MickyG333 Reviews

How to Find Forever (2022 TV Movie)

Not fully harmonious

[7/10 · 19 June 2024]

6.6 stars.

It's the classic story of a city woman returning to her hometown for a work project and meeting a man she's never encountered before. What sets this movie apart from others in its genre is that she isn't reconnecting with an old flame or a missed opportunity from her past. The man in question owns and manages an apple orchard with his sister, and he's passionate about perfecting his apple cider recipe for sale. When the female lead needs to use his vineyard for a work event, she faces initial resistance from him, leading to some melancholy moments. Despite their initial standoff, there's a mutual attraction brewing. As they navigate their growing feelings, the romance progresses quickly, then stalls, and eventually picks up again, but the timing never quite aligns. The chronology of their romance feels somewhat rushed and lacks organic development, although the conclusion ties things together well. But, overall this film is just a bit too sluggish to be satisfactorily entertaining, so this semi-bad apple only gets a 6.6 from this feller.

A Greek Recipe for Romance (2024 TV Movie)

Rich boy identity crisis

[7/10 · 19 June 2024]

6.9 stars.

What makes this film stand out? That's the question, considering how many seem interchangeable, particularly those set in Italy, Greece, and France-the romantic Mediterranean countries blending Western and Near Eastern cultures. These movies typically share common elements: food, music, culture, an American protagonist, and a charming foreign love interest. While you can mix these ingredients differently, the films in this collection often feel too alike to offer a unique or captivating experience beyond their familiar entertainment value. It lacks the excitement or novelty to truly refresh. I crave something more daring-not Spain, Italy, Greece, or Paris, nor some fictional Anglo-inspired realm. How about the Middle East, or even Turkey? Imagine sending one of our beloved Hallmark stars to Constantinople or a similarly exotic locale. It's time to embrace a bold change and explore new horizons.

This storyline feels all too familiar-a tale of an American woman in Greece who encounters a somewhat aloof billionaire's son, determined to conceal his privileged background. Intrigued by him, she discovers he's an exceptional Greek cuisine chef, making him the ideal partner to launch a restaurant and boost her career. Yet, his reluctance to reveal his secrets and adapt to the challenges of restaurant ownership presents obstacles. Meanwhile, her character lacks depth beyond their discussions on food, taste, decor, and olive oil. While I appreciate the actress's charm, the lack of dramatic tension leaves this romance feeling unbalanced.

Love Unplugged (2017 TV Movie)

It's a bit different

[7/10 · 18 June 2024]

7.2 stars.

Rebecca and Matthew Jones, a newly married couple, are facing minor financial challenges. Rebecca yearns for a new home, tired of apartment living, while Matthew is hesitant about moving into a house. They each have their reasons. After some circumstances and encouragement, they decide to go "unplugged" whenever they're together-no electronic devices-to rediscover their relationship's roots. This journey helps them reconnect on a deeper level, reminiscent of their pre-marriage days when life, work, and social media weren't distractions. They face obstacles due to missed opportunities from putting their phones down, but their love triumphs over media distraction and instant gratification, ultimately fulfilling their dreams.

The theme captivated me, offering a unique narrative that kept me engaged, anticipating the plot's direction.

I noticed they refrain from kissing on the lips, possibly due to one of the main actors having a personal pact, likely the actress who doesn't frequently appear in movies or shows. Perhaps this choice stems from a spouse's preference, understandable given her past prominence, notably in 'The OC', despite her subsequent career challenges unrelated to her own efforts. She endured harassment, stalking, and abuse, unfortunate realities of Hollywood's darker side. Her resilience is commendable amidst such hardships.

The Mechanics of Love (2017 TV Movie)

The mechanics of resentment

[8/10 · 18 June 2024]

7.5 stars.

Without the strong acting performances, this film would struggle. The ensemble cast shines in their respective roles. The story centers around Matti, a gifted mechanic pursuing an engineering career in the city. Despite her talents, she continually misses out on promotions.

Jake, the male lead, works as a mechanic in her father's garage back home and harbors a long-time crush on Matti. Her mechanical prowess has influenced his career choice.

Returning home to serve as her sister's maid of honor, Matti reconnects with Jake, who is the best man. Together, they restore her late mother's truck amidst wedding preparations. He obviously wants more than a friendship, but she seems unaware of his feelings. However, complications arise when Matti's snobbish city boyfriend unexpectedly arrives, causing tension.

Throughout the film, resentment simmers between Matti and Jake, exacerbated by Clare's growing discontent with her fiancé. The escalating tension hints at a potential breakup before the wedding. Amidst this turmoil, Matti's anger continues to flare towards both her boyfriend and Jake, resulting in discord among everyone involved.

In essence, the film adeptly portrays the dynamics and "mechanics" of resentment leading up to a wedding, creating an atmosphere of intense awkwardness. Viewers are left wondering if the wedding will proceed amidst the unfolding emotional turmoil.

We know how it ends, they never change the formula for these types of films, however the seething discontent is palpable and refreshing.

A Vineyard Romance (2021 TV Movie)

Laid back and relaxing romance

[7/10 · 17 June 2024]

7.3 stars.

I haven't seen this lead actress in any Hallmark movies, but since this film is on UP TV, perhaps it breaks from the usual expectations? The music creates a relaxing, ASMR-like atmosphere in many scenes, seemingly by design. Overall, 'A Vineyard Romance' is laid-back and pleasant, though not particularly thrilling, which is typical for family friendly romances. However, I appreciated the director's intention to provide a soothing and enjoyable viewing experience.

The story follows a familiar trope: both a man and a woman left their hometown of Everlasting, Oregon to pursue their dreams. They agreed to meet one year later at a vineyard on their anniversary, with the possibility of prioritizing their relationship over their dreams if they both showed up.

Jump forward 15 years, she returns to Everlasting to interview a famous bride-to-be at the vineyard, only to discover it's her ex-boyfriend who is getting married to the blogger. Our lead female realizes she's still been missing him after all these years, so old feelings are reignited.

The predictable plot unravels: she arrived at the vineyard that fateful day, 15 years ago, but he didn't-he mistakenly came two days later due to a mix-up in anniversary dates. They've both needlessly yearned for each other since. Throughout most of the film, the reason for his absence at their rendezvous remains a mystery. Eventually, he confesses that he did go to the vineyard, and that's when the crux of the issue is revealed, they missed meeting up together, because of their differing beliefs about the anniversary date-he believed it marked their first date, while she thought it commemorated their first kiss.

In a twist that's typical of light romance films, once they realize they are still meant to be, that they missed the rendezvous because of an honest mistake-instead of altering their plans to be together, they continue with his wedding and her article about his fiancée.

The fiancée, a famous blogger, is assertive yet somewhat sympathetic, making her character complex but overshadowed by the lead female whom the audience prefers. The blogger pressures him into taking a job in New York City he hadn't agreed to, prompting him to abruptly end the engagement just before the wedding, a decision hard to believe given the impending nuptials.

The story unfolds against the backdrop of wedding preparations, where reality and the script diverge, highlighting why emotional investment in such films may not translate to real-life scenarios. In real life, there would likely be confrontations and suspicions, but here, a familiar happy ending wraps things up neatly.

Rome in Love (2019 TV Movie)

Don't write my story!

[7/10 · 17 June 2024]

7.4 stars.

It's the typical story about a woman's private life being exposed to the media, where she feels vulnerable and so on. Personally, I find these narratives hard to believe, so I tend to shrug them off.

She's an ordinary person living in a small town in Oregon, USA, and her life seems stuck in place. However, she finally gets her big break-a long-deserved opportunity she had set aside for various reasons. With her sister's help, she reignites her career and lands a significant role in an Italian movie.

While in Rome, she encounters an American journalist assigned to write her life story, intended to introduce her to the world. The dilemma emerges: she craves success as an actress but shies away from the spotlight. It's an overly familiar trope-the reluctant star-that feels more like wishful thinking than reality. Despite this cliché, I did enjoy the movie. It would be refreshing to see a different approach to creating drama, rather than relying on this well-worn storyline.

Ricci brings her usual charm, making 'Rome in Love' an enjoyable experience for me, despite her character's occasional overreactions. Even her younger sister's role in grounding her in reality and encouraging positivity was a refreshing addition. To quote her sister: "I'm proud of our story, aren't you?"

It's a substantial production by Hallmark standards, likely one of their most expensive in 2019. With the backdrop of Rome, a plethora of props, numerous secondary actors, and plenty of stand-in roles, this was undoubtedly a costly endeavor.

I'm undecided on my final rating. While I thoroughly enjoyed many romantic aspects of the film, there were moments where the momentum stalled. I attribute this to the challenges of managing a large production with numerous moving parts, filmed in a foreign location under tight deadlines and high pressure.

I'm torn between giving this film an 8, but I'm hesitant to justify such high praise, so we will go with 7.4/10. I think I could revisit it in 5 years or more, which leads me to settle on this rating. For context on my rating system, it reflects a blend of overall quality and entertainment value. I find it hard to rate any Hallmark film below 5 stars; they consistently deliver decent filmmaking quality that warrants at least a mediocre rating. Anything below 5 would indicate significant issues like major flaws in sound, cinematography, or acting, which Hallmark's production standards typically avoid.

The Shack (I) (2017)

It's a long film

[6/10 · 15 June 2024]

6.3 stars

If I had to sum up this movie in one word, it would be "metaphysical." It goes deeply into the afterlife, although saying so might spoil the surprise for some. You'll realize this about 30 minutes in. What surprised me was how long the exploration of the afterlife, with its metaphorical and quasi-N. D. E. Elements, lasted-almost two hours. I found myself wondering throughout: what lesson is this story trying to impart?

There's rich symbolism throughout, suggesting insights into the afterlife, even though the protagonist isn't technically dead-making it all quite surreal, which is ironic, considering it's supposed to be surreal, but this takes it to a strange place. It reminded me of many Near-Death Experience stories I've heard, yet here, death isn't confirmed. The narrative is undeniably tragic, deeply so. It's not exactly entertaining; I didn't feel uplifted or fulfilled after watching it. Instead, I was left pondering the author's supernatural concepts, which I personally disagree with. In my view, even in the realm of imagination, the events depicted feel far from anything that could feasibly occur.

However, the film is undeniably accomplished in its presentation. The music, in particular, evokes a lot of emotion. Despite this, I struggled to connect with the intended mood set by the director. There was a noticeable disconnect from reality that proved difficult to bridge.

True Spirit (2023)

A different kind of hero

[8/10 · 14 June 2024]

7.5 stars.

While watching this film, I was captivated by the extraordinary courage displayed by the 16-year-old protagonist. Yet, amidst the awe, I found myself contemplating the fine line between determination and obsession, witnessing the profound sacrifices and enduring pain inherent in the pursuit of life-altering goals. The protagonist's journey, navigating the globe solo aboard her small sailboat "Pink," evoked a blend of admiration and concern. Her quest seemed driven not only by a desire for adventure but by a deeper longing for inner peace and personal accomplishment.

Her willingness to risk life and limb for the sake of her ambitions left me both awestruck and puzzled. What inner turmoil and aspirations led her to embark on such a perilous journey? It's a question that lingers, reminding us of the complexities of the human spirit. Despite her insistence that she's not a hero, her relentless pursuit of excellence through sheer hard work is undeniably heroic.

'True Spirit' is a remarkable film that reaches down into the depths of human determination and passion. It leaves viewers grappling with the profound question of what drives individuals to push themselves to such extremes. Perhaps, as the protagonist herself suggested, it's a love for the craft, in her case, sailing, that surpasses all else. Ultimately, the film serves as a poignant reminder of the boundless capacity of the human spirit to pursue its dreams, no matter the cost.

And what the heck, she was welcomed by over 80,000 people upon her return to Sydney, Australia after the 210 day journey. I guess there are people who find this sort of passion contagious after all. I liked the movie for the emotions it evoked. This review was written by AI, but lacks the human element.

Sisters of the Groom (2017 TV Movie)

Brilliant moments

[8/10 · 13 June 2024]

7.6 stars.

I must start by acknowledging that this film offers a profoundly moving story, and thus, I recommend it. However, viewers may need to persevere through the initial hour, as it can be somewhat perplexing at times.

Parts of the script are marred by glaring errors. Firstly, we encounter a wealthy executive who resides in the same apartment complex as the main female character, yet his affluent status contradicts his supposed lifestyle. Additionally, the female protagonist's occupation is ambiguous, veering from part-time catering to globe-trotting and food critique, leading to confusion regarding the film's premise. Furthermore, inconsistencies abound, with the lead male's brother (who has an upcoming wedding) initially portrayed as older only to be revealed as the younger sibling minutes later, contributing to a disjointed narrative. I was becoming uneasy with the writing at this point, even though the story was satisfying and somewhat entertaining.

Despite these shortcomings, the supporting characters, particularly the lead female's sister, add depth and charisma to the storyline, warranting more screen time. While the music, acting, and cinematography showcase proficiency, the erratic scenes and perplexing moments detract from the overall experience. Moreover, the introduction of what seems to be unfamiliar characters midway through the film disrupts coherence, leaving audiences bewildered about their relevance. But we soon find out they only appear unfamiliar due to a lack of foundation and logical character development.

In essence, for the first half of the movie, while it boasts commendable elements, its faltering script and narrative missteps undermine its potential for a truly engaging viewing experience. In my opinion, there are too many players on the field, or in more generic terminology, too many kids in the sandbox. There is not enough runtime to include this many characters and three smaller plots that are stealing time from the main story. I say, stick with the female lead's sister and her ex-boyfriend storyline and focus a few extra minutes on them, and delete the other sibling stories altogether and this movie becomes more than moderately satisfying.

However, the final 30 minutes of the film deliver an emotional punch, evoking tears and heartfelt moments that tie everything together, culminating in a satisfying conclusion.

South Beach Love (2021 TV Movie)

15 year old princesses

[7/10 · 12 June 2024]

6.7 stars.

Latino girls at the age of 15 have these huge parties. It's similar to sweet 16 for American girls. There are two relatives who are going to create cuisine selections for these parties, but the parties get mixed up, and there are multiple problems that arise between these two supposed 15 year old girlfriends, who are at odds with one another. The male protagonist is a well-known chef and the female protagonist is very competent at her profession, and she can cook too. They were once together many years ago as a young couple, but he left and went to start a restaurant in New York. He has become a celebrity chef, and she doesn't fit comfortably in his shadow. Now he's back and things are tense.

Nothing to write home about. It's about two prima donna families with two prima donna Quinceañeras. The end is emotionally satisfying.

Sweet Magnolias (2020– )

Sickly sweet

[6/10 · 11 June 2024]

6.3 stars.

You may think that a show rate at 6.3 stars is considered a good show. But in my rating system, anything below a seven is not re-watchable. In this case, it's a TV series, so it has to be continually palatable in order for me to finish the series. So around episode seven or eight it became increasingly more sappy and sickly sweet. The situation's are way overdramatized, the children are always so angry and brooding, the romance scenes between the three mothers and these men is borderline cringe. After watching a particular episode, and several romantic encounters between these characters, I felt like I needed a shower. The scenes aren't scandalous or revealing, it's just meh. I find myself feeling some minor revulsion. Cannot continue with this nonsense.

Firefly Lane (2021–2023)

It's a show for women

[6/10 · 11 June 2024]

6.4 stars.

I got through about six episodes and then I had to stop and remove from my Netflix favorites. It's been almost a year since I watched the last episode so I figured I'd try to resume where I left off. I realize why I stopped watching this, it's a great show as far as pure drama and acting performances, and the writing is stellar. Unfortunately, this is a female oriented show so much so that even as a man who enjoys girly stuff, this crosses that invisible line into the land of the fairer sex's thinking patterns. It represents absolute girl power and female targeted themes and conversations. To put it another way throw a few men in front of the screen to watch this and they will not have a clue what's going on because the women are speaking in another language. I have no problem with this sort of television genre, but it's just not something I understand. It's a foreign language.

Savoring Paris (2024 TV Movie)

Fromage fiasco in Paris

[7/10 · 10 June 2024]

7.6 stars.

I'm usually captivated by Ms. Lenz's performances; she's among my favorite talents in the film industry. However, even esteemed artists occasionally venture into unfamiliar territory, as is the case with this French tale of love, cheese, and all things Parisian.

The narrative revolves around a woman named Ella, weary of her life in America, disillusioned by her seemingly stagnant job at a corporate position in a restaurant chain. Despite her aspirations for advancement, she's continuously overlooked, haunted by her mother's expectations yet hindered by her fears of disappointing her. On a whim, Ella decides to go to Paris for a couple of weeks to escape her mundane existence. When the initial two-week stay draws to a close, she chooses to extend her time there significantly.

It's a complex dilemma that unfolds against the backdrop of the enchanting Parisian milieu, where the city, its inhabitants, and its culture dazzle the senses.

Amidst her Parisian escapade, she encounters two charming Frenchmen and swiftly befriends many others. Yet, as the story unfolds, it becomes apparent that even in the City of Light, one cannot outrun their troubles. While the film offers a delightful viewing experience, it falls short in the romance department, lacking a few key elements that would have elevated it further.

Overall, the film is enjoyable, painting a vivid portrait of Parisian life, but not the romantic essence that one might expect from such a rich and exotic setting, featuring Ms. Lenz. I had anticipated a more fulfilling experience with the final outcome, yet it seems something essential was amiss, perhaps it was lost in translation and the constant racket of French music.

Mr. Write (2016 TV Movie)

Surprisingly poignant and rich

[8/10 · 9 June 2024]

7.7 stars.

I was genuinely moved by the narrative of this film. The performances felt authentic and new, and it's a surprise I hadn't stumbled upon it earlier; it served as a delightful diversion for the day. The plot centers around a romance novelist grappling with a year-long writer's block, facing the imminent threat of being replaced by fresher talent by his publisher. However, a junior editor, who harbors a genuine admiration for his work, steps in to defend him, securing him a chance to prove himself again with a tight deadline looming.

The clash of expectations arises when she discovers the novelist is not the romantic hero she imagined, but rather a disheveled and uninspired man with a disdain for romance. Their conflicting views on love immediately ignite tension, especially given her engagement to an ostensibly charming Englishman. Yet, as the audience, we can sense his lack of depth and sincerity.

The film is punctuated with tearful moments, underscored by a soundtrack that resonates deeply with the audience's emotions. The undeniable chemistry between the lead actors makes this film a standout, compelling viewers to experience it firsthand.

FYI: I used AI to write this review. I just write some rough draft (which is totally unpolished and dreary) and the AI pumps out this much better version. I suppose it lacks some personality, but at least what I'm trying to convey is a bit more clear.

Love Alaska (2019 TV Movie)

Clumsy and unbalanced

[7/10 · 9 June 2024]

7.0 stars.

'Love Alaska' presents a unique blend of emotions, combining elements of sadness, hope, anger, and depression, with a touch of failed humor. The narrative follows a group of tourists at a dating retreat in a remote Alaskan town, where individuals from around the world converge to find love. Amidst the comedic moments, there are glimpses of deeper issues as the protagonist, grappling with PTSD, pushes away help and seeks solace in solitude, haunted by feelings of disappointment and avoidance of emotional entanglements.

The lead female character, returning to her hometown after years away, inherits a medical practice following her uncle's passing. As the past relationship between the two leads resurfaces after a 15-year hiatus, the film delves into their personal struggles and strained dynamics. Despite some awkward and tense moments, the movie falls short in striking a necessary balance between military veterans' challenges and normal life.

While the film's attempt at humor may feel mistimed, it serves to prevent the narrative from becoming overly bleak, making it somewhat more engaging for viewers. Overall, 'Love Alaska' struggles to deliver the emotional weight required to fully convey the complexities of its characters' struggles.

Love at First Bark (2017 TV Movie)

Melodrama with bonus dogs

[7/10 · 7 June 2024]

7.3 stars.

You might be thinking this is a standard movie about dogs and people, but it tends to lean more toward human melodrama. It's not a cutesy cuddly story as much as it's about a woman with insecurities, who happens to adopt a wonderful dog. She meets a guy who loves and trains dogs and she needs his help with her dog.

It's obvious that her dog is even-tempered and well mannered, so that storyline is not very believable, but we can overlook the inconsistency for sake of romance and drama - for now.

The lead female is driven, yet notably insecure. She lacks confidence in her career as she branches out from a large interior design firm to starting her own business with her talented co-worker and designer friend. They embark on this difficult journey and immediately struggle to get new clients.

The rest of the film is about her falling for a dog guy, but he's having trouble getting over his previous girlfriend who dumped him two years ago. As our two leads become more intimate, her insecurities surface even more profoundly and the relationship is jeopardized.

The story is repetitive. If you've seen any of the Hallmark puppy oriented stories (there are plenty), they all have this theme. This movie might be tweaked just a little in this or that direction, but 'Love at First Bark' is not unique. The difference for me is I haven't seen this lead female in many Hallmark films and it's nice to see someone different. Unfortunately, she is a bit stiff. On a positive note, her face is lovely and she's charismatic, so I can overlook most of the wooden moments. The lead male is a Hallmark favorite for a decade, so he's always a good casting choice.

I think the script is a bit too deliberate and lacks originality. The actors were only half-hearted in creating something unique and entertaining. However, the supporting female business partner adds an uplifting aspect to the story, which I feel is worth mentioning. Her portrayal of a somewhat bubbly and supportive friend was quite refreshing. I feel she deserved more screen time, but I know it would lessen the lead female's impact.

For Love & Honey (2024 TV Movie)

Honey is not enough

[7/10 · 4 June 2024]

7.4 stars.

'For Love & Honey' cannot measure up to the usual standards without the addition of a treasure hunt. The story is about a professor of archaeology from Michigan who is teaching courses in Malta. He needs to make a discovery to find something historically relevant and notable or he won't receive tenure as s professor in a Michigan university. He meets a beekeeper on the island and she is a "character" to say the least. They "run" into each other when she almost runs him over with her motorcycle on the narrow streets. As they get acquainted, there is no love between them, although there is definite attraction.

The two of them happen to discover a fresco in an old Roman structure that he soon learns may contain historical significance. The rest of the story is about them attempting to decipher the painting. She is helping him to navigate around the island while she tags along in the journey. Or is he tagging along? It seems he's the one doing the following as she leads. She wears the pants in this symbiotic partnership, but for what? It's really his discovery to be made. They have some fairly childish arguments that I could have done without, to be honest. It's as if he has to act like a kid to get his point across to her. Somehow that makes her character much less sympathetic, so we are alienated from her for half the film.

In the end it's mainly about honey and a little about archaeology. I wish it was more balanced. I really enjoyed the mystery of the painting, although it's a bit strange and feels less organic and more of a concoction of nonsense. The romance is palpable and the chemistry between the leads is alive at times. I didn't really get very acquainted with the lead female at first, she seemed distant to the audience. I'm not sure about her acting style, it's a bit different in some way not completely understood.

The story was exciting for the treasure hunt, but something is missing and I can't put a finger on it. Maybe it's the portrayal of her personality, how she is open and willing one moment, then closed off the next, and his character can only be confused by her difficult mannerisms, which doesn't lend itself to making this a truly entertaining watch. However, I still liked it for the good parts. There are some very nice moments, the kisses were passionate and enjoyable.

Summer in the City (2016 TV Movie)

Style and fashion

[8/10 · 3 June 2024]

7.6 stars.

I wrote a good review, it disappeared, whatever. This is the story of a girl in a small Ohio town who is discovered by a big city Manhattan clothing store owner. The owner likes her style and fashion sense, so she hires her to manage her store in Manhattan, on the spot. She accepts the offer and heads to NYC. She meets a lot of colorful personalities, and there is some backstabbing, and her boss turns out to be somewhat more difficult than anticipated.

She meets a real estate guy who is helping her find a place to live. They get into a cozy symbiotic relationship and there is also a lot of attraction. Eventually, they both hit some roadblocks in their careers due to discouraging words from their superiors and the relationship starts to fizzle.

This film is very enjoyable, albeit it's primarily about fashion and the pitfalls of that world, E.g. 'The Devil Wears Prada', but on a much smaller scale and without the same ramifications or level of cutthroat characters.

'Summer in the City' is still very entertaining in spite of the fashion theme. There are a few recognizable actors, definitely more noticeable than the usual Hallmark repertoire, so I know this was a bigger budget production. But, in the end, it's a fashionable love story, with the scales tipped a bit more in favor of the fashion.

A Dog Named Duke (2012 TV Movie)

Very touching, but sloppy

[6/10 · 2 June 2024]

6.4 stars.

I think this movie had a lot of potential, but I wasn't able to watch it all. There are some very slow and dragging moments throughout and I got to the point at 25 minutes there was a total lack of progress. The story went flat. The first twenty minutes is a sort of back story. Then we skip forward and things have changed, his daughter and wife are different (I think his wife died, but I'm not sure, didn't see that part).

So the story at that point was about a homeless vet and his stray dog named Duke. Duke the dog is the best and only part of this film worth watching. I usually like Steve Webber, but for some reason his portrayal is just weird.

Now to the incongruence of multiple factors. A stray dog finds a man in need and this dog is well trained and gifted, yet no microchip and no name tag? The level of disability he has isn't quite consistent with his function and his physical therapy regimen doesn't seem quite right. He complains about how the family doesn't have enough money to get by now that he's kicked out of the Marines (for disability). They already live in a slightly ramshackle home and drive an old beat up car and truck. She is a teacher and he's in the Marines. Both of them appear to have been in these professions for at least 20 years. Not to mention, he would be making more money on full disability and Social Security than he ever did in the Marines. When filmmakers are lazy about the details, it reflects poorly on the whole production.

He left the sick dog at the vet, they couldn't find him for who knows how long to let him know the dog actually lived. The vet assistant had seen him, recognized him, knew he was homeless and couldn't afford to care for the dog. It would not have been that difficult to find him.

A shame I have to rip it apart, the story is so emotional and moving and had so much potential. I figured maybe the ending would bring it around, but not really. Too many unfulfilled fragments of secondary characters.

Surprised by Love (2015 TV Movie)

Hallmark version of rom-com

[8/10 · 2 June 2024]

7.7 stars.

Funny thing, I've seen a hundred movies like this, although I can't remember any in particular. It's not your usual rom com, blockbuster, roll-on-the-floor, knee slapper; but it doesn't mean I didn't enjoy the scent of uplifting and clever. Sure, it's not as memorable, per se, as most romantic comedies, but what do you expect with Hallmark's attempt at mainstream wit?

This is a very light-hearted version of the "romantic comedy" genre, and it has its moments. It's not on par with the great rom coms we all really love and quote from time to time, such as: Harry met Sally, sleepless, you've got mail, Doubtfire, best friends wedding, the holiday, Notting Hill, sixteen candles, Ferris Bueller.... I can go on and on (I looked up the 100 best rom-coms, and these are on the list-seen 'em all, who hasn't?). Like I said, it's a Hallmark attempt at funny and memorable, and it's unique and will stand the test of time. If you asked me for a somewhat indelible Hallmark film from 2015, 'Surprised by Love' makes the cut.

Been recording every Hallmark movie for almost two years straight, old and new releases, and this is the first I've come across 'Surprised by Love' and I'm surprised by that! It's nice to have a hidden gem emerge to the surface from time to time.

Butlers in Love (2022 TV Movie)

Butling is a science

[8/10 · 1 June 2024]

7.6 stars.

I just recorded this on DVR, forgot I watched it over a year ago. Obviously it didn't stick with me enough to stand out in my mind, but as I watch it again, I'm figuring whether I've fabricated my own personal revisionist history. What I initially recall is that 'Butlers in Love' did not leave any notable impression. I forgot to write a review at the time (I miss about 1% for whatever reasons). But as I re-watch, I'm startled to find this film is even better the second time around.

Relationships can seem fickle, but the leads have a certain bond that cannot be mistaken and I am totally enthralled by the evolution of their relationship. The lead female stumbles through her training, all the while we realize she is the best student at the butler academy, so she really grows on you with her clumsy, yet endearing nature. The lead male's struggle with his father's inflexibility, how he wants to be a chef, but he cares for her so much that he's willing to risk some of his dreams and sacrifice some of his goals to help her and hopefully win her heart....

This feels like a true butlery sort of tale, you get the feeling of being there, if just a little, as if we are peering in on butlers loving their profession and not being enslaved or burdened by it. I wouldn't mind being one myself, but the film portrays quite sufficiently, butling is not for the faint of heart.

It's truly a wonderful love story.

A Wish Come True (2015 TV Movie)

A bit pretentious

[7/10 · 1 June 2024]

6.9 stars.

To summarize my feelings in a few words: a bit pretentious. The filmmaker took liberties attempting to fit too many pieces into a small container. In other words, they took on too much with a limited budget and not enough time to squeeze a big story into a small window of time.

There are too many characters, which convolutes the script and leaves the male lead with too little screen time. I don't feel he was developed enough to be "worthy" of the lead female, although the actor himself is more than up to the challenge. Her performance is hit and miss due to her obliviousness to his continuous hints. I just don't think it portrays a very likable or believable lead female, so it's a bit disappointing. Generally, women are much more intuitive.

Unfortunately, the film doesn't measure up to the script's potential. All of her wishes coming true by her 30th birthday is quite genius and at times it is exciting to see how the writer imagined it all to take place. Some of the wishes are cool and intriguing and for them to happen is really fun. It's a great idea, but they didn't execute it to my liking.

'A Wish Come True' starts off slow, then becomes entertaining, then flattens out, all the while too many moving parts. Oh well, so much potential squandered. If I were a producer, my advice would be: longer run time, more money, a few actor switches.

The lead female is endearing and pleasant, I've always enjoyed her in all her roles for Hallmark. You should see the other Hallmark movie where she's a New Yorker, but she is dating a prince. I kinda like her in 'A Wish Come True' a bit more, but the other movie isn't bad. I didn't like her as much in another film called: 'Time for Me to Come Home for Christmas' (2018), but it was the best movie of the three (the lead male had an amazing performance).

Perfect Harmony (2022 TV Movie)

Feel good with music

[7/10 · 31 May 2024]

7.2 stars.

This story was probably the perfect romance for Hallmark. Two lonely adults need a soulmate. They have practically hated each other for a decade, got off on the wrong foot when they met, one of the worst first impressions - went both ways.

There is some really good sound and music in the film, which I really liked. There are several additional characters that share in the romance and the story as a whole. It's nice to see a Hallmark movie where they showcase 5 or more characters instead of just the two main ones.

Was this a 10/10, heck no. I don't understand those inflated ratings. I do understand why this was good, because the acting and the dialogue didn't disappoint. But, for me it was just average for a Hallmark romance. The story and all is great, but I wasn't totally convinced with the chemistry.

The last 10 minutes was fantastic.

Take Me Home (2011)

Two strangers in a cab

[8/10 · 30 May 2024]

7.6 stars.

A woman is pretty sure her husband is cheating on her, and a man has recently been evicted. She hails him while he's driving his cab, and these two strangers drive across the country on a whim.

This is a moving story about two people who fall in love through all the adversity that two people can experience. We see each through the lens of the other as they organically become acquainted. As time passes, we catch a glimpse into their innermost being, to the filthy human core. And what we discover is that these two are just about the coolest humans on the planet. I love how this film picks apart our humanity, exposes the skeletons, paints a picture of how rotten we feel about ourselves, but we're just people. Once we realize everyone feels the same, maybe life can be a bit easier.

I recommend this for anyone who feels a little lost.

Dial a Prayer (2015)

I almost missed the point

[7/10 · 30 May 2024]

7.0 stars.

Entertainment value is my main criteria for a high rating, no matter how deep or touching a film. As you will see below, this movie is very penetrating and meaningful, with a profound lesson that I think most people will miss. Heck, I almost missed it, but as I pondered why did she do this, why did he do that, why is she crying in this situation, why is she hallucinating, why is her mother so distressed...now I get it. It's deep, but it's not massively entertaining, thus only the 7.0 stars.

This is a story about a saint who made a few bad choices. She believes in God, she grew up as the "little angel" her mother remembers. She went astray, started taking drugs, hanging out with dark souls, torched a church and a woman in the church got burnt or injured pretty badly.

She meets a guy who is a mysterious stranger, come to find out he's the burnt woman's son. She doesn't find out he's the son until near the end and she is angry about finding out this way. They already made love in his motel room the night before. She feels betrayed and she's conflicted in so many ways.

Not to mention her absentee father, who is a high powered lawyer and he's never home and her mom is in denial about the fact that he will probably never show them love and affection as a father and husband should. She is not in denial about her father's neglect, but he did get her off easy from the felony, now she's only required to do community service answering a prayer line.

The theme is about a saint. She is the only person that actually cares about everyone around her. She cares even though she is so extremely troubled and disappointed in humanity and herself. She makes it a point to visit her sick co-worker and nobody else does. She feels bad for the stranger guy, who seems like a total creep at first. He tells her that she changed his life, even though he wanted to get back at her for what she did to his mom. Insteada, he is "saved" because of her genuine kindness. Not that she's kind at first, but he senses that she is special. And her boss can sense she's special too and he wants her to stick around and answer the prayer line longer than required. She is gifted with answering this prayer line, she is the only one that seems to be working real miracles in the lives of troubled callers. And yet, she seems to be the only person in this whole story that is truly miserable. It doesn't help that her mom is disillusioned by the fact she did such a heinous act in burning down the church, but let's face it, she only did it because she's disappointed in life and in God, but isn't that how saints are born?

She has hallucinations or daydreams (not sure which) of people she has helped or could help through their struggles, and she feels so enriched by these visions. We can see that her true desire in life is to help everyone. She really loves people, but she is constantly let down by the disinterest and lack of charity exhibited in all the people around her.

Good people fornicate sometimes, but the story does not reveal if she is remorseful for it. I imagine if she felt bad for this, then this would be a "preachy" film instead of a more palatable catharsis.