| Table of Reviews |
|---|
A Kidnapping in Amish Country – Review
A Kidnapping in Amish Country – Lifetime – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Lena runs to the home of her ex-boyfriend, Aaron, with a suitcase. She worries he won’t accept her because she turned her back on the Amish lifestyle, but Aaron doesn’t have a beard. They kiss, and Aaron asks Lena to marry him. After a passionate night, Lena hears a sound coming from her suitcase downstairs. She opens the luggage, containing $500,000 and a burner phone. The phone has several threatening messages. Lena snaps the phone in half and returns to Aaron’s bed.
Five years later, Lena and Aaron have a daughter, Miriam. And they returned to the Amish community. Aaron worries Lena is raising Miriam to be too prideful, but Lena isn’t concerned. She dreams of Miriam becoming a midwife, teacher, or bookkeeper. Aaron believes it doesn’t matter because it will be for Miriam’s future husband to decide. Later, Aaron and Lena try for a baby, but she does something in bed that makes Aaron uneasy. He tells her to pray and leaves the bedroom. Lena has a nightmare about a man lying dead on the floor and wakes up in a panic. She finds Aaron reading the bible. He asks if she has secrets, and Lena says no.
Aaron and Lena ride home after visiting their friend, Ruth. They find a man lying in the road and stop to help. The man attacks while another man kidnaps Miriam. Lena wakes up, surrounded by paramedics. She discovers a message written on her arm, hides it from the medical staff, and finds Aaron. They refuse further medical treatment and return home. Lena shows Aaron the message. It warns them to keep quiet about Miriam’s kidnapping, or they will kill her. They look over Lena’s body and unearth another message. The message demands $500,000 with a meeting time and place. Lena runs to the backyard with a shovel and digs up the suitcase while Aaron scolds her for not listening to her husband.
Lena arrives at the location alone because Aaron chose to alert the police. She hands the man the suitcase, but that’s not enough. He ties Lena to a chair, puts makeup on her, and takes pictures. His client wants Lena to feel worthless and bring proof. Lena demands Miriam, but the man says no and leaves. Lena unties herself and scurries to an ex-communicated friend named Skye. Skye was Amish but left. Now, Skye is a non-binary person who works as a court reporter with a YouTube channel. Skye answers a few questions about Amish life for the fans when Lena knocks at Skye’s door. Skye steams because Lena hasn’t spoken to Skye in five years. Lena apologizes and informs Skye about Miriam but refuses to give Skye any more details. Skye relents and helps Lena. But unearthing the truth will put both of their lives in danger.
Lena will stay in trouble because she digs herself deeper into each situation. The Mastermind is an obvious choice for Lifetime fans. You will wonder why it took Lena so long to figure it out. It’s unfathomable that this movie is a ‘Ripped from the Headlines’ entry. This movie took one issue, wrapped it in Amish clothing, and added a child. It tries to be a wild ride but leaves you with one question: who killed Eddie? Skye is a dedicated friend, but you can leave Lena behind with this film.
I give it 2.5 out of 5 stars
Is that something you learned with someone else – Aaron
I have told you everything – Lena
What are you doing here – Skye
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Click here for more information
A Carol for Two – Review
A Carol for Two – Hallmark – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Violette leaves her hometown behind for the bright lights of Boardway and has her father, Thomas, and the town cheering for her. Thomas informs Violette that he called Hazel to keep an eye on Violette. Hazel was the best friend of Violette’s aunt, Carol. Carol and Hazel performed together and bonded until Carol’s passing. Carol spoke highly of Violette’s talents and hoped Violette would join them on stage one day. Violette arrives at her audition and finds a man cleaning. The man explains that the investors pulled out of the show. So, they canceled it. Violette doesn’t want to return home and disappoint everyone, so she visits Hazel’s lounge called Fiore’s.
Hazel charms patrons while giving her staff hard truths. Every member of her staff is an inspiring stage performer. She offers them stage time if they earn it. She extends the offer to her best waiter, Alex, if he stops extending credit to his cousin, Brad. Brad slinks off stage, but Hazel catches him. She warns Brad to pay his tab or else. Alex knows Brad faces difficulties because Brad’s financée, Chanel, left him. Later, Brad couldn’t afford his apartment. So, Brad moved in with Alex. However, Alex tells Brad to pay his tab.
Violette arrives at Fiore’s and explains her situation to Hazel. Hazel implores Violette to tell Thomas the truth, but Violette isn’t ready. Until then, Hazel offers Violette a job, gives Violette stage time, and introduces her to the staff. Rae is the best team member but doesn’t have the warmest demeanor. Alex lives with Brad but is encouraging. So, Hazel asks Rae to room with Violette and Alex to show Violette the ropes. Rae agrees, but Alex believes Violette is another entitled employee because she got a spot instantly.
Violette performs, the crowd goes wild, and Brad is smitten. If Alex works with Violette, Hazel offers Alex a coveted spot in her Christmas Eve show. Alex relents. Brad asks Alex to learn about Violette so he can attract her. Alex is unsure but thinks dating Violette will give Brad the confidence boost he needs to find a job and move. Alex will keep up the lie, but Brad must pay his tab. As Alex and Violette work on their duet, he learns more about her and falls in love. Will he keep lying for Brad or continue lying to himself?
Brad and Hazel are the stand-out characters in this movie. They are hustlers of the same coin. Hazel is the hard-nosed momma bear for her employees. She never softens their fall but catches them on the path to Broadway. Brad is a sly fox who skates on charm and wit. The writers present him as a creep and moocher until he reunites with Chanel. The loss affected him profoundly, and Brad hasn’t bounced back. He assumes replacing Chanel will fix his problems but learns it takes more. Vivian and Alex grow throughout the film, but the script foreshadows their development. So viewers aren’t concerned about their relationship. This movie is a delightful entry into the 2024 Countdown to Christmas for holiday music lovers.
I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars
Cash only, sir. Plastic ruins the vibe – Hazel
Money is a minor detail – Brad
Bribery will get you everywhere – Alex
I think I can handle it – Violette
Find, shop for, and watch Hallmark movies on Amazon (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
My Sweet Austrian Holiday – Review
My Sweet Austrian Holiday – Hallmark Mystery – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Charlotte took over Dobler Chocolates after her grandmother passed away. Her grandmother showed Charlotte the magic of making confectionary treats, and Charlotte left the legal world behind for Austria. However, Charlotte finds herself fighting city hall. Danube Development wants to tear down the complex and build luxury shops and condos. Charlotte is the final holdout and believes she has two secret weapons to win. Charlotte is a finalist for chocolatier of the year and plans to have her shop listed as a historical landmark. She works day and night preparing the best candy for the judges, and Maya loves the candy but not the stress. Maya works in Charlotte’s store and offers sage advice.
The CEO of Danube, Morgana, reviews the logistics of their latest deal with her assistant, Jules. Jules reports they have the documents for all but one of the properties. Morgana says Charlotte doesn’t have the proof to declare her business a landmark, causing Charlotte to lose. Every other property is in escrow. She is ready to meet with Gordon, the CEO of Eurostar. He acquired her company after they obtained the lucrative deal. Henry and his right-hand man, Wilfred, arrive. Gordon had a health scare, stepped down, and gave Henry the reigns without telling Morgana. Morgana bites her tongue but sets up her presentation. Henry asks for a brief synopsis. Morgana lies and says everything is going according to plan. Henry tells Morgana he desires a holiday and doesn’t want to handle business until the new year.
Henry and Wilfred visit a Christmas market and see Charlotte and Maya at a booth. They unofficially met at a fundraiser, and Maya felt sparks between Henry and Charlotte. She tricks Charlotte into spending time alone with Henry while she gets to know Wilfred better. Henry mentions that he works for Eurostar but doesn’t discuss Danube Development. So, Charlotte asks for his help to keep her shop. Of course, he will do it for chocolate. He doesn’t know the truth until he sees her paperwork. Against Wilfred’s warnings, Henry doesn’t tell Charlotte his connection to her strife. Can he find a deal that works for them both without losing Charlotte?
The romance between Maya and Wilfred will keep you watching. Charlotte’s resolution won’t surprise Hallmarkies because the movie is a typical ‘bad developer’ story. Morgana is a villain from Disney. She belittles Charlotte with an evil grin. All she needed was a cat or a coat made of Dalmatian fur. This film won’t interest you and gets lost in the holiday schedule.
I give it 2.5 out of 5 stars
Me giving up chocolate is like Santa giving up cookies for kale. Not happening – Henry
I would love to dance with you – Charlotte
Twist my tastebuds – Wilfred
You know you are becoming very boring – Maya
Everything is for sale – Morgana
Find, shop for, and watch Hallmark Mystery movies on Amazon (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
The 5-Year Christmas Party – Review
The 5-Year Christmas Party – Hallmark – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Alex arrives late to her friend’s holiday party. They understand because she directed her first play at the local theater. They congratulate Alex on her rendition of A Christmas Carol. As they exchange gifts, Alex’s crush, Max, arrives. She escapes to the roof, and Max follows. He is a budding actor and recently got the role of Hamlet. They discuss their future and lean in for a kiss, but Alex stops Max. She doesn’t understand how he ignored her in college for four years and wants to kiss her now. Max rebuts and says she avoided him. They choose to leave without showing affection.
Alex gets a call from her mother with unfortunate news. Her mom lost the bookstore, can’t visit for Christmas, and can’t pay for Alex’s apartment. Alex runs to the theater and asks the director, Lisa, for a job. The theater can only afford volunteers, and Alex agrees. Alex meets with Max’s sister, Pam, and asks for a job at Pam’s catering company. Pam gives Alex a job but doesn’t tell Alex that Max is the bartender.
Max and Alex complete a private party job for Pam, and Pam lets Alex take the Christmas tree home. Max helps Alex take it to her apartment, and they decide to have a do-over kiss, but reverse roles. They acknowledge the attraction but are going in different directions. They choose to be friends. Max and Alex take four Christmases to get it right and be honest about what’s wrong.
This pair feels frustrating, but the script takes an authentic view of relationships. Max and Alex are young and believe a long-distance relationship will cause too much strain on their careers and personal lives. The viewers must remember the pair are in their early 20s and make age-appropriate mistakes. As they go through triumphs and troubles in their careers, they lean on and lie to each other. Like most people in the digital age, they live on a highlight reel. However, their lies unravel when Alex and Max are face-to-face. Those moments will make you laugh and cry. The timelapse is well done, necessary, and realistic.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
You kind of are Christmas to me – Alex
You would never be a distraction – Max
Get yourself a job – Lisa
It needs to be stopped – Pam
Find, shop for, and watch Hallmark movies on Amazon (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Don’t Scream, It’s Me – Review
Don’t Scream, It’s Me – Lifetime – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Liz argues with her estranged husband, Officer Jay. They live together but in separate bedrooms. Jay hasn’t fixed the dryer. So Liz puts their clothes on a line to dry. Then, a man grabs Liz from behind and tells her not to scream. Liz remembers the voice. It’s her ex-boyfriend, Drew. Drew got 25 years for armed robbery, but it’s too soon for him to be out of prison. Liz turns and sees Drew in his prison jumpsuit and one handcuff on his wrist. Drew broke out of prison. He begs for clothes and food. Liz relents and tells Drew to stay outside momentarily. Liz lies and tells Jay she’s too sick to attend work. He wishes her well and leaves.
Liz gives Drew clean clothes and a bowl of cereal. Then, she helps Drew remove the handcuffs while telling him to return to prison. Drew knows he will get time added to his sentence. But he wanted to see her. Drew escaped with Wesley, who suffers from stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Wesley killed a guard to escape, and now Drew fears Wesley will murder more. Then, Liz gets a knock at the door, and Drew hides. It’s a prison officer. After Drew escaped, they read his file and saw Liz’s name. He is there to ensure Liz isn’t hiding Drew. She tries to get the officer to leave, but the officer is relentless. He looks around the home and doesn’t find Drew. Liz gets a closer look at the officer’s name and sees it’s the dead officer’s shirt. The man, masquerading as the dead officer, is Wesley. Wesley violently grabs Liz, and Drew attacks him. Liz hides in the bathroom and waits. Wesley overpowers Drew and handcuffs him to the refrigerator. Wesley demands Liz assist him, or he will kill Drew.
This movie is wild and funny at the same time. Liz has the worst taste in men. She dated a dreamer with zero ambition but married an ambitious man with zero interest in her dreams. Liz makes countless mistakes in this movie, as with her dating life. Her commitment to health care won’t allow her to kill Wesley when he’s down. Instead, she imprisons him, and he lives to keep fighting. Liz and Drew’s backstory consistently slows the excitement but offers a compelling look into Liz’s thought process. This film has exciting moments, but several flashbacks distract the audience.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
You’re not talking to me, Jay. You just want someone to agree with you – Liz
No matter what I do, I can’t win – Jay
Don’t scream. It’s me – Drew
This is good. That is real good – Wesley
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Click here for more information
Return to Sender – Review
Return to Sender – UPtv – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Meg moves into her new apartment and finds a letter in her mailbox. It’s pink with a ‘return to sender’ stamp on it. The letter has her address with an M for the name. She must meet with the building manager, Ollie, to sign documents. So, she will ask Ollie about the previous tenant so she can send them the letter.
Ellen pleads with Ollie to let her install soundproofing in her apartment. She records a podcast called ‘The Rest is Mystery’ with her friend, Pete. However, Ollie says no because it goes against the building codes. Meg enters as Ellen leaves. Meg gives Ollie the letter, but the previous tenant’s name didn’t start with M. Before Ollie can open it, Meg stops him because it’s wrong. Ollie takes Meg to the building’s records, but they can’t find the paperwork for the previous occupant. Meg caves and lets Ollie read the letter. It’s a love letter written to Felix and signed ‘Your Lucky Penny.’ They don’t know what to do next, so they continue their day.
Meg makes breakfast before studying for the CPA exam and hears something in the backyard. She looks outside her window, and Ollie invites her to a backyard breakfast. The building’s tenants get together and talk. Meg smiles and meets them outside. Ollie informed the group about the letter. And it sparked Ellen’s curiosity. The podcast’s viewership dropped, and Pete wants fresh content for her show. Ellen and Pete want to help by getting listeners engaged in the mystery. They can offer help, and Meg and Ollie can reunite two long loves. Can they find the sender and recipient?
This film is a POstables mystery on UPtv. The plot adds unnecessary issues with Meg’s off-again boyfriend, Logan, and her CPA exam. Meg has an unwavering 5-year plan, but she fixates on the mystery as the test date looms. Also, Ollie avoids writing his next novel. They are using this mystery to evade other responsibilities. The movie also has several subplots to fill in time between the enigma. Pete has a crush on Ellen, but she doesn’t want to hurt their friendship. And Ollie’s brother, Darren, lies to Meg’s best friend, Britney, to woo her. But you won’t care about this, just the love letter. You should DVR this movie to skip to the good parts.
I give it 2.5 out of 5 stars
Sure, until you lose your security deposit – Pete
I know the numbers have dropped a bit, but we will be fine – Ellen
No, you can’t do that – Ollie
When it fits into my plan – Meg
No way I would miss one of your podcasts – Giselle
Love our brotherly talks – Darren
Find, shop for, and watch UPtv movies on iTunes (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Click here for more information
The Christmas Charade – Review
The Christmas Charade – Hallmark – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Elementary school librarian Whitney watches spy romance movies before work. Her co-worker, friend Rachel, wants Whitney to try online dating. Whitney says no because she is acutely aware of the potential danger. Rachel knew Whitney would say no. So, she got a nice guy’s email address. She wants Whitney to do something adventurous and email Mark. Whitney returns home and meets with her parents, Cheryl and Jim, for a family game night. She asks them to do something more fun, like skiing. The former home security installers go over the statistics of skiing injuries. Whitney dismisses her idea and emails Mark for a date. They plan to meet at a restaurant, and he says he will wear a green sweater.
Agent Michaels smiles when Agent Josh joins the holiday party until Agent Josh states he’s there for business. Josh wants more time to investigate art thefts, but Michaels wants to pull Josh off the case. Josh hasn’t produced a lead in six months, and the culprit stole six artifacts. Josh believes Lou used his wife’s connections to get into the museums. Lou’s wife, Patty, will host the Mistletoe Ball. It will feature the Heart of Christmas necklace worth $10 million. Josh thinks Lou will use the Ball to steal the necklace. He has plans to meet with Lou and Patty at a local restaurant, but Michaels wants to replace Josh with another agent. Josh believes a new agent will scare Lou away. Agent Michael agrees to let Josh continue, but Josh has to include a new agent and present the agent as his girlfriend. If Josh doesn’t comply, the case is over. Josh agrees.
Whitney arrives at the restaurant and looks for Mark. Mark drops something and bends to pick it up. Whitney sees a man in a green sweater, walks over to him, and sits down. It’s Josh. Josh assumes she is the agent and asks if she read the file. Whitney thinks he means profile and says yes. Soon, Josh discovers Whitney isn’t the agent, but it’s too late because Lou and Patty arrive. Josh introduces Whitney as his girlfriend, and she protests. Josh grabs her and brings her to an area where they can talk alone. He explains the situation and pleads with Whitney not to blow his cover. She relents because she needs excitement. Patty and Whitney have an instant friendship. Patty learns that Whitney has experience throwing balls and hires Whitney. Josh and Whitney are working together to catch Lou before he can steal the Heart of Christmas. Can they catch their art thief before they kill each other?
This movie provides the missing mystery genre this holiday season while offering Christmas charm and laughs. Whitney is hyper-focused on safety, like her parents. She advises her kindergarten students, and her father consistently checks her locks. They have holiday traditions and rely on each other. Josh is the opposite. He avoids the holiday because he doesn’t have a family. Josh keeps everyone at a comfortable distance and concentrates on the job before him. He helps Whitney find her adventurous side, and she shows him the beauty of the holiday and family. While they solve the crime, the plot surprises the audience, but not with the thief. This film is the perfect enigma for the holidays.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
I just signed up for a little adventure – Whitney
Wow, your parents really did a number on you – Rachel
I don’t really do Christmas or small talk – Josh
It’s either the girlfriend or the stacks – Agent Michaels
You don’t want that – Lou
Find, shop for, and watch Hallmark movies on Amazon (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Share this:
Categories: A Carol for Two, A Kidnapping in Amish Country, Brittany Bristow, Charlotte d'Amboise, christmas, Corey Sevier, Countdown to Christmas, Don't Scream, It's Me, Elise Bauman, Ginna Claire Mason, hallmark, Hallmark Mystery, holiday, Jordan Fisher, Jordan Litz, Jorja Cadence, Katie Findlay, Kaylah Zander, lifetime, Love Sundays, Maddy Hillis, Made for TV, Markian Tarasiuk, movie, My Sweet Austrian Holiday, Nathanael Vass, Rachel Skarsten, Return to Sender, review, The 5-Year Christmas Party, The Christmas Charade, tv review, UPtv, Will Kemp
thatdarngirlmovie.reviews 