tvreview
#HerBoyfriendsSecret, #HouseOfDarknessNewBlood, and more – TV Reviews
| Table of Reviews |
|---|
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
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
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
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
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
Find, shop for, and watch BET movies on iTunes (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
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
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Click here for more information
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
Find, shop for, and watch TVOne movies on iTunes (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
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
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
#HomecomingRevenge, #FreakyFriday, and more – TV Reviews
| Table of Reviews |
|---|
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
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Click here for more information
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
Find, shop for, and watch Disney movies on Amazon (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
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
Find, shop for, and watch Hallmark movies on Amazon (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
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
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Click here for more information
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
Find, shop for, and watch Hallmark movies on Amazon (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
#KillerTwin, #IllBeWatching, and more – TV Reviews
| Table of Reviews |
|---|
Killer Twin – Review
Killer Twin – Lifetime – 2 hours and 2 minutes
Amber looks at a newspaper and sees her face staring back at her. Only that face belongs to her twin sister Kendra. When they were a few years old, the manager of their orphanage didn’t tell Kendra’s adoptive parents that she had a twin. Kendra was adopted and Amber was left behind to age out of the system. Gazing upon Kendra, Amber sees the life she could have had if she were adopted instead of Kendra. Amber thinks Kendra has had the “good life” long enough and she wants if for herself. Amber will steal, con, and kill to take over Kendra’s life. And when she does, her life will be complete.
The interesting twist about this movie is that Kendra doesn’t remember her sister. She believes that someone broke into her home, stole her identity, and started using her cards. Although she knows she was adopted, the just doesn’t remember having a twin. And it is a visual feast seeing Lindsay Hartley, play a character acting like another character. She adds a few subtle changes when she is Amber pretending to be Kendra. It makes the story believable for the audience that this woman is really a twin. Check out this movie today.
I give it 4 out of 5 stars
Kendra the chosen one. Now, the disposable one – Amber
Be careful. You’re tough but you’re in danger – Dane
Well if she wasn’t a criminal before, she is now – Kendra
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Click here for more information
I’ll Be Watching – Review
I’ll Be Watching – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Kate works in a bookstore while attending college. She spends her personal time at home, reading, and studying. Her neighbor Nate offers to take her to dinner to get her out the house. After a few tries, she agrees and has a good time. Until she gets home and finds a bloody purple rose. Creeped out, she calls the police and Detective Paine comes to take her statement. Kate discovers that the rose and Nate are both gone. While the detective believes her, there is nothing more he can do. Kate tries to go on with her life until she is attacked and someone is killed holding a note for Kira. The cops decide to give her 24-hour protection. After a few days, nothing happens and the cops are pulled off Kate’s stalking case. The very next night, Kate’s stalker attacks her, cuts her, and warns her to keep the cops away or she and the cops are dead. Kira is hospitalized and wakes up with the cops by her side. Even though she tells them to go away, they stay. After she gets the green light to go home, Kate gives the cops the slip and goes on the run. She contacts the detectives once a week from a blocked number to report but she makes sure to give no details. While she is holding back her location from them, they are holding back something from her. They know if she hears it, it will rock her to her core and bring her back. Back into the arms of her stalker.
Based on The Purple Rose by Christi R. Walsh, this movie sets a new notch on the creepy dial (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). It’s great to see this movie break away from the Lifetime norm. The cops don’t blow her off and then show up in the last 5 minutes to save her from the killer. These cops understand the stalker is dangerous and do everything possible to help her. And in most Lifetime movies, knowing the stalker takes away your fear. But this time, it doesn’t. Not at all. Knowing this stalker’s face makes the fear 10 times worse. You will get a sick feeling when you watch. That is what makes this movie great.
I give it 4.5 out of 5 stars
He cut me so no one else would want me – Kate
That looks horrible – Jake
Don’t be sorry and don’t be ashamed – Jack
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Click here for more information
Aurora Teagarden Mysteries: The Disappearing Game – Review
Aurora Teagarden Mysteries: The Disappearing Game – HMM – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Aurora his happy to hear her cousin Phillip is coming to visit. She can’t wait because she knows he has been studying hard a college. And with his birthday coming up tomorrow, she and her mother Aida hope to take him out to dinner. When Phillip gets the invite, he asks if his roommate Josh and Josh’s girlfriend Tammy could come along. Aurora agrees and starts making plans. The next day, Phillip says he is sick and can’t make it. Out of concern, Aurora comes to his dorm with chicken soup and can’t find Phillip or Tammy. Aurora starts looking for Phillip immediately. Unfortunately, she finds Tammy dead. Now, Aurora concern grows to panic. And just when she thinks things can’t get worst, Josh is missing too. Now Aurora must find Josh and Phillip & discover who killed Tammy.
Like the book series, pay full attention to this story because you are getting 2 mysteries in one (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer). Don’t worry, they do come back full circle but you have to focus to understand everything that is going on. And in complete Aurora fashion, she is doing everything she is told not to do. But that’s why you love her. While foreshadowing does give the suspect away, it doesn’t reveal everything. So keep watching for some juicy reveals. Unfolding the mystery does go a bit fast, so don’t be surprised if you watch it twice to understand everything that happened.
I give it 5 out of 5 stars
I’m just curious about my new neighbor – Aurora
What I live alone. I have taken one or two self-defense classes – Aida
Find, shop for, and watch Hallmark movies on Amazon (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Cheerleader Nightmare – Review
Cheerleader Nightmare – Lifetime – 2 hours and 2 minutes
Sophie is happy to be the official photographer for her school. Her friend Mikey works with her and her mother is the cheerleading coach. And she is dating the captain of the football team, Tyler. While her life is going great, she has one major hater, Leah, the head cheerleader. Every time Sophie is with Tyler, Leah gives her the stink eye. Mikey believes Leah is jealous because the head cheerleader should always date the football player. But Sophie doesn’t believe that’s the reason. That is, until later that day when Mikey flies a drone over a team party to watch what is going on. Sophie believes he is being creepy and grabs the goggles. And in that split second she sees her boyfriend kissing Leah. Heartbroken she leaves Mikey behind and heads home. The next morning she wakes up to the horrible news that Leah was found dead. Worried that she will be a suspect, Sophie decides to investigate. But will this vigilante become a victim?
This is a good mystery with plenty of viable suspects. It even allows the audience to eliminate them one by one with the characters. The “why” for the killing could have been a bit more original, it’s still a good watch. So DVR this movie and save for a rainy day. But don’t open that bottle of wine.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
Today never happened, ok – Sophie
One tragedy doesn’t fix another tragedy – Tyler
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Click here for more information
Love on Safari – Review
Love on Safari – Hallmark – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Kira, a web designer in Chicago, gets a letter from her uncle’s estate in South Africa. They have been trying to find her for months because her uncle passed away and left her something in his will. In order to find out what she will receive, she must go to South Africa for the will reading. While she has picturesque memories of her uncle’s wildlife reserve, she has not been there in years. After toying with the idea, she decides to go. Upon arrival, she meets Rangers Tom and Ally. While Tom is getting Kira reacquainted with the reserve, he is concerned about its survival during the change in ownership. They have no idea who the new owner will be and a competitor is hoping to buy. Tom knows this buyer’s reputation and doesn’t believe the buyer will uphold the traditions set forth by Kira’s uncle. So, during the will reading, Tom is floored to hear that Kira is the new owner. Kira is stunned and bewildered. She instantly wants to walk away. To save the reserve and the surrounding village, he has to use his charms to convince Kira to keep the reservation.
While this love story follows the Hallmark format, looking at the breath-taking landscape and the magnificent animals makes this movie worth watching. It shows the good side of the reservations when they work with the neighboring communities without doing irreparable damage to the wildlife. It makes you want to see this place up close and personal. Don’t be surprised if you start looking up ticket prices after the first hour.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
Of course, I can’t go to South Africa – Kira
You’re going all the way to Africa for whistles – Brad
What makes you think she does belong here – Ally
Just because the waters calm doesn’t mean there’re no crocodiles – Tom
Find, shop for, and watch Hallmark movies on Amazon (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
#WeBelongTogether, #TheWrongCruise, and more – TV Reviews
| Table of Reviews |
|---|
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
Find, shop for, and watch BET movies on iTunes (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
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
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Click here for more information
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
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
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
Find, shop for, and watch Hallmark movies on Amazon (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
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
Find, shop for, and watch TVOne movies on iTunes (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
#AStolenLife, #POstables, and more – TV Reviews
| Table of Reviews |
|---|
A Stolen Life – Review
A Stolen Life – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Thirteen years ago, Tamara tried helplessly to stop a man from kidnapping her daughter Elizabeth. Even though she tried, the kidnapper got away with her only child. And with the depression and pain of losing their child, Tamara’s marriage fell apart. Today, Tamara gets a call from her childhood best friend that a girl in her math class named Aubrey looks just like Tamara did when she was 15. Mrs. Brent believes Aubrey is Elizabeth. When Mrs. Brent sees Aubrey crying after a math test, Mrs. Brent suggests she get a tutor. At first, Aubrey says no but Mrs. Brent calls Aubrey’s parents Richard and Beth. Richard doesn’t want to pay but Beth convinces him that Aubrey’s education is an investment. And just like that, Tamara is a step closer to getting Aubrey back. But, is Aubrey really Elizabeth? If so, will she accept Tamara?
This is a sweet movie but it’s just dull for Lifetime. Lifetime is about psycho murders, crazy exes, and killer kids. This movie didn’t have any real excitement. You can watch the first 30 minutes, fall asleep, and catch the last 20 minutes and not miss a thing. This movie belongs on HMM, not Lifetime.
I give it 2 out of 5 stars
And you need to start making some smarter choices – Richard
That’s not love. He’s always been that way towards me – Aubrey
You want me to kill him – Travis
I am so sorry he treats you so badly – Tamara
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Click here for more information
Signed, Sealed, Delivered: To The Altar – Review
Signed, Sealed, Delivered: To The Altar – HMM – 2 hours and 0 minutes
With Rita and Norman’s wedding around the corner, Shane and Oliver start to have thoughts of their own future. So when Shane finds a wedding dress in the lost letters auction, she grabs it before it can go on sale. When she tries it on, she is in love. However, it’s the letter in the pocket that throws her off. The letter is written from a mother to a daughter. She apologizes for not being able to attend the wedding and gives her the family history of the wedding dress. The POstables realize the package has only been at the facility a little while and they still may be able to find the recipient in time for her wedding. This search will lead them to strong women, family secrets, and stories that will touch millions. Meanwhile, Rita and Norman are facing the cold truth of Murphy’s Law and weddings. “Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong”.
Bring out some tissues. This is one of the best POstables ever to hit the small screen. As Rita and Norman face issue after issue before their wedding, they handle the pressure with love and kindness. It truly expresses why they are perfect for each other. And while the story of the lost wedding dress will strike a chord with everyone who watches it, POstable fans will get the moment they have all been waiting for. Ugly green tie included.
I give it 5 out of 5 stars
A stamp is the smallest contract in the world – Oliver
No bigger than a postage stamp – Rita
It’s a canoe – Norman
Are you wearing what I think you’re wearing – Shane
Find, shop for, and watch Hallmark movies on Amazon (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
The Nanny is Watching – Review
The Nanny is Watching – Lifetime – 2 hours and 3 minutes
No matter how hard Scott and Mara try, they just can’t keep their home in order. And this morning has been so trying that Mara almost lost a potential client. And to make matters worse, their home was broken into. Even though nobody was hurt, Mara and Scott believe they should have an alarm system. After hearing the couple squabble over functionality versus price, their nanny Rachel suggested a company. It’s the same company her mother uses. This company provides cameras, 24-hour surveillance, and a smart hub that integrated with their appliances. The next morning, the coffee is ready, the alarm works, the pool is clean, and the couple can relax. With so much time, they start to wonder if the need Rachel anymore. While on a walk to consider Rachel’s employment, Mara runs into Rachel’s mother and learns something disturbing.
It doesn’t take long to see where this story is going after you hear about Scott and Mara’s family dynamic. A seasoned Lifetimer will get the “why” Rachel is doing it easily. However, it’s the “how” that will give you a moment of pause. How often do we trust the people who work for us with intimate details of our lives? As much as we know about protecting ourselves from attack, we let our guards down in the easiest way. A bright light in this movie is Scott. He is not the typical blind husband. He tries to warn Mara that Rachel’s trouble, but she believes Rachel. This isn’t the best Lifetime has to offer but it’s a great movie for a rainy day.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
Don’t worry sweetie. I don’t send her nearly as many winks faces as I send you – Scott
I know honey but she is a millennial and she can do it so much faster – Mara
You don’t get to hit me. You don’t get to yell at me. You don’t get to do anything to me – Rachel
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
#MyHusbandsDoubleLife and #KillerCaregiver – TV Reviews
| Table of Reviews |
|---|
My Husband’s Double Life – Review
My Husband’s Double Life – Lifetime – 2 hours and 3 minutes
Sabrina is getting her life back together after she nearly died due to a miscarriage. Even though she has a lot going on with a teenage daughter and an international traveling husband, she still wants to work full-time. When Sabrina notices an unrecognized charged to their credit card, she believes it’s fraud and tells her husband Fletcher. Fletcher insists on handling the matter after his flight to Paris for work the next day. However, when Sabrina sees the charge came from a lingerie store in Paris, she decides to surprise Fletcher by coming to Paris and do some digging. So Sabrina leaves their daughter Zoe behind to meet with Fletcher. When Sabrina lands, she calls Fletcher and he is not happy to hear from her. She doesn’t know about Fletcher’s double life and that having her in Paris will ruin all of his plans.
This movie is a lot to unpackage in a little time. While you have an idea of what Fletcher is lying about, his lies are much deeper and deadlier that the title leads you to believe. Although there are some twists, it’s just not enough to keep you interested. You could miss some sections of this movie and still have an understanding of everything that is going on. Now the saving grace for this movie is the last 30 minutes. It gets brutal and cold and never let’s go. Consider this movie the TV version of The Girl on The Train but set in a Paris hotel.
I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars
I know who you are – Bridget
You should have stayed in New York – Fletcher
No. No, I’m not running from this. I need to make him pay – Sabrina
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Click here for more information
Killer Caregiver – Review
Killer Caregiver – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Mariah has been confiding in her boss Graham for a while. However, he has misunderstood her openness as affection. When she tries to reject his advances, he ends up dead and she hurts her arm badly. A few weeks later, Mariah’s doctor notices she has not healed at all. Mariah explains that working a full-time job and helping her son with autism has left little to no room for herself. Her doctor suggests Mariah should get a caregiver to help her around the house and with her physical therapy. Although Mariah thinks its silly, she agrees to hire someone. She finds Tess from an agency and everything works out. But, Mariah starts failing at her job, disconnecting with her son, fighting with her husband, and getting physically worse. Whilst Mariah has her suspicions, it will take one admission for Mariah to see the truth behind Tess’s lies.
This has the set up of a typical Lifetime movie, but there are a few things that set it apart. First, you find out Tess’s motive in the first 30 minutes. She doesn’t go into a long monologue at the end of the film to reveal her motive and plan. Second, Mariah isn’t clueless. When Tess starts to act weird, she acknowledges it and starts to investigate. This movie does bring one annoying thing to light: tenant rights. Once again, a Lifetime movie shows how a worker can become a permanent resident in your home. This movie will make you laugh more than it will shock or surprise you. So DVR and watch on a rainy day.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
I’m a working mom with an autistic child. There is only so much resting I can do – Mariah
Jacob some people don’t deserve one – Tess
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Click here for more information
#MurderedAt17, #RoomForMurder, and more – TV Reviews
| Table of Reviews |
|---|
Murdered at 17 – Review
Murdered at 17 – Lifetime – 2 hours and 2 minutes
After hitting her head in a cheerleading accident, Brooke suffers from Intermitted Explosive Disorder (IED). She can easily erupt during a normal conversation, frustration, or argument. She goes to therapy and takes medication to help. So when she wakes up after a party to find a knife in her hand and her best friend Maddie dead beside her, she panics. She believes she killed her best friend and fell asleep but she doesn’t remember anything. So she grabs the knife and starts to clean up. She goes home, throws away the evidence and tries to forget everything. But the guilt is eating her alive. She wants to tell someone but can’t muster up the courage. Just when she thinks life can’t get any lower, her ex Jake calls. He has all the evidence she threw away and if she wants them to remain hidden, she must marry him. She knows he is unstable and controlling but she doesn’t want to go to jail. Brooke must get a handle on her life but first, she must come clean.
This is a very tense movie that covers several mental illnesses. While it doesn’t get preachy, it gives some information on IED but not a lot. You can’t miss any of this movie because the first 10 minutes set up Jake’s character, while the next 20 set up Brooke’s character. The next 30 is Brooke and Jake’s relationship and downfall. Then the rest is uncovering what happened that night. If you see the critical setups, the rest of the film can be background noise. So DVR this one and you can fast forward when needed/wanted.
I give it 3 out of 5 stars
That is evil. And you sat right there and watched him do it – Jake
Should she be? – Brooke
You need to up your medication, seriously – Maddie
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Room for Murder – Review
Room for Murder – Lifetime – 2 hours and 3 minutes
Kristen comes home with a degree and no job. She doesn’t know how long she will stay with her mom Moira. But Moira doesn’t know where Kristen will sleep. Moira rented out her room on Air BNB to Jake. Kristen is concerned that her mom didn’t properly vet Jake and he could be dangerous. Also, Kristen didn’t know her mom was having money problems so bad she would need a renter to make ends meet. Moira confesses that she has gotten more clients in the hair salon but she can’t seem to get out of the red. Kristen agrees to help with the finances, get a job, and find a place to sleep. But after a woman is attacked, Kristen swears Jake must have done it. Kristen believes Moira has a blind spot for Jake when she learns they are they are sleeping together. So Kristen will ask her ex Ryan to help. It will take a few bodies to straighten this one out.
This movie falls into the Lifetime rut of ‘trying to warn someone that their lover is a creep’ movie. Each time Moira defends Jake, you will roll your eyes. All the signs are there and she chooses to ignore them. This movie is nothing new and you know the ending. So keep it as background noise.
I give it 2 out of 5 stars
Crawling back home with my tail between my legs – Kristen
Ok, let’s just hope its just a couple of weeks then – Moira
You wanted to speak with me – Ryan
You’re a good mom. Let’s hope she appreciates you – Jake
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Family Vanished – Review
Family Vanished – LMN – 2 hours and 0 minutes
Brian, Lisa, and their daughter April return home from a dream vacation to find a nightmare. Three intruders are waiting for them with guns and a plan. And to make matters worse, the three intruders are one big happy family too. Mike, Carol, and Marsha believe the family that robs together, stays together. They think people like Brian and Lisa look down on them and it’s time to get even. Carol read in the paper that Lisa received over $600,000 for her painting. And they want that money. Now the will hold the family hostage, beaten, and threaten them until they get every last dime.
This film is more annoying than nerve-racking. You will yell at the TV because of the dumb mistakes Brian’s family makes each time they get a leg up on the criminals. And hearing the criminals whine about their lives is even worse. You don’t want anyone to win in this movie. It tries to save itself by becoming a revenge movie, but it’s too late and too short-lived to be satisfying. This movie can be skipped.
I give it 1.5 out of 5 stars
I’m surprised you can read – Brian
I always thought it would help the gallery – Lisa
It’s called survival Brian – Mike
I’m sure you can find something else to wear in here – Carol
Really sucks to be you – Marsha
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
Click here for more information
Killer Single Dad – Review
Killer Single Dad – Lifetime – 2 hours and 5 minutes
After kicking her husband Matt to the curb for kissing his ex, Jennifer takes a bad fall down the steps. She wakes up in the hospital room worried about her unborn child. She discovers a good Samaritan called the police when he heard fighting and found her on the floor. With her father’s police contacts, Jennifer found her good Samaritan named Garrett. Garrett explains that he couldn’t imagine not helping after losing his wife and becoming a single dad of 2 girls. While he has one daughter with him, he will get his other daughter when he settles in. But he knows how hard this pregnancy will be alone, so he offers to help Jennifer when he can. With Garrett giving 24-hour support, Matt’s pushed farther away. But Garrett’s interest in Jennifer rubs Matt the wrong way. He knows something isn’t right about Garrett and he is right. The truth will leave Jennifer shattered and several dead.
So this is a 10 on the creepy scale. But Lifetime movies have a great way of making you angry at the victim. Jenifer is just too trusting of Garrett and never questions his stories. You will find yourself saying “Come on. Really?” more than once during this movie. Now a highlight is the nanny, Olivia. She isn’t the sweet grandma she comes off to be. She is funny and cunning. Even if it’s not for long. But the role reversal in parental need is a new twist to the plot. This is a good movie to have in the background while doing other things. But you have a good idea of how it’s going to end.
I give it 2.5 out of 5 stars
If we can make amends, I will be happy to put in a good word with Jen for you – Garrett
You are a genius – Jennifer
What are you hiding in here – Olivia
Find, shop for, and watch Lifetime movies on Amazon TV (FTC Affiliate Disclaimer)
