Friday, August 15, 2025

🌟 Your Cozy Weekend Summer Movie Guide: From the Heart to the Island & Mystery Buzz




Happy Mid-August Weekend, Friends!

Enjoy a cozy weekend of fresh stories and familiar faces!

Great American Family is premiering to their channel for the first time the heartfelt film, "A Thread to Your Heart," and I’ve shared my review below so you’ll know exactly why this love story is worth falling for.

Over on the Hallmark Channel, adventure awaits with a dash of mystery in "Mystery Island: Play for Keeps," the latest chapter in their tropical whodunit series.

Whether you’re in the mood for romance or a little intrigue, there’s something special waiting for everyone this weekend.

One more thing...

Are you dreaming of a little Christmas in August? Friday night’s line-up delivers several wonderful Christmas movie options, plus two fan-favorite actors whose on-screen chemistry has made them a beloved duo. And, at the end of this post, there’s a special note about a certain mystery series fans can’t stop talking about!!!

Keep scrolling for more details...



**********************



Friday, August 15, 2025:


Friday night's line-up includes two favorite stars: Jill Wagner and Kristoffer Polaha. Plus, I've included a special note at the end of this post on their mystery series, Mystery 101.

Friday, August 15, 2025:

Next Stop, Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 6pm
Destined 2: Christmas Once More ... Great American Family ... 6pm
A Biltmore Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 8pm
My Christmas Hero ... Great American Family ... 8pm
A Christmas Miracle for Daisy ... Great American Family ... 10pm
Destined 2: Christmas Once More ... Great American Family ... 12am
My Christmas Hero Great American Family ... 2am
A Christmas Miracle for Daisy ... Great American Family ... 4am


Want more Christmas... check out the Christmas TV Schedule.


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Saturday, August 16, 2025:




Storyline: The owner of a quaint New Zealand yarn shop, Sophie Dale, gets her world flipped upside down after learning her top supplier of yarn, King Farms, is stopping production. Much to her surprise, the charming yet stuck-in-his-ways Samuel King has traveled all the way from New York to audit the business model of the farm. Desperate to keep her shop going, Sophie convinces Samuel to give her two weeks to learn the ropes of yarn spinning and raise enough money to buy the mill herself. With Samuel’s help, Sophie comes up with a fundraising plan to host a “knit-off” and auction at the local makers market. However, when the two weeks come to an end Sophie finds herself at the crossroads of business and romance. Could she have misinterpreted Samuels growing romantic interest in her as just business all along?

Movie Review:

🎬 The setting of this story is in New Zealand - and the countryside there is absolutely beautiful. Breathtaking! The owner of the local yarn shop, Sophie, is quite likeable; she's an American who inherited the shop from her late Grandmother. Sophie brings many people of the town together to knit and enjoy time sharing, along with her best friend, Rose, who is a lot of fun. Everything seems tranquil for Sophie, until she knits a sweater for her boyfriend, Chris. Everyone in the knitting group teases that "it's the curse of the knitted sweater" and they predict in a joking way that she and Chris will surely break up. They actually do, but Sophie has more important things to worry about - she must save the local mill where she gets her yarn and convince the owner's handsome son, Samuel King, who is visiting from New York, to sell it to her before he leaves. The lambs in the movie are all sooo adorable - you'll instantly fall in love with them. At times, the movie can be a bit predictable and cheesy, but it's still a sweet family friendly story, and I personally enjoyed watching it. Even the knitted sweater gets redemption in the end. If you know someone who likes knitting, then this is most definitely THE MOVIE for them. ~Net


Premieres Saturday, August 16, 2025
at 9pm/8c. on Great American Family


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Sunday, August 17, 2025:




Storyline: Mystery Island hosts a corporate retreat with a guest being Emilia's ex-fiancΓ©. Old feelings become complicated, tensions run high, and allegations arise when a guest is found dead.

Premieres Sunday, August 17, 2025
at 9pm/8c. on the Hallmark Channel


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And now for the mystery news...

Throughout this week, the Hallmark Mystery channel has been airing mini-marathons of the Mystery 101 series, starring Jill Wagner and Kristoffer Polaha, which isn't that unusual. However, on social media, it has become standard for Hallmark to only show pictures of Kristoffer when promoting the series, and never any promos with Jill. Well, that changed yesterday, and fans definitely noticed.



Before we get to that, let's take a step back - for a minute.



As the series ran throughout the week, fans took to social media once again with messages like:

⬤ Bring this back!! We need closure! πŸ‘ - sammyjones57

⬤ I miss these movies so much😭 can‘t understand why they canceled them… - julssss95

⬤ Y’all left us on a real cliffhanger. I fear I’ll never get over it - omarlieee

⬤ Looooove this series. Bring it baaaaaaaaack. 😭 - bendieshome



You get the picture. Comments like this continued on and on for several days... all under pictures of Kristoffer Polaha. In one picture (seen above) he is running after a suspect and looking quite dashing and in the other pic, he is simply carrying a file of papers under his arm while investigating one of the cases.

So, what happened yesterday, you might ask??? Well, Hallmark Mystery posted to their socials an actual video promo of one of the previous Mystery 101 movies, and yes, the video showed Jill Wagner!!!! And, as I said, fans, including myself, noticed right away. One fan wrote, "You actually showed Jill? Wow!"

And not only did fans notice, but Kristoffer Polaha noticed, too!!!




Here's what Kristoffer wrote under the post:

⬤ polahaha: Looks like Amy is back in the case with Travis…

How funny would it be if after all this time we finally got some closure?



Here are some of the random responses:

⬤ please!!!!! You two are my favorites! ❤️❤️ - joynoelle

⬤ You're killing me, Smalls! But yes, please!! - bendieshome

⬤ DON'T TOY WITH ME, KRISTOFFER! (All caps means shouting, yes, but it is a hopeful shout!) - kelli_b_83

⬤ I hope you’re coming out with more episodes! The series was abruptly ended on a huge cliffhanger!! It was extremely disappointing! It would be appreciated if you provided closure to Amy and Travis’ storyline. - kelly_stel1

⬤ Could this be a clue @polahaha AKA Detective Travis!!! πŸ”ŽπŸ”Ž - itsawonderfulmovieblog

⬤ @hallmarkchannel, you are killing us! 😭 You’re running the mystery marathon back-to-back, but there was never an ending to the storyline. We were all waiting, and then the show wasn’t renewed. So after I watch this again, I’ll still be left wondering what happened… The least you can do is give us an ending. We promise we won’t bother you about this again. - hallmarkluv

⬤ More of these please - heartiesteamnathan

⬤ PLEASE...give us back our favorite mystery series, and our favorite crime solving duo!! Ratings would skyrocket and faith in hallmark would definitely be restored SO much!!! - tonyahoward258


And there are many, many more comments just like this!!! 

So, what's your take? Have you given up hope on "Mystery 101" or does this give any of you sleuthers a sliver of hope that this series could return one day, especially now with Michelle Vicary back as head of programming at Hallmark? Please share in comments below.


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Have a great weekend, everyone!

Enjoy these warm Summer days. Sometimes you've got to just stop and smell the roses!


Blessings to you all,
Net


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SHINING HIS LIGHT:

"The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands."
PSALM 19:1

This weekend's scripture inspiration:

Our local meteorologist said we would have a meteor shower this week, so I stared up at the stars for a little while. Unfortunately, I never caught the shower of stars (perhaps, too much outdoor lighting around), but I did marvel at the Creator of our universe and how beautiful each star in the sky is, the work of His mighty hands. I stood in awe and amazement at how great our God truly is!!! 🌟🌟🌟

And since this weekend's movie on GAF is about sheep, I just had to include these sriptures, too...

"What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off?

And if he finds it, truly I tell you, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off.

In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish."

MATTHEW 18:12-14

Isn’t it amazing to know how deeply God treasures each person, and how far He will go to bring them back to Him? He would leave the 99 to come and rescue you or me!

May your weekend fill you with that same awe-struck wonder I had while staring at the stars... Enjoy the little moments! God bless!!!
🌟


Thursday, August 14, 2025

πŸŽ„✨ Ash Tsai, Marshall Williams & Julia Reilly Star in a Heartwarming Holiday Tale, “A Belle Christmas,” on Great American Family


( Photo credit: Great American Media 2025 ) 

The latest Christmas movie news from Great American Family has arrived! Let's welcome their brand-new holiday film, “A Belle Christmas”!

Below, you’ll find all the merry details straight from the official Great American Media press release, and don’t stop there! At the end of this post, I’ve sprinkled in some heartwarming reactions from GAF fans on social media. So keep on scrolling, and be sure to share your thoughts, too, in the comments below!
 


Great American Media Press Release:

Great American Media
Announces A Belle Christmas
New, Original Movie,
Starring Ash Tsai,
Marshall Williams,
and Julia Reilly,
Premiering on
Great American Family,
Streaming on
Great American Pure Flix,
Premiering on GFam+,
Part of 5th Anniversary
of Great American Christmas

NEW YORK, NY – August 14, 2025 – Great American Media announced production is underway for the new, Original Movie, A Belle Christmas, starring Ash Tsai (Journey to Christmas), Marshall Williams (Jingle Bell Jubilee, “Glee”), and Julia Reilly (“County Rescue”). This film is currently being shot at Great Point Studios in Buffalo, New York, and is set to premiere as part of the 5th Anniversary of GREAT AMERICAN CHRISTMAS in 2025. The beloved programming event will begin airing in October on Great American Family, GFAM+, and streaming on Great American Pure Flix. A Belle Christmas joins a new, all-star lineup for Great American Christmas 2025, celebrating faith, family, love, joy, and hope. Christmas as it is meant to be.

In A Belle Christmas, Belle Carter (Tsai), dedicated but exhausted head of beloved local nonprofit, Bedford House, has devoted her whole life to making Christmas bright for those in need. But with the holidays just days away, donations are down, time is running out, and Belle feels her efforts are slipping away. When the town’s Mayor announces a new nonprofit consultant, Clara James (Reilly) will be joining Belle to help, Belle fears she’s being replaced in the role that has defined her for years. Annoyed at first, Belle unexpectedly finds space for joy she has long ignored. The season brings another surprise: the return of Marine Sgt. Will Mattinson (Williams) who is welcomed home from military service. As old feelings stir, Belle struggles to release responsibility and open her heart to possibility. With Christmas fast approaching and the community’s hopes hanging in the balance, Belle discovers believing in the best of people is the greatest gift of all.

A Belle Christmas is A Belle Christmas production. Tom Vitale and Bob Rich are executive producers. Mac Cappuccino produces. Oliver Friedman directs from an Original Screenplay by Summer Israel Johnson.

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN MEDIA

Great American Media is home to a family-friendly portfolio of brands including Great American Family, Great American Pure Flix and Great American Faith & Living. As the flagship linear TV network, Great American Family features original Christmas movies, rom-coms and classic series that celebrate faith, family and country. Great American Pure Flix is a leading faith and family streaming service that inspires, uplifts and entertains with content that you can confidently stream with the entire family. Other platforms include, Great American Faith & Living, the unscripted companion to Great American Family that celebrates faith, family, and country every day and every season; Great American Adventures and Pure Flix TV, FAST channels (free ad-supporting streaming TV). Great American Media was established in June 2021 by Bill Abbott and a group of US-based family offices.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Pam Slay
Network Program Publicity & Talent Relations
818.415.3784
pamslay@gacmedia.com
media@crosswindpr.com



-------------------------


Social Media Reaction:

"Getting so excited to see all the new movies. GAF is my go to❤️πŸ™ Thanks for the best family and Christ centered tv❤️" - Janice (Facebook)

"Love all 3 Actors. Cannot wait to watch this. I am sure it will be another one of my favorites" - Annette (Facebook)

"Awesome. Looking forward to all the new movies ❤️ thank you GAF" - Julie (Facebook)

"So excited!" - actingash (Ash Tsai on Instagram)

"Awesome. I was wondering if @actingash would be doing another Christmas movie. She's becoming one of my new favorite actresses in recent yrs. I think she going be up there in the Jen Lilley, Danica, Candace" - jeff85owens15 (Instagram)

"Can’t wait" - juliagracereilly (Instagram)

"Can't wait to see this one, too! I'm really hoping @juliagracereilly will get to be the leading lady in a movie in 2026." - morelikeahopefulromantic (Instagram)

"More great news from GAF! I am counting down to Great American Christmas 2025!" - blessedgigi23 (Instagram)

"Great cast! This looks like a wonderful Christmas movie! I love that this story will honor our military and giving to those in need!πŸŽ„✨❤️🎬 Thank you @greatamericanfamily for celebrating the true ❤️ of Christmas!!!" πŸŽ„ - itsawonderfulmovieblog (Instagram)

----------------


And now I'd love to hear from you! Please share your thoughts on this movie or Great American Christmas in comments below!

Have a Blessed Day!
Net


Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Another Great American Family Christmas Movie Announcement is Coming...


( click here to enlarge image )



Great American Family has posted a new Christmas movie tease to their socials today, which promises another reveal coming tomorrow!

Do you recognize the Great American Family stars featured in the video below?

Watch the clip, and then read on for everything we know so far from this sneak peek…






So... do you recognize all three stars seen in this video?

The first actress featured is Julia Reilly, who you may remember from Great American Family's "County Rescue" and A Little Women's Christmas.

Next is Ash Tsai, who has starred in two GAF Christmas movies, Journey to Christmas and Tails of Christmas.

And the clip ends with Actor Marshall Williams, of "When Hope Calls" Season One and Jingle Bell Jubilee.

According to IMDB, the name of this movie is A Belle Christmas, and Ash Tsai is playing the role of Belle. The cast is currently filming in Buffalo, New York.

Stay tuned for more details!
Have a Merry Day,
Net


image credit: Medium, IMDB, and itsmarshallw.com


Tuesday, August 12, 2025

πŸ”” "Do You Hear What I Hear? πŸ”” Jon McLaren and Alicia Josipovic to Star in Great American Family's "Christmas in Midnight Clear"


( Photo: Courtesy of Great American Media 2025 )


 * Christmas Movie revealed! *

Actor Jon McLaren will star in Christmas in Midnight Clear with Mystery By the Book actress Alicia Josipovic.

Get the full details on this new film, which celebrates faith, family, and love in the press release below...



Great American Media
Announces 
Christmas in Midnight Clear,
New, Original Movie,
Starring Alicia Josipovic 
and Jon McLaren,
Stream on 
Great American Pure Flix,
Premieres on
Great American Family
and GFam+,
Part of 5th Anniversary
of Great American Christmas

NEW YORK, NY – August 12, 2025 – Great American Media announced production is underway for the new, Original Movie, Christmas in Midnight Clear, starring Alicia Josipovic (“Degrassi: The Next Generation,” Mystery by the Book) and Jon McLaren (“Crossroad Springs,” “When Hope Calls”).

This film is currently in production and is set to premiere as part of the 5th Anniversary of GREAT AMERICAN CHRISTMAS in 2025. The beloved programming event will begin airing in October on Great American Family and GFAM+ and streaming on Great American Pure Flix.

Christmas in Midnight Clear joins a new, all-star lineup for Great American Christmas 2025, celebrating faith, family, love, joy, and hope. Christmas as it is meant to be.

In Christmas in Midnight Clear, Hillary Shaw (Dea Josipovic), successful corporate real estate developer, arrives in the economically struggling town with decisive plans to acquire every possible property, declare the rest eminent domain, and to modernize the town from the inside out. But when Hillary encounters Daniel Porter (McLaren), local pastor and multi-generational pillar of the community, her vision faces more than legal challenges. As Hillary and Daniel’s worldviews spark conflict, something deeper begins to blossom.

Christmas in Midnight Clear is a Midnight Clear Production. Suzanne Degagne and William Tom Fielek are executive producers. Anthony Fankhauser is producer. Nicholas Humphries directs an Original teleplay by Riley Weston.

ABOUT GREAT AMERICAN MEDIA
Great American Media is home to a family-friendly portfolio of brands including Great American Family, Great American Pure Flix and Great American Faith & Living. As the flagship linear TV network, Great American Family features original Christmas movies, rom-coms and classic series that celebrate faith, family and country. Great American Pure Flix is a leading faith and family streaming service that inspires, uplifts and entertains with content that you can confidently stream with the entire family. Other platforms include, Great American Faith & Living, the unscripted companion to Great American Family that celebrates faith, family, and country every day and every season; Great American Adventures and Pure Flix TV, FAST channels (free ad-supporting streaming TV). Great American Media was established in June 2021 by Bill Abbott and a group of US-based family offices.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Pam Slay
Network Program Publicity & Talent Relations
818.415.3784
pamslay@gacmedia.com
media@crosswindpr.com


------------------



My Quick Take:

I’m really looking forward to seeing Jon McLaren in a Christmas movie on Great American Family this year, especially with him portraying a pastor. What a meaningful character for the Christmas season.

This is Jon's first lead role on Great American Family; he previously starred in the UPtv Christmas movie, Sappy Holiday and had supporting roles in Christmas on Windmill Way, The Great Christmas Switch, Double Holiday, etc...

I truly appreciate how GAF is continuing to share more stories that reflect faith and family values during the holidays. It’s refreshing to see more and more of that kind of programming.

Also, this is third Christmas movie announced for GAF that stars someone from the cast of "When Hope Calls." I must say, I'm still hoping for more news on that series soon!

And don't forget... Be sure to look for Jon McLaren in "Crossroad Springs," premiering on Great American Family - Saturday, August 30th.


May Your Day 
Be Merry & Bright!
Net


Monday, August 11, 2025

πŸŽ„πŸͺ Great American Family Teases New Christmas Movie Starring "When Hope Calls" Actor, Jon McLaren




More Fun Christmas Movie News!πŸŽ„

Great American Family just shared a festive little tease on social media, a video clip featuring "When Hope Calls" star Jon McLaren chatting with a mystery actress (only seen from the side!) as they talk about… making Christmas cookies! πŸͺ✨

Here's the scene...



Who is the actress? And what holiday magic might be baking behind the scenes?

Well, the actress’s name and the movie title have been spotted on a production website… but I’m not spoiling the surprise before Great American Family’s official press release drops.

Do you have any guesses on who the actress might be? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

The photo at the top is from Jon McLaren’s very first day on set for this Christmas movie- snapped from his (now automatically deleted) Instagram stories on Friday.


Have a Merry Day!
Net


πŸŽΈπŸŽ„"A Grand Ole Opry Christmas" - Hallmark Channel’s New *Countdown to Christmas* Movie is in Perfect Harmony with Nikki DeLoach, Kristoffer Polaha & Country Singer, Brad Paisley




Hallmark heads to the Grand Ole Opry for a Magical, Musical Christmas Story this holiday season!

The Hallmark Channel is bringing nostalgia, time-travel, and country music to *Countdown to Christmas* this year with "A Grand Ole Opry Christmas," a brand-new Christmas movie starring Nikki DeLoach and Kristoffer Polaha!

The story follows Gentry Woods (played by Nikki DeLoach), the daughter of late country music legend Jett Woods. Once an aspiring songwriter herself, Gentry walked away from the music world after her father’s tragic car accident thirty years ago. But when the Grand Ole Opry invites her to honor her father at its centennial Christmas celebration, an unexpected twist of Christmas magic transports her back to 1995.

In the past, she crosses paths with her best friend Mac (played by Kristoffer Polaha), a country music talent manager who is also swept back in time. Together, they face old wounds, rediscover lost dreams, and uncover long-buried truths about Gentry’s father, finding healing and hope in the process.

Adding even more star power, country superstar Brad Paisley is writing and performing original songs for the film, including the theme for this year’s *Countdown to Christmas*.

Hallmark’s Chief Brand Officer Darren Abbott calls the project a perfect pairing of heartfelt storytelling with the Opry’s 100th anniversary, and filming will take place in real Opry locations to give the movie an authentic Nashville feel.

With this amazing cast and storyline, "A Grand Ole Opry Christmas" promises to strike all the right chords this Christmas!



Check out the official press release from Hallmark Media below...


FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER, 
HALLMARK AND THE 
GRAND OLE OPRY 
SHARE THE HOLIDAY STAGE 
IN CELEBRATION OF 
THE OPRY'S CENTENNIAL YEAR

CHRISTMAS AND COUNTRY 
COMBINE TO MAKE BEAUTIFUL MUSIC 
WHEN NIKKI DELOACH 
AND KRISTOFFER POLAHA 
STAR IN 
"A GRAND OLE OPRY CHRISTMAS" 
DEBUTING THIS YEAR 
DURING HALLMARK CHANNEL'S 
16TH ANNUAL COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS PROGRAMMING EVENT

GRAMMY(R) AWARD-WINNING 
COUNTRY SUPERSTAR 
AND OPRY MEMBER BRAD PAISLEY 
TO WRITE AND PERFORM 
ORIGINAL MUSIC FOR THE MOVIE

Paisley will Also Write and Record the Anthem for Hallmark Channel's 2025 Holiday Campaign

Grand Ole Opry Superstar Members Set to Appear

Production Begins Later This Month at Iconic Locations Including the Grand Ole Opry House

Exclusive Collection of Hallmark and Opry Co-Branded Products to Celebrate the Brand Partnership Available This Holiday Season


STUDIO CITY, CA and NASHVILLE, TN - August 11, 2025 - Hallmark Channel, the perennial, undisputed #1 destination for holiday movie viewing and the Grand Ole Opry, the show that made country music famous, are setting the stage for a magical trip across time with A Grand Ole Opry Christmas, a new, original movie starring Nikki DeLoach (Curious Caterer Mysteries, Our Holiday Story) and Kristoffer Polaha (A Biltmore Christmas, The Christmas Quest), premiering this year during Hallmark Channel's 16th annual Countdown to Christmas programming event. Production begins later this month at iconic locations including the Grand Ole Opry House. The movie will feature familiar faces from the Opry's star-studded cast, with artists to be announced at a later date.

The network also announced that GRAMMY(R) Award-winning country music superstar and Opry member Brad Paisley will write original music for A Grand Ole Opry Christmas and will also perform. Additionally, Paisley will write and record the official anthem for the network's 2025 Countdown to Christmas on-air campaign.

"As the Grand Ole Opry celebrates its 100th birthday this year, this is the perfect time for us to partner with this beloved, iconic American institution and create Christmas magic together," remarked Darren Abbott, Chief Brand Officer, Hallmark. "Nikki and Kris are fan favorites and we know they will beautifully bring to life this emotional and heartfelt story that is sure to become an instant classic."

"Our goal in this milestone year is to put the Opry, its artists and the rich songwriting traditions that have made country music a global sensation in front of more people than ever before," said Colin Reed, Executive Chairman of Ryman Hospitality Properties, the Opry's parent company. "Our partnership with Hallmark brings these elements to life this holiday season through a creative and uplifting take on a uniquely Nashville story."

"Having the incredibly talented Brad Paisley write and perform original music for the movie is what Christmas dreams are made of," Abbott continued. "And we're equally excited to have him write and record an original song that will be the soundtrack of our on-air campaign throughout the season."

"The Hallmark Channel to me is a major part of finding the joy and the spirit of the holidays," said Paisley. "We turn it on and leave it on in our house like Christmas tree lights or decorations, it's a major part of the atmosphere for us. I loved the challenge of creating that same magic with this music by letting it take you to the same place that these movies and this world Hallmark has built. Can't wait for you to hear what all we've done. Also, knowing the Opry is the setting for one of these movies is very inspiring."

Hallmark is launching an exclusive collection of Hallmark and Opry co-branded products including greeting cards, apparel, accessories, jewelry and gifts - the perfect way for fans to celebrate Christmas in country style. The collection will be available to shop later this year at Hallmark.com, Shop.Opry.com, The Opry Shops and at the Hallmark Christmas Experience in Kansas City.


ABOUT A GRAND OLE OPRY CHRISTMAS

Gentry Woods (DeLoach), daughter of late country music icon Jett Woods - half of the famed duo Winter and Woods - abandoned her dream of a songwriting career and distanced herself from her father's legacy following his tragic car accident 30 years prior. When the Grand Ole Opry invites her to represent Jett at their centennial celebration at Christmas, she's hesitant to return to the place steeped in bittersweet memories. Encouraged by her good friends, Gentry visits the Opry and, while seated in one of the vaunted venue's oak church pews, is suddenly transported to 1995. Gentry's lifelong friend Mac (Polaha) a country music talent manager, finds himself in 1995 as well. Thanks to some Christmas magic, Gentry gets precious time with her father, creative inspiration to finish the song she began decades earlier as a teen and learns surprising answers to questions about her father that have followed her for the last three decades.

ABOUT OPRY 100

The Opry 100 celebration pays tribute to the artists, fans and songs that have cemented the Opry as the cultural heart and home of country music since its debut on WSM radio in 1925. For more information, please visit Opry.com.

# # #

ABOUT HALLMARK MEDIA

Owned and operated by Hallmark Cards, Inc., Hallmark Media is entertainment's leading destination for feel-good content. Hallmark Channel features an ambitious slate of new, original movies, scripted series, and the popular annual holiday franchise, Countdown to Christmas. Hallmark Mystery features a unique mix of movies and acquired series focused on the lighter side of the suspense and mystery genres, as well as its own seasonal programming event, Miracles of Christmas. Hallmark Family showcases timeless storytelling for the whole family centered around faith, love, and community. The company's subscription streaming service and membership program, Hallmark+ offers a distinctive blend of all new, exclusive original series and movies, next-day access to Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Mystery premieres, plus monthly discounts and rewards for shopping at Hallmark Gold Crown retail stores. For more information, please visit www.corporate.hallmarkmedia.com.

ABOUT THE GRAND OLE OPRY

The Grand Ole Opry is the home of country music where artists and fans gather, in person and virtually, to celebrate and be part of country's past, present and future. Founded in Nashville in 1925 and today the longest-running live broadcast show in the world, the Opry strengthens its roots by constantly evolving. The Opry's members are country's most emblematic artists, and the show regularly showcases country music's top new talent. The Opry welcomes legions of fans to visit the Opry House in Nashville, Tennessee - Music City, USA - to experience one of the 3-7 live shows it hosts per week; take a backstage tour; listen to live broadcasts on opry.com and wsmonline.com, SiriusXM Willie's Roadhouse, or its flagship home WSM Radio; and watch Opry Live on Saturday nights and Opry content all week long on Circle Country. The Grand Ole Opry is part of Opry Entertainment Group, a subsidiary of Ryman Hospitality Properties (NYSE: RHP).


**********************



My Quick Take:

I'm absolutely thrilled that the Hallmark Channel is paying tribute to the Grand Ole Opry in its 100th anniversary year! As a longtime fan of country music’s rich roots, I’m eagerly looking forward to hearing about all of the talented singers featured, along with Brad Paisley, in this exciting movie project.

And I’m especially excited to see Kristoffer Polaha time-travel once again since he truly stole our hearts with his role in "A Biltmore Christmas"!

Hallmark has also celebrated country music through these notable holiday movies: "A Nashville Christmas Carol," "It's Christmas, Eve," "Christmas at Graceland," "Wedding at Graceland," "Christmas at Graceland: Home for the Holidays," "A Homecoming for the Holidays," all of the "Time to Come Home for Christmas" films, and more! I can’t wait to add this new film to the list!


Stay "tuned," everyone,
for more
festive movie news!
NetπŸŽ„


Saturday, August 9, 2025

Brennan Elliott’s Heartfelt Thank You to Lacey Chabert and Fans for Choosing "His & Hers" as Favorite Rom-Com




Congratulations, Lacey Chabert and Brennan Elliott!

On Wednesday, August 6th, I had the joy of revealing the winners of the It's a Wonderful Movie Awards for Favorite 2024 Romantic Comedy, Mystery, Faith-Based film, & Christmas.

To the delight of myself and so many fans, His & Hers took top honors as the #1 voted favorite romantic-comedy of 2024.

To celebrate, I shared a special reel on X and Instagram, that highlighted the past 15 years worth of past winners and the newest champion.

Not long after, I received the sweetest response in my direct messages from Brennan Elliott saying, "THANK YOU so much Lacey and I are beaming!!"

I, of course, was elated by Brennan's words and so glad this news brought joy to them both.





Yesterday, Brennan shared the wonderful news on Instagram, posting a photo of himself with Lacey along with a heartfelt message thanking viewers for choosing "His & Hers" as their favorite movie.

Brennan also spoke movingly about how much this recognition means to him during a difficult season of loss, and he honored the special friendship he shares with Lacey.

I wanted to be sure to share that touching post and message here for anyone who might have missed it...



Brennan Elliott's message:
"To say that @thereallacey and I are very humbled and grateful that our movie #hisandhers @hallmarkchannel was voted by all you wonderful fans as your favorite @hallmarkchannel movie of #2024 would be an understatement! Thank you all for supporting the movie and all our 10 movies together! I have been so blessed to be able to share the screen with her on 10 movies and love her as a scene partner and creative collaborator, but what you all do not see is how she is off screen. @thereallacey is one of my #bestfriends in the whole world and a beautiful human being who has been there for me through thick and thin. Especially the last number of years through this dark time of #cami being sick with cancer and her passing. This last year especially has been the hardest for the kids and I and I have a number of friends who have been there for me and help love myself and the kids through grief. But this soul sent from heaven @thereallacey is at the top of the list! I love you my friend and appreciate our friendship and to say I can’t wait to do a hundred more movies with you is the truth! But more important than that is I can’t wait to continue our friendship forever. Thank you @thereallacey for being a true friend and helping the kids and I as well as #cami when she was here on this plane through the struggles our family has gone thru. I am here for you and your family forever u know that! If anyone out there can have just 1 friend like I have in @thereallacey u r blessed! πŸ™ ❤️"



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I was so touched by Brennan's heartfelt message, I just had to share it here with all of you. It’s easy to see how much love, respect, and gratitude he has for Lacey as a co-star, but more importantly, as a true, lifelong friend. I believe that’s what makes "His & Hers" so special, and why fans embraced it with such warmth. It was made with real heart, on and off the screen.

It was an absolute honor to give Lacey and Brennan this year’s viewer-voted *It’s a Wonderful Movie Award*. They’ve brought so much joy to so many through their 10 films together, and they've shown us all the beauty of friendship, loyalty, and love that lasts through life’s hardest seasons.

I pray for them both... many more beautiful stories ahead!


Here's a look back at 15 years of Favorite TV Rom-Coms - voted here at It's a Wonderful Movie...
(click image below to play the video)



God's Blessings,
Net


New Poster Reveal for "Crossroad Springs" - Coming to Great American Family




The all-new poster for the new original series, "Crossroad Springs," has been released via Great American Media.

The poster features the characters who will portray the Hamilton family and their distrustful neighbor...

*Jonathan Stoddard portrays Preacher James Hamilton
*Emily Alatalo portrays James' sister, Dr. Janet Hamilton
*Shaun Johnston portrays their father, Willis Hamilton
*Kate Drummond portrays Aunt Amy
*Jesse Hutch portrays the neighbor, Daniel Newman

Also starring in the series are: Brittany Underwood, Jon McLaren, Erin Agostino, and Franco Lo Presti.

Plot description via GAF: "'Crossroad Springs' follows siblings James (Jonathan Stoddard), a Chicago pastor, & Janet (Emily Alatalo), a local ER doctor, who return home to help save their struggling family ranch. Alongside their aging father (Shaun Johnston) & Aunt Amy (Kate Drummond), they face financial strain & a long-standing feud with a neighboring farm run by Daniel Newman (Jesse Hutch). As James adjusts to ranch life, he notices the lack of worship spaces & starts a cowboy church—bringing faith, family, and rural life together under open skies."

I noticed the poster says under the title "SEASON 1". That's interesting, isn't it? Does that imply that there are already plans for a season 2? It does make one think that could be the case, but of course, we'll have to wait and see.

What are your thoughts on this poster and the upcoming series? Please share in the comments below.

Look for "Crossroad Springs" to begin airing episode 1 Saturday, August 30th at 8pm/7c. (If you're a PureFlix streaming subscriber, episodes start Thursday, August 28th.)


Have a great weekend,
Net


Friday, August 8, 2025

☀️Summer Weekend Movies: A Heartfelt Rom-ComπŸ’• & Faith-Filled SuspenseπŸ™



Hey there, Movie Friends!

Got any fun plans for the weekend? I know it's a busy time with some children going back to school this week, and lots of families trying to squeeze in one last Summer adventure. Plus, many of us are still soaking up every bit of Summer sunshine we can - while it lasts! If, however, you’re looking for a little downtime, I’ve got some movie picks you might want to add to your list this weekend.

On Great American Family, One of a Kind Love is making its debut on the channel, and Lifetime is wrapping up its suspenseful, faith-filled series with Finding Faith.

Plus, for those of us missing Christmas in July, I've included the Friday night schedule of Christmas movies... enjoy!!!

Check out details on these movies and more below…



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Friday, August 8, 2025:




Christmas Movie Schedule
Friday, August 8th:


The Sweetest Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 6pm
A Christmas Castle Proposal ... Great American Family ... 6pm
Time for Us to Come Home for Christmas ... Hallmark Channel ... 8pm
A Vintage Christmas ... Great American Family ... 8pm
Christmas at the Drive-In ... Great American Family ... 10pm
A Christmas Castle Proposal ... Great American Family ... 12am
A Vintage Christmas ... Great American Family ... 2am
Christmas at the Drive-In ... Great American Family ... 4am



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Saturday, August 9, 2025:


Storyline: Kyra’s dreams of being a jeweler have been put on the back burner, as her demanding job at the Sawyer Country Club is her priority. When a vacant shop becomes available in town, Kyra sees an opportunity to put a plan into action, until she learns that there’s another renter interested in the space. Enter Aiden Sawyer, prodigal son, big-city business magnate and Kyra’s childhood nemesis, returning home to the country club his parents own. As they patch up their past, Kyra and Aiden learn that there may be something more between them than just playful flirting. But when Kyra enters a renowned jewelry contest to raise enough money to outbid the mystery renter, Aiden finds himself in a race against time to make everything right.

Premieres Saturday, August 9, 2025
at 9pm/8c. on Great American Family


Note: This movie originally premiered in 2021 on the BYU channel. See Alicia's and my reviews below...

Movie Reviews:

🎬 One of a Kind Love is a simple, sweet, family-friendly movie. The film stars Jocelyn Hudon, who is recognizable to Hallmark fans from When Hope Calls, From Friend to FiancΓ©, and Baby, It’s Cold Inside. Jocelyn portrays the very likable girl-next-door sort of character, Kyra, who dreams of being a jewelry designer and owning her own shop in town. In the meantime, she works at the local country club and sells her jewelry designs in her father’s antique shop. Just as she’s about to make plans to acquire the space for her own store, the son of the country club owners, Aidan, who is a wealthy business man used to traveling around the world and making deals by the minute, returns home and makes his own bid on the property and begins to steal Kyra’s heart, as well. Can they work it out before it’s too late? I think you’ll enjoy this happy ending. ~Net

🎬 I watched several of the new movies you told us about on BYUtv, Net. One of a Kind Love, Seasoned with Love, and You May Kiss the Bridesmaid all completely charmed me! Somehow, for me, they were more real and natural and engrossing. Glad to know I'm not just broken and unable to enjoy our wonderful, pleasant, cheesy movies anymore! ;-) ~Alicia



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Saturday, August 9, 2025:





Storyline: Struck by the sudden death of her husband, Faith (Paula Patton) spirals out of control and loses her trust in God. But with the unwavering support of her family, pastor and close friends, Faith starts to find her way out of the darkness and into the light, rebuilding her life one step at a time.

Premieres Saturday, August 9, 2025
at 8pm/7c. on Lifetime

The Christian radio station KLove promoted the film Finding Faith when it premiered early in theaters.

I found this movie review on YouTube from someone who caught an early screening, so I thought I would share it with all of you...

Movie Review:

🎬 I attended the movie screening in Santa Monica, CA, on May 13th. This is a fantastic film about having it all, including a nice home, marriage, and family, only to lose it all, fight back, and find redemption. Paula Patton did an outstanding job as "Faith!" So did the others in the movie. It should be required viewing for churches, as the movie is a sermon in itself. Hopefully, the faith-based community will rally around this film and go in droves as a church outing. ~Eric C.

*CAUTION* Please Note: Based on the movie's promo (see here), Finding Faith will contain some adult content. Viewer discretion is advised.



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Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!

In case you missed it, you can see mine and Alicia's reviews above for One of a Kind Love.

Aurora Teagarden Mysteries: Death at the Diner premiered on the Hallmark Channel last week, and this weekend the mystery will air twice on Hallmark Mystery, premiering on the channel Friday at 8pm/7c. and encoring Sunday at 6pm/5c.

Please note: I haven't seen Aurora Teagarden Mysteries: Death at the Diner or Finding Faith. If you'd like to post a review on whether these films are family-friendly, please share in the comments below.


Have a Blessed Weekend, Everyone!
Net


☀️ SHINING HIS LIGHT ☀️

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."


~Proverbs 3:5-6