luvnalaja
Lifetime Total
10+
IMDb Member
3 years, 8 months
Reviews
Inventing the Christmas Prince (2022)
When opposites find common ground, they become kindred spirits, and love wins!
Tamera Mowry-Housley and Ronnie Rowe have always given stellar, believable performances with ease and class.
Tamera is one of my favorite actresses. She is real, super enjoyable to watch, credible, strong yet humble, super down to earth, warm, heartfelt, smart, and beautiful.
Ronnie is intense, but believable, engaging, and real as well. He has proven himself many times over in all of his roles.
What a unique plot within the gamut of Christmas movies! They kept me engaged and wanting to know what would come next. If you saw "all" the movie, you'd appreciate all its colors, themes, and perspectives.
There are many universal themes; we can all relate to the love of family, finding true love, grieve, shared values that make us closer, traditions, to fighting for your dreams, etc. However, the role of a professional who happens to be a single mom, and a widower is displayed in a very elegant and beautiful way. Also, and especially in today's world, the importance of having empathy is showcased successfully.
These universal themes, human experiences and values, and happy endings are the reason people look forward to see these movies every season, and year. However, unique story lines allow us to escape into other people's lifestyles and experiences. This movie had both familiarity and uniqueness, which is rare to achieve or see these days, along with a sparkle of Christmas fantasy.
It's a shame some people are so biased, they cannot bring themselves to rate films with minority leads or cast fairly, and they even dare to leave back handed compliments that do nothing, but show their biases very clearly.
Oh, and then there's the plain old haters who seem to leave an untrue or mean spirited comment, just to do damage. Not cool! We see you too, and that's wrong!
I invite open minded people, who see everyone as "human beings" first and foremost, to give themselves the opportunity to watch this and other hallmark movies with minority leads and cast, and rate them in a fair, objective, and unbiased way, as it should be.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done since 2020, which have shown classy, and culturally diverse stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Please have Tamera and Ronnie back in many more films! We need actors who portray real people, not fake-corny leads who have been done exhaustively, and no longer capture the times we live in.
Bravo to Hallmark for making a commitment to be a network that employs diverse casts, diverse stories, and champions inclusion! Please continue to do so always, and continue making beautiful movies! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves represented in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! Bravo!
#representationmatters.
Tamera is one of my favorite actresses. She is real, super enjoyable to watch, credible, strong yet humble, super down to earth, warm, heartfelt, smart, and beautiful.
Ronnie is intense, but believable, engaging, and real as well. He has proven himself many times over in all of his roles.
What a unique plot within the gamut of Christmas movies! They kept me engaged and wanting to know what would come next. If you saw "all" the movie, you'd appreciate all its colors, themes, and perspectives.
There are many universal themes; we can all relate to the love of family, finding true love, grieve, shared values that make us closer, traditions, to fighting for your dreams, etc. However, the role of a professional who happens to be a single mom, and a widower is displayed in a very elegant and beautiful way. Also, and especially in today's world, the importance of having empathy is showcased successfully.
These universal themes, human experiences and values, and happy endings are the reason people look forward to see these movies every season, and year. However, unique story lines allow us to escape into other people's lifestyles and experiences. This movie had both familiarity and uniqueness, which is rare to achieve or see these days, along with a sparkle of Christmas fantasy.
It's a shame some people are so biased, they cannot bring themselves to rate films with minority leads or cast fairly, and they even dare to leave back handed compliments that do nothing, but show their biases very clearly.
Oh, and then there's the plain old haters who seem to leave an untrue or mean spirited comment, just to do damage. Not cool! We see you too, and that's wrong!
I invite open minded people, who see everyone as "human beings" first and foremost, to give themselves the opportunity to watch this and other hallmark movies with minority leads and cast, and rate them in a fair, objective, and unbiased way, as it should be.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done since 2020, which have shown classy, and culturally diverse stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Please have Tamera and Ronnie back in many more films! We need actors who portray real people, not fake-corny leads who have been done exhaustively, and no longer capture the times we live in.
Bravo to Hallmark for making a commitment to be a network that employs diverse casts, diverse stories, and champions inclusion! Please continue to do so always, and continue making beautiful movies! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves represented in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! Bravo!
#representationmatters.
A Winter Getaway (2021)
A unique story that proves that kindred spirits attract one another, and what's meant to be it'll be, regardless of life's challenges or one's insecurities.
Nazneen Contractor and Brooks Darnell
have always given stellar, believable performances with ease and class.
Their connection is effortless in this movie!
Brooks is so likable and enjoyable to watch as an honest to goodness, trustworthy, cool, but humble, and sweet male lead.
Nazneen conveys a gorgeous inner strength, but yet so much warmth and realness to her character.
What a refreshingly unique plot, with unexpected outcomes (compared to what we're used to in many other Hallmark classics). They kept me engaged and wanting to know what would come next. It was beautifully shot, with stunning landscapes that made me feel I was vacationing along with them. Yes, loud music in the end, but can't pick apart an entire good movie for a small mistake.
However, don't expect to have the same type of experience if you stop a movie a hundred times.
If you didn't even gave it all your attention, please don't post a public review as it is not fair to the movie nor to all who worked in it.
There are still some universal themes; we can all relate to the love of family, finding true love, shared values that make us closer, to fighting for your dreams, etc.
These universal themes, human experiences and values, and happy endings are the reason people look forward to see these movies every season, and year. However, unique story lines allow us to escape into other people's lifestyles and experiences. This movie had both familiarity and uniqueness, which is rare to achieve or see these days.
It's a shame some people are so biased, they cannot bring themselves to rate films with minority leads or cast fairly, and they even dare to leave back handed compliments that do nothing, but show their biases very clearly.
You liked it, it surprised you, it's a good movie, but you still rate it low? Hmmm. Oh, and then there's the plain old haters who seem to leave an untrue or mean spirited comment, just to do damage. Not cool! We see you too, and that's wrong!
I invite open minded people, who see everyone as "human beings" first and foremost, to give themselves the opportunity to watch this and other hallmark movies with minority leads and cast, and rate them in a fair, objective, and unbiased way, as it should be.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done since 2020, which have shown classy, and culturally diverse stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Please have Brooks and Nazneen back in many more films!
Bravo to Hallmark for making a commitment to be a network that employs diverse casts and champions inclusion! Please continue to do so always, and continue making beautiful movies! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves represented in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! Bravo!
Their connection is effortless in this movie!
Brooks is so likable and enjoyable to watch as an honest to goodness, trustworthy, cool, but humble, and sweet male lead.
Nazneen conveys a gorgeous inner strength, but yet so much warmth and realness to her character.
What a refreshingly unique plot, with unexpected outcomes (compared to what we're used to in many other Hallmark classics). They kept me engaged and wanting to know what would come next. It was beautifully shot, with stunning landscapes that made me feel I was vacationing along with them. Yes, loud music in the end, but can't pick apart an entire good movie for a small mistake.
However, don't expect to have the same type of experience if you stop a movie a hundred times.
If you didn't even gave it all your attention, please don't post a public review as it is not fair to the movie nor to all who worked in it.
There are still some universal themes; we can all relate to the love of family, finding true love, shared values that make us closer, to fighting for your dreams, etc.
These universal themes, human experiences and values, and happy endings are the reason people look forward to see these movies every season, and year. However, unique story lines allow us to escape into other people's lifestyles and experiences. This movie had both familiarity and uniqueness, which is rare to achieve or see these days.
It's a shame some people are so biased, they cannot bring themselves to rate films with minority leads or cast fairly, and they even dare to leave back handed compliments that do nothing, but show their biases very clearly.
You liked it, it surprised you, it's a good movie, but you still rate it low? Hmmm. Oh, and then there's the plain old haters who seem to leave an untrue or mean spirited comment, just to do damage. Not cool! We see you too, and that's wrong!
I invite open minded people, who see everyone as "human beings" first and foremost, to give themselves the opportunity to watch this and other hallmark movies with minority leads and cast, and rate them in a fair, objective, and unbiased way, as it should be.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done since 2020, which have shown classy, and culturally diverse stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Please have Brooks and Nazneen back in many more films!
Bravo to Hallmark for making a commitment to be a network that employs diverse casts and champions inclusion! Please continue to do so always, and continue making beautiful movies! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves represented in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! Bravo!
Advice to Love By (2021)
A beautiful story about how preconceived and data controlled notions of love pale in comparison to real chemistry, a real love connection, and fate.
This is a good movie, that would have been great with a few adjustments, like a stronger ending.
However, Erinn Westbrook and and Brooks Darnell did a beautiful job in relaying a classy, honest, and charming relationship between young professionals struggling between the analytical and the emotional while falling in love. They had a very sweet onscreen chemistry.
For those complaining about the plot, Hallmark has made a living off of repeating story lines, usually putting actors in rolls with similar themes way too often at this point, and you've been supporting them for years!
They're called universal themes for a reason, many can relate as it happens to almost everyone in "different ways".
Why can't they do another familiar story line with a twist (both writers writing about their own love connection)?
While this movie has a familiar concept, the story itself is authentic, heartfelt, and beautiful. Not all personalities are the same. So while some missed the usual longing stares, I appreciated the smart conversations with substance, as someone who finds intellect attractive.
These universal themes, human experiences and values, and happy endings are the reason people look forward to see these movies every season, and year. This movie was cute and enjoyable. More so that many others I've seen.
It's a shame some people are so biased, they cannot bring themselves to rate films with minority leads or cast fairly, and they even dare to leave back handed compliments that do nothing, but show their biases very clearly.
You liked it, it surprised you, it's a good movie, but you still rate it low? Hmmm. Oh, and then there's the plain old haters who seem to leave an untrue or mean spirited comment, just to do damage. Not cool! We see you too, and that's wrong!
I invite open minded people, who see everyone as "human beings" first and foremost, to give themselves the opportunity to watch this and other hallmark movies with minority leads and cast, and rate them in a fair, objective, and unbiased way, as it should be.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done since 2020, which have shown classy, and culturally diverse stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Please have Erinn and Brooks as leads in many more films!
Bravo to Hallmark for making a commitment to be a network that employs diverse casts and champions inclusion! Please continue to do so always, and continue making beautiful movies! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves represented in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! Bravo!
However, Erinn Westbrook and and Brooks Darnell did a beautiful job in relaying a classy, honest, and charming relationship between young professionals struggling between the analytical and the emotional while falling in love. They had a very sweet onscreen chemistry.
For those complaining about the plot, Hallmark has made a living off of repeating story lines, usually putting actors in rolls with similar themes way too often at this point, and you've been supporting them for years!
They're called universal themes for a reason, many can relate as it happens to almost everyone in "different ways".
Why can't they do another familiar story line with a twist (both writers writing about their own love connection)?
While this movie has a familiar concept, the story itself is authentic, heartfelt, and beautiful. Not all personalities are the same. So while some missed the usual longing stares, I appreciated the smart conversations with substance, as someone who finds intellect attractive.
These universal themes, human experiences and values, and happy endings are the reason people look forward to see these movies every season, and year. This movie was cute and enjoyable. More so that many others I've seen.
It's a shame some people are so biased, they cannot bring themselves to rate films with minority leads or cast fairly, and they even dare to leave back handed compliments that do nothing, but show their biases very clearly.
You liked it, it surprised you, it's a good movie, but you still rate it low? Hmmm. Oh, and then there's the plain old haters who seem to leave an untrue or mean spirited comment, just to do damage. Not cool! We see you too, and that's wrong!
I invite open minded people, who see everyone as "human beings" first and foremost, to give themselves the opportunity to watch this and other hallmark movies with minority leads and cast, and rate them in a fair, objective, and unbiased way, as it should be.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done since 2020, which have shown classy, and culturally diverse stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Please have Erinn and Brooks as leads in many more films!
Bravo to Hallmark for making a commitment to be a network that employs diverse casts and champions inclusion! Please continue to do so always, and continue making beautiful movies! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves represented in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! Bravo!
Fashionably Yours (2020)
A sultry love story that shows how love changes the course of our lives, gives it meaning, and gives us courage to fight for our dreams!
Kendrick Sampson and Kay Graham are flawless in this movie! Kendrick is so natural, has such a cool, calm, and collected vibe which makes the viewer hang on to every word he says. He's honest and believable, and that is so rare in TV actors. Kay is sharp, but real and relatable, and together they have great chemistry in this sultry, romantic, classy, and classic story.
What a refreshingly unique plot, with unexpected outcomes (compared to what we're used to in many other Hallmark classics). They kept me engaged and wanting to know what would come next.
There are still some universal themes; we can all relate to the love of family, to holding on to true love, to fighting for your dreams, and to practicing values such as service to others, balancing love and career, etc.
These universal themes, human experiences and values, and happy endings are the reason people look forward to see these movies every season, and year. This movie was cute and enjoyable, more so that many others I've seen.
It's a shame some people are so biased, they cannot bring themselves to rate films with minority leads or cast fairly, and they even dare to leave back handed compliments that do nothing, but show their biases very clearly.
You liked it, it surprised you, it's a good movie, but you still rate it low? Hmmm. Oh, and then there's the plain old haters who seem to leave an untrue or mean spirited comment, just to do damage. Not cool! We see you too, and that's wrong!
I invite open minded people, who see everyone as "human beings" first and foremost, to give themselves the opportunity to watch this and other hallmark movies with minority leads and cast, and rate them in a fair, objective, and unbiased way, as it should be.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done since 2020, which have shown classy, and culturally diverse stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Please have Kendrick and Kay in many more films!
Bravo to Hallmark for making a commitment to be a network that employs diverse casts and champions inclusion! Please continue to do so always, and continue making beautiful movies! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves represented in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! Bravo!
What a refreshingly unique plot, with unexpected outcomes (compared to what we're used to in many other Hallmark classics). They kept me engaged and wanting to know what would come next.
There are still some universal themes; we can all relate to the love of family, to holding on to true love, to fighting for your dreams, and to practicing values such as service to others, balancing love and career, etc.
These universal themes, human experiences and values, and happy endings are the reason people look forward to see these movies every season, and year. This movie was cute and enjoyable, more so that many others I've seen.
It's a shame some people are so biased, they cannot bring themselves to rate films with minority leads or cast fairly, and they even dare to leave back handed compliments that do nothing, but show their biases very clearly.
You liked it, it surprised you, it's a good movie, but you still rate it low? Hmmm. Oh, and then there's the plain old haters who seem to leave an untrue or mean spirited comment, just to do damage. Not cool! We see you too, and that's wrong!
I invite open minded people, who see everyone as "human beings" first and foremost, to give themselves the opportunity to watch this and other hallmark movies with minority leads and cast, and rate them in a fair, objective, and unbiased way, as it should be.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done since 2020, which have shown classy, and culturally diverse stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Please have Kendrick and Kay in many more films!
Bravo to Hallmark for making a commitment to be a network that employs diverse casts and champions inclusion! Please continue to do so always, and continue making beautiful movies! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves represented in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! Bravo!
A Christmas Mission (2020)
A beautiful story about the impact of military service, and loss in families, childhood romance, and traditions.
This is a good movie, that would have been great with a few adjustments and a better written ending. Mary Antonini did a beautiful job in her day view and I hope is the start of a great career. Michael Xavier is always charming, believable, and committed to his roles. They had great onscreen chemistry.
Not every Christmas story is the same, because everyone has a different heritage, with different traditions, and people in the U. S. (or Canada) come from different countries. While this movie has a familiar story line, the story itself is authentic, heartfelt, and beautiful!
For those complaining about the plot, Hallmark has made a living off of repeating story lines, usually putting actors in rolls with similar themes way too often at this point, and you've been supporting them for years!
Why can't Lifetime do a familiar story line with a twist? They're called universal themes for a reason, many can relate as it happens to almost everyone in "different ways".
We can all relate to the love of family, to holding on to true love, to how losing a loved one changes our lives, to cherishing traditions, and to practicing values such as service to others, the importance of the arts in human development and life, etc.
We also get to see the impact of military service in families, which only certain people understand, so is nice to get insight into this heartbreaking reality that families who serve go through.
These universal themes, human experiences and values, and happy endings are the reason people look forward to see these movies every year. This movie was cute and enjoyable!
I invite open minded people, who see everyone as "human beings" first and foremost, to give themselves the opportunity to watch this and other lifetime movies (especially those with minority leads and cast), and rate them in a fair, objective, and unbiased way, as it should be.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done since (especially in the 2021-22 holiday season), which have shown classy, and culturally diverse stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Bravo to Lifetime for making a commitment to be a network that employs diverse casts and champions inclusion! Please continue to do so always, and continue making beautiful movies! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves represented in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! Bravo!
P. S.
This gem was listed under 2 names in 2021: First Lifetime showed it as: "A Christmas Mission".
Then Peacock streamed it as: "You Make It Feel Like Christmas".
Enjoy!
Not every Christmas story is the same, because everyone has a different heritage, with different traditions, and people in the U. S. (or Canada) come from different countries. While this movie has a familiar story line, the story itself is authentic, heartfelt, and beautiful!
For those complaining about the plot, Hallmark has made a living off of repeating story lines, usually putting actors in rolls with similar themes way too often at this point, and you've been supporting them for years!
Why can't Lifetime do a familiar story line with a twist? They're called universal themes for a reason, many can relate as it happens to almost everyone in "different ways".
We can all relate to the love of family, to holding on to true love, to how losing a loved one changes our lives, to cherishing traditions, and to practicing values such as service to others, the importance of the arts in human development and life, etc.
We also get to see the impact of military service in families, which only certain people understand, so is nice to get insight into this heartbreaking reality that families who serve go through.
These universal themes, human experiences and values, and happy endings are the reason people look forward to see these movies every year. This movie was cute and enjoyable!
I invite open minded people, who see everyone as "human beings" first and foremost, to give themselves the opportunity to watch this and other lifetime movies (especially those with minority leads and cast), and rate them in a fair, objective, and unbiased way, as it should be.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done since (especially in the 2021-22 holiday season), which have shown classy, and culturally diverse stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Bravo to Lifetime for making a commitment to be a network that employs diverse casts and champions inclusion! Please continue to do so always, and continue making beautiful movies! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves represented in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! Bravo!
P. S.
This gem was listed under 2 names in 2021: First Lifetime showed it as: "A Christmas Mission".
Then Peacock streamed it as: "You Make It Feel Like Christmas".
Enjoy!
The Christmas Aunt (2020)
A familiar story line with a twist, and a heartfelt story about what's important; love!
I was excited to see Keshia Knight Pulliam acting as an adult, and boy she did not disappoint. Her excitement is contagious!
I was also happy to see Jarod Joseph after the awesome job he did in "The 100" series.
Not every Christmas story is the same, because everyone has a different heritage, with different traditions, and people in the U. S. come from different countries. While this movie has a familiar story line, the story itself is authentic, heartfelt, and beautiful!
For those complaining about the plot, Hallmark has made a living off of repeating story lines, usually putting actors in rolls with similar themes way too often at this point, and you've been supporting them for years!
Why can't Lifetime do a familiar story line with a twist? They're called universal themes for a reason, many can relate as it happens to almost everyone in "different ways".
We can all relate to the love of family, to holding on to true love, to cherishing traditions, and to practicing values such as service to others, the importance of the arts in human development and life, nurturing children's hearts and imagination, honoring our elders right to be happy, uniting toward the common good, etc.
Why not applaud them for being authentic when they do produce a beautiful story like this one, instead of looking for silly things to criticize?
What matters is that they represent real people, real stories, and reality regardless of how much some would like to deny it or criticize it.
I invite open minded people, who see everyone as "human beings" first and foremost, to give themselves the opportunity to watch this and other lifetime movies (especially those with minority leads and cast), and rate them in a fair, objective, and unbiased way, as it should be.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done this 2021 -22 holiday season, which have shown classy, and culturally diverse stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Bravo to Lifetime for making a commitment to be a network that employs diverse casts and champions inclusion! Please continue to do so always, and continue making beautiful movies! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves represented in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! Bravo!
πππ
I was also happy to see Jarod Joseph after the awesome job he did in "The 100" series.
Not every Christmas story is the same, because everyone has a different heritage, with different traditions, and people in the U. S. come from different countries. While this movie has a familiar story line, the story itself is authentic, heartfelt, and beautiful!
For those complaining about the plot, Hallmark has made a living off of repeating story lines, usually putting actors in rolls with similar themes way too often at this point, and you've been supporting them for years!
Why can't Lifetime do a familiar story line with a twist? They're called universal themes for a reason, many can relate as it happens to almost everyone in "different ways".
We can all relate to the love of family, to holding on to true love, to cherishing traditions, and to practicing values such as service to others, the importance of the arts in human development and life, nurturing children's hearts and imagination, honoring our elders right to be happy, uniting toward the common good, etc.
Why not applaud them for being authentic when they do produce a beautiful story like this one, instead of looking for silly things to criticize?
What matters is that they represent real people, real stories, and reality regardless of how much some would like to deny it or criticize it.
I invite open minded people, who see everyone as "human beings" first and foremost, to give themselves the opportunity to watch this and other lifetime movies (especially those with minority leads and cast), and rate them in a fair, objective, and unbiased way, as it should be.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done this 2021 -22 holiday season, which have shown classy, and culturally diverse stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Bravo to Lifetime for making a commitment to be a network that employs diverse casts and champions inclusion! Please continue to do so always, and continue making beautiful movies! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves represented in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! Bravo!
πππ
Candy Cane Candidate (2021)
A beautiful story about working for the common good, and a reignited romance between high school friends.
I was excited to see Jacky Lai (A Sugar & Spice Holiday) and Jake Epstein (Eight Gifts of Hanukkah) in another Christmas movie. I really enjoyed their work and their kind spirits.
It is sad to see the bias in some of the petty reviews, usually posted by people who are intolerant of minority stories, (LGBTQ stories), and minorities in lead roles.
The character of Julia does not have fond memories of Parker who used to be her debate rival in high school and teased her constantly, and who was also her first crush whom she felt rejected by. That clearly explains her animosity and skepticism towards Jake in the beginning of the story.
For those complaining about the plot, Hallmark has also made an effort to embrace diversity and inclusion in their new movies. This has nothing to do with political agendas, and everything to do with human decency, respect, kindness, and love toward everyone regardless of our differences.
Businesses have to adapt to the times, and after all the gains we've done in our society to be more accepting and inclusive of others, networks couldn't possibly continue to operate with old views and "prejudiced" practices that many "people" (not parties) have worked so hard to overcome and change.
Also, after Covid, many businesses have had to rethink their focus to survive and thrive, and maybe that's why we see GAC Family and Lifetime positioning themselves as contenders in the Christmas movie market that was previously dominated by Hallmark. That doesn't mean they'll still do projects exclusively for women as a target audience, but they have to diversify to thrive.
Hallmark has made a living off of repeating story lines, usually putting actors in rolls with similar themes way too often at this point, and you've been supporting them for years!
Why can't Lifetime do a familiar story line with a twist? They're called universal themes for a reason, many can relate as it happens to almost everyone in different ways.
Why not applaud them for being original when they do produce a unique story like this one, instead of looking for a hidden agenda? The movie was about politics and an election, but it was not about political ideologies. It was about working for the common good, and a reignited romance between high school friends. All the romantic scenes were done in a very tasteful way as well.
The ethnicity or sexual orientation of the main and supporting characters should not matter. What matters is that they represent real people, real stories, and reality regardless of how much some would like to deny it. Also, regardless of the biases and prejudices of some, which have nothing to do with politics and everything to do with their humanity or lack thereof.
I invite open minded people, who see everyone as "human beings" first and foremost, to give themselves the opportunity to watch this and other lifetime movies (especially those with minority leads and cast), and rate them in a fair, objective, and unbiased way, as it should be.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done this 2021 -22 holiday season, which have shown classy, and culturally diverse stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Bravo to Lifetime for making a commitment to be a network that employs diverse casts and champions inclusion! Please continue to do so always, and continue making beautiful movies! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves represented in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! Bravo!
πππ
It is sad to see the bias in some of the petty reviews, usually posted by people who are intolerant of minority stories, (LGBTQ stories), and minorities in lead roles.
The character of Julia does not have fond memories of Parker who used to be her debate rival in high school and teased her constantly, and who was also her first crush whom she felt rejected by. That clearly explains her animosity and skepticism towards Jake in the beginning of the story.
For those complaining about the plot, Hallmark has also made an effort to embrace diversity and inclusion in their new movies. This has nothing to do with political agendas, and everything to do with human decency, respect, kindness, and love toward everyone regardless of our differences.
Businesses have to adapt to the times, and after all the gains we've done in our society to be more accepting and inclusive of others, networks couldn't possibly continue to operate with old views and "prejudiced" practices that many "people" (not parties) have worked so hard to overcome and change.
Also, after Covid, many businesses have had to rethink their focus to survive and thrive, and maybe that's why we see GAC Family and Lifetime positioning themselves as contenders in the Christmas movie market that was previously dominated by Hallmark. That doesn't mean they'll still do projects exclusively for women as a target audience, but they have to diversify to thrive.
Hallmark has made a living off of repeating story lines, usually putting actors in rolls with similar themes way too often at this point, and you've been supporting them for years!
Why can't Lifetime do a familiar story line with a twist? They're called universal themes for a reason, many can relate as it happens to almost everyone in different ways.
Why not applaud them for being original when they do produce a unique story like this one, instead of looking for a hidden agenda? The movie was about politics and an election, but it was not about political ideologies. It was about working for the common good, and a reignited romance between high school friends. All the romantic scenes were done in a very tasteful way as well.
The ethnicity or sexual orientation of the main and supporting characters should not matter. What matters is that they represent real people, real stories, and reality regardless of how much some would like to deny it. Also, regardless of the biases and prejudices of some, which have nothing to do with politics and everything to do with their humanity or lack thereof.
I invite open minded people, who see everyone as "human beings" first and foremost, to give themselves the opportunity to watch this and other lifetime movies (especially those with minority leads and cast), and rate them in a fair, objective, and unbiased way, as it should be.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done this 2021 -22 holiday season, which have shown classy, and culturally diverse stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Bravo to Lifetime for making a commitment to be a network that employs diverse casts and champions inclusion! Please continue to do so always, and continue making beautiful movies! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves represented in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! Bravo!
πππ
Saying Yes to Christmas (2021)
Not every Christmas experience is the same; this story is culturally unique, and beautiful!
Not every Christmas story is the same, because everyone has a different heritage, with different traditions, and people in the U. S. come from different countries. While this movie has a familiar story line of a woman who works in a publishing company and finds her own voice, this story is culturally unique, heartfelt, and beautiful!
It showcases asian culture and traditions (which I haven't seen before in TV Christmas movies in the states), but it also shows Asian and African American values like: love of family, pursuing a higher education, striving to be successful, continuity of traditions, service to others, the importance of creating community, etc.
It also shows young people the importance of knowing your value, standing up for yourself and your beliefs, not compromising your happiness for material things, that success is preparation meeting opportunity, and that taking risks in the pursuit of success and happiness pays off when you balance your heart and your mind.
It is sad to see the bias in some of the reviews, usually from people who are intolerant of minority stories, and minorities in lead roles.
For those complaining about the plot, Hallmark has made a living off of repeating story lines, usually putting actors in rolls with similar themes way too often at this point, and you've been supporting them for years!
Why can't Lifetime do a familiar story line with a twist? They're called universal themes for a reason, many can relate as it happens to almost everyone in different ways.
I invite open minded people, who see everyone as "human beings" first and foremost, to give themselves the opportunity to watch this and other lifetime movies (especially those with minority leads and cast), and rate them in a fair, objective, and unbiased way, as it should be.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done this 2021 -22 holiday season, which have shown classy, and culturally diverse stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Bravo to Lifetime for making a commitment to be a network that employs a diverse casts and champions inclusion! Please continue to do so always, and continue making beautiful movies! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves represented in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! Bravo!
πππ
P. S. My only negative mark: The actress that played a Puerto Rican writer did not speak Spanish with a proper pronunciation, and unfortunately she botched "Misa de Gallo" (Mass of the Rooster or Midnight Mass) as Semilla de Gallo (Seed of the Rooster).
I appreciate the effort to talk about different cultures. However, if you're talking about the traditions of Puerto Rico (for example), shouldn't you at least hire an actress who speaks fluent Spanish and has an accurate native "Puerto Rican" accent? There are plenty of amazingly talented actors on the island that would love the opportunity.
I do appreciate seeing my culture in a Christmas movie in the U. S. immensely, even if it was for three minutes, and hope to see an entire movie about Puerto Rican Christmases in the future!
Thank you!
It showcases asian culture and traditions (which I haven't seen before in TV Christmas movies in the states), but it also shows Asian and African American values like: love of family, pursuing a higher education, striving to be successful, continuity of traditions, service to others, the importance of creating community, etc.
It also shows young people the importance of knowing your value, standing up for yourself and your beliefs, not compromising your happiness for material things, that success is preparation meeting opportunity, and that taking risks in the pursuit of success and happiness pays off when you balance your heart and your mind.
It is sad to see the bias in some of the reviews, usually from people who are intolerant of minority stories, and minorities in lead roles.
For those complaining about the plot, Hallmark has made a living off of repeating story lines, usually putting actors in rolls with similar themes way too often at this point, and you've been supporting them for years!
Why can't Lifetime do a familiar story line with a twist? They're called universal themes for a reason, many can relate as it happens to almost everyone in different ways.
I invite open minded people, who see everyone as "human beings" first and foremost, to give themselves the opportunity to watch this and other lifetime movies (especially those with minority leads and cast), and rate them in a fair, objective, and unbiased way, as it should be.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done this 2021 -22 holiday season, which have shown classy, and culturally diverse stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Bravo to Lifetime for making a commitment to be a network that employs a diverse casts and champions inclusion! Please continue to do so always, and continue making beautiful movies! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves represented in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! Bravo!
πππ
P. S. My only negative mark: The actress that played a Puerto Rican writer did not speak Spanish with a proper pronunciation, and unfortunately she botched "Misa de Gallo" (Mass of the Rooster or Midnight Mass) as Semilla de Gallo (Seed of the Rooster).
I appreciate the effort to talk about different cultures. However, if you're talking about the traditions of Puerto Rico (for example), shouldn't you at least hire an actress who speaks fluent Spanish and has an accurate native "Puerto Rican" accent? There are plenty of amazingly talented actors on the island that would love the opportunity.
I do appreciate seeing my culture in a Christmas movie in the U. S. immensely, even if it was for three minutes, and hope to see an entire movie about Puerto Rican Christmases in the future!
Thank you!
Holiday in Santa Fe (2021)
A beautiful and culturally inclusive Christmas movie!
Not every movie with minorities needs to be an encyclopedia edition of a specific culture.
It's funny how some of the people who complain don't even share Hispanic or Latin heritage and let their bias show.
Bravo to Lifetime for making a commitment to be a network that employs a diverse casts and champions inclusion! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! πππ
This story not only resonated with me because of the culture but, after losing my mother four years ago, I appreciated the honest and beautiful way in which the family's (especially the daughter's) grief was shown. I also appreciate the way important values in our Hispanic/Latin culture like the importance of family, kindness and service to others, hard work, honesty, amongst others are displayed throughout the story. It even had room to show us to believe in ourselves and our talents.
Mario LΓ³pez is very natural and believable, and after watching her in Lucifer, I was thrilled to see Aimee GarcΓa in such an amazing role, and EfraΓn Figueroa reminded me of my Dad, (navigating life as a widower while still loving his family, and his family loving and supporting him).
For those complaining about the plot, Hallmark makes a living of repeating story lines, usually putting actors in rolls with similar themes, and you've been supporting them for years!
Why can't Lifetime do a familiar story line with a twist? Their called universal themes for a reason, many can relate, and it happens to almost everyone in different ways.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done this season, which show classy, and culturally inclusive stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Please continue to make beautiful movies and to be a network that celebrates diversity Lifetime!
BRAVO! πππππ
It's funny how some of the people who complain don't even share Hispanic or Latin heritage and let their bias show.
Bravo to Lifetime for making a commitment to be a network that employs a diverse casts and champions inclusion! Lord knows our nation needs to see our stories, our children need to see themselves in people who look like them, and our actors need the platform and the opportunities.
I celebrate and support them all! πππ
This story not only resonated with me because of the culture but, after losing my mother four years ago, I appreciated the honest and beautiful way in which the family's (especially the daughter's) grief was shown. I also appreciate the way important values in our Hispanic/Latin culture like the importance of family, kindness and service to others, hard work, honesty, amongst others are displayed throughout the story. It even had room to show us to believe in ourselves and our talents.
Mario LΓ³pez is very natural and believable, and after watching her in Lucifer, I was thrilled to see Aimee GarcΓa in such an amazing role, and EfraΓn Figueroa reminded me of my Dad, (navigating life as a widower while still loving his family, and his family loving and supporting him).
For those complaining about the plot, Hallmark makes a living of repeating story lines, usually putting actors in rolls with similar themes, and you've been supporting them for years!
Why can't Lifetime do a familiar story line with a twist? Their called universal themes for a reason, many can relate, and it happens to almost everyone in different ways.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done this season, which show classy, and culturally inclusive stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
Please continue to make beautiful movies and to be a network that celebrates diversity Lifetime!
BRAVO! πππππ
A Christmas Dance Reunion (2021)
HSM Alums don't disappoint in grown up, but wholesome romance, with a dance twist!
Corbin Bleu and Monique Coleman are delightful in this nostalgic story about a young love, soulmates who find each other through dance, and their childhood Christmas vacations.
When closing the family inn means they could lose their connection to each other, and other children will miss having the Christmas of their lifetime, they're inspired to fight to keep it all alive.
The generation that grew with these two actors in High School Musical will be thrilled to see them as grown ups, but with the same wholesome and magical story. Adult love does not need to be overly forward or sexualized. If Hallmark does classy love successfully, why not Lifetime.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done this season, which show classy, and culturally inclusive stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
AND - Can we talk about those dance numbers?
Sooo awesome! Just a handful of modern TV Christmas movies are so artsy, do it right, and this one got it perfectly.
Please continue to make beautiful movies and to be a network that celebrates diversity Lifetime!
BRAVO! πππππ P. S. Broadway and Hollywood need to book Corbin and Monique more often and ASAP!β¨πβ¨
When closing the family inn means they could lose their connection to each other, and other children will miss having the Christmas of their lifetime, they're inspired to fight to keep it all alive.
The generation that grew with these two actors in High School Musical will be thrilled to see them as grown ups, but with the same wholesome and magical story. Adult love does not need to be overly forward or sexualized. If Hallmark does classy love successfully, why not Lifetime.
I'm very pleased with this beautiful movie, and others done this season, which show classy, and culturally inclusive stories that celebrate family and love in all its forms.
AND - Can we talk about those dance numbers?
Sooo awesome! Just a handful of modern TV Christmas movies are so artsy, do it right, and this one got it perfectly.
Please continue to make beautiful movies and to be a network that celebrates diversity Lifetime!
BRAVO! πππππ P. S. Broadway and Hollywood need to book Corbin and Monique more often and ASAP!β¨πβ¨
South Beach Love (2021)
What a beautiful and culturally authentic story!
This movie is very authentic to the culture, living in Miami, to the Hispanic values of family, hard work, kindness, service to others, unconditional love, gratitude, hospitality, celebrating life, etc. Even if you didn't grow up in a Hispanic household, you can feel the love between families, how relatable the characters are, and the universal themes presented in the movie. This movie is a window into a different culture, and a great way to escape without living your home.
Having an accent means that you know different languages, and in a nation of immigrants, where most people value diversity it is beautiful to show acceptance for everyone. It is also beautiful to show different stories, with people from different backgrounds, because representation is important, and inclusivity makes our lives, and our country richer and stronger as we gain more knowledge, understanding, and empathy for others.
Our differences make us unique and beautiful!
If everyone was the same, it would be very boring.
I hope people learn to be appreciative of the uniqueness of others, and that they open their hearts and their minds to see the beauty in that as a first instinct and reaction, instead of being ready to criticize just because it's different from what they're used to.
I've become a Hallmark fan in the last few years, and I enjoyed this story as much or more than many other movies I've seen. Love conquers all!
My hope is that the percentage of minority inspired stories and leads in Hallmark movies increases to a comparable ratio to Caucasian lead and focused stories. There are many talented actors and actresses of color that would be amazing leads in any story, but especially stories that showcase different cultures and lifestyles.
Thank you Hallmark for what you already do to ensure representation and inclusivity, congrats on a beautiful movie, and here's hoping for many more!
Having an accent means that you know different languages, and in a nation of immigrants, where most people value diversity it is beautiful to show acceptance for everyone. It is also beautiful to show different stories, with people from different backgrounds, because representation is important, and inclusivity makes our lives, and our country richer and stronger as we gain more knowledge, understanding, and empathy for others.
Our differences make us unique and beautiful!
If everyone was the same, it would be very boring.
I hope people learn to be appreciative of the uniqueness of others, and that they open their hearts and their minds to see the beauty in that as a first instinct and reaction, instead of being ready to criticize just because it's different from what they're used to.
I've become a Hallmark fan in the last few years, and I enjoyed this story as much or more than many other movies I've seen. Love conquers all!
My hope is that the percentage of minority inspired stories and leads in Hallmark movies increases to a comparable ratio to Caucasian lead and focused stories. There are many talented actors and actresses of color that would be amazing leads in any story, but especially stories that showcase different cultures and lifestyles.
Thank you Hallmark for what you already do to ensure representation and inclusivity, congrats on a beautiful movie, and here's hoping for many more!