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Sunday, July 13, 2025

Yellowstone Prequel Watch: Why 1923 Had Me Completely Hooked

Spoiler Alert: This post contains spoilers from the Yellowstone universe, especially 1883 and 1923. If you haven't watched and want to go in blind, I suggest stopping here, because I can't help but talk about what I just saw!

A Quick Look Back: The Yellowstone Timeline

If you're like me, and you started with Kevin Costner in modern-day Yellowstone (the original series), then you might have been surprised to learn there's a full backstory behind the Dutton family, spanning generations. It starts with 1883, then moves to 1923, and finally lands in the present-day ranching saga we all know from the original show.

1883 tells the brutal, emotional journey of how the Dutton family made it west.
1923 picks up 40 years later, focusing on the next generation trying to hold onto what was built.
Yellowstone brings us to modern day, with John Dutton III (Costner) doing everything he can to protect the family's legacy.

The Lineage: Connecting 1883 to 1923

Let's sort this out, because the family tree can be a little tangled! Although I've seen both 1883 and 1923, I had to do some research to tie a few characters together.

In 1883, James Dutton (played by Tim McGraw) and his wife Margaret (Faith Hill) lose their daughter Elsa during the journey west. Elsa is also the narrator for both 1883 and 1923.

The Duttons settle in Montana after the events of 1883, but by the time we get to 1923, things have shifted. James and Margaret Dutton (from 1883) have passed away, and their two sons—John Jr. and Spencer—are being raised by James's brother, Jacob Dutton (played by Harrison Ford), and his wife, Cara (played by Helen Mirren).

Jacob has stepped in as the family patriarch, and together, he and Cara are doing everything they can to protect the land, the legacy, and the next generation of Duttons.

The Acting: What Makes 1923 So Gripping

The acting in this series is outstanding. Every character feels real, weathered by life, love, grief, and duty.

Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren absolutely carry the show with grit and grace. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the quiet strength they bring to the Dutton legacy just pulls you in.

But it's not just them. The entire cast delivers. Every scene feels lived-in, and honestly, the show would not hit the same way without such powerful performances across the board.

The Storyline: Drama on the Ranch... and in Africa?

You read that right—Africa! One of the biggest surprises for me in 1923 was the side storyline involving Spencer Dutton, who is Jacob's nephew (and James Dutton's son). He's off in Africa dealing with wild animals, personal demons, and eventually, the long journey home to help save the family.

Meanwhile, back in Montana, everything is unraveling. The Duttons are facing massive challenges—economic hardship, land disputes, and brutal violence.

And then there's Teonna, a Native American girl in a Catholic boarding school who's facing her own horrifying challenges. Her storyline is raw, powerful, and deeply emotional. This part of the story is gripping and quite upsetting.

There's never a dull moment. Every episode left me thinking, "I need to know what happens next!"

The Ending: Are You Kidding Me?!

Let me just say—I was NOT ready for the way Season One ended.

No resolution, no bow tied neatly at the top. Just a big, emotional cliffhanger that left me staring at the screen, whispering "That's it?!" I immediately looked it up, and thank goodness, 1923 has been renewed for a second season.

Streaming Update: What I Learned

🕵️‍♀️ After reading Sam's comment below, I went down the streaming rabbit hole to figure out where and when the Yellowstone series—including 1923—is available.

1923 – Season 1

✅ I was able to watch Season 1 of 1923 on Netflix in Canada with my regular subscription. Unfortunately Season 1 of 1923 is only available via a Paramount Subscription, which you can get through Amazon Prime.
❌ Unfortunately, 1923 is not available on Netflix in the USA at the time of writing this. Again, you need a Paramount subscription.

1923 – Season 2

📅 Season 2 of 1923 was released in February 2025.
💳 It’s available through a paid Paramount+ subscription via Amazon Prime Video.

What's Next

🚫 There will be no Season 3 of 1923.
🔜 Instead, the Yellowstone Universe is continuing with a new series titled 1944.

🔍 Want to Know Where to Watch?

📌 To see where you can stream Yellowstone in Canada, the USA, and internationally, scroll down to the section near the bottom for a full breakdown.

What About Kevin Costner's Character's (John Dutton III) Direct Lineage in Current Day Yellowstone?

One thing I kept wondering while watching 1923 is how exactly this all connects to John Dutton III in Yellowstone. Who's his direct ancestor? Is it Spencer? One of the other brothers?

They haven't made it totally clear yet, and I think they're saving that for Season Two—especially once a few babies arrive (which seems to be where things are heading).

There are tons of theories online, and trust me, I've read more than a few. But for now, we're still piecing it all together.

Final Thoughts

1923 is one of those shows that sticks with you.

It's not just a Western—it's a family saga, a love story, a survival tale, and a sweeping look at a brutal and beautiful time in American history. If you're already a fan of the Yellowstone universe, I'd say 1923 is a must-watch.

Just be warned—you're probably going to fall in love with it like I did. And then you'll be counting the days until Season 2, just like the rest of us.

Let me know in the comments—have you watched 1923? What did you think? Are you Team Spencer? Team Cara? Or just in awe of how good the writing and acting are?

Oh, and so far, my fave character is the son, Spencer!

Here's the trailer:

How to Stream the Yellowstone Series: Canada, USA, and International:

1. Canada / International

As mentioned above, I went down the rabbit hole trying to figure out where the Yellowstone universe is available internationally, and it’s surprisingly complicated.

As of July 9, 2025, season 1 of 1923 is available on Netflix in Canada and many other international countries with a regular Netflix subscription. That’s where I watched it.

In Canada, the original Yellowstone series starring Kevin Costner (seasons 1 through 4) is also available on Netflix, along with part of season 5. The final half of season 5 requires a Paramount+ subscription via Amazon Prime Video.

For viewers in Australia, the original Yellowstone series is available on Stan.

That said, streaming rights vary widely by region, so it’s always best to check your local services for the most up-to-date information.

2. USA

In the United States, the Yellowstone universe is split across different platforms:

Yellowstone (original series) – Available only on Peacock
1923 and 1883 prequels – Available only on Paramount+ via Amazon Prime Video

1923 is not available on Netflix USA, even though it is in many other countries.

Final Tip

Streaming availability changes frequently and can vary by country. Be sure to check your own country’s streaming platforms directly to see what’s currently offered where you live.

You can watch 1923 via Amazon Prime where available.

**As per my opinion, viewer discretion is advised: The show includes significant violence and some distressing scenes.

Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN), Esty (Awin), and/or Zazzle Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”

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Friday, July 4, 2025

TURN: Washington's Spies (TV Series) Reviewed

The weather doesn’t always cooperate with our plans for the fourth of July. As often as not, our parties and community fireworks are cancelled due to rain, but we still seek a way to celebrate the 4th of July. This year, we will be watching Turn: Washington's Spies for the second time. It is a mini-series I can highly recommend to anyone who has an interest in American history and it is a great way to spend a rainy 4th of July.

Several years back, my husband and I watched the Turn series. I recently watched the pilot movie again so I could review it today. I was surprised by how much easier it was for me to follow the characters since I have previously seen the entire series. This is clearly a series worthy of watching more than once.

I will warn you in advance, it is about the Revolutionary War and does have some graphic war scenes and content. Any realistic war movie is not viewed so much for pleasure as it is for historical value. The Turn series has been deemed very accurate and is quite a lesson on the American War for Independence.

There are some things that happen in any war that you might not have ever considered. For instance, what does it look like to be the temporary "home" for the invading army? How it really changes everything: what you say, what you do, where you go. And, what about the "occupiers" lodging and food? They take over your homes, your restaurants or taverns, your churches, your work places and dictate what is acceptable for your daily lives. Your very life is always at risk by their whim.

TURN: Washington's SpiesWatch on Amazon Prime

TURN: Washington's Spies Series - Pilot Episode Synopsis

From the very first scenes of the pilot movie, you are introduced to the main characters and given very important information about their history with one another. The bonds that were formed in childhood affect their choices throughout the series.

The people of Setauket, a hamlet in Long Island, New York which in fact was the base of the Culper Spy Ring, found themselves entrenched in the Revolutionary War whether they wanted to be or not. As a matter of fact, the main character of the series didn't want to be involved, and he certainly did not wish to become a spy. However, he was forced to choose a loyalty, risking everything for himself and those he holds most dear.

_________

As you watch the pilot movie and the series, keep in mind they are based on the actions and decisions of real people. Those people changed history.

Turn: Washington's Spies Season 1Check Price Turn: Washington's Spies - Season 2 [DVD]Check Price Turn: Washington's Spies Season 3 [DVD]Check Price

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Monday, June 23, 2025

Hallmark Christmas In July Review

Enjoy the air conditioning and summer treats as Hallmark unveils its' Christmas in July programming. Hallmark fans will love a peek at what will be coming their way when Hallmark premieres its' Christmas programming in October.

New Series!

Hallmark Christmas At Sea premieres July 7th. Monday will be the night to view the new episodes of your favorite Hallmark stars and fans at sea. The very familiar and beloved Hallmark stars are cruising!

According to Hallmark : Merry Cruisemas with its' stars: "Benjamin Ayres, Jonathan Bennett, Wes Brown, Erin Cahill, Paul Campbell, Taylor Cole, Nikki DeLoach, Sarah Drew, Tyler Hynes, Kimberley Sustad and Andrew Walker".

Unwrapping Series

The Unwrapping series of Christmas movies first premiered last year on Hallmark plus. This year Hallmark is continuing their July theme of introducing new Christmas movies in July. The Unwrapping Christmas store is a gift wrapping store where four friends work and will take you on your next holiday adventure.

This year four new movies will air:

Unwrapping Christmas: Tina's Miracle

Starring Natalie Hall, Alec Santos on Saturday, July 5th. It's the battle of the Christmas gala for a gift wrapping store owner and a grumpy estate estate owner.

Unwrapping Christmas: Mia's Prince

Starring Nathan Witte and Kathryn Davis on Saturday, July 12th.

Heirs, wealthy, fairy tales and of course romance intertwine.

Unwrapping Christmas: Lily's Destiny

Saturday, July 19th. Is the true match destiny? Come along this Hallmark journey of chemistry with a dash of destiny.

Unwrapping Christmas: Olivia's Reunion

Hallmark favorite Cindy Busby and Jake Epstein star on Saturday, July 26th in a very Hallmark storyline of past loves reuniting or not? under Hallmark circumstances.

The Do Not Miss List of Hallmark Christmas Movies

These are the Christmas movies that are tried and true Hallmark Christmas with the OG stars fans love so much! A few movies not to miss whether it be Christmas in July, October, November or December.

Three Wise Men And A Baby And Its' Sequel Three Wiser Men And A Baby

Fans adore this series with the A list actors: Paul Walker, Tyler Hynes and Paul Campbell.

Always a huge fan favorite! Great chemistry, fun storyline, A team actors and a plot which does have some similarities to Three Men And A Baby.

Christmas Under Wraps And Sequel A Cozy Christmas Inn

Garland? No not that kind of garland, the city Garland. Oh yes! The secrets of Garland just might include Santa, elves, workshop and a very busy schedule in December. David O'Donnell and Candace Burr started in Christmas Under Wraps and years later a sequel A Cozy Christmas Inn was made with David O'Donnell and Jodie Sweetin plus the most of the original cast.

Very charming Christmas movies which will warm your heart and always worth watching and re watching.

Christmas At Pemberley Manor

Jessica Lowndes and Michael Rady star in holiday movie where the family estate (and maybe) its' heir could use a little Christmas magic. Lovely backdrop, comedy, chemistry and romance star.

Crown For Christmas

Always be on the lookout for a Crown For Christmas with Danica McKellar and Rupert Penry-Jones. This is one of the best Hallmark Christmas movies of all time in many Hallmarkies opinion. This royal palace romance is always include on best Hallmark movies list.

A Gift To Remember

The holiday is a backdrop versus major played in this delightful and sometimes overlooked Hallmark movie. Bookstore fans can relate as the bookstore employee collides - literally- with a customer and amnesia begin the chase for his identity. Great chemistry and don't forget the sequel Cherished Memories.

Christmas Waltz

Starring Will Kemp and Lacey Chabert. Dancing, more dancing, chemistry, more chemistry with a little romance after one of the pair has an unexpected pre wedding split.

More Hallmark Christmas Movies Reviewed

Hallmark Christmas Movies Reviewed 2024 by The Savvy Age
Hallmark Christmas Movies 2023 Reviewed by The Savvy Age
A Cozy Christmas Inn Reviewed 2022 by The Savvy Age
Hallmark Christmas Movies 2022 Reviewed by The Savvy Age
Hallmark Christmas Movies 2021 Reviewed by The Savvy Age

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Friday, June 6, 2025

Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Yarn Maker - Movie Review (2025)

I love cozy mystery movies! I have watched several cozy mystery movies by Great American Family and thus far, have enjoyed every one of them. I like having a mystery to try to solve without any gore or violent scenes to endure.

"A Case for the Yarn Marker" is the most recent cozy mystery movie I've watched. It is part of the Ainsley McGregor series that features a former criminologist who has chosen to leave Chicago to move to her favorite vacation destination where her brother lives. However, crime is everywhere, including Sweet River, Texas.

Along with the murder mystery, there is a touch of romantic interest between characters. In this movie, Ainsley McGregor (Candance Cameron Bure) is romantically interested in the fire chief of the city. Plus, her brother is the sheriff. She is teaching criminology in the local university and has opened a craft market for community artists. All things considered, whether she wants to be or not, she is going to be an integral part of crime investigations in Sweet River.

A Case for the Yarn Maker Synopsis

Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Yarn MakerWatch on Amazon
(subscription may be required)Ainsley McGregor is hosting a special event in her Bless Your Arts craft market and has invited Ellie Mitchum, a wealthy yarn company owner/founder, to speak. She is expecting someone who is happy to be there. After all, Mitchum is from Sweet River too and actually attended school in the event location. However, Ainsley has to welcome a somewhat irritable and rude individual.

According to other locals who knew her, Ellie Mitchum has never been a particularly nice person. She is even accused of stealing someone else's designs. The person accusing Ellie happens to be a respected member of the community who, unbeknownst to Ainsley, plans to confront Ellie at the event.

When Ellie Mitchum is murdered, there are plenty of suspects including members of her own family, company board members and of course, the "respected member of the community" who has accused her of being a thief.

Because Mitchum is not well liked, finding her murderer is like finding the proverbial needle in a haystack. Too many people had reason to want her gone.

More Cozy Mystery Movie Reviews

Gourmet Detective

A Healthy Place to Die (Gourmet Detective: Episode 2)

Death Al Dente (Gourmet Detective: Episode 3)

Eat, Drink and Be Buried (Gourmet Detective: Episode 4)

Roux The Day (Gourmet Detective: Episode 5)

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Sunday, April 13, 2025

War Dogs, A Movie Based on True Events That Had Me Saying “No Way This Happened!"

My Personal Review of War Dogs - A Wild Ride of a Movie I Couldn't Look Away From!

I watched War Dogs, and it completely surprised me in the best way possible.

Starring Jonah Hill, Miles Teller, Bradley Cooper, and Kevin Pollak, this movie is based on true events that are almost too unbelievable to be real! Yet here it is, brought to life on screen in the most entertaining, jaw-dropping way.

I don't always gravitate toward this type of movie, but I could've watched this one twice in a row.

That's how much I enjoyed it.

Based on True Events – Wait, This Really Happened?

What drew me in immediately was that War Dogs is based on a true story.

That always adds an extra layer of fascination for me. As the story unfolded, I kept shaking my head in disbelief. Two young guys—barely out of their twenties—manage to land a $300 million arms deal with the U.S. government? It's crazy outrageous, reckless, and somehow, true.

And despite all the antics, I found myself rooting for them a little! Even though I knew they were headed for disaster, I was hoping they could pull themselves out of the mess they ended up in!

The film makes you feel like you're right there with them—caught up in the adrenaline, the risk, and the denial of just how far over their heads they really are.

Outstanding Performances All Around

The acting in this movie is top-notch. Jonah Hill absolutely nails his role—he plays Efraim Diveroli with this mix of charm, manipulation, and just enough unhinged energy to keep you guessing. It's probably one of my favorite performances of his.

Miles Teller brings a grounded, relatable quality to his character, David Packouz, who helps balance out the chaos. You can feel his inner conflict as things spiral out of control. And Bradley Cooper, in his brief but impactful role, adds that mysterious power-player vibe that always enhances a film.

Even Kevin Pollak as the dry, slightly confused but ultimately helpful investor brought a quiet layer of humor to the mix. Every performance felt authentic and engaging, which is probably part of the reason the film held me from start to finish.

The Tone: Dark Humor Done Right

I especially appreciated the film's tone—it had just the right touch of dark and dry humor—the kind where you're laughing but also slightly horrified at the absurdity of what you're seeing. It's not slapstick or overdone; the humor comes from the situation itself, the ridiculousness of it all, and the characters' overconfidence and greed.

It reminded me a bit of The Wolf of Wall Street or American Hustle, in that you're watching this rollercoaster of bad decisions, but you can't look away—and somehow, you're still entertained the whole way through.

A Story That Keeps You Hooked

From the very beginning, the pacing is solid. It's one of those movies where you're never left wondering, "When will this pick up?" It is picked up. Right from the start. The narration works well, too—it helps to walk you through the chaos, especially when you're sitting there stunned by what's happening.

Every twist and turn just pulls you in deeper. I didn't find myself checking the time once, which says a lot. It's the kind of movie that fully immerses you—and even when it's over, you're still thinking about it.

Just a Heads-Up: Not Everything Actually Happened

As much as I loved War Dogs and was blown away by its true-to-life basis, it's worth mentioning that the movie definitely took some creative liberties.

Not everything played out exactly the way it's shown on screen. For example, that intense and crazy road trip through Iraq's "Triangle of Death"? Yeah, that never actually happened. It made for great suspense, but in real life, the guys never did that themselves—they hired someone else for the job.

While the core of the story is true, quite a few dramatic moments were added to give it that Hollywood punch.

Still, knowing that doesn't diminish how entertaining and wild the whole thing is—it just adds another layer of "Can you believe this?" to the experience.

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Love in Store Hallmark Movie Review

"Love in Store" starring Alexandra Breckenridge and Robert Buckley, is a feel-good movie for the forever hopeless romantic. Of course, it is predictable, but sometimes predictability is what you desire. No mystery solving "little grey cells" required. No fear of a horrifying moment that will make your heart jump or your skin crawl. Just a sweet romantic movie full of witty banter you can sit back, watch and enjoy.

The plot of the movie is based on an online shopping store reminiscent of The Home Shopping Network. HSN preceded Amazon.com and other online stores by a decade. You could, and still can, watch the entertaining hosts of HSN demonstrate products on TV and select the fabulous products you want from the comfort of your own home. Most likely, we all know someone who had boxes filled with their purchases arriving at their home weekly long before daily deliveries became commonplace.

In retrospect, it is rather funny to think back to those original "influencers" who seemed more like friends visiting us through our television. As a matter of fact, we actually had one family member who chatted about the hosts by name in conversations as if we all knew them personally. She completely trusted them to give her the best product recommendations.

Love in Store Movie Synopsis

Love in Store
DVD or Prime VideoCheck PriceTerrie Carpenter and David Crabtree are hosts on the "Shopping from Home" channel. They each have their own separate segments, hosting style, and regular "shoppers".

When the top selling host, Sharyn St. Clair, announces her retirement, the competition begins between Terrie and David to replace her in her prime-time spot. Their rivalry is obvious as they openly trade barbs with each other.

Then, the unthinkable happens: they get thrown together to co-host a program when Terrie's regular co-host has to take unexpected leave. Turns out, their witty exchanges are popular with the audience, which causes both of their ratings, viewership, and sales to go up.

There is "love in store" for these two, as sparks fly in more than one way between Terrie and David. They both end up asking each other David's online catch phrase, "What is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?"

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Monday, March 24, 2025

Legacy On Ice Memorial Tribute

The Legacy On Ice Memorial Tribute will be televised on Sunday, March 30 at 1 p.m. on NBC. Members and generations of the ice skating community gathered to honor and remember the athletes, families, coaches and mentors of their community who perished on Flight 5342 on January 29, 2025.

Powerful, emotional, impactful viewing. As if the viewer has been invited into the close knit ice skating community to honor those lost and help support the community.

The tribute was originally televised live and streamed on March 5th on Peacock. A Youtube tribute along with information for the family support fund is included below.

Veterans of the skating community participated whether it be through hosting, introducing skaters or skating. Bookmark March 30th to view or record the tribute.

Participants as listed on the US Figure Skating Website

Jeremy Abbott, 2014 Olympic Team Bronze Medalist
Sofia Bezkorovainaya, 2024-25 Team USA
Brian Boitano, 1988 Olympic Champion
Emily Bratti and Ian Somerville, 2024 U.S. Bronze Medalists
Jason Brown, 2014 Olympic Team Bronze Medalist
Ashley Cain, Two-Time U.S. Pairs National Champion
Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko, Two-Time Four Continents Ice Dance Bronze Medalists
Kitty and Peter Carruthers, 1984 Olympic Pairs Silver Medalists
Molly Cesanek and Yehor Yehorov, 2020 U.S. Junior Pewter Medalists
Nathan Chen, Two-Time Olympic Gold Medalist
Madison Chock and Evan Bates, 2022 Olympic Team Gold Medalists
Richard Dwyer, U.S. Figure Skating Hall of Famer
Alisa Efimova and Misha Mitrofanov, 2025 U.S. Pairs Champions
Sarah Everhardt, 2025 Four Continents Bronze Medalist
Peggy Fleming, 1968 Olympic Champion
Amber Glenn, 2024 Grand Prix Final Champion
Gracie Gold, 2014 Olympic Team Bronze Medalist
Scott Hamilton, 1984 Olympic Champion
Nancy Kerrigan, 1994 Olympic Silver Medalist
Ilia Kulik, 1998 Olympic Champion
Isabeau Levito, 2024 World Silver Medalist
Alysa Liu, 2022 World Bronze Medalist
Jimmy Ma, 2025 Four Continents Bronze Medalist
Ilia Malinin, 2024 World Champion
Katie McBeath and Daniil Parkman, 2025 U.S. Pairs Silver Medalists
Yebin Mok, 1998-2008 Team USA
Maxim Naumov, 2025 U.S. Pewter Medalist
Camden Pulkinen, Two-Time U.S. Bronze Medalist
Andrew Torgashev, 2025 U.S. Silver Medalist
Michael Weiss, Two-Time World Bronze Medalist
Johnny Weir, Three-Time U.S. Champion
Paul Wylie, 1992 Olympic Silver Medalist

The Youtube tribute

U.S Figure Skating Family Support Fund

A fund has been established for the families of the athletes, coaches and families who perished on January 29, 2025. Online donations accepted here.

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Friday, February 28, 2025

Invitation to a Murder (2023) Movie Review

My husband and I are constantly searching for a movie we can watch together and both enjoy. When we happened upon "Invitation to a Murder" (released as "An Invitation to Murder" in the UK), we immediately settled in for a great new whodunit movie that is similar to our beloved Hercule Poirot or Sherlock Holmes series. It is based on a story written by Gérard Miller and the screenplay was written by Brian O'Donnell.

The 1930's London setting is reminiscent of a Poirot story. A gathering of strangers in a remote mansion where one is killed and another is the killer also seems familiar.

The amateur sleuth in the movie, Miranda Green, is not as renowned as Poirot or Sherlock. Even though she does not possess their same level of experience or well-developed abilities, she still exhibits keen observation skills and her deductive reasoning is rather impressive.

The similarities are obvious, but the plot of "Invitation to a Murder" is quite unique with it's own surprises. The murder victim is as astonishing as the killer's identity.

With the promise of two more movies to be released in 2025, this new amateur sleuth seems set to become another admired detective in a great movie series that will be compelling to follow.

Invitation to a Murder Synopsis

Invitation To A Murder -
Available on DVD, Blu-ray or Rental on Amazon PrimeCheck Price

When Miranda Green receives an invitation to Abbott Island for an audience with Mr. Lewis Findley for the weekend, she doesn't quite know what to expect, but she is quite intrigued. After doing a bit of research on Lewis Findley, she can't resist the "adventure" or the mystery behind the invitation. Using the ticket she received with the invitation, she boards the train and quickly discovers she is not the only invited guest. There are 5 other invitees from widely varying backgrounds. It would seem, none have ever met Mr. Findley. Miranda immediately starts sharing her observations and trying to figure out what she believes are obvious inconsistencies. As they say, the plot thickens!

After taking the ferry to the island, the guests arrive at Findley's mansion where they are greeted by a few servants, but not Lewis Findley. The guests are informed that Mr. Findley has been delayed due to weather. They are escorted to their rooms and given instructions to meet again for cocktails in the lounge once they have settled in.

If You are An Amazon Prime Member, Click Here to View the Movie for FreeOver cocktails, they discover more details about each other by playing a game to guess which 2 facts about each guest are true, and which fact is a lie. Miranda shares how she can quickly deduce which fact is a lie by using her observations.

Between cocktails and dinner, several of the guests explore the mansion. Miranda explores a bit too much and is intercepted and redirected by one of the servants. This only serves to make her even more curious about what secrets are hidden in the mansion and she continues her exploration. She is, once again, intercepted, but this time by the butler who insists that she accompany him to the dining room for dinner.

Strange things happen during the night. Discoveries the following morning, along with the announcement that Mr. Findley will not be joining them on that day, only lead to more questions and suspicions. When the unthinkable happens and someone is murdered, all of the guests and staff are suspects.

Be Sure to Stay Tuned

"Murder at the Embassy" and "The Mystery of the Golden Spear" are both scheduled for release in 2025. Plus, they will both star Mischa Barton as Miranda Green. Having the same actress play the role will definitely establish Miranda Green as a soon to be renowned amateur sleuth.

Where to Watch

As Amazon Prime Members, we watched "Invitation to a Murder" on Amazon for free (with ads). It is also available for rental or purchase on Amazon.

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Sunday, February 23, 2025

The Good House Movie: Family Challenges With Love at the Core in a Gorgeous Setting

If you're looking for a movie that will offer a soothing escape and a deeper look into the complexities of life, The Good House might be just what you need.

It's a film that blends difficult life truths with moments of humor and hope, all set against a beautiful backdrop that provides its calming effect.

Set in a small, fictional town called Wendover, located in the picturesque New England area, the movie draws you in with its cozy, nostalgic vibe.

I was struck by how the stunning setting became a character of its own—perfectly reflecting the characters' inner lives and providing a sense of calm in a story that explores some pretty intense family dynamics.

Though fictional, Wendover feels so real with its charming homes, quiet streets, and endless water views. It makes you wish you could visit or even live there. Seriously, the area was calling my name.

The Heart of the Movie: Sigourney Weaver and Kevin Kline's Masterful Performances

At the heart of this film is the incredibly talented Sigourney Weaver, who plays Hildy Good, a real estate agent with a complicated past.

Sigourney plays the character and provides interspersing narration throughout.

Hildy's life is full of contradictions—she's tough and independent on the outside, but deep down, she's dealing with unresolved grief, addiction, and a lot of family baggage.

Weaver owns the role, bringing depth to Hildy that keeps you rooting for her even when she makes questionable decisions. Hildy's life story draws you into her choices and why she made them. Wrong or right, as a viewer, I could feel her dilemmas.

Opposite her is Kevin Kline, who plays Frank, a longtime friend of Hildy's who just might be the one person who understands her in a way that no one else can or does.

Kline and Weaver have great chemistry—their friendship feels genuine and warm. Their banter is fun, and how they navigate their relationship's ups and downs adds a layer of humor to the story, even when things get heavy.

Kline's character is kind, patient, tolerant, and forgiving. He sees Hildy for who she is and accepts her. He is the grounding force in this film.

Family Drama with a Side of Humor

This movie is a deep dive into family, relationships, and how people try to navigate life's many curveballs.

Hildy's strained relationship with her daughter, played by Morena Baccarin, may strike a chord with some. Despite these generational differences and misunderstandings, love exists underneath all the conflict.

It's that perfect mix of hard truths and moments that make you laugh or even sigh with recognition.

What I love about The Good House is that it doesn't shy away from the tough stuff, and somehow, you feel that everything will be okay.

It doesn't sugarcoat the reality of addiction, failed marriages, or the kind of loneliness that can come even in a crowd.

But there's also a lot of room for hope and healing here. Even when things feel hopeless, the film shows there are always chances for second chances, forgiveness, and growth.

A Great Escape, Despite the Serious Topics Covered

If you're like me and enjoy character-driven stories, then The Good House offers precisely that kind of experience.

It's one of those films where you just want to sit back and let the story unfold. The humor and wonderful setting help the movie manage life's highs and lows without overwhelming or weighing you down.

It's the kind of film that, by the end, makes you feel like you've learned something—not just about the characters but about life itself. It reminds you that perfection can never survive this challenging earthly existence. Growth; the movie reminds us that life is all about learning and growth.

It invites us to reflect on our own family dynamics and challenges and reminds us of the importance of taking a step back and re-evaluating what matters most.

Whether you're looking to escape from the stresses of huge global events or just need a breather from the fast pace of the world, The Good House is a great choice that will bring you down to a family-centered focus.

It offers a glimpse into people's lives, flaws, and connections with each other—wrapped up in a beautiful package of humor and heart.

Plus, with its gorgeous scenery and stellar cast, it's the perfect movie to watch when you just want to relax and reflect on the beautiful messiness of life.

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Timeless Love (2019) - Hallmark Movie Review

I really enjoy watching romantic movies even though they are often predictable. Like childhood fairy tales, I think most of us want a happy ending where they all live happily ever after. However, I do love it when the movie has an unusual plot.

The "Timeless Love" movie plot did not disappoint.

Many of us know how it feels to meet someone and become instant friends because we feel an immediate connection. However, it would be rare to meet someone for the first time and know our future together because we have already "lived" it.

This movie is not based on a victim with amnesia, as one might think. The main character is not a seer, psychic, fortune teller or "predictor" of any kind. And, she is not mentally unstable. She is simply an accident victim that is in a coma for two months and lives a different life while unconscious. More like a prolonged dream that feels very real. So real, that when she wakes from the coma, she is looking for her missing loved ones that don't exist in reality. We can almost feel her pain as she grieves the loss of the family she mentally had during her comatose state.

It doesn't help when those around her think she might need psychiatric help when she shares her experience.

Timeless Love Movie Synopsis

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After being in a car accident, Megan is in a coma for 2 months. While in her comatose state, she sees her husband, Thomas and two children. She is extremely happy with her life and doesn't even realize she is not "living" her life.

When she wakes from her coma, the hospital calls her parents and she can't help but wonder why her husband and children are not there to see her. When her parents tell her that she is single, has never been married or had children, she is devastated by the loss of her sweet family.

In addition to having to come to terms with reality, she also lost her job. Because of the length of time she was in a coma, they had to replace her. The temporary employment agency sends her to work at a photography studio and she is stunned to discover she knows everything about the owner. After all, she was/is married to him. Of course, she is a total stranger to him.

The Hallmark movie, "Timeless Love" starring Rachel Skarsten and Brant Daugherty is one of several movies that claims that name. It would be very easy to search for the title and end up watching the wrong movie, or at least not the movie you intended to watch.

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Friday, February 7, 2025

Downton Abbey Series and Movies Reviewed

In 2011, I watched each episode of Downton Abbey as it aired weekly with my daughter. No matter what else was going on in our days, we were in front of the TV 5 minutes before the show started. We didn't want to miss a thing, including the opening theme music. We were both completely captivated by the drama, the decor, the clothes and the family. It really was like taking a peek into the lives of nobility in 1912.

Over the course of the last few weeks, I watched the entire series and both subsequent movies again, but this time I watched them with my husband. Because of his job, he had never seen any of the episodes. Of course, he had heard of Downton Abbey, but didn't have the time to watch a series as it aired. Now, with the entire series available on Amazon Prime, we were able to watch the episodes back to back each night at whatever time we settled in to begin watching after dinner. Some nights, we would watch 2 episodes or part of the next episode just to see what happened next. I was surprised by how much I did not remember.

Being able to watch all 6 seasons at our convenience instead of being ruled by a specific airing date and time, was fabulous. It was also really nice to be able to replay a scene of the show to hear something that we didn't quite understand, or pause it as needed.

Currently, all 6 seasons of Downton Abbey are available free for Amazon Prime members. The two subsequent movies, Downton Abbey: The Motion Picture and Downton Abbey: A New Era are both available to rent. Since I owned the DVDs it wasn't necessary for us to rent them, but it is really nice to know we could have rented them if I had not been able to easily lay hands on the DVDs.

It is amazing how cohesive the series and movies are to each other. None of the actors were replaced or changed as is necessary in some series. The house seemed to stay exactly the same too, as if the family and servants continuously live there. That alone gives Downton Abbey a "real" feel, but the actors do such a great job of playing their roles, you actually believe they are real people and not just characters in a dramatization.

Downton Abbey fans await the release of the next movie, Downton Abbey 3, in Sept. 2025 and we have already been told our favorite characters will be played by the original actors. If you start watching the series now, you will be all caught up and familiar with the characters before the new movie is released.

Downton Abbey Series & Movies

Downton Abbey -On Amazon Prime VideoCheck PriceThis British historical TV drama started as a mini-series, but clearly fans could not get enough of Downton Abbey. The mini-series has been followed by 2 movies already and another is on the way.

The series revolves around the family of the Earl of Grantham, Robert Crawley (Hugh Bonneville). We meet the family, as well as the staff of Downton Abbey, in the first episode of 'season one' when a new heir is named after the sinking of the Titanic.

Robert Crawley knew the intended heir, his first cousin, James, all of his life but when James and his son, Patrick, died on the Titanic, an unknown third cousin once removed is next in line. No one ever expected both the heir and his son to die before Downton Abbey was passed to one of them. Viewers had never met either of those men, so it was easy for us to embrace Matthew Crawley as the heir apparent upon his arrival. He is such a unassuming individual and so easy to like that we rejoiced that he would be the next Earl of Grantham.

It seems unfair that all three of Robert Crawley's children would be passed over and displaced for a third cousin's son, but Robert's children are all females and the estate, as well as the title of Earl, are entailed to the next male heir.

The series does such a good job of developing each of the characters in the household, including the staff, that before the end of the first season, we feel they are part of our own family. There are some we don't especially like, but we love them regardless and realize the "family" would not be complete without them.

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If you have already watched the series, I would love to hear who you would name as your favorite character. If you have not watched it yet, please return and share you opinions after you watch the series.