iamluvd Reviews

A Colder Kind of Death (2001 TV Movie)

Fourth film in the Joanne Kilborn series

[10/10 · 1 August 2003]

We have come to expect an enjoyable ride in this series,and this film is no exception. The path the movie leads us down takes many twists and turns before arriving at the long awaited answer to the question of who killed Joanne Kilborn's husband, Ian. Again, the audience embraces the character of Joanne because of the incredible acting skills of Wendy Crewson, who conveys all the mixed emotions of a widow who is desperate for answers, but afraid of what she will find in her search. Ms. Crewson just keeps getting better and better, as she continues to "flesh out" this fictional character, making us all believe she could exist as the "neighbor next door".

The Wandering Soul Murders (2001 TV Movie)

Third film in the Joanne Kilborn series

[10/10 · 31 July 2003]

I loved the changes that we see in the character of Joanne Kilborn in this installment. She is branching out into the world of Television journalism, bringing her own brand of honest and ethical views of law enforcement to the public eye. She is more confident and seems to have her personal life more in order. This being said, Wendy Crewson, as expected, continues to deliver in this role. She effectively portrays the worried mother, as she watches her oldest son become involved in a toxic relationship, and she carries that concern and compassion to include girls trapped in prostitution, trying to help them change their lives while she is also busy solving several murders in her spare time. Is there nothing Joanne Kilborn can't do?!!! Ms. Crewson makes it all engaging entertainment. What more can we ask?

Deadly Appearances (2000 TV Movie)

Second Joanne Kilborn film in the series

[10/10 · 31 July 2003]

In this film we see the character of Joanne Kilborn continue to move forward in her personal life, while continuing to impress us with her keen investigation skills. This time the murder victim is her late husband's political buddy. And while she moves ever closer to solving the case, she has to face disappointment and disillusionment in this man she had respected and admired for so many years. Once again, Wendy Crewson brings this wonderful character to life and through her top notch performance the audience becomes more enthralled with this spunky widow who has the tenacity of a bull dog. Only Ms. Crewson could find just the right blend of toughness and tenderness that keeps us all on the hook, right to the very end. See this film....then hurry on to the third installment - "The Wandering Soul Murders".

The Good Son (1993)

Disturbing film, but Wendy Crewson makes it worthwhile.

[10/10 · 31 July 2003]

The subject matter of this film is inarguably disturbing, however the incredible performance by Wendy Crewson makes this a worthwhile movie. She convincingly portrays the unbelievably impossible dilemma of facing the truth about her own child, and then making the only choice she could make. We feel the agony of her loss of her youngest son, the horror she experiences when she discovers that son was murdered by his brother, and the heartbreak she embraces at the end. I don't think any other actress could have brought as much authenticity to this complex character as Wendy Crewson does. See it for her performance alone.

Love and Murder (2000 TV Movie)

First of the Joanne Kilborn series

[10/10 · 30 July 2003]

This is the first film in the popular Joanne Kilborn mysteries, based loosely on the novels by Gail Bowen. Wendy Crewson's portrayal of the widowed ex-cop turned college professor feels genuine. We see her struggling with raising her children alone, grappling with her own loss and the unanswered questions surrounding her husband's murder and dealing with trauma from her own childhood. When her best friend from childhood reappears, and people around her fall prey to murder, Crewson plays the inquisitive friend with relentless sincerity and conviction. She makes us believe that she is just an average "every woman" who has the determination of a relentless blood hound when it comes to finding the answers to all the unknown questions. The fact that she can portray the hard nosed investigator/suburban mother/best friend/daughter of an alcoholic mother with seamless grace and ease is just another testament of her amazing talent.

Summer's End (1999 TV Movie)

Great Family movie

[30 July 2003]

This is a great family movie that deals with the ever important issue of racial bigotry in a way that is never "preachy" but instead, moving and thought provoking. The performances are outstanding making each character multi-dimensional rather than the standard fair of bigot vs. liberal. James Earl Jones is remarkable as always, drawing us into the life and history of his character and making us care. Another stand out performance is that of Wendy Crewson - who never ceases to amaze in that she can take a small part, and create something memorable from it. This small movie is a real gem that you don't want to miss. And be sure to share it with someone, as the message is always relevant and bears repeating again and again until this world finally gets it right.

Sleeping Dogs Lie (1998)

Clever Turn on a historical mystery

[10/10 · 30 July 2003]

Great period piece that leads us through many twists and turns as it presents what might have really happened to Ambrose Small. Through clever story telling, the audience finds itself running down all the blind alleys, second guessing "who did it", and sometimes even rooting for the bad guy! Wendy Crewson's performance is simply stellar! She conveys just the right mix of saint and sinner, nun and vixen, to captivate and convince. And, in the end, whether she is the hero or the villian, we don't care. We just know that we have enjoyed the ride!

The Piano Man's Daughter (2003 TV Movie)

Great period piece

[10/10 · 29 July 2003]

This is one of those wonderful sagas that weave the life stories of several generations into one beautiful and captivating film. It tackles tough issues; like mental illness, spousal abuse,emotional family baggage, etc. in a way that enables the audience to identify and relate in this present time, even though the movie is a period piece. The story line follows very closely with the book - which is nothing short of amazing. The success of the film is due largely to the tremendous skill of actress Wendy Crewson, whose role threads through the entire film and ties everything and every one together. Her performance is full of grace and a quiet strength and makes this film a "must see."

The Many Trials of One Jane Doe (2002 TV Movie)

Another great performance by Wendy Crewson

[10/10 · 28 July 2003]

The incredibly important subject matter of this film alone makes it a "must see" but combined with the stellar performance of Wendy Crewson, it elevates the film to something even more important. It is a film that you will never forget. It is a film that will have an impact on how you think and feel about crime and victims of crime. Ms. Crewson draws you into the fear, confusion, determination and courage of the real "Jane Doe" from the very start of the movie and holds you tightly there through the conclusion. Don't miss it. It needs to be made available for purchase on DVD...and soon!

Perfect Pie (2002)

Great friendship movie

[10/10 · 28 July 2003]

Perfect Pie is a beautiful film about friendship. It weaves the past with the present and the stellar performances of the actresses make the trip through time seamless and enjoyable. Wendy Crewson's portrayal of Patsy is gentle and lovely while never allowing the audience to lose sight of the character's inner strength and determination. A "must see" movie for anyone who has ever had a best friend.

Suddenly Naked (2001)

Exceptionally witty film

[10/10 · 28 July 2003]

There is a lot of punch in this little movie! It is intellectually witty and engaging without becoming too much of a farce. The dialog is laced with scarcasm and bite and draws the audience to relax and just enjoy the ride. Wendy Crewson is fabulous! She shoulders most of the movie (which is a real treat for her fans!) and she does so with effortless grace. We laugh with her, we cry with her, and we cringe FOR her in some scenes! Suddenly Naked is simply a treat! Watch it expecting to be entertained, and you will be!

Escape Velocity (1999)

Wendy Crewson is great, even though the movie is not

[10/10 · 28 July 2003]

Ok...watch this movie and just have fun! There are a lot of things that the audience could pick apart - like the ridiculously long space ship, or the countless meaningless shots of empty corridors, or the sometimes 'campy' dialog. AND...I can't leave out the irritating character of the daughter, Ronnie. She whines and whines and ...ok, you get the picture. BUT...Wendy Crewson is great! It is such fun to see her as the tough gal with a gun! It proves again, that this fabulous actress can turn just about any role into a gem. She is gutsy and sexy, and even manages to be convincingly maternal with her whiney daughter. That alone should have guaranteed her an academy award nod! Don't expect "Aliens"...just expect an evening of entertainment. This little film can deliver that.