dorothyexeter Reviews

Everything Went Down (2013)

Weighted Mean of the the 25 Reviewers who rated, is not 7.2! It is 6.1!!!!!

[3/10 · 5 September 2022]

This film just appeared on Prime Video for me to watch.

With such a high IMDB rating I decided to check it out.

Very low budget film. Could hardly hear the lyrics of her (acted by Kate Tucker) songs.

I would not rate her singing as very high at all.

This appears to be a promo only for her music.

Both actors (Kate Tucker and Noah Drew) have not done many films. This is not surprising after what I saw.

I am only the second reviewer who wrote a review for this film that was a 2013 film, and it is 2022!

The weighted mean of the 25 reviewers who rated only, is 6.1.

So where did the 7.2 rating come from??????

IMDB is better at calculating the ratings. What is occurring here with this?

Romance in Style (2022 TV Movie)

Great Story Depicting the Required Slow Change Occurring in the Fashion Industry and More

[9/10 · 14 August 2022]

Unlike the one poor review that has been written thus far, I give high praises to this film. Here is a beautiful story of how the fashion world should be ... and is slowly becoming. As we all know, these major changes do not occur overnight.

This is a great reflection of those who are instrumental in making these changes evolve in reality.

Yes, there is a romantic relationship evolving with Ella and Derek It is great that it is not the over the top style that too many Hallmarks are!

It is more realistic with how quality relationships evolve.

... A small take on the Cinderella story ... her name is Ella after all! :)

Jaicy (Ella) played this role very well ... Confident, but not over confident ... after all she is standing up to the prejudices that exist in the fashion industry. What does one expect? Size 16 is not that much bigger than 14!

And I can vouch that the sizes in numbers appear to have come down to be smaller than they were years ago! So, 16 is most likely the 14 of years ago! Great to see skill admired and rewarded.

Great to see a sound character at the helm of this fashion company, Benjamin (Derek) to assist with these changes. A comment was made by a reviewer of her dislike of Ben in the Virgin River series. In that series he was becoming a good person as he learned from his mistakes. He plays the role in this film very well and believable! Here he is a good person from the start.

Hurray to such a relationship starting, with both of them spearheading the progressive and quality future changes in the fashion industry! Perhaps a sequel? This warrants one much better than some others that Hallmark has done ... and ensure the quality remains the same in the sequel!

Enjoy everyone!

Sister Swap: A Hometown Holiday (2021 TV Movie)

Yes to Kimberly Williams-Paisley and No to Ashley Williams

[3/10 · 4 July 2022]

Three stars to Kimberly Williams-Paisley.

No star for Ashley Williams.

I am not a fan of Ashley Williams. Too fake, in particular her fake smile.

She appears full of herself. Why, is a mystery to me.

Kimberly acts more authentically and believable.

I don't understand why Hallmark made this in two parts. It looks like Ashley pushed for it. Why is she so well regarded, when her acting is not great, etc? Or, are there other reasons why she has this say?

I hope that Hallmark gets the message from many reviewers, that the likes of Danica McKeller, Candace Cameron Bure, and Ashley Williams, who are way over casted, are not desirable to watch.

While I am at it: Among the undesirables: Brooke D'Orsay, Alicia Witt, Amy Acker, Rachel Boston, Cindy Busby, and of course Lori Loughlin,

The better regular actresses are: Nikki Deloach, Bethany Joy Lenz, Alison Sweeney, Jill Wagner, Brittany Bristow, Jessy Schram, Brooke Burns, and Kimberley Sustad.

More black actresses should be given leads with good plots, as well.

The plots are weak for most of the movies Hallmark has attempted with lead black actresses. They need a good plot, just as the other actresses do. The ones I have seen who do a great job and should be given more lead roles with good plots are: Holly Robinson Peete, Tamara Mowry-Housley, and Rukiya Bernard,

There are many new actresses who are great as well ... much better than the undesirables I list here.

I hope other reviewers add their opinions on this topic, so hopefully Hallmark gets the message to create better memorable feel good movies with great plots and great actresses and actors.

Just One Kiss (2022 TV Movie)

Great Hallmark quasi-Musical

[10/10 · 3 April 2022]

I loved this film. This is the first 10 rating from me!

It did not follow the typical plots of too many Hallmark romances. All the characters and music contributed to the overall story.

Great to see such quality coming forth with Hallmark films.

I hope that this continues.

I had not heard of Santino Fontana before. With research I see that he has performed on broadway with Laura Osnes, who has appeared on other Hallmark films.

Perhaps we will see them together in a Hallmark? ... or with his wife? Who also has a beautiful voice.

What a beautiful voice. Great for the Sinatra songs.

Krysta Rodriguez has an all right voice herself.

Santino and Laura Osnes or his wife would be great in the Sound of Music, as well as Grease, as has been noted by others.

I do recommend this film. I am sure that most will love it just as much.

Enjoy!

I Still Believe (2020)

Powerful Faith From This Young Couple - Beautiful People and Beautiful Song!

[8/10 · 11 March 2022]

I never heard of Jeremy Camp before watching this film.

I watched the film out of curiosity, realizing this was a Christian based faith film, after checking some of the reviews here on IMDB. Melissa and Jeremy Camp did not live their faith as many evangelists do. So, I found this film, their faith, and their love more realistic and beautiful, and definitely watchable!

This film illustrates a very strong love between two young very spiritual Christians, who put their faith in God first. There are many great lines made in this film that we all can identify with.

It is a beautiful story and the filming of this beautiful story was just as beautifully done. The acting by all characters was high quality acting, and the songs are spectacular. "I Still Believe" is truly an amazing song. It is inspiring for all of us.

Watching this film and hearing this song inspired me to check out Jeremy Camp on youtube. I listened to more of his music and watched a few interviews. Jeremy and his now wife Adrienne (who you get introduced to in this film) truly are inspirational to both Christians and non Christians, just as Melissa Camp was. It is wonderful to see the memories of a loved one who has passed on, cherished by their family, and by the new spouse.

I know that my faith is not as strong as theirs. I consider myself spiritual and believe in God, and hope that there truly is a God, and after we pass we will experience God's heaven, goodness, and knowing more than we do now about all the wonders of our world. We tend to think of this more when we experience a close loved one passing on. I no longer associate myself with the religion of my family, since I do not agree with the institutions that surround the Christians faiths. There has been too many evil doings by these institutions in the history of our world ... and why is one religion better than another? As far as I see, each religion has their faults, as long as the religion does not encourage any killing of people. So, considering myself to be a spiritual Christian is good enough.

This film did not emphasize any religion, which was great. It centred on the love and faith of this young couple, during their journey from when they met, their marriage, and the challenges they endured shortly after. Jeremy Camp has a wonderful voice and the words of his songs are meaningful and beautiful. "I Still Believe" is his best, IMHO.

I recommend this film for everyone ... Christian or not.

Welcome to Mama's (2022 TV Movie)

Great Storyline - Great Potential For A Great Film - But Did Not Meet

[6/10 · 27 February 2022]

I really enjoyed the story line. This film truly had great potential!

But, I felt that Melanie Scrofano (Amy) held back the quality of this film.

It had great potential, but she did not appear to be "into" this film, which is too bad, since it had potential to get a 9 rating from me. Her acting did not appear to be genuine. She seemed to simply make statements. Her body language including facial expressions did not match her statements.

The transitioning back and forth from the origins of Mama's to now, could have been done so that it was easier to follow ... perhaps not as many transitions with longer sessions so that the original mama and papa could be clearly seen and understood. Eg: When did papa disappear? What happened to him? When did Amy leave Mama's? Etc.

Unlike what some reviewers had stated about Daniel di Tomasso (Frank Rossi), I felt that he played his part well. More details about the transition and blending of both he and Melanie (Amy) should have been included to better display how they bettered the new Mama's and how their romantic relationship grew.

Don't Forget I Love You (2021 TV Movie)

Good Story with Good Acting

[7/10 · 23 January 2022]

Unlike the one reviewer who has posted so far, I like this film.

I find that so many reviewers criticize since they are expecting the same "chemistry" between the romantic couple, yet complain that the story is a "rehash" or "the same old", etc.

How contradictory and hypocritical!

Chemistry is not the same for everyone.

Everyone is unique, thankfully!

The eyes and other aspects of body language shows "true love".

Not the "fake love" that so many acting romantic couples show in films, that too many reviewers appear to like. Same old there ....

It is refreshing to see stories that are not too fake, and depict characters who act more realistic ... as realistic as possible ... they are actors and actresses after all.

I like the message that is left by the mom, who was not there in real life when the lead actress turns 30. The little humour between the two leads who possess many different characteristics is sincere warm and caring, which all sincere relationships should possess.

There are many great lines in the film that more people should watch and live by.

Enjoy the film!

Love at Sunset Terrace (2020 TV Movie)

Beautiful Story With Realistic Characters and Acting

[8/10 · 23 January 2022]

I disagree with some of the reviewers here who criticized Ellen Woglom more severely than she deserves. The very thin actresses look unhealthy. So, it is great to see healthy actresses, such as Ellen, in these better romantic films.

She could have worn more flattering pants through the film, if one is looking at what the actors/actresses wear. Male actors get away with non-flattering clothes. Double standards here, right?

Not everyone is focused on wearing designer clothes all the time.

I enjoy Carlo Marks. His acting is never overdone, and he appears to be great with children. The romantic films I have seen him in, include children.

Ellen also did not over-act as in too many of the romance films where the actresses have way too many fake smiles and acting, etc. Ellen appears more down to earth, relaxed, and comfortable. As Carlo was.

The story, taking place in a modest B&B, rather than a high end resort, is a welcome change as well.

Enjoy this feel good, romantic film, with a great story!

For Love & Honor (2016 TV Movie)

Beautiful Feel Good Film - More of these films should be viewed by all!

[8/10 · 12 January 2022]

I am surprised at the low ratings for this film.

I watched this film a few years ago. I enjoyed it just as much this second time.

There are many strong statements made throughout the film that most people should read, listen to, and live by.

There is more than just a romance story here, which makes this film worth watching.

I can't believe all the black films around in an already easily viewed dismal world we live in.

We all need these uplifting light hearted positive films to inspire and help us to rise up above the too many black destructive self centred people in our world.

More of these films should be made and viewed. I worry about the fascination by too many people with the black dismal films that seem to dominate the entertainment industry these days.

The only reason I do not rate this as a 10, is that there are definite aspects of the film that are not realistic ... which occurs in most films, btw.

I highly recommend that this film is viewed and more reviews added on IMDB, to reflect more of our population.

I hope that more of our population start to view matters in a more positive manner, and that they contribute to assisting others more than simply concentrating on themselves.

Enjoy!

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year (2008 TV Movie)

This Is Still My Favourite Christmas Film!

[10/10 · 3 January 2022]

This film has it all ... great actors ... humour ... romance ... cute light hearted story ...family!

Love the red christmas light bulb!

Henry Winkler does it again!

Warren, Brooke, and Connor just as great!

Most of you will enjoy this one!

I'll Be Home for Christmas (2016 TV Movie)

Love Overcomes All

[8/10 · 31 December 2021]

Contrary to many of the negative reviews of this film, my view is that this film is one of the better Hallmark films.

If more Hallmarks had such diversity, then perhaps there would be more of the regular population who would view them, not just the "sappy typical" females (and some males) that many view as the "chick flick" type!

The roles played may be of the same "title" as others, but the characters were more unique than the typical characters in too many Hallmark films. It is great to see diversity in the characters of the higher quality Hallmarks.

I highly recommend this film.

It illustrates humour, caring, and love with a little different plot and a pleasure to watch as the characters blend with each other to enhance each other's characters. We continue to learn from each other, right?

Enjoy!

A Storybook Christmas (2019 TV Movie)

One of the Better Hallmark Romances

[8/10 · 31 December 2021]

I thoroughly enjoyed this film. It is one of the better Hallmark films.

It had a more unique plot with great lead and other characters.

It is getting tiresome to see the same plots on so many of the Hallmarks.

Some reviewers seem to be so critical of some actors. These reviewers appear to want all their characters to be the same. I view those characters to be fake.

People are unique. So, it is refreshing to see unique characters.

I enjoy the diversity in characters, so I felt the characters in this film were great.

A Christmas Together with You (2021 TV Movie)

Another Great Romance - Without All The Typical Hallmark plots

[8/10 · 18 December 2021]

I enjoyed this film, as I enjoy all the romances that don't follow the typical Hallmark plots, and have some originality and creativity unique to the story line, along with good actors, of course.

The story line is sweet, uplifting, and original.

I recommend this movie as a welcome addition to the greater Hallmark Christmas films.

Enjoy!

Five More Minutes (2021 TV Movie)

Standing Ovation for Nikki, David, Alexander, and Scotty.

[10/10 · 5 December 2021]

A highly recommended film, not just at Christmas.

Thank you Scotty, for a beautiful song that we can all relate to, that is for sure.

Great to see that Scotty assisted with the writing of this film.

This was an introduction to this song for me. Now it is on my playlist.

Nikki and David come through, as they do, most of the time - both are among the best Hallmark actors.

I was guessing at the identity of Alexander through the film ... excellently played.

Much realism in this film regarding people, emotions, and life experiences, with the touch of angels!

Some reviewers have pointed out the flaws with some of the realities of the military, the town, etc. What about the fact that snow in most Hallmarks doesn't look like snow? :) Hallmark can certainly improve on these "set" creations, that is for sure.

Similar, in some respects, to the other good military/angel related film: Angels and Ornaments. I loved the song from that film as well. It is also on my playlist. This film is slightly better with all the other characters in this film and the story itself.

Impressions left after watching: Appreciate what you have, do not take anything for granted, assist others who are not as fortunate, appreciate the family and friends around you, show your love, do not keep love hidden, take risks for love ... then you will minimize your regrets ... and accept grief and loss just a little bit better. Loss is never easy.

Crashing Through the Snow (2021 TV Movie)

Warren Christie - Great as Usual, Amy Acker - Terrible as Usual

[6/10 · 1 December 2021]

I agree with at least one other reviewer here.

Amy Acker has such an artificial exaggerated smile.

I hope that Hallmark gets the message that these contrived smiles just don't depict a pleasurable realistic look! ... and spoil the desire to watch such films.

There are other recent actresses that exhibit such obnoxious SMILEs.

This is a reason that I don't watch the films with Amy in them, nor the other films with actresses with such artificial smiles.

However, Warren Christie is a very amicable character to watch.

He is such, as usual, in this film.

This is the only reason I gave this a rating of 6. Without him the rating would be substandard and below 5.

The 27-Hour Day (2021 TV Movie)

Great Leads - As Usual - for Autumn and Andrew

[8/10 · 8 August 2021]

The plot is similar to many Hallmark films, but with a few fresh aspects and messages, with two of the best leads that Hallmark has. This makes it worth watching.

It does an excellent job showing how our reliance on technology for efficient work and play can lead to a robotic way of living, and how a balance between work commitment is required with personal emotional commitments. The importance of always caring for our loved ones and new people we meet is demonstrated beautifully with the likeable supporting cast in this film. The piglet was a cute complement!

Certainly a feel good movie, with the relationship between Autumn and Andrew developing without too much of the unrealistic gush that too many of the lower rated Hallmarks have. Some good witty banter, which is what I enjoy in these films. There was no initial meeting of the love interests in a harsh circumstance which too many of Hallmarks feel is necessary, when it is not. How many real romances start that way, anyway?

The relationship developed with both assisting each other with their view of their life journey to that point ... not by forcing any changes ... but by suggesting a few different ways to reflect and view things ... which, of course, they grow to accept in their future life path. This clearly is important in any true romantic relationship, so is demonstrated very well.

Love Takes Flight (2019 TV Movie)

One Of My Favourites - Great Realistic Film With Some Depth

[9/10 · 12 May 2021]

This certainly is one of my favourite feel good, heart warming films.

With all the black themed films and strife in our world, more of these types of films are necessary.

It is refreshing to see different scenarios and plot in this film with much more depth, than so many of the typical Hallmark films with the same plots and scenarios. Here, there is quality performances by all the actors and actresses.

Contrary to some of the reviews for this film, I feel that the two lead characters were solid, realistic, and heartwarming. What is chemistry? Is it supposed to be seen with sparks flying? I try not to slot people in pigeon holes, where they then become no more than robotic characters. Each person is an individual. This is what helps to make life exciting. After all, there are multitudes of people in this world. Thus, I love and appreciate that these two leads do not fall into any "typical Hallmark" character slot. Each of us shows love in different ways. I feel that the characters of both Lizzie (Nikki Deloach) and Charley (Jeff Hephner) were drawn to each other, which developed into a cherished love. Both appreciated the quality, strength, courage, and caring in each other, even though these characteristics were not overdone with more words than were necessary. Expression, action, and understanding was enough. Often, less is more, as was demonstrated here. Similar occurs with the relationship between Walter and Quinn, and the developing relationship between Walter and Charley.

So many true life aspects were covered. A confident veteran pilot (Charley) with a slight hero complex who becomes the EMS pilot who demonstrates his bravery and commitment. A dedicated single mom (Lizzie), who gives up part of her career for her daughter (Quinn) with a chronic illness that was not overemphasized. A grieving husband (Walter) from the loss of his wife, along with the grieving son (Charley) from the loss of his mother. The birth of a child by Lizzie's sister. All these characters intertwined through the evolution of their relationships with each other. All with real life imperfections that include problems and miscommunications, that get sorted out with a happy ending, as love, growth, and understanding overcomes all.

Of course, it would be wonderful if all issues ended this way in real life. :)

Sweet Autumn (2020 TV Movie)

Nikki and Andrew - some of my favourite Hallmark actors

[7/10 · 17 March 2021]

OK. I decided to start to add my reviews. I enjoy some of the Hallmark movies since they are feel good movies to contrast with the ever increasing dismal dark movies on the movie scene. We need more positive depictions of humanity, family, friends, and romance, which is Hallmark's aim. Too many of the Hallmark movies are not well done, and I don't bother with them. This is one that is worth watching. I hope that Hallmark takes note of these reviews and continue to improve their movie lines with more varied themes and romantic scenarios. I like both Nikki and Andrew and this movie was great with these two leads. Yes, some of it was the basic Hallmark plot, with some good different twists to make it interesting enough to watch, as well as good supporting actors. Hallmarks should pay more attention to the makeup of the actors ... too much of the fake tan look here! Make them look more natural! The autumn scenery was beautiful, especially the scenes out in real nature. The theme of the movie and Aunt Bee's match making, after her passing, highlighted valuable ethics that our world needs more of. More people would benefit from these ethical messages if they watched these movies.