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Toni Braxton’s He Wasn’t Man Enough – Review
Toni Braxton’s He Wasn’t Man Enough – Lifetime – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Author Melanie encourages her boyfriend, Richard, before his investor’s meeting. He’s been pitching his app for years and believes this will be his big break. Melanie prays he will live up to his potential. She has a book signing for her upcoming project when her friend, Candy, stops by. The two go for a walk afterward and discuss their relationships. Melanie gushes about Richard. However, Candy’s marriage to Byron isn’t as strong. She thought they would have more free time when they became empty nesters. Sadly, Byron rarely touches her. She admits he’s a good husband, but misses physical intimacy.
Melanie returns home to overflowing trash cans, unpacked boxes, and luggage. She calls around, but no one knows Richard’s location. Also, Richard’s assistant doesn’t know anything about his meeting. Melanie confronts Richard, and he belittles and rages at her. She tells him to leave because she bought the house. Richard laughs and comments about her age and loneliness. Melanie slams the door behind him and calls Candy. Candy arrives with a bat. Melanie admits to Candy that she invested in his company, clothes, and jewelry. Candy helps Melanie recoup her losses by selling the items Mel bought for Richard. She urges Melanie to distance herself from Richard.
Candy goes over Monica’s business documents. Dr. Monica is a dermatologist with a thriving skin care line. Candy, Monica, and Melanie were best friends at Spelman College. However, that ended when Monica got married. Melanie warned Monica that her husband was controlling, but Monica married him anyway. Monica finally left him and thrived. After the relationship ended, Monica and Melanie didn’t speak to each other. With Melanie back in town, Candy secretly invites them both to lunch. The forced reunion starts bumpy but smooths out. The three become friends again and spend a day at the spa.
Months later, Monica returns from a month-long business trip. Before she left, she spoke highly of her new boyfriend, Mr. C. She promised to update them upon her return. Monica has a party and invites her friends to celebrate her upcoming European launch. Melanie and Candy wave to Monica as the DJ introduces her. Then, Richard enters and kisses Monica. Melanie excuses herself, cries in the bathroom, and leaves after they get engaged. She invites Monica for milkshakes the next day and explains Richard’s wrongdoings. Monica accuses Melanie of being petty and jealous. She says that Richard changed for her and put a ring on her finger. Melanie warns Monica that if Richard wasn’t man enough for her, he won’t be for Monica. The women have no idea how low Richard will go.
Based on Toni Braxton’s iconic song, this film cautions against falling in love with an entitled man who serves only potential (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). Richard’s behavior screams narcissist and is identifiable on TV. However, viewers in these relationships may not recognize it and the deceptive talking points until this movie. The script balances humor with romance as the women conspire to take Richard down. The writers make the audience pity the well-meaning waiter. Don’t worry about viewing this with your partner. The script introduces two wonderful men. Melanie’s neighbor, Greg, comes to her defense and puzzles. Byron is a wonderful husband, but his secret makes him feel unmanly. This film isn’t about hating men. The characters say it best. This picture isn’t about the woman finding love with a partner. It’s about them reclaiming their friendship with each other. This movie will make you laugh out loud and clutch your pearls. So sit back, relax, and enjoy.
I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars
It’s fake. It’s all fake – Monica
You are a force to be reckoned with – Melanie
This urge you have to commit murder, can you find a legal way to channel it? – Candy
You’re right. I’m sorry. Can we please just move on – Richard
I’m man enough – Greg
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Whispers of a Secret Life – Review
Whispers of a Secret Life – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Business partners, Amanda and Jess, celebrate 17 years of friendship and exchange gifts. Amanda gives Jess a company-branded jacket, and Jess hands Amanda a packet; inside the packet are flyers for a seminar named Harvest. It’s for those who need help growing their business. Amanda isn’t sure about the lessons, but Jess begs Amanda to attend one session.
They arrive and meet the instructor, Faye. The material, motivation, and promises enamor Jess, but Amanda isn’t as enthusiastic. Amanda wants to stop, but Jess begs her to take another class. Jess arrives the next day, but Amanda isn’t there. Jess asks Faye for time to look for Amanda. Faye warns Jess that missing one class means forfeiting everything. Jess promises to return quickly. She scrambles around the building and finds Amanda on the ground, unconscious.
The doctor checks Amanda. She has a concussion and an old hairline fracture. Amanda doesn’t remember what caused the fracture and has a splitting headache. The doctor warns Jess about future symptoms and provides a list of doctors who can assist in long-term care. Jess breathes a sigh of relief because Amanda is safe. However, the relief is short-lived. Amanda’s behavior becomes erratic, hostile, and violent. Jess fears for her friend. Can Jess help Amanda before it’s too late?
As one viewer said, this movie does a lot and nothing at the same time. The writers attempt to keep Amanda’s secret life quiet until the big reveal at the end. However, this tactic leaves the audience in a state of confusion. Soon, everyone’s behavior looks crazy. The final 10 minutes wrap up Amanda’s past, motive, and fears nicely. Sadly, the audience won’t care because they created a better ending in their head than the writers did. This film is background noise with a few moments of excitement.
I give it 2.5 out of 5 stars
I am here. I am awake. I am going to do great – Faye
I thought you liked it – Jess
How much do we really know about this organization – Amanda
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A Loud House Christmas Movie: Naughty or Nice – Review
A Loud House Christmas Movie: Naughty or Nice – Nickelodeon – 1 hour and 30 minutes
Elf Duncan rides high after creating an automated Naughty or Nice list called TINSIL. It’s streamlined Santa’s operation and ensures joy on Christmas. Then, the program blinks frantically. Santa sees this and asks Duncan to investigate the issues. Duncan looks at the code and sees they have a flipper. A flipper is a kid who jumps back and forth on the lists. Santa tells Duncan to give him the kid’s information. His name is Lincoln Loud. This entry is Lincoln’s first time on the naughty list. Santa demands a man on the ground to confirm Lincoln’s behavior. Elf Jerrold looks through the list and finds one Elf available. It’s Duncan.
Clyde films Lincoln’s requests for Santa on a VHS tape. The Loud family and Clyde travel to the Gingerhausen fair with plans of selfies, Santa, and Krampus. Duncan unwillingly follows the family and tracks Lincoln. He watches Lincoln do nice and naughty things throughout the park and tracks the flips. Soon, Lincoln gets a feeling that someone is following him. He and Clyde decide to confirm, corner, and confront. By chance, they discover Duncan, who accidentally reveals he’s an elf and Lincoln’s position on the list. Lincoln tries to convince Duncan that he’s nice, but makes the situation worse. Duncan disappears but leaves his tablet behind.
Lincoln does nice things around he house for his siblings, but his name is still on the naughty list. He’s tired of being good, so he uses Lisa’s robot to hack the list. Lincoln sleeps knowing he will get a gift for Christmas. Hours later, the Loud family wakes up to enjoy the holiday. Instead, everyone got coal but him. This incident isn’t a one-off. The Naughties of the world got gifts while the Nice got a lump. Lincoln tells his family the truth when their father, Lynn Sr., loses his business. The Loud Family vows to save Christmas. Can they?
The latest Loud Family movie teaches about the actual meaning of ‘nice.’ Lincoln fakes a caring attitude when he’s on the naughty list, but everything he does is self-serving. Children and tweens watch performative acts of kindness on social media. It’s good for them to learn that giving from the heart is at the forefront of being nice. This film succeeds because Lincoln doesn’t do it alone. He works with his family to save the holiday, the North Pole, and Santa. And Lincoln isn’t the only person getting a lesson. Duncan learns about human beings. They can’t be perfect, and he needs to account for the gray area of existence. One Loud Sibling has character growth that no one will see coming. The animation is rough by today’s standards, but it returns to a simpler time. This film is a magical watch for kids and parents this holiday season. It has something for everyone.
I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars
Keep up the good work – Duncan
Christmas needs you. I need you – Santa
Once. That happened once – Jerrold
Push into the fireplace – Lincoln
This is the year I finally get Krampus to sign my book – Lucy
Who’s with me – Lynn, Sr
Don’t blow your streak – Lana
Dr. Lopez says that’s generalized anxiety disorder – Clyde
I’m coo coo for these clocks – Luan
The roof needs some pizzazz – Lisa
And how much for the star – Rita
Well, at least it’s some solid cardio – Lynn
Why didn’t you tell us? We could have coordinated – Leni
I love most of you guys too – Lola
Lock it down – Lori
Back off, old man – Lily
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Tidings for the Season – Review
Tidings for the Season – Hallmark – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Lucy begs her son, Robbie, to get ready for school. He’s captivated by the local news anchor, Adam. It’s Robbie’s dream to anchor the news one day. Today, Robbie will be one step closer when his 5th-grade class attends a field trip to the news station. Lucy drops off Robbie and heads to work at the beauty salon. When she sees Adam on TV, Lucy turns it off because he only delivers sad news. She wishes they would report on upbeat stories.
Adam tapes a few segments while his producer, Todd, delivers cues. Todd asks Adam to help with the field trip, but Adam wants to focus on his tapings. Todd walks the kids to the control room, while Robbie slips away and sits at the anchor desk. To the crew’s delight, Robbie interviews Adam. After the kids leave, Adam finds Robbie’s binder under his desk with a return note inside. Todd suggests Adam hand-deliver it and offer Robbie a week-long internship.
Adam brings the binder to a star-struck Robbie and offers him the job. Lucy tells Robbie to wait inside so the grown-ups can talk. She turns down Adam’s offer, but Robbie convinces her to say yes because it’s what he wants for Christmas. Lucy caves and agrees to let Robbie spend time with Adam after school, learning the ropes. Adam doesn’t know that this week will change his life personally and professionally. Will that disappear when a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity comes his way?
The cute kid makes this film. Robbie is kind, outspoken, and determined. The writers should have fast-forwarded 20 years to Robbie anchoring the news with Lucy and Adam proudly watching on the sidelines. Robbie is the voice of reason amongst adults, and your heart will melt when he’s on screen. He steals every scene and line with his can-do attitude. This story puts pressure on the male lead to change his career focus for love. Lucy must change her perspective on asking for help. She is altruistic but fearful of being let down. These feelings are usually attributed to one character while the other is the healer. However, they help each other see the brighter path. This film is compelling and touching. It’s worth adding to your holiday slate.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
That’s better – Lucy
Dasher, obviously – Adam
Tis the season, Adam – Todd
With that nose, does everything smell like carrots – Robbie
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Eric Jerome Dickey’s Friends and Lovers – Review
Eric Jerome Dickey’s Friends and Lovers – Lifetime – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Part 1
Flight attendant Shelby enters her best friend’s bed to commiserate about their dating life. Shelby returned home to find her boyfriend, Bryce, starting his latest career as a DJ with a house full of people. She demanded they leave before exiting. Shelby’s friend, OB/GYN Debra, isn’t having the best luck either. Her ex-fiancé, James, came to her clinic with his new pregnant wife. Debra found her patient a new doctor before ending her care. Debra doesn’t want to give up on love and hires a matchmaking service to help. However, Shelby decides to be celibate.
Comedian Leonard finishes his set but gets heckled by his drunk ex-girlfriend. He meets with his friend, Tyrel, who shares his troubles with women. Leonard laughs because Tyrel dates unavailable women. They admit they have to make a change if they want to find the woman for them.
Debra goes to a car wash, but the tap-to-pay feature doesn’t work. Leonard gets out of his car and pays for her wash. She offers to pay him back, but he refuses. She parks her vehicle to dry it, and he parks next to her. They flirt and exchange numbers. Debra discovers he’s broke, but chooses to give him a chance. Leonard thinks she’s too together, but invites her to his show. Debra leaves with a smile, while Leonard calls Tyrel to borrow money so he doesn’t overdraw his account with Debra’s car wash.
Debra arrives at the comedy show with Shelby. Shelby excuses herself for the bathroom and has an awkward encounter with Tyrel. They enjoy Leonard’s set and meet afterward. Debra and Leonard trick Shelby and Tyrel into spending the evening together. After tonight, two sets of friends will become a pair of lovers. Will both relationships last?
I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars
Don’t do this, not here – Debra
I’m tired. Just get out – Shelby
You said no – Leonard
You play below your weight class – Tyrel
Part 2
Leonard’s TV show is a hit, and he has become a household name. He and Debra shop for a new home. The realtor leaves them alone, and they make love. Debra hates that she gave in to temptation, but her mood changes when Leonard gets down on one knee. Leonard and Debra get married and start their lives together. However, their relationship turns grim when they are unable to conceive a child. Debra worries their marriage won’t weather this storm.
Shelby and Tyrel’s relationship has its challenges. She fears he will leave and continuously tests his loyalty. Tyrel doesn’t advocate for what he wants and needs in their courtship. However, they promise to communicate and strengthen their bond. Tyrel bought an engagement ring to prove it. Shelby’s proof is the baby inside of her. A baby that she’s not sure she wants because she doesn’t feel secure in their relationship. She calls Debra for a ride to the clinic when an old girlfriend of Tyrel sees her there and alerts him. He confronts Shelby about terminating the pregnancy, and she ends the relationship. Debra and Leonard pray they can work it out. Will their prayers be answered?
Review of Parts One and Two
Based on Friends and Lovers by Eric Jerome Dickey, these films explore the dynamics of friendship and romantic relationships (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). Unlike other romances, the story doesn’t stop at ‘I Do.’ Proving that the wedding is one day, but the marriage is forever. Part one gives the audience a chance to know the characters’ lives, bonds, and dreams, even if they are unattainable. Part two shows the audience the aftermath of their decisions. The producers’ decision to make this movie into two parts was perfect. However, the second part passed too fast. While part one covered a month or two, the second part covered years. It’s harder to follow than its prequel. Shelby will be your least favorite character, but give her grace. She is a woman who operates on hurt. Shelby strikes before others can cause her pain. Leonard is a man reaching for the best in himself and others. He will be your favorite. The heartbreak this film delivers is a testament to its character development. You must watch both parts of this picture to appreciate the storytelling and raw emotions.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
I’m spiraling – Shelby
Tell the truth. You feel it too – Debra
I’m not thinking anything – Tyrel
We just had a beautiful moment. Don’t blow this off – Leonard
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Saving the Christmas Ranch – Review
Saving the Christmas Ranch – UPtv – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Carrie delegates work to her employees before the Christmas Festival on her family’s ranch, Snow Village Ranch and Inn. Carrie gets a call from developer John. She tells him she will never sell her ranch. He promises to let her stay in charge while adding more rooms and amenities. She says no and tells him to take a vacation. Her concierge, Hannah, updates Carrie about their latest booking. They have a guests coming today, but a pipe burst in their cabin. Carrie groans because the only open room is the one next to hers. Carrie tells Hannah to book the suite adjacent to her because there is always room at the inn. Then, Carrie gets a call from her banker, Kurt. He wants to meet with her immediately to discuss the ranch’s finances. Carrie ponders if Kurt can wait until after the holidays, but he demands that they meet today. Next, Carrie sits with her grandmother, Rose. Rose and her late husband, Ray, founded the ranch and festival, and then passed it on to Carrie. Now, Rose plays Mrs. Claus every year. Rose expresses her concern because the feed check bounced. Carrie doesn’t know how that’s possible. She assures Rose that everything is okay and runs to her computer. She checks the ranch’s business account. It has a negative balance. She calls their accountant, Sandra, but Sandra doesn’t answer the phone.
Carrie meets with Kurt, and he warns her that they are 3 months behind on the ranch’s loan. She has 2 days to pay the $15,000 balance, or the bank will foreclose on the ranch. She pleads for more time, but Kurt says no. He warned Sandra about the payments for months. She ignored him. Now, the bank wants the money. Carrie rushes to leave before Kurt can finish his following statement.
Carrie returns to the ranch. However, she stops in her tracks when she sees John. John is the new guest who will be next to her. He wants to get a firsthand view of the ranch in case she changes her mind and decides to sell it. Carrie grits her teeth and reminds John that she won’t sell. However, he can chip in and see what makes this ranch a town staple. He agrees to help and get to know the employees. At first, she hides the potential foreclosure from him. However, he offers to help her raise the funds after observing the impact on the community. She believes John will be a helpful hand, but someone nefarious guided his way. Can Carrie save her family’s ranch, or will the evildoer win?
This movie is unique because it displays honest compassion. Viewers will figure out the twist and the puppet master within a private conversation. It’s Carrie’s connection to her employees and the community that warms your heart and keeps you watching. John isn’t an evil developer. He makes his intentions know and wants to work with Carrie to keep the ranch running. However, he has a monetary focus until he talks to the townspeople and the staff. The plot makes him a good guy in wolf’s clothing. Soon, he’s offering ideas to help her raise the $15,000. The script writes the leads as two sides of the same coin, and it’s wonderfully charming. While the ending is predictable, this movie is a comfortable winter watch.
I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars
That goat has issues – Carrie
I couldn’t agree more. I do need a vacation – John
Are you letting out air over there – Rose
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Categories: A Loud House Christmas Movie: Naughty or Nice, BJ Britt, Brian Stepanek, Brianna Cohen, Brittany Cavaco, Cait Moira, Catherine Taber, Countdown to Christmas, Cristina Pucelli, Elijah-Justus Lewis, Essence Atkins, Grey Griffin, hallmark, Hateful and Grateful, Jessica DiCicco, Jill Talley, Jonathan Stoddard, Julia-Kate Hill, Kendrick Sampson, Lara Jill Miller, lifetime, lifetime movie network, Liliana Mumy, lmn, Made for TV, Most Uplifting Christmas Ever, movie, Naturi Naughton, Nickelodeon, Nika Futterman, review, Ronreaco Lee, Saving the Christmas Ranch, Sawyer Cole, Simone Missick, Tamera Mowry-Housley, Thomas Cadrot, Tidings for the Season, toni braxton, Toni Braxton's He Wasn't Man Enough, tv review, UPtv, Whispers of a Secret Life, Yvette Nicole Brown
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