mrocco-1 Reviews

Last Seen Alive (2022)

Not high budget but good old fashioned entertainment

[10/10 · 23 March 2024]

This is a short movie but we really enjoyed it. The watching experience is enhanced by knowing that the fabulous Gerard Butler ad-libbed most of his scenes. This is isn't intended to be an Oscar worthy movie on any level. It is meant to entertain for about 90 minutes and it did just that.

I have to write more to post a reviews, so now for my rant. I don't know what is wrong with people or understand their perspectives. Ignore the bad reviews, unless your are a woke movie snob. This is a movie where there are good guys and bad buys and the good guys win. There is no token woke character parts that you know are just checking boxes, other than the white trailer trash meth heads (with some color mixed in). And I don't need movies to mimic real life. Sure, some of the outcome is implausible, but so what. I want some good action with a happy ending and this movie delivered.

Captive Audience (2022)

Well done Hulu

[10/10 · 17 March 2024]

I know the case. It is so tragic and it feels weird to give a rating. But for years I tried to find more recent interviews with Kay and other family members so this series provided some kind of closure for me. Kay seems like an incredibly strong woman and I can't imagine the tragedy of her 'true' life. When she said true stories rarely have happy endings my heart broke. My review is simply to say that I was happy to see the family and to know that they did survive.

As far as all the negative reviews about the having scenes from the old tv movie and the actors reading old interviews, so for me it made perfect sense. Steven's 2 children are quoted as saying they thought the move WAS their dad and that is where they got all their impressions and information because nobody talked to them about their actual dad. I thought weaving the fictional movie into this documentary was pitch perfect, because that is the actual reality. They did a great job on reminding us what was real and what was fictionalized for those of us that watched the movie when it came out and thought the movie was the true story. I wish the best that life can offer to Steven's family, they have been through so much. Kay is an inspiration on what it means to persevere.

City of Angels, City of Death (2021– )

Well done crime documentary

[10/10 · 8 February 2024]

If you are in to true crime this is a fantastically produced documentary. They don't repeat the same stuff over and over like the cable crime shows. The actual detectives who investigated the crime are in this production. And some well known faces to the true crime community are here (Paul Holes and Matt Murphy). It's so nice to see Matt since I live in Orange County where Matt was a prosecutor and the recent host at Crime Com awards.

As usual, I'm reminded about how much I absolutely hate the media, this series does not provide any exception to that sentiment. They are a bunch of vultures that care more about a story than respecting an investigation. If they are exceptions it just proves the rule.

Beauty and the Billionaire (2022)

For Romance lovers this GREAT, way better than usual chessy romance

[10/10 · 13 January 2024]

I watch a lot of romance movies from big budget RomComs to Hallmark. Although I pretty much enjoy them all, there's often frustration around the scripted 'conflict' that leaves me screaming at the TV "just tell him!" I stumbled upon this Prime offering not expecting more than the usual Hallmark level fare. To my surprise I found the writing of this was way above my expectations. The actors all did a great job and all the elements made sense. The set up to allow the romance to occur worked. The always needed 'conflict' really worked (no misheard end of a conversation that a simple dialogue would solve or silly secret). The whole movie gelled together really well. I looked up the production company, candlelight media LLC. That lead me to another one of their romance movies 'Love in Aruba' also on prime. It featured the same actress (she's really pretty, likable and believable). This was another romance with a great story line! Kudos to them, it's awesome to see someone putting in an effort to come up with above par scripts to fulfill my need for cheesy romance. Both movies were delightful, thank you for that. When I logged into IMDB I saw something in the trivia section about 5 collaborations between writer producer and actress, I will have to seek them out.

Exposed: The Ghost Train Fire (2021– )

the first 2 parts are compelling

[6/10 · 6 January 2024]

It was hard to watch this, very raw to watch the parents of children who tragically perished in this monstrous act. The takeaway for me is that the fire was started intentionally by some hoodlum youths. There was clearly some corruption in the fact that the few corrupt upper echelon police officials wanted it 'case closed' and could possibly be for their own financial gain by acquiring the land. But no way did they even come close to showing that these few were actually behind the fire, that was a real stretch to me. The story line they pursue by accusing these officials of being behind the original act of arson seemed way out of line , but that is the kind of story the public eats up. I almost turned off Episode 3 because it was sooo far fetched.

Lost & Found in Rome (2021 TV Movie)

Great Cheesy Romance

[8/10 · 9 December 2023]

If you hate cheesy Hallmark romance movies don't watch this. If you do like cheesy romance I thought this was well worth a watch. The only 'issue' is the naivete of the heroine and using a pretty ridiculous premise to set up the plot. But she's so kind in nature (and so pretty) that you want to buy into the story anyway. Every other part of the movie, once you suspend disbelief, is well done. All the actors are great including her father (played by Max Caulfield), the cafe owner played by Jamie Lunar (who I've adored since The Pretender) and the Hero played by an Paolo Bernardini who I've seen in other movies (e was the reason I sought this out) and his parents in the movie are absolutely gorgeous. I don't think this every played on tv because something was wrong with how a few of the scenes were shot, kind of like watching an old 90's tv movie. I made an effort to get to this and really enjoyed it.

9/11: I Was There (2021 TV Movie)

Hard to listen to these people

[7/10 · 13 September 2023]

Anything with film footage from 9/11 is a must see. But this one was hard to get through because of the attitudes of some of the people living in the area and on the live footage. Specifically the young man Josh and the two twenty-something roommates (can't remember their names). They just seemed so callous, joking and thinking it was cool or something (until the girls feared for themselves or their cats). I remember watching 9/11 unfold live (in California) and balling my eyes out thinking of the poor souls in the buildings. Some of the people (not all) in this documentary seem to not have much feeling for anyone but themselves.

Three Wise Men and a Baby (2022 TV Movie)

What's not to love

[10/10 · 24 November 2022]

I'm a diehard Hallmark fan, so of course I loved this movie for all the reasons mentioned on so many reviews. But what really struck me was some of the subtle things like not winning the contest, making friends with the neighbor instead of getting some kind of lighthearted revenge and the annoying girl you think will not get one of the handsome Wise Men does. There was a feel to this that seemed to eschew some of the typical hallmark themes by putting the romance as more of a sub plot while rekindling the love between a mother and her sons. Paul and Kimberly are amazing at taking familiar cliche movie stuff and repackaging it into a fun Hallmark worthy story but with a modern twist. Keep up the good work.

The Secret: Dare to Dream (2020)

Ignore the cynical basement dwellers

[10/10 · 6 October 2022]

If you like feel good movies that lift you up just watch it, you won't be disappointed. It reminds me of the old Hallmark Sunday night movie specials before hallmark movies became a weekly event. High production quality, top notch actors and a great script. I've loved Katie Holmes since 'Pieces of April', if you haven't seen that one, find it and watch it. She's a revelation in that. The message is valid, the secret or laws of attraction have been around forever, in my youth it was packaged as the power of positive thinking. Ignore the bad reviews unless you hate romantic feel good movies. But if you do like the genre you won't be disappointed with this gem.

Dog (I) (2022)

Loved everything about it

[10/10 · 29 September 2022]

Lately I've been learning more about war then I ever thought about before. I admit it comes from listening to Jocko podcast. I hadn't paid attention to what it is all about and the debt we owe to our military. I didn't know this was advertised as a comedy as many reviewers have pointed out. I don't care. There are funny moments but this movie is as serious as it gets. It's a glimpse into the darkness that war can leave on a soul, man or dog. I also didn't know that Mr. Tatum directed it. Fantastic job. The entire movie was pitch perfect. Side note, I find the down votes on the positive reviews really strange. Are these anti-war people? If they would only pay attention to what would happen without war when many evil people exist on the planet. God bless freedom.

A Tail of Love (2022 TV Movie)

Bad Message

[3/10 · 5 June 2022]

The movie was well done. The acting and writing was good except for the thing that made me rate this a 3. Our Hero is a soldier but to be with the Heroine he has to give that up. She didn't grow or learn things about herself. She just got what she wanted which was to force him to give up his military career that he was happy with. I prefer my heroines with more of a backbone and the ability to to be admirable. She was an immature child woman and by the end I wasn't rooting for her, I wanted him to leave! That is probably a first for this Hallmark addict.

Crashing Through the Snow (2021 TV Movie)

WE NEED A DUO WEDDING SEQUEL

[10/10 · 14 April 2022]

I haven't missed a Hallmark/Hallmark MM/Lifetime/UP romance movies in over a decade. I love them all, although some stand way above others. This is top of class, mostly due to a story line that put the conflict on the divorce/insecurity situation instead of the usual easily solved misunderstanding between the H/h. Then add the HIGH caliber acting, I swear that Amy Acker steals every production she's in, although Warren Christie, with his classic movie star good looks, holds his own. I always wonder if acting is like playing tennis, you rise to the level of your opponent. They were both smoking hot!

This is a keeper and how fun would it be to have a them reprise these characters in a June 'duo' wedding movie? Yes a little unrealistic but isn't that what romance movies are all about?

PS when I read people criticize the movies I love best for not being realistic or whatever the usual Hallmark criticisms are, I always think I have way too much realism in my life, please give me fantasy, cheesy wholesomeness and lots of HEA's!

The Toolbox Killer (2021)

You have got to be kidding me

[2/10 · 2 November 2021]

It is a well done documentary. But I had difficulty getting through the murder details, so just skipped when the details got to graphic. The main interviewer, Laura, was psycho herself. All her giggling on the phone made me physically sick. You can say this was for some greater good but I call BS. Her 'connection' to this sick sadistic killer and visiting him while pregnant? Then talking to him while in labor, sending pictures of her SON and asking him to be an honorary uncle? OMG this woman should be ASHAMED of herself, but instead she is proud of putting her goals before her son. Look how empathetic and non-judgemental I am!!!! Can you imagine sending your kid's picture to a serial killer and ask him to be his her uncle? She never once condemns a man who tortured young girls with items from a tool box in the worst way imaginable, let that sink in. His murders were so horrific the investigator killed himself over it. She actually buys into his remorse when he's dying as something other than self-pity and manipulation. And she states she was sad when he died because he was an authentic friend? God I hope no one in law enforcement employs this woman. Thank God for the voice of the FBI profiler (who is a bad-a** lady) and the prosecutor, or I wouldn't have been able to get through this tripe. One star for each of them.

Crazy, Not Insane (2020)

Apparently Evil is a religious concept and doesn't exist?

[1/10 · 8 August 2021]

I admit I didn't get past the first 5 minutes. As soon as I saw the interview where the main character states that evil is a religious concept I hit stop and delete. I can't understand how anyone can possibly believe that the concept of an evil person is somehow connected to religion. So therefore if you don't believe in a creator/God, good and evil don't exist? If I was someone who didn't believe in God I would find that just as offensive as when religious people spout that you can't be moral unless you believe in God. Utter nonsense. Evil exists, period. I've seen it. If you're not as bothered as I am about this statement it's possible it's a decent documentary.

Elizabeth Smart: Autobiography (2017)

The importance of family

[10/10 · 1 July 2021]

Wow, this was very compelling. I'm old enough to have been completely immersed in this horror story when it happened, shocked when she was found alive (she really is the poster child of HOPE for families with missing loved ones) and happy that she seemed happy in later years. This documentary gifted me with knowing how well her life has turned out. She is one amazing young woman, one of a kind. The takeaway for me was really about the importance of strong family values. I don't think Elizabeth would have survived and thrived after her ordeal had she not come from such a loving close knit family unit. It doesn't have to be centered around faith or religion, although those kind of values can certainly lead to a stronger family life. And I'm not even religious. IMHO the fact that she came from such a loving family played a role in the happy outcome of this story and cannot be ignored. I'm so glad she still believes in fairy tale endings...

Enola Holmes (2020)

I'm a woman

[5/10 · 2 June 2021]

What a shocker, another 'Men are BAD' movie. The top review says ' If you are a grown man criticizing it, back off'. I'm a grown woman, grew up in the 60's and 70's, and I'm criticizing it. The new world order is to portray all (or even the majority of) men as controlling towards women and girls, which is simply not the truth. It hurts to see society is swallowing this load of crap hook line and sinker. To be told you need to be empowered is to take away the power you already have.

Bridgerton (2020– )

As a huge fan of Julia Quinn this was a bomb

[1/10 · 6 January 2021]

I couldn't even finish the 1st episode. If you're a fan of the regency historical romance genre, you may be as disappointed as I was. Maybe not, to each his own. For me it was a complete bomb. Didn't like any of the characters right out the gate. Maybe the problem is Ms. Quinn writes such fiere funny characters it's hard to accept what I perceive as bad casting choices. Maybe it would be very enjoyable to those not attached to the Bridgerton books.

Feel the Beat (2020)

Fully entertaining Hot Dog Stand movie

[9/10 · 23 October 2020]

I love cheese, I love dance and predictability doesn't bother me in the least. Completely entertaining movie. The acting was really great, I could buy into the entire storyline and characters. The kids were adorable. I'm not familiar with the young lead actress but have to say wow! That girl looks amazing and boy can she dance! it was treat to watch her. She isn't the best dancer on the planet, but she clearly is a DANCER with great visual style and grace, no body doubles here. In fact the entire cast appeared to do their own dancing which was wonderful. There are some cheesy movies that are painful to watch even for this cheese lover, but this one was enjoyable and hit all the feel good predictable marks. A fun family friendly movie with some redemption and forgiveness thrown in. When you go to a hot dog stand you don't expect filet mignon, right? This isn't some grand opus of movie making art and shouldn't be compared to something like Gone With The Wind lol. The pompousness of some reviewers crack me up. I was fully entertained and watched it commercial free on Netflix. In 2020 avoiding commercials has become a necessity to stay sane in an insane world....

W.E. (2011)

Worth watching, esp in 2020

[8/10 · 21 September 2020]

I always read the reviews before watching, usually the more negative ones to get a clue if I don't want to bother. I almost never don't finish a movie (or book) no matter how bad, so want to avoid that torture if I can. I just want a good story with no cliffhanger endings, doesn't have to be sophisticated or mind blowing lol. One of the negative reviews said something about no resolution so I went in with trepidation. I'm so glad I watched it, completely entertained. The story of two women from different times who share a first name and some similarities in their lives (something like Julie & Julia). Everything felt 'resolved' so to speak. I would say it's a romance of sorts, with the idea that there is no such thing as pure fairy tale endings. Maybe the moral being one's ability to make changes to alter your destiny, with lots of undertones on what fame and celebrity can do.

If you're looking for some entertainment that isn't about any of the social issues going on in 2020 AND no commercial breaks, add it to your netflix list :)

Living Proof (2017)

WAKEUP CALL

[10/10 · 20 August 2020]

Watch this movie, it will educate you!!! It reiterates the evil of big pharma and some BIG charities, and highlights the greatness of the right diet and supplements. I believe in drugs that WORK, and I do take one for my autoimmune disorder, but in conjunction with a change in diet. This movie reminds the viewer that not everything can be eradicated with just a pill. Having gone Paleo/Gluten free and taking all the right supplements for my Hashimoto's, I can attest to the impact of proper diet. Now Hashi's is like kindergarten compared to MS, but both are autoimmune disorders and I believe anyone diagnosed with any autoimmune disorder needs to man (or woman) up and take control of what they eat! It will also hit you in the gut watching people struggling with this horrible disorder. I can tell you the when I get up tomorrow I will remember this movie and remind myself to be more joyful for my good health, it really is the most important thing.

The Lake House (2006)

A stellar film if you like romance

[10/10 · 30 July 2020]

One of the great ones. I have to say that dance/kiss scene is one of the sexiest scenes ever filmed, no removal of clothes needed.

Clive Davis: The Soundtrack of Our Lives (2017)

Only complaint is I wish it were longer

[10/10 · 18 July 2020]

This would have been even better if it were longer, like a 6 part series. I feel that way about most documentaries, even 'Country' which WAS 6 parts lol. I have to give it a 10 because you need to watch it so you know who this great man is, an icon in the music industry but not a household name. I've known who Clive was since my younger years, but didn't go down any rabbit holes on the topic of Clive Davis until recently. It's inspiring to know he's still working as I write this in 2020. Go Clive!!!

Mindhunter (2017–2019)

The crime portions a 10, the filler is excruciating

[7/10 · 25 June 2020]

The parts about crime and the birth of profiling are stellar. Unfortunately they spend way to much time on the personal lives of the characters. Snooze fest. Plus I would say Bill and Nancy's marriage is a public service announcement on staying single. Geez, I'm so grateful to not have a constantly nagging spouse.

Outlander (2014– )

Haven't read the books, still in season 1 and I'm hooked watching with my dad.

[10/10 · 22 April 2020]

I've seen this advertised but never really paid attention. I'm an avid reader or historical romance novels so it is ironic that I didn't know about this particular series. I literally read a few books a week. So my 86 year old dad, who I see every week or so (he's usually off running around still running his company and rarely home), called me a few weeks ago to tell me there is this show that he is addicted to called Outlander and I must watch it. Well, I don't get Starz so I had to go over there last Saturday and we watched the first 6 episodes. He's coming here this Saturday to watch the rest of season 1. Because of his age and issues with memory he has no problem watching twice as he's picking up thing he didn't quite catch before. How can I not love a show that gives me my favorite genre and connects me to my dad! So happy we can watch this together and bond instead of talking about his company (he's a workaholic).

Be warned there is nudity and sex, but neither of us our prudes and we just get a little silly during those scenes. Now if my mom were still on this earth we would not be watching this show together lol.

Thank you for the gift of providing a show that a fifty something year old woman who loves romance can enjoy with her 86 year old dad who loves history.

Call the Midwife (2012– )

Shows the good side of people

[10/10 · 2 June 2019]

I happen to like shows that highlight the bright side of humanity. This is the show for that. I just started watching (on S1E3) and have gotten teary eyed several times. No cliche's here such as all religious people being evil or husbands being abusers. Instead they highlight the beautiful part of being human and caring about others. I resisted watching this, thought it would be boring or soap opera-ish or politically driven. A friend the knows me well kept saying I would love it and she was right, I do. While it does cover social issues it feels like there is no particular agenda other than the facts of life during the time period covered and how people can show compassion towards one another.