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#AlexAndMe, #TheWrongFriend, and more – Movie Review
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Alex & Me – Review
Alex & Me – Nickelodeon – 1 hour and 30 minutes
Reagan just moved to a new town and wants to join the championship girl soccer team. When the coach is watching, she gives a less than stellar performance. Reagan tries to reason with the coach by mentioning that she is in the same position as her favorite player, Alex Morgan, was in at her age. The coach sees this as a “dog and pony” show that all newcomers try to use. He dismisses Reagan and she leaves her with crushed dreams. She goes home and rips all the posters and memorabilia off her walls. As she tries to take down her Alex Morgan poster, she slips and bumps her head. She is awakened by Alex. Reagan believes she has lost her mind due to the fall and calls her mother. Alex tells Reagan is very real and here to help her. Of course, no one else can see Alex. But Alex gives Reagan the confidence to try out for another team, train harder, and try new techniques. With a guiding force by her side, Reagan will be unstoppable.
For the kids and soccer fans alike, this is a fun and wholesome movie about true perseverance and strength. When everyone is doubting Reagan, she uses her “guardian angel” to be her guiding force. While her inspiration is magic, her skill development is not. She trains harder, more often, and increase her skill set every day. She even keeps track with a goal chart, which inspires her brother, Logan. An interesting dynamic is the family relationship. Her parents are so focused on Logan’s scholarship, that they ignore Reagan. It’s an overheard conversation with Amy that makes them see that Reagan and Logan need their attention. This is a good movie for the whole family.
For Kids: I give it 4 out of 5 stars
Everyone else: I give it 3 out of 5 stars
Are you really doing all this stuff – Logan
Sometimes I wish my dad would pay more attention to me – Reagan
Do I know you – Alex
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The Wrong Friend – Review
The Wrong Friend – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Riley confronts her boyfriend Matt with evidence of cheating. When he doesn’t take responsibility, she shows him the door and goes back to the pool party. Again she meets Chris. New-to-town Chris asked Riley and her best friend Kim to put the word out about his pool party. He gives Riley a drink and it’s not long before Kim notices she is drunk. Kim tries to convince Riley to leave but she wants to stay with Chris. The next morning Riley wakes up in bed with no memory of what happened. She goes to school to find a furious Matt. Someone sent him pictures of she and Chris together. Riley can’t believe it and goes to Chris for answers. Chris laughs at her threats and goes on the warpath. Riley doesn’t know that Chris is a man on a revenge mission and she is just a pawn in his game.
Riley doesn’t take long to realize who is harassing her and she doesn’t point blame at anyone else. But this movie isn’t a cautionary tale about date rape but more about slut shaming. When they delve into Chris’s past they see he left a trail of bullying behind him that lead to a girls death. Chris isn’t just insane, he is also manipulative and charming. It doesn’t take time for that charm to melt away because he has the wildest crazy eyes ever on Lifetime. As he takes a scene from A Thin Line Between Love and Hate, he turns up the nutty with an evil villain laugh (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). So if you enjoy your evil villains with a smile, this is the movie for you.
I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars
Could you lower your voice just a tad, please? People are staring. You don’t want to make a spectacle out of yourself – Chris
It’s a promise – Matt
Its messed up he can do this to us – Kim
I hope I never see him again – Riley
I thought I told you to run – Jaclyn
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The Bad Seed – Review
The Bad Seed – Lifetime – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Emma confidently waits to hear her name called for the Citizens award. She has been working hard all year to earn that medallion. It would look great next to all her other awards. Until Milo’s name is called. She is floored to hear he beat her but she keeps a calm, cool, and collected look on her face. She believes his medallion is hers and she gets it back. And Milo is found dead in a river at the bottom of a cliff. Emma can’t understand why people are so sad about Milo dying because everyone dies. Emma is happy to have her medallion but now she has to deal with a new babysitter Chloe. Emma knows Chloe is sneaking pills and Chloe knows Emma is a killer. Even though Chloe keeps her secret, she constantly taunts Emma about her teacher Ms. Ellis, her dad Mr. Grossman, jail, a little pink electric chair. Emma must gain control of everyone around her before she loses the love of her dad.
A remake of 1965’s classic The Bad Seed, which was based upon the book by William March, this movie lives up to the hype (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). While it does modernize itself, gone are the sweet angelic face of a little girl. Instead, you get a devilish grin that practices being kind and sweet in the mirror. You will be taken back each time this girl switches from kind to manipulative to pure evil. As her father slowly sees signs of his daughter’s dark nature, he is left with a heartbreaking decision that separates this movie from the original. And fans of the classic movie, keep your eyes open for Patty McCormack: the original Bad Seed. She and Emma share a joke only they will understand. Watch this movie with the lights on and know where your kids are.
I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars
Emma is very focused. She’s a normal girl but she can be very focused – Mr. Grossman
We should go back now – Milo
You little bitch – Chloe
Bring me a couple of cookies while you’re at it – Emma
Emma I’m gonna tell you a secret, I did the exact same things as you when I was your age – Dr. March
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Wedding of Dreams – Review
Wedding of Dreams – Hallmark – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Debbie Taylor is a former teen sensation turned music teacher. She released a new song a year ago but fans want more. Her manager Ray is trying his best to get her to do more music but he wants her to start with a remote interview first. During the interview, Debbie’s student’s interrupted her with questions. While answering them, she accidentally accepts a guest appearance on a TV show. She starts to worry because her boyfriend Noah just proposed. Even though they wanted the wedding in July, it had to be moved to June so they can get the room they wanted for the reception. So in one week, Debbie has a guest appearance, a TV guest appearance, and a wedding. Noah offers to help with all the planning but have both took on too much? And how will obligations affect their future?
Adding another movie to the “Of Dreams” series, the characters grow and have a real conflict. While both are making a sacrifice, they have reservations. This couples biggest issue is communication. They are trying so hard to keep the peace, they don’t talk. This leads to an embarrassing moment on live TV. It’s not the best movie Hallmark has produced, it does feature original songs by Debbie Gibson and a funny Tiffany joke. DVR and watch on a rainy day.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
I’ll take that as a compliment – Debbie
I’m not sure what those are but I am sure they won’t travel – Noah
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#HerBoyfriendsSecret, #HouseOfDarknessNewBlood, and more – TV Reviews
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Her Boyfriend’s Secret – Review
Her Boyfriend’s Secret – Lifetime – 2 hours and 3 minutes
Melissa was recommended by her friend Travis (a contractor) to decorate John’s home. She prepared several design options and he loves her work. And her. After flirtation exchanges, the two start to date. Melissa thinks her new adventure loving, horse-riding, pilot boyfriend is a dream come true. They are quickly falling for each other. But when Carey, John’s ex, visits, she warns Melissa that John is obsessive and attacked her. Also, he lied about his job and his name. Carey informs Melissa that he is smart and dangerous. Melissa blows off Carey’s warning until Travis warns her that John can be a little weird. She decides to investigate John’s home, car, and past. This “great” boyfriend has more than one secret.
Seriously, how many warnings do you need!! As Melissa gets more clues to John’s dark side, she continues to stay in the relationship. While she tells Travis it’s to investigate, she tells Carey she still believes him. Melissa makes so many dumb decisions while attempting to be a smart investigator. It’s hard to care about Melissa taking John down because you are too busy yelling at the screen. You just want to shake her. Even though this movie leaves you wanting more from its protagonist, John can’t be ignored. His charm is infectious and his lies will leave you up at night. He is the perfect sociopath.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
I’m not ready – Travis
I want you to know I’m not going anywhere – John
I’m gonna post something – Ashley
You still haven’t told me who you are – Melissa
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House of Darkness: New Blood – Review
House of Darkness: New Blood – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
After her husband left her a ‘Dear John’ letter and never came back, Brooke and her son Dylan are left to pick up the pieces. With Judd’s proposal, she feels almost whole again. She starts to fantasize about the perfect wedding when Judd’s mother Elaine’s nurse abruptly quits. He wants to go back to his family home, find a nursing home for Elaine, and sell her house. Alison feels this is too much for him to handle alone, so she asks Judd to bring her and Dylan. Judd is happy to have the help. On her first night, she hears and sees things in the night. She explains it as a side effect of her medication. But she decides to stay because her son loves being there. However, the longer she stays the worse her delusions get until she can’t take it anymore. Just as she is about to leave a picture, film negatives, and a file will expose the truth about the house. And the truth doesn’t care about what you believe.
This movie has a very slow build to tell the back story of both Judd and Alison while creating a connection between then and Elaine. The movie even sets up a reason for Alison’s delusions with her heavy sleeping medication. So you start to wonder if she is having a mental breakdown. To get in a few scares, this movie uses creepy figures, a sleeping child calling for its mother, and scary voices. For seasoned thriller/horror pros, this movie is laughable. The fainter at heart may jump once or twice. But it’s the truth that will leave you with more questions than answers.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
It’s ok. It’s been a while since there were kids in this house – Dylan
It was Judd’s favorite and Michael loved it – Elaine
There’s no shame in being sensitive – Doris
Well, you better figure it out – Brooke
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The Bobby Brown Story – Review
The Bobby Brown Story – BET – 4 hours and 0 minutes (divided over 2 days, 2 hours each day)
Part 1
In 1980, Bobby Brown rode bikes with a friend, within minutes that friend was stabbed to death in front of him. When he comes home after being fired from New Edition, he walks past the foyer where his friend died. He enters a state of depression and decides to get money any way he can. When his mother Carol sees him looking for her gun, she calls Jheryl Busby to set him straight. He gives Bobby hope by reminding him the company is obligated to give him a solo album. With his brother Tommy as his manager, Bobby starts a solo career. When his first album King of Stage gets mediocre responses, Busby convinces Motown to give Bobby Brown another chance with L.A. Reid and Babyface (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). Motown agrees. Bobby is happy with the second chance but he must be able to do this album his way. That decision leads Bobby Brown to become the King of R&B.
This movie gives you 5 minutes of pre-New Edition Bobby Brown and the rest is after New Edition. So, it’s a good idea to see The New Edition Movie first. It showcases Bobby’s strong family ties and determination to make it as a solo artist. However, he always did it with New Edtion in mind. He always wanted to top them to prove he was needed. That is the way Bobby handled everything in life. He was constantly proving himself to doubters. While the first half will feel like a long music video with Girlfriend, Rock With’cha, and My Prerogative, it’s a testament to the career and talent of Bobby Brown. In case you are watching for Whitney, the couple meets, gets engaged, and gets married in this part. But their story was never a fairytale with drugs, infidelity, and two pregnancies before they even said ‘I do’.
You know if you take that thing out of here, you probably gonna have to use it – Carol
For this to work, you need to get the right producer – Ralph
So fellas, who’re your stylist – Tommy
Y’all gotta let me be me – Bobby
Your son’s got a real head for business – Brian
I don’t know which show is better – Whitney
Oh, is that all I am? I was here before you and I will be here after you – Robyn
Part 2
Deep into his addiction, Bobby Brown is consistently on the wrong side of the law. Drug use has made him paranoid, get in car accidents, and have a stroke. As he lies in a hospital bed, Whitney and Bobbi Kristina, his daughter, are by his side. They decide to stop using all drugs and get their lives back on track. The first step, go on a vacation to the Bahamas. The second step was to go to rehab but when the family lands, Bobby is arrested for a parole violation in Florida. He is sentenced to a stint in jail. It’s there that he sobers up for the first time and resist the temptation of drugs. Meanwhile, Tommy has been working on a way to rehab Bobby’s image to get him back on top. A reality show starring him and with his family. This show solidified what their fans feared. The world of the Browns was falling apart, no one was at the helm, and Bobbi Kristina was there for it all. Bobby has to put his life back on track before he loses his life.
The second half of this movie is filled with so much pain and sadness, it’s hard not to cry. This movie pulls no punch but doesn’t cast complete blame. While Carol Brown refused to see her son’s faults, he saw them within himself. The same drive he put into the growth of his career, he put that same drive into the downfall of his career. The hardest revelation in this movie is the truth all addicts bare: just as they are getting themselves together, everything around them falls apart. As Bobby finds love, a career, and sobriety, he loses four family members in 3 years. The movie ends on one positive note: The real reason Bobby Brown is standing today.
I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars
I’m a start without you – Whitney
We need to rehab your image – Tommy
It feels desperate – Bobby
Do I look like Whitney to you – Alicia
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His Perfect Obsession – Review
His Perfect Obsession – Lifetime – 2 hours and 3 minutes
Allison and her daughter Abigail enjoy their time together while talking on the phone with their Aunt Charlotte. Then they hear a sickening sound. Charlotte was hit by a car and died. At Charlotte’s funeral, Allison, Abigail, and Allison’s husband Wyatt meet Bart. Bart was Charlotte’s accountant and want to help get her affairs in order as quickly and painlessly as possible. Wyatt on the other hands sees something else, he believes Bart was hitting on Allison and wants him to stay away. Wyatt’s possessiveness leaves Allison shocked because Wyatt is having an affair. She and Abigail overhear him talking to his mistress, so she ends their relationship and kicks him out. Wyatt goes to drown his sorrows at a bar and runs into Bart. After they exchange words, Bart leaves. Wyatt believes he has won but he doesn’t know that Bart has been quietly stalking Allison on social media and he feels now is his chance to make his move. He will do anything to have Allison and Abigail all to himself. Even kill.
With the era of social media, this story rings too true. It’s easy for a stalker to watch your page, post, or tweets for years and you never know. Quietly creating an obsession without you knowing they exist. And with Bart being a quiet unassuming guy, Allison would have no need to worry about her or her family’s safety. As things start to turn for the worse, Allison must count on her greatest strength: Abigail. Being recently blinded to medication, most movies would have her be a hindrance. But this movie shows Abigail as ABLED not disabled. This is the most beautiful quality of this movie.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
She cries sarcasm instead of tears – Allison
Are we all going to pretend he wasn’t hitting on you right in front of me – Wyatt
I want you to leave – Alice
I may be many things but I am not clueless – Bart
Why did you park in the street – Abigail
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Dinner For Two – Review
Dinner For Two – TVOne – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Chris prepares a soul food meal, pours a glass of wine, and plays a mix CD. Then he hears a knock at the door. It’s his ex Angie. She knows Chris needed her so she came by to help. While he cooks Angie’s favorite meal, the two talk about how they meet at Pierson University in 1992. Chris was awestruck by Angie’s singing voice and beautiful looks. While they eat, they discuss their first breakup over infidelity and how they got back on track. Angie continues to talk hoping it will help Chris stop drinking and get his life back on track. Chris continues to talk because he hopes they will get back together and have his family again. Angie wants him to stop looking at the past and focus on the future. Chris doesn’t see a future anymore and wants to end it all.
This is the serious talk all couples should have before they decide to break up. This couple doesn’t get loud, talk down to each other, or throw things. They have a true heartfelt conversation. Both have messed up in the past and married for a brighter future. As they look back using objects, food, words, they see unfulfilled promises and multiple warning signs. Each college scene is emphasized with wardrobe and technology to put you back in that time period. While each is at fault, they have a hard time accepting those faults. This movie should be used as an instructional video on how to correctly argue. Sit back and watch with your significant other. Have the conversation you have been too proud, too hurt, or too angry to have.
I give it 5 out of 5 stars
It’s alright. People make mistakes – Chris
You know how we do. Whenever you need me, I’ll be there – Angie
You know you are a good guy Chris – Jay
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He’s Watching – Review
He’s Watching – Lifetime – 2 hours and 0 minutes
After a few FaceTime calls, Angela is worried her boyfriend Michael is cheating and she just isn’t sure what to do without proof. Then she looks up from her desk and sees Kyle., her old college boyfriend and famed photographer. He wants help with his financial portfolio and has hired Angela’s company. But only if he can work with Angela. The business meeting evolves into a dinner out and drinks. The two talk about the past and talk about continuing their friendship. However, after Kyle’s art exhibit sparks fly and the two end up in bed. The next morning Angela wakes up to breakfast by Kyle and a voicemail from Michael. Michael’s voicemail is a “first date” anniversary message for Angela that leaves her in tears. She regrets her night with Kyle and breaks it off with the hopes they can just be friends. She is ready to trust Michael and make their relationship work. Kyle won’t ever let that happen.
The story of Kyle and Angela is old and boring. However, Kyle’s backstory holds more promise. He is the Bad Seed all grown up. His ability to weasel his way into Angela’s life is believable and eerie. With just a smile and a camera, he can charm himself into anyone’s life. Another saving grace is Laurie. The comic relief, best friend says all the right things at the right time. Plus she his handy with a gun and a computer. DVR this one and watch it for a rainy day.
I give it 2.5 out of 5 stars
It wasn’t luck, Michael – Angela
I only care what we have now – Michael
Kyle, I only do elevators on the second date – Laurie
I’m glad we can have a different kind of future now – Kyle
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#LethalSoccerMom, #TheArcher, and more – TV Movies
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Lethal Soccer Mom – Review
Lethal Soccer Mom – LMN – 2 hours and 1 minute
Cameron is not happy about moving to a new neighborhood and school but her mother Kate thinks its the best decision for her soccer future. By joining the 4-time state champions – The Wildcats – Cameron will be seen by more college recruits. And Kate believes Cameron has what it takes to join the professional soccer stage. Coach Rhonda agrees with Kate. However, she doesn’t see Cameron as an asset for her team, Rhonda sees her has a hindrance to her daughter Hailey’s future. Rhonda has done everything to improve her daughter’s skills, get her notice, and make her a first string soccer player. So, when Cameron comes to the Wildcats with the hopes of being a starter, Rhonda will lie, cheat, seduce, and attack to end Cameron’s dream and make Hailey a star.
This movie slowly turns up the crazy between each commercial break. But Kate and Cameron make so many mistakes it’s easy for Rhonda to manipulate them. It’s not without saying that Kate doesn’t have some tricks up her sleeve. But she is no match for Rhonda. With all that, there are two sad facts. First, Kate and Rhonda are two sides of the same ‘soccer mom’ coin. Second, Hailey hates soccer. If she loved it and Rhonda was doing all this, it would be understandable. But since she hates it, it makes Rhonda look more like a stage mom than a soccer mom. This is a good one to watch for the bad guy’s manipulation skills.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
I know who you are, obviously – Hailey
I wasn’t worried – Cameron
Just a little friendly advice, you may want to consider laying off the late night snacking – Rhonda
My daughter is a better soccer player than yours and you know it – Kate
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The Archer – Review
The Archer – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Confused, Lauren sits and waits for her day in court while her mother signs papers. Since Lauren defended her friend against an abusive boyfriend, she is a good student, and she has never been in trouble, she is assured that she will walk or get a slap on the wrist. However, the judge thinks she has a volatile temper and needs to spend an undetermined amount of time in a youth correctional facility. Lauren is completely taken aback to the judge’s remarks and sentence as the bailiff take her away. Her first day there, she meets a runner Rebecca, the warden Bob, and the warden’s son Michael. Rebecca thinks Lauren is hiding things but sees she is strong. Bob takes an interest in Lauren because she is an archer like him. He believes he can help her develop her skills while she is locked away. Michael works at the detention center and Lauren notices he has an unhealthy interest in the girls and loves power. Lauren tries to make the best of it until she learns most of the girls are there for minor infractions and sees multiple cases of abuse. But when she learns why the girls are really there, Lauren and Rebecca will go on the run and risk their lives to help others.
Inspired by true events in Pennsylvania, this movie will make you question prisons for profit especially in the cases of children. Lauren is the archetype for a strong female lead. She uses her wits to think herself out to situations and adapts with little hesitation. Another strong aspect of this movie is Lauren’s ability to not become bitter about the past. She was betrayed by a friend whom she was attracted too, she doesn’t let that stop her from protecting or connecting to others. She is like an arrow. She shoots straight even though her start wobbles.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
If that’s what it’s like then I don’t want one – Lauren
You know, when you insult him its like you’re insulting me too – Emily
Do it again – Mike
You’ll need my help, Lauren – Bob
You won’t believe what I found – Rebecca
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Garage Sale Mysteries: Murder in D Minor – Review
Garage Sale Mysteries: Murder in D Minor – HMM – 2 hours and 0 minutes
As Mr. Dietz is dying he decides to get his affairs in order by auctioning off his art collection for charity. Two paintings have caught the eye of Helen. She believes they were stolen during the raid of her home in Nazi Germany. Jen and Dani go there for support but find an interesting piano has been added to the list. The two women want it for their store. After winning their items, Jen and Dani are approached by Jacque. He wants the piano for a client and is willing to pay whatever they want. But Jen refuses to sell and gives the piano to her friend Dean to inspect. When Dean is attacked and the piano is vandalized, Jen wants answers. Those answers will lead to a pre-meditated murder. Jen has to find a killer, Dean’s attacker, and the dark secrets the piano hides.
If you are going to make a movie centered around the Holocaust, say the word Holocaust. It’s not a dirty word, it’s history. With that being said, this movie offers a great mystery along with a spooky nature. With Jacque lurking around every corner and a killer on the loose, Jen must always look over her shoulder. This is a decent addition to the series but it’s not the best.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
I put them in two piles: Pay now and Pay later – Dani
Oh no, I’m done with high school – Jen
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Her Worst Nightmare – Review
Her Worst Nightmare – Lifetime – 2 hours and 3 minutes
Dakota sits in her Advance Psychology of Trauma class with one huge secret. She is an expert on the subject since she was kidnapped and raped for an extended period of time with two other girls. She is focused on living a “normal” life by doing all the things she dreamt of doing while in captivity. She can write amazing papers but she is failing exams. She asks her teacher Dr. Campbell for help but gets a bad vibe. The new TA Max seems nice and offers help. While Addie started on her bad side, she is quickly becoming an ally. So, when items from her horrible past come back to the present, Dakota starts to panic. She knows she is being followed and toyed with but she is not sure by who. Could it be the man who kidnapped her, someone he knows, or a new person in her life? Just when she thought the worst was over, her nightmare comes back for her.
Creepy times creepy. With an opening reminiscent of the Cleveland kidnapping, you know this type of trauma is real and sickening. As Dakota bravely sits in class and speaks up about “imagined fear” being a way of life for half the population, you get a pit in your stomach. Most, thankfully, will never know Dakota’s trauma but her fear is understood. As her past comes back with toys, locked doors, and videotape, you hope this evil person will be found and Dakota will get the ultimate revenge.
I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars
I just wanna be friends. Everybody needs friends – Addie
I’ll study harder. Thanks, Dr. Campbell – Dakota
I figured I owed you that – Cynthia
She needs help – Max
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Season for Love – Review
Season for Love – Hallmark – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Tyler is back in her hometown of Red Rock, Texas, home of the best BBQ in Texas. Her daughter Rosie is excited to come and see her grandmother Jo again. Tyler falls right into step at her mom’s BBQ restaurant but notices the lunch shift is slow. An influx of new BBQ eateries have taken businesses away and times are getting hard for Jo. Tyler wants to help her mother but she reveals that she recently lost her job. She is worried about entering into the annual BBQ contest but Rosie and Jo encourage her to try. She decides to do it for the $25,000 prize. The money will allow Jo to make updates to the restaurant and save her business. Corey has written 3 successful books, has a line of cookware, and restaurants but he misses home. So when his friend Jay asks him to be apart of the BBQ contest, he gladly accepts, without telling his manager Sophia. Sophia has lined up a chance at a TV show, but he wants to go home. She tells him to spend a few days there but he must come back to New York as soon as possible. When Tyler and Corey see each other the old sparks fly. This second chance at love will need to survive a contest, a job offer, and a chance at fame.
While it does follow the Hallmark pattern, it’s still pretty funny. The movie offers a great score and amazing food tips. Try not to get hungry while watching it. While, it’s nice to see both make a sacrifice for love, love is not the only reason. Tyler does it for her daughter and Corey does it for his sanity. This movie is a prime example of how Hallmark can keep up the pattern but still make it fresh and fun to watch. Get comfortable and have some BBQ nearby.
I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars
I know the feeling. I made 2 friends the exact same way – George
You know, for a vegetarian, she sure eats a lot of ribs – Corey
What do I know? I’m just your mother – Jo
You were right. For picking my sauce – Tyler
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#KillerNightShift, #DeadlyShores, and more – TV Reviews
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Killer Night Shift – Review
Killer Night Shift – Lifetime – 2 hours and 3 minutes
Nurse Irene is furious at her shift manager for cutting her hours. She bumps a 37-week pregnant Trisha, to get answers from her shift manager. The manager tells Irene that drugs have gone missing during her hours and they believe she is the culprit. Irene makes a dramatic exit that ends with a one-week suspension. She goes back to Adele and begs for a job until her suspension is up. Adele worries but offers her a job as a home care nurse for Trisha. Trisha was put on bed rest due to placenta previa. With bed rest, Trisha will deliver a healthy baby. But if she exerts herself, she will need a C-section. With a solemn look, Irene agrees. On her first day, Irene lays down the law. She is not a maid, she is a nurse. She will cook, do dishes, and attend to medical needs. Nothing more. Then, there is a knock at the door. It’s Kate. A maternity nurse Trisha met earlier that week; she barges in and takes over. Soon, Kate is there every day and edging Irene out. Irene knows something just isn’t right about Kate. She is too involved. But when Kate learns that Trisha was given the wrong prescription and some of her drugs are missing, Irene is fired. But Irene won’t go away quietly. She knows something is wrong with Kate. And she will find out. Come hell or high water.
This is one to watch and keep saved. With two potential bad guys, you have to consider both a suspect. With Irene’s bad past and Kate’s neediness, it’s easy to see how Trisha is confused. And this movie really picks up where other’s end. Usually, when the husband comes home, it’s to police vehicles, a coroner, and a dead body being wheeled out. But when David comes home, everything looks peaceful. He had no clue Trisha is tied up and begging for her life and the life of her baby from a crazy nurse. This has everything you want and more. While it is a crazy nurse movie (which has been done a million times before) it sparks new interest in the Lifetime genre. This is one to watch. And believe that you will never look at tulips the same way again.
I give it 5 out of 5 stars
No, but this is as sure as I’m gonna be – Trish
I am always nice – Irene
Wow, she’s a real ray of sunshine – Katie
What are we gonna tell her when she asks about the day she was born – David
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Deadly Shores – Review
Deadly Shores – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Anna is happy to walk away from her psychiatrist Dr. Shaw and into her arms of her new husband Richard Palmer. Dr. Shaw believes that Anna is being taken advantage of because she has only known Richard for 3 months and for her sizable inheritance. But Anna believes the good doctor has been taking advantage of her too. So, she gets on a boat to meet Richard at the dock but he is very late picking her up. Once in her new home, Anna learns some interesting things. First, Richard does not like to be disturbed in his office while working. Second, the housekeeper Ms. Argyle is a stickler to the former Mrs. Palmer’s schedule. And the first Mrs. Palmer committed suicide but her body wasn’t found. Only her cane. With this information, strange things start happening around the house. Anna hears knocking, sees shadowy figures, and Richard is starting to become short tempered. She feels like she is losing it. But that is all part of the plan. However, messing with Anna may be the wrong move.
Stick with this film. So are so many characters with questionable motives, you don’t know who to trust. The housekeeper uses jewelry to start an argument between Anna and Richard. Beth is having an affair with Richard. Richard is working with Beth on a disturbing plan. And the townspeople seem to know more than they say. While it takes time for the story to build, it’s worth it for the last 7 minutes. Those few minutes redeem this movie and make it something you need to see.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
Thanks for your concern but I am not your patient anymore -Anna
No, I hate it. Who wants the same thing every day – Richard
Surprised to see you’re still hanging around here. Very surprised – Beth
I hope your right – Carrie
I have a lot of explaining to do – Ms. Argyle
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Hidden Intentions – Review
Hidden Intentions – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
After his wife’s death, David Caldwell is shocked to see her estranged sister Jordyn at his door. He lets her and introduces her to her niece Sophie and nephew Noah. Even though Jordyn and her sister haven’t spoken in 20 years, she wishes they have made up before she died. While Noah is quick to welcome her, Sophie gives her the cold shoulder. Sophie remains this way until her boyfriend Luke breaks up with her with no warning. Jordyn is there for her and counsels her on the breakup. But Sophie still feels something is off about Jordyn. And she is right. The real Jordyn is dead. She was killed by the fake Jordyn who will do anything to get a family.
In the age of social media, DNA testing, and online background check, you will roll your eyes at all the mistakes this family makes the moment they let Jordyn in the door. With so may ignored warnings sign, you want to change the channel to ignore this family’s stupidity. It’s only when Sophie starts to ask questions, you will say “Finally, what took so long”. This one can be skipped because it falls into the Lifetime trap.
I give it 2 out of 5 stars
Family, you never know how much you’re gonna miss it until it’s gone – Jordyn
Thanks for coming, I’m sure mom would be touched – Sophie
Having you hear, reminds me of her – David
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Garage Sale Mysteries: Picture a Murder – Review
Garage Sale Mysteries: Picture a Murder – HMM – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Jen and Dani are asked to price and sell the late Larry’s camera collection. Jen and Dani were recommended by Tony (Larry’s nephew). While looking at the collection, Dani accidentally takes a picture of Jen. So, Jen goes to get the film developed to remove her picture from the roll. When Jen speaks to Tony, he lets her know that he doesn’t believe his uncle’s death was natural causes. Larry was healthy and passed his physical earlier. Jen believes him as soon as the photos are developed. One image has a hand on Larry’s chest with a syringe in the other hand. Jen takes the photo to Detective Frank and gets Larry’s case reopened. With bad business dealings, an affair, and a jealous family member, Jen has a host of characters from which to choose. Of course, she will have to investigate.
Based on the novel series, misdirects, curiosity, and fun are what we watch this series for and you get everything you want plus more (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). Fans should be prepared to get your dose of Dr. Trammel, Frank, and Jason. The three love of Jen’s detective life. Plus it has all the comedy you need hiding within a gem of a mystery for you to solve. Now dedicated fans will be able to see the bad guy coming but don’t ruin it for the newbies. Get the popcorn, wine, and your magnifying glass ready for this next installment in the Garage Sale Mysteries.
I give it 5 out of 5 stars
My bridge collapsed – Dani
I hope you got my good side – Jen
I say any camera with a picture of you in it, is worth double – Jason
Don’t tell Jen – Jason
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My Husband’s Secret Wife – Review
My Husband’s Secret Wife – Lifetime – 2 hours and 3 minutes
Avery happily watched her son Jack play but loses sight of him. When she finally sees him, a person is walking away with him. She chases after him but is stopped by a security officer. When she explained that her child being kidnapped, she sees Alex stopping the kidnapper and saving her son. The kidnapper gets away but Avery finds her Prince Charming. They quickly get married and by a house, much to the chagrin of her sister Kat. Kat believes that Alex is just too perfect especially when he discusses adopting Jack. Kat’s intuition is proven right when Avery sees a text message on Alex’s phone. He is not leaving on a business trip for 2 weeks, he is meeting another woman. After following Alex, she discovers that the other woman is Melanie. A woman who came into her gallery and bought her art a few days ago. Melanie reveals that she is not only Alex’s first wife but she is still his wife. She did leave Alex but they are on the verge of getting back together. The only roadblock is Avery. She tells Avery to step aside or she will move her. Avery comes home to confront Alex. Alex explains that he didn’t divorce Melanie because she is unstable but the marriage is over. Now Avery is in the fight of her life, but who is really on her side?
Keep your eyes open. You have no idea which way is up with this movie. This is one of the few Lifetime movies with multi-dimensional characters. It will leave you wondering who is lying to whom. And you are right. Everyone is lying to everyone. But it’s the long-term planning and the real victim that will leave you saying OMG. Watch when you can devote all your attention to this movie. Missing 5 minutes will leave you lost.
I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars
There’s enough room in this world for us to love everyone babe – Alex
I’m a huge fan of your work. Now – Melanie
We’ll see about that – Avery
Did you? – Kat
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Pearl in Paradise – Review
Pearl in Paradise – Hallmark – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Alex is a brilliant photographer with great ideas but she often misses deadlines. She wants the Creative Director promotion but her boss tells her she has to wow them and be on time. Or someone else will get the job. Alex decides to use the 30th anniversary of the magazine to pitch an idea. The 30th anniversary is represented by pearls. When she looks up pearls, she finds the most famous is a blue pearl in Fiji created by a clam instead of an oyster. She knows of one writer who said he saw it and wrote a book about it. Her boss loves the idea and says if she can get a picture of the blue pearl in time, she is a shoe in for the promotion. Colin was a best-selling writer, years ago. His publisher’s assistant Derrick meets him for coffee. He warns Colin, ‘Write something that sales or we will drop you’. When Derrick learns about the opportunity to work with Alex in Fiji to find the blue pearl, he knows it’s a great marketing strategy for Colin. However, Colin has been keeping a big secret from everyone. He has never been to Fiji or seen the blue pearl. As they go around Fiji and get closer, Colin knows he must confess to Alex. But will his confession make him lose her for good?
This treasure hunt wrapped in a love story is a slight change from the Hallmark brand but not completely. However, it’s a predictable ending that doesn’t require much attention for the leading couple. It’s the people of Fiji with the legends of the blue pearl that truly draw you in. Through their stories and the land, you will be engrossed in the hunt for the blue pearl. So, DVR this movie and save it for a rainy day.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
List of all the deadlines I missed – Alex
That is confidential. I can’t reveal my sources – Colin
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The Last Sharknado: It’s About Time – Review
The Last Sharknado: It’s About Time – Syfy – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Fin lands and looks around for his son Gil. Only to realize he is alone. His son left him a message. They have time traveled to the first Sharknado. However, since you could only go back to a time period once, Gil could not go with his dad. Fin has to use the flux capacitor in Gil’s wings pin and travel at 88 MPH to jump home when he is successful. When he gets out of the car, Fin sees he sees he is surrounded by dinosaurs. As the dodges one, Fin encounters Nova, Brian, and April. A non-robot April but human April. They explain that just as they were about to die, Gil jumped in time and pull them out. They have been waiting for a year for Fin to meet up with them. Now they wait for the next Sharknado with the hope that ending this one will end them all.
So, this review isn’t really about good or bad. Sharknado has gotten a cult following because of its over-the-top nature and being good at being bad. So this review will be based on consistency. While time-traveling makes this over the top, it just didn’t hold the viewers’ interest long enough. The pace of the movie was slow and becomes boring quickly as they entered each time period. While it felt that the time periods should have been more focused on Fin than Nora, they try to make them all relevant to the overall all plot and character development. Even though it comes to a good conclusion for the series and included all the cast members, it just felt dragged out and repeat of the same storyline in each timeline. The final movie should have gotten a lot better but will leave fans disappointed. But pay attention to the homage to Back to the Future and The Princess Bride (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer).
I give it 2 out of 5 stars
You came back for me – April
I know you have been eaten by a lot of sharks and you’ve survived. But I’ve actually been eaten and pooped out by a lot of dinosaurs because they couldn’t digest me. its been rough – Brian
I’m gonna need a bigger chainsaw – Fin
Look here, you emotionally derange easy back oven – Skye
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#MarriedToAMurderer, #MyLittleGirlIsGone, and more – TV Reviews
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Married to a Murderer – Review
Married to a Murderer – Lifetime – 2 hours and 2 minutes
Emma and Ted are ready to celebrate their engagement with friends and family. But that’s cut short when her husband’s identical twin brother Frank shows up out of the blue. He is back from his trip and wants to reconnect with Ted. At first, Emma is ok with the two establishing a relationship. When Ted goes out of town, Frank starts giving Emma bad vibes as he goes around their home unannounced in the middle of the night. When she shares her feelings with Ted, he finally lets her in on his secret. Frank wasn’t on a trip. He was in a mental institution. Shocked and dismayed by her husband’s lie by omission, Emma decides to help Frank and make him a part of the family. But Frank and Ted have a lot more secrets to hide.
You have to give this one a chance. Even though it starts off slow and Emma makes typical mistakes, this movie slowly cranks up the eerie. As Frank starts fantasizing about Emma and starts acting on them, you will get a chill up your spine. Another great aspect of this movie is its use of real twins. Most have one actor play both parts and it takes away from the scene. But using real twins helps the actors feed off each other’s emotional and physical cues. Plus this movie ends with one big question.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
Yeah, it’s great to have you here – Ted
Back in town 2 hours and I already ruin your engagement party – Frank
Why didn’t you tell me about your mom’s house – Emma
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My Little Girl is Gone – Review
My Little Girl is Gone – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Stephanie stood in front of all her friends at Karaoke and had the man of her dreams Jameson get down on one knee. She and her partner Lila had their handbag line picked up by a major retailer. And her future stepson Shane is starting to warm up to her. Stephanie feels her life is falling into place. However just days before her wedding, she gets a phone call from a disguised voice. The voice describes what her daughter Caitlyn is wearing, says they grabbed her, and if she wants her daughter back, she must not get married. After a few frantic moments, Stephanie finds Caitlyn and breathes a sigh of relief. She brushes off the incident as a sick prank and gets married. While on her honeymoon, she has a hard time relaxing. She is still worried about her daughter. Her fear is realized when she comes back and Caitlyn is gone. The voice calls her again and says she must sell her company and then divorce her husband or Caitlyn will die. Stephanie suspects everyone but has no idea of the danger that waits for her.
This movie is so different from the Lifetime format. It feels like two movies for the price of one. Just when you think the movie has come to an end, you realized you are only halfway through. Also, you believe you know the kidnapper and you are right. But its the “why” that will leave you saying OMG. This movie is the right step to get out of the typical Lifetime movie. It is a good mystery disguised as a drama. Sit back and enjoy it today.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
I really am. That’s why it’s gonna crush my heart to beat you at this game – Stephanie
It is called the woods honey. Owls, wolves, deer. Also known as wildlife – Jameson
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Garage Sale Mysteries: The Mask Murder – Review
Garage Sale Mysteries: The Mask Murder – HMM – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Dani and Jen are excited to buy storage lockers to fill their store. They find a great locker with rare death masks inside. After a long look around, Jen notices it looks like a store’s inventory. She remembered a man arguing with the manager before the auction. She worries these are his items. But the feeling of worry is put aside when a body is discovered inside another locker next to her’s. Jen is quickly on the case. Jen discovers the victim is Carmen Day. A young, bright student who worked at the storage facility. While delving into her life, Jen realizes that one of the death masks she found in her storage locker looks like Carmen. With lies, videotape, and one sketchy manager, Jen knows she must find Carmen’s killer ASAP.
In true form, Garage Sales Mysteries delivers again. Its hard to figure out a suspect because everyone around Carmen has an ulterior motive and lies constantly. Based on the novels, this movie will keep you guessing and checking off suspects every step of the way (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). And longtime fans will get a hilarious subplot and Dr. Trammel. So put the kids to bed and get ready for another great installment in the Garage Series franchise.
I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars
I don’t need to ask her permission – Steve
Why would a dead woman be smelling – Dani
Welcome to Grand Central Station – Jen
How far do you think I can kick this bucket – Dr. Tramell
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Babysitter’s Nightmare – Review
Babysitter’s Nightmare – Lifetime – 2 hours and 2 minutes
Nurse Daphne is devasted after losing a young patient and her job due to an untouchable doctor’s negligence. Her friend and fellow nurse Kaci overhear a patient was in need of a babysitter with nursing skills. So she mentioned Daphne needed a job. With a part-time, $300 a day job, Daphne says yes. She meets with Toby and his mom to solidify the job. She is instantly taken by the sweet and loving Toby. She wonders why his mother wanted a nurse and Daphne is informed that Toby is diabetic. Her first night goes well but Daphne swears she sees someone. The next few nights will leave several dead and a mother in pain.
This movie is truly creepy. In addition, it has a lead character that has lost their job, been involved with the death of a patient, broke up with her boyfriend, and threaten a co-worker. So it’s hard to tell who to trust. Anyone could be after her for any reason. So this thriller becomes a suspense movie. A breath of fresh air is young Toby. He isn’t bitter, angry, or rude like most kids on Lifetime. He is sweet, charming, and funny. You will instantly fall in love with him. And Kaci is the best friend everyone deserves. Watch this one with some of your lights on.
I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars
It was an honest mistake – Daphne
Like do you want anchovies on your tombstone – Kaci
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Love at Sea – Review
Love at Sea – Hallmark – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Olivia’s boyfriend left her stunned. He opened a position to head Olivia’s department and didn’t consider her for the job. She can’t believe that the board of directors is squeezing out anyone connected to Olivia’s late dad, the owner. Now, Olivia wants to give 100% to her business and prove she can make it on her own. Tony is ready to become the youngest cruise director but he must prove himself to the big bosses. If he doesn’t make a good impression during the next cruise, he won’t be promoted. When Olivia and Tony meet they both think the other one needs an attitude adjustment. Tony thinks Olivia is too rigid. Olivia thinks that Tony isn’t following the instruction she provided in a 5-inch binder. It will take Murphy’s Law to bring these two together.
Based on Love on the Lido Deck by Barbara Oliverio, this aquatic romance is funny and easy to watch (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). While you know the ending, there is enough chaos to keep you interested. When Olivia loses her star or Tony loses control over an event, you want to see how they will work through it together. Even with an ex-boyfriend, gorgeous mystery woman, and a best friend aboard, Tony and Olivia work through it together and fall in love.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
Thank you for that hardy welcome – Olivia
I guess you’re gonna have to start respecting me now – Tony
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#HomecomingRevenge, #FreakyFriday, and more – TV Reviews
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Homecoming Revenge – Review
Homecoming Revenge – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Andrea feels a disconnect between herself and her husband because she can’t get pregnant. She tries to convince him that adoption is the answer but he has already moved on. After getting divorce papers, Andrea hits him in the head, killing him. As she calls the police with fake tears, she sees the 20th high school reunion flyer in her trash. She thinks back on the day Isabel stole homecoming queen, pushed her off the stage, and killed her future. She decides to find Isabel and ruin her life one object at a time.
It’s not hard to see where this is going within the first five minutes. So Isabel’s naivete comes off as sad and desperate. But seeing how Andrea gets others to join in and use simple phone calls to destroy Isabel’s whole life is interesting. The story offers nothing else to the viewer. Only watch if you are as desperate as Isabel.
I give it 2 out of 5 stars
I just feel bad for her – Isabel
I thought we were friends – Andrea
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Disney’s Freaky Friday – Review
Disney’s Freaky Friday – Disney Channel – 1 hour and 37 minutes
Ellie is a grungy teen that is close to failing the 10th grade due to consistent truancy. She is tired of her mother Katherine constantly hovering and bossing her around. She would love to be an adult of for a day to have control over her entire life. Katherine has taken the daunting task of catering her own wedding. Her marriage is a day away and she is being featured in a magazine. If the article goes well, her business will go up. However, if it goes bad or doesn’t happen at all, she could lose the house. She wishes Ellie knew how good she had it as a carefree teen. Ellie wants to attend a scavenger hunt on the day of her mother’s wedding but her mother gives a resounding NO. As the two argue, they both grab hold of an hourglass and, in a flash, they switch bodies. Now, Katherine has to navigate Ellie’s high school life. While Ellie navigates Katherine’s career. However, switching back won’t be easy. During the first switch, the hourglass broke. Ellie remembers her late father gave one to her and Katherine. But Katherine sold it to an antique shop, which is now closed. They must find the hourglass to change back before Ellie (as her mom) marries her stepdad.
With so many version of this movie, this movie must add something new in order to draw old and new fans to the movie (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). This version adds 6 songs to the plot and nothing else. The overall plot, characters, and scenery are all the same. This version is for new fans only. Everyone else can skip it.
I give it 2 out of 5 stars
I wish you’d change – Ellie
The answer is NO – Katherine
There you are. Every magician needs an assistant – Fletcher
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Garage Sale Mysteries: The Pandora’s Box Murders – Review
Garage Sale Mysteries: The Pandora’s Box Murders – HMM – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Dani and Jen are the main focus of an antique reality TV show. Although Dani is ready for her close up, Jen is a bit uncomfortable with the exaggerations. During a break from filming, Tamara comes into the store and asks for information on her mother-in-law Elizabeth’s Pandora’s box. Pandora boxes are notorious for destroying their contents if the puzzle is solved incorrectly. Tamara worries she could destroy something valuable. So she asks Jen to user her expertise to solve the puzzle. Jen agrees and starts filming. After the day is done, Jen looks for the box and it’s missing. When Jen finds the box, Tamara will be dead, Elizabeth’s cause of death will be questioned, and Jen will be looking down the barrel of a gun.
Based on the book series, this mystery is just as complex as the Pandora’s box (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). As Jen gets a step closer to finding Tamara’s killer, she learns more about the victim and the box. Both objects are clouding Jen’s judgment of the situation. This confusion is a new element to Jen’s character and makes for a compelling storyline about the murder. As always, it’s funny to see people to “stay out of it” and “leave it to the police”. Jen will never stop finding justice.
I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars
Cars can be replaced. Family can’t – Jason
I know all her lines – Dani
It’s my last chance at a smoking body – Tramell
My arrival cuts that short – Jen
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A Sister’s Secret – Review
A Sister’s Secret – Lifetime – 2 hours and 3 minutes
Identical twins, Callie and Elizabeth have been switching places since they were little. The only person who could ever tell them apart was their Aunt Rose. While Rose laughs at the girls switch, she warns them of the trouble it could cause in the future. Years later, Callie is married to Grady and they have two children. Yet she dreams of Elizabeth’s life. Elizabeth works for a high power investor and lives in the big city with an even bigger loft. She hates coming home to an empty apartment and wishes she could have a family like Callie. On their birthday, the two meet up and decide to switch. They will live each other’s lives for one week and switch back. Callie loves living the big city life but Elizabeth worries they will be discovered. Elizabeth asks to switch back early but Callie is furious and decides against it. Moments later, Callie is killed by a hit and run. Elizabeth gets the news and can’t muster up the courage to tell Grady about the switch. When Rose sees Elizabeth as Callie she pleads with her to tell Grady and the children the truth. But a Detective tells her to keep quiet. She believes the hit-and-run was not an accident and Callie’s killer may learn that he killed the wrong woman and go after her. This deadly switch will have an unlikely ending with several people dead.
Inspired by real events, the ending wrap-up gives a new definition to “Happily Ever After”. When viewers see the “grass is greener” set up, you want to believe you know how the story will go. Until Callie is hit by the car. That moment will leave you in complete shock. Also, as Elizabeth lives Callie’s life, she goes too far. Now protecting herself from murders becomes projecting herself from the wrath of Grady. This twist in the story is shocking and draws the viewer into the story. So watch when you can devote your time.
I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars
She’s at it again, pretending to be me – Elizabeth
I’m trying – Callie
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A Summer To Remember – Review
A Summer To Remember – Hallmark – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Dr. Jessica is maxed out. Her best friend is 3 weeks away from giving birth, she is a single parent, and she is up for a promotion. While living with her daughter Ava, Jessica can’t seem to unplug. They both need this trip to Fiji. After a little time together, Jessica eloped with Greg (Ava’s father) and got married in Fiji. So, Fiji holds a special place in Jessica’s heart. They always believed they would come back after graduation and start a new life. But before Greg died, he made Jessica promise she would take Ava to Fiji one day. Now, Jessica is fulfilling that promise. After a few hours there, Ava and Jessica create a challenge for each other. Ava must put down her camera and Jessica must give up her phone. Jessica finally pays attention to the world around her and twice, love knocks at her door. Will she answer it for Will or Dr. Trevor?
While this is a typical Hallmark movie, it just feels like the overall plot is missing. This movie doesn’t feel like a movie. It feels more like a part of a series. The overall story felt incomplete and devoid of true emotions. Hallmark must understand that new scenery to an old storyline isn’t enough to keep a viewers’ interests. If you are determined to use the same plot, at least make it funny or add more drama to the storyline.
I give it 1 out of 5 stars
Will, the co-owner, works better – Will
You said it – Ava
He’s got it – Jessica
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#WeBelongTogether, #TheWrongCruise, and more – TV Reviews
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We Belong Together – Review
We Belong Together – BET – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Professor Thomas’s life is looking up. He got his 90-day chip, his visits with his daughter no longer have to be supervised, and he is starting a new job. He plans to continue moving forward. But days later, his TA Lesley is murdered. He contemplates drinking however he decides against it. Then, his student Tracy walks into his office. She is grateful Thomas saved her life and helped her get a job. Then she informs Thomas she is in a bind. Lesley was helping her get to and from to work. Now she has no one and could lose her job. Thomas offers to help her. On a ride home, Tracy makes her intentions know. She wants Thomas. He fights her off once but gives in the next day. This bad decision will lead to a car crash, sexy photos, and a kidnapping. Thomas will have to fight to keep it all together.
This movie does get crazy in the first 30 minutes but it uses some time to get into each characters’ backstory. You will understand the motivation behind Thomas’s drinking and his wife’s apprehension. Now, as the viewer, you can see the horrible rabbit hole Thomas is falling into and you will yell at the screen for his stupid mistakes. Even as Tracy describes herself as his serpent, he keeps falling into her trap. However, doing the most crucial part, the backing track overpowers the dialog. While it adds to the moment, you almost miss the moment. Even though the plot is not new for a Lifetime watcher, you should keep watching for the big reveal at the end. It will make everything worth it.
I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars
I’m surprised you went through with everything this time – Megan
I think you should look both ways when you cross. It’s a good thing – Thomas
I’m being your serpent in the tree – Tracy
Dad, why did she say she was my stepmom – Britney
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The Wrong Cruise – Review
The Wrong Cruise – Lifetime – 2 hours and 2 minutes
Clarie gets an email advertising Mexican cruises and decides to book it for her and her daughter Skylar. Nevertheless, Skylar is still acting out in school and is one more infraction close to expulsion. Claire knows Skylar is acting out because her father died. The two were extremely close and she isn’t coping. While Claire doesn’t believe she has earned the trip, she wants to keep an eye on Skylar. As they board the cruise the two women are helped by a stranger that introduces him as Dante. Later, Dante and Claire have a romantic dinner. Meanwhile, Skylar meets Rico and they hit it off. When they dock on their first excursion, Claire gets on Dante’s personal boat and Skylar explores the area with Rico. By nightfall, Claire and Skylar will miss their boat because they are knocked out by drugs. Claire doesn’t know that Dante sent the initial email as a trojan horse. He knows Claire has a lot of money and he wants it all. Or he will kill them both.
So, “Don’t talk to the handsome stranger” is a known lesson for Lifetime movies. At that moment Claire notices Dante, you know this is going to be bad. You start drumming your fingers until Dante shows his true colors. Also, using music to replace the gunshot is a bad idea. It takes away from the essence of the criminal act. Either play the shot or don’t use guns. Now with everything going on in this movie, it’s the subplot between Rico and Skylar that really get your attention. You never know what Rico’s story is until the end. Also, the women’s strength to fight back is refreshing in a Lifetime film. Only watch this if you need 2 hours to kill and can give it your full attention.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
Would it matter – Skylar
Say it with me. I will not be stupid in Mexico – Claire
I’m sorry. I’m sorry. I’m so sorry – Rico
I think you drank too much – Dante
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A Father’s Nightmare – Review
A Father’s Nightmare – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Lisa doesn’t want to go to college or gymnastics because she can’t imagine doing it without her mother by her side. However, her father has other plans. He asks her to do it for one year. If she doesn’t like it, she can come home. He just doesn’t want her to lose her full-ride gymnastics scholarship. On her first day, she learns she won’t be rooming with her best friend Katie, Katie is rooming with her enemy Sasha, and she has lost her edge in gymnastics. And if that’s not bad enough, her new roommate is a 25-year-old freshman named Vanessa. Lisa constantly blows Vanessa off until she makes a public faux pas. Out of guilt, she invites Vanessa to eat lunch with her, Katie, and Sasha. Vanessa is excited but for all the wrong reasons. Vanessa just got out of a mental institution. She convinced her boyfriend to attempt suicide by secretly sabotaging him into a depression. And Vanessa plans on doing the same thing to Lisa.
Vanessa is a bad guy to cheer for from beginning to end. Her evil and conniving ways are just tempting and a joy to watch. It’s fascinating to see how she is able to break down Lisa’s will. With just a few sly comments, some kind words, and some rumors, Vanessa is able to weave herself in Lisa’s life and tear it apart. However, Lisa’s father can see the truth behind Vanessa’s demeanor. Now a seasoned Lifetimer can figure out why she is doing this, so that reveal is not a big deal. However, discovering her mother is a bigger shock. So DVR and watch on a rainy day.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
You’re right. Have you ever been strangled – Vanessa
You know who’d understand, Mom – Lisa
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Morning Show Mysteries: Murder on the Menu – Review
Morning Show Mysteries: Murder on the Menu – HMM – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Billie is excited to introduce chef Primo on her show Wake Up West Coast. Nevertheless, when the show is done, Billie is shocked by Lucy’s scream. Billie runs to check on Lucy and sees a dead woman in Primo’s trunk. Primo is immediately under a cloud of suspicion with police, but Billie just has a gut feeling he didn’t do it. Billie goes home to figure things out but finds her home to be ransacked and robbed. The culprit only left behind packets of nicotine gum. The next morning, Gretchen asks Billie to do a story on Primo with Det. Bower. On TV, Bower releases incriminating knowledge about Primo and the crime. First, the trunk victim’s name was Jessica. And Jessica was friends with Rose – Primo’s ex-fiance. And to make matters worst, Rose was murdered and Primo was the #1 suspect. It will take a lot of disentangling for Billie to solve this murder.
Based on the Morning Show Murder novels, this movie will make your head spin (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). There are murders within murders, subplots within subplots, and new characters every minute. So know that when you watch this movie, you must watch it twice to get it all figured out. And even if you believe you know the killer, you must watch until the last second. It’s the only way to know what is truly going on in this movie. If this is the future of the Morning Show series, Hallmark fans are in for some great movies. Watch this today.
I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars
Show of hands, who think she’s going be here by the end of the day – Phil
I never even thought about it – Billie
I don’t need a spy cam, I have ears – Cassandra
Will you do me a favor? No more exposés – Ian
You know, the more famous you are, the less you work – primo
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Down For Whatever – Review
Down For Whatever – TV One – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Seeing her husband Michael with his family, Dr. Tracy starts to consider looking for her biological parents. Even though her husband believes its a waste of time, she decides to do it. The next day, Det. Michael is sitting at a cafe with his partner. He leaves for a moment and his partner is shot multiple times by two women. After an investigation, Michael discovered his partner was shot by Denise and Sonya Brown, also known as The Brown Sisters. The ladies are on the run and are leaving a trail of bodies behind them. Michael is determined to find them and make them pay. Once the Brown Sister’s social worker, Ruth, hears what the girls have done, she finds Tracy. She tells Tracy that Sonya and Denise are her biological sisters. And Ruth wants Tracy to make a plea for them to turn themselves in before they are killed. Tracy is disgusted at the thought that her husband’s partner’s killers are her sisters. He dismisses it until she finds out one of them has been shot. Now, she is determined to help them. And Tracy will prove she is Down For Whatever.
This movie will keep you in your seat with your mouth open from beginning to end. While the story of the Brown Sisters unravels quickly to keep you engaged, the story of Tracy is at a slow but manageable pace. And just when you feel relief, a hard truth about the Brown Sisters is exposed. The truth will leave you heartbroken and you will gain compassion for the girls. With all the strong emotions displayed in this film, you are still given some quips that will make you laugh. This is a movie with all the strength, heart, and truth of Set It Off (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). Watch it now, record it for later, and watch it again.
I give it 5 out of 5 stars
Your life – Brown Sisters
Baby, when did your hospital become a psychiatric ward – Michael
I am not kin to these girls – Tracy
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