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!

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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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The Convenient Groom - Hallmark Movie Review

Calling all Romantic Hallmark Movie Lovers!  This is a delightfully sweet and fun movie to watch.  

To be honest, I didn't expect much based on the description of this movie so I was very surprised to find a movie I really liked a lot.  I chose it solely because David Sutcliffe was one of the main actors.  I was not previously familiar with his co-star, Vanessa Marcil, but turns out, I really like her too.  She has a very easy smile, a lovely face and is a believable actress.  They make a very cute couple!

This movie was a very nice break for me.  I had stepped away from the romance movie genre this summer and started watching more of the mystery series movies.  I still had the final mystery episode in my mystery series to watch, but I was not in the mood for another murder today.  Thus, I sought out a pleasant romance.  

 

The Convenient Groom Synopsis

The Convenient Groom

Kate Lawrence, Ph.D is a popular dating advice video blogger with a book deal just around the corner.  The movie starts with her offering tips on how to spot the red flags in a relationship on her show, "Just ... No".  I laughed out loud when I heard her describe a "high maintenance" man.  

Any movie that can make me laugh in the first two minutes is almost guaranteed to be a winner!

Following her own advice, Kate has found her own perfect fiance, soon to be husband.  For those of us watching, we can easily spot the "red flags" in her relationship, but she naively chooses to ignore them because she wants a relationship without conflict.  No surprise when her fiance breaks up with her, leaving her to explain to her audience what just happened to her big announcement.  She is about to "air all" when an old friend steps in to save her day, and her job, by claiming to be her fiance.  She, and her entire crew, are surprised, but play along with him during the filming to keep from having a totally disastrous show.

Lucas Wright feels really bad for Kate when he overhears her fiance breaking off their engagement, admitting that he is seeing someone else.  When she slips away to gather her thoughts before continuing the filming, Lucas takes that moment to talk to her.  Because he really wants to help, he ends up stepping out during the filming and announcing that he is Kate's fiance.  Of course, the crowd goes wild!

Kate and Lucas are engaged, at least as far as everyone else is concerned.  The announcement day has been saved, but now what?  Her book deal is still up in the air and vendors are lining up to be chosen for their wedding day in a few months. Sort of, jumping from the frying pan into the fire scenario.

Okay, so you probably have it all figured out, but it is still a delightfully fun mess to watch! 

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A Walk in the Woods: A Five Star Movie Review

 

About the Storyline

"A Walk in the Woods" is a delightful story about two old friends who reconnect and challenge themselves as they hike the Appalachian Trail. 

Released in 2015, the story centers around Bill Bryson, played by Robert Redford, who, after spending years living a comfortable life as a writer, decides to hike the trail as a way to recapture some adventure in his life. 

Along for the ride is his old buddy Stephen Katz, played by Nick Nolte, who's not exactly in peak physical condition. What follows is a mix of beautiful scenery, humorous encounters, and a lot of reflection on life's choices.

The Stellar Cast

The movie is carried by the fantastic performances of Robert Redford and Nick Nolte.

Redford brings a subtle charm to the role of Bryson, perfectly portraying a man who's both wise and a bit weary of the world. 

Nolte's character, Katz, is the perfect counterbalance—gruff, out of shape, but full of heart. Their chemistry is undeniable, making their friendship feel authentic and relatable.

The supporting cast, including Emma Thompson as Bryson's wife, adds depth to the story, but Redford and Nolte steal the show.

Why I Liked This Movie

What I loved most about "A Walk in the Woods" is its emphasis on the possibility of meeting unfulfilled dreams and desires at any age, as long as we have the drive to do what's necessary. 

The movie made me feel hopeful about what we can accomplish, even later in life. It reminds us that it's always possible to go after what we want and that sometimes, the journey is just as important as the destination. 

I also enjoyed the humor, the challenges the characters faced, and the general clean, hopeful storyline. It's a film that leaves you feeling good and with a renewed sense of what's possible in life.

Here's a Look at the Movie Trailer:

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The Magic of Lemon Drops (2024) - Hallmark Movie Review

I'm not particularly fond of hard candy, but lemon is my favorite flavor, therefore The Magic of Lemon Drops was a must-see for me as soon as it was available to watch.

This is a cute movie about seeing what life would be like if the main character had made different decisions along the way.  That has been a popular movie and book theme for decades.  Each movie has a different "avenue" used to show alternate lives, but eating a magic lemon drop is pretty unique.

Since lemon meringue pies are one of my favorite desserts, showing them in the previews was another draw to this movie for me.  I would not have thought to decorate a lemon meringue pie, but Lolly and her mother decorate their lemon meringue pies with lemon drops.  The lemon drops look rather pretty nestled in the meringue topping.    

After seeing "The Magic of Lemon Drops", I doubt I will ever see another lemon drop without thinking of this movie.    

The Magic of Lemon Drops Synopsis

Lolly is rather frustrated by her humdrum life.  She had hoped for so much more, including owning her own restaurant where she could set the menu.  Instead, she works for her father in their family diner, which is the same thing she has always done.

She would have liked to have gotten married to her high school sweetheart, but she broke up with him when he chose to go to Duke University and she didn't want him to go.  That is one of her main regrets that seem to haunt her life.

Lolly is reminded of all of the things she wanted to do in her life when she and her sister come across her old scrapbook in their attic.  When her Aunt Gert offers her a way to see what her life could have been, it is an offer she cannot refuse.

Would her own restaurant have been the great success she had envisioned?

What would life have been like if her mom had not died?

And, what if she had married Rory?

 

I'm not going to tell you Lolly's final choice.  You will need to watch The Magic of Lemon Drops to find out. 

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Currently, The Magic of Lemon Drops is only available on the Hallmark Channel or on a streaming service that offers the Hallmark Channel movies (I watched it on Frndly TV, but is is also available on Peacock). 

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How One Stray Dog Changed Lives Forever - 5 Star Movie Review

The Storyline of Arthur The King

"Arthur The King," released in 2023, is a heartwarming movie based on a true story that will appeal to anyone who believes in the unbreakable bond between humans and animals. 

The plot centers around a Swedish adventure racer, Mikael Lindnord, who encounters a stray dog while competing in Ecuador's grueling 400-mile Adventure Racing World Championship. 

This isn't just any stray; this dog, later named Arthur, attaches himself to Mikael and his team, following them through harsh jungles, treacherous terrain, and even a perilous river.

The story is not just about an adventure race; it's a tale of unexpected companionship, resilience, and the power of kindness. As Arthur overcomes seemingly insurmountable odds alongside the team, the film takes us on a journey of hope, perseverance, and the transformative effect of compassion. 

It's a challenging and inspirational story that reminds us of the strength in our bonds, not just with each other but with every living creature.

The Talented Cast - Starring Mark Wahlberg

"Arthur The King" boasts an exceptional cast that brings this remarkable story to life. Mark Wahlberg stars as Mikael Lindnord, delivering a heartfelt performance that captures the spirit of a man unexpectedly finding a friend in the most unlikely of circumstances. 

Simu Liu plays a pivotal role as a teammate who initially questions the practicality of bringing a stray dog along but eventually becomes one of Arthur's biggest supporters.

Nathalie Emmanuel shines as the team medic whose gentle care for Arthur reflects the film's themes of empathy and kindness. 

The chemistry among the cast members is palpable, making their journey feel authentic and engaging. Each actor brings depth and warmth to their roles, ensuring that the audience is not just watching an adventure unfold but experiencing it alongside them. 

Their performances collectively contribute to the film's powerful message of friendship, determination, and joy from unexpected connections.

Why I Loved This Movie

I absolutely loved "Arthur the King" because it depicts a story almost too incredible to be true. 

This movie's portrayal of something so challenging and seemingly impossible truly resonates. Watching Arthur's unwavering determination to stay with his newfound friends through every obstacle is heartwarming and awe-inspiring. 

This movie leaves you with a deep sense of hope and a renewed belief in humanity's goodness. It's so moving that it compelled me to Google the real Arthur to learn more about this extraordinary dog and his incredible journey with Mikael and his team. 

The film's ability to evoke such emotions and curiosity is a testament to its powerful storytelling and the genuine nature of its characters. It's not just a movie; it's a reminder of the unyielding spirit that can be found in all of us and the animals we share our lives with.

About The Real Arthur

The Arthur Foundation

The real Arthur became much more than just a dog who followed a team in an adventure race; he became a symbol of hope and resilience. 

After being adopted by Mikael Lindnord, Arthur was involved in numerous charitable endeavors, helping to raise awareness and funds for animal welfare organizations worldwide. 

Arthur's story inspired countless people, leading to the establishment of the Arthur Foundation, which supports stray dogs and other animal-related causes. 

Sadly, Arthur passed away in 2020 due to complications from surgery. His death was a significant loss for all who followed his incredible story, but his legacy lives on. 

Arthur's journey from a stray dog in Ecuador to a global ambassador for animal welfare is a testament to what kindness and love can achieve. Even after his passing, his impact continues to inspire positive change. 

Visit Arthur's website for more information about him and his ongoing impact. Arthur's accomplishments and the positive change he championed make Arthur the King a movie worth watching and a story worth remembering and celebrating.

Here's a Preview of the Movie:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Watch Arthur The King on Prime, Where Available

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Roux The Day - Episode 5 of Gourmet Detective Series Review

I must say, I love the play on words for this title, Roux The Day.  Very clever title for "The Gourmet Detective" series and another murder mystery to solve.  I immediately thought of Louisiana and the popular base for Cajun and creole dishes.  Of course, roux is not exclusive to Louisiana, nor is French cuisine, but don't tell a Louisianian that or you might just find yourself in the midst of your own murder mystery.

In previous episodes of The Gourmet Detective, we have watched the relationship develop between Maggie and Henry, from their first meeting to their exclusive dating relationship.  We have enjoyed their bantering while solving crime related to murders committed in the culinary world.  We have been introduced to some very interesting recipes for death, as well as some unique uses of cookware.

In this episode, Detective Maggie Price and Henry Ross, the Gourmet Detective, are pulled into another murder case when they discover a body in an antique shop they are visiting. 

Yet again, another one of my own favorite pastimes, visiting antiques stores, is pulled into another fun mystery.  It might make me think twice about seeking out help if the store appears to be unattended.  

Do you know the difference in a cookbook and a Chef's book?  I didn't until I watched this movie.

 

Roux The Day Synopsis

 Roux the Day: A Gourmet Detective MysteryCheck Price Henry Ross has been commissioned to examine a recently discovered Chef's book from an extremely popular restaurant of bygone days.  The Chef's book disappeared along with the fabulous meals when the restaurant closed down.  Henry is to bid on the book at auction if he determines it to be authentic.  The value of the book may well exceed $20,000 and he is authorized to spend whatever is necessary to ensure it's purchase for his anonymous buyer.

He invites his girlfriend, Detective Maggie Price, to attend the charity auction with him.  Unfortunately, they are told that the Chef's book was sold earlier that day.  According to the auction organizer, she did not want to risk the handsome sum she was offered by allowing the Chef's book to be auctioned.  A most unusual decision since it had already been announced that the book would be up for auction.  Several interested individual's were in attendance and quite upset by the pre-sale of the book.

With a bit of sneaky detective work, Maggie discovers who purchased the book.  She and Henry immediately head over to the new owners antique store in hopes of acquiring the book.  Unfortunately, all they acquired was a new murder case when they discovered a body instead of a Chef's book.

 

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Roux The Day is the final episode of "The Gourmet Detective".  Hallmark has canceled the series.

"The Gourmet Detective" has truly been a delightfully fun Hallmark Mystery series to watch. I was quite sad to see that the series has been cancelled. What a shame that we never even made it to a wedding day, plus we have missed out on more "delectable" murder mysteries. I do hate it when Hallmark, or any production company, ends a series and just leaves fans hanging to create their own mental ending.   

Let's hope Hallmark doesn't rue the day they disappointed fans, once again, by cancelling a series we were not ready to see end!

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An Inspirational Movie With An Unexpected Magical Theme - Five Stars!

The Storyline

*The Healer*, a film released in 2017, is a beautiful and unexpected journey that intertwines the mystical with the mundane in the most heartwarming way. 

The story follows Alec Bailey, a man struggling with his life's direction, who discovers he may have the power to heal others. What starts as a reluctant acceptance of this gift soon evolves into a deeper exploration of faith, redemption, and the power of kindness. 

Though the storyline was unsurprising, it kept me engaged and added layers to the narrative I didn't expect. 

The film's pacing and the gradual unfolding of its plot left me feeling good.

The Talented Cast

The cast of *The Healer* is genuinely talented, bringing authenticity and warmth to their roles. 

Oliver Jackson-Cohen delivers a compelling performance as Alec, effortlessly capturing the character's initial cynicism and eventual transformation. 

An excellent ensemble, including the legendary Jonathan Pryce, supports him, who adds depth and wisdom to the story as Alec's uncle. 

The chemistry among the cast members is palpable, making the relationships on screen feel real and relatable. Their performances anchor the film, allowing the story's inspirational message to shine without feeling forced or overly sentimental.

Why I Love This Movie

What I love most about The Healer is its clean, character-driven story, which is both creative and inspirational. 

In a world where movies often rely on shock value or complex plots, this film stands out for its simplicity and heart. 

It's a movie that inspires without being preachy, and it's refreshing to watch something that is both uplifting and wholesome. 

The beauty of the setting, the goodness of the characters, and the overall positive message make *The Healer* a film I'll return to whenever I need a reminder of the power of kindness, possibility, and redemption.

Without hesitation, and if you're looking for something based on the possibility of the human spirit, don't hesitate to dive into this movie with popcorn in hand.

Here's a Preview:

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Eat, Drink and Be Buried - Episode 4 of Gourmet Detective Series Review

For the romantics who are watching, this may be your favorite movie in the series.  Detective Maggie Price and the Gourmet Detective, Henry Ross, are actually dating now.  In fact, it is rather funny to hear they are about to celebrate their 3rd month of dating as Maggie questions gift giving for the occasion.

For the mystery lovers, this episode has you covered too!  It may also be your favorite episode in the series since it is really hard to figure out the identity of the murderer.  The sibling issues created by a blended family makes almost everyone, except the father, a suspect.

Plus, a new character is added when Harry's father comes for a visit.  Many of us already feel a connection to Jim Ross because the part is played by Bruce Boxleitner.  We have watched this beloved veteran actor in several movies and popular TV series, which included Scarecrow and Mrs. King, where he played a spy.  Therefore, it is not a far stretch to see him play the part of a retired police officer in the Gourmet Detective.

 

Eat, Drink and Be Buried Synopsis

 Gourmet Detective: Eat, Drink and Be BuriedCheck Price

Henry is both a guest and menu consultant to create an authentic 1700's dinner for the event hosted by David Weston.   Of course, he takes Maggie as his date for the party.  What neither of them expect is to witness a murder and end up working as detectives.

During an authentic pistol duel reenactment between the brothers, one of them is really murdered because one of the pistols was loaded with real ammunition.  The surviving brother seems upset by the unexpected murder even though the two brothers were already "dueling" for their father's favor.  The dead brother's biological sister is also devastated.  However, both siblings are suspects, along with their other sister.  They are all employees of their father's company, as well as heirs.  The inheritance has just multiplied for each remaining sibling, therefore, they each had an incentive to murder.

As with all families, there is a lot of history as well as rivalries, and blended families don't always make a great mix.  But, murder is a bit extreme.

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You may also enjoy reading my review of the pilot movie, Gourmet Detective, here Or my reviews of episode 2, A Healthy Place to Die, here and episode 3, Death Al Dente, here!

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Eat, Drink and Be Buried - Episode 4 of Gourmet Detective Series Reviewed by:

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A Supernatural But Not Too Scary Time Shifting Ghost Movie - Five Star Review

The Storyline

From Time to Time is an intriguing blend of mystery, history, and the supernatural.

The movie follows a young boy named Tolly, who, during World War II, goes to live with his grandmother in a grand old English manor. 

Soon, he discovers that the house holds secrets from the past, and through a unique connection, he can slip between the present and the early 19th century. 

The story's clever and captivating weaving of two different timelines is a delight. As Tolly uncovers the mysteries surrounding his ancestors, he finds himself solving the puzzles of the past and coming to terms with his own family's history. 

The intricate plot keeps you guessing, while the historical details add depth and texture to the narrative.

The Cast

The film boasts a fantastic cast, bringing the story to life. 

Maggie Smith, as always, is a joy to watch. She portrays Tolly's grandmother with warmth and a hint of mystery, adding a sense of gravitas to the film and making her character both endearing and intriguing. 

Alex Etel plays Tolly, and he does a wonderful job conveying the curiosity and bravery of a boy caught between two worlds. 

The supporting cast, including Timothy Spall and Pauline Collins, adds depth and richness to the film, making it a truly engaging experience. Each actor brings something unique to their role, contributing to the movie's captivating ghost story.

Why I Enjoyed This Movie

From Time to Time captured my imagination with its time-shifting storyline and ghostly elements. 

I've always been fascinated by movies that play with time, and this one did it in a captivating and intriguing way. The transitions between the present and the past were seamless, adding a layer of curiosity that kept me hooked from start to finish. 

What I especially loved was that the movie wasn't overtly scary. While it is a ghost story, it's more mysterious than frightening, making the film feel like a period-piece adventure with twists and turns rather than a heart-jumping scary tale. 

It's a movie that perfectly balances drama, mystery, and the supernatural all wrapped up in one.

5 Stars - ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Check Out The Trailer:

You can watch "From Time to Time" on Prime, where available

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Death Al Dente - Episode 3 of Gourmet Detective Series Reviewed

Once again, Detective Maggie Price and her consultant, Henry Ross, investigate a restaurant related murder in the Hallmark Mystery Series, "Gourmet Detective".  Each episode is a stand-alone movie, but clearly we are also watching a relationship develop between Maggie and Henry throughout the series.

Henry Ross is a chef that has been dubbed the "Gourmet Detective" due to his excellent observation skills.  Previously, he helped the detectives when he witnessed a murder and proved quite knowledgeable about food poisoning, as well as the people in the restaurant industry.  He is now an "official" consultant to the homicide department.

Henry is not too thrilled when one of Maggie's ex-boyfriends, who also happens to be a detective, shows up on the current crime scene.  It is obvious Detective Steve Miller would like to rekindle their relationship and Maggie seems somewhat receptive to the idea.  After all, they have known each other since their college days and he was also there to help her through the difficult times that followed her divorce.  

Part of the fun of watching this series, is watching the expressions on all of the other actors faces.  They do an excellent job of showing their thoughts without saying anything. 

Maggie talks to Steve as Munro, Bailey & Henry watch the interaction

  

Death Al Dente Movie Synopsis

Death al Dente: A Gourmet Detective Mystery

Restaurant owner, Leo Triviano, was first attacked by an intruder in his kitchen pantry.  A week later, he survived being shot, but was later murdered in the hospital.  Of course, his longtime friend, Henry Ross, wants to find the killer.

Henry knew Leo had a problem with his head chef, Mateo Durand, which would make him suspect #1 in Henry's opinion.  However, that certainly would not explain the first intruder encounter since Mateo would always have access to the kitchen pantry.  And, exactly what was the intruder looking for in the pantry?

When a letter is found in the shredder, it seems it must be related to the murder.  Otherwise, why would anyone destroy an old letter.  Once the letter is put back together, it is still not clear until they realize there must be something important hidden in the words of the letter.

The investigation leads them to some surprising discoveries and suspects.  Just how many secrets did this family have? 

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You may also enjoy reading my review of the pilot movie, Gourmet Detective, here Or my review of episode 2, A Healthy Place to Die, here!

Check Out More Movie Reviews at
ReviewThisMovies.com

Death Al Dente - Episode 3 of Gourmet Detective Series Reviewed by:

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

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