Movie #2059 ........................."Shaun the Sheep: Flight Before Christmas" (Netflix)

 Movie #2059 "Shaun the Sheep:  Flight Before Christmas" (Netflix) We love Shaun the Sheep so when we saw this one was available and we hadn't seen it, we put it on tonight and what fun!  Shaun the Sheep flicks are so creative and fun to watch.  Quickly paced and demand attention to every detail --- I would think kids would really enjoy this, but we do, too.  This one involves a baby sheep that accidentally gets caught wrapped up in a box that is then given to a little girl --- the flight of the sheep is to get the little one back, and it involves Santa Claus, a sleigh, and a remote control.  I give it a 5 out of 5 --- lots of fun and highly recommended!

"SHAUN THE SHEEP:  FLIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS"    Netflix     2021    30 min

Shaun's seasonal excitement turns to dismay when a farmhouse raid to get bigger stockings for the Flock inadvertently leads to Timmy going missing.  Can Shaun get Timmy back before he becomes someone else's present?

Director:  Steve Cox

Writers:  Nick Park, Giles Pilbrow, Mark Burton

Stars:  Justin Fletcher, John Sparkes, Laura Alkman

Movie #2058 ........................."Shang Chi and the Legend of the 10 rings" (Disney+)

 Movie #2058 "Shang Chi and the Legend of the 10 rings" (Disney+)  - I am not a Marvel fan, but this one I wanted to see just from the trailer --- the lead played one of the leads on a very favorite show we streamed called "Kim's Convenience," and it had Awkwafina so I knew there would be some humor.  So we watched this on new year's eve, and it was a lot of fun --- esp. at the beginning.  There was lots of humor and the story was intriguing and fairly easy to follow.  But then, it got to be too many fights for me, esp. the dragons at the end, when I got lost because I missed the idea there was a good dragon and a bad one --- but wow, the stunts.  Very impressive, esp. the bus on top of all the parked cars that it rides over in the first part of the film.  And it's always fun to see Michelle Yeoh (from "Crouching Tiger" and "Crazy Rich Asians".  I'd give this a 4 out of 5 for its entertainment value, esp. for the visual effects.  P.S.  loved Ben Kingsley and his pet without the mouth.  They both were an added addition to make sure there was something more in the film except the fighting, and I say thank you for that!

"SHANG CHI AND THE LEGEND OF THE 10 RINGS"   PG-13      2021       2 hours, 12 min.

Shang-Chi, the master of weaponry-based Kung Fu, is forced to confront his past after being drawn into the Ten Rings organization.

Director:  Destin Daniel Cretton

Writers:  DAve Callahan, Destin Daniel Cretton, Andrew Lanham

Stars:  Simu Liu, Awkwafina, Michelle Yeoh

Movie #2057 ........................."Being the Ricardos" (Amazon Prime)

 Movie #2057 "Being the Ricardos" (Amazon Prime)  This is the one I really wanted to see due to it having an Aaron Sorkin script --- which was amazing, as usual.  Some critics were saying considering it is about Lucille Ball, it wasn't that funny --- from everything I have ever heard about her, she was a no mess- around businesswoman in every sense of the word, so I didn't expect it to be as funny as it was, really --- mostly glib.   I was laughing a lot, but the speed of the pacing might get in the way of that a bit.  Anyway, lots of the conflicts we read about were covered here --- the main ones being  1) how winning of a personality Desi had, so women wanted to hook up with him all the time, and  2) after a while, he felt like a second banana to her and both of those got in the way of their relationship.  What I got from this film that I really didn't realize is that Desi was much smarter than I thought he was and made a lot of the decisions on the business end --- of course, Lucille Ball made sure that happened a lot, too.  I also liked the way the film showed how difficult being funny is --- how much rehearsal it took to get the scenes just right --- a lot of people don't realize that, and it's about time a script covered that part of comedy.  I liked the way the story was presented, too --- it seems disjointed, but that's the way it would be on a busy set --- and it goes back and forth from the set to scenes of their lives in the past, her working her way up from radio to t.v.  And I liked (as I said above) the story using the facts that we know, but going further with them, but it was never preachy --- you had to keep your eyes and ears opened to get the information on this relationship and how it did or didn't work.  It's my kind of movie --- it's about people in show business that I revered and wondered about --- I'd give it 4.8.

PS -- I meant to mention the smart opening, when we just hear their voices and we are convinced we are watching the real Desi and Lucy, and then it is revealed that Javiar Bardem is playing  Desi and Nicole Kidman is Lucy --- they did a nice job and I wouldn't be surprised if they are awarded for it.

"BEING THE RICARDOS"    2021     2 hours and 11 mins      rated R

Follows Lucy and Desi as they face a crisis that could end their careers and another that could end their marriage.

Director:  Aaron Sorkin

Writer:  Aaron Sorkin

Stars:  Nicole Kidman, Javier Bardem, J.K. Simmons

Movie # 2056 ........................."The Power of the Dog" (netflix)

 Movie #2056 "The Power of the Dog" (netflix)  This film is also nominated a lot for critics' choice awards and that figures because it is a bit of an arty film --- that is, it is beautifully photographed, has good music and an intriguing story (esp. the end), and one that demands attention --- it is definitely a slow burn throughout the whole film --- creepy in parts, strange in others, eerie mood --- a tough, uncomfortable watch from beginning to end --- not everything is explained to you at the moment or even by the end --- acting was just okay to me --- not a real standout --- yet, critics' choice nominated the 3 leads -- go figure.  I'd give it a 3.5 for the director's work --- she's Jane Campion and she's one of the best --- the movie reminded me in mood to her other famous one "Piano" --

"THE POWER OF THE DOG"     2 hours and 6 mins       R rated       2021

Charismatic rancher Phil Burbank inspires fear and awe in those around him.  When his brother brings home a new wife and her son, Phil torments them until he finds himself exposed to the possibility of love.

Director:  Jane Campion

Writers:  Jane Campion, Thomas Savage

Stars:  Benedict Cumberbatch, Kirsten Dunst, Jesse Plemons, Kodi Smit-McPhee 

Movie #2055 ........................."Nightmare Alley" (TCM)

 Movie #2055 "Nightmare Alley" (TCM) --- I saw this on TCM recently, knowing that Bradley Cooper is doing a redo of it, so I wanted to someday be able to compare the two.  The TCM speaker introducing the film said that Tyrone Power really worked at getting the rights to the film --- he really loved the story and was very proud of it when he was done.  I would imagine Bradley Cooper would see it as a great vehicle to show off an actor's talent.  Anyway, The plot here is very involved because it deals with a guy who works his way up through carney life, from assistant, to mind reader, and then down to geek.  It is the rise and fall of a flim flam artist.   He learns the con game and is pretty good at it for a while --- until he meets up with a formidable opponent.  I heard they changed the ending in the remake, so not sure how it will end up --- this one had a pretty up ending.  I'd give this a 4 for the interesting plot, and Tyrone Power is a wonder to watch on screen.  He was usually a pretty- boy actor who always got the girl and never had to work really hard to get her!  This seemed a different film for him so I'm glad he got to do it.  

"NIGHTMARE ALLEY"   1947            1 hour and 50 mins

The rise and fall of Stanton Carlisle, a mentalist whose lies and deceit prove to be his downfall.

Director:  Edmund Goulding

Writers:  Jules Furthman, William Lindsay Gresham

Stars:  Tyrone Power, Joan Blondell, Coleen Gray

Movie #2054 ........................."Don't Look Up" (netflix)

 Movie #2054 "Don't Look Up" (netflix) -- Here we go with critics' choice nominated  films that are available to see before the awards show on January 9.  

"Don't Look Up" was the first we watched --- huge cast of very capable actors in a film about, we hope, an  unlikely (at least at this point in time) huge asteroid/comet that is headed for earth,  and scientists ( mainly, at first, Jennifer Lawrence and Leonardo Di Caprio, who are the first discoverers of it) say it will cause complete destruction.  An intriguing idea with an obvious warning to us about Climate change/Global Warming, but I question the subject matter sustaining a full length movie --- there didn't seem to be anywhere to go  except from shock to fear to acceptance ---- and  not sure any of it is in any way funny --- the film is just too long and it runs out of steam somewhere in the middle --- and not sure how clear that message is because it seems too late for people in the film --- so shouldn't this be incentive to get people to work together to do something about it ?  I'm not sure we got that message --- if it comes across as just silly and that we were stupid because we did nothing about it when we could have, it just doesn't seem to work --- at least it didn't for us.  I give it a 3 out of 5 --- and that's really just for 1) the acting and 2) the bravery to put this film together --- just wish it worked as a scathing satire rather than a silly one.  

PS  --- and I didn't even bring up that over-the-top ending ---  

PPS --- Jonah Hill almost makes it worth one's while to see it, with his remarks about his "mother" (Meryl Streep) which I read was many times improvised.

"DON'T LOOK UP"      2 hours and 18 mins                2021     Rated R

Two low-level astronomers must go on a giant media tour to warn mankind of a approaching comet that will destroy planet earth.

Director:  Adam McKay

Writers:  Adam McKay, David Sirota

Stars:  Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep

Movie #2053 ........................."One Christmas Eve" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2053 "One Christmas Eve" (Hallmark)  Ready for an action Christmas movie?  I think this one could be in that genre.  Talk about stage business..... it's just one catastrophe after another, and it is very funny!  Good Family fun!  I am so glad I watched this --- it escaped my radar because it is an older one (2014) but what a hoot!  It is one bad christmas eve for one family and all the people that become involved in their mishaps (all over a dog!) , but it turns out to be very inspiring, as well!  And nice diversity, to boot.  Everyone is covered in this one, and therefore, it becomes that much more universal!  I'd give it a 5 out of 5.

"ONE CHRISTMAS EVE"    Hallmark      2014    1 hour and 26 mins 

A series of mishaps threaten a recently divorced mom's attempts to make her two kids' first Christmas "without dad" perfect.

Director:  Jay Russell

Writer: Holly Goldlberg Sloan

Stars:  Anne Heche, Kevin Daniels , Carlos Gomez

Movie #2052 ........................."Sugar Plum Twist" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2052 "Sugar Plum Twist" (Hallmark) This is one of the many Hallmark films that I wouldn't mind owning -- what fun it was to watch and I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS ONE.  Why?  It's so different, deals with diversity, and it is very creative ---- in that way, it stands out among the others.  Classical dancing, esp. Ballet, has been and continues to be THE dance that is most revered, and esp. at Christmas time with the "Nutcracker" etc.  Well, while a former ballerina is learning the ropes at choreographing the said show, she comes across a salsa teacher in the community who is a great dancer, in her opinion.  They don't hire her for their company, but the former ballerina takes this young girl under her wing and works with her --- as she does this, she discovers that if you fused ballet with salsa, you could get a sugar plum twist!  That is such a cool idea, and I loved the idea!  the dancing in this one was terrific. I'd give it 5 out of 5.  

THIS ONE IS BEING SHOWN AGAIN TOMORROW (DECEMBER 30) ON HALLMARK AT 11 A.M. TO 1 P.M.

"SUGAR PLUM TWIST"                     2021               1 hour and 24 mins

After failing to get the coveted role of the Sugar Plum Fairy in this year's production of the Nutcracker. Viviana Serrano joins forces with Natalia , to create a surprise reprise of the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy....with a Latin Twist.

Director:  Eric Close

Writer:  Cas Sigers-Beedies 

Stars:  Jamie Gray Hyder, Laura Rosguer, Jesmille Darbouze

Movie #2051 ........................."Every Time A Bell Rings" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2051 "Every Time A Bell Rings" (Hallmark)  This is the scavenger one with the three sisters (in case you saw all the trailers on this one) -- anyway, seemed a lot to cover in a short film, but they were able to do it.  I liked that it took place in Natchez, Mississippi, so it was pretty scenery and fun to see how Christmas is celebrated down south -- All three young women (+ Dee Wallace as the mom) were capable, and the two guys were warm and kind and fun to watch their wonderful treatment of the girls.  For the amount of time all these characters were given, it turned out to be a nice story, each one worthy of their own film, I was thinking.  One dealt with wanting to contact her biological mother, another with knowing when it was a good time to start a family and if she could do that and continue her job, and the other about being gay and finding her soul mate --- this might be one of the first lesbian kisses in a hallmark movie -- so it is breaking ground here, somewhat.  I'd give the film a 4, with the scavenger hunt being the least interesting thing about the film, but once again, it showed a lot of the area by having them scavenge all over the place to get the answers to the game.  

"EVERY TIME A BELL RINGS"       2021     1 hour and 24 mins

Three sisters reunite in their hometown of Natchez and discover their late father planned one last scavenger hunt for them to find the family's wishing bell -- an annual  family holiday tradition.  As they search for clues, their bond is rekindled, and they find hope and healing.

Director:  Maclain Nelson

Writers:  Alys Murray, Audrey Shulman

Stars:  Wes Brown, Erin Cahill, Ali Liebert, Brittany Ishibashi

Movie #2050 ........................."Boyfriends of Christmas Past" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2050 "Boyfriends of Christmas Past" (Hallmark) - Being a Dickens' fan, I thought I would see how the switch here would work --- the idea of the boyfriends coming back into her dreams and haunting her was the one selling feature of this particular film --- that, and her best friend (whom she ends up with -- sorry, but you would have  guessed it just from seeing the way he moons over her in the first minute of the film) -- he's sooooo nice and she's so flighty, too busy for him, narcissistic, and silly not to see he's the one.  She's the problem in the film --- her character and her overacting.  Her dad, the dad from "Kim's Convenience," was another reason I tuned in , and he had several good scenes giving dad advice (without the accent he uses in the aforementioned t.v. show) --- that was interesting, because his advice was about the second time around love, which isn't covered a lot in these films.  Anyway, as I said, the boyfriends coming back (one at a time, there are 4) was a good gimmick, but the stage business through the film was kind of boring --- she was trying to win an account (ho-hum) and he was always asking her to come to this and that at Christmas for his charity work -- I just wasn't sure, by the end, she was worthy of the guy --- he seemed oh so nice, and her --- even after going through the dreams and learning lessons?  Her, not so much.  I'd give it a 3.  

"BOYFRIENDS OF CHRISTMAS PAST"           2021           1 hour and 24 mins

Leading up to Christmas, Lauren is visited by the ghosts of ex-boyfriends.  She must learn to open her heart or risk losing her best friend, Nate.

Director:  Don McBrearty

Writers:  Edie Grace, Lisa Parsons

Stars:  Catherine Haena Kim, Raymond Ablack, Jenna Katz

Movie #2049 ........................."Holiday Inn" (DvD I own)

 Movie #2409 "Holiday Inn"  (DVD I own)  I have heard over the years that   there's  a debate over which xmas movie is the favorite --- Holiday Inn or White Christmas?  In our family, "White Christmas" is a tradition we watch every Christmas, along with, of course "It's a Wonderful Life."  Up until this year,  I have never been able to get through the entire "Holiday Inn" because when I tuned in to it, I couldn't follow the story --- they always seemed to be celebrating some holiday or another and it didn't seem all that Christmassy to me --- recently, I really enjoyed the musical at the Drury Lane based on this movie so I decided to sit down and watch the movie once and for all, and you know what?  Aside from Fred Astaire dancing the firecracker dance and a couple of other numbers, and Bing singing "White Christmas" (again), I don't see much here in this movie.  There isn't  as much humor in this one as "White Christmas" (that's because it sorely misses the beloved Danny Kaye)  nor heart.  People fall in love and fall out of love very whimsically in "Holiday Inn,"  in my opinion.  And as for the performers --- White Christmas has the smoking voice of Rosemary Clooney and the outstanding dancing of Vera Ellen.   And Bing Crosby is....well, Bing Crosby, and doesn't seem near as challenged in the acting or dancing category as in  "White Christmas".  However, "Inn"  does present a cool idea to offer a theatre that just does holiday stuff --- and then takes days off in between to relax and to plan the next one --- seems very logical, and I'm surprised there aren't more of these theaters.  Of course, it isn't good for the artist who has to perform on stage for every holiday, and that would take getting used to, but many performers perform during the holiday season anyway  AND all during the year, so the holiday theatre might not be a bad idea to give them a rest once in a while.  I'll just throw that suggestion out to all the young performers as a thought for a project in the future.  But as for now, I'd give White Christmas a 5 out of 5, and Holiday Inn, a 3.

"HOLIDAY INN"           1 hour, 40 mins       1942

At an inn which is open only on holidays, a crooner and a hoofer vie for the affections of a beautiful up-and-coming performer.  (not to mention the original dancing/singing  woman, as well; neither women measure up to the  "White Christmas" female stars , in my opinion)

Director:  Mark Sandrich 

Writer:  Claude Binyon (screenplay). Elmer Rice (adaptation), Irving Berlin had the idea

Stars:  Bring Crosby, Fred Astaire, Marjorie Reynolds

Movie #2048 ........................."West Side Story" 2021 (in theatre)

 Movie #2048 "West Side Story" 2021 (theatre) Wow!  I didn't think it could be better than the first one, but to me it was!  What a meticulously put together cinematic feat Spielberg performed here --- beautiful images (from the first minute to the last, esp. the opening shots to set us in a particular place and time, and the end moment that breaks your heart as we are reminded how topical the message of the story truly is), perfect editing, rethinking of the "Cool" number so it fits into the story line better, moving the "Somewhere, Somehow" number to another poignant moment and letting Moreno sing/interp it for us, casting such a diverse cast, choreography out into the streets so dance mingles with NYC streets and neighborhoods, just a beautiful, entertaining film from beginning to end. I wish I had studied and remembered my 4 years of h.s. spanish better  because there is a lot thrown around here with no subtitles -- but that's the way it is now , I've noticed, and it motivates me to go back to the books, as far as language study is concerned.  This was a 5 to me --- I really enjoyed it thoroughly, and I do believe it has a good chance winning (again) many academy awards, including best picture.  But I guess I will have to see more to make that prediction stronger.    This is a don't miss --- even if you never go see musicals because it comes across pretty seamless.  Oh, one last thing --- I have never really cared for Tony the many times I have seen the show --- in the first movie to me he was a pretty boy who could sing --- his acting and movement skills were suspect --- with "Baby Driver" Ansel Elgort, he was the complete package to me --- his voice isn't the best in the ensemble, but it's good,  he looks and talks like a possible thug, he does the full gamut here, and he drew me in emotionally --- I shed some tears at the end, and I usually don't., thanks to the strong Ensemble here, including a special nod to Rita Moreno.  Wow! 

"WEST SIDE STORY"       2 hours, 36 mins               PG-13      2021

An adaptation of the 1957 musical, West Side Story explores forbidden love and the rivalry between the Jets and the Sharks, two teenage street gangs of different ethnic backgrounds.

Director:  Steven Spielberg

Writers:  Tony Kushner (from "Angels in America") Arthur Laurents (based on his stage play)

Stars:  Ansel Elgort, Rachel Zegler, Ariana Debose, Rita Moreno, Mike Faist (Riff - great!), Brian d'Arcy James (Shrek and Something Rotten leads on broadway), Corey Stoll (Hemingway in "Midnight in Paris")

Movie #2047 ........................."The Big Leap" (Season 1 - hulu, Xfinity on demand, Fox)

 Movie #2047 "The Big Leap" - This is a show, with 10 episodes, 40+ minutes each, that we really enjoyed watching.  It is about dance, so it was on my radar anyway, but when OHS theatre alum Sharon Frye said she was doing sound for it,  and that she  was actually on screen in episodes 2, 7 and 10, we knew we had to watch it ---- and we are glad we did.  While watching episodes 7, looking for Sharon,  we were surprised who should pop up at Reggie's (the football player's) doctor but another ohs theatre alum Adam Poss!  So if you are watching this show, look for these alums, and hopefully you will  also delight in the humor of the show and the idea that  it makes fun of reality shows, BUT within the humor, the shows says a lot about how hard it is to dance, how hard it is to sustain working relationships, trust, how much media has taken over everything, dealing with cancer, grief, the sports world, reality shows, the sheer joy of dance, etc. Each show is full of  fast-paced dialogue  and cameras following people around interspersed with a lot of dance numbers --- and not shiny and new ones like in DWTS, but earthy, sometimes hip hop, sometimes ballet, with dancers not necessarily professional but very talented and passionate.  We give it 4.8 out of 5 --- it hits  a lot more than it misses.

"THE BIG LEAP"                10 episodes            40+ each                2021

A group of diverse underdogs from all different walks of life who compete to be a part of a competition reality series that is putting on a model, hip remake of "Swan Lake."

Creator:  Liz Heldens

Stars:  Scott Foley, Simone Recasner, Ser'Darius Blain, Teri Polo, Piper Perabo, John Rudnitsky, Raymond Cham, Jr

Movie #2046 ........................."Christmas for Keeps" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2046 "Christmas for Keeps" (Hallmark) -- this should have been a fun watch for me, since it is based on a group of h.s. theatre students who come back to honor their theatre director.  The idea was great, and it actually showed how much of an honor it is to have the theatre named after them (an experience that is near and dear to me, and it IS truly an HONOR) --- all that is terrific in the film, BUT the acting of the 5 kids is really bad.  And they stumble along trying to help in the ways that they can --- and that isn't too bad, but the acting really hurts this film.  That, and some of the clunky dialogue.  Too bad, because it was a very good idea, I thought.  I'd give it 3 out of 5.

"CHRISTMAS FOR KEEPS"   hallmark    1 hour and 24 mins        2021

At Christmas time, a close-knit group of childhood friends returns home after 10 years to take part in the celebration of life of their beloved high school teacher.

Director:  Fred Berger

Writer:  Megan McNulty

Stars:  Christa B. Allen, Ryan Rottman, Marielle Scott

Movie #2045 ........................."Christmas House 2: Deck Those Halls" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2045 "Christmas House 2:  Deck Those Halls" (Hallmark)  The first one was fun --- nice strong parental couple (Sharon Lawrence and Treat Williams) put a call in to their two sons (one a big actor of courtroom drama) to come to the house for one last Christmas because they are selling the place --- okay, the actor son ended up with the house, but now  in this part 2, he is asked to be in a contest to decorate his house verses someone else doing it --- the other famous person poops out at christmas time, so the powers that be decide it would be fun to pit brother against brother -- not really, unless you have a messy christmas gathering, which almost happens.  All the people are capable here, but the story is slight and pretty silly.  One plus is that it really isn't centered on boy/girl love --- in fact, one couple is gay but what it focuses on (like Frozen) is sibling love.  I give it 3.8 out of 5.

"CHRISTMAS HOUSE 2;  DECK THOSE HALLS"    Hallmark     one hour and 24 mins     2021

The Mitchell brothers compete to see who can create the best Christmas House.

Director:  Rich Newey

Writers: Erin Rodman, Robert Buckley

Stars:  Robert Buckley, Ana Ayora, Treat Williams

 

Movie #2044 ........................."'Tis the Season to be Merry" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2044 "Tis the Season to Be Merry" (Hallmark)  Despite the rushed ending , the two leads in this were wining, and there was cute stage business to keep them working together...........the gimmick here is the irony that this woman (Rachael Leigh Cook, one of my favorite Hallmark female actors) who is supposedly an expert on relationships of the heart writes a book suggesting she has found her soulmate ---- a lie!  Little does she know that if she throws away her rules, she might get closer to finding that special someone who is in the world designed for her.  I'd give this 4 out of 5.

"'TIS THE SEASON TO BE MERRY"    1 hour and 24 mins    2021

Director:  Gary Yates

Writers:  Jen Kirkman, Duane Poole

Stars:"  Rachael Leigh Cook, Travis Van Winkle, Karen Malina White

Movie #2043 ........................"Christmas Takes Flight" (CBS)

 Movie #2403 "Christmas Takes Flight" (CBS)  I found this a good story with an interesting conflict.  Female pilot whose family owns the business butts heads with a stereotypical jerky CEO who can see nothing but numbers.   the first major decision he makes after taking over is to get rid of the very popular and successful charity project they do for little kids at Christmas time ---- not a good idea, and the pilot tries to keep it going ---- We really hate the CEO for more than 3/4's of the film, and for this to work, he has to have a definitive moment where he changes --- not sure that was there.  But what sustained interest for me in this film was the very capable actress playing the female pilot ---if she likes him, she brings us along --- Still the film falls a bit short....because of him, mostly.  3.5 out of 5.

"CHRISTMAS TAKES FLIGHTS"      CBS    2021      1 hour and 26 mins

Matt, a number-crunching CEO, purchases Jenny's family-owned, regional airline.  Matt's cost-cutting initiatives threaten Christmas when he cancels the airline's annual holiday charitable benefit for underserved children.

Director:  Michael Robison

Writer:  Dinah Eng

Stars:  Evan Williams, Katie Lowes (from Scandal) , Lucia Waltersw

Movie #2042 ........................."Crashing through the Snow" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2402 "Crashing through the Snow" (Hallmark)  I really enjoyed this film --- it had an astonishing amount of information about how families work together, especially divorced ones --- trying to give equal time to everyone, while still being somewhat divided, not all living together.  This was a funny movie, with different stage business done while two blended families are kind of stuck together so the kids have the best christmas ever -- lots of different stuff done, planned by the future step-mother, while the biological mother is staying over at the same big estate --- and then the writers decide to add one more person to the mixed group --- future stepmother's brother, and who takes the biological mother under his wing and makes it a contest at first :  stepmother vs biological mother --- but everyone learns quite quickly that it takes a village to raise kids --- I thought it was very realistic in the various discussions the family members have in trying to deal with a split family.  I also like the ending of the film --- it isn't your typical hallmark "thing" --- I don't want to say any more, except this is one of the better ones of the 2021 group, in my opinion.  5 out of 5.

"CRASHING THROUGH THE SNOW"   Hallmark    2021      1 hour and 24 mins

Maggie and Sam are crashing Christmas.  When he proposes that they team up against his sister's perfect Christmas, neither of them are prepared for the blended family challenges that lie ahead.

Director:  Rich Newey

Writer:  Tamar Maddy

Stars:  Amy Acker, Warren Christie, Brooke Nevin

Movie #2041 ........................."Angela's Christmas " (netflix)

 Movie #2041 “Angela’s Christmas” (netflix) What an adorable short film for you and your little kids to watch, rich in emotion and sentiment at Christmas time.   Based on the writer Frank McCourt’s book “Angela and the Baby Jesus,” it concerns a very poor  little girl who kidnaps the baby jesus from her church because she thinks he is cold.  I give it a 5 — a nice experience for little kids to watch something with Irish accents, and such a wonderful story so well told.  Very touching.

“ANGELA’S CHRISTMAS”     30 mins    2017      G

Set in Ireland in the 1910s, "Angela's Christmas is a funny, heart-warming and poignant story about the power of family and the innocent desire of a child to ensure everyone is safe, warm and loved at Christmas time.

Director:  Damien O'Connor

Writers:  Will Collins, Frank McCourt , Damien O'Connor

Stars:  Malachi McCourt (voice), Ruth Negga (voice), Vivian Drew (voice)

Movie #2040 ........................."Finch" (Apple t.v.)

 Movie #2040 "Finch" (Apple TV) - Tom Hanks sharing screen time with only a dog and a talking robot --- but that isn't new fore the more than capable Tom Hanks  --- he could be stranded on an island alone and just talk to a Wilson, a basketball -- Wait!  He did that already.  Okay, so this isn't new ground for him, but lots more is expected of him --- coughing up a lung, is one --- walking in hurricane weather is another --- it's a strong performance for him, and he does it well.  Now for the story --- it's science Fiction, and most is hard to believe, esp. with what the robot can do.  But it is a good movie for our time right now because science is the answer --- follow the science.  I'd give it 3.5, longer than needed to be, I felt.

"FINCH"   apple t.v.    1 hour and 55 minutes                 2021     PG-13

On a post-apocalyptic earth, a robot, built to protect the life of his creator's beloved dog, learns about life, love...friendship and what it means to be human.  

Director:  Miguel Sapochnik

Writers:  Craig Luck , Ivor Powell 

Cast:  Tom Hanks, Caleb Landry (jeff, the robot), Seamus (Goodyear, the dog)

Movie #2039 ........................."Dickens of a Holiday" (Hallmark)

Movie #2039 "Dickens of a Holiday" Hallmark ---Finally, a 5 out of 5!  Of course, it would be about Dickens and theatre, right?  I enjoyed the humor, esp. the male lead (he is one of my favorites, so I try to watch all of his films) The woman is an actor (wanna be broadway, but never made it there) who comes back to her hometown of Dickens to direct their traditional (and much loved and respected) "A Christmas Carol" --- but wouldn't you know it, the lead comes down with laryngitis, and she all of a sudden needs a guy to play the lead (and of course, some bigwigs are coming to see her work so it better be good) --- voila, a big Dwayne Johnson kind of actor of action films, who attended the same school and did theatre with the woman director , wants to prove he can do something else so he volunteers for the role --- I don't want to say any more, but it ends up to be quite good, and a lot is said about theatre, acting, dickens, listening to other people, etc.  I give it a 5 out of 5.

"DICKENS OF A HOLIDAY"      HALLMARK      one hour and 24 mins     2021

To make the 100th anniversary of her hometown's Victorian festival a success, Cassie invites action movie star and former h.s. classmate Jake to play in "A Christmas Carol."

Director:  Paul Ziller

Writers:  Mark Hefti, Julie Sherman Wolfe

Stars:  Brooke D'Orsay, Kristoffer Polaha, Max Archibald

 

Movie #2038 ........................." A Royal Queen's Christmas" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2038 "A Royal Queens Christmas" (Hallmark)

This is kind of a funny, far-fetched one, but it won my heart --- not sure why.  It takes place in Queens, so  everyone talks with thick overdone Queens accents, but then this Prince (from nearby?) who looks like a Hugh Jackman/Jake Gyllenhal lookalike, sporting his own accent comes to Queens to get away from a kingdom he is suppose to take over (but he is unhappy about it) so of course he runs away to Queens to he to play boogie boogie on  the piano --- I know, sounds silly, but it works for him because he is so dreamy looking that you believe almost anything. Like this:    after knocking her over in a restaurant and causing bakery damage (you have to see it to understand),  he volunteers to play for her (girl from queens) kids' choir.  This is a totally unbelievable and overdone premise, but the two leads won  me over.  I'd give it a 4.  Silly, but fun!

"A ROYAL QUEENS CHRISTMAS"      Hallmark      1 hour and 24 mins

A prince finds his way to Queens during Christmas when a local woman enlists his help with a children's Christmas show.  (hmm)

Director:  Lee Friedlander

Writers: Steven Peterman, Gary Dontzig, Lee Friedlander (teleplay)

Stars:  Megan Park, Julian Morris, Michael Hanrahan

Movie #2037 ........................."Our Christmas Journey" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2037 "Our Christmas Journey"  (Hallmark)  This movie stands out because it deals with a child on the autism spectrum --- and a mother who is used to homeschooling and taking care of him but finds he wants to strike out on his own since he is now 17 --- and a sister who feels she has always been in the background ---- and an ex who up until now has been in the background.  The ex finds a place for the boy, much to the mother's dislike, and convinces the family to celebrate Christmas there --- without spending much time with the boy, but more hovering next-door in a motel and watching from afar.  I liked the storyline very much because it was different from the others, and it took its time developing the story line and the characters, esp. the autistic boy who doesn't speak, well, he has his own way of communicating.  It was a nice job showing the subject from all angles --- the overprotective mom, the autistic kid who wants to go it alone, the daughter trying to deal with having a brother who gets more attention than she gets, a place that offers such a nice program for the autistic children, and even a family of two that is trying to deal with the death of one of its members.  I'd give it a 4 and recommend it.

"OUR CHRISTMAS JOURNEY"     Hallmark      1 hour and 20 mins      2021

As a single mom and her autistic son come to a crossroad during Christmas, she must learn to let go so he can flourish as she finds her own heart healing in unexpected ways.

Director:  Kevin Fair

Stars:  Holly Robinson Peete, Lyriq Bent, Hilda Martin

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Movie #2036 ........................."A Very Merry Bride" (Hallmark)

Movie #2036 "A Very Merry Bride" Hallmark - It is not unusual to build a christmas movie around a wedding --- then there is automatic stage business, which I enjoy --- I've always liked weddings.  And all that stuff is here --- the difference is a manufactured idea that the sister of the groom has a birthday at christmas when the brother and his fiancé have chosen to be wedded......so the way the best man who always had a crush on the sister worms his way back in (they were childhood friends)  is to remember it is her birthday and to keep planning things to do besides the wedding planning --- so this gets kind of busy, what with her  birthday activities AND the  wedding activities AND the  Christmas activities!  Whew!  To top all of that, both the guy and girl are kind of quiet people --- so that makes the film stand out a bit --- they both make their parts their own; they don't overact, and  they help make the story believable --- it is interesting to see a couple really listen to each other ,and as she says, he "sees" her and you can't beat that kind of love story.  I liked it.  4 out of 5.

P.S.  watch until the very end --- the last joke is the best.

"A VERY MERRY BRIDE"      HALLMARK    1 hour and 24 mins (everything is this year - must be the rule to follow)

Leah's 30th birthday is on the same day as her brother's wedding.  Her childhood crush is back in town for the wedding and he is determined to make sure her birthday does not go by the wayside.

Director:  David I. Strasser

Writers:  Tracy Andreen, Elena Valdez

Stars:  Emily Osment, Casey Deidrick, Patch May

Movie #2035 ..........................."Sister Swap, Part 2: Christmas in the City" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2035 "Sister Swap, Part 2:  Christmas in the City" (Hallmark) - as I said above, this is film that focuses on Ashley Williams, with scenes repeated that Kim shared with her in Part I --- the guy in this one is a co-worker, manager of the Umber Sprig, Kim's restaurant -- together they are like oil and water so you know something has to give, and Ashley is too powerful, so guess what?  the Manager guy loosens up a bit --- maybe too much to believe.  This one is about getting a new cook and getting ready for some contest --- the pacing is start and stop a lot, and it tends to ramble, and as a viewer we just focus on Ashley doing her whimsical things and that keeps us watching.  I'd give this last a 3.5 ---once again, actresses are too good for the story.

"SISTER SWAP:  CHRISTMAS IN THE CITY"        HALLMARK    2021

IMDB:  Two sisters and a holiday adventure.  (that should tip the viewer off to a weak script)

Director:  Sean McNamara

Writers:  Erik Patterson, Jessica Scott, Claire Boyles

Stars:  Ashley Williams, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Keith D Robinson

Movie# 2034 "Sister Swap - Part 1: A Hometown Holiday" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2034 "Sister Swap - Part 1: A Hometown Holiday" (Hallmark) -- I didn't realize that two of my favorite actresses in these Hallmark xmas movies were actually sisters:  Kimberly Williams (the bride in Steve Martin's version of "Father of the Bride") and Ashley Williams.  When I saw they were together in a two part movie, I was excited to see both of them --- excitement waned when I followed the script in the movie --- these two actresses are way better than the story that was told in these films.  I also didn't care for the format --- They told the story by following one of the sisters in this one (Kimberly) and the Part 2 one with the other (Ashley).  As a result, we saw same scenes replayed with a little bit of a tweak because the point of view changed ---- but it took me a little while to figure that out --- and if you are like me and watch quite a few of these films, the format they used caused confusion for me --- I almost turned it off several times because I felt I had seen the film already --- I had but just a little bit of a difference.  It made the story long and I really didn't care about the movie theatre or the restaurant that much --- the movie just seemed to use a lot of stage business to keep the actors busy going from one thing to another and the pay off wasn't worth the wait -- no surprises really....except for the surprise that they didn't overlap well at all.  I would give this one a 3;.5 --- fun to watch the sisters and the way they are comfortable working together, and Ashley is so whimsical of a character, and sometimes Hallmark holds her back, but this one, they let her go and she's the delight of both films really.  Story, not so good.

"SISTERSWAP - PART 1:  A HOMETOWN HOLIDAY"    hallmark     2021

two sisters and a holiday to remember --- (that's all IMDB wrote)

I would have added:  Part I focuses on Kimberly, who usually runs a restaurant in a place about 2 hours away (just a guess) , switches places with Ashley, who works with her folks at the hometown bakery.  Instead of worrying about the bakery, though, she worries about the movie theatre that her uncle dave owned --- she and her son and of course a good looking guy and his daughter help her out with the effort.

Director:  Sean McNamara

Writers:  Erik Patterson, Jessica Scott, Claire Boyles

Stars:  Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Mark Deklin, Ashley Williams

Movie #2033 ........................."Making Spirits Bright" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2033 "Making Spirits Bright" (Hallmark) I wasn't going to watch this one because I thought it was just another contest between two warring families, but I was wrong.  Yes, the girl from one family  is clearly in love with the guy in the other --- they go way back, grew up together, so they have been friends already ---- and their dads were, too; in fact, they were partners in a decorating organization called "making spirits bright" until one of the fathers seemed to be in it more for money than the other --- that broke them up.  Now they are in competition for top honors in their home town for Christmas --- when it is clear that BOTH of them won't make the finals, through some urging on their kids' part, they decide to combine forces to beat the techno geek they are competing with --- the techno geek just does lights, loud music and rocks the lights to the beat --- a cookie cutter approach vs. what they want to do, putting  more thought and effort into it --- and they do, and you can guess the ending, but the story along the way was interesting, so I'd give this a 4 --- I like the idea of two warring groups coming together and finding common ground --- I wish this was mandatory to see for all the people in Congress.  

"MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT" (HALLMARK)     1 hour and 24 mins                  2021    TV-G

Grace and Tony are from two separate families who are in the business of decorating homes for Christmas.  Unfortunately they have also been in feud for as long as anyone can remember.  But this holiday season they must try to find a way to get everyone to work together in order to win a town competition that could save their livelihoods.

Director:  David Bercovici-Artieda

Stars:  Taylor Cole, Carlo Marks, Sarah Sure

Movie #2032 ........................."Eight Gifts of Hannukkah" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2032 "Eight Gifts of Hannukkah)"  (Hallmark)  I was fully invested in this one , and it is my favorite , so far this year.  Of course, most people know from the first 3 minutes who the guy would be who was surprising her with gifts, but what I was guessing was what the gifts would be ---surprising to us, three quarters of the way through we find  out anyway who the gift giver is because he confirms it to someone , but it's fun to see when she finally figures it out --- and there's a nice, not too schmaltzy end scene. I'd give this a 5 out of 5 and highly recommend it.  It made me want to celebrate this holiday instead of Christmas  - it looks like so much fun that stretches out over days instead of our one day event!

"EIGHT GIFTS OF HANNUKKAH"  Hallmark  2021 

An anonymous suitor sends optometrist Sara a gift for each night of Hannukkah.  On her journey to find her secret admirer, she learns her one true love might be someone she never expected.

Director:  Mark Jean

Writers:  Karen Berger (teleplay), Donald Martin (story )

Stars:  Inbar Lavi, Jake Epstein, Sheila Tyson

Movie #2031 ........................."An Unexpected Christmas" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2031 "An Unexpected Christmas" (Hallmark) --- there have been a lot of stories with the guy (or girl) posing as a boyfriend or girlfriend and we know how that ends, but this was a bit different --- yeah, the premise is a bit silly that they have to pretend they haven't broken up and yet haven't seen each other in several months - you'd think the rest of the family would have picked up on that, but the guy is really quiet (almost too quiet in the high point when the audience is yelling, "Tell her how you feel---geez!  what are you waiting for?"  Probably he's waiting for the  the last couple of minutes) and she's so bubbly and amiable and the family loves her --- perhaps prefers her over their son......  so it's kind of different from the usual fare on this topic!  the reason she puts up with it is on a promise that he will provide the entertainment for the event she is planning --- once again, not the best of ideas, but what's winning here is the two leads and their watchability and also, it's the Christmas season and the couple is worried about ruining the family's holiday.  --- One other redeemable quality is  there's something about both of them that is entertaining to watch.  For that reason, I'd give this a 4, even though the premise is hard to believe.  At least, the characters and their reasons for breaking up and then coming back together are believable.

"AN UNEXPECTED CHRISTMAS"    Hallmark  2021          1 hour and 23 mins

Jamie (Hynes) hasn't told his family that he and his now ex-girlfriend Emily (Lenz) broke up.  After an inopportune run-in with Emily at the train station in his hometown, Jamie convinces her to pretend they're still a couple to avoid ruining Christmas for his family.  Jamie and his family engage in a week-long ruse of engaging in his family's holiday activities together .  While they're stuck in his family's home together, the pair discovers their relationship might still have some potential, resulting in a very unexpected Christmas. 

Director:  Michael Robinson

Writers:  Paul Campbell, Gregory McGoon (story by)

Stars:  Tyler Hynes, Bethany Jody Lenz, Alison Wandzura    

Movie #2030 ........................."Christmas in Tahoe" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2030 "Christmas in Tahoe" (Hallmark)  Maybe it's just me, but Tahoe?  If I had a choice, I'd pick Ireland or Scotland.  However, what this one has going for it is two very good looking central leads.  Laura Osnes, a Broadway star (in real life) plays a woman who wants to go up the ladder to more professional bookings in venues rather than her father's private one--- the good looking guy wants to be a composer and is taken for granted in his rock band.   Story is weak..... with nothing really new here at all.  Two people trying to follow their dreams (because these darn Hallmark films preach that) but then fall in love and uh oh.  Their dreams may take them in different directions.  So how are we gonna figure this one out --- does one have to give in?  Can't  they both be happy?  Can't Hallmark figure this one out?  The only reason to watch this one is to bask in the cuteness of the two leads.  But why oh why did a movie on music not allow Osnes to sing?  3 out of 5.

"CHRISTMAS IN TAHOE"  (HALLMARK)  1 HOUR AND 23 MINS     2021

The film follows Claire, an aspiring talent booker, as feelings come back between her and her boyfriend after looking for his help to be her big act at her family's hotel and casino, and realize they may need each other more than they remembered.  

Director:  Robert Lieberman

Writers:  Nina Weinman, Zach Lewis, Stephanie Jackson

Stars:  Laura Osnes, Kyle Selig, Pat Monahan

Movie #2029 ........................."Time for Them to Come Home for Christmas" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2029 "Time for Them to Come Home for Christmas" (Hallmark)  - Isn't it about time for a good old amnesia Hallmark Christmas film? I think so, and this one fits the bill --- and it was very good, too.  The story is layered --- it is part mystery not only on the central woman's life, but on the guy-nurse , as well ---- They have immediate chemistry, but then the love story has conflict in that both are uncomfortable about the past and not sure about the future ---- oh, yeah, lots of angst in this one, but it really works because the two central people are so darn authentic.  The story is well balanced and well shown.  I'd give it 4.5 out of 5.   But even without amnesia, the title is totally forgettable and cumbersome!

"TIME FOR THEM TO COME HOME FOR CHRISTMAS"  (HALLMARK)   1 hour and 24 mins  2021

During the holidays, a woman with amnesia catches a ride with her handsome nurse to investigate the only clue to her identity.

Director:  Peter Benson

Writer:  Marcy Holland

Stars:  Jesus Schram, Brendan Penny, Brendon Zub

Movie #2028 ............................"A Castle for Christmas" (Netflix)

 Movie #2028 "A Castle for Christmas" (Netflix)  After watching the previous one, I kind of wanted to know how netflix would deal with the castle story, so voila!  I came across this one with Brooke Shields being an author who has writer's block so she takes off for Scotland and meets up with Cary Elwes (the lead  in "Men in Tights") who wants to rip her off for her money but not really sell the place to her ---  just drive her away after he gets the deposit ---- he has a good reason.  The scenery is great --- the friends she makes are really cool.  This film made me feel bad that we never stepped into a Scottish pub while we were there --- too busy walking around around places, I guess.  The pub has the most fun scenes, for sure. The opening was a bit overdone on Brooke's part, mugging as she can do --- but after a while, that simmered down and it was fun to watch.  I'd give it a 4 out of 5 and recommend it.

"A CASTLE FOR CHRISTMAS"     NETFLIX    2021     1 hour and 38 mins      

To escape a scandal, a bestselling author journeys to Scotland, where she falls in love with a castle and faces off with the grumpy duke who owns it.

Director:  Mary Lambert

Writers:  Ally Carter, Kim Beyer-Johnson

Stars:  Brooke Shields, Cary Elwes, Lee Ross

Movie #2027 ........................."Christmas at Castle Hart" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2027 "Christmas at Castle Hart" (Hallmark)  Ireland, horseback riding, a drop dead gorgeous castle and guy who live in it -- and Lacey Chabert?  What could go wrong.  Kept my attention through the whole implausible thing --- the premise was weak ---- the secondary girl had a bit more to do in this one, which is nice..... but all that doesn't really matter when you have the ingredients at the top of this blog --- 4.5 out of 5.  I am a sucker for Ireland and good looking castle dwellers who have nothing to do but follow Lacey around carrying her bags and telling her how beautiful she is!

"CHRISTMAS AT CASTLE HARTE" (HALLMARK)  1 hour and 24 mins      2021

Brooke Bennett goes to Ireland for Christmas to search for her Irish roots.  While there, she meets Aiden Hart.  Mistaken for an elite event planner , she's hired to host his castle's epic Christmas party.

Director Stefan Scaini

Writers:  Bonnie Fairweather (story), Paul Campbell (teleplay), Rick Garman (teleplay)

Stars:  Lacey Chabert, Stuart Townsend, Ali Hardiman

Movie #2026 ........................."The Nin Kittens of Christmas" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2026 " The Nine  Kittens of Christmas" (Hallmark)

This is like a sequel to the previous one entitled "Nine Lives of Christmas"  --- which is a bit weird in Hallmark Land, at least to me.  When we watch the credits roll in all of these films, we assume the two found their soulmates and they live happily ever after.  But wait!  This film suggests they broke up and are remeeting --- what is that about?  and over cats......again?  Really? You mean after watching all the angst and conflict for  two hours (with a boatload of commercials we have to sit through) , we are to think that divorce or breakups are a possibility?  Unheard of.  Anyway, this one deals with cats......again.  She's a vet, he's still a firefighter, and they have time in the xmas season to find a home for all 9 of these kittens. I like the couple, and hope for darn sure that they DO stay together now, even if it is just for those cats!  But  I'd give it a 3 out of 5.  

"THE NINE  KITTENS OF CHRISTMAS"  (Hallmark)   1 hour and 24 mins     2021

Zachary and Marilee are thrown back together again at Christmas when they're tasked with finding homes for a litter of adorable kittens.  (adorable is a word that is questionable here)

Director:  David Winning

Writer:  Erin Dobson

Stars:  Kimberly Sustad, Brandon Routh, Gregory Harrison

Movie #2025 ........................."Christmas CEO" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2025 "Christmas CEO" (Hallmark) This was a new girl I wasn't acquainted with yet in Hallmark Land, but I came out liking her in this film.  These two were childhood friends who decided together they both liked making toys so they would go into business together.  But then the guy accused the girl of worrying just about money and they haven't talked in 7 years.  Now, in order to sell her business and become a CEO in a merger, she finds she needs to get his signature to proceed.  Ah!  Therein, lies the conflict --- hurt feelings, several years of not talking, he obviously has had a crush on her from the get go.... I liked it mostly because the story worked --- I learned a little  about being a CEO of a toy company -- how using  high pressure when  making toys doesn't make the best toys at all.  They can be rather simple (as most parents know) and still be fun to play with --- and may even be better because they can push the creative juices of the kid.  Anyway, I'd give this a 4.5 because it stands out a bit with its story line and the two leads.  4.5 out of 5

"CHRISTMAS CEO"    (Hallmark")  2021    1 hour and 24 minutes

A small toy company CEO gets a once in  lifetime offer to merge with a mega toy company but will need her estranged ex-business partner's signature to seal the deal.

Director:  Jonathan Wright

Writers:  Sharon Price John (concept)  Anna White

Star:  Mariol Nichols, Paul Greene, Veronica Marin-Etrada

Movie #2024 .........................."A Kiss Before Christmas" (Hallmark)

 Movie #2024 "A Kiss Before Christmas" (Hallmark)  This was billed a reunion of sorts between Terri Hatcher and her hubby from Wisteria Lane ("Desperate Housewives) and it was nice to see them together again.  The irony is that they are only married for a short time because this is one of those magical time travel films (there are so many that it is becoming a second genre here in Hallmark land) where if he chooses another route to live, he'd have a Porsche, a driver, a drop dead gorgeous house....you get the idea, but no family. However, he still meets her in his other life --- she's a lawyer, and she is falling in love with him, so really what it comes down to is his kids.    So there's a bit of a twist there --- then when he decides to go back it is really for the kids and to support his wife whose dream is to become a lawyer.  I bet you can guess what he decides to do ---- but I'm not sure everyone would want to go back because his life is pretty good..... monetarily, and isn't that what most people shoot for?  (pretty cynical for Hallmark, I know)  Anyway, it worked because the two of them work well together, and it has a nice ending --- it's nice to see a good guy once in a while --- well, not  unusual in Hallmark films, but you know what I mean.  I give it a 4 out of 5.

"A KISS BEFORE CHRISTMAS"      1 hour and 23 mins                  2021

Ethan is a married father with two teens.  He wakes up one morning and is shocked to find he isn't married, he doesn't have kids, and he's CEO of his company.  His wife is the key to be able to reclaim his original life and family.  

Director:  Jeff Beesley

Writers:  Mark Amato and Tracy Andreen - teleplay

Stars:  James Denton, Terri Hatcher, Marilu Henner

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