🌼 Spring is here and Easter's on it's way! 🌼 See What's on TV this Weekend 👉👉

This weekend there are several Spring-type options of new content on Hallmark, with a road trip (ideal for Spring break!), mystery and chocolate (makes me think of Easter candy!), and there are faith-based films and inspirational Easter programming on UPtv as we enter into Holy Week on this Palm Sunday. I hope you find something you will enjoy!

See details below...


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Saturday, April 9, 2021:

A Royal Runaway Romance

Storyline: Princess Amelia of Bundbury (Northeast) travels across America to explore a budding romance with an artist, only to fall in love with her bodyguard, Grady (Brant Daugherty).

A Royal Runaway Romance

Premieres Saturday, April 9, 2021

at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel

UPDATE: See reviews for this movie - here!

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Saturday and Sunday, April 9 & 10, 2021:

Happy Palm Sunday!

Easter and Inspirational Programming All Weekend Long!

  

Details via UPtv: With 100 hours of entertainment including 20 movies and series, UPtv continues to be the home for Easter with the biggest collection of programming that truly celebrates the season. The “Easter Lives Here” event kicks off Sunday with “The Passion of the Christ” and culminates with the World Broadcast Premieres of “Faith, Hope & Love” and “Small Group” on Easter Sunday (April 17) at 7 PM and 9 PM ET, respectively.

EASTER PROGRAMMING SLATE on UPtv (All times ET)

Saturday, April 9
Expecting a Miracle 3p
Ordinary Miracles 5p
Run the Race 7p
When We Last Spoke 9p
Courageous 11p

Sunday, April 10 (Palm Sunday)
Miles From Nowhere 3p
Run the Race 5p
The Passion of the Christ 7p
Mary, Mother of Jesus 9p
The Passion of the Christ 11p
New Life 1a


Available on DVD:
(click on the DVD's below for current price!)



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Sunday, April 10, 2021:

When Calls the Heart

Season 9 - Episode 6

Storyline: Lee writes a new editorial in the Valley Voice. Gowen worries about the oil company’s intentions now that Fiona has all but secured a deal with investors.

When Calls the Heart

Season 9 - Episode 6

airs Sunday, April 10, 2021

at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel

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Sunday, April 10, 2021:

Curious Caterer:

Dying for Chocolate

Storyline: Goldy (Nikki DeLoach) is a spirited single mom who’s thrust into the role of town sleuth to help solve a friend’s mysterious death. With the clock ticking to find the culprit, Goldy strikes up an unlikely partnership with Detective Tom Schultz (Andrew Walker), who leans into Goldy’s local knowledge. As their relationship shows signs of becoming something more, the suspect list rises. Will Goldy narrow in on the killer before the killer narrows in on her?

Curious Caterer: Dying for Chocolate

Premieres Sunday, April 10, 2021

at 9pm/8c. on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries

Nikki DeLoach and Andrew Walker movies on DVD/Prime Video:
(click on the DVD's below for current price!)



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Is there anything special you are looking forward to watching this weekend? I'm curious about the new Hallmark rom-com with Brant Daugherty, but the actress is new-to-me, so... we'll see!

I'm also quite curious about the new mystery! Nikki DeLoach and Andrew Walker are well-known for their extensive resume of great Hallmark movies. Should be interesting to see how this mystery goes for the two of them; however, since they've already done movies together, they will surely have excellent chemistry in this new one. (This is actually Andrew's second HMM mystery, since he previously starred in "Wedding Planner Mystery." Unfortunately, they only made that one movie.) I presume this will be the first movie in a series of Curious Caterer films.

Please note: I have not pre-screened the new movies listed above. If you'd like to post a review on whether a film is family-friendly, please share in comments.

I'm also very grateful UPtv is airing programming that honors the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. I hope you all have a delightful weekend as we prepare our hearts for this upcoming Holy Easter Week.

God's blessings to you all on this Palm Sunday! Net

☀☀☀☀☀☀☀☀☀☀

SHINING HIS LIGHT:

Jesus Comes to Jerusalem as King

12 The next day the great crowd that had come for the festival heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem.

13 They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting,
“Hosanna!”
“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”
“Blessed is the king of Israel!”

14 Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, as it is written:

15 “Do not be afraid, Daughter Zion;
see, your king is coming,
seated on a donkey’s colt.”

16 At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that these things had been done to him.

17 Now the crowd that was with him when he called Lazarus from the tomb and raised him from the dead continued to spread the word.

18 Many people, because they had heard that he had performed this sign, went out to meet him.

~ John 12:12-18

Hallmark's April 2022 Movie Schedule Revealed!

Hallmark has shared their movie lineup for the Hallmark Channel and Hallmark Movies & Mysteries for April, with these well-known actors: Brant Daugherty, Brittany Bristow, Chris McNally, Autumn Reeser, Tyler Hynes, Nikki DeLoach, and Andrew Walker.

See the details on the new movies shared by ET:


HALLMARK CHANNEL'S "SPRING INTO LOVE"
All premieres are at 8 p.m. ET/PT.

Movie: Just One Kiss

Starring: Krysta Rodriguez, Santino Fontana, Illeana Douglas, Aida Turturro

Premieres: Saturday, April 2, 2022

Storyline: Through a series of chance encounters, sparks fly between college literature professor Mia (Rodriguez) and Tony (Fontana), a headliner at a Manhattan supper club. Unbeknownst to them, Mia’s mother, Marlene (Douglas), and Tony’s mother, Sofia (Turturro), are working some maternal matchmaking magic.


Movie Reviews:


💮 "Just One Kiss definitely not family friendly. A so so movie also." ~JoCo


💮 "I was so excited for JUST ONE KISS because I really like Santino Fontana. Unfortunately a few minutes in the male married best friend of the female lead mentions a man's name when talking to her. Then at about 15 minutes in the same friend shows up with another man. That is when I turned it off, so I don't know if they show up anymore in the movie. It was very disappointing because up to that point it had been enjoyable. =( " ~Anna


💮 "Sorry to say that, as charming as Just 1 Kiss looks, there's a gay couple." -Maria


💮 "I also saw just one kiss on Hallmark Channel on Saturday which was ok." ~Chris


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Movie: A Royal Runaway Romance

Starring: Philippa Northeast, Brant Daugherty

Premieres: Saturday, April 9, 2022

Storyline: Princess Amelia of Bundbury (Northeast) travels across America to explore a budding romance with an artist, only to fall in love with her bodyguard, Grady (Daugherty).


Movie Reviews:


💮 "Didn’t take long for A Royal Runaway Romance to fly off the rails. Definitely not family friendly. At least they didn’t wait till the end and try to sneak it in. Will just assume the worst from now on from Hallmark. Wanted to give benefit of doubt but that won’t work anymore." ~JoCo


💮 "Sorry to say this, but A Royal Runaway Romance has a mention of a gay couple." -Maria


💮 "A Royal Runaway Romance When Amelia talks with a painter named Wes Riverton is from Chicago when he’ll ahead back home? She calls her Uncle Andreas who lives in Los Angeles. He mentions a boyfriend as referred to him Wes Riverton to his Niece Amelia. He meets up with Head of Security Grady Beck. Grady has his SUV. Uncle Andreas leans his car to Grady to take his Niece; Amelia for road trip to Chicago to see Wes has his Poe Portrait Gallery. From California, Utah, Nebraska, & Chicago. Grady & Amelia go camping & they eat s’mores by campfire." ~Anonymous


💮 "A Royal Runaway Romance... This film sadly does have an issue with the uncle(talking about his once gay love 2x. I ended up skipping past his scenes and was so glad I did because the rest of it was so enjoyable. I loved watching the two of them fall in love and his parents and the B&B older couple, still loving each other, so sweet! And when she gave away the dress and the pearls...awww! And also when the older lady looks at her husband and says that he is her home. I almost cried." ~Abigail


💮 "I am heartsick over A Royal Runaway Romance! If I had only gotten the first part of the movie and knew the uncle was gay, I would not have watched any of the movie. Like it was, Hallmark got credit in the ratings for my watching most of it. Why are they using my favorite actors' movies to place this trash? I should have waited for reviews today like I said I would. Hallmark is never to be trusted." ~kitkat


💮 "Abigail has hit the nail on the head with A Royal Runaway Romance. Such a pity they had to include the gay uncle but it doesn't amount to an awful lot of screen time. I respect others' opinions here and it's unfortunate that because of this many are missing what is actually a pretty good movie. For once the accents aren't off-putting and while it's a Hallmark movie and you have to suspend some belief overall the situations are pretty realistic - some touching, some humerous. It takes a little while for Phillippa Northeast to get into her role as the Princess but there's great acting by both her and Brant Daugherty especially at the beginning with Brant playing the inscrutable bodyguard. Excellent chemistry between the pair and I particularly like it when you can actually see the characters falling in love as the movie progresses. I liked the little cameos of each State as they passed through on thier way from LA to Chicago. One of the better Royal movies. Florence's rating 8 I'm not a fan of Royal movies in particular but this was one of best." ~Florence



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Movie: Love, Classified

I have decided not to promote this movie. See details - here



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Movie: A Tail of Love

Starring: Brittany Bristow, Chris McNally

Premieres: Saturday, April 23, 2022

Storyline: Bella (Bristow) learns her dog rescue’s future is in question when they lose funding from their main sponsor, a dog food company that’s being sold. The late owner’s son, JR (McNally), is a soldier who is home on leave to handle the sale. During a visit to the rescue, JR quickly bonds with Indie, a retired military dog they just took in, and begins spending more time there. When Bella learns the rescue’s property is also being sold, she turns to JR for help with finding the missing document proving her grandparents purchased the land many years before.

Movie Reviews:


💮 "Remember when I hoped I wouldn't regret trying to watch 'A Tail of Love'? Well, (very awkward chuckle), I did. 1st 15 minutes in, 2 men show up with a dog, and they look together together. Honestly, I don't even know why I bother anymore. Probably just best to just stick to watching WCTH from now on." -Maria


💮 "I can't really say that A Tail of Love is not family friendly. The scene that Anonymous mentioned probably does indicate a gay couple, but I wasn't sure when watching. It's very brief and they could be friends. Kids would not make the connection. Other than that, there's nothing else in the movie that indicates "woke". I personally think the movie was a little slow and the story a bit unorganized. But...it pays honor to our military as well as people with disabilities that need service dogs. Brittany and Chris did a great job but there's not much chemistry between them...but that's personal opinion. The dogs are great!!" ~Joyce


💮 "Agree with Joyce, it’s probably implied but completely up to our interpretation. Thought they also mentioned being coworkers???? Maybe? Anyway, loved Brittany but the rest was just okay." ~Allie B.


💮 "Brittany actually referred the one guy as the others partner. I don't believe she meant it as business partner either. I believe she meant it as reference to a homosexual relationship." ~Anonymous


💮 "I recently read on other IAWM website pages that there were hints of a same-sex couple,. I missed that completely, and I have watched A Tail of Love several times. To me it is family-friendly, and I'm *very picky*. I really liked Brittany and Chris together. I hope to see them starring together again in another Hallmark Movie." ~Namegirl


💮 "A Tail of Love – This is a sweet and simple tale of love! It is family-friendly; however, I want to mention (as others shared) there are two men shown together near the beginning who may be a couple or coworkers. Their connection is not clearly defined - so it's up to you to decide. If you enjoy dogs and puppies, then this movie will surely interest you because there are many cute doggies throughout. I thought the romance between Bella (Brittany Bristow) & JR (Chris McNally) was gradual, but still pleasing to watch unfold. I’m also a fan of the actress, Jayne Eastwood (Heart of the Holidays), who played Bella’s grandmother. With her spunk and spicy attitude, she is always a fun one to watch. Plus, she was a delightful family match with actress Brittany Bristow. (Spoiler Alert!) I was taken aback slightly by Bella’s reaction to JR, who was deciding on whether or not to leave for military service in Iraq. She did not like the idea of a long-distance relationship and pulled away from him. The romance resolves itself in the end, but I thought this was an odd way to treat someone in the service. Most spouses or loved ones are supportive of the individual who is serving our country. I thought this was a very odd reaction. (The storyline in "My Grown-Up Christmas List" is completely different.) Even though I didn’t like Bella’s initial response… overall, this ended up being a charming rom-com." ~Net



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HALLMARK MOVIES & MYSTERIES' APRIL MOVIES
All premieres are at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

Movie: Always Amore

Starring: Autumn Reeser, Tyler Hynes, Patty McCormack

Executive producer: Giada De Laurentiis

Premieres: Sunday, April 3, 2022

Storyline: Elizabeth (Reeser), with the support of her mother-in-law, Nonna (McCormack), is doing everything she can to keep her late husband’s once-acclaimed -- but now struggling -- Italian restaurant afloat. With business going downhill, she is forced to work with a professional restaurant consultant, Ben (Hynes), to see if they can turn things around. At first, Elizabeth resists the changes Ben believes will save the restaurant, but as they get closer, Elizabeth realizes that not all change is bad. She rediscovers her passion for baking and might even open her heart to new love.


Movie Reviews:


💮 "Always Amore is a very yummy, charming, and clean movie!" -Maria


💮 "Always Amore is family friendly about IL Cabo E Vita - Italian Restaurant (the review/synopsis below may contain spoilers) A restaurant owner Elizabeth Campisu (Autumn Reeser) struggle to keep her late Husband named Chef Marco Campisi’s Italian eatery running after his passing. It's not till she meets Ben Elliott is a restaurant consultant, that she becomes open to necessary changes, and potentially, new love. A restaurant owner named Elizabeth Campisi is struggling to keep her late husband's restaurant, IL Cibo È Vita, afloat and keep her beloved Marco's memory alive. Elizabeth has the support of her staff, her Mother-in-Law named Nonna Campisi & her biggest fan, Daughter Sofia Campisi, but it's not enough. The business is in serious trouble. Ben Elliott is a career restaurant fixer the person who travels from restaurant to restaurant to review and help revamp the business in every aspect from finances to menu items, and even décor of the building itself. While Elizabeth begins to teach Ben the significance of the restaurant, Cibo È Vita, she finds her long-lost passion for baking. Along the way, Elizabeth & Ben’s bond grows stronger. Elizabeth tries to keep her late husband's once acclaimed restaurant afloat, she's forced to work with a consultant to turn things around. He reignites her passion for baking and life itself.” ~Anonymous


💮 "Very much enjoyed the movie with Autum Reeser and Tyler Hynes." ~Anonymous


💮 "I saw Always Amore on Hallmark Movies and Mysteries which was very good." ~Chris


💮 "For anyone who enjoys dining at a fabulous Italian restaurant, "Always Amore" is a treat! The cinematography is gorgeous and Giada de Laurentis' dishes are exquisite! I love this movie! It is sweet in mood as Autumn Reeser's character warms to Tyler Hynes' character, and Patty McCormack is lovely as always. I found this movie a sumptuous delight, family friendly and worth taking the time to observe the relationship turn to love. "Always Amore" has romantic charm, a terrific plot and beautifully-filmed scenes. Love Autumn Reeser's wardrobe! Tyler Hynes is definitely adorable! Give this movie a chance! You will fall in love with gorgeous Italian cooking! And the romance is nice, too!" ~Edith


💮 "This movie is not as clear-cut as most rom-coms. This is a more in depth story about love and loss. I enjoyed watching Tyler Hynes' character, Ben, learn Italian ways and cooking, and immerse himself into Elizabeth's (Autumn Reeser) family, all while trying to help save the families' restaurant. And I enjoyed seeing Elizabeth open herself up to changes and the possibility of new love. Always Amore is filled with heartwarming moments and emotion. This movie is family-friendly for a mature audience, due to the dialogue about losing a loved one." ~Net



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Movie: Curious Caterer: Dying for Chocolate

Starring: Nikki DeLoach, Andrew Walker

Premieres: Sunday, April 10, 2022

Storyline: Goldy (DeLoach) is a spirited single mom who’s thrust into the role of town sleuth to help solve a friend’s mysterious death. With the clock ticking to find the culprit, Goldy strikes up an unlikely partnership with Detective Tom Schultz (Walker), who leans into Goldy’s local knowledge. As their relationship shows signs of becoming something more, the suspect list rises. Will Goldy narrow in on the killer before the killer narrows in on her?


Movie Review:

🔎 "Not sure where to post this, but wanted to let people know that Curious Caterer: Dying for Chocolate was good/safe as far as same-sex couples go (I didn't notice anything). Since it is obviously a murder mystery, and includes mentioning possible affairs, I will leave it up to parents as to age-appropriateness. My mom and I enjoyed it. There were commercial previews for Love Classified that were awful, and I may not watch anything else live again for now because of that. I will record and skip commercials." ~Anonymous

🔎 "The Curious Caterer: Dying for Chocolate... 100% clean! Just how we all like it! This was a good one. I really loved her as the amateur sleuth! And halfway Detective Tom realizes that she's helpful and includes her in the investigation. The two were so well paired together and the younger cop Mason reminded me of Phillip(Teagarden) I do wish they hadn't included a ex-husband. God hates divorce. It's sad how so many married couples split over nothing, but still friends. Something's wrong there....Anyway, I really did enjoy this and encourage you all to give it a try!" ~Abigail

🔎 "Abigail, I watched The Curious Caterer: Dying for Chocolate last night. I agree with you! I really enjoyed this movie." ~kitkat

🔎 "Encouraged by the assurance that there was no "alphabet people" stuff in the Curious Caterer movie, I tried to watch it, and was also chased off by the music in the opening scene, and then they completely put me off with the matchmaking of the recently divorced single mom. Most HM single moms (and dads) are widowed; I know that divorce happens (just as homosexual behavior does), but it doesn't need to be even passively encouraged. Oh well, I can still look forward to the next Aurora Teagarden mystery (or Hailey Dean, but it looks like they haven't made one of those in over 2 years). Too bad HM jumped on the "We Hate Lori Laughlin" bandwagon so quickly, because hers was my favorite of the HM mystery series." ~Alfredo

🔎 "For those of us familiar with this book series by Diane Mott Davidson, the script for this TV movie bears almost no resemblance, and has ruined most of the major characters." ~Anonymous



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The two new Hallmark movies I'm looking forward to seeing the most from Hallmark's April movie line-up are A Tail of Love, with Brittany Bristow and Chris McNally and Curious Caterer: Dying for Chocolate, with Nikki DeLoach and Andrew Walker. First, A Tail of Love sounds like an adorable rom-com that includes puppies. I'm so in! As for Curious Caterer: Dying for Chocolate, I'm intrigued to see this all new movie since Nikki and Andrew have been talking about the possibility of teaming up to do a mystery together for years!

Please share your thoughts on the new movies in comments below...

Blessings to you all, Net