JBThackery Reviews

Love Upstream (2021 TV Movie)

FAR ABOVE AVERAGE! Thoroughly enjoyed it.

[10/10 · 28 January 2023]

This is certainly not your run of the mill Hallmark rendering. It is totally original from the beginning. I actually watched it with my wife, a total devotee of the genre, which I seldom do; but I found it so enchanting and entertaining from the beginning, I stayed with it.

To start with, the casting caught my eye as superbly representative of their characters. The leads were real, talented, intriguing, and attractive, and shared great chemistry between them. The lighting, color balance, photography, editing, and directing were superlative. The storyline drew me in and kept me too enthralled to leave the TV.

I particularly enjoyed the transformance of the leads into deeper persons who find themselves through their joint novel experiences, all among a realistic support cast who helped hold the flow together.

A Christmas to Remember (2016 TV Movie)

A pleasure to watch!

[10/10 · 28 October 2022]

To start with, the acting is very realistic, and you feel like the people are really going through the situations they are in. There is a warmth and an attractive feeling throughout the film, which can appeal to all ages' families, and individuals. The script is unique and captivating from the beginning.

You want the amnesia victim, and her rescuer, to move into a relationship, but they move at a steady, natural pace. Family unity brings a mutually supportive atmosphere, exemplifying what love and harmony can achieve.

On the technical side, one finds the cinematography, camera work, editing, etc, to be exceptionally well balanced. My family intends to see this lovable film again.

God's Club (2015)

Deserves more respect than hostile reviewers are giving.

[10/10 · 12 September 2022]

The production is good quality, including acting, photography, editing, writing. Reviewers are calling it confrontational to "nonbelievers," but the "believing" characters are under assault, while responding with passivity, kindness, and forgiveness.

The message is uplifting and healing, realistic, and much needed in today's world. A wide range of emotions and deep-hearted human struggle are ameliorated in the script and via sensitive, intelligent portrayal of the characters.

I admire the work that went into the lighting and camera work, as well as the directing, and am impressed with how scene after scene knits together coherently. Of course, the same must be said for the screenplay, which has a noticeable master's touch in holding the overall story, and each individual scene, in a form and pattern that bring smooth viewing.

Cinematography and message are so good, I will watch it again and recommend it to others.

The Ultimate Legacy (2016 TV Movie)

No free leg from V.A. for wounded vet ?

[7/10 · 10 September 2022]

Acting, directing, editing were impressive. So was a very original script.

Now, correct me if I'm wrong... but I tuned in about midstream, and it seems they were raising funds to get a war amputee a prosthetic leg? As pathetique as the V. A. is in providing timely medical care, they do still give such casulties free treatment. A visitor also came in the V. A. med center and undertook to start the vet's physical therapy based on his own ideas, as if the V. A. hadn't even thought of that. This blew the film off course from my perspective.

But great values and stirring situations rendered a watchable film.

Love on the Rise (2020 TV Movie)

Katrina Norman is about all there is to this film.

[7/10 · 25 August 2022]

I didn't mind the formulaic plot, used so many, many times by Hallmark. But there was no warmth or chemistry. The only deep acting skill was shown by the lead, Ms. Norman. Oh, the others had talent, but it was not used to its fullest capacity. Ms. Norman brought true emotion and focus to her role.

Shoelaces for Christmas (2018 TV Movie)

Uplifting; something for everyone.

[10/10 · 28 July 2022]

Balanced story all the way through. Plot and characters develope evenly and naturally. The story shows ways that confused, aimless, selfish persons can realistically find themselves and reach social worth and fulfillment, while also strengthening a family.

Love on Trend (2021 TV Movie)

Inconsistent lighting takes away from otherwise good film.

[6/10 · 11 May 2022]

Lighting is not balanced throughout the film. Almost every scene renders some cast members into practically different people, especially Allie and Marie. Often I could not tell if I were looking at the same people. Some cast even seemed to gain and lose substantial amounts of weight from one scene to another, while beauty varied from common to exquisite.

Too bad: because despite starting with a near-impossible plot catalyst, the script and acting are actually quite good, the characters are interesting, and the action flow holds the attention.

The lighting quality did improve as the film progressed. I would watch it again.

Aloha with Love (2022 TV Movie)

Finally, something original I can get into.

[10/10 · 9 May 2022]

Finally, an original script with truly emoting actors. Combine these elements with fine directing, photography, locations, editing, and color and lighting, and you've got an enjoyable film you want to stay with. Less formulaic, more creative. Tiffany Smith and Branscombe Richmond lead the cast in truly emotional acting, enhanced by an intelligent, team-coordinated support cast.

Together Forever Tea (2021 TV Movie)

Excellent; Ms Chamberlin is awesome but needs diction lessons.

[10/10 · 24 February 2022]

Beautiful story, scenery, photography. Original plot is charming. Ms. Chamberlin and entire cast are great actors, but she nasally mumbles most her lines, often to the point of being incomprehensible. All the others speak perfectly throughout. She makes up for this with charm, timing, intelligence, and spot-on acting. Love the story and setting. Love Ms. Chamberlin and all cast. Great for watching with your sweetheart.

The Crickets Dance (2020)

Gratuitous bloody violence, bloody beating of women, nudity, rage. Not for families

[1/10 · 18 February 2022]

Not for families, children, or anyone with a humane nature. I was expecting a pleasant film, then halfway through there was nudity and implied sex. About one third was devoted to whipping of slaves, bloody kicking and punching of women, yanking a not-completely-delivered baby from its mother's womb followed by implied murder of the baby. This is a very sick film and unworthy to be aired on the Hallmark Channel.

Christmas in the Rockies (2020 TV Movie)

Script ruins it all

[1/10 · 17 January 2022]

Attractive cast, acting is okay. But how can a little slip of a girl, who has never touched an axe, expect to just sign up and compete with rugged lumberjacks who have years of experience? Too many worthy, starving screenwriters are out there, needing work, to waste resources on this production.

All She Wants for Christmas (2006 TV Movie)

Refreshingly pleasant acting; fun to watch.

[8/10 · 15 January 2022]

The acting is bright and intelligent, with pleasant relationships. It is also refreshing to have an original plot, not just ground out from the predictable "movie mill" taking over. Photography, color balance, editing, sound, casting, makeup, and music all work together well. The director was on top of this one.

Loved the variety of locations and quality of sets. Action is real, and varies in a captivating flow.

Joy for Christmas (2021 TV Movie)

Cindy Busby sparkles!

[9/10 · 29 December 2021]

The script is more original than usual for this genre, and reaches out more to the heart. The cast are on their toes, and demonstrate great chemistry. The plot and action get on a role and never lose momentum and entertainment value.

Sam Page and Cindy Busby balance each other out; he calms her anxiety, and she motivates him to do some good. Everyone can come away from this film feeling the good in life, and wanting to do something to make the world better.

Glad it is decent for my family's viewing. And Cindy, you one fine, pro actress!

Very Cool Christmas (2004 TV Movie)

Idiotic. Not entertaining. Nothing redeeming or intriguing.

[1/10 · 9 December 2021]

Silly and shallow from the start. Everyone acts like imbiciles. Big cast names like George Hamilton and Donna Mills can't save it. About half way through, the main two ninny girls are still whining about how they want to avoid a traditional Christmas, with nothing accomplished. This film will not entertain; find a better way to spend your evening.

Beauty and the Beast: A Latter-Day Tale (2007)

Original, captivating, really absorbs the viewer.

[10/10 · 4 November 2021]

Contrary to what the title may suggest, this movie is original and pleasantly unpredictable. The production is consistently coherent all the way through. The acting is genuine, and keeps you on the edge of your seat wondering what will happen next. There are enduring moments, and stressful moments, with everything resolving via perfect writing and directing.

The acting is skillful and genuine. Editing is smooth. Above all, the Christian message is uplifting and inspiring, demonstrating in a realistic manner that faith can be renewed, and life's challenges can be overcome.

One reviewer stated that this cannot be a Christian movie because it was filmed in Utah. Not only is this untrue, this is a violation of what this forum is about. Just watch the film and see if you don't find a pleasant evening passing before your eyes and through your heart.

The Town That Came A-Courtin' (2014)

Fake accents and dumb acting hurt this good film

[7/10 · 4 September 2021]

In the first several minutes, some of the cast talk some unrecognizable accent they consider Southern. My family have been Southerners for over 300 years, and I have never known anyone who talks this way. Moreover, some of them they act dumb. Southerners have the same distribution of intelligence and culture as anyplace else, and some of the cast are an embarrassment to Southerners, and to the classy author, Ronda Rich. Otherwise, it is a clever story, original and entertaining. Several minutes into the film, the actors mellow their vocalisms and antics, rendering it more enjoyable to watch. Some supporting cast members are superb. Too bad it took me three attempts over two years before I could get past the opening scenes of braying fake Southerners. Worth watching.

Princess (2008 TV Movie)

Refreshing, original, intriguing, romantic, fun.

[10/10 · 16 August 2021]

This film is refreshing, original, intriguing, romantic, and fun for all ages. What initially seem to be familiar "princess and castle" scenarios soon reveal the most unusual and original writing. The viewer cannot look away for a moment, so entertaining and intriguing is every scene. And the film proves a production can be clean and decent and still fascinate. There is also a positive, altruistic cause being worked toward, reflecting the good in us all.

Home Sweet Home (I) (2020)

Beautiful talent and message. Gives hope.

[10/10 · 11 August 2021]

The leads and support cast are very professional. Great timing. Super photogenic. Their chemistry is so bonding, you think it is all real. Natasha, your depth comes through. Even playing a dizzy takes intelligence, and you've sure got it. All you cast are pros. Recommending this film to many people.

Christmas at the Chateau (2019)

Refreshing and original. Fantastic acting.

[9/10 · 23 July 2021]

You seldom see such realistic acting. Ms. Redmond in particular expresses such a range and depth of emotion. Her sobbing scenes are especially impressive, moreso when one considers that most scenes usually require several takes in order to compare angles, lighting, etc. All the cast pulled together in chemical harmony to render a story both unique and captivating.

Remember Sunday (2013 TV Movie)

Crisp, original. Fantastic story and acting.

[10/10 · 22 July 2021]

Most original script to come along in some time! I was riveted to the screen. Saw it three times. Enjoyed each viewing. The leads capture your heart and you live the story. Well shot and directed. But the story is so cool and captivating, you don't dare pause for a break.

The Heart of Christmas (2011 TV Movie)

AMAZING acting!

[10/10 · 21 July 2021]

I felt like I was right there with them all. So real and professionally acted. You feel moved by the emotions and want to see them get through their trials. The child actors are tops in their field! I couldn't imagine how these tots could take such complex directing so well. And their filling the roles of their little charactors was so impressive. Directing, music, camera work, editing, and cinematography are spot-on. My faith, and appreciation, were greatly bolstered.

Emerson Heights (2020)

Family-friendly, until the surprise sex scene.

[2/10 · 16 July 2021]

Initially I felt so safe as I screened it for the family. Pleasant, kind characters. Interesting plot and scenarios. Suddenly the couple are going at it in the bedroom, which changes it to an entirely different genre. Some may say that's real life. I just thing it was directorial blundering which mixed genres. Goes from cheery, to downer.

Cinematography, acting, photography, editing, and directing otherwise make the grade.

This Little Love of Mine (2021)

Refreshing, beautiful, original, fun.

[10/10 · 9 July 2021]

I can't tell the cast are Aussies. Great acting. They could play it as Aussies OR Americans, or whatever, and bring off a nice film.

Some reviewers are whining about them faking as Yanks, but as a Yank myself, I never noticed. Some are TRYING to sound smart by calling this film predictable, shallow, etc. I found every scene original, captivating, and entertaining. Watch this film! Fun, refreshing, and... hey... even clean!

All Good Things (II) (2019)

Good for your soul !

[10/10 · 8 July 2021]

Wonderful script. Superior acting. Excellent scenery and directing. Principal characters progress from twits to charmers. Such range of acting skills! A lot to be learned about values. This film gives confidence and insight into hope-sources. Great for individuals and families. Going to share this one.

Spotlight on Christmas (2020 TV Movie)

Strong, original script. Great acting.

[10/10 · 2 July 2021]

The script is far more original than one usually sees in this genre. Plot moves well. Every scene refreshing. Cast are all first rate. Each scene flows smoothly. Photography, lighting, color balance are all pleasant. I felt like I was right there in the story. I sensed I was part of what was happening. Characters are appealing and real. Genuine performance, adapting well from good writing, directing, and cinematography.