Movie #3180 ........................."The Boys in the Boat" (movie theater)

 Movie #3180 "The Boys in the Boat" (movie theater) I really liked this movie (the audience score on rotten tomatoes is high, so many people must agree with me) , and I enjoyed the book, as well.  I would have wanted more info on the characters, so that by the end of the film we would be able to pick out the 8 kids on the rowing team, but that doesn't happen.  Clooney, the director, had to make some decisions as to what would be involved in the story, and he mostly covered the immense task the coach (played by a very quiet Joel Edgerton) had with finding his team that would save his coaching career --- and out of a bunch of Washington University kids who knew nothing about rowing.  So he focuses on  the prepping, and two big races that led up to the Olympic one with Hitler in attendance in Germany.  That filled the two hours worth of film time, but I just felt the dialogue could be more involved --- People only spoke to each other occasionally, and it seemed a very quiet film, as far as dialogue.  Music filled the quiet moments.  Anyway, at the end of the movie there was applause, and i can't remember being in a theatre where the audience was so involved in a race that they cheer when the underdog wins -- and that happened here.  Critics have panned the film for being formulaic, but maybe it's fun occasionally to see a movie that is easy to follow, has a good story and roots for the underdog.  And this one does all that.  i'd give it a 4 out of 5 and recommend it.

"THE BOYS IN THE BOAT"  a 1930s - set story centered on the University of Washington's rowing team, from their depression-era beginnings to winning gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics.

Director:  George Clooney

Writers:  Daniel James Brown, Mark L. Smith

Actors:  Joel Edgerton, Callum Turner, Peter Guinness

Movie #3179 ........................."Maestro" (Netflix)

 Movie #3179 "Maestro"  (Netflix)  I was really anxious to see this one --- big Bernstein fan, big Bradley Cooper fan, Big Carey Mulligan fan, but it left me pretty cold.  I was never pulled into it --- I felt it always kept its distance, except for Carey Mulligan --- this may just win her the Oscar (which I thought she deserved in "Promising Young Woman" a few years ago).  She does the whole gamut here, and had to learn a particular accent portraying the wife originally from Costa Rica, who was raised in Chile where she went to British schools, and lived for a short time in Santiago before coming to America, so it was a bit of a mixed accent expected of her.  I don't know if I was supposed to feel this way, but while watching I thought her story was even more captivating.....doing the acting thing, supporting her husband and helping him with his career, while raising two girls, and the biggest role:  putting up with all of his eccentricities and obsessions and helping him with all of his anxieties and stress.  That has to wear on the woman, and that's what I got mostly out of this film.  I think the viewer spends some time with Bernstein getting to stop seeing Bradley Cooper (and that takes a while to get used to that) . He does a wonderful job but there's a lot of staring and thinking on his part, and less talking things out --- so it was harder to get to know him.  There's a long passage where he is just using his baton --- I applaud the guts of the  director to have the audience watch the man with the prop  that long in this scene, but I wanted to understand even more in that scene what I was supposed to be getting out of it.  It could be just me, but I guess I wanted more info and help to understand the man behind that baton.  The acting is good, but there's something in the way the film is presented to us that pushed me more away , than drew me in.  I'd give it a 3.8 and say I respect the film, but I wish it made me think and feel even more than it did.  

"MAESTRO"     R RATED      2 hours and 9 mins         2023

This love story chronicles the lifelong relationship of conductor-composer Leonard Bernstein and actress Felicia Montealegre Cohn Bernstein.

Director:  Bradley Cooper

Writers:  Bradley Cooper, Josh Singer

Actors:  Carey Mulligan, Bradley Cooper, Matt Bomer

Movie # 3178 ........................."Archie" (Brit Box)

 Movie #3178 "Archie" (Brit Box)  Archibald Leach was Cary Grant's real name before changing it for Hollywood, and that's kind of part of the focus on Grant  shown in  this limited series about him, based on  Dyan Cannon's book.    The set up is a Q and A he did in Joliet, Illinois, at the Realto, towards the end of his life.  Through questions to him, the story goes back to his upbringing (parents were a huge influence on the rest of his life), his brief beginnings of work on stage, his break into Hollywood, quick glances at wives previous to Dyan Cannon, and then his life with Cannon, and a short stint about his last wife and his relationship with his daughter after Cannon and he called it quits.   His mantra here --- he just always wanted to find someone who loved him for himself, and being a famous icon brought in a lot of people who just worked around him without caring really FOR him.  His mother had a strong hold on him, almost obsessive, but it didn't seem like a true, healthy love at all....as a result he played "Cary Grant" -- the consummate likable guy , low key, suave and cool and sophisticated in most situations, but it wasn't necessarily how he was deep down inside.  It's a nice look at this complex person, and I recommend it.  I just wanted to see even more than  just his relationship with Dyan Cannon and his daughter, but that was the focus here.  3.8 out of 5.

"ARCHIE"     4 episodes, each about 45 mins.  2023  

Four- part drama depicting the life of Hollywood's greatest leading man, Archibald Alexander Leach - aka Cary Grant.

Director:  Paul Andrew Williams

Writers:  Dyan Cannon, Jeff Pope

Movie #3177 ........................."Checkin' it Twice" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3177 "Checkin' it Twice" (Hallmark)  From the Get go, I  felt I had seen this before, but I think I had just seen the ending.  Not much here, unless you like to watch some hockey, or hear discussions about it --- because the girl's  whole family, including her, know stats about players, etc.  and the guy's life is all hockey, and he's working for that big (Bull Durham) break to get up to the "Show" --- big times.  You can probably guess what happens when he's offered still another step  up the ladder  towards the end of this film --- he isn't getting any younger, so decisions need to be made on what he will do.  I got used to the two of them acting  together, so that seemed to work, but the story was ho hum -- and in this one, in 2023, there was a snowball fight!  but I hadn't seen one up until now, so that's saying a lot for Hallmark trying to shake things up more --- this one doesn't.  I'd give it a 3 out of 5.

"CHECKIN' IT TWICE"    Hallmark     2023      1 hour and 24 mins

A journeyman hockey player falls for a real estate agent in a career crisis when he's traded to her hometown and moves into the cottage in her hockey-loving family's backyard.

Director:  Kevin Fair

Writer:  Steve Beauregard

Actors:  Kim Matula, Kevin McGarry, Brittany Mitchell

Movie #3176 ........................."Time for Her to Come Home for Christmas" (Hallmark)

Movie #3176 "Time for Her to Come Home for Christmas" (Hallmark)  This movie was about a music teacher who is summoned to work with a church's very bad choir --- so it was partly interesting to me because I enjoying watching people learn to sing along with others, etc.  And the music teacher had some good gimmicks to get them going -- it was hard to believe in a few minutes , and her small amount of tactics, that they turned out to sing as well as they did, but that's Halmarkian.  There was also a nice through line of mystery as to why SHE was asked to come all the way to this small town.  And a mystery as to who will get the lead guy (well, kind of), so those two lines and the story kept me watching.  But it was just okay.  It was pretty low key, with very few highs.  I'd give it a 3.5 out of 5.

"TIME FOR HER TO COME HOME FOR CHRISTMAS"      2023    1 hr and 24 mins

Carly heads to a small town to lead a church choir at Christmastime, facing her first holiday season without her mother.  While there, she connects with a man back in town after serving in the army.

Director:  Ali Liebert (ooh, an actress in "Friends and Family"

Writers:  Marcy Holland, Dorothy Shackleford, Travis Thrasher

Actors:  Shenae Grimes -Beech, Chris Carmack, Grace Leer

Movie #3175 ........................"A Fabled Holiday" (Hallmark)

Movie #3175 "A Fabled Holiday" (Hallmark)  I turned this one off the first time around because it didn't look interesting to me, but then I tried it again and stuck with it, and I'm glad I did.  But I still feel the opening is horrendous in this one --- the people talking  like they are reciting lines, and it's a bad start.  The narration then comes along and seems cold and detaches the viewer  from the story instead of bringing him/her into it.  The stage business was a bit boring, because it dealt with xmas activities the innkeepers used to keep the residents staying there involved.... the kids were pretty stilted and not the  competent acting kids we usually see in Hallmark movies.  But the ending was nice, so I'd give it a 3 out of 5.

"A FABLED HOLIDAY"        2022      1 hr and 24 mins.

Talia and her childhood best friend Anderson reunite in a curiously familiar-looking town full of Christmas spirit that restores its visitors when they need it most.

Director:  Ruby J. Munro

Writers:  E.S. Dolan Dix, Samantha Herman

Actors:  Brooke D'Orsay, Ryan Paevey, John Prowse 

Movie #3174 ........................."Merry Christmas in Bethlehem, Pa" (Hallmark)

Movie #3174 "Merry Christmas in Bethlehem, Pa" (Hallmark)  I watched this one all the way through without interruption and I really liked it a lot.  It was very emotional, had nice leads and interesting stage business with taking care of a brand new baby.....at a key part there was some singing off key (not meant to be, but ugh!) otherwise, I really enjoyed it and recommend it --- it works with the premise that you can make your mind up  rather quickly when something falls into your lap.  I give it 4.5 out of 5.

"MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM BETHLEHEM, PA"     Hallmark     2023    1 hr, 30 mins

Just before Christmas, Mary Ann adopts a baby girl to raise alone.  She and the infant spend the Christmas stuck in Bethlehem, Pa, due to bad weather.  Her only choice when the inn is full is to stay with Joe, the brother of the innkeeper.

Director:  Jeff Beesley

Writers:  Kimberly Daugherty, Laura Kampo Lennon

Actors:  Laura Vandervoort, Benjamin Ayres, Amy Groening

Movie#3173 .........................""Friends & Family Christmas" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3173 "Friends & Family Christmas"  (Hallmark) -- this is a biggie this xmas season because it focuses on a lesbian relationship, one of the first, I think, that Hallmark is presenting, and I really enjoyed the film.  I esp. liked the one woman, the hispanic, with the helicopter parents (well, at least the mom was ) --she's a photographer and decides to stay put for xmas because she wants to get this big deal and her boss feels she has to have a better resume, so she wants to work on it.  Meanwhile, her dad's friend calls her dad and wants his daughter, who recently broke up with her partner. to not be all alone  for xmas and he  wants his daughter to meet up with her.  Their first  meet up was not cute, in that they seemed like oil and water.  But then they made a deal to be each other's plus 1 at all the stuff their jobs expect them to be doing at xmas.  That was the cute idea of the film.  The rest is just doing the xmas stage business of going to parties, and festivities, taking pictures, etc.  The other girl, the blonde, was closed off and kind of snooty through a lot of the film, but it was just an appearance, we learn, as the film progresses.  She's just been hurt quite a bit , and she's a tad shy and awkward in social situations, so she grows throughout the film and becomes important to the other girl as a main support person for her and her work with photography.  I liked that the treatment of the love story didn't change much because of the gender switch, and I was happy about that.  I'd give this a 3.5.

"FRIENDS AND FAMILY"       Hallmark      1 hour and 30 mins.     2023

Overwhelmed by Christmas events and a surprise visit from her parents, photographer Dani asks lawyer Amelia for help.  Pretending to date is the perfect solution until real feelings develop.

Director:  Anne Wheeler

Writers:  Gary Goldstein, Tracy Andreen

Actors:  Humbly Gonzalez, Ali Liebert, Gabriela Reynoso

Movie #3172 ........................."Sealed with a list" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3172 "Sealed with a list" (Hallmark) This one was tough for me to get into because I disliked the guy 's character so much --- way too conceited and sure of himself, but the girl was so guy knocking him down to make him even with her, that I ended up liking the film and appreciating how different it was from others.  How?  they both push each other to be more decisive in what they want to be --- and thus, they become better just working with each other and on each other and eventually fall in love.  I would give it a 4 and recommend it.

"SEALED WITH A LIST   Hallmark    2023        1 hour and 30 mins

This holiday season, festive Carley sets out to conquer her list of abandoned resolutions from last year.  Aided by coworker Wyatt, she finds love and the confidence to chase her dreams.

Director:  Lucie Guest

Writers:  Melinda Bissmeyer, Emily Ting, Robin Gadsby

Actors:  Katie Findlay, Evan Roderick, Kelsey Mawema

Movie # 3171 ........................."Bells of St. Mary's" (TCM)

 Movie #3171 "Bells of St. Mary's" (TCM)  Of course, TCM last night showed this movie after "Going My Way" because they reminded us it is a sequel.  Crosby didn't want to do the first one because he was very Catholic and felt uncomfortable playing a priest, but winning the Oscar and enjoying the work on the first one, convinced him to play Father O'Malley in this sequel...... sequels are usually second best, but not in my book --- this is equally as good as the other.  Although I miss Barry Fitzgerald in this one, he is replaced with the inimitable Ingrid Bergman, showing she can do lighter comedy (she could do ANYTHING, in my opinion).  She is the master of elevating the small moments in a film --- with the twinkle of an eye, a small movement of an eyebrow, one tear running down her face --- she is a master to watch, for sure.  O'Malley is still the same, but this time having to tackle with several nuns who run the roost in this church.  And  the film includes a cranky  neighbor next door (Clarence from "It's a Wonderful Life" so it's hard to hate him) who wants the land the church/school is on for his parking lot --- or course, Bergman, the head nun at the church/school has designs for a new school from his business building.  And O'Malley can see both sides of the issue.  This also has a great story line, a gut wrenching emotional ending, and superlative acting.  And it rates 5+ with me, too.  Love both of these Christmas gems..... there is a hysterical little scene with youngsters playing out the Mary and Joseph story that is a must-see!  A double program of these two movies made my evening last night , and I highly recommend both to you.

"BELLS OF ST. MARY'S"    1945         2 hours and 6 mins

At a big city Catholic school, Father O'Malley and Sister Benedict indulge in friendly rivalry, and succeed in extending the school through the gift of a building.

Director:  Leo McCarey

Writers:  Dudley Nichols, Leo McCarey

Actors:  Bing Crosby, Ingrid Bergman, Henry Travers

can be streamed on pluto t.v., tube, prime video 

Crosby, Bergman nominated, along with director, and best picture, but it won one AA for sound)   

Movie #3170 ........................."Going My Way" (TCM)

 Movie #3170 "Going My Way" (TCM)  In my opinion, you couldn't find a better movie to put you in the holiday spirit than this oldie, but goodie.   I was going to catch up on more Hallmark movies last night, but I saw this was on, and there was no contest.  Even though I have seen it way too many times, I watched it last night --- again, and delighted in all the moments I remember.  For me to watch movies over again is an anomaly, so this ranks right up with the top 20 movies I have ever seen, for me to watch over and over.  It's my go-to wrapping up christmas gifts movie --- and since there are less and less to wrap up these days, I was able to watch every minute more closely --- every look that Father Fitzgibbon gives to the young upstart Father O'Malley to create this wonderful character (who won an academy award for supporting actor, I might add --- he was only person ever nominated in both lead and supporting actor roles for the same movie -- they got rid of it after this movie).  I laugh even when he enters the room, he's that cute and funny.  And the songs, the whole story, the outstanding and emotional ending... well, I could go on and on as to reasons I would give it 5+ but if you haven't seen it yet, you are in for a treat!  As old as it gets, it still works.  (won AA for best picture, director, Crosby, Barry Fitzgerald,  the song (Swingin' on a Star), film editing, and writing)

'GOING MY WAY"    1944     2 hours and 6 mins

When young Father O'Malley arrives at St. Dominic's, old Father Fitzgibbon doesn't think much of the church's newest member.

Director:  Leo McCarey

Writers:  Frank Butler, Frank Cavett, Leo McCarey

Actors:  Bing Crosby, Barry Fitzgerald, Frank McHugh

P.S. it's available on Prime Video

Movie #3169 ........................."Quiz Lady" (Hulu)

Movie #3169 "Quiz Lady" (Hulu)   Well, this was out there and different, but I found it enjoyable to watch (I'm not sure Dave liked it all that much, though)  I was impressed with how Awkwafina  completely stepped into the shoes of this no-nonsence character (even with her walk and cadence of talking) who is forced to take care of her mom and sister, who can be quite annoying ---- most of the time.  The annoying big mouthed sister is played to the hilt (and over the top, to most, I'm guessing) Sandra Oh --- I haven't seen her to a part like this before.  So with one daughter bouncing off the walls, and the other, plodding along just to keep her he'd above water, they make an interesting pair who take on a quiz show.  I honestly have to say the quiz show was in the background to me..... never pulled into that, but the interactions of these two capable women working together was enough for me to keep watching.  I'd give it a 3.5.  It isn't for everybody, I'm thinking...

"QUIZ LADY"      R      2023      HULU      1 HOUR and 39 minutes

A game-show-obsessed woman and her estranged sister work together to help cover their mother 's gambling debts.  

Director:  Jessica Yu

Writer:  Jen D'Angelo 

Actors:  Awkwafina, Sandra Oh, Will Ferrell

Movie #3168 ........................."Christmas With A Kiss" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3168 "Christmas with a Kiss" (Hallmark)  This was a good one with carnival stuff for the stage business while this woman, unsuccessful with love (set up in a very good first scene, I thought), comes to home town to help her older folks do their yearly xmas carnival for the town, and she all of a sudden meets up with an old flame, and meets up with a new guy who challenges her in every way.  Guess whom she gets?  Yep, pretty predictable, but for a while, I really didn't know which guy she would pick -- they both seemed nice, until you get to know them, like she did, even more..... I'd give it a 4.

"CHRISTMAS WITH A KISS"      HALLMARK      2023  

A woman (Morgan) returns home to help with her family's Christmas Carnival and romance ignites.  A photo journalist (Rowe) curates a surprise reunion.  

Director:  Roger M. Bobb

Writers:  Maggie Bush, Lanre Idewu

Actors:  Mishael Morgan, Ronnie Rowe, Jaime M. Callica

Movie #3167 ........................."Heaven Down Here" (Hallmark)

Movie #3167 "Heaven Down Here" (Hallmark)  This was a bit different from a normal stage-basiness-filled Hallmark Christmas Movie in that it was very talky.  It was more an "Indie" Hallmark xmas movie -- more interested in the talk and less on the snowball fights, etc.  The plot sets itself up for mostly dialogue, since it deals with a small group of people stranded in a restaurant on xmas eve, all having something in common -- they are - pretty lonely, so it works out for them to be stranded here so they can talk some things out and help each other -- and that's the xmas miracle here, and I enjoyed watching it.  This is the kind of movie that underlines the real meaning of Christmas to me.  And esp. in this world we have now, with so many people who can't get along with everyone because of pre-conceived notions of each other --- This film makes this message that much more important.  And the love story is very covert, and I appreciated that, too.  There's a twist at the end that might be too unbelievable to some, but I liked it --- it kind of cinched the ending for me, and I wholeheartedly recommend this one.  I'd score it 5.

"HEAVEN DOWN HERE"       HALLMARK       2023     1 hour and 30 mins

Inspired by Mickey Guyton's song of the same name, "Heaven Down Here" tells the story of four disparate people who find themselves stranded in a local diner on Christmas Eve when a snowstorm hits the town.

Director:  Anne Wheeler

Writers:  Shana Lloyd, Alison McKenzie

Actors:  Krystal Joy Brown, Tina Lifford, Juan Riedinger, Phylicia Rashad

 

Movie #3166 ........................."Haul Out the Holly: Lit up" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3166 "Haul Out the Holly:  Lit up" (Hallmark)  This has the funniest characters and dialogue in comparison to all the others of the 2023 crop --- It take a self deprecating tone --- i.e., it makes fun of people who go hog wild over Christmas and decorating..... and bringing in the Jolly Johnsons is a great idea , too.  It and they go overboard so much, that anyone watching will probably laugh, esp. those that never take the decorating so seriously --- which is almost everybody.  However, even if you are gungho about all of this, you would at least get ideas for your neighborhoods' xmas activities, so bottom line?  There's something for everyone in the film.  And very broad in its humor --- I like that there's a compromise by the end of the film --- compromise is the way to go, and I always applaud that. The ending is okay and could have come together sooner, for my money.  I'd give this one a 4.

"HAUL OUT THE HOLLY:  LIT UP"    Hallmark     2023    1 hour and 24 mins

Director:  Maclain Nelson

Writers:  Andy Sandberg, Christopher Sen

Actors:  Lacey Chabert, Wes Brown, Stephen Tobolowsky

Movie #3165 ........................."Magic in Mistletoe" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3165 "Magic in Mistletoe" (Hallmark)  I have always liked stories about writers, and they usually are glib and a bit secretive about what they are writing, but not ever as much of a curmudgeon as this one was --- and the reason he has for being this way didn't seem convincing --- he played a jerk through most of the movie, so it's difficult for me to see him become nicer because of this marketing person who tries to help him, but fails a lot of the first half of the film.  So by the end of the film, a question remained --- how did she fall in love with him?  what does she like about him?  when they finally talk to each other, they come across as an okay couple, but what caused the change is not really clear in the film.  I'd give it 3.5.

"MAGIC IN MISTLETOE"   Hallmark    2023   1 hour and 20 mins

Harrington is the author of a book series but commercial success has left him a bitter recluse.  As he returns to his hometown for an annual Christmas festival, he is joined by April, a publicist for the publishing house he works with.

Director:  Paula Elle

Writer:  Sky Blair

Actors:  Paul Campbell, Lyndie Greenwood

Movie # 3164 .........................."Christmas on Cherry Lane" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3164 "Christmas on Cherry Lane" (Hallmark) this was a silly premise and it was executed in  a convoluted way (1977, 1999, back and forth - confusing -- all set up to use the time for a surprise at the end -- and I didn't think it was worth it --- way too many people to keep track of).  some examples of the  silly stuff in this film:    finishing an entire kitchen, floor, cabinets, stove, etc. in a couple of hours; getting a baby that day to adopt, snowing so bad an ambulance couldn't get to this woman who was having a baby, deciding to sell your home that your children grew up in without letting them know about that..... I'd give this a 3.  I wouldn't bother going out of my way to see this one.

"CHRISTMAS ON CHERRY LANE"       HALLMARK   2023     1 hour and 30 mins

Over the holidays, three couples at different stages of their lives traverse significant life turning moments at 7 Cherry Lane.  

Director:  Gail Harvey

Writer:  Rick Garman

Actors:  Catherine Bell, Jonathan Bennett, John Brotherton

Movie #3163 ........................."Round and Round " (Hallmark)

Movie #3163 "Round and Round" (Hallmark)  this film is very very different from others --- first, it deals with Time Traveling, and the other is that the story is like "Groundhog Day" in that when the lead girl travels, she keeps going back to the same day, crashing into the same guy who is in a hurry --- and because trust is built between the two by all the time traveling, they begin to act more closely every time she relives the same day --- the plot is a bit convoluted, but I didn't look too deep to be able to enjoy it.  This one is THE most different of all the Hallmark holiday films I've seen this year, so far.  I'd give it a 4.

"ROUND AND ROUND"     HALLMARK      2023    1 hour and 30 mins

Rachel's stuck in a time loop, reliving the night of her [arents' Hanukkah party.  Can Zach, the "nice boy" Grandma's trying to see her up with, help her make it to tomorrow?

Director:  Stacey N. Harding

Writer:  Tamar Lady

Actors:  Vic Michaelis, Bryan Greenberg, Rick Hoffman

Movie #3162 ........................."Naughty or Nice" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3162 "Naughty or Nice" (Hallmark)  - This one was a bit silly to me when I put it on -- and it had some magical santa and I usually dodge those films but the "Family Ties" mom and dad were in it, so I thought I would stick with it a bit longer.  After a while, there was less silliness and magic, so it got better.  It did have heart and a strong through line.  Everyone has a naughty and nice side on Santa's list, and the film points that out clearly.  I'd give this one a 3.

"NAUGHTY OR NICE"    Hallmark   2011     1 hour and 23 mins

A down-on-her-luck advertising executive becomes the custodian of Santa's famous 'Naughty or Nice' list.

Director:  David Mackay

Writer:  Rickie Castaneda

Actors:  Hilarie Burton, Matt Dallas, Gabriel Tigerman

Movie #3161 .........................."Holiday Road" (Hallmark)

Movie #3161 "Holiday Road" (Hallmark)  This is one of the best this holiday season -- why?  it is very different.  Not the seat up, because there are a lot of movies that have people stranded at an airport, but I can' remember one where 6 or so people all decide to rent a van and do a road trip --- and along the way, you are made to feel liken of them, because with equal time, all their stories are told.  That's good to get a well rounded story, but it is a detriment to building the two leads' love story.  Things happen a bit too quick at the end for them, I felt.  They disagree about most everything, and are back and forth with smarmy remarks, so it's hard to see that they are falling in love.  Otherwise, the stage business is very intriguing, and they back stories are very emotional and draw us in.  I'd give it 4.5 and say it is one of the better ones that you might want to check out, if you didn't see it yet.

"HOLIDAY ROAD"     Hallmark     2023      1 hour and 24 mins

Nine strangers, stranded at an airport during the holidays, unit for a Christmas road trip to Denver.  Misaadventures led to unexpected bonds and heartfelt conversations.

Director:  Martin Wood

Writers:  Gina Matthews, Grant Scherbo

Actors:  Sara Canning, Warren Christie, Princess Davis

Movie #3160 ........................."Christmas in Notting Hill" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3160 "Christmas in Notting Hill" (Hallmark)  I liked the two lovebirds in this one --- esp. the girl, because she was a main character in a t.v. show I admired greatly "Parenthood" -- it just took soooo long for the characters to show  growing interest in each other --- very cold for most of the film.  I did like seeing the British customs, though --- and what an athlete goes through (the guy) when he gets hurt, and he's a huge icon in the country, and esp. in his neighborhood.  I'd give it a 4.

"CHRISTMAS IN NOTTING HILL"      HALLMARK     2023      1 hour and 24 mins

Football star, Graham Savoy, has always been too busy for love, but when he comes home to Notting Hill for Christmas, he changes his mind after meeting the one person who has no idea who he is.

Director:  Ali Liebert

Writer:  Alex Yonks

Actors:  Sarah Ramos, WilliamMoseley, Joelle Rae

Movie #3159 ........................."A Not So Royal Christmas" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3159 "A Not So Royal Christmas" (Hallmark)  This is a movie where the two people from the start lie to each other --- she says she's a journalist of a reputable magazine (it's really a gossip rag), and he pretends to be the prince she wants to interview  (he actually takes care of the lawn/garden).  They had to change quite a bit to end up in love --- the last 15 minutes they recited a bunch of themes.  The best part of the movie was the closing kiss.  I'd give it a 3.

"A NOT SO ROYAL CHRISTMAS"    Hallmark     2023     1 hour and 24 mins.

Tabloid journalist Charlotte attempts to land an interview with a reclusive Count.  In response, the royal family has a groundskeeper pose as the Count since the real one fled years ago.

Director:  Jonathan Wright

Writer:  Anna White

Actors:  Brooke D'Orsay, Will Kemp, Taylor Love

movie #3158 ........................"My .Norwegian Holiday" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3158 "Norwegian Holiday" (Hallmark)  I really enjoyed this one --- a trip to Norway (Bergen) to find out why this girl's grandmother has a gnome( little statue) in her possession when she didn't think her grandmother was ever there.  After meeting up with the artist in a coffee shop and leaving with coffee all over this teacher's papers, she has  several discussions why she should take off for Norway with the guy in the coffee shop who happens to be Norwegian, and cute, but  he's hiding something.   Let's just say, it takes a good 20 minutes to get her on that plane to Norway.  Once there, she can fall in love, get a new family, and learn a heck of a lot about weather in Norway, etc. -- which will help her with her dissertation back in the U.S.  I like this one a lot -- it had hEArT and two capable actors.  

" MY NORWEGIAN HOLIDAY"       2023

J.J. grieving the loss of her grandmother and seeking inspiration, stumbles upon an unexpected holiday destiny.  Meeting Henrik, a Norwegian from Bergen, their connection deepens when he discovers she has a troll figurine from his hometown.

Director:  Davide Mackay

Writer:  Betsy Morris

Actors:  Rhiannon Fish, David Elsendoorn, Peter Vollebregt

Movie #3157 .........................'Our Christmas Mural" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3156 "Holiday Hotline" (Hallmark)  This one is adorable.  I enjoyed the direction in this one since most of the conversations between the two leads is done on a phone --- the way it is staged was fun to watch, to me.  The backdrop was Chicago also, and the lead guy is showing the lead British girl around the city, so that was fun, too.  The plot is pretty close to what happens in movies like "Pillow Talk" where there is mistaken identity.  Nice ending.  I would give this one a 5 out of 5.  One of the better ones.

"HOLIDAY OTLINE"       Hallmark      2023   

After leaving London, Abby connects with an anonymous caller while working at a cooking hotline.   The caller is single dad 'john" who Abby unknowingly has become smitten with in real life (her not on the phone life).  

Director:  Mark Jean

Writers:  Julie Sherman Wolfe, Duane Poole

Actors:  Emily Tennant, Niall Matter, Myla Volk

Movie #3156 .........................""Holiday Hotline" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3156 "Holiday Hotline" (Hallmark)  This one is adorable.  I enjoyed the direction in this one since most of the conversations between the two leads is done on a phone --- the way it is staged was fun to watch, to me.  The backdrop was Chicago also, and the lead guy is showing the lead British girl around the city, so that was fun, too.  The plot is pretty close to what happens in movies like "Pillow Talk" where there is mistaken identity.  Nice ending.  I would give this one a 5 out of 5.  One of the better ones.

"HOLIDAY OTLINE"       Hallmark      2023   

After leaving London, Abby connects with an anonymous caller while working at a cooking hotline.   The caller is single dad 'john" who Abby unknowingly has become smitten with in real life (her not on the phone life).  

Director:  Mark Jean

Writers:  Julie Sherman Wolfe, Duane Poole

Actors:  Emily Tennant, Niall Matter, Myla Volk

Movie #3155 ........................."Catch Me If You Claus" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3155 "Catch Me If You Claus (Hallmark)  Well, this was just too silly for me --- mostly because I dislike the santa movies and this would be one of them.  So this is Santa's son sent out to deliver the gifts, and he mistakenly delivers the wrong one to the journalist who thinks he is the robber the rest of the city is looking for.  See how long it took to tell what the story was about ?-- it really is a tough one to like from the get-go.   When I finally got pulled in,  they both hid out in a community theatre company preparing for their show.  That whole section was really funny and quite enjoyable.  But the rest of the film?  Pretty silly, but if you like silly, you may like this one --- it has Luke MacFarlane in it.  And he's likable.  3 out of 5.

"CATCH ME IF YOU CLAUS"  HALLMARK     2023        1 hour and 24 mins

On the verge of her big break, aspiring news anchor Avery Quinn  catches a home intruder wearing a red suit claiming to be Santa's son, Chris.

Director:  Bradley Walsh

Writer:  Nina Weinman

Actors:  Italia Ricci, Luke Macfarlane, Katerina Maria

Movie #3154 ........................."A Biltmore Christmas" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3154 "A Biltmore Christmas" (Hallmark)  This is the one I was looking forward to from the previews --- looked to be historic, and it was.  The story deals with time traveling and magic, so it might not be to everyone's liking, but just the whole idea of filming on the estate is enough to get me watching.  What a beautiful place, and costumes, and it had two of my favorite actors in it -- the story is a bit scattered but I liked the idea of tweaking the ending to make it  less a feel good ending and more romantic  showing a sacrifice on one lover's part for another -- like in 'Casablanca."  Well, that puts emphasis on the ending, and it did come to an ending, but it seemed really way out there --- i.e., it ended but I'm not sure it was as successful as I wanted it to be.  At least she ended up in the right time period.  Was it believable?  Well, I wanted it to be.  I'd give this 4 out of 5 and recommend it.

"THE BILTMORE CHRISTMAS'     Hallmark     2023

it follows lucy as she's hired to write the script for a remake of a holiday movie.  She joins a tour of the grounds and when she knocks an hourglass over, she finds herself transported back in time to 1946 and meet up with the actor, John Huston.

Director:  John Putch

Writer:  Marcy Holland

Actors:  Bethany Joy Lenz, Kristoffer Polaha, Robert Picardo

Movie #3153 ........................."A Season for Family" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3153 "A Season for Family" (Hallmark)  This Hallmark movie tangles with the subject of adoption, and when and how a parent tells the child he/she is adopted.  The subject, though a very good one and one that should be tackled with, just does a surface focus on it --- and as a result, the film seemed to drag on --- it seemed to be too easily solved.....just talk to the kid and tell him.  So it puts the guy in a weird situation, and although the woman and both kids really did well, it still left him with all the angst, pretty much.  The film on this subject, and the way it was handled, could have been shorter.  I'd give it a 3 out of 5.

"SEASON FOR FAMILY"    2023     1 hour and 30 mins

Maddy's adopted son Wesley has just one Christmas wish -- to meet his brother Cody, who was adopted into a different family.  Cody's father Paul is a widower who is not ready to have this conversation with his son.  

Director:  Kevin Fair

Writer:  Steven Sessions

Actors:  Brendan Penny Stacey Farber, Benjamin Jacobson

Movie#3152 ........................."A Merry Scottish Christmas" (Hallmark)

 Movie #152 "A Merry Scottish Christmas" (Hallmark)  Look who gets to film in Scotland for this Christmas movie?  None other than Lacey Chabert, and a resurgence of her relationship with her brother, played by Scott Wolf.  All for naught, in my opinion, because this was not that good of a film to me.  I loved the scenery, and I loved getting to know some of the Scottish traditions, etc.  but the story was boring.   It never drew me in emotionally.  The film  shows a growth in a relationship between brother and sister, and mother and kids, and mother and her brother, and Lacey and the guy who helps run the place.  You'd think with all that going on it would be more entertaining, but it really wasn't.  The only part I liked is when the boyfriend of Lacey introduces his brother, who happens to be an actor who has played in several movies with Lacey already.  And there's an insider joke when she asks," Haven't I met you before?"  and he says no, but the actor has played in her boyfriend in the Bruges film, and the one she learns to ballroom dance in.  Anyway, the ending just came up all of a sudden and it seemed stuck on.  So I wouldn't recommend this film, unless you want to see Scotland beautifully presented.  I'd give it a 3 out of 5.

" A MERRY SCOTTISH CHRISTMAS"    2023    2 HOURS

Follows estranged siblings Lindsay and Brad as they travel to Scotland at Christmas to reunite with their mother Jo, who announces she's the owner of an estate there.

Director;  Dustin Rikert

Writers:  Andrew Shulman, Andrea Canning, Dustin Rikert

Actors;  Lacey Chabert, Scott Wolf, James Robinson

Movie #3151 ........................."A World Record Christmas" (Hallmark)

Movie #3151 "A World Record Christmas" (Hallmark)  This one is a bit sappy but well done.  Stage business involved building jenga blocks for a world record mixed in with lots of other stuff dealing with an autistic kid's first love, and his  mom and stepdad, who are trying to support his dream while trying to  have  another child.  Mix in the real dad always letting the autistic kid down and you have some good believable conflict in the film.  I applaud the work done here to get across the challenges an autistic kid and his folks have to deal with on a daily basis.  I'd give it 4.5, one of the best this xmas season.

"A WORLD RECORD CHRISTMAS"      2023    1 hour and 24 mins

An autistic boy attempts to break a world record on Christmas Eve, uniting his family and community in the process.  Inspired by real events.

Director:  Jason Bourque

Writers:  Mark Hefti, Antonio Cupo

Actors:  Nikki Deloach, Lucas Bryant, Aias Dalman 

Movie #3150 ........................."A Heidelberg Holiday" (Hallmark)

Movie #3150 "A Heidelberg Holiday" (Hallmark)  The couple in love are cute in here; they are both authentic actors..... But the rest of the characters were just meh.  We DO get introduced to some German Traditions, and that's good, but it got boring after a while.  3.5 out of 5

"A HEIDELBERG HOLIDAY"       Hallmark       2023     1 hour and 28 mins

Heidi heads to the Heidelberg Christmas market to sell her hand-painted ornaments.  While there, she falls for a local artisan who helps her reconnect with her lost heritage.

Director;  Maclain Nelson

Writers:  Maclain Nelson

Actors:  Ginna Claire Mason, Frederic Brossier, Nick Wilder

 

movie #3149 ........................."Christmas Island" (Hallmark)

Movie #3149 "Christmas Island" (Hallmark) In this one I got tired of the female lead --- her looks and reaction to Andrew Walker (one of my faovorite Hallmark guys) were always quick snotty remark or roll of the eyes.  Walker is more playful than usual; I think helping her out in a role she was finding difficult.  Stage Business was seeing Christmas Island, and that was okay, but it didn't make one want to go there necessarily.  I'd give this one a 3.5 out of 5.

"CHRISTMAS ISLAND"     Hallmark      2023      1 hour and 24 mins

When a snowstorm diverts Kate's first private flight en route to Switzerland to Christmas Island, she must team up with an air traffic controller to secure her dream job as the family's pilot.

Director:  David Weaver

Writer:  Samantha Herman

Actors:  Andrew W. Walker, Rachel Skarsten, Kate Drummond    

Movie #3148 ........................."Take Me Back for Christmas" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3148 "Take Me Back for Christmas"  (Hallmark) This idea of wishing something comes true and going back in time has been done a lot in Hallmark Genre, but this has a twist.  It also has two leads that have a lot of chemistry together, and the stage business seems real and furthers the plot -- she is trying o live in a new world while trying to get her husband back.  The ending is worth the wait -- nice and emotional.  And the director is starring in it, so it was easier to believe the magic was real.

"TAKE ME BACK FOR CHRISTMAS"  (Hallmark)  2023     1 hour and 24 mins

After a particularly disheartening work day at her local gift shop, Renee makes a Christmas wish for a different life.

Director:  Corey Sevier

Writer:   Kate Pragnell

Actors:  Vanessa Lengies, Corey Sevier

Movie #3147 ........................."Everything Christmas" (Hallmark)

Movie #3147 "Everything Christmas" (Hallmark) This one was cute and different.  Different in that once in a while you just need to accept that things that are occurring are magical --- that's what this film is all about --- you have to suspend belief and go along for the ride.  The film seems scattered at first, but then gets clearer and clearer and by the end you are cheering the lovebirds on.  The two leads are congenial and cute, and the secondary people are strong, as well.  I'd give this one a 4.5; see it, if you are willing to just "go along" with the major premise!

"EVERYTHING CHRISTMAS"    Hallmark      2023     1 hour, 25 mins

Christmas enthusiast, Lori-Jo embarks on an epic 3 day road trip with her workaholic best friend, Victoria to the town where it's Christmas all year round.  They run into handsome, like-minded Zach and Jason.  And Chris who could be Santa Claus?

Director:  Marni Banack

Writer:  T. Booker James

Actors:  Cindy Busby, Katherine Barrett, Corey Servier 

Movie #3146 .........................".Moonlight in Vermont" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3146 "Moonlight in Vermont"  (Hallmark)  I normally like Lacey Chabert films, but tis one was not very good.  The two leads argued way too much in the opening for us to believe they were soulmates by the end -- they are way too different.  And the making jealous part of the film was just ridiculous and very immature on her part.  The stage business was once again, just making food, and i was hard to believe that the food was being made so quickly by this wonder chef she eventually falls in love with.  The second half was better than the first --- basically because the arguing just wasn't funny or endearing.  I'd give this one a 3 and say "skip it."

"MOONLIGHT IN VERMONT"    Hallmark  

After Fiona gets dumped, she escapes to her family's Vermont Inn for a few days to evaluate her life.  When her ex Nate shows up with a new girlfriend, Fiona devises a plan to win him back:  pretend head chef Derek is her new boyfriend.

Director:  Mel Damski

Writers:  Michael Nourse, Brian Sawyer, Gregg Rossen

Actors:  Lacey Chabert, Carlo Marks, Jesse Moss

Movie #3145 ........................."Suits" (Netflix)Seasons 1 and 2

 Movie #3145 "Suits" (Netflix)  Seasons 1 and 2

We have now watched two seasons of this gem of a show and are continuing to enjoy it.  We find the stories intriguing and very involved.  There's so much to learn about how lawyers wheel and deal in the courts and out --- mostly out, in this show (which is different from other shows that are usually more in the courts)  These people are highly intelligent, mostly Harvard graduates, which sounds like a pro - ad for the distinguished school, but then one of the smartest in this group of characters is the one who is faking his Harvard degree, so there's that to say.  I must say after watching two seasons, the love story with the esteemed Meghan Markle is at a stalemate and there are 5 more seasons to go.  So that and the constant focus on Louis (our least liked character) and also the concentration needed to watch each show might deter us from continuing to watch.  Those of you who made it through 8 seasons, please let us know if we should continue and there's a big payoff at the end.  Right now, I would give it a 4, and might not return to it right away.

"SUITS":       Netflix            Season 1 = 12 episodes, Season 1 = 16 episodes   2011-2019

On the run from a drug deal gone bad, brilliant college dropout Mike Ross finds himself working with Harvey Specter, one of New York City's best lawyers.

Creator:   Aaron Korsh

Actors:  Bargirl Macht, Patrick J. Adams, Meghan Markle.     

Movie #3143 ........................."Leo" (Netflix)

 Movie #3143 ........................."Leo" (Netflix)

Last night up at the lake a very proud room of ohs theatre alums stood up and applauded the one and only Tiffany Topol, whose name appeared SEVERAL times in the credits of the new Adam Sandler (on Netflix ( thanks ,carolyn Gardner, for correction) flick "Leo" !!!!! We loved all the music she did, and we highly recommend the film to one and all. What a fun movie about a classroom with a talking lizard. When the new mean substitute teacher takes over ,she forces kids to take care of Leo over the weekends, and much to her surprise, everyone benefits from that action, including herself! It is very very funny and very fast, so hold on to your hat when you watch this reptilian delight! And big congrats to Tiffany Topol for all the work she did to make the movie so entertaining! Looking forward to her next big venture! Here's proof of the credits....she's the selfie mom's voice and composer of many of the songs - If you didn't guess my score for this gem, I'd give it a 5 out of 5.

Movie #3144 ........................."The Holdovers"(movie theatre)

 Movie #3144 "Holdovers" - this is very different for the "christmas movie genre" --- 1) it isn't happy, peppy and up"  and  2)  it doesn't have a lot of action --- depends on layered characters, 3) there isn't one snowball fight in it!  What does it have?  I really good indie-feeling film.  The last movie Giamatti and this director worked together was on "Sideways" (the movie that introduced merlot to the world).  And this is another great collaboration.  It does deal with the holidays........the holdovers refer to boys in a private school who are left at the school for various reasons, and the teacher who is assigned to watch over them.  So right off the bat, you know this isn't gonna be chockfull of laughs, but there is a good sense of humor here as the boys try to get along with this curmudgeon of a teacher left behind.  It ends up to be one student, who  happens to be very bright, one terribly bright teacher, who happens to be didactic and stubborn, and one female cook, very congenial, caring and pragmatic, all with a bunch of baggage to work out throughout the film.  The story is really good, the photography is beautiful at times, esp. with the various locations in Boston that are filmed.  I highly recommend it at 4.5 out of 5.  Hopefully, after it has made its rounds in the theaters , it will also be available to be streamed, because it is worth the time to seek it out.

"THE HOLDOVERS"2023       R     2 hours, 13 mins

A cranky history teacher at a remote prep school is forced to remain on campus over the holidays with a troubled student who has no place to go.

Director:  Alexander Payne

Writer:  David Hemingson

Actors:  Paul Giamatti, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Dominic Sessa

Movie #3142 ........................."Where Are You, Christmas?" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3142 "Where Are You, Christmas?" (Hallmark) - fun idea for this one that makes it stand out --- a woman whose job is to market Christmas all yea, grows tired of it and makes a wish that it doesn't exist!  By that wish, all the decorations in her small home town (in which she is visiting) go away, alll the Christmas food her mom has been preparing goes away, and even color goes away --- the film for a time period is all in black and white.  She is in a car accident and so for a long time everyone thinks she talks about Christmas, and it's just babble.  Then, they discover, one by one, that if they are passionate about a Christmas memory, their color will come back.  And, of course, she's the last that changes back and just in the nick of time on Christmas eve!  Whew!  The black and white idea reminded me of a great film entitled "Pleasantville" --- but that got black and white for a different reason.  It was kind of hoaky how the main woman has to get back by falling in love with the gas station owner --- really, while other people were having memories, so was she, so she should have turned earlier, but it's a movie, and it has a story to tell, and this one did a good job!  and the actors were genuine!  I'd give ir 4.5 --- one or the better ones so far this season for Hallmark.

"WHERE ARE YOU CHRISTMAS?"  Hallmark   2023     1 hour and 24 mins

Addy wishes for a year without Christmas and she wakes up in a world of black and white.  She must work together with the town mechanic to restore Christmas.

Director:  Dustin Rikert

Writers:  Michael Reisz, Timothy Kuryak

Actors:  Lindsay Fonseca, Michael Rady, Julię Warner

Movie #3141 ........................."Never Been Chris'd" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3141 "Never Been Chris'd"  (Hallmark)  Two minutes into this one and I was ready to turn it off because the two "girls" seemed so shallow and immature, giggling, constantly looking at their phones and being really pretentious about everything.  But I soldiered on because I knew the "Chris" guy in the title was going to be Tyler Hynes, and he usually does good stuff.  Then, I kept watching because it seemed he was wooing both girls ----- at least they both liked him at first, and had crushes on him in high school, where he now teaches at.  And he seems to be really flirty with both of them.  I still just kept watching to see how this all turned out, and by the end, I really didn't have to.  Yes, there was more to the girls than at the beginning of the film, but the parents were so cartoon-like, and all the secondary people overused their arms and facials and were really pushing in this film to be likable and watchable --- too much here!  But the one line that really really bothered me was when Tyler Hynes (Chris) told one of the girls that he was disappointed in his life because he was "just an English teacher" --- not buying that one!  I'd give it  a 3 and not recommend it. It was all pretentious, for the most part, except for Tyler.  P.S.  This film is a little different from other Hallmark pictures, because like "Frozen" the relationship between the two women comes out even more important than the one between the guy and the girl. that pushed it from a 2.8 to a 3 for me.

"NEVER BEEN CHRIS'D"       Hallmark    2023

Best friends, Naomi and Liz, return home for the holidays and simultaneously enter a love triangle when they both reconnect with their high school crush, Chris Silver.

Director:  Jeff Beesley

Writer :  Joie Boykin

Actors:  Tyler Hynes, Pascal Lamothe-Kipnes,  Janel Parrish

Movie #3140 ........................."Joyeux Noel" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3140 "Joyeux Noel" (Hallmark)  There's a foreign language film with the same title is soooooooo sooo much better -- about a ceasefire in December 1914 (true story) , unofficial Christmas truce on the Western Front that allowed soldiers from opposing sides to gain insight into each other's way of life by celebrating the holiday.  Greta film!  This one?  not so great.  The story the two journalists in this film are looking for turns out to not go anywhere; so the film depends on these two very awkward, stoic, stick- like actors/people to fall in love in order for the magic of the xmas market to work --- the little french girl and the gnomes are the best part of the movie.  2.8.  

"JOYEUX NOEL"    HALLMARK  2023     1 hr and 24 mins

When a romantic painting of a Christmas market captures the imagination of copy editor Lea, she is sent to France with pragmatic reporter Mark to uncover the mystery behind the artist.

Director:  Jessica Harmon

Writers:  Brant Daugherty, Kimberly Daugherty

Actors:  Juicy Elliot, Brant Daugherty (hmmm, the guy in it wrote it --- he seemed so cold through the whole thing)

Movie #3139 ........................."It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3139 "It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas" (Hallmark)  This title does not fit the movie --- there isn't a cute tie-in or anything to it.  That being said, it concerns two rival parts of town - Eastside and Westside, and the mayors are old school chums and rivals themselves so they are set to win the town competition for the Christmas season, and hopefully get that factory they so need for more jobs, etc.  The contest falls apart when the two rivals start to fall in love and no longer want to compete -- but even though the contest start to fail, everyone seems to enjoy the holiday season even more by working together.  Everyone in our congress should watch this movie!  The theme is good, but the rest?  not so good.  I'd give it a 3 for trying to do something different here, but the stage business is boring.  

"IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS"     Hallmark  2019   1 hour and 23 mins

When a New England Christmas decorating competition searches for the town with the most Christmas spirit, the mayors of East and West Riverton go all out to get their towns to the top of the holiday heap.

Director:  David Weaver

Writer:  Rick Garman

Actors:  Eric Mabius, Tricia Helfer

Movie #3138 ........................."Matching Hearts" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3138 "Matching Hearts" (Hallmark)  this was not a xmas movie but a Valentine's Day one that they were showing on the Hallmark channel a few weeks ago and I caught it --- it was cute about a matchmaking service, where the lady matchmaker  discovers she's the best match for her tough client who isn't really sold on using the service --- he owns a dog service and the dogs were adorable.  They were a cute couple with very helpful secondary people with small jobs --- stage business was filling out info on the service and trying to match people and then going to the restaurants and checking out how they are doing -- it was okay, but I enjoyed the dog parts better.  There ended up to be a lot of time with just looking into each other's eyes in this one - 3.8 out of 5.

"MATCHING HEARTS"     Hallmark     2020    1 hour and 24 mins

As Valentine's Day nears a matchmaker is tasked by her mentor to find a match for an entrepreneur who believes staying single is the key to success.  

Director:  Siobhan Devine

Writers:  Zac Hug, Sarah Wise, Laurence Walsh

Actors:  Taylor Cole, Ryan Paevey

Movie #3137 ........................."Mystic Christmas" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3137 "Mystic Christmas" (Hallmark)  This one had an adorable couple, fast and funny dialogue -- the story was a little scattered but a good strong film overall.  There was a surprise at the end to the solution of the conflict the two leads had.  Very enjoyable and I highly recommend this one.  4.5 out of 5

"MYSTIC CHRISTMAS"       Hallmark    2023    1 hour and 24 mins

An animal expert answers a call for help from an old friend and that puts her in the path of an ex at Christmas.

Director:  Marlo Hunter

Writers:  Nicole Drespel, Christy O'Connor, Andrew Bernhard

Actors:  Jessy Schram, Chandler Massey, Patti Murin

Movie #3136 ........................."Ms Christmas Comes to Town" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3136 "Ms Christmas Comes to Town" (Hallmark)  There isn't a lot of action in this film --- an older, well respected woman has a repurtation for being Ms Christmas and runs a show about it, but now she is retiring, and as her last hurrah she decides to take it on the road to small towns --- give gifts, have auctions for charity, etc.  She takes a young girl with her whom she wants to take her place --- she also brings a male nurse --- and it's hallmark, so they are the two we are watching get together, trying to help this lady with her last hurrah.  Not much action in this one --- but it leaves you with a warm feeling about Christmas and what we are supposed to be getting out of the season.  The 2 leads never seemed to get past the stiff, awkward stage of saying their lines --- Barbara Niven (daughter in law of David Niven) held her own as the matriarch --- I'd give it a 3 out of 4.  

"MS. CHRISTMAS COMES TO TOWN"      Hallmark     2023

A shopping channel host known as Ms Christmas receives a terminal diagnosis, which inspires a multi-city excursion set to spread Christmas cheer before her farewell broadcast.

Director:  Jason Bourque

Writer:  Brook Durham

Actors:  Barbara Niven, Erica Durance, Brennan Elliott

Movie #3135 ........................."The Best of Youth Cinefest" (Chicago Film Fest)

Movie #3135 "The Best of youth Cinefest" (Chicago Film Fest)  I wish I would not have lost my notes on this shorts program because I can't recall the title of the only one that we liked --- it was the first one, and it was a powerful documentary of this husband and wife who work with foster kids --- they offer their own kind of foster program for kids in the neighborhoods, and it looked really well done.  A very heartwarming short --- the rest?  Not even worth writing about --- sorry to say.  This wasn't a good choice on my part of what to see.  And if this was the "best,"  the festival was in a bit of trouble here in this competition.  

 "THE BEST OF YOUT CINEFEST"      about 110 minutes of 5 shorts 

Movie #3134 ........................."A Happy Day" (Chicago Film Festival)

 Movie #3134 "A Happy Day" (Chicago Film Festival)  This is kind of a typical Chicago film festival foreign entry, where it is very indie in style, and one that we don't always understand completely what is going on because not enough is told to us --- a little blurb at the beginning might have helped to set the scene.  I picked it out because it was labelled a comedy, and right from the get-go you know that was an incorrect label -- there was a little bit dry humor, but not enough to label it a comedy in our eyes.  Actually, the subject matter is far from it.  These 20 year old did something wrong and they are now being sent to some remote place to wait to be thrown out of the country --  they might be refugees, though that word was never mentioned -- but they are in a prison like existence and it shows their daily activities, and they wait until it's their time to go --- but we get the impression once they are let go, it will eventually result in an afterlife because they are sent in the snow  with very little on and very few rations.... There were very few highs and lows in the film, a lot of stoic actors, and less dialogue than we would have wanted.  But the photography was really good.  We would give this a 3 out of 5.  Don't bother looking for it.

"A HAPPY DAY"     Chicago Film Festival   2023    1 hr and 53 mins     (Norway)

Three teenage friends stuck in a frozen, hopeless place come up with a plan to escape over the mountain to a world where their dreams can be fulfilled.  But when one of them falls in love, their plan begins to unravel.

Director:  Hisham Zaman

Writer:  Hisham Zaman

Actors:  Salah Qadi, Ravand ali Taha, Mohamed Salah

Movie #3133 ........................."ToTem" (Chicago Film Festival)

 Movie #3133 "Totem"  As usual, we went to the Chicago Film Festival this year a few weeks ago, and instead of seeing our usual 10 shows in one day between the two of us, we ended up seeing only 6 -- (3 each and they matched --- they usually don't).  The Festival was a big disappointment -- they had to move it because the AMC by Navy Pier is being remodeled so the festival had to find another venue for this year --- I hope they move it bak because this was too crowded, too small with only one bathroom.  They also had trouble sticking to their schedule so we were running from one film to the other, which we shouldn't have had to do --- and if we wanted to do Rush tickets, we had to stand in line on a different floor than where the film was --- strange.  And because of all the rushing, and less to choose from, we never got to hear a director speak on his/her own film, which is part of the reason for festivals!  Anyway, I chose this one to see because it is the Mexican offering for Oscar competition --- not sure it will make it, but it was interesting to watch.  It's a pretty simple story told through the eyes of a little girl who is watching her dad being taken away from her due to his illness.  And the event is his birthday, but you get the impression it is kind of a goodbye party with all of his friends and family.  There's lots of emotion shown in between the hustle and bustle of putting on a party, and the little girl many times has to fend for herself, trying to find things to occupy her attention while the adults are too busy "adulting" --- Like I said, it kept my interest, but it didn't wow me like some film I have ween at this festival before.  I'd give it a 4 out of 5 and hope it does get the attention it deserves.  

"TOTEM"       2023     1 hour and 35 mins

Sever-year-old Sol is spending the day at her grandfather's home, for a surprise party for Sol's father, Tonatiuh.  As daylight fades, Sol comes to understand that her world is about to change dramatically.

Director:  Lila Aviles

Writer:  Lila Aviles

Actors:  Naima Senties, Montserrat Maranon, Marisol Gase

Movie #3132 ........................."Sex Education" Season 4, Finale (Netflix)

 Movie #3132 "Sex Education" Season 4, finale (netflix)  We have enjoyed this show throughout the 4 seasons, and we were sorry to see this one end, but we also realize that the show was full of young , talented and vibrant young actors who have many more things to do and say with their work.  What a diverse cast --- one we weren't used to seeing when it first started.  It took place in a high school the first 2 seasons, and then to college for the last two.  The cast changed just a little from one year to the next, so there was a staple of young actors that really ran the show, except for one very strong adult actor, Otis's mom, played by the always competent Gillian Anderson (from X-files and the Crown).  This was a British show with bawdy and sometimes silly comedy, that was never afraid to tackle intimate sex that was running rampant in the kids' teen and  college ages.  So this show was not for everyone --- and the 4th season has a death the kids were dealing with, that made the show a tad darker than it usually is, but what it most competently did is tackle the subjects that are oftentimes ignored between parents and their kids, or amongst their kids.....all the highs and lows of first falling in love, dealing with sexual problems as they come about, breakups and startups  in relationships, getting along with siblings, getting along with exes, dealing with bullying by parents and other teens..... all the mucky subjects that those teen years bring and the show  tackled them so well.  There's much written if you google their final show because they decided to handle the love story between Maeve and Otis contrary to what most people wanted --- but it is done  so very delicately and authentically that I found it quite acceptable.  A big thanks to the creators of this show, in its quality and courage to tackle all of these hard topics that teens go through, esp. on the subject of sex.  I would give this season 4.5 out of 5, and it ended up to be my second favorite, just behind the 1st season.

"SEX EDUATION"    season 4, the finale     netflix     2019-2023     45 min episodes    32 episodes

A teenage boy with a sex therapist mother teams up with a high school classmate to set up an underground sex therapy clinic at school.

Creator:  :  Laurie Nunn

Actors:  Asa Butterfield, Gillian Anderson, Ncuti Gatwa, Emma Mackey

Moview # 3131 ........................."Falling for You" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3131 "Falling for You" (Hallmark)  -- I liked the leads in this one, but the stage business was like so many other movies I have seen --- the only idea I liked that seemed new to me was the lantern activity.  The conflict is popular, too --- technology vs. small town life and the leads portray two people who are both married to their jobs -- "all work and no play"  so you watch until one or both show a sign that they are willing to change their priorities.   There was a decision made by the end of the film, but I wondered.....now what?  How will this go?  where will they live and work?   I'd give it a 3.5.  

"FALLING FOR YOU"       Hallmark    2018     1 hour and 24 mins

Radio host Lacey (Taylor Cole) is hosting a bachelor bake-off to raise money to save her radio station.  When her star bachelor backs out, she enlists Zac (Tyler Hynes) a visiting businessman to fill the spot.

Director:  Peter DeLuise

Writers:  Joie Botkin, Jessica Gilmore

Actors:  Taylor Cole, Tyler Hynes

Movie #3130 ........................."On the 12th Date of Christmas" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3130 "On the 12th Date  of Christmas" (Hallmark)  I had to watch this one because one of my favorite Hallmark actors was in it (Tyler Hynes) -- but I think I would have enjoyed it anyway because of two other things:  1)  it talks about Chicago because it was supposed to have been filmed there (only outdoor shots, I think, were from here, but, still...) 2) the stage business was in game form -- a scavenger hunt --- which sounds lame but it the job of the two leads was to be creative in tying in the 12 days of xmas to the neighborhoods in Chicago --- a good storyline, I thought.  And it was good --- not powerful, or emotional or any wow words, just "good."   The female lead was a bit stiff, but Mr. Hynes was able to soften her up to make her more believable.  Nice feminist sub theme, with the two leads vying for the same job, but the male saying she is the better of the two.   I'd give it a 3.5  out of 5 and moderately recommend it.

"ON THE 12 DATES OF CHRISTMAS"      Hallmark  2020     1 hour and 24 mins 

Two game creators, both vying for a promotion, must team up to create a Christmas scavenger hunt.

Director:  Gary Yates

Writers:  Christine Conrad, Jamie Pachino

Actors:  Mallory Jansen, Tyler Hynes

Movie #3129 ........................."A Very Venice Romance" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3129 "A Very Venice Romance" (Hallmark) I love Venice,  and I love seeing Venice on film so that's the one positive I came out with after watching this movie.  I could identify all the places, and memories came rushing back to me whenever the actors were shooting in a certain place.  However this story was kind of dull;  just a walk through Venice with two good-looking people isn't going to cut it for a 2 hour block of time to watch it (even if I was on the computer and checking mail through most of it).  You can see Rick Steves do that and get more info on the place, in my opinion.  The food was of great emphasis here since she comes all the way from the states to hire this Italian cook, who from the get go says he doesn't want to leave Venice --- who would, right?  The conflict played out just in the last couple of minutes, and through the whole film I feel the girl was very manipulative and I was rooting for him to tell her no by the end of the film!  The subtitle for this film should have been:  how many times can he say "not interested!"  I'd give it 3 out of 5 --- just photography of Venice and food held this one together!

"A VERY VENICE ROMANCE"      HALLMARK       2023    1 hour and 24 mins

Amy searches for a chef to help guide the venture she works for.  She tries to woo an Italian chef, but he turns her down, so she enrolls in his cooking school to try to persuade him.  (Note:  I thought manipulate was the more correct word to use here.)

Director:  Liz Farrer

Writers:  Joelle Sellner, Alex Wright

Actors:  Stephanie Leonidas, Raniero Monaco Di Lapio

Movie #3128 ........................."Notes on Autumn" (Hallmark)

 Movie "Notes on Autumn" (Hallmark)  Two stories are going on here, much like the popular xmas film "Holiday," where two women switch houses and each finds meaning and love in the new surroundings.  Voila!  Same idea here, except it is two best friends - one a woman, the other a man.  So we have not only a guy/girl relationship, but a guy/guy one, too.  This is an important change for Hallmark movies, and I welcome it.  (there are a few actors/actresses that don't welcome the changes being made so they have jumped ship so goodbye to them, and hello to freedom ---  freedom to write  even more romantic/comedies and inspirational films for the Hallmark channel that more people in this world can relate to.    This film used a split screen for that first kiss, obviously suggesting the similarities (equality)  we all have in that special moment in a relationship and lots of humor to move the stories along. The stage business deals with music and writer's block, both subjects interesting to me.    The conflicts are relatable and believable, and the ending was fine.  I'd give it a 4.5 and encourage you to watch this step into the future for Hallmark.  It has been long coming.

"NOTES ON AUTUMN"     Hallmark       2023        1 hour and 24 mins

Ellie, a pianist gave up her passion and works for a hotel.  Leo, a famous author with writer's block who can't finish his highly popular book series.  They both decide to swap places ending up with some big decisions to make.  

Director:  Troy Scott

Writer:  Rick Garman

Actors:  Ashley Williams, Luke Macfarlane, Marcus Rosner

Movie #3127 .........................""Three Bed, Two Bath, One Ghost" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3127 "Three Bed, Two Bath,  One Ghost" (Hallmark) This was one I was looking forward to because it seemed to be a more creative of an idea than some of the other Christmas fare being offered this season, but it really fell flat with me.  The ghost had more life than the leading couple who just quietly said their lines through the whole movie --- the final kiss was good, but the rest?  ugh!  It was a cute idea to show the importance of the house, but I never really felt that as I watched it --- I just felt what a loss with this young girl/ghost and how much life and energy she had that was snuffed out --- and I guess that is supposed to be part of the themes that the film was trying to present, but I just felt it was a waste of time to watch it.m  Stage business was boring (just refining the house?  and having confrontations with her father?  and the ghost's  conflict was somehow tied to the two modern lovers.    I'd give it 2.5 --- I'd like to see that young ghost in more Hallmark films --- she was really good!

"THREE BED, TWO BATH, ONE GHOST"    Hallmark    2023     1 hour and 24 mins 

The house that Anna, a new real estate agent, has listed has a spirit from the 1920s that won't go.  Even worse, the ghost is afraid she won't be able to "pass over" unless she reconciles Anna with her ex.

Director:  Kevin Fair

Writers:  Gregg Rossen, Brian Sawyer, Joie Botkin

Actors:  Julie Gonzalo, Chris McNally, Madeleine Arthur

Movie #3126 ........................"Wedding of a Lifetime" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3126 "Wedding of a Lifetime" (Hallmark)  This started out differently from all the others in that the two leads start out as a couple already, and get this......LIVING TOGETHER ALREADY, which seems to be a no-no in Halmarkian world.  So the conflict is shown in the first couple of minutes:  the excitement and togetherness feelings seem gone to both of them --- they go to family dinners together, friends doing a barbecue together, but really they each have activities and jobs they are doing individually and don't seem to make time to do the together things, just the two of them, anymore.  They share a house but not married.  And after the first couple of minutes, they decide to separate but not tell anyone.  Well, little do they know that their family and friends have signed them up for a Today-show like competition with the ending a big wedding on the tv show.  The stage business then includes competitive games between 4 couples and through those, changes ensue in relationships.  For the differences this movie provides for Hallmark, I applaud it --- and the two leads are very congenial, and this ending shows one of the best weddings played out in the Hallmark world.  I give it a 4 out of 5 and very much recommend it if you ever see it on the Hallmark calendar  again.

"WEDDING OF A LIFETIME"   2022     1 hour and 24 mins

A recently separated couple rekindles their romance when they are inadvertently entered into a nationally televised contest competing for an all-expenses-paid for wedding.

Director:  Anne Wheeler

Writer:  Greg Baldwin

Actors:  Jonathan Bennett, Brooke D'Orsay, Robyn Bradley

Movie #3125 ........................."My Christmas Guide" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3125 "My Christmas Guide" (Hallmark)  Once in a while a special film is shown on the Hallmark Channel that challenges us to think differently about life and love, and this one is one of them.  A blind professor is raising his daughter alone and navigating to and from work at his university through new construction and finds it so much a challenge that when his daughter convinces him he should use a guide dog, he takes the suggestion ---- he doesn't want to because he's worried about taking on still another member of the family to take care of , but the guide dog trainer convinces him that the dog will becomes a great friend and danger avoider for him.  You probably can guess the rest, since it's a Hallmark film.  But I feel I learned so much about what a guide dog does, how the dog is trained, and what someone goes through when blind and faces with all the obstacles that are thrown his way.  But after watching him a while, we, the audience, realize that he can navigate through it, and we can help by helping....in small ways, like verbalizing an answer instead of nodding.  But he really CAN DO pretty much everything, if given the chance.  Many people should see this film to get the messages here.  The only complaint I had is that the director used a picture of the house, the street or the school/university for EVERY transition (fade in/fade out).  It was kind of funny after a while.  I would give it a 4 out of 5 --- good message, information and emotions here!

"MY CHRISTMAS GUIDE"       Hallmark       2023       2 hours

A college professor connects with a guide dog trainer after losing his eyesight and adopting a seeing eye dog.

Director:  Max McGuire

Writer:  Keith Hemstreet

Actors:  Amber Marshall,   Ben Mehl,  Ava Weiss, Justin Nurse

  

Movie #3124 ........................."A Royal Winter" (Hallmark)

Movie #3124 "A Royal Winter" (Hallmark)  Well, there are so many "royal" Christmas movies that it is a genre in itself on the Hallmark channel, and many of them are lame and not good (I just turned one off right now called "Christmas Royal Crush" -- all it took was 15 minutes.  But this one, the girl seemed so sincere and the guy was so quirky that I thought I would enjoy it --- and I did.  The conflict was a bit different --- it usually is that the girl is too lowly to ever be good enough to marry into the royal family, but the conflict was more between mother and son --- he was hiding his true self and his quirkiness from her --- and that made the story more enjoyable to be --- this new girl brought out his real self -- and we all know that is a true definition of a soulmate.  I'd give this a 4 out of 5 and recommend it.  It is one of the good "royal" hallmark christmas films.

"A ROYAL WINTER"   2017       1 hour and 24 mins.

While on a last-minute European holiday, a young woman finds herself in the middle of a real-life fairy tale when a chance meeting with a handsome local leads to something more.

Director:  Ernie Barbarash

Writers:  Ernie Barbara's, Mark Amato

Actors:  Meerritt Patterson, Jack Donnelly, Samantha Bond

Movie #3123 ............................"Killers of the Flower Moon" (movie theater)

 MOVIE #3123 "Killers of the Flower Moon" (Movie Theater)  This is an important movie to see for a number of reasons.  It is a story that needs to be told and to everyone - it involves the serial killing of a number of Osage native Americans in the Osage county, mostly women.   Ironically, it occurred about the time the land these native Americans were on had several discoveries of oil,  and the land was all of a sudden rich with oil  (translation; more  money and worth.  You can tell Scorsese dotted all the i's and crossed all the t's for this one, not wanting to insult the people and their land, and it truly is a very well-made film.  It is based on David Gran's well written novel  of the same name.  I read the book, and even though it is non-fiction and not my favorite genre, I loved all the forensic research in it, the story line, and the birth of the FBI told in such detail.  Note that the focus is changed for the movie and much less on the FBI and more on the native american woman and her  husband, who  has a hand in her sisters' deaths, and possibly her poisoning.  Therefore, the FBI is in the background, and we see the murders set up, rather than the research the police have to sift through to see who did it.   But the themes are the same -- native americans are  considered animals and at the hands of white men.    Women are especially targets for the brutality.  Men in the county  are complicit with the evil doings.  Community members are bamboozled by a Trump- like leader who charms and manipulates  them on the outside, but is evil in his thoughts and actions.    Another reason you might want to see it is because it is sure to be lauded with   number of academy award nominations - the acting is superb, and the photography is so well done, that you can see how meticulously each shot is in the hands of this master director.  It really teaches us what the osage native culture is really like, and it does it with a diverse cast that shows us the customs, songs and dances in almost every frame.  It is a long film, like many of the other ones that have been good and oscar-worthy this year, but this one didn't seem slower because the story was really tight and always moving forward.  And the ending was superb --- but I don't want to say more about it in fear of saying too much --- don't want to spoil it for you.  But I strongly urge you to see this one --- it'll go down in movie history as one of the best ever done.  I give it 4.5 out of 5. 

"KILLER OF THE FLOWER MOON"   2023     R     3 hours 26 mins

When oil is discovered in 1920s Oklahoma under Osage Nation land, the Osage people are murdered one
-  until the FBI steps in to unravel the mystery.

Director:  Martin Scorsese

Writers:  Eric Roth, Martin Scorsese, David Grann

Actors:  leonardo Di Caprio, Robert De Niro, lily Gladstone

 

 

Movie #3122 ........................."Only Murders in the Building - Season 3 (Hulu)

 Movie #3122 "Only Murders in the Building - Season 3 (Hulu)  This will be forever referred to as "The one with Meryl Streep" --- because, of course, she is in most of the episodes, singing along with Paul Rudd and others.  Paul Rudd is the one murdered, but he still appears in much of the season.  There are the usual twists and turns, but I was surprised I didn't like this as well as the other two, esp. when theatre people and a show was at the center of the mystery.  Maybe too many suspects?  Maybe I thought the dialogue was not up to the quality of the other two?  May there was too much mugging from Short and Martin, and more of the show depended on Gomez, and not sure she can that with her deadpan delivery on most lines?  Maybe I expected more from Meryl Streep?  Although, she was here usual wonderful self in most of her scenes --- put the believability back into the show every time it got to her.  Anyway, it just wasn't that good this season.  But not enough mystery, and too much mugging.  The songs were witty, though!  I'd give it a 3 out of 5 and still recommend it for Meryl Streep and Paul Rudd.

"ONLY MURDERS IN THE BUJILDING - SEASON 3     hulu    30 min episodes, 10 episodes

opening night, the lead gets killed, and everyone in the show and running it are possible murderers.

Creators:  John Hoffman, Steve Martin

Directors:  Jamie Babbit, Cherien Dabis, and..

Writers:  John Hoffman, Steve Martin, Ben Philippe and others

Movie #3121 ........................."Mum" (tv series - Seasons 1-3 on Brit Box)

 Movie #3121 "Mum" (t.v. series Seasons 1-3 on Brit Box)  I'm not sure who would like this show --- we did, but it took a while for us to catch on to the type of humor it uses...  It is a very different show.  It's about grief, and the  people who have lost a friend, father, husband, future father-in-law, going through daily tasks as they get together for various activities that are now without.....him.  The main character is played by Leslie Manville (the wonderful Mrs. Harris -- if you didn't get to see "Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris" last year, do yourself a favor and see it --- it's better than any of the stuff I have blogged on possibly all this year --- it's that good!)  Anyway, she is a wonderful character -- in fact, the two main leads (he is her dead husband's best-friend, a very quiet man but very much a thinker and doer) don't say a lot in the show --- everyone else non- stop talks to get through the days and not mention the elephant in the room (the dead husband).  But what makes this different is how they seemingly say inappropriate things all the time --- or they tear each other down in one fell swoop -- one comment that ordinarily would knock a person down --- and it continually goes on like that through the 2 seasons.  And then the third season puts them all in the same villa, that one of them has rented -- and their relationships are really put to the test because now they are living with each other for a week --- that's the pay off to this show --- you have to get to that third season, and then things fall into place.  At least that's what we thought.  It's awkward with a capital A, slow, with a capital S, but very insightful, intriguing, and very different, with a capital D.  I'd give it 4.5 out of 5.

"MUM"       TV SERIES 2016-2019      30 MINUTES,     18 EPISODES

After the death of her husband, a woman attempts to rebuild her life while surrounded by her sometimes problematic family and friends.  (sometimes?)

Directors:  Stefan Golaszewski, Richard Paxton

Writer:  Stefan Golaszewski

Actors:  Lesley Manville, Peter Mullan, Lisa McGrillis

Movie #3120 ........................."Shotgun Wedding" (Amazon Prime)

Movie #3120 "Shotgun Wedding"  (Amazon Prime)  Remember the movie last year (or was it the year before) with Sandra Bullock and ChannignTatum?  Well, here it is again....well kind of.  With less talent.  I have never ever been a fan of Josh Duhamel, and yet this was a little better than I expected from him.  But I have always been a fan of Jennifer Lopez's acting (Angel Eyes, Maid in Manhattan, etc.) but I expected more from her here.  It's the script.  Up and down , up and down.  There are a couple of cute scenes, but on the whole, just a lot of running around in silly situations (that no one would ever believe) with no care for real relationships.  But that wouldn't be bad if it was a funny film, which I didn't think it was.  I'd give it a 3 - Do I recommend it?  Ugh!

"SHOTGUN WEDDING"        2022     R     1 hour and 41 mins

Darcy and Tom gather their families for the ultimate destination wedding but when the entire wedding party is taken hostage the bride and groom must save their loved ones --- if they don't ki8ll each other first.

Director:  Jason Moore

Writer:  Mark Hammer

Actors:  Jennifer Lopez, Josh Duhamel, Lenny Kravitz 

Movie #3119 ........................."School of Life" (Hulu, Freevee)

 Movie #3119 "School of Life" (Hulu, Freevee)  A Ryan Reynolds' movie I have never heard of or seen before?  I'm there!  But it was just okay.  That's because the main character played by David Paymer is dull --- that's the whole idea of the film.  He is a boring teacher in comparison to the new teacher, Ryan Reynolds!  Boy, that's a surprise, isn't it?  The story is kind of silly, too, and the dialogue, well, most of it, is lame.  Just Ryan Reynolds, the theme, and one kid is interesting.  I'd give it a 3.  You don't need to see it, really.

"SCHOOL OF LIFE"       2005     PG      1 HOUR AND 51 MINS

A new H,S. teacher squares off against his crusty competitor for a teacher of the year award.  

Director:  William Dear

Writer:  Jonathan Kahn

Actors:  David Paymer, Ryan Reynolds, John Astin 

Movie #3118 ........................." A Haunting in Venice" (movie theater)

Movie #3118 " A Haunting in Venice" (movie theater)   --- Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot murder mystery that is extremely talkie --- and the only person who talked without sounding scripted was Tina Fey.  The best thing about the film is the location and the atmosphere of the piece.  I'd give it a 3.  I wouldn't recommend it unless you want to see Venice and just an okay mystery.

" A HAUNTING IN VENICE"        2023    PG-13     1 hour and 43 min.  

In post-World War II Venice, Poirot, now retired and living in his own exile, reluctantly attends a seance.  But when one of the guests is murdered, it is up to the former detective to once again uncover the killer.

Director Kenneth Branagh

Writers:  Michael Green, Agatha Christie

Actors:  Kenneth Branagh, Michelle Yeoh, Jamie Dornan   

Movie #3117 ........................."Theater Camp" (Hulu)

 Movie #3117 "Theater Camp" (Hulu)  Realizing we are the demographic group who might like this film, along with the many theatre lovers around the world, we had to check this one out --- it starts with real footage of Ben Platt ("Dear Evan Hanson") at a theatre camp like this one portrayed in the film when he was about the age of the kids we are about to see --- that works to draw us in because we KNOW these kids.....  the ones that live and breathe musical theater show tunes !  That practice tap steps when just standing around --- that take on auditions like olympic competitions.  And We love these kids.  But when they are shown in a Mocumentary like this, where everything is exaggerated to the nth degree , they come across as annoying, crazy and just plain weird.  So I wouldn't recommend this movie to non- theatre kids because this film  would never GET them to try theatre out, nor GET them to befriend a theatre kid.  That being said, this blog is designed for all the theatre lovers like us.  And we must say, the film  is brilliant and funny in parts, but just too silly in others --- here, a little should have gone a long way, but no..... this is every aspect played to the hilt --- egs.   elementary school kids doing scenes from "Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf"? and the kids doing a brand new play written by their coach (Ben Platt) in tribute of their overall head founder who is in a coma , entitled "Still, whatever her name is (making fun of "Still Alice," a reference theatre people would understand and possibly think  a tad  inappropriate?) , the agony and the ecstasy of auditions, announcement of casts, rehearsals, learning lighting cues (there's a funny bit with the lighting guy showing a kid how to run a spotlight)...... We did weather it all the way through, sometimes laughing, many times  not .... but the ending was nice and I thought the best part --- I think they were trying to get to the passion and love we all have for theatre, but throwing the respect for it by the wayside replacing that with laughs --I'd give it a 3.5 --- maybe theatre lovers will like it?  just maybe.

"THEATER CAMP"       Hulu    PG-13     1 hour and 32 mins   2023

The eccentric staff of a rundown theater camp in upstate New York must band together with the beloved founder's bro-y son to keep the camp afloat.

Directors:  Molly Gordon, Nick Lieberman

Writers:  Noah Galvin, Molly Gordon, Nick Lieberman

Actors:  Ben Platt, Molly Gordon, Amy Sedaris

Movie #3116 ........................."How to Fall in Love" (Hallmark)

Movie #3116 "How to Fall in Love"  (Hallmark)  Clunky in the beginning but got much better by the end.  Awkward guy (this actor plays that well, but stiff) and she's bubbly and way out of his league --- so if you can believe that he has a lot more to offer to her, don't even bother with this one --- I kept up hope and liked him by the end and found him a suitable match --- love is tough to explain sometimes.  4 out of 5.

 "HOW TO FALL IN LOVE"    HALLMARK   2012   1 hour and 24 mins

An accountant, who never quite grew out of his awkward teenage years, finds himself with a dating coach who  happens to be his high school crush as well.  Thanks to his coach, he gets a woman he has his sights on for some time, but very soon he  realizes they are incompatible.  Meanwhile, his dating lessons with his teenage crush reawaken old feelings.  Not realizing the feelings are mutual, he finds himself unable to act on them due to his fear of being rejected by the one he truly loves ----- again. And how can the dating coach fix that?

Director:  Mark Griffiths

Writer:  Bart Fisher

Actors:  Eric Mabius, Brooke D'Orsay

Movie #3115 ........................"A Safari Romance" (Hallmark)

Movie #3115 " A Safari Romance" (Hallmark)  There's a lot to like in this one --- two engaging people, drop dead gorgeous scenery -- I learned about the white tiger.... we, as viewers, were taken on great short safari trips, and I loved every minute of it.  But that was it --- conflict a bit limp, but I DID like the ending --- nice figuring out how to meld the two lives together!  I'd give this a 4 out of 5 and recommend it!

" A SAFARI ROMANCE"      Hallmark      2023     1 hour and 24 mins

Megan Henry, a down-to-earth wildlife biologist, working on a project that will foster protection of wildlife in Africa, is forced to team up with a theme park designer, Tim Ericson, who wants to create an over-the-top safari attraction.  (or a fake one!)  

Director:  Leif Bristow

Writer:  Agnes Bristow

Actors:  Andrew W. Walker, Brittany Bristow

P.S.  this looks to be a labor of love --- the parents of the actress is this seem to be the director and writer of the show -- cool!

Movie #3114 ........................."Unleashing Mr. Darcy" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3114 "Unleashing Mr., Darcy" (Hallmark)  What is the fascination with Jane Austen characters?  I know I love them --- the pride, the prejudice, the smart banter back and forth, the entanglements in the love relationships.  Anyway, I saw the Mr. Darcy reference in this title, so I decided to watch it.  Sorry I did.  Two sticks for actors.  A story that relied on just rumors and overhearing stuff --- irksome.  And it relied on the premise that hate is really love --- hmmm.  And it didn't work here.  They just say nasty things to each other, and then apologize and then say nasty things to each other again.... 2.8 out of 5.

"UNLEASHING MR. DARCY"     Hallmark  2016        1 hour and 24 mins

In this modern day spin on "Pride and Prejudice," Elizabeth Scott is fishing for direction in her life and gets the opportunity to professionally show her Cavalier King Charles spaniel in a fancy New York Dog show.  Guess who the judge is?  and guess why he keeps picking her as the winner?  duh!

Director:  David Winning

Writers:  Teena Booth, Teri Wilson

Actors:  Cindy Busby, Ryan Paevey

Movie #3113 ........................"A Taste of Summer" (Hallmark)

 Movie #3113 "A Taste of Summer' (Hallmark) I wasn't going to watch this but noticed that I knew and liked the two leads from other shows --- He is in" Rookie,"  and she was in "Without a Trace." I had a hard time liking her, and the film gave him little to do --- he just smiled a lot because she seemed soooo mean!  The script forced her to be so uppity and smart aleck in this film for what I thought was too long a length of time, so when she revealed what was underneath, there wasn't much there.  Same for him.  Competition got in the way this time.  Tough conflict, I guess, in the food world.  3.5 out of 5.

"A TASTE OF SUMMER"     Hallmark     2019      1 hour and 22 mins

A woman moves to Bright Shore, where she opens a restaurant and rediscovers her passion.  Upon arrival, she encounters a former baseball player who has a competitive streak and owns his own restaurant .

Director:  Peter Deluise

Writer:  Laura Brienza

Actors:  Roselyn Sanchez,  Eric Winter

Movie #3112 ......................."Come Fly With Me" (Hallmark)

Movie #3112 "Come Fly With Me" (Hallmark)  I like this one because it gave me some info on what goes into being a female flyer for the Thunderbirds.  Cool!  And the two leads were fun to watch, with their two kids trying to put them together.  A very exciting High Point, I might add.  I'd give it 4 out of 5.

"COME FLY WITH ME"     Hallmark    2023

After Landing a spot on the Thunderbirds team, an Air Force pilot must find a way to balance flying, family, and her budding romance with a widowed father.

Director:  Michael Robison

Writers:  Denise Farley, Debra Oliver, Trish Vogel

Actors:  Heather Hemmens, Niall Matter