TV One
#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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#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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#SnowedInnChristmas, #StalkedByMyEx, and more – TV Reviews
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Snowed-Inn Christmas – Review
Snowed-Inn Christmas – Lifetime – 2 hours and 2 minutes
Kevin is a fly by the seat, laid back, extreme stunts writer. He writes about the crazy adventures people can do on vacation. Jenna is an organized, by the book, relaxed writer. She likes to write about the thing people can do to relax during a vacation stay. As magazine sales are going down, their magazine has decided to generate more internet traffic to the site. To get a better idea of what the readers want, their boss decides to send them to a vacation site together. Whoever gets the most clicks can keep their job, the other needs to hope for a Christmas miracle. Nonetheless, when their flight has to make an emergency landing, the two are stuck in a small home with the keepers. They start to get pulled closer with a little Christmas magic. But will the job prevail?
Sigh, as funny as this movie can be, it still doesn’t hold your interest. You just don’t get invested enough in the characters to care how it ended. This is due to the fact that you know exactly how it will end. This movie belongs on the predictable Hallmark channel, not the Lifetime network.
I give it 1 out of 5 stars
Does Kelly Kapowski count – Kevin
You haven’t packed yet – Jenna
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Stalked by My Ex – Review
Stalked by My Ex – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Olivia has been secretly writing to her father Sam in prison. She sends him drawings of the two together and wonders what would have been like if he didn’t leave her life 10 years ago. Sam reveals that he will be released soon due to overcrowding and good behavior. When her mother hears this, she is on high alert and decides to leave LA and go back to her small town roots. After leaving, Sam goes to find them and is furious he can’t. So he will do everything to find them and get Olivia back. And with the help of jealousy and the internet, they will be face to face soon.
This movie just doesn’t grab your attention. It just felt like part of the plot was empty and this came off as another domestic violence story. Accept this was everything after the arrest. It was just missing a spark that kept the viewers’ interest. This movie can be skipped.
I give it 1 out of 5 stars
It’s really not that exciting – Alexis
I’m not leaving without a piece of chocolate cake – Bryan
Did you tell her we spoke – Sam
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Karen Kingsbury’s Maggie’s Christmas Miracle – Review
Karen Kingsbury’s Maggie’s Christmas Miracle – HMM – 2 hours and 0 minutes
20 years ago, Maggie played in the snow with her friend. She had no idea of what awaited her at home. Her father left the family on Christmas Eve and never came back. Now she is a mother of one, divorced, and a divorce lawyer. 3 years ago her husband left her 1 week before Christmas. She sees the holiday is nothing but heartbreak and pain. But in a small corner of his room, Maggie’s son Jordan is writing a letter to God. He asks a few questions about nature. Although, he asked God if all moms are sad and if he could give his mom love. Out of the mouths of babes and into God’s ear, Jordan will get his wish.
Based on the novel Maggie’s Miracle by Karen Kingsbury, this movie will make you misty-eyed (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). As Jordan keeps writing letters hoping to make his mom happy, you reflect on your own family. The element that sets this movie apart is you know exactly why Maggie doesn’t like the holiday. There is no big reveal 5 minutes before the end, you know from the beginning. And there is an interesting love triangle. So you have the added mystery of determining if Maggie will make the safe choice or the honest choice.
I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars
You think only bad things happen to babies – Maggie
Christmas every day of the year, that’s my kind of world – Casey
That was so cool. It was like I was being swallowed by trees. Can I do it again – Jordan
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A Royal Christmas Ball – Review
A Royal Christmas Ball – ION – 2 hours and 0 minutes
This is a story about how a prince found his princess, again. Alison and Charles met at a college party and fell in love. Then, a woman came to Alison’s dorm and told her Charles was a prince and a commoner would never be allowed to be a princess. She instructed Alison to write Charles a break-up letter. Feeling lied to and betrayed, Alison wrote the letter and never wanted to see him again. Charles tried several times to contact her but after hearing nothing from Alison, he went through with his arranged marriage. Now, seventeen years later, Charles is a widower and still in love with Alison. While in America to take care of political duties, he decides to look her up and find her. But Alison isn’t all he finds.
This is a sweet story but the subplot of the two best friends deserves its own movie. While it was a good twist on a Cinderella story, it was uninspired and fell flat. It feels more like a filler movie for the holiday line up. It’s predictable and with extremely little real-world conflict. This movie is nothing more than background noise. Come for the plot, and be entertained by the subplot.
I give it 2 out of 5 stars
How am I? What are you doing here? – Alison
Well, technically, I’m the King now – Charles
I just want to make a good impression – Lily
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Sharing Christmas – Review
Sharing Christmas – Hallmark – 2 hours and 0 minutes
With her parents retiring, Stephanie is set on keeping their traditions and run the Christmas Shop just the way they did. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Then she gets a letter in the mail from her landlord. The lease is being terminated. The owner has sold the building to a developer and all the month to month leases will end to make room for high-end condos. Maggie has no idea what to do to save her parents’ shop. Mike is a real estate agent who was given the biggest job of his career. If he does well, he will get his long-awaited promotion. To celebrate, his family goes out to eat and he stops at the Christmas Shop. Stephanie purges her feelings to Mike and he tells her to fight. The next day, Mike’s boss Helen takes him to his new real estate job. He is shocked to learn his company is kicking out Stephanie. With his feelings for her growing, Mike will do anything to help her but it could cost him his job.
Oh, can the Christmas Shop be real? It sounds and smells wonderful. And the handmade ornaments are a dream come true. This story is unique because when Mike learns the truth, he tries anything he can to fix it. He never hides the truth from Stephanie, he lends her a hand and tries to persuade Helen to change her mind. As he works in the store, Mike grasps how important this shop is to the community. DVR and watch with cocoa or hot apple cider with a cinnamon stick.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
And give up being Uncle Mike, not a chance – Mike
Guys do me a favor and don’t tell my parents – Stephanie
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You Can’t Fight Christmas – Review
You Can’t Fight Christmas – TVOne – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Lesley Major of Major Design is designing the yearly Christmas themed entrance to the Chesterton hotel again. And she promises to make it bigger and better. The Christmas time is one of the biggest draws and money makers for the hotel. But when Millicent and Edmund go over the books, they determine that Christmas revenue does not make up for the hotel’s losses. They want to remove Christmas, rebrand the hotel, and bring in new investors. When Lesley gets wind of the news she is disgusted. She liked Edmund and thought he wanted to continue the family hotel business. She will lose her biggest client and a man she is grown fond of to another woman. Will she fight to get him and her job back? It’s time for Lesley to complete the circle of life and delegate to get the holidays back.
This is a funny movie that will give you deja vu if you saw Miss Me This Christmas. Two scenes are repeated but great for character development. This movie gives you a plethora of characters with an uptight Millicent, a ride-or-die Belinda, and a tough Kevin. This is a good one to record and keep on your DVR for later. Also, you will want friends like Kevin and Belinda.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
I’m telling you, Lesley. It’s a union rule – Jasper
Can we keep the ugly on our sweaters, it’s Christmas – Lesley
Not delete, just edit – Millicent
And they say its the most wonderful time of the year – Edmund
I’ll leave you a fifty on the nightstand – Belinda
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The Christmas Cottage – Review
The Christmas Cottage – Hallmark – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Ava has always believed her family’s cottage was magical. For generations, her family has gotten married on Christmas Eve and spend their wedding night at the Christmas Cottage. Every couple that followed the tradition had a marriage that lasts. So, of course, Ava wanted her wedding to follow suit. She decides to have her best friend Lacey as her maid of honor. Lacey loves order and contemporary artistic choices. She wants to make sure everything is perfect. But Ava’s brother Ean wants to follow the family’s traditions of color and disorganization. The two butt heads when decorating the cottage, not only because of style choice but due to a bitter break up. Lacey and Ean dated, but when she took an internship, he felt like she was putting her career ahead of the relationship. However, when he took a job overseas without informing her, she felt he wasn’t serious about putting down roots with her. After a big snowfall, the two are trapped in the cottage. Ava hopes the cottage magic rubbed off, but Lacey’s boyfriend Roger will put a kink in the plan.
Based on the novel The Christmas Cottage by Samantha Chase, this is a sweet love story about focusing on what’s really important (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). However, these theme is not unique to Christmas or Hallmark films. This movie just doesn’t stand out in the saturated Christmas line up. It does have its funny moments as Lacey and Ean trade shots at each other but everything else is predictable. Watch if you have time, but don’t open up the wine.
I give it 2.5 out of 5 stars
Have I ever let you down – Lacey
You sure you don’t want to YouTube it – Ean
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Runaway Christmas Bride – Review
Runaway Christmas Bride – ION – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Kate instantly has regrets on her wedding day and has to greet her family and friends after saying ‘I Do’. That is until she learns the truth from her groom Alex. On his wedding day, he got his inheritance of $2,000,000. He wasn’t allowed to get it until he got married and could not tell the bride until after the wedding. Now he is free of his father and can live his life the way he wants. Kate asks him one question: Did you marry me for love or for money. He hesitates to answer and she runs. She runs to their honeymoon suite without any money or credit cards. She gets help from some frat guys to get into the hotel room and gets comfortable. Soon, she has the attention of the hotel medic and the manager. And much to the chagrin of Becca (manager), she starts to date Jason (medic) but never tells him she is married. Soon Alex, his parents, and her parents are all at the hotel. But when she agrees to keep the marriage going for the money, will she lose Jason.
This is a “what else can go wrong” type of movie. It’s funny and has a lot of cringe-worthy moments. It stands out from the typical holiday movie with a good family gripe fest. However, the green screens are horrifically distracting. It’s not evident why these choices were made but it took away from the strong script and great characters. When this movie sets itself apart during the holiday season, bad green screen choices and toupees just take away from it. If you don’t mind the distractions, watch it. Otherwise, leave it on the back burner.
I give it 2.5 out of 5 stars
Alex, did you marry me for love or this money – Kate
I don’t. Not that one – Jason
I’m here plus two sets of parents. I’m so sorry. Where are you? – Jess
Call room service and order a bottle of Christmas cheer. I need a drink – Rick
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Christmas Encore – Review
Christmas Encore – HMM – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Charlotte is a struggling actress and part-time waitress. She has continued her father’s dream of making it big. In the past, she had an opportunity to make it big but her audition partner/friend Julian ab-libbed some lines and left her looking like a fool. He got the part on a major TV show and she is still trying to find any work available. When her college roommate comes to town, she offers Charlotte a job as an event coordinator for her company. Charlotte feels like getting a 9 to 5 is giving up but she needs the money. She decides to take the job but auditions for a play one last time. The theater is putting together a play for “A Christmas Carol” but they want a twist for it. Realizing she is too old or too young for all the parts, Charlotte decides to be Scrooge. But when she walks in, she is informed the director is Julian. She leaves the stage. He begs her to come back and after careful consideration she does, auditions, and gets the part. She believes this is her big break until the owner of the theater decides to get rid of it. Charlotte and Julian decided to fight for what they believe in, the arts and each other.
The love story is a snooze fest because you know it’s going to happen. In Hallmark, the more people argue, the more likely they will end up together. You watch because you want to see Charlotte’s character develop and blossom into an actress. She will be making her and her father’s dream come true. It’s easy to relate to Charlotte because we have all felt like giving up when we were so close to a dream. You cheer for her to act in her career-making scene. Also, you hope Julian can keep the theater open for future actors and actresses to come. So DVR and watch when you need to kill 2 hours but don’t cancel plans.
I give it 2.5 out of 5 stars
I believe happiness is a journey, not a destination – Charlotte
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Fatal Vision – Review
Fatal Vision – ID – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Joe McGinniss has hit a rough patch in his writing career. He can’t finish his books and no one wants to publish his articles. So when he gets a call from Jeffery MacDonald, also know as the Green Beret Killer, Joe quickly goes to see him. Jeffery discloses he wants Joe to follow him during his trial and write a book about who he is and what really happened to his family. Jeffery will give Joe 100% access to his life, home, and courtroom proceedings. Jeffery hopes this will enlighten others to his plight, absolve him, and find the true killers. As Joe delves into Jeffery’s life, he starts to see the monster within. After interview Jeffery’s in-laws, looking at the evidence, and living with Jeffery, Joe will write a book that will have an effect on the case, even today.
Leading up to the novel Fatal Vision: A True Crime Classic by Joe McGinniss, the viewer must keep in mind that this is only told from Joe’s point of view. It is hard to believe a man would kill his pregnant wife and 2 young children over an argument. While they give a very convincing tale of events, you are still left to wonder if it really happened that way. After you hear the crime scene was out of order, the evidence was mishandled, the samples were taken from the victims after the funeral, and the photos were blurry, it’s hard to nail down what is up and what is down. The fact that remains true is 3 people and 1 unborn child are gone. One fact that was left out is the other trials that resulted in favor for Jeffery. For a truly balanced movie, that needs to be seen too.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
It’s not a story. It’s what happened. It’s the truth – Jeffery
No one wants to believe a father could do that – Joe
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#ChristmasinMississippi, #YouKilledMyMother, and more – TV Reviews
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Christmas in Mississippi – Review
Christmas in Mississippi – Lifetime – 2 hours and 2 minutes
Photographer Holly is finally off the road and back home in Mississippi for Christmas. She enjoys all the fanfare around the holidays so she joins the Winter Fair decorating committee. She is surprised to learn that her ex Mike is the supervisor. He gives her an assignment of setting up a bake stand and she tries to ignore him. Everyone in town, including her mother, tries to tell her that Mike isn’t the same man who broke her heart. Since watching his nephew for his brother overseas, Mike has grown up a lot. When Holly starts to let her guard down, a phone call could derail all her plans for a future with Mike.
Ok, so this movie feels like there wasn’t enough room on the Hallmark Channel for it. The actors are trying their best but the story is slow and uninspired. It’s the typical holiday movie with the typical ending but with a splash of ‘hurricane’ and a photo. So watch if you have time, but you aren’t missing much. However, in the last 15 minutes, they throw in a soldier’s homecoming, a Santa, and a light show to make it interesting. So watch if you have the time, but it isn’t essential.
I give it 2 out of 5 stars
You gotta be kidding me – Holly
Did I forget to mention that – Caroline
He told me that anything worth doing is worth doing right – Jack
You are the best. I’m just the luckiest girl in the world – Betty
Let’s call a truce. Peace on earth, goodwill towards exes – Mike
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You Killed My Mother – Review
You Killed My Mother – Lifetime – 2 hours and 1 minute
Joanna sat in a waiting room to hear if her mother would live or die. Nurse Lynn tells her that an emergency liver transplant has been rejected by Dr. Miriam’s board due to her mother chronic alcoholism. She panics, holds a knife to Lynn’s throat, and threatens to kill her if she doesn’t save her mom. Two years later, Joanna is almost done serving her time in a mental institution and her Aunt Molly is glad to be there for her. Joanna promises to be on her best behavior but Molly has no clue who Joanna really is. With knowledge from her dad, help from her boyfriend, and quiet patience, Joanna will seek revenge on Miriam, Lynn, and anyone else in her way. Her way into their lives is an online romance with Bobby, Miriam’s son.
Root for Joanna. That is the best way to enjoy this film. The people around her are so naive and absent-minded. She is cunning, conniving, and lethal. A perfect combination for a Lifetime movie. Her ability to make traps are uniques and somewhat fun. But it’s those brilliant traps that are her undoing. What makes this movie different is that it peels back Joanna’s psychopathy slowly by showing her past with each of her parents during moments in her revenge. Joanna is smarter than most Lifetime killers but falls into the same trap. That is disappointing.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
Terrific. Next silly question – Joanna
Let’s just say my job sucks sometimes – Miriam
Hostility will get you nowhere – Lynn
You sure are daddy’s little girl, aren’t you – Jimmy
My father doesn’t want anything from me. He’s dead – Bobby
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Disney’s Stuck at Christmas: The Movie – Review
Disney’s Stuck at Christmas: The Movie – Disney Channel – 0 hours and 56 minutes
While Rachel is in France with friends, the Diaz kids are cooking. They realize that Rachel’s job was keeping track of the timer and they don’t know how long to steam the food. So Harley calls the one person who knows: her Abuela. None one wants to call because she will ask if they are coming to visit for the holidays. And each year they have an excuse not to fly to Florida. However, when her Abuela doesn’t ask, Harley feels she has given up on them. So Harley convinces her parents to get last minute tickets to Florida by foregoing the kids big Christmas gift: A Pool Table. The Diaz kids are angry with Harley until she tells them Abuela has given up on them ever visiting. Now the Diaz family are headed to Florida. By plane, car, and bus.
If this sounds like a simple story, then you obviously don’t watch this show. Each step of the way, a hurdle is presented to the family and they overcome it together. While Rachel’s brand of sass is missed, Daphne feels in the gap. And for the first time, we get to see mom ready to fight for her cubs (and show where Daphne gets her spirit). While dad proves that a penny head up isn’t always good luck, Harley will use her knowledge of being a middle kid to help another. The family provides lots of laughs while delivering a heart-warming message about family.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
Here comes the ask. Are you as scrunchy as I am right now – Harley
You mean lie – Tom
That is a ho-ho-horrible idea – Lewie
If anyone wants to be my new BFTF, there’s an opening – Ethan
You gave back our big gift, so maybe lose the judgy – Daphne
We found the sleeper seats – Beast
Oh, he’s got 2 seconds before I’m all up in that – Suzy
And Daphne is your perfect gift – Georgie
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The Spruces & The Pines – Review
The Spruces & The Pines – ION – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Julie Pines is back home for Christmas. She is not surprised to see the family rivalry between them and the Spruces have carried on. Both families own Christmas tree lots and hate stepping one foot on each other’s property. So when Martha asks Julie and Josh Pines to make a bakery delivery to Dave Spruce, they try hard to resist but say yes. During the delivery, Julie spots a man trying to tie a tree to a roof. Being an expert tree tie-er, she is quick to help him and learn his name is Rick. They have an immediate connection. The next day, Rick accidentally, on purpose runs into Julie again at a coffee shop. It’s then that he reveals that his Uncle is Dave Spruce and he is Rick Spruce. Julie runs like she is on fire and calls off any future run-ins. But it’s only a matter of time or prank before they see each other again.
Now did you really think you could get through the holiday season without a Romeo and Juliet movie? There must always be at least one. Now it will take some time to reveal the family’s past rivalry, it won’t take much for this movie to tug at your heartstrings. When Julie and Mr. Pines talk about getting rid of her mother’s things or missing her star, you start to get misty eyed. Don’t worry. You won’t be crying for long when the pranks start. These two families will stop at nothing to get the best of each other. So come for the forbidden love story and say for the pranks.
I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars
Dad is that a naked Christmas tree – Julie
What if I wanted to – Rick
You got to know the difference between a pine and a spruce Rick. It’s our family name – Dave
You want something for your notebook. Write this down. Stay away from the Pines – Holly
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Magical Christmas Ornaments – Review
Magical Christmas Ornaments – HMM – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Marie works for a publisher in the non-fiction sector of a publishing company. She has been extremely successful but wants to move into fiction editing. She decides to practice her speech but is overheard by her neighbor Nate. In a quick conversation, she complains about Nate’s Christmas music not knowing it was him. He jokes with her about the classic but she reveals she has lost her Christmas spirit. But her mom and dad have found a way to fix that. Each day they are sending her ornaments to remember the good times. But these ornaments seem to predict her real life. She is not sure why, but she believes it’s Christmas magic. But when she is asked to work with her ex Carl, she hopes that magic will make him disappear and bring Nate closer.
This movie makes you wonder if there really was magic in Marie’s ornaments. They did a great job of predicting the future. But that wasn’t their only magic. One by one they brought back Marie’s Christmas spirit by reminding her of all her best Christmas memories. Now, there is never any drama between Nate and Carl. Remember this is Hallmark, not Lifetime. The drama is between Carl and Marie, especially when he reveals how much of a snake he truly is by taking credit for her work. While this plot is original, the last 30 minutes are predictable so that can be skipped.
I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars
Magic only exist in fairy tales not in real life – Marie
Could you have been any more vague – Andy
If you have any more special request, you can put them on my door – Nate
Probably off a cliff. Am I right – Clark
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My Christmas Prince – Review
My Christmas Prince – Lifetime – 2 hours and 2 minutes
Samantha has gotten the job offer of her dreams and can’t wait to tell her boyfriend and diplomat, Alex. Though she loves Alex, she is still uncomfortable with his bodyguard being around but never speaking. Alex is surprised to hear that her job will be a 3-year commitment with no summer breaks. He was hoping to travel with her for the summer and take her to his home country. She is shocked by his revelation because whenever she has given him an invite to go to Wyoming, he has always said no. So she goes to Wyoming to clear her head and enjoy a hometown Christmas, but Alex decides to take her offer. Within 5 minutes of being in town, Alex is spotted as a Prince. Samantha had no clue, although it does explain his bodyguard. Alex and Samantha’s picture is taken and online the next day. Soon the Queen hears her son not only has a girlfriend but she is an American commoner from Wyoming. She sends 2 people to straighten out the Prince and remind him of his obligation to his country. But he only wants to be obligated to Samantha.
YES, QUEEN!!! To find someone who can be polite and rude at the same time is magical. Normally when a Lifetime mom is this controlling, someone ends up dead. But since this is a Christmas movie, everyone lives. This queen goes so far flying in her “daughter in law” choice to Wyoming. However, when Samantha’s mother, feels the Prince might not be right for Samantha, the look on Felicia’s face is a pure shock. It is amazing. This movie is one that will make you put down the wine and grab some tea. It’s just too good.
I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars
I’ve fallen in love with some very special parts of it – Alex
Prince Alexander, it’s you. It’s really you – Heidi
What an interesting hobby – Mrs. Logan
you’re serious. Are you serious right now – Samantha
He’s a prince, not an ax murder – Jim
But he’s a prince – Felicia
Jim and Samantha Logan with Alex – Patrick
Then what am I doing in this line? Bye bye – Leann
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Dating Game Killer – Review
Dating Game Killer – ID – 2 hours and 1 minutes
Tammy played on the beach with her best friend Becky when a man came up and asked to take their photo. They posed for a few pictures before Becky’s mother Joanne stepped in and stopped him. He quickly backed off but continued to watch from afar. Later, Tammy’s mom Carol gets a phone call from Tammy’s dance school. They informed her that Tammy never showed up for her first day of practice. Carol alerts the police that her daughter was missing and Joanne & Becky give his description to a sketch artist. That sketch looks like a Dating Game contestant who has been wanted to rape and attempted murder. The ripple of Rodney’s wrath is still being felt today, one photo at a time.
If you aren’t disgusted with the justice system yet, you will be after watching this movie. So many times Rodney was behind bars but he kept getting out due to technicalities, misunderstandings of child molesters, and clerical mistakes. After he rapes and strangles a little girl, he is allowed to be a counselor at an all-girls camp because they didn’t do a background check. Even to this day, his count of victims is an estimation. We may never know. Watch this movie with your children and teach them the warning signs.
I give it 5 out of 5 stars
He knows how to work the system and now he’s on TV – Jim
Women, always trying to control my life – Rodney
Get that pervert behind bars. Who knows what else he has done – Joanne
He’s a monster – Carol
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Christmas at Holly Lodge – Review
Christmas at Holly Lodge – Hallmark – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Sophie and Callie are awaiting their Christmas regulars to the Holly Lodge. Callie believes that the Lodge performs one miracle a year. Sophie only has one miracle in mind: Keeping the lodge. She hasn’t told her friends that she is 6 months behind in payments and may not make it to January. She is doing everything she can to save it, even if it means selling it. It hurts to consider selling it because the land has been in her family for 4 generations and her parents built the lodge. Evan has been given a job. To investigate a lodge for his company’s latest acquisition. They want to buy it and turn it into an exclusive high-end luxury resort. His boss asked him to visit the lodge for a day to see how everything is run and collect information. When Evan gets to the lodge, he makes eye contact with Sophie and falls for her. She feels the attraction too. But when Sophie learns the truth she will shut him out, try to force him out, and keep him close.
This is a funny movie with some Home Alone elements. It performs several holiday miracles as promised while giving each character a backstory when they arrive at the hotel. You have a recent widow, an army wife, newlyweds, and children. Since they come to the Lodge every year, they have their own traditions. You may want to incorporate them into your own family this holiday season. Sheryl Lee Ralph is true to form as a tough-talking and wise woman, but one gift will show her soft side.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
I’ll say it. I love that man – Evan
Can’t let you have Christmas without me – Nadine
Come on down. What am I, a game show host – Sophie
I feel like excited about this – Art
Well let’s not jump to conclusions – Callie
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Miss Me This Christmas – Review
Miss Me This Christmas – TVOne – 2 hours and 0 minutes
After a night of working/partying, Franklin comes home the next morning. His wife Gina, along with her family, checked his Instagram feed and notice he has several pictures with his ex-girlfriend. Since Franklin is unwilling to give an explanation, Gina decides to get back at him by making him jealous and showing up to his job with her ex-boyfriend. After a huge fight, Gina asks for a divorce. During the proceedings, Franklin and Gina realize their divorce will be finalized on their anniversary, Christmas Day. To deal with her pain, Gina stays in the penthouse of the hotel she was married in, parties, and drinks. The suite is owned by her best friend Trish. Trish tells Gina to just live it up and have fun. But when she meets Ulysses, her life will spin out of control and onto a ring.
Sigh. If these two stop playing games and had a grown-up conversation, there would be no needed for a movie. If you get past the childishness, it’s a fun movie to get lost in. Trish is the best friend you need and you don’t need at the same time. She offers the comic relief for the serious and romantic moments in the film. While this is an ok film, it just seems like a jump off point or a backstory for TVOne’s next holiday movie about the hotel, it’s owners, and its’ staff. So watch this movie as a prequel with little depth.
I give it 2.5 out of 5 stars
Make sure you scrub extra hard to get the skank off – Gina
It doesn’t have to be your thing, just his – Trish
I didn’t – Chris
We got married on Christmas – Franklin
‘Thursday’ already go it’s shot this week – Holly
You still fighting, you still love him – Ulysses
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Christmas in Angel Falls – Review
Christmas in Angel Falls – HMM – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Michael is an angel that delivers assignments to other angels and reminds them of the rules. They must offer guidance but not interfere. While he is fond of all the angles he helps, the one who needs him the most his Gabby Messenger (get the pun!). Gabby has a hard time not interfering, so he gives her a special assignment. He sends Gabby to Angel Falls but she isn’t helping just 1 person, she is helping the entire town. Since the factory closed down, a lot of people had to take jobs farther away. Leaving little time for Christmas, so the town just lost it’s Christmas Spirit. People stop buying trees, cancel the pageant, and hire decorators for the store. This breaks Gabby’s heart, so she is ready for the challenge to save the town. But can she help without interfering?
Good story with a great cast. Each townsperson has their own story of loss or sadness around the holidays. So the loss of Christmas spirit isn’t just about a factory it’s about the relationships within the town itself. As Gabby helps, she starts to fall in love with the towns renaissance man and jack of all trades name Jack (yep, that’s his name). Since it’s Hallmark, they had to add a love story between an angel and a human, but don’t worry it won’t end that way.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
Hey, everything will be alright. Don’t give up hope – Gabby
You shouldn’t get involved in things you don’t understand – Michael
It was a very small tree – Jack
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Christmas In Evergreen – Review
Christmas In Evergreen – Hallmark – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Allie is ready to leave the town of Evergreen and move to DC to be closer to her boyfriend Spencer. She has a job and home all lined up she just needs to sign the contracts. She says goodbye to her furry patients and heads to the airport. But first, she stops by her parent restaurant and shakes the magic snow globe. The legend of this town is if you shake the snow globe and wish from the bottom of your heart, your wish will come true. She then heads to the airport, well she tries to head there. Things just keep slowing her down. On the other side of the road, Ryan, along with his daughter Zoe, are driving to the airport to fly to FL and catch a cruise. On their way, Zoe gets hungry and they detour to Evergreen. They hear Allie having car problems and offer to help. Her car starts and she directs them to her parents’ restaurant. Inside, Zoe shakes the show globe and makes a wish. It’s these wish that will lead Zoe and Allie exactly where they want to be, even if it’s where they were.
This story is a sweet love story between Allie and Ryan, but it is also a story of Zoe’s remorse. While Ryan is trying to keep Zoe for being sad and missing her mom, Zoe is trying to remember her and honor her Christmas spirit. Seeing Zoe’s love for Evergreen is wonderful. While the townspeople, the Mayor and Festival organizer, are a bit over the top, they are there for comedic relief. So, walk away and refill your glass during these scenes. Focus on Zoe. Oh, and there is a bonus love triangle in there too.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
I even hear they have an airport now – Allie
Happy moving to DC day – Spencer
Former resident – Ezra
Give me a break – Michelle
Wow, this is what Christmas should look like – Zoe
The festival is going to be great and its all because of you – Ryan
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#BobbiKristina, #WickedMomsClub, and more – TV Reviews
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Bobbi Kristina – Review
Bobbi Kristina – TVOne – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Bobbi Kristina carries a deep guilt after her mother’s passing. She regrets telling her mother she hated her. Also, she almost drowned in the tub before Whitney died and was saved by her mother. She feels like it should have been her. She is now feeling the pressure to continue her moms legacy while trying to forge her own identity. Bobbie Kristina hates being alone so she allows Nick to continue to live with her and be with her every step of the way as her play brother. However, when Nick learns Whitney’s will does not involve him, he becomes focused on helping Bobbi Kristina realize her dreams. Bobbi Kristina’s hole deepens as a friend ODs, her family loses its show, Nick becomes abusive, and her addition grows. Her story will end just as abruptly as her mother’s.
The world knows about her birth and death, but this story focuses on her downward spiral. The people around her tried to warn her about Nick. However, it’s unsure how much they knew about her drug addiction. With flashback, you will see how Nick came to live with Whitney and Bobbi Kristina, her view on her parents’ marriage, and her view on her mother’s addiction. As Bobbie Kristina tried to act and sing for her mother’s legacy in a sad way she completed it. By dying in the same manner her mother died and being involved in a toxic relationship with an abusive man, Bobbie Kristina continued the most painful parts of her mothers legacy. The only question that went unanswered was: How did Nick and Kristina meet. The actors did a magnificent job with portraying Whitney Houston and Bobbie Kristina. Their work didn’t stop at how their counterparts sang but walked, talked, and their micro mannerism. It is obvious that each actor poured 100% of themselves into this project. TV One is having a great start for their movies. Hopefully, it will continue.
I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars
I gotta carry on her legacy – Bobbi Kristina
Me and you against the world, right? – Whitney
I loved your mother, Krissy – Bobby Brown
Sweetheart, what have you done? – Pat
We just having a man to man talk – Gary
You need to go somewhere that feeds you – Taylor
It’s me and you against the world baby – Nick
Wicked Mom’s Club – Review
Wicked Mom’s Club – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Mandy has decided to move with her daughter Riley to a new town. She wants to leave behind her failed marriage and Riley drug addiction. Mandy accompanies Riley on her first day of school to meet the other Gymnastic moms, who are also PTA Members. She meets:
- Olivia – Head of the Gym Moms, Head of the PTA, Mother of Chelsea
- Suki – A Gym Mom, ousted from the group, mother of Hailey
- Colleen – A Gym Mom, PTA member, flirt, married to a police officer
- Reyna – A Gym Mom, PTA member, mother of Taylor
- Ellis – A Gym Dad, not a part of the group, PTA member, contractor
Mandy is invited to join Olivia for drinks at the country club and yoga. While Mandy is not used to being this highly involved in school activities, she welcomes the distraction. Olivia offers to help Mandy with her blog and Mandy confides to her about herself and Riley. Mandy is relieved to have a friend. Soon, her blog skyrockets, she is helping the PTA’s marketing, she connects with Ellis, and Riley is a rising star on the Gymnastics team. Mandy and Riley are both at ease in the new town. But as soon as they rise, they start to fall. Mandy loses endorsement deals for her blog, Riley is suspended, Ellis’s relationship with her is over, and she is in jail. However, Mandy thinks she knows why. Just a few days after moving in, Mandy was warned that she would end up like Ginny, a mom who committed suicide. Then Mandy finds Beyond Good and Evil by Friedrich Nietzsche and finds a photo with Olivia’s eye scratched out (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). Now, can Mandy stop the monster without becoming a monster?
Oh, the shade of it all. Inspired by real events, this movie proves there is no age limit for being a Mean Girl (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). This movie does allow you to sympathize and root for Mandy. While she is warned about Olivia, she wants to give her a chance. But when things fall apart, she is quick to place the blame where it deserves. The rally cry to join forces is heard and championed by all. Once again, to fight a bully, you need to lay all your cards on the table and face them head-on. There is one part that is hard to wrap your head around in this movie. Wasn’t a mom committing suicide enough to make people stand up to Olivia? They should have rallied against Olivia then. It should not take a new mom to stir up the pot. While this movie did juggle a lot of characters and personalities well, more interaction between the wives and husbands would have helped. This is a great movie to watch while sipping your tea.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
I’m not used to so much parental involvement – Mandy
But it’s real – Taylor
Keep your distance from them. It won’t end well. It never does – Suki
He’s well trained – Olivia
I’m a great mom – Ginny
Well I guess that’s on your conscience – Holly
What I would give to put that cute waiter in a doggy bag for later – Colleen
You’re always sorry – Riley
You’re just jealous because I have a real friend – Chelsea
Your kid’s happy, you’re happy. I know that – Ellis
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All of My Heart: Inn Love – Review
All of My Heart: Inn Love – Hallmark – 2 hours and 0 minutes
With a few days until the festivities, Brian is trying to keep Jenny calm. There is so much work to do before the Inn opens. When one thing is fixed, 3 more seem to break. However, Jenny keeps working hard to get things together. But mother nature deals one striking blow, it knocks out all the electricity in the Inn. Jenny is able to talk the guest into staying, but Brian decides to go back to Wall Street to make fast money to fix the damage. As Brian spend more time away, Jenny is worried that the lure of Wall Street will keep him away. She doesn’t want to influence his opinion but she wants Brian to come back to small-town life.
It’s nice to see a couple works together for a common goal. And to get Brian to see the beauty of small-town life, Jenny doesn’t connive or scheme, she just visits and tell him that she misses him. This is enough to make him reconsider climbing the corporate ladder again. This is another lesson for the couple’s communications skills. Neither wants to force the person’s decisions, but they want to be heard. It will take most of the movie and advice from friends for them to figure it out. This storyline is a problem real-life couples, but it’s Hallmark so you know how it’s going to end. So record this one and use it as background noise.
I give it 2.5 out of 5 stars
I’m from the mean streets of Manhattan, being nice is a big adjustment – Brian
I miss you. I miss us – Jenny
Don’t let the suit define the man – Tony
She’s clearly an amateur – Denise
Trains go both ways – Casey
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A Mother’s Crime – Review
A Mother’s Crime – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Uninvited, Danielle comes to her sister’s Nikki’s house. Nikki is having a birthday party for her daughter Becky. So, seeing Danielle, with a baby in tow, is an unpleasant surprise for Nikki. After a few harsh words, Nikki allows Danielle and her baby Cali to stay the night. While Nikki and Becky are asleep, Danielle takes Nikki’s wallet and runs with Cali. While on the road, Cali gets sick and Danielle takes her to the hospital. Danielle uses Nikki’s credit card to pay for anything the baby needs. Danielle steps out to call her boyfriend Gunner. Gunner advises Danielle to meet him so they can run together but when he learns that Cali is with them, he tells Danielle to choose. Him or the baby. During this time, Nikki is at work when her friend Millie shows her horrible news. Danielle is wanted for murdering her husband. Danielle quickly reports Nikky to the police. Soon the hospital arrests Danielle as she is about to abandon Cali for Gunner. Since Nikki is Cali closest relative, she picks her up. At first, she wants to give her up for adoption but changes her mind. Danielle signs away her parental rights and goes to jail for 7 years for manslaughter. While Danielle has given up Cali on paper, she will get her daughter back. By any means necessary.
One thing is clear, Nikki and Danielle hate each other. But there is never a specific reason why. Just comments about the past. Without knowing the history behind the hatred, Nikki comes off as cold, hard, and mean. However, her feelings may be justified. If only we knew. You will get a sense of how much Cali is loved and wanted. Even if some of the love is misguided. Especially when she is kidnapped twice within a day “for her benefit”. It becomes easy to see how Becky feels neglected and starts to resent the people around her. While this movie has it’s gaps, it’s still watchable.
I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars
You got knocked up. Good for you – Nikki
She’s your sister – Millie
Baby? You brought the baby with you? – Gunner
Just remember, I’m always gonna be your mommy – Danielle
No promises – Cali
I have lawyers too – Beatrice
I liked it better when it was just you and me – Becky
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#TenMurderIsland, #SecretsBET, and more – TV Reviews
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Ten: Murder Island – Review
Ten: Murder Island – Lifetime – 2 hours and 2 minutes
Meg and 9 other students from 3 different school all meet up at a vacation home at the request of their mutual friend Jennifer. Meg’s ex-love interest TJ and her best friend Minnie are at odds about what happened the night before the dance. Meg is doing everything she can to avoid TJ and keep her friendship with Minnie strong. On their first night, they find an unmarked DVD and watch it. It has a countdown, random images and clips, and the final words “Vengence is Mine”. A little freaked out they all go to bed. Meg finds a diary page that details a girl being betrayed for a singing solo. In the middle of the night, Meg wakes up to find one of the students hanging with a suicide note and a “1” in red paint on the wall. While everyone thinks this is a sad coincidence, Meg notices the suicide note was written on the back of song lyrics. The same song lyrics mentioned on the diary page. Meg has to convince everyone that a killer is on the loose, keep everyone from going nuts, and find a killer. And all before she’s next.
Based on the novel, Ten by Gretchen McNeil, this is a really good thriller (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). You are left to believe everyone is a killer, even a ghost. As each person dies, you cross off another name on your suspect list. And with Minnie off her meds, Kamiko losing it, and Ben pointing fingers, everyone is a suspect. Also, everyone has a reason to be killed since they all bullied a girl who committed suicide a few months earlier. You might believe you have the killer figured out but 90% will be wrong. Sit back and enjoy a good teen thriller.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
Anything you can’t do? – Meg
You think too much girl – TJ
Everyone knows what you did Vivian – Laurie
I’m still in love with him – Minnie
I think I can help – Vivian
Some might say that’s the same thing, Meg – Ben
What I saw was someone who was off her meds – Kamiko
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Secrets – Review
Secrets – BET – 2 hours and 1 minute
Tarron believes he is a loyal husband to his wife Secret but he knows he’s not faithful. He prides himself on being a provider but he is bored with married life. He believes he married too earlier and should be allowed to have a little fun. After breaking off his affair with Monica, he is trying hard to stay on the straight and narrow. Just as his career is on a hot streak, the boss invites Victoria to join the team. Soon, Tarron and Victoria are spending lunches together and Secret is getting suspicious. After a huge fight about trust, Tarron leaves Secret and get his own place. In time, his family, job, and health are in shambles. And the only way to bring everything back is for everyone to tell the truth. Including is Tarron, his brother Jay, Secret, Victoria, and his mother.
Based on the novel, Secrets of a Housewife by J Tremble, this movie is what happens when the can of worms is opened wide poured all over the table (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). The story starts off as a simple cheating story but leads to blackmail, drugs, and a blood test. It gets complicated quick. Be prepared because the 1st hour is a boring setup and the last hour is a great finisher. So hang in there. The biggest problem is due to the backing track often drowning out the dialogue. It makes it hard to hear the best and most profound parts. Also, Tarron plays the victim too much and it comes off as whining. However, his mobile stalker will take him and you by surprise.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
Don’t bother cleaning up – Tarron
So what about that new bike – Terrance
You can keep your son and his crusty draws – Secret
Answers to our problems isn’t out there, it’s in there – Steven
Nobody wears tennis bracelets anymore – Monica
My career comes first, always – Victoria
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Downsized – Review
Downsized – TVOne – 2 hours and 0 minutes
In 1991, 14-year-old Ebony and Michael got pregnant. Their family quickly lay down their lives. Ebony is to go cosmetology school and start doing hair. Michael is to go to ROTC and enlist. When they both graduate, they should get married and raise their child as a family. Three more kids and 25 years later, Ebony owes a salon and does makeup & hair for the stars. Michael finished his tours of duty and completed his first book. But years ago, the two agreed that when their oldest child finished law school, they would get a divorce and live their lives. With the date looming, Michael is having second thoughts. So he decides to take his family to the cabin and remove most of the technology so they can bond. He hopes this will change Ebony’s mind and save his family.
This movie covers topics of forced commitments, infidelity, communication, parental expectations, and love. However, the saddest impact is the effect the divorce is having on the children. Ebony and Michael attempt to keep the divorce a secret as long as possible, but the children are crushed to know the truth. The kids try everything possible to keep their parents together. But they will realize that they are not the problem. So, they can’t fix the issue. Being in this cabin forces the entire family to communicate and put everything out in the open, but can the marriage last?
I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars
Capital D-I-V-A. She almost made me lose faith in humanity – Ebony
We did it – Michael
Is he blackmailing you or something – Malaysia
I have no bars, no reception. This is bad – Michelle
By wonderful, I mean terrible, horrible, excruciating – Madison
That’s how it’s gonna be. You got favorites now – Jr
Illicit – Review
Illicit – BET – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Guy, a parole officer, has worked hard to give his wife the house, car, and life she has always wanted. Also, he is a dedicated father to his daughter. He hopes his wife knows he is a “good one”. Sasha, a former model and jewelry designer, has sacrificed everything for her family. She has breakfast ready in the morning and dinner by 7 every night. She hopes her husband appreciates it. But when she tells her husband she wants to model again, he tells her she needs to focus on their child and give up her hobby. She lets it go until she meets a Cruise (like Uber) driver named Lance. After a few rides, she learns he is a photographer and she agrees to take some pictures. On the other side of the marriage, Guy has taken on a new parolee Farrah. If he can get Farrah on the right path, he will get a promotion. Farrah attacked her abusive boyfriend, got arrested, and put on probation. She fears her ex-boyfriend is stalking her again and ask Guy to take her home. Guy agrees to keep her safe and check out her apartment. Agreeing to Lance and Farrah will turn their lives upside down and lead them into a tangled web of lies and the most uncomfortable dinner party ever.
Talk about a tangled web. Sasha gets mixed up in a stalker with an orgy and auntie fetish. Guy gets mixed up in a stalker with blackmail issues and a gun. It’s all crazy from beginning to end. While the resolution is not believable, it’s the best way to have this movie conclude without ending in violence. As a viewer, it’s hard to believe that this couple doesn’t see the writing on the wall before the crazy stuff starts; because it’s all there in black and white. You will be yelling at the TV for them to see the writing on the wall. But it will come too little too late.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
Who is going to be taking care of our little girl while you are out gallivanting the world – Guy
You sacrifice for the people you love – Sasha
If I wanted excuses, I would have hired my ex – Linda
Aww hell no – Ty
You left something at my house and I thought you would need it to play husband – Farrah
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Drink, Slay, Love – Review
Drink, Slay, Love – Lifetime – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Pearl and Jadrian go out for a date night and something to drink. Blood. They are teen vampires who love the hunt and believe humans are worthless creatures. During a late night snack, Pearl is staked and wakes up at home. Her family does not believe she was staked but her mother puts her on punishment. She is not allowed to hunt alone and must mind herself before the Vampire king comes to town for the festival. Her family was given the prestigious honor of hosting the event and they want to be at their best. But Pearl, being a teen, sneaks out to hunt. She is made as a vampire and a group of boys leaves her to burn in the sun. However, she doesn’t burn. She walks around in the daytime shocked by how boring it all is. Later, she comes home and shares the news with her family. Her mother decides to use her daughter’s gifts to their advantage. Since the King will be there for the festival, they must stock up on blood. And she wants Pearl to hunt in the daytime by going to high school and getting close to all the kids. During her time in high school, Pearl has noticed a side effect with her new gift, she is growing a conscience and worries about her classmates’ lives. Can she help them and keep her family happy?
Based on the novel, Drink, Slay, Love by Sarah Beth Durst, this is a new twist to the vampire teen romance phenomenon (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). The girl is the dangerous vampire and “fitting in” is nothing she wants. Nor does she try to pretend. She quickly puts Queen Bee on notice with a broken window and an emergency brake. While it does have vampires and love, it also discusses responsibility and loyalty. Pearl wants to honor her parents but she doesn’t want her new friends to be hurt. It’s a lot for a teen to grasp. This is an adventurous movie for teens and adults; it’s not afraid to make fun of itself.
I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars
Don’t worry. I’ll leave it somewhere safe – Pearl
Kill or be killed – Bethany
A bit plain for my taste but if this is what’s on the menu – Jadrian
I look really good in a tux – Evan
You always get what you want – Antoinette
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#WhenLoveKills: The Falicia Blakely Story – TV Review
When Love Kills: The Falicia Blakely Story – TVOne – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Falicia wanted to make enough money to get out of her mom’s home. When her minimum wage job wasn’t enough to get what she needed, Falicia was introduced to stripping by her cousin. At first, she is awkward and uncomfortable but as her money, attention, and alcohol increased, it was easier to strip. While working at the club, she met Robert. Robert gave her all the love and attention she wanted and he didn’t care that she stripped. But when she became pregnant, he disappeared. Now, Falicia is stripping to take care of herself and her child. So when Big Dino comes to the club and showers her with attention and gifts, she gives him private dances and her loyalty. Even when Big Dino is in jail, he provides money for her rides home and prenatal care. So when Big Dino gets out and tells her she is too good for the club, she quits. Soon Falicia starts making plans to take classes, but Big Dino reminds her that classes cost money. And to get the money, she needs to dance. Falicia is back in the strip club and starts turning tricks in the champagne room. But when she says no to a paying customer, Big Dino headbutts her. With an apology, some gifts, and a declaration of love, Falicia decides to stay with Big Dino. Since Big Dino is taking care of her and her daughter, she vows to make him proud and never make him mad again. That vow will make her pimp, rob, and kill. Falicia will pay a horrible cost for her loyalty to Big Dino. And Falicia confesses it to the one person that needs to learn the lesson she was taught too late.
Based on a true story, this is a tragic tale of a little girl lost. You will see how Big Dino manipulates Falicia to keeping herself trapped by blaming her, taking care of her, and using responsibility as trust and love. However, Falicia was the biggest pawn in his game. He constantly promises a better life and her low self-worth makes her an easy target for him. Falicia’s reality is warped because she wants to make Big Dino proud and make a better life for both of them. But she doesn’t understand that he will never be happy and always want more. Director Tasha Smith has brought out the best in Lance Gross and Lil’ Mama. Lance uses his nice guy persona to trap you in, then he can quickly snap to the abuser. It’s remarkable to see this change in his acting ability. Lil Mama proves she can hold her own in any role. As she delves deeper into Falicia’s dark side, you can see her eyes go vacant. This is a standout, career-making role for her. This movie is a must see. Stop Domestic Violence
I give it 5 out of 5 stars
Dino gonna be real proud – Falicia
How am I suppose to believe that you love me when you don’t even listen to what is say – Big Dino
