A Fabulous Character Driven Movie - Elsewhere, 5 Stars

 

The Storyline – What "Elsewhere" is About 

"Elsewhere" is a touching and thoughtful film about Bruno (Aden Young), a man devastated by the sudden loss of his wife. 

As he struggles to come to terms with her passing, he faces an unexpected dilemma—his late wife's family is trying to force him out of the beautiful home they once shared.

Desperate to hold on to the place that holds so many memories, Bruno concocts a plan to secretly stay in the house. While doing so, he navigates life's hardships, meets new people, and redefines what it means to move forward when it feels like everything is slipping away.

The plot is driven by Bruno's internal battles, and you find yourself rooting for him as he wrestles with grief and the inevitable changes that follow. 

It's heartfelt and emotional and keeps you invested in his journey.

The Excellent Cast  

The performances in "Elsewhere" really make the story shine. 

Aden Young brings a quiet intensity to Bruno, portraying a man who is both deeply wounded by his loss and stubbornly holding on to hope. 

Parker Posey plays Marie, a quirky and energetic woman who befriends Bruno, offering a refreshing contrast to his solemn demeanor. Their chemistry feels natural and believable, adding a layer of warmth to the story. 

Ken Jeong, known for his comedic roles, steps into a more serious character here, and he does it convincingly. His role adds some much-needed lightness without taking away from the movie's emotional depth. 

Beau Bridges and Jacki Weaver play supporting roles that add complexity to the story, each bringing emotional weight to the film. 

Overall, the cast feels like real people, which makes the story even more engaging.

Why I Loved This Movie 

What truly touched me about "Elsewhere" is the depth of its characters and how it deals with real-life issues like loss, letting go, and the need to heal. 

Bruno's journey of grief and self-discovery felt authentic and moving, making you think about how we all cope with life's unexpected turns. 

I'm always drawn to character-driven movies, and "Elsewhere" nailed it with its focus on personal struggles rather than over-the-top drama. Watching Bruno face his challenges and come out stronger in the end was inspiring. 

The beautiful coastal setting also plays a huge role in the film—it almost feels like a character itself. The serene landscapes and calm surroundings create a sense of peace, making it easy to understand Bruno's heartache.

Every time the camera lingers on the countryside, you feel a sense of relaxation that adds to the film's emotional depth.

I give this one a five-star rating. Again, this one is for you if you enjoy character-driven movies featuring challenging life issues mixed with hope and growth.

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Haunted Wedding (2024) - Hallmark Movie Review

Few couples would want their wedding to be haunted by a real ghost.  Even if the bride and groom didn't mind, I doubt there would be very many people who would want to attend a haunted wedding.  But, leave it to Hallmark to find a way to make a haunted wedding a romantic event.

With Halloween approaching, I wanted to find a movie that fit with the season, but I had no desire to be scared witless.  When I discovered Hallmark had just released "Haunted Wedding", I trusted it would be a pleasant "haunting".  

The ghost was beautiful, yet threatening, but nothing was really scary about this movie.  Howling wind, flickering lights, thunder, and lightening was the extent of what most could see.  However, the bride and groom, who happened to be paranormal enthusiasts, could actually see and hear the ghost.  They were quickly drawn into her story and set out on a quest to help her before their own wedding.

I was not the least bit disappointed in Haunted Wedding!  It was a very enjoyable way to get into the "spirit" of Halloween.  There will be no nightmares as a result of this movie.

 

Synopsis of Haunted Wedding

Currently, only available on channels
that stream the Hallmark Channel
I watched it on Frndly TV

Jana Atwell is a high school teacher and Brian Fuller is an antique dealer in Philadelphia.  Not exactly professions that would instantly make you think of paranormal investigators, but both embraced "spooky" and hoped they would find proof that there are real ghosts.

While ghost hunting in an abandoned sanitarium for the criminally insane, Brian chose to ask Jana to marry him.  This did not seem to be an unusual location for a proposal since the couple had met at PolterCon. 

Of course, Jana accepted the proposal.  It seemed only fitting that she would immediately start planning their wedding to take place at Keystone Manor, a renowned haunted hotel.

The Keystone Manor is haunted by a real ghost, Angelique DeMornay, who died of a broken heart in the 1700's.  She was only 26 years old when she died in her sleep.  One of the bedrooms upstairs was her bedroom in life, and is still maintained for her.  It is off limits to guests and kept as close to the original as possible.  

Angelique was engaged to Revolutionary war hero, Lieutenant Malcolm Buchanan, who was killed by British soldiers on his way to get married.  They had planned to elope on Oct 13, which happens to be Jana & Brian's wedding date.  One more thing the two couples have in common, Brian looks exactly like Malcolm.

Jana is the first person who has ever been able to hear or see the ghost of Angelique.  When Brian enters the room, he can see Angelique too, but she believes he is Malcolm.  When she is told of their plans to marry in a few days,  she declares no one is to wed in her home ever.

 

 

My favorite line in the movie was spoken by Brian when he proposed.  He said:  "I've spent my life seeking out lost souls and in the process, I found my soul mate".

In spite of the ghosts, the spooky setting and the sadness associated with lives and love cut short, this was a very romantic movie with a really sweet ending.  Romantics at heart will not want to miss this Hallmark movie!

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2024 Hallmark Christmas Movies Reviewed

Hallmark's Countdown to Christmas begins Friday, October 18th with a new Hallmark film  Twas The Date Before Christmas. This year Hallmark brings over 35 new Christmas movies on the Hallmark and Hallmark Mystery channel.

 

A few of the most anticipated 2024 Hallmark Christmas movies are:

Three Wiser Men And A Boy

They are back! One of the best Hallmark Christmas movies is back with a sequel featuring the original cast:  Andrew Walker, Tyler Hynes and Paul Campbell. Reunited this trio takes on parenting with a now growing up baby (Boy) and all the antics and love that resonates.

Holiday Touchdown A Chief's Love Story

The title tells all in this highly anticipated Hallmark Christmas movie which premieres November 30th. Tyler Hynes, Hunter King and Ed Begley Jr. star with Donna Kelce, Jenna Bush Hagar as supporting cast adding a touch of realism to the movie.

Vying for fan of the year is King with Hynes the marketing brains and fan evaluator as the finalists weave their way to the goal of Fan Of The Year. Filmed in Missouri, speculation is high trying to predict who from the Chiefs may pop up in the movie...

Unwrapping Christmas

New four part Christmas series which airs November 7, 14, 21, 28. 

A Christmas Quest

It is not Hallmark Christmas without Lacey Chabert. This year Lacey stars with Kristoffer Polaha in this holiday story featuring mystery, adventure, Iceland and treasure of the Yule Lads, premieres December 1. Filmed in Iceland.. enjoy!

A few favorites from seasons gone by to look for in the 2024 Season.

A Merry Scottish Christmas 2023

The number one movie of 2023 at Hallmark1 Party of Five fans showed up for this movie and the movie/reunion did not disappoint. Lacey Chabert and Scott Wolf play siblings on a family trip to Scotland during the holidays. Family reunions and family mysteries are in the air. Filmed in Ireland and Scotland and the Duns Castle Estate is featured in a movie full of gorgeous landscapes and castles.

Never Been Chris'd 2023

The A team Hallmark actor Tyler Hynes leads reunion as hometown friends reunite for Christmas Hallmark love triangle, the Hallmark way. As always  Hynes brings humor, wit and a few winks to this holiday movie.

Three Wise Men And A Baby 2022

By far, the best Hallmark Christmas movie of 2022 was Three Wise Men and A Baby with Andrew Walker, Tyler Hynes and Paul Campbell (who also co wrote the movie.) Sure, the storyline may sound a bit familiar from the original movie, but this movie will bring smiles for the second time with a cast of Hallmark A team actors and their chemistry. 

A Cozy Christmas Inn

Jodie Sweetin (Full House) and David O'Donnell take on Alaska, Christmas, old loves reuniting and B and B's all in one charming Hallmark movie. If you love Hallmark then you can surmise the storyline and great to see O'Donnell back. He was in Christmas Under Wraps with Candace Cameron Bure, also in Alaska! 

Haul Out The Holly And Haul Out The Holly: Lit Up  Sequel 2022

Hallmarkies loved the first Haul Out The Holly and continues the love with the sequel. The characters continue to battle their inner Grinch with the annual HOA decorating competition and all that entails for the winning homeowner to win the coveted award.

It's a sequel, it is cute, it is Christmas, it is Hallmark and we love it. Lacey Chabert  and Wes Brown reprise their roles in this cute sequel which continues the charm of the first move. The  cast which proved its' chemistry already in the first movie also continues which contributes to the comfortable feel of the characters.

More Hallmark Christmas Movies Reviews

Hallmark Christmas Moves 2023 Reviewed by The Savvy Age 

Hallmark Christmas Movies 2022 Reviewed by The Savvy Age

Hallmark Christmas Movies 2021 Reviewed by The Savvy Age

You, Me & The Christmas Trees by The Savvy Age

A New Year's Resolution by Cynthia 

Hallmark Christmas Movies 2020 Reviewed by The Savvy Age23

Finding Father Christmas by Cynthia

Christmas Tree Lane by The Savvy Age

Broadcasting Christmas by Cynthia

Top Ten Hallmark Christmas Movies by The Savvy Age

Debbie Macomber's Mr. Miracle Hallmark Movie Review by Cynthia

Where To Find Hallmark Christmas Movies?

 The Hallmark Everywhere App offers wide access to the Hallmark Channel content, but a cable subscription is necessary. Your cable subscription username and password wil be needed to log in.

Hallmark + is the rebranded  Hallmark Movies Now  which is a streaming service for a monthly fee. A seven day free trial is available.  Find information on pricing and the free trial here.

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A Man Called Otto: A Heartwarming Movie about Transformation and Connection

The Storyline of A Man Called Otto

A Man Called Otto follows the story of Otto Anderson, a grumpy and bitter man who lives his life through strict routines and a pessimistic outlook. 

After the loss of his wife, Otto seems to have given up on finding joy in anything or anyone. The plot unfolds with him attempting to distance himself from the world around him, but life has other plans. 

New neighbors, especially the spirited Marisol, disrupt his carefully crafted isolation, and slowly, we start to see the layers of Otto's past and the reasons behind his anger.

The unexpected twists and turns make the storyline so engaging. It's not just a straightforward tale of a man rediscovering happiness. There are moments of humor, touching flashbacks that explore Otto's history, and scenes that offer a glimpse into the depth of his emotions. 

As the story progresses, it's hard not to be swept up in the mixture of heartache and healing. The movie balances serious themes like grief and loneliness with moments of lightness, making it captivating and relatable.

The Incredible Cast

Tom Hanks delivers an incredible performance as Otto. 

At first, you see him as just a cranky man who's fed up with the world, but as the movie reveals more about his character, Hanks brings a touching vulnerability that feels so genuine. 

You begin to understand Otto's pain and the heartbreak he's been carrying. Hanks' ability to show both the tough exterior and the soft center of Otto makes his character believable and compelling.

The supporting cast is just as impressive. Mariana Treviño, who plays Marisol (I loved her character!), is a standout. Her energy and warmth perfectly contrast Otto's gruff nature, and the chemistry between the two feels real. 

The way Marisol pushes her way into Otto's life and manages to break down his walls is a huge part of why the film works. 

The other characters, from Otto's neighbors to his old friends, all play an essential role in fleshing out the world around him, making you feel like you're part of their community.

Why I Loved This Movie

At first, I thought A Man Called Otto would be just another movie about a grumpy old man who complains about life. But it's so much more than that. 

While Otto's grumpiness is central to the story, the reasons behind his attitude, such as the deep sense of loss he's been carrying, unfold in a touching and surprising way. 

His character growth throughout the movie kept me completely hooked. Even though you can sense where the story is going regarding Otto's transformation, the film doesn't rush it. The pacing allows you to connect with Otto, and you feel invested in his journey by the end.

What really stood out to me was the ending. It's heartwarming in the best way. 

The movie's last line, delivered by Marisol, who grew to respect Otto, brings everything full circle. It highlights how far Otto has come and how, despite all his grumpiness, he found a way to reconnect with the people around him.

I left the movie feeling uplifted and reminded of how powerful character-driven stories can be. The film shows how even the hardest hearts can soften with time and the right people.

5 STARS From Me!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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A Review of the Movie The Wild Robot

 

The Wild Robot opened in theaters this past weekend and my husband and I went to go see it.  Yes, I know it is a kids movie, but we have noticed that these days, kid's movies are some of the best to be seen......and we were right when it came to The Wild Robot.  It was a fun romp which also taught good lessons and sweetly showed the power of love and friendship in the face of adversity.

The movie starts with a crate smashed on a beach.  A family of otters, their cute heads sticking up out of the water see the crate and run to investigate.  One of them, while running around inside the crate, hit a button and bright blue eyes light up, and the life of ROZZUM unit 7134 begins.

The only thing that this poor robot wants is someone to help and a task to perform.  Unfortunately, all of the animals are terrified of her and run away the minute they see her.  She tries very hard to make friends but has no success at all until an accident leaves the robot in custody of a goose egg which she saves from a fox and then it hatches.  Roz, being the first thing the gosling sees, imprints on her as his mother and insists on following her wherever she goes.  

Over time the two form a bond, which happens to include the grumpy fox that tried to eat the egg earlier, (voice of Pedro Pascal) and a friendly mother opossum with a large group of babies who likes to give out parenting advice.

  

All the other animals on the island still think of Roz as "the monster" and don't want anything to do with her.  The gosling tries to make friends with other geese, but they all make fun of him and run when see who he considers his mother.  Due to this, Roz decides to teach him how to fly herself.  Some pretty funny shenanigans result from this plan that are very fun to watch.  To see the bond of the tiny gosling and the big robot grow is truly heartwarming.  As the gosling, now known as Brightbill, grows up, both he and Roz learn many things about the world, and about trust, compassion and love.

Before you know it, it is time for migration.  Roz and Brightbill have made friends with an old goose named Longneck, who asks Bright Bill to fly with him on the migration.  They all take off and head south and Roz is left with nothing to do but activate her homing beacon and go back to the factory.  She starts the beacon, but changes her mind, deciding to stay on the island and wait for Bright Bill to return.  Winter comes and it is much harsher than usual and the animals on the island are in danger of freezing to death.  Wanting to save them, Roz forces her friend the fox (Fink) to go out in the snow storm and sniff out all the animals so she can save them by bringing them to the house that she built for her and the gosling.  

Placing all the animals in the same one room house turned out to not be the best idea, as some were predators and some prey.  Somehow Roz and Fink talk them all into being friends as long as they are in this house.  These scenes were truly humorous and lovely, some of the best of the movie

Unfortunately, though Brightbill does come back to the island, so do the people from the Factory that Roz came from.  They are looking for her to take her back. Thus begins another adventure for Brightbill and his animal friends to save Roz.

I don't want to give away the whole movie, you really need to see it for yourself.  It was really beautiful and one you will walk from feeling warm and fuzzy.  I highly recommend this movie for both adults and children.  I believe people will love it regardless of their age.

All photo credits:  The Wild Robot/Universal Pictures

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Finding Strength in Struggles: Everything Must Go – A Five Star Movie Review

The Storyline of "Everything Must Go"

"Everything Must Go" tells the story of Nick Halsey, a man whose life falls apart. He loses his job, his wife leaves him, and she locks him out of their house, throwing all his belongings onto the front lawn. 

Instead of picking himself up right away, Nick chooses to live on the lawn and starts selling everything he owns in a yard sale. 

As the days pass, he learns important life lessons about himself and what's truly valuable.

The movie is about hitting rock bottom, facing harsh realities, and figuring out how to rebuild when life takes a hard turn. 

It's a simple yet impactful story that hits home for many who have faced unspeakable challenges.

An Excellent Cast

Will Ferrell plays Nick Halsey, and it's not the usual comedy role you'd expect from him. 

I was surprised by how serious and believable he was in this part. I got so drawn into the story that I stopped seeing him as Will Ferrell, the comedian. He became Nick, a guy struggling with his life falling apart, and it was easy to forget his other famous roles.

Another standout in the movie is Rebecca Hall, who plays Samantha, Nick's new neighbor. She brings warmth and depth to her character and helps push Nick toward figuring out what he wants and maybe needs. 

Christopher Jordan Wallace plays Kenny, a young kid who helps Nick with his yard sale, and I really enjoyed his performance. He was so effective in his role, and his character was a nice reminder that friendships can form in unexpected ways. 

Lastly, I've always liked Laura Dern. Her small role as Nick's high school friend added believability and heart to the movie. Her presence brought extra star power, making her character feel real and relatable.

Why I Enjoyed This Movie

What I liked most about "Everything Must Go" was how, unfortunately, it would be relatable to some.

This character-driven movie delivers some important messages about life—sometimes, everything falls apart, and we must figure out how to rebuild. 

It resonated with me because it shows that even when life hits hard, there's always a way forward, even if it takes time to see it. 

Will Ferrell's performance was a huge surprise. I didn't expect him to be so convincing in a serious role, but he made me forget I was watching the same actor from all those comedies. 

I also really enjoyed Christopher Jordan Wallace as the young boy Kenny. He brought a lot of heart to the story, and his character was more than just a sidekick—he was a big part of Nick's journey. 

Oh, and the movie does offer an unexpected twist - I didn't see that coming!

The Tone of the Movie

The tone of Everything Must Go is a mix of raw realism and subtle hope. 

It shows life's harsh realities—flaws, failures, and the messes we make—but it also leaves you feeling like there's a way forward, even when things seem broken. 

The movie doesn't sugarcoat the struggles, yet it sprinkles in moments of light, reminding us that no matter how flawed we are, we can find a path toward rebuilding if we're willing. 

It's a reflective, grounded story that feels real yet offers small glimmers of hope.

If you're into a serious movie about life lessons that doesn't leave you feeling like there's absolutely no hope, this is your movie. Despite the struggles of the main character, some light shines through.

Check out the trailer:

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Love's Portrait - Hallmark Movie Review

It seems some faces are just meant to be painted, photographed and filmed.  That is certainly true for the Love's Portrait star, Aubrey Reynolds.  

In the movie, Reynolds portrays a young woman who is still grieving the death of her husband, even though it has been 3 years since he died in a car accident.  Hallmark picked the right actress for this movie.  She comes across as being very gentle, kind and considerate, as well as content, but some of her facial expressions convey sorrow.  

She is truly the portrait of a sweet soul with an aching heart.

In the first few minutes of the movie, you are introduced to Lily Young (Aubrey Reynolds) and her co-workers who adore her.  We find out about Lily's life, what she does and does not want now or in her future.  The movie moves forward quickly when a stunning portrait arrives at the museum where she works and plans are quickly made for travel. 

 

Love's Portrait Movie Synopsis

Love's Portrait

Lily's boss, Michelle, is determined to help Lily find someone to date.  She has even gone so far as to add a profile to a dating app on Lily's behalf.  However, Lily isn't ready to start dating again and refuses to play along.  She is happy with her job as the museum curator and is content to focus on that.

When a new portrait arrives at the museum, everyone is immediately interested in it because it appears to be a portrait of Lily.  However, there is no packing slip in the box and the painting is not signed.  Thus, they all want to find out the identity of the artist.  Michelle is certain the artist is Lily's destiny and she is determined to find out the origin of the painting.  She sends her assistant to the deliveryman's home and he finds the packing slip in his truck. 

It turns out that the painting was shipped from a small town in Ireland.  Before Lily even has time to process it all, Michelle hands her a ticket to Ireland and tells her she must go!  Somewhat reluctantly, Lily agrees because she really is intrigued by the painting and would like to solve the mystery of the artist's identity, plus why he painted her.

And, this is where the fun begins .......

 

This really is a delightful movie.  All of the people in Ireland are awesome and fun, starting with the postmistress who clearly has her own interest in the painting as well as Lily's mission to find the artist.

Be sure to check this movie out on a day when you are seeking a bit of romance and mystery together.

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A Senior Love Story: Movie Review of The Leisure Seeker

The Storyline of The Leisure Seeker

The Leisure Seeker (2017) is a heartfelt journey that captures the essence of love and adventure in the twilight years. 

The film follows the story of Ella and John Spencer, a married couple who decide to take one last road trip in their vintage RV, aptly named "The Leisure Seeker." 

Their journey takes them from Boston to Key West as they seek out Ernest Hemingway's home, fulfilling a long-held dream. 

Along the way, the couple navigates the complexities of aging, illness, and the bittersweet memories of their shared past. 

The movie is filled with charm and heart. It beautifully portrays the deep bond between Ella and John and showcases the joy and sorrow of a long-lasting relationship. 

While the film is often light-hearted, it doesn't shy away from the realities of growing old, making it both a touching and thought-provoking experience.

The Talented Cast

The cast of The Leisure Seeker is nothing short of spectacular, with Donald Sutherland and Helen Mirren delivering standout performances as John and Ella Spencer. 

Sutherland's portrayal of John, a retired English professor suffering from memory loss, is both tender and poignant. He captures the confusion and frustration of his condition while also showing the deep love he still holds for his wife. 

On the other hand, Helen Mirren brings warmth and resilience to Ella's character. She is the driving force behind their journey, determined to create one last adventure despite their challenges. 

Her performance is a delicate balance of strength and vulnerability, making Ella a character who is both relatable and inspiring. The chemistry between Sutherland and Mirren is undeniable, and they truly bring the Spencers' love story to life on screen.

Movie Accolades

The Leisure Seeker had its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) in 2017.

The film was also featured at several other international film festivals, including the Venice Film Festival. 

The Leisure Seeker received a warm reception upon its release, with particular praise for the performances of its two leads. Helen Mirren's outstanding performance earned her Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy nomination at the Golden Globe Awards. 

The film was also recognized for its screenplay and direction, which perfectly balanced humor and drama. 

While it may not have swept the awards circuit, the accolades it did receive were well-deserved. They highlighted the film's ability to touch audiences with its heartfelt story and memorable characters. The film's recognition is a testament to the strength of its narrative and the power of its performances.

Why I Loved This Movie

What I loved most about The Leisure Seeker is its portrayal of pure heart and the enduring love of a long-term relationship. 

The film beautifully captures the complexities of love, especially when faced with the challenges of aging and illness. 

Watching Ella and John navigate their journey together, I couldn't help but feel deeply for this couple who, even in their senior years, were determined to live out their dream, no matter what life threw their way. 

Their story reminds us of the power of love and commitment and the importance of cherishing every moment with those we hold dear. 

This movie made me reflect on the beauty of enduring love and the adventures that still await us, regardless of age or circumstance.

Take a Look at The Trailer

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

You Can Watch The Leisure Seeker on Prime, Where Available

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Jazz Ramsey: A K-9 Hallmark Mystery Movie Review

There is nothing like a gorgeous male to grab your attention and force you to watch a movie!  Yes, I am talking about Zeus (Dillon the Dog), the handsome dog in Jazz Ramsey: A K-9 Mystery movie.

I had assumed the Jazz Ramsey mystery movie would follow the book series by the same name and, to some degree, it does.  This movie is based on the plot of the second book in the series, The Secret of Bones: A Jazz Ramsey Mystery Book 2, but uses the German Shepherd breed from the first book.  

They do make it clear in the movie that Jazz trains cadaver dogs setting the stage for a different dog or dog breed to be used if Hallmark decides to make it into a series.  Although, let's face it, they are not likely to find a more handsome lad in all the world!

I suspect they used the German Shepherd because that is the breed most of us associate with police dogs, but cadaver dogs include the Border Collie, Labrador Retriever, Belgian Malinois, Coonhound, Beagle, Doberman, English Springer Spaniel, St. Bernard, several other shepherd breeds and of course, the Bloodhound. These breeds are chosen due to their anatomical & behavioral traits and go through hundreds of hours of training.  They are very impressive and dedicated dogs.

Jazz Ramsey: A K-9 Mystery Movie Synopsis

Jazz Ramsey has been invited to Astor Academy (high school for girls) to give a demonstration of the remarkable abilities of the cadaver dog she is currently training to the school's Forensic Science Club.  She is allowed to set up her presentation in a rarely used room on the 3rd floor of the school.  

In preparation, she hides two human bones in the room for Zeus, the cadaver dog, to find.  When the club members are assembled, Jazz gives Zeus the order to find, but he uncovers more then the hidden bones.  

Zeus finds a real, complete dead body that has been hidden under the floor.  Because of the glasses and the clothes on the body, Jazz and the headmistress believe it is Bernadette Quinn, a retired teacher that was not very popular.  

There are a lot of secrets discovered during the investigation.  The ending was rather surprising, which makes this movie the perfect mystery!

---

Jazz Ramsey: A K-9 Mystery is not currently available on Amazon.  Because it was so recently released, it is only available on the Hallmark Channel or on a streaming service that offers Hallmark movies.  I watched it on Frndly TV.

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Just My Type Hallmark Movie Review

This Hallmark movie caught my attention as I was scrolling down the list of movie titles available to watch. 

We have all heard the phrase "just my type" in reference to characteristics an individual possesses that appeal to us. However, in this case, for some reason the word "type" grabbed by attention and made me think of typing and typewriters.  

I must have seen a trailer in the past for this movie because the main characters are writers.  As a matter of fact, Martin Clayborne (the published author in the movie) writes all of his books on his old faithful typewriter.  Somewhere in my mind, I must have recalled that tidbit of information.

The movie title, Just My Type, is a cute play on words for both reasons: the typewriter element and the attraction element.

One more thing, it never hurts to bring a beautiful puppy along to melt our hearts.  Ernie (Briar, the golden retriever) is just my type! 

 

Just My Type Movie Synopsis   

Just My Type - DVD or Prime Video

Vanessa Sills (Bethany Joy Lenz) is a magazine writer in NYC.  She is up for a promotion to senior lifestyle editor for the magazine, but she has heavy competition.  Her next article is ready so she decides she has time for a short weekend break with her friend.  When she recognizes the reclusive mystery writer, Martin Clayborne, in a small town gas station, she reconsiders her next article.  Perhaps, she should replace it with an interview with Clayborne.  After all, he hasn't given an interview in 5 years.  Getting that interview might be just what she needs to further her career.  

Martin Clayborne (Brett Dalton) is enjoying his solitude in a small town that respects everyone's anonymity and privacy.  Marty is very active in the town activities.  Even when he is mistaken for a gas station attendant, he jumps right in to pump gas.  When Vanessa recognizes him as her favorite mystery writer, he avoids admitting his true identity by saying he "gets that all of the time".  Of course, his dog, Ernie, who is featured on his book cover, is lying on the ground not too far away.  In spite of his denial, it is pretty obvious to Vanessa that he is Martin Clayborne. 

This is where the real fun begins!  Vanessa starts finding ways to "bump" into Martin in hopes of convincing him to give her an interview, which he really does not want to do.  

Perhaps, she is just the type to get him to open up and give that long awaited interview!

 

 

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Introducing Joe Pickett, Season 1

Joe Pickett is the new, unassuming game warden in a remote area of Wyoming. He is a quiet man and not your typical hero. Joe is publically introduced to his neighbors in Saddle String as a push-over after a poacher holds him at gunpoint - with Joe's gun. The "bad guys" consider him to be easy-to-manage and believe he'll fall in line with the how-it's-done-here mentality of the town and surrounding public lands. But Joe is a game warden who follows the rules, and expects everyone else to follow the rules too, even if he has to give his life to protect the wildlife. In this review, I will tell you a bit more about Joe and the characters of Saddle String.

Photo Credit: By Bob Wick of the Bureau of Land Management
(public domain) 

Joe Pickett, Season 1

As a young boy, Joe decides he wants to become a game warden. The outdoors is his sanctuary and he has a caring spirit.  

Joe Pickett season 1, episode 1 opens almost immediately with a life or death situation during Joe's normal game warden business. Ote Keeley is a local outfitter and hunting guide. He needs his hunting license to make a living and support his family be he's also a poacher and Joe catches him in the act. During the confrontation, Ote taunts Joe for having arrested the Governor for fishing without a license. 

"I didn't know he was the Governor".  Joe responded. But it wouldn't have made a difference if he had known. Rules are rules. And unlike Joe's predecessor, Vern, Joe doesn't cut deals or do favors. He doesn't follow Vern's suggestion to focus on ticketing the tourists and looking the other way for the residents. 

During the confrontation, Ote takes Joe's sidearm and holds him at gun point. Even at gunpoint, Joe doesn't back down from his plan to write him up for poaching. Fortunately, they come to a sort of truce and no one dies. Not on that day.

Later, Ote's body is found, shot dead with an arrow, in Joe's yard. Joe is trying to figure out why Ote would have come to his home on horseback, with an arrow in him. While law enforcement immediately arrests a suspect - surprisingly, they don't arrest Joe for the murder - Joe begins researching the crime from the game warden perspective. Ote was killed with an illegal arrow tip. 

As the murder count increases, people seem to be falsely accused, evidence disappears, and Joe knows he's missing a piece of the puzzle. But will he, his wife, and children live through the investigation or should he give up his job and turn a blind eye to it all?

This story is a modern western murder mystery in a gorgeous mountainous setting. There were so many characters who were unlikeable in this one small town that I couldn't guess who was exactly at fault. 

Characters:

Joe Pickett (Michael Dorman) and his wife, Marybeth (Julianna Guill) are trying to raise their children in a peaceful and safe setting. Marybeth was a lawyer until she made the conscious decision to stay home and raise her children - rather than be the stressed, absent parent that busy lawyers often are.  Her mother Missy (Sharon Lawrence) frequently berates Marybeth for this choice, for being a game warden's wife, and for choosing a simple life.  Interesting that Missy feels like she's in the position to judge anyone about their life choices.

Ote Keeley (Benjamin Hollingsworth) is the "degenerate" married to April Keeley (Vivienne Guynn) and they have children. Even though Ote died at the very beginning of the series, we think about him alot. And April incites both disgust and empathy.

Nate Romanowski (Mustafa Speaks) is the prepper/recluse who is immediately arrested for the murder of Ote based solely on one incident they had in the past (Ote killed one of Nate's birds of prey) and because Nate owns a bow. Nate comes across as frightening and perhaps manipulative. He asks Joe to find the truth and Marybeth ends up being his lawyer for the murder trial.

There is a huge cast. And far too many to list. There are the rich folks, poor folks, law-abiding folks, schemers, very strange-but-harmless folks, and the killers.  Most all of law enforcement and politicians are questionable and either lazy/inept or trying to redirect. 

I enjoyed Joe Pickett, Season 1 so much that I binge-watched it one weekend. I immediately began recommending it to others. I love thriller/mysteries that are set in amazing settings. The elk, bison, and mountains are all peaceful eye-candy. The clash between the good guys, bad guys, and flawed guys is the cherry on top. 

The Joe Pickett series written by C.J. Box

This tv series is based on the books written by C.J. Box. I have book 1 in my kindle and haven't read it yet only because I've been so engrossed in several of W. Michael Gear's historical fiction series. After discovering the Joe Pickett tv series by accident, you can know that I will begin reading the C.J. Box books next.  Especially since there are many books in the written series and only 1 and 2 and the television series. 

Related Links

Joe Pickett, season 1 on Amazon Prime Video or DVD

Author C.J. Box on Amazon:   Open Season (A Joe Pickett Novel Book 1)

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The Holdovers - Movie Review: A Thoughtful Journey of Sacrifice and Redemption

The Holdovers is a movie that resonated deeply with me, not just because of its engaging plot but also because of the powerful themes it explores. 

Released in 2023, the film weaves together a story of sacrifice, personal growth, and the challenging journey of overcoming long-held emotional baggage. 

The Plot of The Holdovers

At its core, The Holdovers is about a group of people who, due to various circumstances, find themselves stuck together over the Christmas holidays at a New England boarding school. 

The remarkable Paul Giamatti plays the central character, Paul Hunham, a curmudgeonly teacher who seems perpetually discontented with life. He is assigned to stay behind at the school to supervise a small group of students who, for different reasons, can't go home for the holidays. 

The movie dives into the lives of these "holdovers"—both the students and Paul himself—as they navigate the complexities of their circumstances. 

Paul is a character burdened by his past decisions and struggles to find meaning in his current life. 

The students, each with unique stories and reasons for staying back bring their own challenges and perspectives. One of the most compelling storylines involves a student named Angus, who is grappling with personal loss and isolation. 

Throughout the film, a sense of melancholy intertwines moments of levity and hope. 

The narrative slowly peels back the layers of each character, revealing their vulnerabilities and the heavy emotional baggage they carry. It becomes clear that each of them has something to learn and something to give, even if they don't realize it at first.

What struck me most about The Holdovers was its exploration of sacrifice and the process of letting go of personal baggage. 

The movie masterfully portrays how the characters, especially Paul, come to terms with their pasts and find ways to move forward. 

It's not a story filled with grand gestures or dramatic epiphanies but one of small, significant moments of realization and change. 

The film left me with mixed emotions—sadness for what the characters had endured and hope for their futures.

The Talented Cast Featuring Paul Giamatti

The cast of  The Holdovers is one of its greatest strengths. 

Paul Giamatti leads the ensemble and delivers an outstanding performance as Paul Hunham. Giamatti's portrayal of the gruff yet deeply wounded teacher is both nuanced and compelling, capturing the essence of a man who is both relatable and flawed. 

Alongside Giamatti, we have Da'Vine Joy Randolph, who plays Mary Lamb, a dedicated school cook who also finds herself staying back during the holidays. Her character adds a layer of warmth and empathy to the story, countering Paul's gruff demeanor. 

Dominic Sessa plays Angus, a troubled student whose storyline is central to the film's exploration of grief and redemption. His portrayal of a young man struggling with the weight of his circumstances is touching and powerful. 

Other notable cast members include Carrie Preston, who plays Paul's estranged wife, and Brady Hepner, who plays another student dealing with the complexities of teenage life.

Why I Loved The Holdovers

The casting of Paul Giamatti, who has long been one of my favorite actors, initially drew me to The Holdovers. 

His ability to bring depth to every role he plays is always a treat to watch, and this film is no exception. After reading a summary of the storyline, I decided to watch the movie, and I'm so glad I did.

I sincerely appreciate character-driven movies that offer insights into the human condition, and The Holdovers perfectly fits that bill. 

The film is more than just a story about a group stuck together over the holidays; it's a nuanced exploration of life's complexities, choices, and burdens. 

Despite the film's often somber tone, it never feels overwhelmingly bleak. There's a delicate balance between the sadness of the characters' situations and the quiet moments of connection and understanding that offer a glimmer of hope. 

Ultimately, The Holdovers is a film that stayed with me long after the credits rolled. It reminds me of the importance of compassion, understanding, and the willingness to confront our pasts to move forward. 

I recommend it to anyone who enjoys a thoughtful, well-crafted story with rich character development and a meaningful message.

Preview the Trailer:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

You Can Watch The Holdovers Via Prime, Where Available

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