parksidedrive Reviews

Five More Minutes: Moments Like These (2022 TV Movie)

Five More Minutes to Wonderful

[9/10 · 19 December 2022]

A beautiful movie taking place during Christmas. Ashley Williams stars as Kaitlyn Morrison, a widow with a 10 year old son named Adam. She and her son return home during the holidays. I will not interject any story line to spoil your watching pleasure. I will say that Ms. Williams delivers her best performance to date. She is not doing her usual over the top sugar high performance. Depth and layers are in her presentation. Lucas Bryant never delivers a bad acting performance and possibly makes hers better. You see two mature adults work through the challenges toward a meaningful relationship. All the supporting cast understands the tone and direction of the movie.

Kevin Fair, who directed many of the Signed, Sealed & Delivered movies has skillfully guided the movie in the right direction. Don't miss this movie. I enjoy most Hallmark movie, but this one surprised me. It is a must see.

My Grown-Up Christmas List (2022 TV Movie)

So-So Hallmark Movie

[6/10 · 10 July 2022]

First, I love Hallmark Christmas movies. This attempt was a miss. Story is a little far-fetched but acceptable because it's Hallmark.

What does stand out as a glaring mistake: The long hair for the military is way off. The low, low cleavage of the wedding dress was a "what was I thinking" dress faux pas.

Movie had some laughs for all the wrong reasons.

Better luck next time, Hallmark.

If I Only Had Christmas (2020 TV Movie)

Christmas on the Road to Oz

[10/10 · 30 November 2020]

A story based on the Wizard of Oz with characters taking on the "fears" of those famous figures from the much loved book and movie.

The message of helping those in need, especially in education, is a necessary goal during the holidays and 365 days a year.

It was an enjoyable movie with a message of giving even if we have to conquer our fears to make it happen.

Time for You to Come Home for Christmas (2019 TV Movie)

Christmas Journey to Joy

[10/10 · 24 December 2019]

Hallmark delivers the best movie of the season. Alison Sweeney (Katherine) and Lucas Bryant (Jack) are superb in their roles. The movie is about the loss of a special love and finding a conclusion to a time of pain. Each character finds resolution and growth. Love is the answer.

A stand out cast, terrific story, with great directing & music. Just the best from Hallmark.

"Save a dance for me scene" tells it all.

Happy Holidays, Everyone! Enjoy

Christmas on My Mind (2019 TV Movie)

Unique Christmas Story

[8/10 · 23 December 2019]

A fall on ice with Santa coming to the rescue of Lucy,(played by Ashley Greene) starts our story. A bump on the head and Lucy has amnesia. However, she does go straight to her ex-boyfriend Zac, played by Andrew Walker. He delivers on a character protecting a broken heart yet still out to get his girl.

The story has its ebb and flow without giving away the reason for the break up. This gives the story a plus to pull off the conclusion with a Hallmark happy Christmas ending.

Very enjoyable holiday movie.

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas (2019 TV Movie)

Christmas with a Heart

[8/10 · 23 December 2019]

Hallmark sends a message of Peace in this movie feature. It could not have been accomplished without it staring Eric Mabius. Mabius bring strength and goodness to his Hallmark roles.

The story hints upon division and competition. It is very apropos for today. I shall leave it at that. Hallmark handles the theme without preaching and the actors deliver the message of community and caring.

The only reason for the minis 2 stars was the odd "threesome friends" and divorce friend handing off his ex to his friend. Too creepy and not needed in story. A concerned brother or friend would have worked.

The movie is a keeper to be watched again to remember- PEACE ON EARTH! Thanks, Hallmark for an enjoyable Holiday Movie Season.

Christmas in Montana (2019 TV Movie)

So-So Movie

[6/10 · 16 December 2019]

The movie lacked any depth and the acting was flat. Where was the story? I fell asleep and watch the movie again in order to write a review. I am sorry the second viewing was very uninspiring.

Kellie Martin should have a better script and cast.

Disappointing.

Holiday Date (2019 TV Movie)

Holidays are Fun to Celebrate

[8/10 · 16 December 2019]

Hallmark scores high with Holiday Date. The entire cast makes the movie a joy to watch. Lots of fun, laughter and a greater understanding that the season has lots to celebrate.

Make sure you put this movie on your to watch list. Leaves you smiling.

A Christmas Love Story (2019 TV Movie)

The Gift of Love

[10/10 · 8 December 2019]

Hallmark Hall of Fame presents a remarkable Christmas movie that will be enjoyed for years to come. The outstanding singing talents of Kristin Chenoweth and newcomer Kevin Quinn is a special Hallmark card in movie form. Scott Wolf adds delightful acting to an important role in the story. It is a lovely story with drama to tug at your heartstrings and just enough fun to keep you smiling. Kudos to a great cast.

The music is glorious with superb direction by Eric Close (who also stars) to make it the perfect Christmas experience. Don't miss watching this one.

Hallmark, Thank you for a special treat this holiday season.

Christmas Town (2019 TV Movie)

A Beautiful Christmas Gift from the Heart

[10/10 · 3 December 2019]

Candace Cameron Bure gave her best performance in this movie. She was a convincing character looking for more in life. Her life's challenges brought her to the perfect place with a special job to do to achieve a fulfilling life. The romantic lead of Tim Rozon was the exact balance to Bure's character. He was a striking, levelheaded man not the usual Hallmark hunks that are acting voids. Rozon's strong character and solid performance along with a caring Bure, makes you cheer for their characters Travis and Lauren to get it right. Dylan, Jesse Filkow, was the best young actor's performance this season. He was gutsy yet a kind and caring youth. The rest of the cast were superb.The setting of the town would make a Hallmark card proud. A terrific story presented in an even tone and does not over do it- A fine production. I will watch this movie again and it is now a Christmas favorite for years to come. A true Hallmark quality movie. Thank you.

Picture a Perfect Christmas (2019 TV Movie)

We Need a Little Christmas

[8/10 · 3 December 2019]

And right this very moment we have "A Picture Perfect Christmas " to enjoy. Nothing over done in the acting department- just a solid feel good holiday movie. Enjoy!

Write Before Christmas (2019 TV Movie)

Send a card today

[7/10 · 3 December 2019]

A positive story about sharing and concern for folks. We need a little more of that today. Enjoy a nice, feel good movie.

Christmas in Rome (2019 TV Movie)

Buon Natalie

[9/10 · 3 December 2019]

The backdrop of Rome was wonderful. The sights and sounds of Italy at Christmas time was beautiful. Angela and Oliver are a lovely couple that have an "Italian Cupid" to make things right. I was impressed by Angela's strength of character and ready to make her way in the world.

Sam Page's and Lacey Chabert's acting was above average which made the movie so enjoyable. Very merry Christmas movie. Enjoy.

The Christmas Club (2019 TV Movie)

You are Delightful

[8/10 · 30 November 2019]

What a wonderful Christmas movie. Elizabeth Mitchell and Cameron Mathieson are a lovely couple not quite ready for the special romance they have discovered. Coincidence and fate are the themes of the story. A beautiful ballet teacher (Mitchell) and investment broker (Mathieson) find love while not looking for it.

The story could have been over done or blasé. The leads bring the most to their characters and you are involved in their story. And they get a little help along the way from a most unusual person.

It is an sweet romance story taking place during the holidays. Enjoy.

Christmas at the Plaza (2019 TV Movie)

Something Always Happens at the Plaza

[7/10 · 30 November 2019]

Welcome to the world of the Plaza. It provides the fascinating setting for any story. As so many people come and go so do the stories of their lives. We get a glimpse of the Christmas story of Nick and Jessica. Jessica is a historian hired by the Plaza. Jessica's assignment of creating the Plaza's Christmas display featuring past tree toppers brings the past and present together to for a lovely Christmas movie. It is not complex, just enjoyable. Nick also has a part in the presentation. So they are thrown together indirectly on the project.

Bruce Davison brings a positive dimension to the story. Julia Duffy can deliver a comic moment like no other with a look or a pause. It was wonderful to see them in the movie.

Check into the Plaza for awhile and enjoy a nice Hallmark Christmas movie.

Our Christmas Love Song (2019 TV Movie)

Love the Music

[6/10 · 26 November 2019]

Outstanding music and a terrific cast. The banter between Witt & Hines was exactly like a couple with a long standing relationship would talk. They were fun to watch

The music rates a big 10. The secondary cast rates a 10 as a very talented group. The story rates a 10. It was a balance of fun and life's challenges.

My take away stars are due to Alicia Witt's presentation. She is a very accomplished actress, you enjoy watching most of her movies. However, the question must be raised about casting a 44 year old to act like a 24 year old. The story explains an older person, the dialogue doesn't deliver it.

I am very hesitant to say-Ms. Witt takes off 10 pounds, but it doesn't translate to taking away 10 years. Her wardrobe showed a draping neck and didn't define the character she was portraying with her clothing. The hair was lackluster. Hallmark help your cast.

Hallmark should embrace this talented actor with stories that have depth for a woman of her range.

Disappointed in Hallmark not the movie.

Christmas at Graceland: Home for the Holidays (2019 TV Movie)

Coal in Your Stocking

[3/10 · 26 November 2019]

Nothing to recommend the movie. No connection between lead actors. Story was odd. I felt sorry for the kids. Santa may want to have a long talk with Dad about positive parenting. It was not entertaining to watch children be disregarded.

Cherished Memories: A Gift to Remember 2 (2019 TV Movie)

Do You Remember Part 1?

[6/10 · 25 November 2019]

With so many wonderful Hallmark Christmas movies why did Hallmark chose this one to make into a two parter? Possible Hallmark Movie to make into a Part 2: A Christmas to Remember - there was more story to tell about Jennifer and her new family. A Crown for Christmas-how did Allie adjust or change the crown once she married? And who can not forget Christmas Under Wraps. It begged for more story to see if Lauren made the "discovery" of the real Garland, Alaska. Ho-Ho-Ho.

Yet this okay holiday feature makes it so memorable for another dose of mediocre? Hallmark, please rethink this one.

My so-so reaction lands squarely on Ali Liebert. She delivers lines as if she is being courteous to someone taking a coffee order. She never connects with any of the cast. Scenes without her are heartwarming and real. Peter Porte is very convincing as a guy that real cares. All my stars go to the secondary cast for making the best effort - except the gingerbread house collapsed.

Liebert is a lovely lady just not a leading lady.

Hallmark served up a turkey (and not in a good way) with this one.

Holiday Hearts (2019 TV Movie)

Open Your Heart to Christmas

[9/10 · 24 November 2019]

Peyton Canaday (Ashley Williams) is an accountant who wants to demonstrate her extended talents as an event planner at her parents inn. Enter Dr. Ben Tyler (Paul Campbell) a beau from her past. A child by the name of Lily indirectly helps them find out what is really important during the holidays and the other 364 days of the year.

Williams lights up the screen and Campbell is just as infectious to watch. They make this holiday movie a good one to watch.

Bring out the hot cocoa and cookies this one will leave you with a smile and wishing everyone a Merry Christmas.

A Godwink Christmas: Meant for Love (2019 TV Movie)

Coincidences from Heaven

[10/10 · 21 November 2019]

An outstanding movie where the entire cast makes it a holiday favorite. The leads were believable and connected. Kathie Lee delivered a convincingly good performance as a mom trying very hard to help her family- sometimes in a funny way and sometimes in the best way. Levins is an actor you look forward to seeing on Hallmark features- A multidimensional actor.

The story comes from real events, presented in an excellent production.

All and all one of the best Hallmark Christmas movies of the season you will want to see for years to come. Don't miss this one.

Nostalgic Christmas (2019 TV Movie)

You better not pout

[3/10 · 21 November 2019]

Female lead whined throughout the movie. It was a real turn off. Actor was 40 and sounded 4. Real disappointment since I like Hallmark Christmas movies.

The Mistletoe Secret (2019 TV Movie)

Mistletoe Mishap

[5/10 · 17 November 2019]

Pickler can carry a tune just not a movie. Hallmark and its viewers would be better served if they get talented actors (and they have many) and play Pickler's music in the background. Sorry to say- Her obvious inability to act just blew a wonderful Christmas movie.

Christmas Under the Stars (2019 TV Movie)

A Glass of Eggnog Half Full

[7/10 · 17 November 2019]

The movie and its premise was enjoyable. Autumn Reeser never fails to deliver a good performance. Metcalfe just can not keep up with Reeser and Peters investment into their roles. They make the movie memorable and give layers to story. This story has drama. Metcalfe just can not deliver that message.

A Christmas Movie Christmas (2019 TV Movie)

Welcome to a weird Christmas movie

[9/10 · 11 November 2019]

It is so wacky, the movie is actually great. Hats off to the actors and the superb writing. If it was a little more campy it would be a sci-fi film. -Invasion of the Body Snatchers meets Sweet Christmas Movie. How did you do it!

I will be watching it again. Outstanding!

Picture a Perfect Christmas (2019 TV Movie)

Perfect Christmas Movie

[8/10 · 11 November 2019]

All the ingredients for a perfect Christmas movie come together with this Hallmark offering. Chemistry between leads Cor and Patterson is very believable and makes for a lovely movie. A cute kid being a kid and not a whining adult moves the story in the right direction. And an adorable dog is always a plus.

Yes, Hallmark got it right this time. Santa will not forget you.