cwg2005a Reviews

Christmas on the Farm (2021 TV Movie)

Very funny

[8/10 · 25 March 2024]

Although I am mindful that the Australians do not like that the movie was not 100% accurate with Aussie references or jokes, that's like lawyers complaining that "Law & Order" courtroom scenes are not accurate.

In other words: So What? The movie is well-paced, well-written, and well-executed. The actors all put in top efforts; in fact, I do not think there was a weak link in the case.

The camera movements did not intrude or impede, the lighting was moderate, the script drew each character in its own shades.

I have seen over 30 christmas films this season, and this is among the handful of the best.

Secretly Santa (2021 TV Movie)

The worst this season

[3/10 · 1 March 2024]

This title seems a bit harsh, but is actually an accurate reflection of what I saw. I watch Christmas movies all year long, so have seen many, many of them, and this one was really a sad addition to the genre.

The two leads had no chemistry; in fact, they seemed to be bored with the entire enterprise. The editing had to string it out to the standard 90 minutes, and this left a plodding, slow narrative.

Actually, the best part of the film was the generic "best friend," played by Getenesh Berhe, whom I would like to see as a lead. Ms. Berhe was interesting in every scene in which she appeared.

Overall, if you have a choice of films, skip this one. It ain't worth the 90 minutes, folks.

Star Trek: A Private Little War (1968) Season 2, Episode 19

This drivel belongs in Season 3

[3/10 · 17 July 2023]

It is hard to overstate how awful all the separate ingredients are here: There are 2 tribes (Villagers and Hill People), distinguished mostly by the fact one wears godawful blond wigs and other godawful black wigs.

The acting is, even in light of ST:TOS, simply laughable. It is so bad, and so over-the-top, that there is not a single believable moment in this episode.

The theme and story idea is not deplorable; the execution (the script) is really bad. For example, there is a fight toward the end involving a woman being attacked; she has a strong weapon, but doesn't use it. Instead, she allows the assault. Why? Who knows. Who cares.

My advice: of course you have to watch it once to see all the ST verse, but don't bother a second viewing!

The Longshots (2008)

Thoroughly Entertaining

[8/10 · 6 May 2023]

Note the title to my review is not "Excellent," because the direction is a bit slow, holding too long on some scenes, and stilted in parts, but the film is definitely a good, satisfying "feel good" movie about a lonely girl, shunned in school, who becomes one of the best -- and the only girl -- quarterback to power her team to the Pop Warner "Super Bowl." The acting is excellent on the parts of the female actors, but the male actors leave something to be desired (mainly intensity and variety; they are all a bit "one-note" in their characters).

Overall, Very enjoyable; I am glad I happened to see this scrolling through ROKU.

The Queen's Gambit (2020)

Amazingly Wonderful

[10/10 · 10 March 2023]

"Queen's Gambit" has now been seen by ... well, by probably everyone who has wanted to see it. For those few "hold-outs," I can only tell you -- absolutely promise you -- that you are missing one of the most jaw-dropping excellent productions of all time.

From the acting, to the costumes, to the cinemaphotography (made to look as if it were filmed many years ago), the directing (the pacing and arrangements of each scene) ... it is all beyond top-notch. If you like great character personalizations and portrayals, terrific direction, enveloping story-telling, and emotional crests, you will be enraptured by "Queen'a Gambit." (and no, you needn't know how to play chess).

Friends: The One with the Engagement Picture (2000) Season 7, Episode 5

Very Unpleasant Episode

[3/10 · 19 December 2022]

In this episode, Rachel tries to manipulate her assistant into not dating, Phoebe tries to manipulate Ross into not dating a specific woman, Ross insults his girlfriend's ex, Monica pushes Chandler into doing something he clearly has not desire to do, and, overall, it just was not fun or pleasant to watch. Whoever wrote it decided to show the mean-spiritedness and smallness of each character.

I would avoid this one, actually; in addition to what I just said, it also does not move the marriage narrative in any meaningful direction, does not engage any new relationships for the other singles, and just sort of lays there, formless.

A New York Christmas Wedding (2020 TV Movie)

Strange, Original, Emotional

[9/10 · 15 December 2022]

Whatever you think about when you hear "Christmas Romance," forget it! This very VERY moving story revolves around two women who loved each other, but did not confess it or live it, and thereafter split apart for 20 years until an angel (with a GREAT backstory) visits and offers choices.

I loved the film BUT ... there is one glaring and very odd error: Father Kelly, beginning his Christmas sermon, states "from the Old Testament, First Corinithians .... " and of course anyone with a modicum of knowledge knows Paul's letters to the Corinthians is in the NEW Testament. No pastor / father would make such a glaring mistake.

That aside, this film is HIGHLY recommended!

Perry Mason: The Case of the Lethal Lesson (1989 TV Movie)

Good story, a little slow

[8/10 · 15 August 2022]

If you like Perry Mason stories (and I once owned 86 PM books), you will be happy to see these resurrection stories. They do have one missing element: the tag at the end, when all the characters discuss the mystery and how it was solved.

One thing I do not like AT ALL in these new stories: Ken Malansky is the most incompetent, stupid, bumbling, and ridiculous investigator imaginable. In every show he goes into dark interiors alone, in every show he gets beat up at least once, in every show he gets information and then decides to NOT call police or share with anyone, but just go off half-cocked on some chase.

Feel the Beat (2020)

More Emotional Pay-offs than expected

[8/10 · 9 April 2022]

First, the obvious: Spending an hour and a half watching Sofia Carson is a treat! Second: the movie is another "misfits compete against the richer, more experienced bigger groups" story. What pulls this one up to a higher rank is the integrated story of "girl who left town to make it on Broadway returns", which is handled very well, with interesting townies incorporated therein. The "old boyfriend" is a relic of a story, not very interesting, but the other relationships work well.

Faith, Hope & Love (2019)

Not your typical "dance" film

[9/10 · 10 January 2022]

This film had me at the opening credits, shown over dancing shots. If you are expecting "Strictly Ballroom" you are in the wrong place, but this does have the tropes of "He doesn't know how to dance, learns to love it and practices like crazy and falls in love." The film not quite successfully tries to do too much: a love story, a Christian evangelical bent, an "us against the world" competition, a "fish out of water" story ... what saves it, I think, is Petra's lead; she is perfectly cast: beautiful, intelligent, likeable, and has an actual dance background.

I liked this film quite a bit, and would recommend it but not un qualified. The religious line is not too intrusive, but it is important to the couple's relationship.

Good Sam (I) (2019)

It's okay for when you are bored or tired

[5/10 · 7 January 2022]

This film is a blip on the rom-com screen, but does have a HUGE redeeming factor: Tiya Sircar, whom I would watch doing anything. She brings a (funny, actually) intensity to tracking down the "Good Samaritan" of the title.

There is an unforeseeable twist toward the end after she thinks she has the whole story, but even that is "ehh, okay" kind of shruggable.

Squared Love (2021)

Fun, well-done romance hurt by dubbing

[7/10 · 7 January 2022]

First thing: I believe absolutely that dubbing has to stop in foreign films. Actors spend a lot of time perfecting their line delivery, and then we see a film like this and get some voice actor on a day-rate. I remember in Germany seeing a John Wayne film, dubbed into mediocre - acted German. Awful.

Anyway, the film is really enjoyable, with a lead meant to look like Julia Roberts in "Pretty Woman." She looks REALLY good! The lead male also looks like his role: a print model with shallow values.

Everything was done to a bit higher level than the typical rom-com, and the film is worth viewing.

I am really grateful that foreign films are so readily available!

Let It Snow (2019)

Terrific variation on Christmas films

[9/10 · 7 January 2022]

This is one of the highest ratings I've given to a winter film; it is so far away from the typical "Christmas romance," the everybody involved gets a high-five here.

The story is too convoluted to dip into, but there are NO "typical" stereotypical roles: the leading girl doesn't get sent to a small town for a job detail, there is no slightly overweight sidekick, not even an obvious love interest.

What there is: well-drawn characters, interesting interactions, serious situations, great music and acting. The lead (Isabela Merced [her youtube videos are under "Isabela Moner") is likeable and believable; the second female lead (Odeya Rush) is worth watching just for her beautiful eyes, but actually her acting is attention-getting as well. In fact, there is no one in this film that does not do a terrific job.

It is filmed calmly, despite the upheavals in the well-drawn story, and edited to a really comfortable pace.

You will like this movie, no matter your age. Don't be put off thinking it's only for Gen-Z or some other small demographic.

Resort to Love (2021)

How much do you value predictability?

[4/10 · 7 January 2022]

I agree with most reviewers of this film: it follows the Christmas Romance formula in plot, and the only variation is that the lead is a singer who had been "dumped" by her fiancee (do I need to tell you that she becomes a resort entertainer and her "ex" books the location for his wedding? No? You guessed that already?).

Anyway, it's okay, but they went to a beautiful location and wasted it: very few long shots of the exterior.

BTW, you will recognize the lead; she was also in "Falling in Love" and deserves a better film at some point.

Rip Tide (2017)

Very funny in spots

[8/10 · 7 January 2022]

First, to get to the best part first: Naomi Sequeira is really cute and fun as the "sidekick," as all Christmas romance films need. I wish her role were a bit larger.

I see come criticism of Cora, but actually, I thought that given the role of a spoiled me-centric model, she carried it pretty well. The nicest part of this is not the plot ("fish out of water" typical plot) but the story.

The story takes place "down under" and the Cora's character arc is slowly but effectively shown, from center of attention to the master designer in the background. There is a nicely-written secondary story of her mother and aunt's estrangement , which is of course tied up as you would expect.

I laughed out loud at place in this. The writing, direction and editing (pacing) were all above-average, and I recommend this film.

Operation Christmas Drop (2020)

Less than middle-of-the-road Christmas "romance"

[4/10 · 18 December 2021]

I love Christmas movies, in all their cheesiness and predictabillity (yes, even "Christmas Kiss"). But this bland attempt left me almost totally unmoved.

The story is: a congressional aide is sent to Guam to get facts justifying closing a US military base. A handsome captain is assigned to liaison the pretty aide.

Do sparks fly? The script says yes; the actors project No. And this is the first problem: there is ZERO "chemistry" between these two. The interaction between the two just ... sort of ... lies there doing nothing.

Second problem: there is no build-up to the character arc or transformation. The two main turnarounds (one is at the near end) are so instantaneous as to be laughable.

But there is a redeeming element (well, it doesn't really "redeem" the film, but makes it not totally awful) is the information about the work our military does in improving the lives of thousands of those living on the southeast islands. That was something I was unaware of, and was impressed that this effort has been ongoing since 1952.

So, worth watching? Maybe if you have a couple hours you do not value at all.

Love Hard (2021)

How does dishonesty in relationships reveal our insecurities?

[11 December 2021]

"Love Hard" is Netflix's best entry to the Christmas "rom-com" market this year. The story is almost irrelevant (no, it's not a "prince meets small-business owner" or "boss send cute girl to tiny town" or even "busy A-type personality loses everything and has to discover his real worth during Christma." ) Instead, it is a story revealing and discussing honesty in relationships -- particularly on-line; first the pics, then the flirting, then discussions, then finally meeting. But in this film, the relationship dishonesty is spread to family, employment, close friends ... pretty much everywhere to everyone. And how we come to grips with the truth and the ultimate value of honesty is the theme of this story. The love relationships are just an ark carrying the discussion.

It's a very-well scripted and acted love story that is directed with patience and care, which I appreciated (most Christmas stories are uninteresting in the look and pacing), and which will keep your eyes happy. The two leads are likeable and actually project as a good couple.

One caveat: the side-relationship (the really cute guy who does not share interests) is sort of awkwardly dealt with, and the ultimate discussion between the two could have been written differently. In fact, this relationship maybe was totally unnecessary, but I did see why it was there.

Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008)

Upon what do we build our deceptions of love and happiness?

[10/10 · 18 May 2021]

Okay, let's agree: there's a lot of baggage the comes with watching Woody Allen films.

That out of the way, this jewel of a movie continues Allen's "postcards" movies (Manhattan, To Rome with Love, Midnight in Paris, etc) that use the settings as an additional character, and as with the others, he makes them appear to be the sort of place we would like to visit.

Beyond that, I love "Vicky Cristina Barcelona;" the characters are drawn intimately and played to perfection by the actors. The plot is almost irrelevant, but the story blooming from the plot is beautifully-paced and edited. There is no one here unlikeable, of course (this is consistent with Allen's filmic style), but three marriages which have an inborn itch (and only in one marriage do both parties realize the emotional devastation they are visiting on each other).

Vicky is marrying into boredom, a fate which frightens Cristina; Judy is stuck in a vision of her life dissipating unhappily into the mist.

Final note: does anyone ever have financial difficulties in any Woody Allen Film? Everyone just seems to go to artist parties and other countries.

Watch the film and ask yourself: upon what do we build our deceptions of love and happiness?

Happiest Season (2020)

Acting, dialogue both top-notch

[8/10 · 2 January 2021]

I agree with some of the reviews that some of the plotlines needed to go in different directions; however, I also found this to be overall a really good film about fear of family, deception of friends in the face of (not as bad as we think) disapproval, and hidden love. The technical aspects -- the shots, the lighting, the blocking -- was all much better than most "holiday" romances we see. The acting, especially by K-Stew and Aubrey, was really good; they took their characters seriously and became two likeable characters whom we would have liked to delved into deeper. And this is my main complaint: the characters were devices to advance the story; the story was not there to reveal character. Especially these two (mentioned), I would have liked to have seen them "fleshed-out" much more. Overall, I really liked this film -- even cried at points. Highly recommended!

A Cinderella Christmas (2016 TV Movie)

Enjoyable Christmas Film

[8/10 · 31 December 2020]

This is one more of the "Christmas romance" genre films (I read there were 74 new ones made in 2020; they are cheap to make and very popular). There is no deviation from the formula: cute girl (make that EXTREMELY cute girl) wanders into a new relationship with a Handsome (rich) man who is looking for love, and there are obstacles, but ... guess how it ends? (I am not holding my breath). Despite a snarky comment by another reviewer about Emma Rigby's lips being bought, she has always looked this way and yes, many men do like full lips. Not sure why, I guess it's biological. Anyway, Emma is a really likeable actress in a likeable film. Don't stress out over the plot ... it's a pleasant way to spend a couple hours.

A Prince for Christmas (2015 TV Movie)

One of my ION season favs

[31 December 2020]

"A Prince for Christmas" is one you will be able to watch twice each season. The actors are likeable (a MUST for these sorta - cheesy template Christmas romances), the writing is a level above the usual, and the characters are nice people you don't mind spending a couple hours with. It was shot in USA and in England (and a long - shot set piece in easter Europe), and unlike many of the seasonal films, it does not look cheaply made (which is not to say it looks like a multi-million dollar tent event, but it looks like the producers cared). This is a successful entry into the genre, and one which you should take the time to watch -- twice if you've the time.

Prescription: Murder (1968 TV Movie)

Cheesy, over-acted farce

[5/10 · 13 July 2020]

I watch Columbo every time I can find one on, and they mostly follow the pattern we all know and love. This was apparently the very first introduction of the LA sleuth, and a cheesy introduction it is, with bad dialogue and terrible acting (by actors who had not much to work with) ! Of course, one must make allowances for the time period in which it was created, but there were terrific "who-dun-its" like Perry Mason which managed to eschew the "77 Sunset Strip" jazzy music and odd close-ups, but this director shoved every 60s cliche he could find, and unfortunately the cheesy, awful writing (both story and dialogue) lent itself to this mess. As a piece of nostalgic trivia, it is worth seeing - once. But do not expect to see the subdued, in-control, manipulative Columbo of later years.

L'enfer (2005)

Kieslowski's visual ideas realized, but characterizations lagging.

[8/10 · 5 April 2020]

By cwgraul Apr 05, 2020 Kieslowski's visual ideas realized, but characterizations lagging. "HELL" is one of a trilogy left behind by the Polish director Kieslowski; "Heaven" was made by the German director Tom Tykwer in 2002 (starring Kate Blanchett) and was a better film. I liked "Hell," and recognize the director tried to create the careful pacing that Kieslowski himself displayed in his films. However, the characters do not sparkle, or invite empathy. Unfortunately, often deliberate pacing is at the cost of immediacy. However, this was never the case when Kieslowski directed his own films (see "Blue" for an example), and was not the case with Tykwer's brilliant "Heaven." I am still awaiting someone to make the definitive third part of the trilogy: "Purgatory." My understanding is the script was completed also.

Stargirl (2020)

Very much liked this film of hope

[8/10 · 15 March 2020]

Disclaimer: I had never heard of the book, so I am reviewing only what is on the screen, in relationship to itself, not some 20-year old book.

Of course, many would say the "magic" scenes, and the magical quality of Stargirl's persona, are undrealistic, but this would miss the point of the story: SHE is intended to be a magical presence intruding and elevating the lives of others. So her magic is within the "willing suspension of disbelief" we are expected to bring the viewing.

That being said, yes, there were tropes that we've all seen before (the quirky "outsider" girl, the nerdish or shy boy who connects with the girl, etc. "Because of Winn Dixie" touched the same "new girl who sees the delight in life" shading.

However, I really liked this film. The actors understated their performances and the director held the tone down to allow the story to develop. I did think some of the supporting characters could have been more fully drawn, so they were more than backup singers, but the movie could not go on forever.

The camera was unobtrusive, with lighting and movement intended to be little-noticed in the background. The only really awkward part of the film are the scenes in which there is a single woman singing (in a low voice) on a football field, without a mic, and is somehow heard by every person the stands. That was awfully unnerving it was so unrealistic.

Overall, I will watch this again and highly recommend it. Bring tissues!

Free Rein (2017–2019)

Only seen 1 episode so far, but ...

[9/10 · 19 December 2018]

Although I've only seen the Christmas episode (I had never heard of the show and was skipping through Netflix' Christmas movies), I would absolutely heartily recommend this show. The characters are well-drawn, the story is engrossing (and I am not a teen ... more like in my 50s), the acting is really solid, the boys and girls are probably really cute for other teens to like (esp. the girl who plays Gabi -- she is going to be a star, I predict), and over all, this is worth the time investment. There is nothing to dislike in this show.