A Look at LIFETIME this FALL and CHRISTMAS 2021! #ItsAWonderfulLifetime SEE HERE:

Typically, Lifetime's movies throughout the year, which are filled with suspense and violence, aren't my thing; however, Lifetime is premiering two movies this fall that look not only promising, but inspirational.

images: Lifetime

The first movie I want to share is “Don't Sweat the Small Stuff: The Kristine Carlson Story,” which stars actress Heаther Lockleаr as Kristine Carlson. You'll also see another familiar face... Candace Cameron Bure's daughter, Natasha Bure, ("Home Sweet Home," "Switched at Christmas") has a role in the movie as Kristine Carlson's daughter, Jazzy.

Details via Lifetime: "Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff" is about Kristine Carlson (Heather Locklear) and her husband Dr. Richard Carlson (Jason MacDonald), who had an amazing life with their two daughters. But when Richard tragically passes away, Kristine is knocked off balance. Comfortable with living in Richard’s shadow, she is now forced to navigate the unchartered territory of becoming a single mom while dealing with pressure to become the new face and voice of the Don't Sweat the Small Stuff brand. Looking deep inside herself, Kristine comes to understand the true essence of emotional authenticity and not sweating the small stuff, which leads to the resilience and confidence needed to carry on the legacy of the beloved brand.

Natasha Bure recently shared in an interview with technotrenz.com: “Despite the fаct thаt it is аbout so much loss, this film is so inspiring, аnd it shows the strength of these three women (mother and daughters) who аre continuing to live their lives despite the loss of а close fаmily member,” sаys Bure.

Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff premieres

Saturday, October 16, 2021

at 8pm/7c. on Lifetime

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

image: Lifetime

image: Lifetime

The other movie premiering this Fall on Lifetime I want to share is "Highway to Heaven," starring Jill Scott and Barry Watson. This a remake of the original TV series with Michael Landon. You may recall, I shared this movie with you all back in mid-June when Lifetime first announced this series. A trailer for the movie was recently released, so I thought I would share it with you all below.

"Highway to Heaven" story via Lifetime: An updated take on Michael Landon’s iconic 80s television series Highway to Heaven, Lifetime’s new original movie reboot follows Angela Stewart (Jill Scott), an angel who is sent back to earth to help others in need. In the first movie, premiering November 6, 2021, Angela the angel takes on the role of a temporary school counselor. Working alongside junior high school principal Bruce Banks (Barry Watson), she intervenes in the life of a troubled student Cody Grier (Ben Daon) who is struggling with the tragic loss of his mother.

Trailer | Highway to Heaven:

One of the commenters on YouTube, Judy B, mentioned that this actually looks and sounds more like "Touched by an Angel" than "Highway to Heaven" and I would have to agree. It definitely seems to have that certain heartwarming, emotional feel to it. Judy B. concluded her comment by saying, "Either way its nice to have faith based shows to watch." That is so true.

Highway to Heaven premieres

Saturday, November 6, 2021

at 8pm/7c. on Lifetime

*Note: I found the timing of this premiere on November 6th to be rather interesting. By November, Lifetime is usually full force into airing Christmas movies.


Movie Review:

*"I have just watched "Highway to Heaven". It was such a good, family-friendly and heartwarming movie. I didn't watch the original "Highway to Heaven" series, but this one was very good." ~Anonymous

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

Christmas in Tune - image: Lifetime

Now, for Lifetime's Christmas movie event!

People.com is now sharing a 1 minute video clip highlighting Lifetime's "It's a Wonderful Lifetime" Holiday Season with stars like: Reba McEntire, John Schneider, "The Brady Bunch" cast members, Haylie Duff, Melissa Joan Hart, Mario Lopez, Tia Mowry, Jana Kramer, Kelly Rowland, Marie Osmond and more!

You can view the Lifetime Christmas movie teaser video - click here. Please Note: We don't know, yet, which Christmas movies will or won't be family friendly. I see a couple in the video that I'll skip and others that look really fun and must-see! Stay tuned to *It's a Wonderful Movie* for more movie details to come!

Blessings! Net

LIFETIME GREENLIGHTS REIMAGINED HIGHWAY TO HEAVEN MOVIE SERIES STARRING:

Photo of Jill Scott (by Dion Farrell) and Barry Watson (by Justine Yeung)
on the set of Highway to Heaven

JILL SCOTT AND BARRY WATSON

STARTING FALL 2021

LIFETIME PRESS RELEASE ---

Based on Michael Landon’s Classic Drama Series Watched by Millions

Movies Produced by Propagate and Rain Productions for Lifetime

Los Angeles, CA (June 17, 2021) - Lifetime is offering an inspiring new take on a beloved classic with the greenlight of the event movie series Highway to Heaven starring Grammy® winner Jill Scott (First Wives Club), who also Executive Produces, as the new angel Angela who comes down to Earth to help people in crisis. It also stars Barry Watson (The Loudest Voice) as Junior High School principal Bruce to whom Angela reveals her true identity. In cooperation with Cindy Landon and the Michael Landon Estate, the wheel of movies are inspired by the highly-rated 80s drama that ran over 100 episodes between 1984 – 1989. With a constant theme throughout of love and kindness, the reboot aims to inspire hope and community as it addresses contemporary social and emotional issues, this time with a female angel as the anchor of the movie series.

This marks a reunion for Lifetime and Jill Scott, who previously starred in the Emmy® nominated Flint centered on the water crisis, the all-African American reboot of Steel Magnolias and Sins of the Mother. Barry Watson also returns to Lifetime for his first non-holiday movie role for network, having previously starred in A Very Nutty Christmas and The Santa Con.

“The original Highway to Heaven was appointment viewing for millions and in a time when we need those messages of hope the most, we are excited to bring back the iconic series in a new way," said Tanya Lopez, Executive Vice President, Scripted Programming, Lifetime & LMN. “Having worked with Jill previously for some of Lifetime's most celebrated movies, we know she is the perfect actor to bring her passion and brilliance to this role. I just love her…Jill amplifies everything she touches in ways that make her pop off the screen. And the addition of Barry was just icing on the cake. I believe we have assembled a dynamic new duo with both Jill and Barry at the helm.”

Lifetime’s Highway to Heaven follows Angela (Jill Scott), an angel sent back to Earth by God, to help others in need. In the premiere movie, Angela assumes the role of a temporary school counselor and finds herself working alongside the principal Bruce (Barry Watson) as she intervenes in the lives of a troubled student Cody (Ben Daon, The Astronauts) and his father Jeff (Robert Moloney, Riverdale/You Me Her) after the tragic loss of Cody's mother, Melissa (Ashley Ross, A Series of Unfortunate Events). As Angela seemingly works miracles with Cody and Jeff, Bruce is in disbelief when he learns of the divine nature of Angela's work.

The first movie installment of the Highway to Heaven series is produced by Rain Productions and Propagate for Lifetime. Jonathan Baruch and Rob Wolken executive produce for Rain Productions; Ben Silverman, Howard T. Owens, Gregory Lipstone and Rodney Ferrell executive produce from Propagate; Howard Braunstein is executive producer; Jill Scott and Shawn Gee also executive produce. Stacey K. Black directs from an original script by executive producer/writer Cathryn Humphris and award-winning playwright Angelica Chéri. Cindy Landon and Wayne Lepoff are executive producing on behalf of Michael Landon’s estate.


JILL SCOTT BIO

Jill Scott is a three-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter, New York Times best-selling poet, critically acclaimed actor and multimedia entrepreneur. She released her much anticipated debut record, "Who is Jill Scott? Words & Sounds, Vol. 1," in July 2000, which became a double platinum album that earned Scott several Grammy nominations, including Best New Artist. Later she went on to have the #1 album in the country with "The Light of The Sun" and performed at The White House. Never limited to music, Scott is a true multimedia brand across audio, books, TV and film. She currently plays the role of "Hazel" in BET+’s The First Wives Club, and is the host of J.ill the Podcast. A consummate writer at heart, she penned The Moments, The Minutes, The Hours, a compilation of poems that instantly became a New York Times bestseller. She is the founder of Blues Babe, a registered 501(c)3 foundation that supports minority students pursuing college degrees. Follow her on social media at @MissJillScott. Jill Scott is represented by UTA and Maverick.


BARRY WATSON BIO

Barry Watson is soon to be seen starring in the CW superhero drama Naomi, based on the DC Comic. He most recently appeared opposite Russell Crowe in Showtime’s limited series The Loudest Voice, chronicling the rise and fall of former Fox News Chairman, Roger Ailes. In addition, he was the lead of the Hulu/Blumhouse Production film The Current Occupant and in Sony’s A Dog’s Way Home. Watson’s breakout role was on 7th Heaven, starring as Matt Camden for six seasons. He has also starred in ABC’s relationship drama What About Brian and the critically acclaimed ABC comedy Samantha Who, opposite Christina Applegate. He has also appeared in Murder in the First, Hart of Dixie and Gossip Girl. Watson is represented by Innovative Artists and Trademark Talent.


ABOUT PROPAGATE

Founded in 2015 by Ben Silverman and Howard Owens, who pioneered the global format business in the late 1990s, Propagate has offices in Los Angeles, New York and Paris. Its recent credits include the Emmy-nominated “Hillary” that premiered at Sundance and Berlin and now streams on Hulu, the recently aired “Notre Dame: Our Lady of Paris” on ABC and “Go-Big Show” on TBS, and the upcoming American adaptation of The Eurovision Song Contest, as well as the unscripted “November 13: Attack on Paris” “Haunted” and "Prank Encounters" for Netflix, and “In Search Of” and “Kings of Pain” for the History Channel. In scripted, "Blood and Treasure" and "Broke" for CBS, “Charmed” for The CW, the recently aired election-themed puppet special on Fox, “Let’s Be Real” and the upcoming “Zorro” television series for NBC. Propagate also created and produced the podcast, “An Oral History of The Office” for Spotify. Propagate’s expanding portfolio of companies includes Electus (“You vs. Wild”, “Running Wild With Bear Grylls,” “Jane the Virgin,” “Fashion Star”), Big Breakfast (“Adam Ruins Everything”, “Hot Date”), Notional (“Chopped” franchise), and talent management firms Artists First, Authentic Talent & Literary Management and Select Management.


ABOUT RAIN PRODUCTIONS

Rain Productions is a full-service production company located in Los Angeles, CA. Founded by principals Jonathan Baruch and Rob Wolken, the company specializes in high quality programming serving a wide and diverse audience. Recent productions include “All American Stories” a 2-part Documentary series that aired on The CW; award winning movie “Escaping the Madhouse,” starring Christina Ricci and Judith Light (Lifetime); and “Stitchers” which aired on Freeform for 3 seasons. Rain Productions is a sister company to Rain Management Group which is in the artist representation business and works with Golden Globe, Emmy, NAACP Image Award, Tony, Billboard nominated/winning clients. Baruch and Wolken founded Rain in 2009.


ABOUT LIFETIME

Celebrating 35 years of entertaining audiences, Lifetime is a premier entertainment destination for women dedicated to offering the highest quality original programming spanning award-winning movies, high-quality scripted series and breakout non-fiction series. Lifetime has an impressive legacy in public affairs, bringing attention to social issues that women care about with initiatives such as the long running Stop Breast Cancer for Life now in its 25th year, Stop Violence Against Women which relaunched in 2018, and Broader Focus, a major global initiative dedicated to supporting and hiring female directors, writers and producers, including women of color, to make its content. Lifetime Television®, LMN®, Lifetime Real Women® and Lifetime Digital™ are part of Lifetime Entertainment Services, LLC, a subsidiary of A+E Networks. A+E Networks is a joint venture of the Disney-ABC Television Group and Hearst Corporation.

# # #

--- END OF PRESS RELEASE ---

I think this potentially sounds quite interesting. I've liked actor Barry Watson ever since his days on the family TV drama, 7th Heaven, where he played the son of a preacher. Barry has also starred in some fun Christmas movies on Lifetime, A Very Nutty Christmas and The Santa Con. You may also recall him from the Hallmark camp movie, Kiss at Pine Lake.

If they keep these movies in the same spirit as the original Highway to Heaven, then this may be a truly inspirational series. I'm also thinking it may have the same sort of feel as Touched by an Angel.

What do you think? Please share in comments below...

Blessings, Net

LIFETIME PREMIERES NEW CHRISTMAS MOVIE TONIGHT! (Yes, on a Friday!)

With so many movies, why wait until Saturday or Sunday night to catch a new Christmas movie premiere, when you can see Melissa Joan Hart and Barry Watson star in...
"A Very Nutty Christmas"
tonight on Lifetime!

Note: From all the clips and details I've seen on this one... it's going be a zany, silly and fun, comedic movie! Definitely not one to take too seriously, but simply enjoy!


Friday, November 30, 2018

Kate Holiday experiences a Magical Holiday - far beyond her dreams in...

A Very Nutty Christmas

image: Lifetime

Storyline via Lifetime: Hard-working bakery owner Kate Holiday (Melissa Joan Hart), has more cookie orders than she has time to fill this holiday season, and when her boyfriend suddenly breaks up with her, any shred of Christmas joy she was hanging onto, immediately disappears. After Kate hangs the last ornament on the tree and goes to bed, she awakens the next morning to a little bit of Christmas magic. She gets the surprise of her life when... click here to read more...

See the premiere of A Very Nutty Christmas

Friday, November 30, 2018

at 8pm/7c. on Lifetime

Hope you enjoy this Fun, Festive, Friday Night Christmas Movie Premiere on Lifetime!

Like many of you, I've been recording and watching one Christmas movie after another Christmas movie - and we have lots more coming up this weekend! The post with all that info is coming soon!

Have a Very Merry Christmas Season, Everyone! Enjoy this last day of November to the fullest!

Joyous Blessings to You All! Net

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

A Very Nutty Christmas - a Lifetime Christmas Movie Premiere starring Melissa Joan Hart & Barry Watson!

MOVIE REVIEW

Movie: A Very Nutty Christmas

Network: Lifetime

Original Air Date: November 30, 2018

image: A Very Nutty Christmas - Lifetime

image: Lifetime, via: EW .com

CAST:

Melissa Joan Hart ... Kate
Barry Watson ... Chip
Richard Riehle ... Dosselmeyer
Marissa Jaret Winokur ... Rosa
Rizwan Manji ... Justin
Ryan Caltagirone ... Mark
Katie McCarty ... Tiffany
Joanna Howard ... Ginger
Bill Salvatore ... Caroller / Ballroom Dancer / Ballet Attendee / Bar Patron
Chester Jones III ... Zach
Mike Sharits ... Eric
Keith J. Stevens ... Townsperson / Bar Patron
John Mondin ... Big Mousekowitz
Richard Tovish ... Snow Guy
Jesse Burke ... Little Mousekowitz



PLOT:

Storyline via Lifetime: Hard-working bakery owner Kate Holiday (Melissa Joan Hart), has more cookie orders than she has time to fill this holiday season, and when her boyfriend suddenly breaks up with her, any shred of Christmas joy she was hanging onto, immediately disappears. After Kate hangs the last ornament on the tree and goes to bed, she awakens the next morning to a little bit of Christmas magic. She gets the surprise of her life when Chip (Barry Watson), a handsome soldier who may or may not be the Nutcracker Prince from Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker, appears in her living room.


Movie Review:

Coming...


See or Skip:

Coming...


--
*images via: Lifetime

UP's New TV Series "Date My Date" starring Barry Watson premieres Tonight!

“Date My Dad”

image via: UP TV

Storyline via UP:
"“Date My Dad” is a 10-episode family dramedy that tells the story of a single dad raising three daughters. Ricky Cooper (Barry Watson) had the perfect life. A former professional baseball player, he was married to Isabella, the love of his life. Ricky’s world comes crashing down when Isabella passes away leaving him to raise three daughters alone.

“Date My Dad” picks up three years later while Ricky is raising the girls with the help of his live-in mother-in-law, Rosa (Raquel Welch). On his 40th birthday, Ricky experiences a different type of crisis when Rosa unexpectedly announces that she is moving. He becomes panic-stricken knowing he will have to tackle everything from make-up to boys to driving on his own. His daughters – Mirabel (15), Elisa (12) and Gigi (8) – have also been busy. They have taken matters into their own hands by making it their mission to get their dad back in the game…the dating game, that is. Ricky is in for a roller coaster ride as he is pushed into the dating world for the first time in 20 years while also being the best dad he can be to his girls."

“Date My Dad” Cast includes: Barry Watson, Raquel Welch, Zenia Marshall, Lilah Fitzgerald, Audrey Smallman, Matty Finochio, Cindy Busby, and more!

See the Premiere of Date My Dad

The Pilot Episode

Friday June 2, 2017 on UP at 9pm/8c.

(repeats at 11pm/10c.)

Plus, see Episode 2 following the premiere

Date My Date - "But I Really Like The Kids"

Friday June 2, 2017 on UP at 10pm/9c. 

(repeats at 12am/11c.)

WHO will STAR in All New UP TV SERIES - "Date My Dad" ??? (Clue: Lots of Actors & Actresses from UP & Hallmark Movies!)

Starring in the New upcoming UP Weekly TV Series "Date My Dad" is actor Barry Watson with an awesome Cast! See all the details below!

image via: Instagram

UP has released this synopsis of the new "Date My Dad" TV series:

“Date My Dad” is a 10-episode family dramedy that tells the story of a single dad raising three daughters. Ricky Cooper (Barry Watson) had the perfect life. A former professional baseball player, he was married to Isabella, the love of his life. Ricky’s world comes crashing down when Isabella passes away leaving him to raise three daughters alone. “Date My Dad” picks up three years later while Ricky is raising the girls with the help of his live-in mother-in-law, Rosa (Raquel Welch). On his 40th birthday, Ricky experiences a different type of crisis when Rosa unexpectedly announces that she is moving. He becomes panic-stricken knowing he will have to tackle everything from make-up to boys to driving on his own. His daughters – Mirabel (15), Elisa (12) and Gigi (8) – have also been busy. They have taken matters into their own hands by making it their mission to get their dad back in the game…the dating game, that is. Ricky is in for a roller coaster ride as he is pushed into the dating world for the first time in 20 years while also being the best dad he can be to his girls.

image via: Instagram

The Storyline:

On the surface, the basic premise for this story sounds like the sitcoms Full House or The Brady Bunch, with a single parent raising three children on their own. This series, however, is described as a dramedy. I googled it, and according to Wikipedia, it's pretty much exactly what you think... "a Comedy-drama, occasionally known as dramedy (portmanteau of words drama and comedy), is a subgenre in contemporary forms of tragicomedy, especially in television, that combines elements of comedy and drama." (Basically sometimes it is funny and sometimes it is serious.)


WHO is Starring in this new series?

Barry Watson - of the long-running television drama series 7th Heaven, and the TV movies UP's "Far From Home," Hallmark's "Kiss at Pine Lake," Lifetime's "Santa Con," and many more... will portray the father, Ricky Cooper, in this series. It should be interesting to see Barry take on the father-role, especially for those of us who remember him well as Matt Camden in 7th Heaven, the eldest son of the Camden family.

Barry Watson -  "Far From Home" / image via: UP

Lilah Fitzgerald - of the UP movie "A Girl's Best Friend," and Hallmark's "When Calls the Heart" and "Harvest Moon." Lilah will portray the second daughter, 12 year old Elisa Cooper, the middle child.

Lilah Fitzgerald - "A Girl's Best Friend" / image via: UP

Zenia Marshall - of Hallmark's "Summer of Dreams" - will portray Mira Cooper, the 15 year old daughter.

Zenia Marshall - "Summer of Dreams" (pictured in the middle of ensemble cast)
image via: Hallmark Crown Media

Audrey Smallman - of Hallmark's "Family for Christmas" - will portray 8 year old Gigi Cooper, the youngest of three girls.

Audrey Smallman - "A Family for Christmas"
image via: Hallmark Crown Media

Raquel Welch - has been well known as a movie star since the 1960s. Raquel recently starred in Hallmark's TV movie "The Ultimate Legacy." She will portray Ricky's Mother-n-law in "Date My Dad."

Raquel Welch - "The Ultimate Legacy"
image via: Hallmark Crown Media

Will Verchere-Gopaulsingh - of Hallmark's "A Country Wedding" and "When Calls the Heart" and the UP TV Movie "Welcome Home," will portray Cole, according to IMDB.

Will Verchere-Gopaulsingh - "Welcome Home" / image via: UP-TV

Natasha Wilson - of Hallmark's TV Movie "My Boyfriends' Dogs" will portray Ricky's deceased wife, Isabella.

Natasha Wilson - image via: IMDB

Karen Holness - of Hallmark movies "Wedding Planner Mystery," "The Convenient Groom," "Garage Sale Mystery: The Art of Murder," "Every Christmas Has a Story," "A Rose for Christmas," "Framed for Murder: A Fixer Upper Mystery," "Signed, Sealed, Delivered: Higher Ground" and more! In "Date My Dad," she will portray Dr. Jackie Cooper.

Karen Holness - (pictured on left, forefront)
"Signed, Sealed, Delivered: Higher Ground"
image via: Hallmark Crown Media

Cindy Busby - of the TV series UP's Heartland and Hallmark's "Cedar Cove," and the TV movies "Unleashing Mr. Darcy" and "Hailey Dean Mystery: Murder, with Love" will also star in this series. (Could she be possibly be a friend or love interest of Ricky's?)

Cindy Busby - "Unleashing Mr. Darcy"
image via: Hallmark Crown Media

Matty Finochio - of the Hallmark movies "Kiss at Pine Lake" (with Barry Watson, by the way!), "Window Wonderland," "So You Said Yes," "Autumn Dreams," and UP TV Movies "Far From Home" (also with Barry Watson!) and "Season's Greetings." (not sure, yet, who he will portray in "Date My Dad." My guess is Ricky's friend, but we'll see!)

Matty Finochio - A Kiss at Pine Lake
image: screen - capped from Hallmark Channel movie

Lisa Durupt - of the Hallmark mystery series "Murder She Baked" plus "The Irresistible Blueberry Farm," "Operation Christmas," "A Dream of Christmas," and more... will also have a role in this TV series.

Lisa Durupt - "A Dream of Christmas"image via: Hallmark Crown Media

With such a great cast - I'm hoping this will also be a terrific family show!

Does this look like something you plan to watch? If so, which Actor or Actress above are you most excited or interested to see in this project?

By the way, this weekend on UP -- you can see Barry Watson and Matty Finochio in "Far From Home" - Sunday night, February 19, 2017 at 9pm (EST) and you can see Lilah Fitzgerald in "A Girl's Best Friend" also Sunday night, February 19, 2017 at 11pm (EST).

If you are intrigued by this upcoming Television series... "Date My Dad," then be sure to stay tuned here at "It's a Wonderful Movie" for news & updates and look for it to premiere (according to deadline.com) in June on UP!

Premiering this Weekend on TV... 2 weeks before Easter!

The first day of Spring has come this week and Easter Sunday is on it's way! I'm sure you've seen the commercials and stores filled with baskets, bunnies, and candy; however, in honor of this upcoming holy holiday, this Sunday UP-TV will have the premiere of...

NOAK'S ARK

Premieres Sunday March 22, 2015

at 7 PM/6c. on UP-TV

 

Additional Airings:

March 22, 2015 at 9 PM/8c. & 11PM/10c.

March 27, 2015 at 9 PM/8c. & 11PM/10c. 

March 29, 2015 at 5 PM/4c.

via UP-TV: The UP Premiere Movie "Noah's Ark," is a retelling of the biblical story of Noah and The Ark. Noah, a farmer and family man, is instructed by an angel to build an ark in the middle of a desert in order to save both his family and the faithful from a devastating flood. A seemingly impossible task, especially when his sons refuse to believe him and help, Noah risks ridicule and humiliation from the degenerate townsfolk as well as his loving but exasperated family, in his quest to carry out his God-given task. Co-produced with the BBC, "Noah's Ark" is a timeless tale; a story of family and faith; about one man's belief and fixation with building the ark which will ultimately save his family and mankind. It is an obsession which leads to the fragmentation of his family, a test of their faith in their father and their father’s faith in God and everything he believes in.

For additional details on Noak's Ark, see: http://itsawonderfulmovie.blogspot.com/2015/03/discover-journey-of-faith-in-noahs-ark.html.



Also this weekend, the Hallmark Channel will have the cable premiere of...

The Chateau Meroux

 

Premieres Saturday March 21, 2015

at 9PM/8c on the Hallmark Channel

Please note: This movie was first released on DVD in 2012, but this will be it's first premiere on TV. The DVD of 'The Chateau Meroux' is rated 'PG-13', however, I noticed it is has a television rating of 'TV-PG'. Whether or not, it has been edited for TV, I do not know... but, I did want to caution that many of the reviews on Amazon, say this movie contains many "awkward sexual jokes and innuendos". I wanted to be certain you were all aware of this before watching. You can see reviews on Amazon.com.

Storyline: Big city girl Wendy moves to Napa Valley after inheriting her father's struggling winery and soon falls in love with both the business and local boy Chris. But things get complicated when she learns that Chris is the son of her chief competitor.

See my page on The Chateau Meroux for more details.

Whether you watch a movie...

a basketball game...

or simply just enjoy these first few days of Spring...

I hope you all have a Wonderful Weekend!

God Bless, Net

 

***

Barry Watson and Marla Sokoloff star in "The Chateau Meroux"

MOVIE REVIEW

Movie: The Chateau Meroux

Network: Hallmark Channel

Original TV Air Date: March 21, 2015

Rated: PG-13

*This movie first came out in 2011, and was released on DVD in 2012.

*Reviews appear to be mixed on this movie at Amazon. I was surprised to see many reviewers say the movie has many "awkward sexual jokes and innuendos". While I like both Marla Sokoloff and Barry Watson, as actors, I wanted to be sure to share this - because this doesn't sound like the "G" rated movies we are used to, on the Hallmark Channel.

DVD Cover

CAST:

Marla Sokoloff
Barry Watson
Amanda Righetti
Christopher Lloyd
Taylor Negron
Daniel Bastreghi
Jeffrey Weissman

PLOT:

Big city girl Wendy moves to Napa Valley after inheriting her father's struggling winery and soon falls in love with both the business and local boy Chris. But things get complicated when she learns that Chris is the son of her chief competitor.


Movie Review:

As I stated above:
Reviews appear to be mixed on this movie at Amazon. I was surprised to see many reviewers say the movie has many "awkward sexual jokes and innuendos". While I like both Marla Sokoloff and Barry Watson, as actors, I wanted to be sure to share this - because this doesn't sound like the "G" rated movies we are used to, on the Hallmark Channel.


See or Skip:

Coming...


--

"Santa Con", a Lifetime Christmas Movie

MOVIE REVIEW

Santa Con

Network: Lifetime

Original Air Date: December 13, 2014

 

CAST:

Barry Watson ... Nick DeMarco
Melissa Joan Hart ... Rose DeMarco
Melissa Sagemiller ... Carol Guthrie
Scott Grimes ... John Guthrie
John Ratzenberger ... Warden
Jaleel White ... Paul Greenberg
Tucker Meek ... Billy Guthrie
Wendy Williams ... Pastor Ruth
Alimi Ballard ... Steve Repperton
Matthew Porter ... Walter Banfield
P.J. Marino ... Foreman
Dahn Ballard ... Olivia
Andrea Cirie ... Mrs. Stanwyck
Lucy DeVito ... June
Michael Patrick Lane ... Bartender
Brian J. Carter ... Ernie
Matthew O'Connor ... Phil
Mitch Longley ... Mr. Waxman
David Boston ... Corrections Officer

 

PLOT:

via Fairfield-Sun:

A Lifetime Channel spokesperson says "the movie’s plot centers on a con-man whose dirty deeds earn him a court-ordered stint as a department-store Santa. According to Lifetime’s description of the film, when the ex-con-turned-Santa carelessly promises to bring a boy’s estranged parents back together, he decides to make good on his word."


Via Lifetime: Small-time con man Nick DeMarco (Barry Watson) is ordered by his parole officer to take a minimum-wage job as a department store Santa during the holidays…and he hates it. Near the end of his first shift, he hastily promises a young boy, Billy (Tucker Meek), that Santa will bring his estranged parents back together by Christmas. When his sister Rosemary (Melissa Joan Hart) hears this, she is livid and can’t believe he would break a little boy’s heart with an empty promise. After a long night of soul searching – and with the help of an insightful female pastor (Wendy Williams) – Nick decides to make good on his promise to the child, somehow. But after meeting the boy’s mother Carol (Melissa Sagemiller), will Nick ultimately choose to put the happiness of others ahead of his own?

image credits below.

Movie Review:

Coming...


See or Skip:

Coming...

--
Image Source:
Melissa Joan Hart - Pacific Coast News
Barry Watson - Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images North America
John Ratzenberger - http://ratzenberger.com/meet-john-ratzenberger/

New on TV this Weekend: "Chance At Romance", "Far From Home", and "When Calls The Heart" ~ The Dance!

If you aren't "far from home" this weekend, then there's a "chance" you might enjoy 2 New Movies + an all new episode of the drama series "When Calls the Heart", directed by Michael Landon Jr.

On Saturday Night,

you can see actress Erin Krakow in

the newest Hallmark Channel Romantic Comedy

for Valentine's Day: "Chance at Romance"

 

Premieres Saturday Feb 8 at 7 PM est. Repeats at 10 PM est.

Plot details: Samantha Hart is delighted when her online “Chance at Romance” to famous photographer Heath Madsen eventually results in Heath sending her a first class ticket to visit. Upon arriving for what she expects to be a romantic weekend, however, she learns... (click to read more)
 

 

Following this new Movie Premiere,

you can see an all new episode of

"When Calls the Heart" on the Hallmark Channel

Episode 5 : "The Dance"

 

Premieres Saturday Feb 8 at 9 PM est.

Repeats Sunday at 12 PM and 10 PM est.

 

Plot details: When a group of new male miners comes to Coal Valley, many of the town's women get caught up in the idea of the single men. One of the new miners begins courting Elizabeth and Jack seems to have concerns that resemble jealousy.

 

 

On Sunday Night,

you can see actor Barry Watson in

the newest UP Original Movie 

"Far From Home"

 

 

Plot details: Barry Watson plays Nicholas Bell, who angrily left his small island town after a terrible fight with the uncle who raised him and owned the local newspaper where Nick began his writing career. After cutting off all ties with his uncle and going... (click here to read more)

 

 

Also, the Olympic Games begin this weekend.

Are you a fan of the games? Do you have a favorite sport?

Go "Team U.S.A.!!!"

 

If you catch any of these new movies,

be sure to stop back by and give us your review!

 

See the Family TV Schedule

for times airing.

 

Click on the Show Titles for more info:

Chance at Romance

Far From Home

When Calls the Heart

 

Whatever you do...

I hope you all have a Wonderful Weekend!

 

Barry Watson stars in "Far from Home", an UP Original Movie

MOVIE REVIEW

Far from Home

Network: UP Original Movie

Original Air Date: February 9, 2014

CAST:

Barry Watson ... Nicholas Bell
Stefanie von Pfetten
Barbara Pollard
Eli Goree
David Allan Pearson
Patricia Harras
Keith Martin Gordey
Lorne Cardinal
Christina Jastrzembska
Paul McGillion ... Graham Westlake
Venus Terzo
Aleks Paunovic ... Dale Cottonwood
Trevor Lerner ... Ray Schugren
Wesley MacInnes ... Writing Class Student

PLOT:

Barry Watson (well known as Matt Camden in the TV drama series 7th Heaven) plays Nicholas Bell, who angrily left his small island town after a terrible fight with the uncle who raised him and owned the local newspaper where Nick began his writing career. After cutting off all ties with his uncle and going out on his own, Bell wrote a wildly successful novel, Broken Windows, which led critics to declare him to be the “voice of his new generation.”

After 15 years of failure to come up with a meaningful follow-up novel, Bell settles into teaching undergraduate writing at a small university. When he learns thast his uncle has died, Bell returns to his hometown for the funeral, suffering one mishap after another. The local townspeople are glad to see the famous homegrown talent return — at least partially because his uncle left him the family’s local paper and key property. Eager to divest himself of the newspaper and return to teaching, Bell finds himself wedged in the middle of a bitter fight over the future of the island — and face to face with the real reason behind what sent him so far from home for so long.

Movie Review:

They say you can’t go home again...

Old wounds that were once buried in the past, come again to the surface when Nicholas Bell, teacher and writer, returns to his hometown, following the death of his uncle.

Since the two have been estranged for many years, it is a complete surprise to Nick, when he learns his Uncle Charley has left him his business, the local newspaper, The Beacon. Nick thought he has closed that chapter in his life long ago.

No love is lost between Nicholas and the past, as he is eager to pay his respects, sell off the paper and go back to his life. However, a phone call from the school comes one day and he learns he has lost his teaching position at the university.

With no job to return to, Nick is left wondering what to do. He has no prospects of writing another great novel since his one and only bestseller, “Broken Windows” and he makes it clear to his uncle's attorney, Libby Wainscott, that he has no interest in the island, or the paper.

My favorite scenes in the movie are when people ask Nicholas what book he is currently writing and he gives them all wild crazy story plot ideas. It’s quite funny, especially when Irene, one of the townspeople and book store owner, asks him with great enthusiasm and excitement, and he tells her a wonderful historical story based in the modern day, at Walmart. Her reaction is priceless!

The townspeople are so enthusiastic over Nicholas’ return and are hopeful he can help them, as a famous writer, save the newspaper, which is failing financially, and Marrow Island, which is about to be taken over by greedy land owners and corrupt bankers.

Nick is at a crossroads now, in his life, yet with help from new and old friends, on the island, he has found himself in the midst of helping to turn things around.

They say you can’t go home again... but for Nicholas Bell, they were wrong!



See or Skip:

See. It is a nice story, and once you get into it, you find yourself cheering on Nicholas and the town to save their island from the land developers.

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Hallmark's "Kiss at Pine Lake" & GMC's "Smitty" Premiere this Weekend!

On SATURDAY Night, MAY 19, 2012:

Kiss at Pine Lake, a Camp "Romantic Comedy" Movie, premieres on the Hallmark Channel at 8 PM and repeats at 10 PM. Movie stars Barry Watson, well known as Matt Camden on 7th Heaven.



*See Promo Video:





On SUNDAY Night, MAY 20, 2012:

Smitty, a Family "Dog" Movie, premieres on GMC at 7 PM and repeats at 9 PM and 11 PM! This movie stars Academy Award winning Actress, Mira Sorvino.



*See Promo Video:




Hope you enjoyed the previews - and will also enjoy the movies this weekend, too!

*See the Kiss at Pine Lake Page, for more Movie Details and Pictures of the Camp!

*Check out the Smitty Page to see an adorable Picture of the dog, named Smitty, driving a John Deere Lawn Mower - it's soooo cute!


The Family TV Schedule includes the times airing for these movies and more!

Kiss at Pine Lake - Hallmark Channel Movie

MOVIE REVIEW

Kiss at Pine Lake

Network: Hallmark Channel

Original Air Date: May 19, 2012

CAST:

Barry Watson ... Luke Garvey
Mia Kirshner ... Zoe McDowell
Bill Engvall ... Mr. McDowell (Zoe's Dad)
Brennan Elliott ... Pete Sherman
Matty Finochio ... Tommy
Billy Mitchell ... Suit
Cole Heppell ... Wayne
Victoria Bidewell ... Erica Taft
Adam DiMarco ... Young Tommy
Sarah Desjardins ... Young Zoe
Amanda Kierszenblat ... Young Erika

PLOT:

Luke Garvey, a philanthropic entrepreneur, buys his uncle's Camp Pine Lake for sentimental reasons - to preserve his childhood memories - only to find himself as the new owner of a sinking business. He is disheartened when he realizes the camp may get shut down for safety code violations. Zoe McConnell, Luke's girlfriend from camp years ago, is the point person in her development firm assigned to convince Luke to sell his new land. When the two meet, they rekindle an old flame, and Zoe agrees to help Luke any way she can to save their favorite, childhood retreat. They must also learn to reconcile their past with their future.


More PLOT DETAILS from Hallmark
(May Contain Some Movie Spoilers):

On the last day of camp, fifteen year old Luke Garvey and Zoe McDowell are about to share their first kiss, when they are interrupted by Zoe's dad (Engvall). Now, fifteen years later, destiny is about to come calling. Luke (Watson) is now a philanthropic entrepreneur, who recently purchased his uncle's Camp Pine Lake for sentimental reasons, only to find out the camp may get shut down for safety code violations; and Zoe (Kirshner) is the point person in her upscale development firm assigned to convince the new camp owner, who prefers to remain anonymous, to sell his land. As she prepares to head back to camp, Zoe confesses to her best friend Erica (Bidewell) she is sad to hear Camp Pine Lake is rundown and she thinks often of Luke, her teenage crush.

When Zoe arrives, she is stunned to learn that Luke is the new owner. This changes everything for Zoe when she realizes Luke isn't interested in making a profit, he wants it to stay open. But feeling cornered by her boss, Zoe agrees to use her friendship with Luke to their advantage. As the two get reacquainted, Zoe feigns support and Luke misunderstands, thinking she is there as an investor. But as the conversation drifts to their teenage years, Zoe gets upset with Luke, as too many memories come back and she runs away, dropping her cell phone. With time running out and only two weeks to bring the camp up to code, Tommy (Finochio), Luke's right-hand man and accountant suggests selling to a developer, who Luke immediately recognizes as the logo on Zoe's cell phone. Luke is disgusted with Tommy for going behind his back and he feels betrayed by Zoe. Zoe apologizes for not being truthful about the development deal and asks for a second chance and for their "first" kiss. As they rekindle an old flame, Zoe agrees to help Luke save their childhood retreat.

Movie Review:

Get out you Sunscreen and Calomine Lotion... It’s a trip back to Summer Camp... a trip that takes Luke and Zoe back to the place where they were young and first fell in love with each other.

The movie begins with a young Luke and Zoe, together at Pine Lake with their friends. It’s the end of Summer... and they are saying goodbye, yet promising to call or write.

But time slips by and 15 years later they are now adults, but Luke isn’t altogether “Grown up”. He still acts like a big kid, even though he is the anonymous president of a company, Zeppo Enterprises, he has created with his “nerdy-type” best friend. In the midst of all of this, Luke’s Uncle Charlie has sold him the camp at Pine Lake, which is sadly, breaking down and on the verge of being shut down. It’s up to Luke to do what he can to save it, even though, he can’t afford it – do to giving so much of his money, to other charities and causes.

Zoe, too, has grown up and moved on with her life. She is hoping to earn an executive position at Sherman Leonard, which is exactly what she wants – because it will mean financial success and security, if she can get a certain piece of property to be sold. And, that property is Pine Lake and of course, her old crush, Luke, is now the owner- who is determined to keep the camp going. It’s a blast to see Luke try to fix repairs at the camp, by himself, since he cannot afford to hire help. He even falls off the roof!

The questions become – will Zoe be sentimental about the past and give up on Luke selling out or will Luke give into financial pressures when Zoe says they can’t re-live the past.

It’s a satisfying and sweet story of love lost and found again. I loved the way they weaved the stories of the past with the future... and the younger actors who portrayed the characters today – were fantastic – great matches!

Barry Watson was extra fun and so naturally relaxed, comedic, and real, as his character, Luke. I couldn't help from laughing, even when he fell off the roof! (A funny side note: his wife used to be on Extreme Makeover Home Edition - so it was pretty funny that he wasn't exactly Mr. Fix-It!)

It’s a very sweet Romantic Comedy... a happy story that is family-friendly and fun! Plus, it includes fireworks on the fourth of July, and of course, a “Kiss at Pine Lake”!


See or Skip:

See... very sweet and fun!


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