy go on vacation with his girlfriend only to leave her alone for so much time?

As others mentioned, the scenery in the film was spectacular. I also found no faults with the technical aspects. The story was sweet, and the ending was touching. Give this one a try.

The Secret Gift of Christmas (2023 TV Movie)

A Very Enjoyable Christmas Movie

[9/10 · 3 April 2024]

"The Secret Gift of Christmas" (2023)

Some reviewers compared this film to "A Gift-Wrapped Christmas" (2015), calling that one "the original." Well, there are not really many "original" romance stories, as any fan of this genre knows. In this case, Hallmark also released "The 12 Gifts of Christmas," another personal shopper film in 2015--so there you go. Rather than compare a new film to one's old favorite(s), I'd rather simply review the film at hand.

"The Secret Gifts of Christmas" stars the beautiful Meghan Ory with another well-known rom-com veteran, Christopher Russell. Both actors did a very good job in their respective roles. Ory plays a vivacious personal Christmas shopper hired by a construction boss (and single father) with no time to shop for his clients and employees at Christmas. I'm not going to reveal the film's entire story here. Suffice it to say that both Ory and Russell do a fine job in their respective roles. Some reviewers criticized Ory for her bright Christmasy wardrobe, but that simply struck me as appropriate for her role--and to match her character's enthusiastic personality.

The supporting cast here was quite good as well. Aria Publicover plays Ory's sister. They are very believable as sisters. In the only negative scene, which I classed as Hallmark relying on a bit of a tired trope, Publicover sets up her sister with an at-home date under the pretense of the fellow being a new shopping client, only to admit once it was too late to get out of it that the man sitting in their kitchen was a "date" for Ory's character. Of course he turns out to be a real dipsqueek. On the other hand, Publicover later helps Ory deal with some issues Ory has with their father, so the sisterly relationship works both ways. No one is perfect in every way, eh?

Another stand-out actor was Ellie Cluett, who plays Russell's young daughter--she and Ory develop a touching bond. And If there is a "bad guy" in the film it's played by Jenn Grant, who is the music teacher for Russell's daughter. Again, I'll leave you to see how that all plays out. I'll just say that the late-in-the-film "misunderstanding" between Ory and Russell, seemingly mandatory in all romance movies--especially from Hallmark--was somewhat poorly done in this one. As good as the rest of the film was, this surely could have been handled much better. But perhaps the filmmakers thought they were being subtle?

All in all however, the story here was quite good. The various characters all listened to one another, and listening is, of course, required for stories to work out as they should. The other aspects of the movie, scenery, etc., were nothing to complain about. I think if you watch this one, you might well enjoy it!

A Very Merry Toy Store (2017 TV Movie)

Pretty Good, but Too Many Sub-Plots

[6/10 · 31 March 2024]

A Very Merry Toy Store (2017) Available on Prime Video (Freevee)

Here I am again reviewing a movie several years after its release, but I try to be thorough, and often don't see that in other reviews. The cast drew me to this one. I was curious to see a rom-com where the leads are not the usual 20-somethings or young 30-somethings. It was nice to see a 40-year-old Melissa Joan Hart and 43-year-old Mario Lopez (ages at that time) as the stars. That said, I didn't see or feel a great deal of chemistry between the lead actors--and I almost never complain about chemistry--I am usually one to that is open to the subtle signs. I'm not saying these two were bad together, I just don't think they are likely to have viewers on the edge of their seats, hoping they get together at the end--which is part and parcel of romance movies. (But hey, Lifetime is not as good at this as a few other romance movie networks).

The storyline here was interesting, and it was different from many rom-coms. The acting from everyone was more than adequate. I DON'T have the complaints many reviewers did concerning "fake snow," "cheap sets," etc. With rom-coms, I'm always willing to suspend disbelief and not waste my time analyzing peripherals that don't mean anything.

I do have one complaint about the movie--there were simply too many subplots, and there really wasn't enough time to develop them all. It's as if the script only touched the surface of many different stories within the film. Mostly, the subplots were resolved, but poorly, with a disturbing lack of details. We the viewers are left to imagine how the resolution took place, what happened to the people involved? I blame all of this on simply trying to cram too many little stories into an 87 minute movie--there just wasn't time. The result? Too much happened that simply was not satisfactorily explained.

This is not a bad movie. It's an okay movie that entertains, but those MANY subplots dragged the film down to a six for me. With perhaps 2.5 hours to work with and an expanded script, the film might have really shined.

Advance & Retreat (2016 TV Movie)

A Different, Clever, and Enjoyable Film

[10/10 · 24 March 2024]

Advance & Retreat (2016) Prime Video. I'm reviewing this older film because I thought it could use a more complete review. I've now watched it three times.

It is about a woman (Riley Voelkel) who is currently in a relationship, but meets an old flame, which is nothing new in romance films. But this one differs in that it starts by introducing us to the woman (Voelkel) and her then-current boyfriend (Casey Diedrick) back when they were camp counselors at a youth summer camp, and probably about 18 years old, clearly in a relationship. A misunderstanding caused by another jealous female counselor was witnessed by Voelkel just before Voelkel leaves camp at summer's end. Voelkel is obviously devastated, as teens can be.

We don't see these two until a decade later, starting with Voelkel. She is now a successful junior executive at a marketing firm in the big city. She is now dating another member of the same firm (Brandon Jones), and Diedrick is a distant memory.

What makes this film FAR more interesting than most "meeting old boyfriend" movies is the plethora of other interesting--and important--characters. Everything starts when the marketing firm's boss (C. Thomas Howell), who is a mentor to Voelkel, decides their annual corporate retreat this year will not be at the usual cushy, fancy hotel. Instead, he's found a camp out in the country that does corporate retreats. Voelkel's boyfriend (Jones) complains about this quite a bit. He's the one at the company who recruits other companies to use the firm for marketing and "doesn't need team building," and he can't get anything done out in the woods, which he hates--and says so. This will start to annoy Voelkel. Her team leader (Whitney Anderson), is trouble from the beginning, and whines throughout the film--at least when she's not actively plotting to undermine Voelkel. She wants the fancy hotel, and she really does try to sabotage Voelkel at every turn. Voelkel's best friend at the firm (Bianca Lopez) is pregnant, and can't go on the retreat. They have the phone, but it isn't the same of course. Tiffany Boone and Mark Charran are Voelkel's team members, and they are both talented--and good souls, but they are discovering a romantic relationship with each other, and so are less aware of the bad actors here--boyfriend Jones and team leader Anderson. To be fair, we see that the team leader is truly evil from the get-go. The boyfriend is simply insanely jealous--because...

....although the camp now has a different name and a different business model--corporate retreats instead of a kid's summer camp--it's still the same camp where Voelkel was a counselor, and yes, Diedrick still works there. In fact, he owns the camp now. Initially, Voelkel is cold toward Diedrick, but he gets a chance to explain the misunderstanding of ten years prior. Over the week they are there, they renew their friendship--note, it's a simple, non-romantic friendship--but city boyfriend Jones sees red anyway, and cannot abide Voelkel even talking to Diedrick. When was the last time you saw a current boyfriend throw an undeserved punch at a former boyfriend in a romance movie?? Yeah, this one should keep you interested.

I think you've got the gist of the characters now. (By the way, there is one more great character--Dirk Blocker plays Diedrick's other staff member at the camp--his name is "Dan." Those of us old enough might remember Dirk's late father, another famous actor, Dan Blocker. I just wondered if that was intentional on the part of the filmmakers) Anyway, the way the plot works is very interesting, especially the ending.

By the way, during the film, don't get hung up on how certain activities are "team building" or not. Some activities were meant to challenge individuals on their own, some were meant to induce trust, and so forth. Regardless, if you spend your time analyzing how realistic a film is (and a lot of reviewers do this no matter the topic), you'll miss the movie. Keep in mind that romance movie scriptwriters cannot be experts in every field, and you may know more about something than they do. But leave your disbelief at the door. Sit back and enjoy the film. It's a romance film, not a historical drama.

I said at the beginning that I have watched the movie three times...that's because I really enjoyed it.