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

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.”

FOLLOW US ON:

The Truth About the Devlins - Book Review

 

A new novel by best-selling author Lisa Scottoline

Meet the Devlins. A wealthy and successful family of lawyers with a wayward son. Then a possible murder occurs (or does it?), and John, the good son, may be involved. Is the family hiding secrets, even from themselves?

Synopsis of The Truth About the Devlins

The Truth about the Devlins

The story mainly revolves around TJ Devlin, the son who is the charming disappointment in the prominent Devlin family of lawyers who work together in a highly successful firm.  TJ never finished college, much less became a lawyer. Instead, alcoholism caused his downfall and even a stint in prison. Now he’s out on parole and in rehab for alcoholism. Since TJ can’t get hired anywhere except at the firm, the family has him doing a make-work job with the title of investigator.

But then one night, the firstborn and most successful son, John, confesses to TJ that he thinks he just murdered one of the firm’s clients, an accountant he had confronted with proof of embezzlement. 

TJ immediately begins an investigation, seizing the chance to prove his worth and save his brother. But in no time, TJ and John find themselves entangled in a lethal web of deception and murder. TJ will fight to save his family, but what he learns might break them first.

Summary

I have long been a fan of author Lisa Scottoline and over the years have followed her successful series of legal thrillers/suspenseful women sleuth mysteries about a group of women who are partners in a law firm in Philadelphia. Scottoline’s series of Rosato & Associates is a favorite of mine.

In recent years, Scottoline has begun writing stand alone domestic and psychological thrillers. As the #1 bestselling author of What Happened to the Bennetts, she presents another pulse-pounding domestic thriller with The Truth About the Devlins, about family, justice, and the lies that tear us apart.

*Book Review of The Truth About the Devlins written by Wednesday Elf

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.”

FOLLOW US ON:

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.

 

---

 

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!

Check Out More Movie Reviews at

ReviewThisMovies.com

Roux The Day - Episode 5 of Gourmet Detective Series Reviewed by:

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.”

FOLLOW US ON:

Play-Doh's Jake and the Never Land Pirates Playset Reviewed

Jake and the Never Land Pirates is an animated preschool child’s television series that was produced by Disney Junior and aired between the years of 2011 and 2016. The storyline took inspiration from Walt Disney and J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan story. It tells tales of the three main pirate characters - Jake, Izzy, Cubby - and of a parrot named Skully who together search for treasure and find themselves competing with Captain Hook, Mr. Smee, Sharky and Bones.

SERIES TRAILER

Here’s a peek at the show:

SHOW SUCCESS

The show was successful with the little boy audience it was aimed at and Common Sense Media says, “The program is full of good social messages about solving problems, being a good friend and appreciating individuality. It also includes basic academic skills like counting and sorting and involves kids with music and humor.”

SHOW TOYS

There was a high demand for toys for the series and in 2013, Play-Doh issued the play set shown here for fans of the show aged 3 and up. It is perfect for pirate-themed creative play whether it is inspired from the program Jake and the Never Land Pirates or from your child’s imagination.

SET CONTENTS  

The set comes complete with two stamps, a press in the form of a canon, a treasure chest shaper, a crocodile cutter and three containers of Play-Doh. Please be aware that retired sets have old Play-Doh in them and you may have to replace the modelling compound, which is easily and affordably done at your local toy store.

WHERE TO FIND YOUR SET

There was also another set for this series, a Toys R Us exclusive, called Pirate Ship. However, both of these sets have long been discontinued, which makes them somewhat hard to find. I recommend searching for Play-Doh's Jake and the Never Land sets here on eBay.

See you at the toy store!

Brenda
Treasures By Brenda

MORE PLAY-DOH

Retired, new, used and vintage Play-Doh sets in my eBay store.

Play-Doh’s Airplane Explorer Play Set.

 
Play-Doh's Classic Medical Clinic Doctor or Operation-Themed Set.

Play-Doh’s Campfire Picnic Set.

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.”

FOLLOW US ON:

DRMTLY TINGL Exfoliating Pads — The Best Affordable AHA/BHA Peel Pads

Our skin is the body's largest organ and the one most exposed to environmental stressors. It's no wonder it's one of the first places to show the signs of aging as we get older. Fortunately, no matter your age, good skincare can make an enormous difference in the appearance and health of your skin.

Facial exfoliation can help us achieve smoother, clearer, brighter, more youthful complexion. Physical exfoliation methods use either tools (such as a washcloth or exfoliating sponge) or facial cleansers or masks containing very small granules or spheres (such as sugar crystals, microbeads, or ground seeds) to physically slough off dead skin cells from the topmost layer of the epidermis. Chemical exfoliation uses one or more topical acids — alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and/or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) to weaken the bonds that hold the dead skin cells on the surface and allow them to slough away easily during cleansing.

I have used both physical and chemical facial exfoliation products at a wide range of prices. Today, I'm sharing my favorite affordable, high-quality chemical exfoliating product, the TINGL exfoliating peed pads from DRMTLGY, one of my favorite reasonably priced skincare brands. In future reviews, I will also share my favorite affordable physical exfoliation skincare products.

DRMTLGY TINGL Exfoliating Pads are provide a convenient and effective solution for at-home facial exfoliation. These pads smooth and brighten the skin, minimize pores, and improve overall skin texture, helping to revitalize the complexion.

What Types of Skin Concerns Do These Exfoliating Peel Pads Target?

DRMTLGY TINGL Exfoliating Pads are suitable for all skin types.

They help reduce the appearance of pore size and create a smoother looking skin texture by unclogging pores 

Key Ingredients

A combination of glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids, botanical and fruit extracts, and humectants make these AHA/BHA exfoliating peel pads extremely effective but also gentle on the skin.

Glycolic acid is a powerful alpha-hydroxy acid that helps exfoliate the skin by breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells, allowing them to be sloughed away. This ingredient is known for its ability to brighten the skin, improve texture, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Lactic acid is another AHA that gently exfoliates the skin while providing hydration. It helps improve skin texture and tone without being too harsh, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.

Salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) that penetrates deep into the pores to remove excess oil and debris, making it especially beneficial for those with oily or acne-prone skin. It helps reduce the appearance of pores and prevents future breakouts.

Other notable ingredients include grapefruit peel extract and cucumber fruit extract (antioxidants), chamomile flower extract (anti-inflammatory), aloe extract (soothing, humectant, and antioxidant), and glycerin and beta glucan, humectants that add moisture to the skin, ensuring that the exfoliation process does not leave the skin feeling dry or tight. These humectants can also improve the skin texture, strengthen the barrier function and enhance the penetration of other ingredients.

Textured Surface

These DRMTLGY TINGL exfoliating pads also have a waffle-patterned, textured surface that helps provide a light, gentle physical exfoliation as well as a chemical one, helping to lift off the loosened, dead skin cells on the outermost layer of the epidermis.

How Well Do They Work?

As you might expect from the name, DRMTLGY TINGL Exfoliating Pads create a tingling sensation that indicates that the alpha-hydroxy and beta-hydroxy acids are working to exfoliate the skin. Since I started using them consistently report that with consistent use, their skin feels smoother, looks brighter, and has a more refined texture. The combination of AHAs and BHAs helps target multiple skin concerns, such as dullness, uneven texture, and enlarged pores. Also, even though I am not generally acne-prone, I find that blemishes are rare since I started exfoliating regularly with these peel pads.

While I can attribute some of my youthful appearance to good genes, my 70-year-old skin looks much better and more youthful today than it did five years ago, when I started getting serious about following a good skincare routine.

Me one month after my 70th birthday

Gentle, Yet Effective

For women and men with mature skin, these pads offer a great way to incorporate both chemical exfoliation and very light physical exfoliation into a skincare routine in one simple, quick and easy step. The presence of beta glucan helps counteract any potential dryness from the acids, making the pads gentle enough for daily use.

Key Benefits

Effective Exfoliation: The combination of glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids and the textured pads provide gentle yet thorough exfoliation, removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover for clearer, smoother skin and a brighter, more even skin tone.

Multi-Benefit Formula: In addition to exfoliating, the pads also hydrate and brighten the skin, offering a comprehensive skincare treatment.

Improves Skin Texture: Regular use can lead to noticeably smoother, softer, younger-looking skin, with reduced pore size and less noticeable fine lines.

Quick and Simple to Use: The pre-soaked pads are a quick and easy addition that can enhance your existing skincare routine.

Made in the USA With High Quality Ingredients: These dermatologist-recommended facial peel pads are paraben-free, sulfate-free, cruelty-free, gluten-free, and fragrance-free.

Usage Tips

If your skin barrier is healthy and your skin tolerates AHAs and BHAs well, you can use these as often as twice daily, depending on your skin type and needs.

However, if your skin is extremely sensitive or you have rosacea, these peel pads may be a bit too intense for you. I recommend trying one package and starting slowly, maybe once a week, to see how your skin tolerates it. If that works for you, you can slowly increase the frequency, as tolerated.

After cleansing your face and patting it dry, remove one DRMTLY TINGL exfoliating pad from the jar and immediately close the jar tightly to prevent the remaining pads from drying out.

Wipe the peel pad over your face in circular motions. Avoiding contact with the eye area and the lips. 

Do not scrub! Scrubbing can damage your skin barrier and irritate your skin. If used properly, the pads will provide a gradual, safe exfoliation with consistent, regular use. 

IMPORTANT: When using these pads in the morning, after exfoliating your skin and applying the rest of your skincare, ALWAYS USE A BROAD-SPECTRUM SUNSCREEN with an SPF of 30 or higher, regardless of the weather! Exfoliating acids increase sensitivity to the sun's rays.

A Great Addition to Any Skincare Routine

The DRMTLGY TINGL Exfoliating Pads are a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their skincare routine with a chemical exfoliation product that is both gentle and effective. With consistent use, these pads can help reveal a more youthful, radiant complexion, making them a valuable addition to any skincare regimen, particularly for those looking to address signs of aging.

 DRMTLGY TINGL Face and Body Exfoliator Pads - Anti Aging Acne Treatment with Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, and Salicylic Acid - Pore Minimizer, Oil Cleanser, Blackhead Remover and Skin ExfoliatorCheck Price

DRMTLY TINGL Exfoliating Pads — The Best Affordable AHA/BHA Peel Pads by Margaret Schindel

Read More Beauty Reviews by Our Review This Reviews Contributors

Read More Product Reviews by Our Review This Reviews Contributors

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.”

FOLLOW US ON:

Reviewing Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes

Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes photo by Lou16

When my daughter was younger we had quite a selection of Baby Einstein videos and I would play her one a day, they were amazing. Now that said daughter has a baby of her own we introduced him to Baby Einstein via YouTube and he loves it. 

I decided to get him a couple of toys featured in the video he likes, but then I saw the Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes and it has become one of his favourites (tying with the Baby Einstein star).

When he has tummy time he loves looking at it as it's playing music and as he's about to teeth he really likes pushing the rings into his mouth and biting down on them. When we take him in the car it is a really handy toy to have as it's easy for him to hold and as he brings it up to his face he (accidently) turns the music on himself.

For reference, my grandson was 5 months old when we introduced this toy, and he has been playing with it for a few weeks. I see it says from 3 months, but I'm not sure that he would've enjoyed it so much at 3 months, maybe from 4.5 months.

There's a total of 10 different melodies that play with Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes and the toy lights up in time to the music when it plays which my grandson is mesmerised by. One of the things I love about the melodies that Baby Einstein uses is that they are based on classical music like Beethoven, Bach and Mozart along with traditional rhymes.

It requires 2 AA batteries and can also be turned off when baby's not playing with it. It also has two volume levels.

It's recommended that you wipe it clean with a damp cloth and mild soap, but we just use a disinfectant wipe after our grandson has left for the day.

This gets a big thumbs up from baby, Nanny & Grandad - I think mum and dad might invest in one for when he's at home as well.

Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes from Amazon

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.”

FOLLOW US ON:

Lily's Toaster Grills Review

Admittedly I was skeptical. Lily's Toaster Grills removed my skepticism that a grilled cheese sandwich could be frozen successfully!

Taste

The Toaster Grill tasted very very close to the old school type of grilled cheese we find in area Deli's or Coney Islands. American Cheese and white bread where the cheese is melted (but not too much), the bread is toasted (but not too much) and the consistency is just perfect to dip into a cup of tomato soup.

This is not, repeat not, the gourmet grilled cheese on Artisan bread with three types of cheeses. Those are indeed wonderful as well, but the Toaster Grill is not in that lane nor does it advertise to be.

Convenient Comfort Food

So convenient and so incredibly easy to make. Simply put the Toaster Grill in the microwave for 30 seconds then into the toaster for one round of toasting. I understand the worry that the sandwich may leak cheese in the toaster; but I have not found that to happen.

But wait, how hard it is to cook a grilled cheese? That can be subjective indeed. The Toaster Grill is very convenient which is one of its' best features and in about one minute a consistent grilled cheese is delivered.

Where To Purchase?

The American Cheese Toaster Grills are available in my urban area at brand name grocery stores and Costco. The Costco packaging is in bulk and less costly than the grocery store. 

Recommendation

I have not met a grilled cheese fan yet who does not agree the Toaster Grills are the closest frozen equivalent to a fresh grilled cheese sandwich.

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.”

FOLLOW US ON:

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:

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.”

FOLLOW US ON: