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Tuesday, November 22, 2022

The Latest Christmas Movie Reviews are Here...





The latest movie reviews are in from the It's a Wonderful Movie family! 

See below...


Great American Family:

πŸŽ„ A Merry Christmas Wish is worth watching. It has a great and festive atmosphere, a beautiful setting, a great acting from Jill Wagner and Cameron Mathison, a heartwarming story. I'm so happy we have the Great American Family, their movies are always great and you can enjoy them without worrying about their content. Oksanka

πŸŽ„ A MERRY CHRISTMAS WISH. For starters, I'm never a fan of love triangle, so I couldn't love this as much as I wished. Cameron Mathison was so charming and Jill Wagner was just wonderful, and I'd watch anything they're on. Both are really great actors and perfect for the roles. The plot is wayyy overdone though. It's another "cookie cutter" type of Christmas movie to me. I wished the storyline was more interesting but it's same old "city girl going back to country" story. It was enjoyable to watch but not a keeper for me. ~CH Mom

πŸŽ„ Review: A Merry Christmas Wish - Family-friendly? Yes - Keeper? Most definitely! - I'm not sure how you can go wrong with having Jill Wagner and Cameron Mathison together in a movie. In my opinion, these are two of the very best actors for these kind of movies! You can tell that they enjoy each other's company - they both seemed to be having fun and even ad-libbing some of their lines to each other. The movie itself seemed like a throwback to the old Hallmark movies of years ago, and the supporting cast - especially the sister and the little girl - were great! One of the best so far this year! ~Mark 25

πŸŽ„ Finally found the time to watch A Merry Christmas Wish, and I loved it! -Maria

πŸŽ„ Christmas at Pine Valley. Not up to Great American past presentations. Built on a Lie from the beginning and then continuing to add on as it went just to justify the first. Definitely not a keeper no matter how it ends. Not really my idea of a strong Christmas movie. ~JoCo

πŸŽ„ Christmas in Pine Valley was quite charming! -Maria

πŸŽ„ Christmas in Pine Valley is family friendly about a reporter named Josh interviews an entrepreneur named Natalie Cameron thinking her company is family owned that not knowing it’s run by her friends. (Review may contain Spoilers) Natalie Cameron is the owner of a successful handmade soap company that garners the attention of a major magazine. The magazine sends a reporter named Josh to profile Natalie’s company thinking it’s a family-run business. Little does he know that Natalie’s business is run by her with the help of longtime family friends, Mary, Carlos, Elsa, & Lisa! Knowing how much the article will help Mary hang on to her struggling Christmas tree farm, Natalie must convince Josh that her “family” and Christmas traditions are all real. As Josh spends time around Natalie & her “family” to write his story, Natalie narrowly avoids blowing her cover, especially when Lisa’s friend named Dave arrives unannounced. Determined not to jeopardize the ruse, Lisa introduces Dave to Josh as Natalie’s fiancΓ©. Everyone struggles to keep up the faΓ§ade of being a family-owned business, & matters only get more complicated when Josh uncovers the truth—just as he & Natalie are falling for each other. Angry about being lied to, Josh plans to leave the farm but, after seeing that Natalie’s business really is a “family” effort, decides to stay to be with Natalie & her so-called family. ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ Christmas in Pine Valley is NOT family friendly in my opinion. Near the end of the movie, a couple is walked in on getting up from the floor or couch with there clothes disheveled and in the process of being removed. It's obvious what was in the process of happening. It could have been totally family friendly if they were walked in on sharing an innocent kiss but this ruined the movie for me. ~J. Adams

πŸŽ„ Review: Christmas Sweethearts - Family-friendly? Yes - Keeper? Ugh! It's not too often when I want a movie to end before it actually does, but this was one of those times. This movie is bad in so many ways! First, the storyline. Ashley will lie and deceive in order to get back with her ex-boyfriend Grant. Grant meanwhile has hooked up with arrogant Bella, although he keeps eyeing Ashley. Liam, Ashley's friend, has romantic feelings for Ashley, but is willing to help Ashley in her deception to win back Grant. People, can't you just be honest and tell each other how you truly feel? How old are you anyway? Which leads me to what I really dislike about this movie. The two leading ladies act like they are teenage schoolgirls. Their mannerisms, their displays of giddiness, their mile-a-minute talking - this really wore on me after awhile. Finally, the whole movie (and especially the ending) just seemed rushed and had a cheap look to it. For me, there is nothing to recommend Christmas Sweethearts. ~Mark 25

πŸŽ„ Christmas Sweethearts was a bit of a dud for me. -Maria

πŸŽ„ Royal Christmas on Ice, just had to review this one...so far it is my favorite one and I've watched it about 4 times already. I love both actors and I noticed one person stated that the actress was too sad, but I think she did a great job portraying someone who had watched her dreams being shattered. I could identify with her. Good chemistry and definitely family friendly. ~Clara

πŸŽ„ I've enjoyed My Favorite Christmas Tree so much! It was a great movie with great actors, very beautiful Christmas tree farm, cosy winter atmosphere, great story, actually two stories: about Christmas tree farm and search for the answers about family ancestry. The leading actors Emma Johnson and Giles Panton were so great together. Recommended! ~Oksanka~

πŸŽ„ My Favorite Christmas Tree is family friendly about Kyla is a genealogy researcher who travels to the charming town of Conifer, hoping to piece together her ancestry. The search leads Kyla to a Christmas tree farm, its stubborn but handsome owner - and, possibly, love. Kyla visits a small town who attempting her ancestry & meets a Christmas Tree Farm owner named Joel ~Anonymous


Hallmark Channel:

πŸŽ„ In Merry Measure was one of the best Hallmark movies they’ve had in years! I was not expecting to like this movie at all, but the humor really drew me in. I didn’t care for the teenage actors, although their singing was great fun. I did enjoy the adult actors and how hilarious they were. This is a must watch, highly recommended, family-friendly movie! I loved their choices in Christmas Carols too! ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ The Royal Nanny was a very unique style of Christmas movie which I enjoyed! Family-friendly and intriguing right from the start! They probably could’ve passed this off as any regular mystery movie, but having it set at Christmas time made it that much better. I do wish there was more humor and that the actors showed more emotion. ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ Christmas at the Golden Dragon. Was not the complete dud I expected it to be. It won't be a keeper for me, but it was oddly entertaining for a one-time watch. It wasn't a traditional Christmas movie, but it was kind of fun and heartwarming to watch all the different lives intersect/connect through the Golden Dragon restaurant; and, yet, at times, it also felt a bit out-of-control and weird (the ending seemed a bit "off the rails" and unbelievable). There were some feel-good moments and some good messages in the movie, as well as some questionable ones. I would say, for the most part, it is family friendly. One dating couple appear to maybe be sharing a bedroom when they go visit their parent's home, but it's not blatantly obvious. A single woman is desperately trying to get pregnant through in vitro fertilization to have a baby all on her own with no husband in the picture (unfortunately, this seems to be a new trend in these movies). That same woman has some strong "feminist" ideas and some other questionable opinions, but, thankfully, her mother sometimes points out the opposing viewpoints. There's a single father with two little girls and for most of the movie I thought he was a widower, but then it turns out he's newly divorced and it's all handled kind of weirdly with the kids (I didn't understand why their mother wasn't a part of their lives at Christmas?? Was she out of town? Maybe I missed something in the beginning?). Overall, a cute and quirky movie that is non-traditional and would be fun to watch if you've exhausted all your other options. (By the way, I can't stand it when these movies throw in very obvious commercials for products and try to make it seem like a natural part of the movie. In this movie we got to extol the wonders of Walmart and Chex Mix. Ugh.) ~~Jane

πŸŽ„ Christmas at the Golden Dragon - We enjoyed "Christmas at the Golden Dragon" as it was a departure from the usual Hallmark Christmas movie formula which is focused solely on romance. It was family-friendly and incorporated multiple story lines that all connected through the Golden Dragon Chinese restaurant and the place it held in each character's heart. The movie would not be interesting to younger children, but I found it heart-warming and engaging, and it even incorporated a scene from a Nativity pageant. I recommend this movie to people who want to watch a little something different this Christmas season. ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ Really enjoyed 'Inventing the Christmas Prince' and very family friendly! ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ I LOVE Three Wise Men And A Baby! So heartwarming sprinkle with funny moments. It's a keeper for me! ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ Three Wise Men And A Baby is family friendly and hilarious, especially in the beginning of the movie. It also helps the brothers work through some issues personally and as brothers. Very sweet ending! ~Joyce in Carolina

πŸŽ„ Three Wise Men and a Baby. I laughed so hard during parts of this movie that I think the neighbors probably heard me! Loved it! It's a keeper for me. These three actors are great together. And, thankfully, Paul Campbell kept his woke agenda out of this one. It was family friendly (there was a single mother who left her baby and there were questions and eyebrows raised by people implying that maybe Andrew was the father - he wasn't - but there wasn't anything explicit said and I think it would be considered by most people to be ok for families). There was a part of the movie where they have one of those neighborhood decorating contests and that part got a bit over-the-top; it's the part where they dress up as wise men for a live nativity scene with the baby. I did not consider it sacrilegious; I myself have been in live nativity scenes. I don't ever expect Hollywood to get it right, they usually mess up anything that has to do with church or prayer or pastors or the meaning of Christmas, and it doesn't matter if it's Hallmark, GAF, or UP - rarely do they truly honor Christ in these movies (and I don't go into these secular movies expecting them to get it right, I just hope they'll give us a nice, clean Christmas movie with warm feelings). The whole decorating contest was a small part of this movie and it was wonky and awkward and could have been left out, but at least in this movie the wise men actually say they've come to see the King. Other than that part of the movie, I thought it was a lot of fun. It wasn't the typical "warm fuzzy feels" Christmas movie, it was more about restoring the relationships between the three brothers and I thought they handled that quite well. There were romances, but they weren't the main thread of the movie. Of course it was all unrealistic but, overall, it was just a lot of fun on a night when I really needed a laugh. ~~Jane

πŸŽ„ Three Wise Men & a Baby is family friendly. It’s hilarious movie. It’s parody modern day of 3 Men & a Baby. Three brothers named Stephan, Taylor, & Luke are surprised when they find themselves forced to care for a baby named Thomas during the holidays, during the journey they begin to rebuild their relationships as brothers while rediscovering their love for Christmas. The 3 Brothers’ Mother named Barbara. Taylor & Fiona, Stephan & Susie, and Luke, Sophie, & a baby Thomas. Stephan mentions the show by name; The Twilight Zone (1959), Stephan refers to Taylor as Mommie Dearest (1981), Taylor refers to Stephan as a pet detective from Ace Ventura: Pet Detective (1994), Luke referred to Michael from 3 Men & a Baby (1987) who found a baby with a baby bag at doorsteps. There’s a young woman named Sophie with her baby Son; Thomas that Luke is holding him. ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ We loved Three Wise Men and a Baby!! Extremely family friendly, hilarious in several parts. Happily the brothers grow in this film with forgiveness for each other and learn to work together for baby Thomas and their Mother (Barbara). The Paul (Michael) Andrew (Luke) and Tyler (Taylor0 were great together. I don't know about a sequel - I don't know how Paul Campbell & Kimberley Sustad can top this script!! We've watched the movie several times and "re-round" the choreographed dance to The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy to see it again (great choreography, btw, and very funny.) I hope it comes out on dvd soon. I was watching my sister when the dance came on because I wanted to see her reaction to it. She laughed until she cried and I was laughing along with her. It's a keeper. This is one of the best Hallmark Christmas movies. ~Namegirl

πŸŽ„ THREE WISE MEN AND A BABY **spoiler alert** Hilarious! And surprisingly heartwarming and touching too. So many scenes that made me chuckle. Loved the unique storyline and the three different personalities of the guys. Not much romance. Family friendly but if you're watching it with younger kids, the story about the baby getting dropped off to one of the leading men (Andrew Walker's character) brought up some conversation that sort of raised my eyebrow and might have a sense of normalizing pregnancy before marriage. I do love the reconciliation that happened between the family, and even with the neighbor. Some of my favorite hilarious moments: - tyler hynes and paul campbell getting the baby to bath after the cookie making fiasco - assembling baby swing - tyler hynes doing a squat putting the baby to sleep - andrew walker grabbed the wrong car seat - the three guys in elf costume - the sugar plum fairy dance ~CH Mom

πŸŽ„ Hi Net! I haven't had much time to watch movies or hang out here, but I just want you to know I still rely on your blog for all my TV movie info and appreciate your efforts so much! I haven't seen many movies so far, but I couldn't miss Three Wise Men and a Baby. That was the one I was most looking forward to out of all of the movies this season, and, happily, it didn't disappoint! It is as hilarious as I thought it would be and also heartwarming and touching. I giggled and laughed out loud throughout, especially at their dance! That was priceless! I also teared up a couple times. I love that it was something different from the usual storyline. The romances are great, but we get so many of those, I appreciate when the story centers around something else, especially when that "something else" is family relationships. I'm particularly partial to stories involving siblings because I have four brothers and one sister of my own who I'm very fond of. The ending was wonderful. Endings are too often abrupt in Hallmark movies, so I loved the more extended wrap-up in this one. I will definitely be watching this movie over and over again, and I'll be surprised if anything else tops it for me this year. ~Amy Lama

πŸŽ„ Three Wise Men and a Baby Wow, I was not expecting to like this movie. I thought for sure I wouldn't, but I was so wrong. It was wonderful, sweet and really funny! Family friendly (just how we like it ;) and I loved how it was about the importance of family. It was sweet to see them have mistakes in the first half, but then improving after they realised to not think of themselves, but of their mother. I loved how they couldn't resist the Baby's First Ornament, and that baby swap thing(in real life, that would have been terrifying!) Another great addition to the film was the women in the movie. It was so kind of them to help out, and I literally said, "ahh," when she brought a casserole. The year later ending was sweet as well, all of them together! The only thing that bothered me was during the pageant scene. You could tell Hallmark did everything they could to not say Jesus Christ's name. They did not even mention that He's our Savior. That scene really made me upset me, and it's a shame because the rest was fantastic! I gotta say it though, the corgi fan in me LOVED that dog Arnold!πŸ˜‚ And I liked Stephen's character, he kinda reminded me of Niles from Frasier. If you have not seen it yet, give it a try. It has it's corny moments, but it was a delight! I think with the story plot it would have made a great Thanksgiving film as well! God Bless and Happy Thanksgiving to all my friends here! ~Abigail

πŸŽ„ Three Wise Men and a Baby. I found this movie really good, except for the Nativity scene. I know it was to be funny and in some ways it was but I found it a little sad that they knew so little about Christ's birth. It was family friendly and I found myself laughing out loud many times (and I'm alone so that is a good feat). I did really appreciate the impact of the baby and taking care of it on the brothers. ~Clara

πŸŽ„ When I Think for Christmas is family friendly about Sara Ferguson reunites her ex-boyfriend named Josh Hartman when she returns to her hometown to her Mother named Anna Ferguson move. When Sara makes a surprising discovery, she & Josh forge a bold plan for upcoming Christmas concert that takes them back to their musical roots. Sara finds music sheets of When I Think of Christmas was written by Sara’s Dad named Shane Ferguson. Josh convinces Anna Ferguson to sing a Christmas song; When I Think of Christmas onstage. Anna & George and Sara & Josh get along ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ When I Think of Christmas is family friendly. Some great music and a couple of cameos, one of which is hilarious. ~Joyce in Carolina


Hallmark Movies & Mysteries:

πŸŽ„ Our Italian Christmas Memories If you can get past the sister being married to a woman your in for a very heart warming movie, with great acting, I was a little hesitant at first but the more I watched it was just such a heart felt story, one too many of us have had to deal with in our own families! I laughed, I cried, I will watch again -Susan Ann

πŸŽ„ Our Italian Christmas Memories turned off the movie. The cast and the movie was terrible. ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ Review: Long Lost Christmas - Family-friendly? Yes - Keeper? Borderline Yes - I like the storyline of this movie - a daughter trying to bring together her mother and the mother's long-lost brother to repair a broken relationship. And the story succeeds, due in large part to the wonderful acting of all the leads. There was also chemistry between Hayley and Jake - another case where you felt the actors enjoyed playing off each other. So why a borderline yes? Two reasons. First, it's another case of a person lying to others - and far too long - in order to achieve her goal. But what was upsetting to me was how, the day after she saves Gordon after he suffers a hear attack (and he call her his guardian angel) - she does a sudden, and very surprising and uncalled-for, about-face and just tears into him about his actions. Kind of hypocritical and, considering he just had a heart-attack, uncaring! Still, because of the positives I mentioned, it's a keeper for me...at least for awhile. ~Mark 25

πŸŽ„ Long Lost Christmas; This film was so heartfelt and beautiful. So nice to watch a movie with a positive message! It was family friendly and had wonderful strong characters and storyline! The connection between Jake and Halley was really special and I cried when the family found each other again. I also appreciated how understanding Jake was when he found out she wasn't there to rent a cabin. This was one of the best Christmas movies this year and is a winner to me. Taylor Cole never disappoints me! A good one to buy and add to our collections. Keep tissues nearby, this movie is one of those precious ones! The very best kind!⛄ God bless and Happy Thanksgiving! Can't believe it's almost here! ~Abigail

πŸŽ„ Long Lost Christmas is family friendly. It’s based on the book by Joan Kilby. It’s tearjerker at the end of the movie.This Christmas, interior designer Hayley Brandy plans to surprise her Mother named Patricia with the perfect holiday present: the extended family she knows her mom yearns for. Hayley herself thinks she & her Mom are fine alone, but she has recently discovered the existence of a lost relative, Patricia’s Brother named Gordon. Hayley hopes to find him & reunite the two siblings named Gordon & Patricia for Christmas. She travels to a town outside of Denver in Silver Valley, Colorado to chase a lead on a man named Gordon Renton, who owns a cabin construction company and who just might be her uncle. Hayley is delighted by the town, which is all decked out for Christmas. She’s equally charmed when she meets Gordon, his Daughter named Brianna & Jake the property manager. As Hayley tries to discover whether Gordon is actually her long lost Uncle, she beings to fall in love with the idea of extended family, the charm of the town & Jake. However, when she learns the circumstances surrounding the siblings’ separation, Hayley has second thoughts and decides to abandon her mission. Gordon, on the other hand, is happy to finally have a lead on finding Patricia – but will he be able to bring the family together in time for Christmas? Since Hayley finds her Mom’s memory box in storage shelves where she finds a picture of her Mom & long lost Uncle Gordon. Gordon, his Daughter; Brianna, & Business partner; Jake visit his long lost Sister; Patricia & Niece Hayley’s house. Gordon reunited his long lost Sister; Patricia - long time no see. Both Patricia & Gordon wrote each other Christmas Cards every years unsend & put in memory boxes & even see in persons. Gordon, Brianna, Jake, Hayley, & Patricia have Christmas Dinner at Patricia’s house. ~Anonymous


Lifetime:

πŸŽ„ Six Degrees of Santa is a very sweet movie! Highly recommend. -Maria

πŸŽ„ Christmas on Mistletoe Lake is family friendly and a good movie to watch. ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ Phew! My dvr is getting crowded!! But these two movies quickly got deleted so at least there's some space for two more this weekend! Christmas on Mistletoe Lake. I watched about 25% and just couldn't take anymore. It's probably an ok movie but it just wasn't thrilling me, so I quit to move on to better things. The part I saw was family friendly. ~Jane

πŸŽ„ The Dog Days of Christmas. Seriously? No. Just, no. I couldn't take more than 25% of this movie. It was just weird and silly. I felt everything was sub-par/low-budget -- the acting, the set, the directing, the script, the whole production was just a big "no" for me. The part I saw was family friendly. ~~Jane

πŸŽ„ Sweet Navidad. Family friendly. Cute movie. I thought it was going to be a bust for me because in the very beginning I felt like there was way too much exuberance and over-acting, almost like somebody had turned up the speed on everything. But then it all settled down and turned into a nice movie. I liked seeing the Puerto Rican traditions and foods. I liked the lead actor and actress and felt they played their opposite personality roles quite well. There were, of course, parts that were silly and unrealistic but, overall, it was a "sweet" movie. Good for a one-time watch. Maybe even a borderline keeper? ~~Jane

πŸŽ„ I started watching 'A Country Christmas Harmony' and when they brought the gay couple into the storyline (which in my opinion wasn't necessary) quickly started channel surfing for a better option. ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ A Country Christmas Harmony features prominent gay scenes throughout the movie. Lots of PDA, blowing kisses, and in person gay kissing. Not a lot of chemistry between the main actors and not great acting in general. Just overall a strange movie. ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ I just finished watching Santa Bootcamp and I am very happy to say that it was family friendly and rather delightful! There are very few Lifetime Christmas movies that I love but this is definitely one. I especially loved the sweet relationship between Rita Moreno's character and her husband. It just showed glimpses of it but for some reason it felt like there was a depth to it and I really enjoyed it. I cannot wait to watch it with my family! ~Sara S.

πŸŽ„ "Santa Bootcamp" -- family-friendly. It was nice for a one-time watch but didn't charm me enough to see again. ~Alicia

πŸŽ„ Santa Bootcamp. So, this one was a cute movie buried inside of a bizarre, ridiculous, over-the-top movie. It definitely was not a keeper for me, but if you can withstand the craziness and all the woowoo Santa magic, then this could be a fun movie to watch. The lead actress and actor were a cute match (he reminded me a bit of Kevin McGarry) and their romance was sweet. I thought Rita Moreno was horrible in the beginning but she mellowed out and ended up being a nice character (she’s amazing for 91 years old!). It was family friendly (I guess?), except for all the magic and woowoo fairy dust and Santa as a replacement for God and all the usual Hollywood confusion about the real meaning of Christmas. The first few minutes really rubbed me the wrong way and I almost deleted the movie; but because I was multitasking, I let it keep rolling. The movie gradually improved but it still had a very hefty dose of all the magic Santa stuff. The scene in the very beginning that bothered me was this: Rita Moreno’s character (Mrs. Claus in disguise as a sort of Christmas guru that trains seasonal workers) sits in the middle of her humongous, undecorated entry hallway. She sits in a sort of weird yoga/meditation pose and holds her fingers together and closes her eyes. By magic or some “force” we see – in fast forward motion all around her - all these elves/people dressed in green who magically decorate the whole house in a split second. She comes out of her “trance”, opens her eyes, and says “Let there be Christmas”. Then she, prayerfully, folds her hands and raises her eyes heavenward and mouths “Thank You”. Normally when people look heavenward and say Thank You, they are thanking God, but in this case, I presume she was thanking Santa or some other magical supernatural source. If Santa magic doesn’t bother you and your family, then this movie would probably be family friendly. ~~Jane


ION:

πŸŽ„ The Case of the Christmas Diamond is family friendly mystery movie. Blue collar, Andy is a little nervous but thrilled when she is invited to her rich friend's estate for Christmas, but when the family matriarch's multi-million-dollar gem suddenly goes missing she finds herself accused of the theft. With the help of a famous mystery writer, Andy must find the real culprit amid the litany of wealthy guests all of whom have their knives out for her. Blue-Collar Andy finds herself accused of theft when a multimillion-dollar gem suddenly goes missing from her rich friend’s estate. With the help of a famous mystery writer, Andy must find the real culprit amid the litany of wealthy guests ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ The Case of the Christmas Diamond is family friendly mystery movie about Blue collar Andy is a little nervous but thrilled when she is invited to her rich friend’s estate for Christmas. But when the family matriarch’s multi-million-dollar gem suddenly goes missing, she finds herself accused of the theft and at the center of the investigation led by Detective Billings. (Review may contain SPOILERS) With the help of a famous mystery writer, Andy must find the real culprit amid all the wealthy guests all of whom have it out for her. Blue-collar Andy finds herself accused of theft when a multimillion-dollar gem suddenly goes missing from her rich friend’s estate. With the help of a famous mystery writer named Jackie Evenson, Andy must find the real culprit amid the litany of wealthy guests. Jackie plays the role as Detective from Whodunnit Game hands 2 envelope on the pillow with cards: The Theft & The Prowler while Andy is sleeping & took a shower. Andy is being sidekick to Jackie. Andy can solve the case by using cards from Whodunnit Game. Detective Billings arrives in the afternoon at Kenilworth Estate with the guests & Andy plays the role as Deputy Detective. Jackie - The Detective Olivia - The Innocent Liam - The Gambler Harper - The Liar Margaret - The Lover Amelia - The Schemer Raphael - The Thief Lenora - The Opportunist Bridgette - The Harlot Gary - The Cheater The Prowler Gary runs toward the hall when the polices after him. Detective Billings & Polices handcuff Lenora & Gary. Andy knows Jackie sent her cards oh The Thief & The Prowler. Jackie wants to write mystery books with Andy. The Case of the Christmas Diamond by Jackie Evenson & Candace “Andy” Kayne. Andy drinks Kenilworth Spiced Ale with cinnamon stick. Liam hands Andy an album. Andy & Liam kids under the mistletoe ~Anonymous


UPtv:

πŸŽ„ Christmas in the Pines. Oh, I loved it!! This was hilarious and heartwarming. The type of feel-good Christmas movie that has everything you want. Love the family aspects as much as the romance. Unique storyline, which wasn't too believable at first (the whole real estate mishap) but still super fun to watch. Jillian Murray is charming and so likeable. Ariel and Mark were adorable together. Love the sweet chemistry. If I can be picky, Ariel's parents just seem a bit too young to me. But I love the dinner prayer where they mention the name of Jesus, FINALLY! I haven't seen many movies this year but this was the best one I've seen so far this year by far. ~CH Mom

πŸŽ„ The Picture of Christmas is a very charming, enjoyable and nice movie. The cast is great, especially a little girl, playing a daughter of the leading character. The movie is family-friendly. Oksanka

πŸŽ„ A picture of Christmas, is family friendly ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ The Picture of Christmas: Very nice movie! Plus the kid was really cute. ~Maria

πŸŽ„ The Christmas Retreat: Delightful movie! Definitely recommend. -Maria

πŸŽ„ There are 2 guys picking out a cake in a Christmas lucky charm, I didn’t think too much of it until it showed one guy put his arm around the other in the background. ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ I just finished watching Christmas Lucky Charm on UPtv and there was a short segment in the bakery where the young lady baker was discussing her wedding cakes with a male couple. I'm sure others may have reported this, but just wanted to let you know. Thanks for all you do. ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ Christmas Lucky Charm. Not family friendly. I was having a hard time really getting into this one and I thought it was just me and my usual issues with UPtv movies being less polished, as well as being more targeted to younger viewers. I figured others would probably like the movie and there were only a few mildly questionable issues (mention of unmarried characters living together and a neighboring shopkeeper who was into some woowoo mystical stuff). But then at about the 3/4 mark they went and had a scene with the lead actress in her bakery showing wedding cakes to two men with their arms around each other shopping for their wedding cake. Delete! I only wish I'd deleted in the beginning and not wasted my time with this one. ~~Jane

πŸŽ„ Also, in a little tiny house Christmas it sounded like her female friend referred to her ex as a female as well, unless I miss heard, it was just a brief comment. ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ The Holiday Swap Family friendly. It was cute, but I would have liked more from the main characters. I didn't feel too much chemistry between them. But I still enjoyed watching a new chic flick. I especially liked Henry, the older man who ran the general store. At first I was concerned Laura and Derek were living together, but then I found out they ran the lodge. Beware...Jake does say the Lord's name in vain though as he's opening her suitcase. ~Abigail


Want more Christmas movie reviews?

You’ll find these movie reviews and more in the 2022 Christmas Movie Review Page – *HERE*!

Have a Joyous Day! Net


πŸŽ„ BYUtv Christmas Programming - 2022! πŸŽ„ SEE HERE:


I was recently looking through BYUtv's schedule, and I noticed three Christmas movies that are new to TV. Sure the movies are also available via streaming, too, but I thought I would share their premiere dates on BYU, just in case you would prefer to watch there.

Also, if any of you are a fan of the Malory Towers TV series, as I am, they will also have a new one-hour Christmas special coming up this December!

Here are the details...



Thursday, December 1, 2022:


Christmas with Felicity 7pm/6c.

Storyline: After failing in business and in love, a downtrodden Felicity Olson moves back home with one goal: make enough money to reclaim her life in Chicago. But when a handsome, Christmas-loving dairy farmer inspires her to start a new baking business, their connection challenges Felicity to find the positive in life and rekindle her holiday spirit once again.

Available via: Pluto TV, Tubi, Amazon Prime Video - Click Here to Watch, and more...




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Friday, December 2, 2022


A Cape Cod Christmas 1pm/12c.

Storyline: Margot, a children's book author, travels to the family beach house on Cape Cod for one last Christmas with her siblings. With her parents gone, her siblings want to sell. Margot commissions her friend, a local artist, Christian, to paint a picture of the house as a keepsake. But soon, they hatch a plan to keep the house she loves.

Available via: Pluto TV, Tubi, Amazon Prime Video - Click Here to Watch, and more...




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Sunday, December 4, 2022


Malory Towers Christmas Special 7pm/1am – 1 HOUR

(Encores: Tuesday, December 13 at 7pm or 10pm)

Storyline: The Christmas special will feature the festive shenanigans of Darrell Rivers and pals and welcomes Great Granny Mary to Malory Towers, played by Valerie Lilley (Bloodlands, Marcella, Doctors, Casualty), along with Ron’s younger brother Fred Gilson (Charles Jackson), who is soon on hand to help the pupils with local pirate legends.

*Previous episodes can be streamed through BYUtv's web-site - here.




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Thursday, December 8, 2022


A Christmas Wish in Hudson – 10pm

Available via: Roku Channel

Storyline: A woman takes a shot at love after seeing a widowed firefighter and chef on a cooking show. With the help of his daughter, the two of them might find love this Christmas.



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All of the Christmas movies above say on BYU's website they previously aired on BYU on November 1st, but typically when a movie airs for the first time on BYU, the streaming source becomes available soon after, and all of these movies won't be available for streaming until they air on the dates I provided above. So, did they all air on November 1st? I'm not sure. Did any of you happen to catch any of these movies that day, or was this a misprint? Whatever the case, I hope you'll be able to watch on these premiere dates in December.

You'll also want to keep a look out for the beloved BYU Christmas movie classic, Christmas Jars. This movie encores Sunday, December 4th at 10pm/9c. and Monday, December 5th at 3am/2c. and 1pm/12c.

Now, I must also tell you there may be more to come on BYU. They have, in the past, updated their schedule last minute and added more movies near Christmas, so you may want to keep a close check if you are interested. And if you catch anything at all, please share with us.

Happy Christmas Movie Watching! Net


πŸŒŸπŸŽΈπŸŽ„ Where YOU Can See the NEW Christmas Movies from ImagiComm Entertainment and INSP Films... πŸŽ„πŸŽΈπŸŒŸ


Hello Everyone! Today I am sharing a reminder of where you can see the past and NEW Christmas movies from ImagiComm Entertainment and INSP Films!

Hope you will enjoy these wonderful movies throughout the Christmas season...


Blessings, Net


--------------------------------------------
*Please Note: I'm an affiliate with Amazon,
and I may earn from qualifying purchases when you click on my links.
Thank you for supporting It's a Wonderful Movie!
--------------------------------------------


Press Release:

Imagicomm Entertainment’s Christmas Films

‘Tis the season to take your mind off the day-to-day and indulge in feel-good Christmas movies.

(Click on the DVD covers below to order through Amazon)


Country Roads Christmas (Amazon, Fox Nation - Available 11/27/2022)
Starring Lanie McAuley and Bo Yokely
Country music executive, Skye Sanderson, hesitantly accepts a job from her handsome rival, Ryan Avery, to join him on her estranged father's concert tour. While on the road, the spirit of the season opens her heart to forgiveness and new love.



Christmas in Wolf Creek (Amazon, Fox Nation - Available 12/4/2022)
Starring Tim Rozon and Nola Martin
Sam Gavin has her hands full, between managing her animal refuge center and directing the town’s annual Christmas play. But when the reindeer and star of the show goes missing, Sam and her new boyfriend, Austin Spencer, must drop everything and set out to find him, to save Christmas for the entire town.



Christmas in Rockwell (Amazon, Fox Nation - Available 12/11/2022)
Starring Trish Stratus and Stephen Huszar
Ex-child actor, Alyssa Strader, returns to her hometown to hide from the press after a movie flop. But when she meets Jake Wellsey, a local cinema owner, will she be able to hide from the paparazzi, or will her new relationship make front-page news?



Christmas in the Wilds (Vudu, Amazon)
Starring Kaitlyn Leeb and Victor Zinck, Jr.
Separated by a blizzard, new couple Buck Johnson and Jessica Alaway take on the uncharted wilderness in hopes of reuniting for their first Christmas together. But as their adventure becomes a battle for survival, they realize how far they're willing to go for love.



Christmas in the Pines (Vudu, Amazon)
Starring Jillian Murray and Dean Geyer
Ariel Colt thought she bought the perfect cottage for Christmas, but, through a mix-up, two offers were accepted on the house. As she battles Mark Henderson, the other buyer, Ariel realizes she may not only have found the perfect house, but also the perfect love.



Christmas in the Rockies (FOX Nation, Vudu, FreeVee, Tubi, Amazon)
Starring Kimberly-Sue Murray and Stephen Huszar
After her father is hurt in a timber accident, Katie Jolly must enter a lumberjack competition to save her family's business. But when Harrison Brock, the paramedic who saved her dad's life, also joins the contest, a romance sparks just in time for Christmas.



Christmas on the Range (FOX Nation, Vudu, Amazon)
Starring Erin Cahill and Nicholas Gonzalez
Kendall Riley has just one holiday wish: to keep the family ranch solvent, even though a callous neighbor wants her land. When a stampede threatens to wipe out everything she’s worked for, her rival’s son, Clint McCree offers help… And maybe more. But can he be trusted?



Christmas on the Coast (FOX Nation, Vudu, Freevee, Tubi, Amazon)
Starring Julie Ann Emery and Burgess Jenkins
New York romance novelist Dru Cassadine is desperate after a string of flops. With her publisher about to drop her, she has just weeks to turn out a bestseller. To spark her creativity, Dru retreats to her coastal hometown for the holidays. When handsome local widower Brysen Flynn enters her life, raw fiction turns to real romance on the Southern shore… with an unexpected twist no one saw coming.



Christmas in the Smokies (FOX Nation, Vudu, Tubi, Amazon)
Starring Sarah Lancaster and Alan Powell
Clinging to the only life she’s ever known, Shelby Haygood finds herself on the verge of losing her family’s berry farm. When former love interest and musician Mason Wyatt returns to town, Shelby finds herself caught between his affections and her devotion to the family farm.



Happy Christmas movie watching!


Thursday, November 17, 2022

πŸŽ„ This Weekend ►► See New Christmas Movies + Josh Turner🎢 and Megan Alexander'sπŸŽƒ UPtv Holiday Specials! SEE HERE:



Here comes another weekend filled with many NEW Christmas movies! Hopefully, there will be some good ones in the mix; plus, I'm looking forward to seeing both UPtv holiday specials.

Joining Great American Family, Hallmark, Lifetime, and UPtv this weekend with new Christmas movies... are ION and the CW! See all the details below...



Thursday, November 17, 2022:




Storyline: Lovable pastry chef Carmen (Camila Banus) dreams of opening her own Puerto Rican-influenced bakery—like the one her family owned on the island. In the meantime, she showcases her treats at a local coffee shop. When hotel owner Victor Flores (David Fumero) discovers Carmen’s talents, he invites her to apply for a position as pastry chef for his hotel’s holiday gala. Knowing other applicants will have culinary-school backgrounds, as opposed to her homegrown skills, Carmen reluctantly applies. When she is accepted, she’s paired with chef Jax (Mark Hapka) to curate the perfect holiday menu. But the two do not mix well. Carmen is messy and cooks from the heart; Jax is a perfectionist fixated on technique. As they race against the clock to assemble their intricate holiday menu, sparks fly, and they realize they might have more to learn from one another than they initially thought.

Premieres Thursday, November 17, 2022
at 8pm/7c. on Lifetime


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Friday, November 18, 2022:




Details: Showcasing his unmistakable baritone voice, multiplatinum-selling recording artist and Grand Ole Opry member Josh Turner heralds in the holiday season with his unique interpretation of nostalgic classics and originals from his first-ever Christmas album, King Size Manger, plus an intimate sit-down interview hosted by Lorianne Crook and Charlie Chase.

Josh Turner: King Size Manger
Premieres Friday, November 18, 2022
at 7pm/6c. on UPtv
(encores at 2am/1c.)


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Friday, November 18, 2022:




Storyline: “Shelby is about to quit her job as a rocket engineer when her daughter becomes convinced that her Scrooge-like boss, Evan, is the Christmas Prince from a story Shelby invented years ago.”

Premieres Friday, November 18, 2022
at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel


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Saturday, November 19, 2022:




Storyline: When two strangers mistakenly pick up the wrong piece of luggage at the airport, each must use the intriguing contents within to track down the other's whereabouts in time for Christmas.

Premieres Saturday, November 19, 2022
at 7pm/6c. on UPtv


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Saturday, November 19, 2022:




Storyline: Natalie is the owner of a successful farm and home goods store that garners the attention of a major magazine. The magazine sends a reporter named Josh to profile Natalie’s company thinking it’s a family-run business. Little does he know that Natalie’s business is run by her with the help of longtime family friends. Knowing how much the article will help struggling farm, Natalie must convince Josh that her “family” and Christmas traditions are all real.

Premieres Saturday, November 19, 2022
at 8pm/7c. on Great American Family


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Saturday, November 19, 2022:




Storyline: “Three brothers get the surprise of their lives when they are forced to work together to care for a baby over the holidays. As they slowly get the hang of things, they find themselves on unexpected journeys of self-discovery and begin to rebuild their relationships as brothers, as well as the damaged romantic and professional relationships in their respective lives…all while rediscovering their love of Christmas.”

Premieres Saturday, November 19, 2022
at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel


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Saturday, November 19, 2022:




Storyline: “Hayley is an interior designer who plans to surprise her recently widowed mother, Patricia, with the perfect holiday present: the extended family she knows her mom yearns for.”

Premieres Saturday, November 19, 2022
at 10pm/9c. on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries


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Saturday, November 19, 2022:




Storyline: When event planner Emily Strauss (Emily Kinney, The Walking Dead) is hired by mall magnate Ed Mancini (Patrick Cassidy, Castle) to stage the ultimate Christmas Gala for his most important investors, Emily finds herself being sent to bootcamp – Santa Bootcamp – to find the perfect Santa and the inspiration she will need to make the evening a success. While there, Emily meets Belle (Rita Moreno, West Side Story), the bootcamp’s drill sergeant with a heart of gold, who helps Emily rediscover the magic of Christmas and find romance along the way. Additional stars include Tony® award winner Marissa Jaret Winokur, Justin Gaston, John Schuck, and deaf actors Deanne Bray and Zyra Singleton.

Premieres Saturday, November 19, 2022
at 8pm/7c. on Lifetime


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Sunday, November 20, 2022:




Storyline: Every boyfriend Jessica has had found the love of his life right after he dated her. Just as Jessica leans into her unlucky love life and swears off dating for the Christmas season, a handsome gallery owner moves in across the street.

Premieres Sunday, November 20, 2022
at 7pm/6c. on UPtv


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Sunday, November 20, 2022:




Details: Hosted and Executive Produced by Inside Edition’s national correspondent and best-selling Author Megan Alexander, each episode takes viewers to a different small town around the country. Through food, drink, music, entertainment, and faith, we will highlight local businesses and towns that are making the holiday season special in their own unique way. This episode features all things fall – apples, hay, changing leaves, and pumpkins at Burt’s Pumpkin Farm in Elijay, Ga.

Premieres Sunday, November 20, 2022
at 9pm/8c. on UPtv


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Sunday, November 20, 2022:




Storyline: "Blue collar Andy (Daly) is a little nervous but thrilled when she is invited to her rich friend's estate for Christmas, but when the family matriarch's multi-million-dollar gem suddenly goes missing, she finds herself accused of the theft and at the center of Detective Billings' (Baldwin) investigation. With the help of a famous mystery writer, Andy must find the real culprit amid the litany of wealthy guests, all of whom have their knives out for her."

Premieres Sunday, November 20, 2022
at 8pm/7c. on ION


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Sunday, November 20, 2022:




Storyline: Kyla is a skilled genealogy researcher who’s made a thriving business of putting together family trees. When she comes across new information regarding her mother’s mysterious extended family, Kyla and her sister travel to the charming town of Conifer, hoping to piece together their ancestry. The search leads Kyla to a generations-old Christmas tree farm, its stubborn, handsome owner – and potentially, love.

Premieres Sunday, November 20, 2022
at 8pm/7c. on Great American Family


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Sunday, November 20, 2022:




Storyline: “Sara Thompson returns to her hometown to help her mother move and is surprised to find her ex-boyfriend Josh Hartman is back home. The two had once planned a life in music together but Sara left to study law. The former flames slowly reconnect and try to heal wounds, both old and new. When Sara makes a surprising discovery, she and Josh forge a bold plan for the upcoming Christmas concert that will lead them all back to their musical roots and make this a holiday to remember.”

Premieres Sunday, November 20, 2022
at 8pm/7c. on the Hallmark Channel



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Sunday, November 20, 2022:


Storyline: As the Walton family prepares for Thanksgiving and the annual Harvest Festival Fair, a young boy arrives to dramatically change their lives in ways they could have never imagined.

Premieres Sunday, November 20, 2022
at 8pm/7c. on the CW


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Sunday, November 20, 2022:




Storyline: Riley Burdett (Jamie Perez) is the artistic director of the Onota Theatre in Western Massachusetts. When Regina, the Scrooge-like owner of the theatre, breaks the news that she’s preparing to sell the property before the holiday performance, Riley must call upon the ghosts of Regina’s past, present, and future to change her mind. Meanwhile, a big TV star, Sam Palmer (Thomas McDonnell), has moved to the area to escape the craziness of Hollywood. Riley casts him as Bob Cratchit in A Christmas Carol and his star power, his cleverness, and his budding love for Riley helps her save the theatre…and steal her heart during this very special Christmastime.

Premieres Sunday, November 20, 2022
at 8pm/7c. on Lifetime


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You may have noticed, I did not mention the movie A Country Christmas Harmony above. This is because I have been informed by Maria and Karen (see in Movie Review post) that this movie will include a same-sex couple. I wanted to be certain you all were aware of this information.

I hope you do enjoy whatever movie or movies you choose to watch this weekend. I'm hoping to watch much of Great American Family and UPtv, but I have a lot of Thanksgiving prepping to do, so we'll see.

Safe travels to those of you who might be traveling this weekend or upcoming week to be with family for Thanksgiving. It's so nice to think of family and friends gathering once again.

I would love to know which Christmas movies appeal to you this weekend. Please be sure to share in the comment section below...

If you'd like to check out the 2022 Christmas Movie Reviews shared by It's a Wonderful Movie family members and myself, please visit *here*.

To see more Christmas movies coming up, be sure to visit the Christmas Movie Schedule.

Disclaimer: Please know when I share a movie, this is NOT an endorsement of any of the actors involved, personally or professionally, with their other TV/film projects.

Please note: I haven't pre-screened the new Christmas movies airing this weekend. If you'd like to post a review on whether a film is family-friendly, please share in comments. Thank you so much to everyone who participates in this.

Happy Thanksgiving & Merry Christmas!!!

Joyous Blessings to You All, Net






SHINING HIS LIGHT:

With the busyness of Thanksgiving coming up and the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season ahead, I thought I would share scriptures today on finding our peace in Jesus...

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, 
since as members of one body you were called to peace. 
And be thankful."
~Colossians 3:15

"Surely God is my salvation; 
I will trust and not be afraid. 
The LORD, the LORD Himself, is my strength and my defense; 
He has become my salvation."
~Isaiah 12:2

"The LORD gives strength to His people; 
the LORD blesses His people with peace."
~Psalms 29:11


Tuesday, November 15, 2022

πŸŽ„The latest Christmas Movie Reviews 2022... SEE HERE:



Thank you to everyone who recently sent in reviews for the latest NEW Christmas movie premieres!

By the way, please know your review can be of any new movie this year. I realize we can’t see all of the movies in one weekend, so if you have some thoughts on one of the new movies from a previous weekend (or longer), please feel free to share that, as well.

I have two requests…

1.) When you write your review, please share the movie title at the beginning of your comment. It makes it so much easier than trying to figure out which movie you are referring to.

2.) If you want credit for your review, please leave your name/nickname/initials, etc. If you don’t leave any sort of name, I will simply use Anonymous.

Most of you already do both of these things, and I truly appreciate you doing so.



Enjoy the latest Movie Reviews here:

 

πŸŽ„ Review: A Royal Christmas on Ice - Family-friendly? Yes - Keeper? No - I think after having so many "royal" Christmas movies lately, it is going to take a really special one for me to recommend it. And this isn't it. The main problem I had is the lead actress - maybe the script called for it, but she seemed so gloomy throughout the movie, especially at the beginning. Whenever she smiled - which was rarely - it seemed forced. (She's not even smiling in the poster.) And maybe that's why there didn't seem to be any chemistry between the leads. For me, not a fun movie at all! ~Mark 25


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πŸŽ„ Loved A Merry Christmas Wish! Loved Jill Wagner and Cameron Mathison together! Another movie with a fantastic message and so many Christmas carols as background music. I also loved the actress who played the sister. She added a nice element to the story. - Jennifer R

πŸŽ„ Watched A Merry Christmas Wish last night and was not disappointed. Loved the music for starters and acting was up to par as usual. Scenery was so much better than other movies so far. Only complaint was that it was very predictable. Storyline follows many that I have seen before. Would definitely be a keeper. ~JoCo

πŸŽ„ A Merry Christmas Wish – I enjoyed this movie so much I didn’t want it to end. Jill Wagner and Cameron Mathison are absolutely fantastic together. I only wish we could’ve seen more fun moments of Janie (Jill Wagner) and Dylan (Cameron Mathison) on the farm together. It was obvious that Jill and her character, Janie, were at home there. This movie is completely family-friendly and ideal for all ages. I also loved seeing the little girl, who was adorable, by the way, from When Hope Calls. This is one of those sweet, lighthearted movies I already know I’m going to enjoy watching over and over again! ~Net

πŸŽ„ A Merry Christmas Wish is family friendly about an NYC Advertising Executive returns to her hometown to her family farm but instead reconnects her childhood friend named Dylan & gets involved with organizing the yearly Woodland Falls Winter Wonderland, which takes place on the property. Dylan is staying at guest house next to Randall’s farmhouse. They manage to save farmhouse whose runs by Dylan. Dylan has a Sister named Nicole, their Mom named Esther, & Niece named Gracie. It tells the story of Janie. She returns to her hometown of Woodland Falls when her great-uncle passes away. He surprises Janie with a special gift: the family homestead, her childhood home. ~Anonymous


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πŸŽ„ Love at the Christmas Contest – This family-friendly movie was sweet and simple, fairly straight-forward. It was fun to see the different styles of Christmas trees designed for the contest, but none of them were truly spectacular, in my opinion. I didn’t feel a spark between the leads, so this movie was not a keeper for me, but it’s still a pleasant end-of-the-day watch. Children may even like it, too, since there is a young girl included throughout the story. ~Net


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πŸŽ„ Christmas Sweethearts is family friendly about when a woman named Ashley returns home to find her ex boyfriend named Grant is in relationship with Bella, she enlists her best friend named Liam to act as her fake boyfriend. Grant & Bella and Ashley & Liam get along at the lodge ~Anonymous


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πŸŽ„ Noel Next Door Firstly, I'm not sure I have a problem with a few of the issues other commenters have mentioned. The drug store meetcute with Noel holding a Tampon box was a bit too cringey, but that was it. It is family friendly, in my opinion. Other than that, I think that the chemistry is spot on. Noel's character might be a bit too flirty for my taste, but she is alright I guess. Couple things I'm not a fan of: - I'm not sure I liked it that Henry lied, but I guess that's very normal for kids his age. - Jeremy quickly opened a bottle of alcohol after the date was canceled But I do love these couple of things: - Henry apologizing to Jeremy and their whole conversation at his door - I adore all the classical music - Love that the main characters are not perfect. ~CH Mom


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πŸŽ„ "In Merry Measure" was such a good and heartwarming movie. I liked the idea of high school choir and all the preparations for the competition. Music was just great in this movie, all these Christmas songs. All the cast was so good. I liked the leading actors Brendan Penny and Patti Murin. By the way I didn't watch any movies with Patti Murin and was very impressed by her acting. She is so bright. All in all it was a really good movie and most importantly it was family-friendly. ~Oksanka



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πŸŽ„ The Royal Nanny is very interesting, and best of all, clean! Pretty good considering this is the 1st new Countdown to Christmas movie I've actually seen this year. -Maria

πŸŽ„ The Royal Nanny was family friendly, very cute, and a fun change from the usual Hallmark Christmas movie. I'm surprised it wasn't on Movies & Mysteries because it had a fun Aurora Teagarden vibe to it with the mystery of who was targeting the royal family. ~melnewlife

πŸŽ„ Review: The Royal Nanny - Family-friendly? Yes - Keeper - Undecided - Well, I give Hallmark points for originality on this one - a combination of a Christmas movie, a spy thriller, and a mystery! It made for a interesting storyline, and I admit I didn't know how this one was going to end. I thought the lead actress did a wonderful job in her role, and the supporting cast was enjoyable as well. Good for a one-time view, although I'm not sure it's a keeper for me - the romance is almost secondary to the spy plot, and that's not exactly what I'm looking for in a Hallmark Christmas movie! ~Mark 25

πŸŽ„ The Royal Nanny is family friendly about MI5 agent Claire Champion is working undercover nanny & she must resist the charms of Prince Collin while keeping the royal family: Princess Rose & Elle, and Prince Robert safe during Christmastime. Princess Rose’s Husband is a King. Prince Colin is a Prince of Pranks. Claire is trading with a guy & including Ms. Lansbury with an umbrella πŸŒ‚. ~Anonymous

πŸŽ„ A Royal Nanny is family friendly about Once Claire gets her unusual assignment in The Royal Nanny, she goes to work inside Kensington Palace. She gets a crash course in nannying from Ms. Lansbury who has spent the past three decades training the caretakers for the royal family. (REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS) Unfortunately, Clarie’s royal charges prove to be quite a handful. Both Princess Elle & Prince Robert are eager to send the new nanny packing. Claire relies on a combination of her spy skills and nanny training to get the kids in line and make the lives of everyone in the royal household better. At the same time, a spark grows between Claire & Prince Colin is the younger Brother of Princess Rose is the Mother of Claire’s charges & the heir to the throne. However, things get complicated when MI5 wrongly suspects a member of the royal family of plotting against the throne? Claire puts her career, as well as her life, on the line to protect both the royal family and the man she is falling in love with. ~Anonymous


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πŸŽ„ Love, Lights, Christmas - I went into this movie with some trepidation, but it turns out I really enjoyed it. It reminded me a little bit of A Christmas Movie Christmas, which also had a character playing a stuck-up actor. (In fact, I found it amusing that in both movies the stuck-up actor talks to a character named "Evie"!) I thought the chemistry here was right on, and the two leads looked like they were having a lot of fun. It had some humorous moments, which is always a plus for me. And what do you make of Kimberly's wink to the audience at the end of the movie? For me, I think she was just saying, "Well, what did you expect for an ending?" (Like I said, humorous.) This one's a keeper for me! ~Mark 25


πŸŽ„ LIGHT, CAMERA, CHRISTMAS Family friendly as far as i know. This movie was quite hilarious. I love Kimberly Sustad and how she is always so good in making her character appear so relatable. Brad Baxter's character was pretty hard to like in the beginning and I couldn't really picture them as a couple when he was being such a goofball. He did get a bit more vulnerable towards the middle of the movie although I'm still unsure I like how John Brotherton portrayed this character. The chemistry was alright, I personally felt more of a friend vibe. ~CH Mom


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πŸŽ„ Christmas at Golden Dragon is family friendly about Growing up, Romy & Rick spent the holidays working at their parents’ popular Chinese restaurant, the Golden Dragon. When Romy’s boyfriend named Blake invites her to spend the holidays with his family in Vermont, she is thrilled that her parents let her off the hook, so she can finally experience a “real Christmas.” Her Brother named Rick currently works for the restaurant fulltime while he figures out his future, but secretly harbors a passion for cooking. When Rick & Romy’s parents named Jim & Sue Chen & Vincent Cheng announce they will be closing the Golden Dragon for good just before the holidays, the siblings must each figure out what that means for their futures. Also impacted by the news are the landmark restaurant’s loyal patrons and staff: workaholic executive Veronica who longs to be a Mother; recent widow Jane who is planning her first Christmas without her husband; Nate is a single father trying to do the best by his Daughters named Jesse & Vivi during the holidays; and helpful delivery driver named Miguel who is hoping to secure a college scholarship. As each of them face the closure of the Golden Dragon, they discover what Christmas & family truly means to each of them. Romy & her Brother Rick gather some family friends to cook at Restaurant for Christmas & how they manage to pull it out for their parents to save Chinese restaurant. Rick asks Sadie to go prom with him at Golden Dragon Restaurant. Nate & Veronica’s Daughters named Jessa & Vivi make Christmas Muddy Buddies in the kitchen with their Dad named Nate. When Romy & Rick’s parents surprise them with news that they’ll be closing their decades-old Chinese Restaurant, the siblings soon find themselves reevaluating their futures? ~Anonymous


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πŸŽ„ "Our Italian Christmas Memories" -- One of Beau Bridges granddaughters is in a lesbian relationship with a baby on the way. ~Alicia


πŸŽ„ I was very disappointed that Our Italian Christmas Memories was not family friendly. The sister has a wife. πŸ˜” ~Anonymous


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πŸŽ„ A Maple Valley Christmas is mostly family friendly ie there are no same sex relationships or people living together outside of marriage. However, I thought that divorce was treated a little too lightly. Erica said she didn't blame her dad for leaving because farm life isn't for everyone. As if a father leaving doesn't have a massive effect on children! Her own divorce was mentioned casually too. Maybe it's just me, but I feel like Hallmark has tried to portray divorce too flippantly lately while they used to at least show it as a devastating, painful tragedy. ~melnewlife


πŸŽ„ MAPLE VALLEY CHRISTMAS Family friendly, with the exception of how the divorce topic was handled, probably part of Hallmark's agenda of normalizing those. The plot is just completely overdone, but I think it is still worth watching with all the family conflicts. Andrew Walker is charming as always. Didn't have a good first impression with Erica's character, but she kinda grew on me as the movie progressed. I can totally relate to her type A personality. Aaron's relationship with his Dad was just heartbreaking and painful to watch. The odd prayer/saying grace in the end. Really, Hallmark? You can't even call it "saying grace", or let them say "Amen". Overall, I enjoyed it, but it wasn't a keeper for me. ~CH Mom


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πŸŽ„ The Christmas Retreat is family friendly about Workaholic Kim finally reaches her breaking point when her boyfriend named Stephen turns around & breaks up with her instead of proposing, so Kim’s Mom named Mary takes her away to a Christmas Retreat to reconnect with the spirit of the holiday. Little do they know – the owner named Rae Reynolds of the retreat has enlisted the help of her newly unemployed Brother named Mark, who seems to share a lot of Kim’s tendencies. But will they be able to see past the similarities neither one wants to admit to, and let the magic of the season connect them with something they couldn’t have planned for? ~Anonymous


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πŸŽ„ A Tiny Home Christmas is quite charming. -Maria


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πŸŽ„ "Reindeer Games Homecoming" -- not family-friendly. Within 10 minutes, there's a stereotypically gay coworker talking about his "husband." ~Alicia

πŸŽ„ Reindeer Games Homecoming is really funny, heartwarming, and is a good one to watch if you're looking for something to laugh at! Plus, there was a small scene from 'Twinkle all the Way' included at one point on a TV. There is of course 1 big downside (that I kind of suspected from seeing 1 of the trailers): Gay best friend who is also very dramatic. I still enjoyed this one neverthless, and I got through it all instead of turning it off early on because this looked so good from the trailers. -Maria


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Want more Christmas movie reviews?

You’ll find these movie reviews and more in the 2022 Christmas Movie Review Page – *HERE*!

On a personal note… we received snow on Saturday! It was sooo beautiful coming down; it really put me in the Christmas spirit. It melted on Sunday, but we are receiving more accumulation this week. By the way, Abigail recently commented that she received snow at her home, as well! Did any of you see, or are you expecting a snowfall, too? Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!

I’m so thankful you stopped by *It's a Wonderful Movie* today!

Have a Joyous Day! Net