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Two new shows are coming in August and September that star many celebrities we have known from 90s TV sitcoms and Hallmark & Great American Family movies.
The shows are called Special Forces: World's Toughest Test, which involves physical and mental challenges, and Totally '90s House, which focuses on home renovations.
I also wanted to share this fun fact... starring in Special Forces with Candace Cameron Bure is Oliver Hudson, who you may recall also starred along with Candace in the Hallmark time-travel movie, Journey Back to Christmas.
Check out the details for both of these new reality shows below...
Special Forces: World's Toughest Test - Season 5
According to FOX’s press release the celebrity recruits will be deployed in Malaysia to take on intense challenges in “the most hostile environment a soldier could operate in... the jungle.”
EW is reporting that "recruits will “adapt to uncomfortable conditions, unpredictable terrain and harsh jungle warfare tasks” as they endure challenges such as a claustrophobic, high-pressure search of an underground bunker to find crucial military weapons, a supply load retrieval while suspended 300 feet above the jungle floor, and a chemical gassing while finding coordinates of an enemy vessel. In this experiment, the celebrities try to survive demanding training exercises led by the Directing Staff (DS) Rudy Reyes, Billy Billingham, Jason “Foxy” Fox, and Jovon “Q” Quarles, an elite team of ex-special forces operatives. They will guide the recruits while testing them to see who has the guts and glory to make it to the end."
Competitors:
Matt Barnes (NBA champion)
Alycia Baumgardner (world champion boxer)
Candace Cameron Bure ("Full House," "Another Sweet Christmas")
David Charvet ("Baywatch," "Melrose Place")
Brandi Glanville ("The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills")
Collin Gosselin ("Jon & Kate Plus 8")
Oliver Hudson ("The Cleaning Lady," "Rules of Engagement")
LeSean McCoy (NFL Super Bowl champion)
Maxim Naumov (Olympic figure skater)
Ruby Rose ("Batwoman," "Orange Is the New Black")
George Santos (politician)
Hannah Stocking (comedian)
Breana Tiesi ("Selling Sunset")
Alexia Umansky ("Buying Beverly Hills")
Mauricio Umansky ("Buying Beverly Hills")
Premiere Date: Thursday, September 24, at 9/8c. on Fox
Totally '90s House
Hosted by Jaleel White (aka Urkel from Family Matters), this six-episode series is bringing the '90s back but with a serious home makeover twist! Two teams of beloved '90s stars go head-to-head to turn outdated houses into modern masterpieces, all while keeping a little of that retro charm in the mix.
And there's a $25,000 prize waiting at the end of the renovation road for the winning team's charity of choice.
The stars are split into two teams:
Team 1:
Brian Austin Green (Beverly Hills, 90210)
Beverley Mitchell (7th Heaven)
Jodie Sweetin (Full House)
Team 2:
Melissa Joan Hart (Clarissa Explains It All / Sabrina the Teenage Witch)
Keshia Knight Pulliam (The Cosby Show)
Matthew Lawrence (Boy Meets World)
Joey Lawrence (Blossom)
*They will be assisted by HGTV design experts Carter Oosterhouse and Sabrina Soto.
Premiere Date: Wednesday, August 26 at 9|8c on HGTV
Stream the next day on HBO Max
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If you had the choice to be on either one of these series, which one would you choose?
I think both would be fun to watch, but if I had to participate, I would definitely choose the home makeover show! I would never last in a Survivor-type competition. Nope, not me. I mean, I like exercise and I'm fit and all, but I'm just not sure I could endure the jungle. How about you? Please share in the comments below.
The Hallmark Channel is adding to the upcoming Autumn season... the official premiere dates for their October *Fall Into Love* movies!
Think football games, golden leaves, and all the autumn-inspired feels you love with some of Hallmark’s favorites like Lacey Chabert, Wes Brown, Nikki DeLoach, and Warren Christie.
Snuggle in with a blanket and check out the details for these upcoming movies (and more!) below...
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Hallmark Channel:
Home Turf
Premieres: October 4, 2025, at 8pm/7c
Starring: Nikki DeLoach and Warren Christie
Storyline: Cassidy is the president of a small college whose life is thrown for a loop when freshmen on the football team move into her home. Can Logan, the handsome coach, help smooth things over?
Movie Reviews:
🍁 Home Turf - Hi everyone, yep Home Turf is family friendly, funny, it’s set at fall, but could be on at anytime, it’s an enjoyable watch. ~Anonymous
🍁 Home Turf - I am glad to say that yes, Home Turf is family friendly! But, is is worth watching? Well, if you are fans of Nikki and Warren (as I am), then yes, because they are both at the top of their game! They are so good together, and you can see the chemistry develop between these two. And they look like they are having a blast playing off each other!
But, the storyline is too far-fetched for me to recommend it beyond the actors. I mean, who in their right mind would have 5 male college freshman football players go and live unsupervised with the single attractive female college president in her home? Really?! And when the coach has his own living quarters? (Yes, less space, but still...!) And the transformation of these players becoming so sweet and thoughtful...I just couldn't buy it. So bottom line, if you want to watch a fun romance between Nikki and Warren and put the plot aside, go for it. But if you aren't fans of them, you may want to skip this one! ~Anonymous
🍁 Home Turf is definitely chaotic, yet also quite charming. –Maria
🍁 Home Turf - Such a fun, family-friendly movie filled with great energy! The opening is delightfully chaotic (so true, Maria!), and while a few moments feel a bit far-fetched (I’m with you on that, Mark 25) - especially the party scene with everyone singing around the piano. I thought it was sweet, though maybe not the most realistic for college kids today. Still, the heart of the story and the chemistry are excellent. In the end, the love story is good, and I enjoyed the overall message of rediscovering love and the joy of teamwork and trusting others. ~Net
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The Jane Mysteries: Too Much to Lose
Premieres: October 5, 2025, at 9pm/8c
Starring: Jodie Sweetin and Stephen Huszar
Storyline: When a reporter interviewing JANE seeks help to find a missing colleague, Jane takes on the case. IRENE has disappeared after winning a game show, which leads Jane to uncover a web of deceit.
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Haul Out the Halloween
Premieres: October 11, 2025, at 8pm/7c
Starring: Lacey Chabert, Wes Brown, Stephen Tobolowsky, Melissa Peterman, Ellen Travolta
Storyline: New, Halloween-obsessed neighbors inspire residents of Evergreen Lane to haul out their spookiest costumes and décor to become EverSCREAM Lane.
Movie Reviews:
🍁 Haul out the Halloween was clean & funny! ~Anonymous
🍁 Haul Out the Halloween was fun. Much of the quick banter we've come to expect from the other movies. Sure there are references to witches or spells but nothing presenting these as real or that a character thinks are real. There's an implied Christian reference to Halloween originally intended to remember those who are no longer with us...a reference to All Saints Day. ~Keith
🍁 Haul out the Halloween I thought it was mild. No spells. They have the decorating they do on the houses, a baking contest, costume contest. Emily reminiscing about her grandma(the photo of grandma on the wall does move a few times when they straighten it but thats all) It is full of the humor like the first one. P.s. there is a wedding.... :) ~Anonymous
🍁 I’m in the beginning of Haul Out the Halloween and the community is really funny and corky, but all the spooky Halloween stuff is not my taste. I don’t like how as children they were taught by grandma about the goodness of Halloween. I came close to turning it off. I may just skip through so I can enjoy the townspeople. Loved that it starts with a wedding and Jared brought his HOA book with him on his honeymoon ;) ~Abigail
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Haunted Harmony Mysteries: Buried At C
Premieres: October 12, 2025, at 9pm/8c
Starring: Tamera Mowry-Housley, Risteard Cooper, and Marco Grazzini
Storyline: Our favorite music teacher Gethsemane is back again along with her trusted ghost friend Eamon to solve the unexplained death of a sea captain.
Movie Reviews:
🍁 Buried at C... two ghosts for those who wish to avoid that. For those who want a review. It's clean and the mystery was good in it. If you watched the first one and enjoyed it you will like this one. ~Anonymous
🍁 Haunted Harmony Mysteries: Buried at C - I agree. It was well acted, the mystery was pretty good, it was funny people seeing her talk to air and they do a great job incorporating the gorgeous scenery. I don't think the romance is that well done though. Misty
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I hope you all find something fun to look forward to watching this Fall on the Hallmark Channel! 🍁🍃
I'm personally most interested in Home Turf and maybe the new Jane Mystery.
Most of you likely know that Halloween and spooky ghost stories aren’t my thing, but I’d love to hear what you think. Be sure to share your thoughts on these new movies in the comments below.
And can you believe it? This is the very last movie release before the big Christmas movie announcements arrive! Stay tuned! 🎄✨
Before I share this weekend's usual movie post, I want to say that my heart and prayers go out to those affected by the devastating fires in California.
Cameron Mathison (Home Sweet Christmas, Hannah Swensen Mysteries) has shared that he and his family have lost their beloved home in Altadena, and my heart breaks for them, but Praise God, he and his family are all safe. It's hard to even imagine what they and so many others are going through right now. I was encouraged to see the outpouring of love and heartfelt comments to Cameron Mathison on social media from other actors from Great American Family and Hallmark, including Jill Wagner, Brennan Elliott, Candace Cameron Bure, Danica McKellar, Laura Osnes, Autumn Reeser, Antonio Cupo, Alison Sweeney, Barbara Niven, Gabe Hogan, Andrew Walker, Lacey Chabert, Jen Lilley and MANY others.
The news tries to create a tense divide between the networks, but behind-the-scenes, there is no drama. The actors who star in these movies are all friends in real-life, and they wish and pray the absolute best for one another and their families. The true friendship they shared was a true blessing to see at the height of this awful tragedy.
I posted Cameron Mathison's IG video showing the charred remains of his home and his emotional interview with Entertainment Tonight at the end of this post. It is tough and heartbreaking to watch.
My prayers are with all of you who have homes, family and friends, businesses, schools, etc... in this area. May God be with you and protect you all. Please be safe.
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Movie News:
It's hard to transition into talking about movies after this, but I hope, maybe, some who are anxious over what is happening with the fires can relax and escape into a lighthearted movie, at least for a little while. Perhaps, that little bit of normalcy and familiarity can bring them some peace.
I'm posting this weekend's movie news a little earlier - since Hallmark Mystery has a Thursday movie premiere this week, and UPtv has some news, too.
The Hallmark Channel has the next Winter Escape premiere, and Great American Family has the cable premiere of a sweet romantic comedy.
Plus, I have news on three popular TV series, and INSP and Western Bound honor Law Enforcement on Law Enforcement Day, which is on Thursday, January 9th!
Storyline: Jane seeks justice for a teenager who’s wrongfully imprisoned for murder. She and Detective John work together to prove the teen’s innocence and help reunite him with his mother.
Note: This movie previously premiered on Hallmark+
Movie Reviews:
🔴🔎 Review: The Jane Mysteries: A Deadly Prescription -
Family-friendly? Yes -
Recommend? Nope -
I did not watch the Jane Mystery from last year, so maybe there was something in that movie that would have made me appreciate this one a bit more. Or maybe not. Anyway, I am starting from scratch with this series. And it is a big No for me. Because...
* The mystery is boring, and it is not too difficult to solve. Also, the culprit is shown about 2/3 into the movie.
* The acting is bad. Jodie Sweetin may be okay in some romcoms, but in a more serious role like this, she is in over her head. She overacts and simply cannot be taken seriously. Stephen Huszar, on the other hand, was too low key and seemed like he was never into his role. And there is absolutely no chemistry between these two.
* The script has too many cringe-worthy subplots and one-liners which make Jodie's character come across at times as silly or careless or unknowledgeable or rude.
* And what is with the songs? Jodie must have in her contract that she is to sing a few songs in these movies, because, while yes she is a very good singer, they are uncalled for and stop the flow of the movie.
Here's an example that includes some of the problems I have mentioned: Jodie and Stephen enter a nightclub where they are to be inconspicuous. The owner tells Jodie the singer can't perform and can she step in(?!), and the next thing you know she is belting out this song on stage like she has been singing it her whole life!
Okay, I guess you can tell that I didn't care for this movie at all. I will not be bothering with the other two movies in this series, so. sorry, I won't be doing any other Jane Mystery movie reviews. -Mark25
🔴🔎 The Jane Mysteries: A Deadly Prescription - This is the second film in The Jane Mysteries, and I’m still not feeling that certain spark between Jodie Sweetin and Stephen Huszar’s characters.
The relationship I appreciate the most is the one between Jane (Jodie Sweetin) and the woman who plays her aunt. Since her aunt has been going through a hard time since her husband’s passing, it’s nice to see Jane being there for her and continuing to search for clues to his cold cases.
Which gets me to my next point… this is a murder mystery; therefore, the movie is best suited for pre-teen age and up. Otherwise, it is a family-friendly movie.
The mystery itself is fairly intriguing with a number of suspects.
If any of you are fans of the Christmas movie, The Most Wonderful Time of the Year (you know, the one with Uncle Ralph), then you might recognize one of the suspects as the guy Jen is supposed to marry, Richard (the guy with the shiny shoes). His hair is a little longer in this mystery, so he looks a little different, but yeah, it’s him. I did a quick check of his IMDB, and it looks like this is his first movie with Hallmark since TMWTOT. Interesting, huh?
Anyway, if you really enjoy mysteries, then you might want to check this one out. ~Net
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Thursday, January 9, 2025:
Hudson & Rex
Season 2 Premiere
Season 2 - Episode 1:
A Man of Consequence
Charlie and Rex have a run-in with a wanted criminal when his past catches up with him.
Hudson & Rex
Airs Thursdays at 8 pm ET. on UPtv
*Note: I have seen this episode. This is a mystery series with some violence, so it is best suited for a mature audience.
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Friday, January 10, 2025:
Christmas Movie Reminder
Christmas classics return on Friday nights! We get THREE Christmas movies on Great American Family!!!
Friday, January 10, 2025:
Great American Family:
A Kindhearted Christmas - 6pm/5c.
Once Upon a Christmas Wish - 8pm/7c.
A Dash of Christmas - 10pm/9c.
Hallmark Family:
Heaven Down Here - 6pm/5c.
Miracle in Bethlehem, PA - 8pm/7c.
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Friday, January 10th through Sunday, January 12, 2025:
INSP and Western Bound's Special Programming in Honor of National Law Enforcement Day
INSP:
Friday, 1/10 – Sunday, 1/12: Behind the Badge: Salute to Law Enforcement
FRIDAY, 1/10
9p Jesse Stone: Death in Paradise
11p Blue Ridge
SATURDAY, 1/11
2p Cahill, United States Marshal
4p Jesse Stone: Night Passage
9p Hang 'Em High
SUNDAY, 1/12
2p Seven Ways from Sundown
4p Jesse Stone: Stone Cold
9p Texas Rangers
WESTERN BOUND:
Saturday, January 11 & Sunday, January 12: And Justice for All: Salute to Law Enforcement
SATURDAY, 1/11
Noon 12p County Line
8p Yuma
SUNDAY, 1/12
Noon 12p Blue Ridge
6p The Warrant
8p The Warrant: Breaker’s Law
NOTE: Most of these shows/movies have crime and violence that is best suited for a mature audience. The theme is typically centered around good triumphing over evil.
Storyline: Emma needs to get to Antarctica to reach her father and travels to South America but can't get on a boat for the last leg. She sneaks onto a cruise ship and meets engineer Andy.
Season 17, Episode 1: The Path Less Traveled
Amy is surprised when a very pregnant Mallory shows up at the ranch with a wild horse; Jack and Tim face new competition, and Lou grapples with a familiar opponent in her campaign to be reelected.
Storyline: When the comic book craze sweeps Hope Valley, Elizabeth teaches her students through nature. Rosemary launches a radio show, and Lucas meets a new political player.
Hopefully, you all will enjoy one of the movies or TV shows this weekend.
It's heartwarming to see the Christmas movies back on Friday nights. I'm always in the mood for a Christmas movie all year round, so I'm delighted to have these return. GAF will have three this weekend and the next! (Christmas Schedule)
I've also seen the 1st episode of Hudson & Rex, season 2; it is another fascinating mystery for the series with lots of interesting plot twists. (Please note: due to violence, it is best suited for a mature audience)
As for the rest of the movies and shows, I haven't pre-screened them. I would love to hear your thoughts on them after they air.
I haven't seen Heartland in a long while, but I'm thrilled to see that Mallory is returning for this special episode.
I want to commend INSP and Western Bound for honoring our law enforcement. As we've seen with the fires in California, it is the law enforcement, firefighters, and EMT who go into danger when the citizens leave for safety. I am grateful for all they do to keep us safe. God bless and protect them all.
Have a Blessed,
Peaceful Weekend, Everyone,
Net
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Sharing His Love:
"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
~Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV)
images: Hallmark Media / Great American Media
Cameron Mathison's home after the fires:
(click image below to watch video)
Happy weekend, everyone! Even though this is technically the last full weekend of Summer, I'm sharing Hallmark Channel's next Fall Into Love movie premiere, plus the newest rom-com on Great American Family and a new mystery premiering, of course, on Hallmark Mystery.
See all the details below, including movie reviews from Allie B., Megan, and me.
Plus, be sure to share your thoughts on these new movie premieres in the comment section beneath this post.
Storyline via Hallmark: As Birdie and Alden Case’s relationship strengthens, they discover a mutual interest for True Crime. But when their favorite podcaster is found dead, it is up to The Cases to listen to the clues.
Storyline via Great American Family: Jamie, an aspiring filmmaker, heads back to her hometown for some inspiration. She finds it in ex-boyfriend, Nick, who still works at the small-town movie theater where they both first fell in love.
🎬 Love’s Second Act - This is a lighthearted, family-friendly rom-com. The movie was a little slow for me, at times, but it was still a nice watch. It’s the standard story of a woman, Jamie, played by Jodie Sweetin, who leaves her hometown years ago, then she returns and reconnects with her family and her childhood sweetheart, Nick, played by Tilky Jones.
Of course, Nick's family business, the local theater, is in danger of being sold by Nick’s father (played by George Wendt, famously known as Norm on the sitcom "Cheers"). The theater is a special, memorable place for Nick and Jamie, where they worked together as teenagers.
A side note for "Full House" fans… I thought it was kind of funny that Jodie played the older sister, and her sister’s name, of all names, was Stephanie.
Overall, "Love’s Second Act" is a pleasant, feel-good movie with a happy ending. ~Net
Storyline: After losing her fortune, an heiress moves to a rural farm where she mistakes her handsome neighbor for the handyman. To live up to her family's legacy, he helps her compete at the county fair.
🍁 I watched The Heiress and the Handyman on HMN, the guy who plays Jodie Sweetin’s assistant does have mannerism of a gay man, but nothing is ever said about it. He appears twice for a total of about 3 minutes, at the beginning & end. The movie is okay, but the story has been done. Think Harvest Moon, but this movie isn’t nearly as good. It felt cheesy somehow and Jodie’s acting felt stiff, kind of fake. It’s a one time watch for me. -Allie B
🍁 Heiress & Handyman was really cute. It compares well with UPTV type of movies. The "gay" assistant...nothing was ever said clarifying he was gay. The movie needed more, but was worth a watch for the pig & animal scenes alone. It feels very traditional with hints of Harvest Moon, but not as comedic unfortunately. It's not a bad watch at all & is actually fall themed. I didn't even notice the wig people seem to be obsessing over. –Megan
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Programming Notes:
(Highlighting some of the best movie classics airing this weekend)
Great American Family:
Saturday - Ciders and Sunsets, Fall Into Winter, The Engagement Plan
Sunday - Harmony from the Heart, Identical Love, Home for Harvest
Hallmark Channel:
Saturday - Road Trip Romance, Pearl in Paradise, A Picture of Her
Sunday - My One & Only, Feeling Butterflies, Sweet Autumn, The Story of Us
Hallmark Mystery:
Saturday and Sunday - Hailey Dean Mysteries marathon
Hallmark Family:
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of Little House on the Prairie and watch the 10 Day Marathon of the entire series starting this Friday at 9/8c!
In honor of the 50th Anniversary of Little House on the Prairie, Hallmark Family is airing EVERY episode - beginning Friday, September 13th at 9pm EST. and ending next weekend on Sunday, September 22nd at 11:30pm EST.
Merit Street:
See classic Great American Family movies on Merit Street-
Saturday- Just in Time and A Taste of Tuscany
Sunday- Retreat to Paradise and One Perfect Match
UPtv:
Saturday - Aloha with Love, The Nature of Romance, Love's Sweet Recipe
Sunday - Mechanic's of Love, Hearts on Fire, Love in Wolf Creek, Love on Fire
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I hope you all have a nice weekend. Please know that my prayers are with those of you who are in the path of the storms from Hurricane Francine. Be safe, everyone, and take care.
As for the three NEW movies airing this weekend... well, without going into a lot of detail, I'll just say I know some of you aren't too keen on the actors involved with these films due to various statements made in the past. I absolutely understand that. However, for those of you who are planning to watch one or more of the new movies mentioned above, I hope the reviews above will be helpful to you.
Note: I have not pre-screened the new mystery, The Cases of Mystery Lane: Death is Listening. If you'd like to share a review after this movie premieres, please do so in comments below.
In addition to starring in two new movies this weekend, Jodie Sweetin actually has a third premiere. Her latest mystery, The Jane Mysteries: A Deadly Prescription, premiered on Hallmark+ (streaming service) on September 10th. Have any of you seen it, yet?
Whether you watch something new or old, I hope you find something to enjoy this weekend. I just love that Hallmark Family is playing all of the episodes of Little House on the Prairie in honor of their 50th Anniversary! I may get lost in that marathon! Be sure to visit my Little House post here to see more details and my favorite Little House episodes.
Fall in love this September on Great American Family with four rom-com Cable TV movie premieres.
Plus, look for an all-new mystery premiere in October.
See details below...
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The Engagement Plan
Premiere date: September 7, 2024
Starring: Jack Schumacher, Ted McGinley, Mia Pollini, Eva La Rue, Emily Topper, Eric Lutz, Judd Nelson and Faith Ford
Storyline: In The Engagement Plan, Wade (Schumacher) has a plan for everything! Wade’s plan to propose to his girlfriend, Kayla (Pollini) may be the crowning achievement of plans. With a 3-carat diamond ring in tow and reservations booked at the Waldorf for his parents, Dash and Margot, (LaRue, Nelson) and Kayla’s parents, Ed and Mama Marilyn (McGinley, Ford), Wade marvels at the absolute perfection of his engagement plan. Until his plan hits a dead end on a dirt road, a country road. Kayla changes the plan to have Wade meet at her family’s farm to help her mom and dad, whose cow is expecting a calf any day. Dressed in business best, Wade – a fish out of water – has an unexpected – and definitely an unplanned encounter with a family who is not convinced he is right for Kayla. Then Wade meets her ex-boyfriend who tries to prove it.
Movie Review:
🍁 The Engagement Plan – This heartwarming film is family-friendly and filled with faith!
Wade, a financial analyst, thinks he has his whole life figured out according to his plan, but when he visits his girlfriend Kayla’s family at their farm, he steps out of his comfortable city shoes, and begins to learn in a deeper way the wisdom in the words from Proverbs 16:9, “A man’s heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.”
While Kayla’s parents aren’t sure if Wade is the right man for their daughter to marry, Wade is determined to prove them wrong.
The setting of this film on a family farm near harvest time is such a beautiful backdrop for this story. It was wonderful to see the way Kayla’s family trusted in and leaned on The Lord, in the big and simple things.
Some of the comedy is a bit silly and, perhaps, outlandish at times, but it made me laugh, so I hope it does the same for you. The faith elements to the story far outweigh any of the silly antics.
The entire cast is excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing veteran actors: Eva LaRue, Judd Nelson, Faith Ford, and Ted McGinley portray Wade and Kayla’s parents. Since Faith and Ted have worked together before, on the sitcom “Hope & Faith” and the movies: “Karen Kingsbury’s The Bridge,” Part One and Two, it was plain to see their natural ease with portraying husband and wife. I was also touched by the biblical wisdom they imparted to both Kayla and Wade.
The lead actor, Jack Schumacher, who portrayed Wade, was, in my opinion, the star of the movie. Whether he was humorous or serious, his performances were excellent throughout. My favorite scene of Jack’s was a quiet moment of reflection and rejection where he talks to God as he's looking around the farm and quotes from the 23rd Psalm, “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want… He maketh me to lie down in green pastures… He restores my soul.” Wade freely admits at a low moment in his life he needs his soul restored.
“The Engagement Plan” is a lighthearted, uplifting, and inspiring movie ideal for all ages. I pray it encourages many to grow and flourish in their faith. ~Net
🍁 The Engagement Plan was as great as I anticipated. I hope we see the guy that played Wade in more GAF movies. ~Anonymous
🍁 Loved The Engagement Plan! –Maria
🍁 Before I leave for church, I wanted to let you know we ended up watching The Engagement Plan and enjoyed hearing all of the scripture references. Amazing job, Great American Family! The world needs more movies like this. -Trish
🍁 It was great seeing Faith and Ted together again. GAF should pair them again in a Christmas movie or something. ~Anonymous
🍁 The Engagement Plan had it all.The cast was great and it was genius casting Faith Ford and Ted McGinley in another movie together as husband and wife. The Pure Flix movies have all been so good and have all been the best movies airing on Saturday night, ~Anonymous
🍁 "The Engagement Plan" was another winner! It was funny, heartfelt and an all around lovely movie. I got a kick out of seeing Eva, Judd, Faith and Ted altogether. I absolutely adored the leading man. He reminded me so much of a young Timothy Hutton. And, yes, I am showing my age by saying that. :-) But, seriously the male lead was the best thing about the movie. He was charming and I would love to see him again on GAF. ~Joan
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Love's Second Act
Starring: Jodie Sweetin and Tilky Jones
Premiere date: Saturday, September 14, 2024 at 8/7c
Storyline: Jamie, portrayed by Jodie Sweetin, is an aspiring filmmaker, who heads back to her hometown for some inspiration. She finds it in ex-boyfriend, Nick, played by Tilky Jones, who still works at the small-town movie theater where they both first fell in love.
Movie Reviews:
🎬 Love’s Second Act – (streamed on Great American Pure Flix)
This is a lighthearted, family-friendly rom-com. The movie was a little slow for me, at times, but it was still a nice watch. It’s the standard story of a woman ,Jamie, played by Jodie Sweetin ("Full House," "Craft Me a Romance," "The Jane Mysteries") who leaves her hometown years ago, then returns and reconnects with her family and her childhood sweetheart, Nick, played by Tilky Jones ("Christmas Love Letter," "The Charm of Love").
Of course, the family business, the local theater, is also in danger of being sold by Nick’s father (played by George Wendt, famously known as Norm on the sitcom, "Cheers"). The theater is a special memorable place for Nick and Jamie, where they worked together as teenagers.
Overall, it is a pleasant, feel-good movie with a happy ending.
A side note for "Full House" fans… I thought it was kind of funny that Jodie played the older sister, and her sister’s name, of all names, was Stephanie.
I wonder if "Love’s Second Act" might be one of the movies we’ll see on Great American Family later this Summer or early Fall. (Update: I wrote this review on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, and my hunch was right! I'm glad more viewers will have a chance to view this movie, if they like, on Great American Family.) ~Net
🎬 Love's second act is okay. -Maria
🎬 I watched the movie. It was pretty good. I think the lead actress wasn't the best fit. Still better than not Jodie Sweetin movies. ~Misty
🎬Love’s Second Act - I LOVED this movie! Jodie Sweetin and Tilky Jones are a perfect pairing. The story was different, and the plot held enticing hints of what lay ahead. Beautifully written, acted, and directed. I would give it 3 1/2 stars, not perfect, but very near it! 👏👏👏👏 ~aunt_di_77
🎬 Love's Second Act
I think Net has more or less covered all there is to say about this movie. Standard Rom.Com fare which you will have seen many times over. I'm not the biggest fan of Jodie Sweetin nor do I dislike her but I though she and Tilby Jones who although somewhat easygoing combined quite well together
*SPOILERS*
It's one of those where you have to suspend belief - how could the theatre possibly have survived to date, , where did the money come from to buy a new popcorn machine,, the miraculous "saving" of the theatre, Jamie presenting her manuscript which she had returned home to complete to her agent on time etc.
END *SPOILERS*
The secondary cast was fine except for Nick's father who was a ridiculous character.
Taking all this together it shouldn't have worked and I agree it was slow moving at times but maybe because it was my favourite theme of "lovers reunited" I somewhat surprisingly have to say I actually enjoyed it - Florence's rating 7
🎬 Love’s Second Act - It is a hard pass for me! This movie was more than slow it was boring and plain awful. The set seemed so generic and so was the storyline. ~Anonymous
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Love at the Ranch
Premiere date: September 21, 2024
Starring: Laura Mitchell and Jon Cor
Storyline: Sparks fly between a big-city reporter and a ranch owner as she researches the life of the romance novelist that inspired her love for writing.
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Mystery By the Book
Previous title: Key to Love
Starring: Alicia Dea Josipovic and Corey Sevier
Premieres: Saturday, September 28, 2024
Storyline: A bookstore owner (Sevier) is in a difficult relationship with a book cover model (Josipovic) until an antique key found in a false book unlocks their romance.
Movie Reviews:
📖 Mystery by the Book – (I streamed this movie on Great American Pure Flix)
This romantic-comedy is lighthearted, sweet, and endearing. Some of the story is somewhat predictable, but that’s part of the charm that made this movie such an enjoyable watch.
Corey Sevier, who is well-known for a number of TV movies, including “Noel Next Door,” “Everything Christmas,” “Northern Lights of Christmas,” etc… is the true star of this movie, with his portrayal of Josh, an architect and book cover model. His charming personality shined through, as it always does. I felt Corey Sevier was the glue that held this movie together.
In the beginning, I wasn’t certain about the chemistry between Josh and Samantha, who owns and runs the local book store. Samantha and her friend, Brittany, sometimes act like giddy teenagers; however, in spite of that, I still found the movie to be heartwarming and amusing.
It was delightful to watch Josh and Samantha search through Josh’s grandfather’s estate attempting to find a hidden treasure. I especially enjoyed seeing them play dress-up with his grandparent’s clothing and accessories.
Some parts of the movie may be a bit unrealistic, perhaps, but “Mystery by the Book” is a relaxing, family-friendly rom-com that isn’t overly serious, and it leaves you smiling and feeling good inside. ~Net
📖 Review: Mystery By the Book -
Family-friendly? Yes -
Recommend? Yes -
In short, this is a very entertaining movie that held my interest from beginning to end. I felt that the movie shined whenever Alicia and Corey were on the screen together - the chemistry was right-on. The ending that dealt with the contents of the box was nicely done. The only drawback for me, which Net also mentions in her review, was the friend Brittany - she acts like a giddy immature teenage, and I cringed whenever she was on. (She's not the best actress, either.) But this aside, it's a fun movie, and worth at least a watch.~Mark 25
📖 Mystery by the Book is fantastic! ~Maria
📖 Loved Mystery By The Book! ~kit kat
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Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Winemaker
Starring: Candace Cameron Bure, Aaron Ashmore, and Robin Dunne
Premieres: Saturday, October 5, 2024
Storyline: In The Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Winemaker, Ainsley McGregor (Bure) a former Chicago criminologist returns to her hometown of Sweet River, Texas. She has chosen to trade full-time crime work to open Bless Your Arts, a market for artisans to sell crafts and wares. But Ainsley cannot deny her first love is crime solving and accepts a position teaching a criminology class at the local community college. Her skills quickly become a major asset to the quaint town, when a murder occurs at a winery owned by her friend, who now stands accused of the crime. The Sweet River Sheriff, who just happens to be Ainsley’s brother, Ryan, wants her to stay out of the investigation. But, Ainsley knows the pieces of this puzzle do not fit. To help her friend and with the unexpected assistance from some goodhearted local busybodies – Ainsley McGregor is back on the case.
Movie Review:
🔎 "The Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Winemaker"
*NO SPOILERS*
Candace Cameron Bure is back to crime-solving as Ainsley McGregor, a former criminologist from Chicago who recently moved to Sweet River, Texas, to be near her brother, Ryan (the town’s sheriff, played by Robin Dunne), and her friends to live a simpler life away from crime and violence.
However, this isn’t the case when Ainsley and her best friend, Shannon, discover a dead body at the local winery. Much to her brother’s disapproval, Ainsley reluctantly gets roped into solving this mystery with help from her friends in the community and the handsome local fire chief, Jake (played by Aaron Ashmore).
Just a few minutes into the movie, I was already deeply engrossed in this mystery, the interesting, diverse townspeople of Sweet River, and Ainsley’s dearest friends.
Throughout the film, I felt little hints, here and there, of the Aurora Teagarden Mystery and the early years of Murder, She Baked. Much like Aurora, Ainsley has her own group of crime-solving friends, who have made their own club, and like Murder, She Baked, this new Ainsley McGregor Mystery has a warm, tight-knit community feel to it. Instead of having a cat, however, like Hannah Swensen, Ainsley’s most loyal companion is George, her adorable dog, who everyone loves.
As for the mystery, my family and I had a strong suspicion about who the culprit was, which ended up being correct, but that didn’t take away from our enjoyment of the movie at all.
One of the many aspects I thoroughly enjoyed was the wonderful community in Sweet River, which mostly centered on Ainsley’s business – Bless Your Arts, a marketplace for local artisans, including: artists, woodworkers, winemakers, jewelry designers, weavers, and all sorts of locally handcrafted work.
Aaron Ashmore was charming and endearing as Jake Trenton, the Sweet River Fire Chief and Ainsley’s friend and potential love interest, while Robin Dunne was the perfect choice to play Ainsley’s brother, Ryan. It’s obvious Robin and Candace have a wonderful rapport in real life, which translates well on the screen as the two portray siblings who often tease but love each other immensely.
Candace was fantastic as the film’s lead, Ainsley McGregor, who… try as she might, can’t resist crime-solving, even if it means danger for herself. In her debut as this new character, Candace hits every mark with perfection—on the personal, professional, and sleuthing side—as we learn more about who Ainsley is and why she has returned home.
This introduction movie to Ainsley McGregor was such a delightful watch; I look forward to re-watching it and the subsequent mysteries to come. (By the way, a second movie was recently filmed, "The Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Yarn Maker.")
The Ainsley McGregor Mysteries: A Case for the Winemaker is a fun, cozy mystery, and I’m looking forward to more sleuthing with Ainsley and the town of Sweet River! ~Net
🔎 We loved the new Ainsley mystery. My daughter fell in love with George. It was nice how they incorporated him into the whole movie. We can’t wait to see the next one next year. Christie
🔎 It was pretty awful😬And I love Candace Bure’. The writing was subpar and there was absolutely no rapport between Bure’s character and anyone else. Very disappointed. She should have stayed at Hallmark and continued with the Aurora Teagarden mysteries. I won’t be tuning in for anymore Ainsley… ~Anonymous
🔎 The 'Ainsley McGregor' movie was highly entertaining. We really enjoyed the storyline, the mystery and the acting. I have to admit, it was jarring at first getting used to Robin as a sibling instead of love interest for Candace. :-) But, their sibling relationship was believable. We are already looking forward to the next installment. :-) ~Joan
🔎 I throughly enjoyed the CCB mystery. We were introduced to some quirky but lovely members of the community. The only drawback was the actor portraying Jake. His personality just doesn’t counter CCB character. I don’t see him as a supporting character to CCB. I guess I will get use to him. -Gabe’s Mom
🔎 Ainsley - It has major similarities, another murder, solving group disguised as a book club. Nothing different here. ~Anonymous
🔎 A Case for the Winemaker is excellent! I look forward to the next movie coming next year! :) -Maria
🔎 I agree that this had an Aurora Teagarden feel to it. It was nice to see a cozy mystery again, having given up on everything Hallmark a couple years ago due to their capitulation to the alphabet mafia.
Not terribly exciting, but not everything has to be. Very limited number of possible suspects, so figuring out the killer (if not the real villain) was not difficult, but it's a start, and there's room for growth -- it's going to be a series, and not a one-off, so that's good.~Glornt
🔎 I thought the movie was better than most on GAF. I enjoyed it and look forward to the next episode. ~GB
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If you've seen any of these movies via Great American Pure Flix or another streaming source, please share your thoughts in comments below.
I have seen Love at the Ranch via some streaming source and I recall it being a sweet, family-friendly film. It was supposed to air on UPtv awhile back, but schedules were changed and this movie was removed from their lineup. It's nice to see this delightful romantic-comedy finally find a home on Great American Family.
You can also read my reviews above for the other Great American Pure Flix movies I've seen.
Please share in comments below which of these movies above you are looking forward to seeing this September/October on Great American Family!
Hello Blog Friends & Followers! My Nickname is Net and more than Anything, I love my Savior, Jesus, and my precious Family! It's my joy to share and review Movies here on this Blog ~ that the entire Family can watch together on TV! Thank YOU so much for stopping by, Please leave a Comment... I enjoy hearing from You! ~ Net
