jlbsword

IMDb member since March 2020
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    IMDb Member
    4 years, 1 month

Reviews

A Whitewater Romance
(2024)

Dishwater Romance
Even the cute and likeable Benjamin Hollingsworth could not save this dreary and boring effort. Having to accept the premise that a woman that apparently has an important job and is good at it would be forced to participate in an activity that is uncomfortable, and then be so completely out of her depth is just ridiculous. And she alternates between being quite rude and overly friendly to the others there. Hallmark needs to stop using Cindy so much. Her last few movies have been disappointing. Her dialogue and way of interacting seems very stilted and not believable. The rest of the actors added little to the story and were not even all that likeable. All in all, just not a good effort and not worth watching more than once, if you can even get through it the first time.

To All A Good Night
(2023)

To all - a good movie!
This was a lovely movie with many touching scenes and a sweet story of two people, both grieving, but finding each other. I appreciated the portrayal of grief done is a way that we can all relate to, especially at Christmas when we feel it more deeply. I love Kimberly and would watch any movie she is in. I particularly enjoyed her movies with Paul Campbell. I have not seen Mark in much but he was very good in this role. The beautiful scenery in and around Oak Bay (part of Victoria) adds to the story. I I chuckled at "Sally's" as I have been to that cafe. I don't remember the Christmas burgers but it does have great food and beautiful views. The ending had me in tears, as we see these two people find their way back to love and each other. Very well done. Definitely worth a watch.

Aloha Heart
(2023)

Taylor & son make a movie...
This could have been a much better movie, but what was the casting department thinking? Taylor is turning 40 and I saw Kanoa recently in a show playing a teenager. I am all for older ladies finding love with younger men but I don't think that was Hallmark's intention. Perhaps they think we won't notice. This was also done in Love in Zion and again, it spoiled the movie. The setting here was lovely, and some environmental concerns were included in the story, but the movie just did not work with this pairing. Taylor deserves better. She is a popular female lead and always good in her roles. I wish they had made more of the Ruby Herring series. Those were great and Taylor was paired with the very handsome (and age appropriate) Steven Huszar. Their connection and chemistry was obvious in that series, but not evident at all in this movie. And Kanoa will be a great addition to the younger male leads but let's pair him with a believable partner. This won't be on my "watch again" list.

Make Me a Match
(2023)

Love and how to find it...
I enjoyed this movie on several levels. First, it was so nice to see Eva in an adult role, after seeing her as Jennifer Shannon's teen daughter in the Garage Sale mysteries. It was also nice to see a new leading man, handsome and likeable and a good match for Eva's character. But the real star of this story is Raina, a lovely, caring woman that has had a great love in her life and now wants to help others find that same future. We learn and appreciate the customs and ceremonies of the Indian culture and see the joyful engagement and wedding events. Some realism is also included with the breakdown of Vivi's parents' marriage and the acceptance of the idea that love sometimes comes to an end. There was much to enjoy in this move. Very well done.

Love in Zion National: A National Park Romance
(2023)

Really, Hallmark??
I enjoyed the first National Parks romance and was looking forward to this one, but even the spectacular scenery and landmarks of Zion could not help this movie. It was so historically inaccurate that it spoiled the plot. Also, the ages of the characters did not work. The grandmother, a lovely character, looked about 50. Cindy is now 40 but was paired with a male lead that is 32 (and looked 25) and they had no connection at all. And I hope that David actually has ties to native heritage. His bio is sparse. They set out for a 6 day hike with small backpacks. Where was their food, water, clothing, supplies, etc. Just not believable at all. Even the vases looked fake and simplistic. This is a popular park but they did not meet anyone on their hike. And are campfires safe these days what with all of the fires burning across the west? There were just so many little annoying features that took away from the story. If there are others in this series, I hope they are much better and more realistic than this sad excuse for a movie.

Welcome to Valentine
(2023)

My heart was not in this one!
Those of us that are Hallmark fans and viewers appreciate a good story, decent acting, and likeable characters. Most of the movies fit the bill. But once in a while there is a movie that has a weak story, unlikeable leads, no chemistry, confusing plot points, and not much to like. This movie definitely falls into that category, and it didn't even have some lovely scenery to add to the story. The lead female had such odd facial expressions and way of speaking. She might want to consider a few more acting lessons. I have seen the male lead in other movies and quite liked him, but he missed the mark in this one. The last few minutes wrapped up several story lines, but left us wondering how all of that could happen in such a short time. All in all it was just a disappointing effort from Hallmark. This year has not been their best.

The Love Club
(2023)

If this is love....
The ads for this new 4 part series sounded like a good idea with 4 women supporting each other over the ups and downs of love and life. But the first episode was somewhat disappointing. The characters were likeable enough, and the idea of two pen pals finding each other was a cute idea, but there were too many instances where there was dishonesty, deception, and pretence. You have to wonder how any relationship could start like that and survive. The characters are all in their 30's but act like silly teenagers. I have enjoyed both Marcus and Brittany in other movies but this was definitely not their best effort. Perhaps the next one in the series will improve and show more maturity and realism.

Will Trent
(2023)

Great new series!!
This is just a wonderful new series. The first 2 episodes were riveting, with twists & turns and a story that draws you in. All of the characters are so interesting and multi-dimensional, and the acting is superb. The 2 main characters have a tragic back story and yet, they show us the strength of the human spirit and how one can not just move on, but succeed and help others. They have a strong bond with their shared history. It's also great to see a good new show on a regular network. Most of the highly touted shows are on various streaming services that some of us don't have. I am so looking forward to the next episodes in this moving and thought-provoking series with amazing performances by all of the actors involved.

Hanukkah on Rye
(2022)

You've Got Hanukkah
I loved this movie. Yes, it is yet another take on the "you've got mail" idea, but with the addition of a matchmaker and two meddling but caring extended families. The two leads were very appealing and their connection, both in person and in their letters, was fun to watch. I have also enjoyed the other movies this year with the Jewish faith and traditions shown, and in this one, the history of these families and how they came to their new country. The ending was just lovely, as the two families come together with much love and a shared experience. All in all, a great movie and will be one of my favourites of this season.

Three Wise Men and a Baby
(2022)

Wise & Wonderful
This lovely movie will definitely be one of the best of the new season of Christmas movies, and a favourite for many of us. And what a treat to have 3 of the most popular of the Hallmark leading men as the 3 brothers. This story is of brothers, almost estranged, looking after a baby and gradually finding out that they are better together. There are some very funny scenes interspersed with some touching moments as the men put aside their differences and realize what is truly important. Although romance was hinted at, this was not the main feature, which was a nice change from so many movies. All in all, this movie had so much to enjoy and appreciate. Loved it!

Curious Caterer: Dying for Chocolate
(2022)

A caterer, a cop, and a crime
This is yet another effort from Hallmark to create a mystery series based on a successful book series, and which shows little to no similarity. In the books Mike & Goldy are much older, and Goldy has an adult son. Her friend Marla is also older and not nearly as slim because she loves to sample Goldy's treats. Her ex-husband is a creep and an abuser. Of course, none of that is acceptable to the Hallmark style. So, putting all of that aside, viewers can just enjoy this story of two people that join forces to solve crimes and played by the very popular Nicki and Andrew. They do have some chemistry and the story is decent, so let's hope the 2nd one can be even better and reflect the good stories in the books.

The Presence of Love
(2022)

Love, Poetry, & New Beginnings
This was an absolutely beautiful movie and the best I have seen in some time. The acting was superb and the sweet little girl stole the show. The story of love, loss, and struggle is one that we can all identify with and the true emotions expressed came through so well. The attraction and connection between the two leads was real and not forced or silly as in many of the Hallmark movies. And the scenery of Cornwall was not only stunning, but also provided the metaphor of standing on a cliff trying to summon the courage to move away and move on. Having also lost a mother much too soon, the scene of Joss finally letting go near the end was just so very touching. I wish this movie had been longer. I did not want it to end. Let's have more movies like this with a wonderful story and strong characters that move us to tears and allow us to smile.

The Wedding Veil Legacy
(2022)

The Magic of the Veil
This was a cute idea for a trilogy with a magical wedding veil bringing love to it's owners. The first movie was pleasant enough, although Lacey Chabert is over used in the Hallmark movies. I loved the 2nd one with the always sweet Autumn Reeser.. But this third and last instalment was not quite as good as I had hoped. I like Alison and Victor and have enjoyed them in many of their other roles. And their connection seemed real enough. But the story was rather contrived with so many coincidences. We finally find out about the history of the veil but again, just not really believable. Everything was tied up in a neat bow. Still, it's an enjoyable series and I would like to see more trilogies, as you do get drawn into the interconnecting stories and the development of the characters and their relationships.

The Wedding Veil Unveiled
(2022)

Bella & Beautiful
This was such a sweet, romantic, and touching story of love, both past and present. Autumn, (one of my favourites) was perfect in this role. And Paolo was the icing on a wonderful Italian cake. The scenery of Italy and especially of Venice was just lovely to see and brought a few tears to my eyes. The Italian side of my family came from just north of this area. I wish I could have had one more trip back, but this movie helped transport me to this place in my heart. The story of the veil and all of it's history added to this beautiful movie.

Where Your Heart Belongs
(2022)

My heart did not belong to this movie
This was a disappointing effort and even the amazingly handsome, charming Christopher Russell could not save this one. Jen Lilley can act but why is she constantly given these roles of giggling, silly, insecure women. She was so rude and obnoxious to her best friend and pretty much everyone else in the movie. And a note to Hallmark production staff - hire a tree specialist! You cannot tap a cedar tree and if you could we would be awash with maple syrup here on Van. Island. Ours comes from Quebec. Sugar Maples grow in the East. Also, in many of the Christmas movies they had Douglas fir growing/sold in Eastern towns. This tree grows in the Pacific Northwest. And you cannot just walk through the woods and find a perfectly cultured tree. It takes years of clipping. How hard is it to get this information correct?? The ending was predictable and from reading the other reviews, most of us were quite happy when it was over.

Morning Show Mysteries: Murder Ever After
(2021)
Episode 6, Season 1

A welcome change to this series
I enjoyed the revamp of this series. There is no more restaurant and no more Rick Fox as the love interest, but the new format works quite well. The stories will now centre around Billie's role as a TV host. I am not sure about the co-host. Something doesn't quite work with him. Perhaps his character will be more developed in future episodes. I am not sure why the Aunt character is still included. She comes across as unnecessary and rather nosy. But seeing Sean Millington as the new detective and possible love interested is just great. Those of us that are BC fans remember watching Sean play for the BC Lions, win Grey Cups for us, and be an amazing player. He is a handsome, charming fellow and is very good in this role. I will look forward to some further additions to this series.

The Baker's Son
(2021)

Baguettes, Bakeries, & Beautiful Scenery
I enjoyed this movie, not for the acting, which was fine, or the story line which was somewhat predictable, but because it was filmed in the charming little town of Chemainus on Vancouver Island. The cafe is the Willow Street Cafe, and was not changed at all, or the Main Street, full of cute little shops. But what Chemainus is really known for are the spectacular murals on all of the buildings. They depict the history & growth of this area, so were not shown as it would not fit with a US town. It was nice to see Brent Daugherty as the male lead. I also liked him in Just for the Summer. But not so with the female lead. Just not very likeable and looked much older than the male lead. And that hairdo looked like it was cut with a chain saw. The townspeople were good, especially the mayor. The location saved this movie for me. And the bread!

Rutherford Falls: D'Angelos
(2021)
Episode 10, Season 1

Just one wonderful series!
I wasn't sure about this series. It took be about 5 episodes and then I was sold. The acting is superb, especially the Reagan character. I was not much of an Ed Helms fan before this, but he just got better and better with each episode. The last one had me in tears as he wrestles with who he is, where he goes next, and how to deal with being part of a family that had secrets. The diversity, history, First Nations issues, and how it was portrayed was very inspiring. I hope there will be a second season. How will Nathan carry on? How will Reagan deal with her cultural centre and romantic relationship? How will the town come to terms with all that is happening? It is representative of what many towns are dealing with. I look forward to seeing what happens next.

Rutherford Falls: Pilot
(2021)
Episode 1, Season 1

Shows promise but needs work!
The promos for this series made it sound like it might be a good addition to the new sit-coms coming out this spring. I have now watched the first two episodes and am not sure what to think. The first one (the pilot) was quite funny with interesting and quirky characters and some humorous scenes. But the second one was confusing and disjointed. I wasn't sure what was happening. I like the idea of including First Nations actors and providing another view of history, but it is almost like the producers and writers are trying too hard to give us a diverse mix of characters. I will keep watching for now, and hope that it gets better.

Ships in the Night: A Martha's Vineyard Mystery
(2020)

Strike 3!
In this third instalment of this mystery series I was really hoping it would improve. But sadly, it did not, and the acting was even more stilted and unrealistic. Jesse, as Jeff, is easy on the eyes but just does not do justice to the Jeff character of the wonderful Phillip Craig series. Sarah, as Zee, is just too superficial to lend any credence to the story. She is a doctor but did not spend one minute in a hospital. The chemistry (which sizzles in the books) is just not there at all between Jeff and Zee. And the great character of Joe Begay is not part of the movies. He would be a good addition and provide some diversity. The best part of the movie was the scenery, much of which I have seen in person. If you have not read the books you might enjoy this movie. For those of us that have, it is an insult to the characters and stories portrayed.

Picture Perfect Mysteries
(2019)

A disappointing effort in this series
I liked the first movie in this series. I was hopeful that this one would be as good. But it just wasn't. There were far too many characters. In a mystery part of the fun is try try and guess the culprit. Also, does Hallmark have to use the same secondary actors in every movie! I have seen every one of these folks in all of the Christmas and Winter movies in the past few weeks. And the main actors, despite being married in real life do not seem to translate their connection to the screen and show little attraction to each other. I did not make it through the entire movie and did not really care that I never did find out the murderer.This series needs major improvement if there are to be more produced.

A Beautiful Place to Die: A Martha's Vineyard Mystery
(2020)

Good, not great
The series by Phillip Craig was so wonderful and one of my favourite mystery series. When he passed away I knew there would be no more of J. W. and Zee's adventures. So, I was happy to see that a movie series would be made. Jesse Metcalfe makes a good Jeff, but the Zee character is unrecognizable. In the series Zee has long dark hair, is a very earthy & compassionate person, and is a nurse. For some odd reason, in the movie she is a blonde fashionista doctor. And her acting leaves much to be desired. She comes to a crime scene in high heels. Really? But I did enjoy the story and of course, the scenery. I live near where it was filmed and recognized some of the locations here in SouthW BC. I will watch the next one but really wish the movie reflected more of the books.

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