Take 3: The Perfect Bride: Wedding Bells Review

On June 10, 2018July 17, 2018 By 18cinemalaneLeave a comment

With all this talk of wedding themed movies, I realized that the only wedding themed movie I’ve reviewed so far is Wedding March 3: Here Comes the Bride. This gave me a good excuse to watch The Perfect Bride: Wedding Bells and review it for my blog! The Perfect Bride was one of my favorite movies from Hallmark’s “June Weddings” line-up last year! So, when it was announced that Hallmark would be giving this movie a sequel, I couldn’t have been more excited. Kavan Smith and Pascale Hutton have quickly become popular within the realm of Hallmark, especially after their characters, Rosemary and Lee, became an official couple on When Calls the Heart. With fantastic on-screen chemistry on one of Hallmark’s popular shows, it seemed like a good idea to cast both Kavan and Pascale as the lead protagonists in a Hallmark production. Though I can only speak for myself, I feel that having Kavan and Pascale lead a Hallmark movie together was one of the best decisions in Hallmark movie history! After reading all these great things about the first Perfect Bride movie, you’re probably wondering how I felt about the sequel. You’ll just have to keep reading my review of The Perfect Bride: Wedding Bells in order to find out!

The Perfect Bride Wedding Bells poster — *The Perfect Bride: Wedding Bells* poster created by Crown Media Family Networks and Hallmark Channel. Image found at https://www.crownmediapress.com/Shows/PRShowDetail?SiteID=142&FeedBoxID=845&NodeID=302&ShowType=&ShowTitle=The+Perfect+Bride+Wedding+Bells.

Things I liked about the film:

The acting: The Perfect Bride: Wedding Bells had a good cast. I liked seeing the various character interactions, especially since the majority of the characters in this movie are from the first movie. Speaking of which, Kavan Smith and Pascale Hutton’s performances were the highlight of this film, just like they were in the first movie! Both of their talents are so well-rounded and versatile, with each actor complimenting the other.

The on-screen chemistry: Last month, I said that Torrance Coombs and Fiona Gubelmann had the best on-screen chemistry in any Hallmark movie this year. However, Kavan and Pascale’s on-screen chemistry takes the number one spot for best on-screen chemistry among the Hallmark movies in 2018! Like in the first movie, Kavan and Pascale came across like they truly got along with each other. Their on-screen chemistry was believable and enjoyable to watch!

The humor: The Perfect Bride: Wedding Bells had the right amount of humor. I felt like it really complimented the romantic elements the film had to offer. I also think that Kavan Smith had such great comedic timing!

152398-OUS8J8-399 — Wedding couple image created by Freepik at freepik.com. <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/hand-drawn-wedding-invitation-with-happy-couple_1259848.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/wedding”>Wedding vector created by Freepik</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

What I didn’t like about the film:

A slower pace: The pace in The Perfect Bride: Wedding Bells was slower than in the first movie. It picked up when Nick and Molly started planning their wedding, but only by a little bit.

Too many conflicts: There were three major conflicts in this movie: Nick and Molly preparing for their wedding, Molly having to work with her ex, and Nick organizing his first art show. It like these conflicts were competing between each other for the attention of the audience. Because of this, things that made the first movie so memorable, like the Bridal Boot Camp itself, ended up getting overshadowed.

The planning-a-wedding-in-an-unrealistic-time-period cliché: This movie, unfortunately, adopted one of my least favorite Hallmark movie clichés. What’s worse about this cliché in The Perfect Bride: Wedding Bells is that almost all the supporting characters remind the protagonists that they don’t have to plan a wedding in an unrealistic time period. There are even times when the protagonists remind each other about this dilemma. At first, this was funny because I felt like these characters were representing my opinions as an audience member. As the movie goes on, this became annoying because anyone who has seen enough wedding themed Hallmark movies would know how this cliché plays out.

61555-OB5ZO0-824 — Wedding couple with cameras image created by Freepik at freepik.com. <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/original-cards-for-wedding-photography_913021.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/logo”>Logo vector created by Freepik</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

My overall impression:

The Perfect Bride: Wedding Bells was a good movie, but not as good as the first one. It felt like a step backward, kind of reminding me of how I felt after watching All of My Heart: Inn Love. After watching the sequel, I ended up feeling more disappointed that I had hoped. Kavan and Pascale deserve to lead a really good to great Hallmark movie, especially because of how talented they are individually and as a pair. Both of them shine so bright in their own movies on Hallmark as well as on When Calls the Heart! Hopefully, Kavan and Pascale can continue to be cast together in more Hallmark productions as the years go on.

Overall score: 7.6 out of 10

Have you seen The Perfect Bride: Wedding Bells? Do you want to see Kavan Smith and Pascale Hutton star in more Hallmark movies? Share your thoughts in the comment section!

Have fun at the movies!

Sally Silverscreen

Word on the Street: Hallmark releases official synopsis for Signed, Sealed, Delivered: To the Altar and Yes, I Do

On June 8, 2018June 8, 2018 By 18cinemalaneLeave a comment

As Hallmark’s “June Weddings” line-up continues to be in full swing, Hallmark recently released a synopsis for two upcoming, wedding themed films! These films are Signed, Sealed, Delivered: To the Altar and Yes, I Do. Last month, I talked about how the newest Signed, Sealed, Delivered installment received an official movie page on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries’ website. Now, with the synopsis being incorporated into that page, it looks like all the important elements of Signed, Sealed, Delivered: To the Altar’s movie page are falling into place very nicely. Back in April, I wondered if a movie called “I Do” could replace “Dream On” in Hallmark’s “June Weddings” line-up. Well, “I Do” became Yes, I Do and it is definitely a part of the “June Weddings” line-up! With this latest movie news, keep on reading and see what I think about each synopsis!

41327-O2Y556 — Bride and Groom image created by Freepik at freepik.com <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/nice-couple-wedding-invitation_841530.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a> <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/wedding”>Wedding vector created by Freepik</a> Image found at freepik.com

Two days ago, Hallmark released a synopsis for Signed, Sealed, Delivered: To the Altar on both the Crown Media Family Networks’ and Hallmark Movies & Mysteries’ website. Here is the synopsis featured on the movie’s official pages from each website:

From the website of Crown Media Family Networks:

“Just a week before Rita and Norman’s long-awaited wedding day, the POstables go beyond the call of duty when, after completing their postal mission, they attempt a much bigger reunion – that of a mother and daughter separated by the years”.

From the website of Hallmark Movies & Mysteries:

“When plans for Rita and Norman’s long-awaited wedding begins falling apart days before their nuptials, their challenges inspire changes that make their wedding more meaningful. Meanwhile, Shane convinces Oliver that the team should urgently focus on finding clues to deliver a package containing a wedding dress”.

Personally, I find the Signed, Sealed, Delivered series to be very hit-or-miss. Even though I plan on watching this movie with an open mind, both of these movie descriptions don’t really add any excitement or anticipation for me. One of these reasons is how “on-the-nose” some of the story elements sound. I’m not a fan of the title of this film because it doesn’t have a creative, double meaning like the other Signed, Sealed, Delivered titles (an example: Signed, Sealed, Delivered: Lost Without You; where the title is not only about the military veteran and his K-9 companion, but also about the POstables themselves). From a creative perspective, I think the package could have contained a wedding memento that didn’t feel so obviously connected to the POstables’ story, such as a flower girl’s basket. The specific story associated with this basket could have been relatable to all the POstables, not just the engaged couple (maybe the story behind the basket could be about childhood dreams vs. grown-up expectations). Both of these movie descriptions also make it sound like Hallmark will, once again, adopt the planning-a-wedding-in-an-unrealistic-time-period cliché. I am curious about something that was mentioned in the synopsis from Crown Media Family Networks. It was mentioned that a “mother and daughter” were “separated by the years”. In the previous Signed, Sealed, Delivered installment, Shane revealed that she has a sister who, Shane feels, tore her family apart. Maybe the POstables’ “mission” will involve helping Shane and her family heal? We’ll have to wait until July 15^th to find out.

Link to the official movie page for Signed, Sealed, Delivered: To the Altar on Crown Media Family Networks’ website: https://www.crownmediapress.com/Shows/PRShowDetail?SiteID=143&FeedBoxID=845&NodeID=302&ShowType=series&ShowTitle=Signed%2c+Sealed%2c+Delivered+To+the+Altar

Link to the synopsis on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries’ website: http://www.hallmarkmoviesandmysteries.com/signed-sealed-delivered-to-the-altar/about-signed-sealed-delivered-to-the-altar

Signed Sealed Delivered To the Altar poster — *Signed, Sealed, Delivered: To the Altar* poster created by Crown Media Family Networks and Hallmark Movies & Mysteries. Image found at https://www.crownmediapress.com/Shows/PRShowDetail?SiteID=143&FeedBoxID=845&NodeID=302&ShowType=series&ShowTitle=Signed%2c+Sealed%2c+Delivered+To+the+Altar

Yesterday, Crown Media Family Networks released the synopsis for one of their “June Weddings” movies, Yes, I Do, on their website. This movie is about the following:

“Busy chocolatier Charlotte has left her boyfriend James at the alter three times and now she needs to prove to him that she really does want to marry him. Things are complicated when James’ ex-girlfriend Nicole, who is also the owner of Chocolate Monthly Magazine, arrives on the scene and says she wants him back”.

Honestly, I think the majority of this synopsis sounds too ridiculous for my liking. Also, I’m not a fan of this title either, as it doesn’t sound very creative. However, I like how Hallmark is highlighting an occupation that hasn’t been featured in a Hallmark movie before (a chocolatier). I’m also happy that Marcus Rosner has finally gotten a lead role in a Hallmark movie! Ever since he first appeared on When Calls the Heart in 2015, he has proven that he has what it takes to be a leading actor on Hallmark Channel. The question is: will he put all the talent he has into this role like he has in his other supporting actor roles? We’ll have to watch Yes, I Do to find out.

Link to the official movie page for Yes, I Do on Crown Media Family Networks’ website: https://www.hallmarkchannelpress.com/Shows/PRShowDetail?SiteID=142&FeedBoxID=845&NodeID=302&ShowType=&ShowTitle=Yes%2c+I+Do

Yes I Do poster — *Yes, I Do* poster created by Crown Media Family Networks and Hallmark Channel. Image found at https://www.hallmarkchannelpress.com/Shows/PRShowDetail?SiteID=142&FeedBoxID=845&NodeID=302&ShowType=&ShowTitle=Yes%2c+I+Do

What are your thoughts about these movie descriptions? Are you looking forward to any of these films? Let me know in the comment section!

Have fun at the movies!

Sally Silverscreen

Word on the Street: Hallmark creates movie pages for upcoming Garage Sale Mystery and Signed, Sealed, Delivered films!

On May 22, 2018May 22, 2018 By 18cinemalaneLeave a comment

Though Hallmark has been busy promoting their “June Weddings” line-up, the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries channel has recently created two site pages promoting their mystery films! Both of these upcoming films celebrate the range of storytelling that Hallmark’s second network is capable of sharing. While one film is about solving a murder case, the other is about celebrating a wedding. Each of these films are a continuing installment in their own respective series. I will talk about both of these movie pages and share my thoughts on each one. Time to start talking about these upcoming films!

Movie items image created by Macrovector at freepik.com <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/cinema-poster-sketch_1530892.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a> <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/background”>Background vector created by Macrovector – Freepik.com</a> Image found at freepik.com

The first film to receive a movie page is Signed, Sealed, Delivered: To the Altar. According to Hallmark Movies & Mysteries’ website, this movie will be released sometime in July. Even though a synopsis has not been published yet, the movie stills for the newest Signed, Sealed, Delivered installment indicate that the film will primarily focus on the wedding of Norman and Rita. Because this is, so far, the only wedding themed movie on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, it surprises me that it wasn’t given a release date in June to correlate with the “June Weddings” line-up on Hallmark Channel. While there are three new Hailey Dean mystery movies premiering in June, there are no known movies airing on June 24^th. Maybe Hallmark will push Signed, Sealed, Delivered: To the Altar to that last Sunday in June instead of releasing it in July? There’s no story details released by Hallmark about this movie yet, but there’ll eventually be revealed as the date comes closer.

Link to the movie page for Signed, Sealed, Delivered: To the Altar: http://www.hallmarkmoviesandmysteries.com/signed-sealed-delivered-to-the-altar

Vintage postcard wedding invitation background — Wedding postcard created by Kraphix at freepik.com.<a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/postcard-for-a-wedding-invitation_1058640.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/wedding”>Wedding vector created by Kraphix – Freepik.com</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

The next film to achieve a movie page is Garage Sale Mystery: The Pandora’s Box Murders. Not only is the movie premiering on August 5^th, but the movie’s synopsis has also been released! This new installment is the first Garage Sale Mystery film to air within Garage Sale Mystery month and I, honestly, couldn’t be more excited! This is one of Hallmark Movies & Mysteries’ strongest movie series, with last year’s first Garage Sale Mystery month being well-executed! When August rolls around, I will definitely try to review at least one of these movies for 18 Cinema Lane!

Link to the movie page for Garage Sale Mystery: The Pandora’s Box Murders: http://www.hallmarkmoviesandmysteries.com/garage-sale-mystery-the-pandoras-box-murders

cool business-woman with puzzle cube — Woman solving wooden puzzle photo created by Asier_relampagoestudio at freepik.com. <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/woman-with-suit-resolving-a-wooden-intelligence-game_1023902.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/business”>Business image created by Asier_relampagoestudio – Freepik.com</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

What do you think about these movie pages? Are you looking forward to either Garage Sale Mystery: The Pandora’s Box Murders or Signed, Sealed, Delivered: To the Altar? Share how you feel in the comment section!

Have fun at the movies!

Sally Silverscreen

Word on the Street: Hallmark reveals “June Weddings” line-up!

On May 13, 2018 By 18cinemalaneLeave a comment

With the month of May being half-way over, Hallmark has wasted no time preparing for the next movie line-up: “June Weddings”. Recently, Hallmark announced a preview special that would air on Hallmark Channel on May 19^th. The hosts of the preview will be Pascale Hutton and Kavan Smith, stars of The Perfect Bride: Wedding Bells. Following this announcement, Hallmark revealed the four movies that would make their debuts in June! The movies are:

Marrying Mr. Darcy – June 2^nd
The Perfect Bride: Wedding Bells – June 9^th
Love at First Dance – June 16^th
Wedding March 4: Something Old, Something New – June 23^rd

There’s a few things I noticed about this particular line-up. Last month, I talked about how “Dream On” (the Summer of Dreams sequel) was not going to be a part of the “June Weddings” line-up because of the film’s production dates. Even though the movie had its title changed to “Wedding of Dreams” (according to What’s Filming), it looks like I was correct about this speculation. Another speculation that I had was about “Wedding Dance” possibly being the last movie in the “June Weddings” line-up. I was correct about that speculation too, though the film is now known as Love at First Dance. The only “June Weddings” speculation I was incorrect about was Wedding March 4: Something Old, Something New being moved to a different movie line-up. When production for the next installment of the Wedding March series was pushed back to May, I honestly thought it wasn’t going to be ready in time for any June release dates. But, having the fourth Wedding March movie be the last film to premiere in the line-up does seem to make sense, with the film possibly being edited during the line-up’s run.

75628-OEJ0NK-229 — Wedding cake image created by Freepik at freepik.com. <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/enjoyable-wedding-card_953556.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/frame”>Frame vector created by Freepik</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

What do you think about the “June Weddings” line-up? Which film are you looking forward to the most? Share your thoughts in the comment section!

Have fun at the movies!

Sally Silverscreen

Link to the official “June Weddings” preview page: https://www.crownmediapress.com/Shows/PRShowDetail?SiteID=142&FeedBoxID=845&NodeID=302&ShowType=&ShowTitle=2018+June+Weddings+Preview+Special

Link to the “In Production” page for the Vancouver and British Columbia areas: http://www.whatsfilming.ca/inproduction/ (if you visit this page after May 18th, Love at First Dance will be taken off this list. Also, if you visit this page after May 25th, “Wedding of Dreams” will be taken off this list.)

Word on the Street: Speculations about potential Hallmark movies

On May 8, 2018May 8, 2018 By 18cinemalaneLeave a comment

What’s Filming never fails to surprise me when new projects pop up on their website. Recently, two movie titles appeared on What’s Filming that instantly caught my eye. As I thought about both of these movies, I wondered if they could possibly be Hallmark movies? In this ‘Word on the Street’ post, I will be talking about each movie and explain why I think they could be Hallmark movies. Let the conversation begin!

preview — Canada postage stamp image created by Ibrandify at freepik.com <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/canadian-flag-stamp-template_836872.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a> <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/template”>Template vector created by Ibrandify – Freepik.com</a> Image found at freepik.com

Listed at the bottom of the “In Production” page for the Vancouver and British Columbia area is a movie titled “Wedding Dance”. Right away, the title indicates that this will likely be a wedding themed movie. Last month, I mentioned that Hallmark released a trailer for their “June Weddings” line-up, announcing that four movies will be released in June. Maybe this movie is the missing piece to the “June Weddings” puzzle? What’s also important to mention is that “Wedding Dance” is currently filming until May 18^th. If this were a Hallmark film, it would give the creative team behind this movie enough time to edit the film for a mid to late June release. The only actors that are currently attached to the project are Jason Cermak and Cecilia Deacon. Jason is no stranger to Hallmark, as he has appeared in nine Hallmark films and on two episodes of When Calls the Heart. According to her filmography on IMDB, Cecilia has appeared in only one Hallmark movie, which was Signed, Sealed, Delivered: Home Again. Hallmark has not made any official announcements about “Wedding Dance”, so we’ll have to wait to find out if it truly is a “June Weddings” film.

Link to the “In Production” page for the Vancouver and British Columbia area: http://www.whatsfilming.ca/inproduction/ (if you visit this page after May 18th, “Wedding Dance” will be taken off the list)

Beautiful wedding dance — First wedding dance image created by Teksomolika at freepik.com. <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/newlyweds-dancing-at-their-wedding_983404.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/wedding”>Wedding image created by Teksomolika – Freepik.com</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

On the “Upcoming” list for the Vancouver and British Columbia area, I spotted a movie titled “Poinsettias for Christmas”. It will be in production from May 18^th to June 8^th, with no cast currently attached to the project. The reason why I think this movie could be a Hallmark production is the only Hallmark movie, that I’m aware of, that even touches upon the subject of poinsettias is Hearts of Christmas. I can’t think of a Hallmark Christmas movie where poinsettias were the primary focus, so this would be new territory for the network. Hallmark has not made any announcements about “Poinsettias for Christmas” either, so this is another movie that we’ll have to stand by for.

Link to the “Upcoming” page for the Vancouver and British Columbia area: http://www.whatsfilming.ca/upcoming/ (if you visit this page after May 18th, “Poinsettias for Christmas” will be moved to the “In Production” page for the Vancouver and British Columbia areas)

Poinsettia plant leaves. Christmas displays — Poinsettia photo created by Jannoon028 at freepik.com. <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/plant-with-red-leaves_986669.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/flower”>Flower image created by Jannoon028 – Freepik.com</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

What do you think about this movie news? Do you think these movies could be Hallmark productions? Let me know in the comment section!

Have fun at the movies!

Sally Silverscreen

All information about actors and their movie appearances was found on IMDb (Internet Movie Datebase)

Word on the Street: Hallmark movie speculations + Kim Possible leads chosen

On May 2, 2018May 2, 2018 By 18cinemalaneLeave a comment

Since I haven’t delivered any ‘Word on the Street’ stories since early April, I decided to share some speculations about two movies and a confirmed casting announcement that are listed on What’s Filming! I will talk about each of these pieces of movie news, as well as share my thoughts on each one. Now, let’s get started!

Movie ticket image created by Freepik at freepik.com. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/vintage”>Vintage vector created by Freepik</a>. <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/set-of-two-cinema-pass-in-vintage-style_850066.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

Last week, What’s Filming revealed that the leads for the upcoming, live-action adaptation of Kim Possible have been selected! According to a video featured on the What’s Filming website, it was announced that Sean Giambrone, series regular on The Goldbergs, and Sadie Stanley are going to play the beloved characters of Ron Stoppable and Kim Possible. I, honestly, am not surprised that the chosen leads are actors that don’t have household names. This is because Disney Channel, in the past, has casted other actors without household names in their productions, sometimes in an effort to help them become well-known stars. However, I am interested in seeing how Sean and Sadie bring the characters of Ron and Kim to life, as well as how they plan to carry the DCOM (Disney Channel Original Movie) legacy.

Link to the article about Kim Possible on What’s Filming: http://www.whatsfilming.ca/2018/04/10/kim-possible-live-action-movie-based-on-disneys-popular-animated-series-filming-in-vancouver/

Kim Possible article picture — *Kim Possible* poster image created by The Walt Disney Company and Disney Channel © Disney•Pixar. All rights reserved. Disney XD© Disney Enterprises, Inc. Poster image found at http://disneychannel.disney.com/kim-possible

Early in April, I reported that Wedding March 4: Something Old, Something New was in production from April 16^th to May 4^th. Now, according to What’s Filming, the next installment in the Wedding March series appears to have gotten pushed back. Production will now start on May 8^th and end on May 29^th. Because of these new production dates, I’m starting to wonder if this movie will end up getting moved to Hallmark’s “Summer Nights” movie line-up? This would not be the first time that upcoming Hallmark films have changed production dates, leading to potential release date changes. This happened with “Dream On” (the Summer of Dreams sequel) in early April, where I reported that, because of the film’s production dates changing to May, it was likely that the film could end up premiering in the “Summer Nights” line-up. If the new Wedding March movie gets moved out of the “June Weddings” line-up, what wedding themed movie could take its place? We’ll have to wait until Hallmark’s official announcement about their “June Weddings” line-up to find out.

Link to What’s Filming’s “Upcoming” page: http://www.whatsfilming.ca/upcoming/ (if you visit this page after May 29^th, Wedding March 4: Something Old, Something New will be moved to the “In Production” page for the Vancouver and British Columbia area)

While looking on the What’s Filming website, I came across a movie titled “Christmas by the Book”, which is currently in production until May 18^th. When I read that title, I wondered if the movie could be a Christmas themed sequel to 2015’s Love by the Book. Though Hallmark has made no official announcement about this movie, it wouldn’t be the first time that Hallmark has made sequels to original films years after their premiere. Two recent examples are All of My Heart: Inn Love and the previously mentioned film, “Dream On”.

Link to What’s Filming’s “In Production” page: http://www.whatsfilming.ca/inproduction-toronto-ontario/ (if you visit this page after May 18^th, “Christmas by the Book” will be taken off the list)

P0YDNL0 — Christmas book image created by Freepik at freepik.com. <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-psd/christmas-mockup-with-open-book_1482296.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/mockup”>Mockup psd created by Freepik</a>. Image found at freepik.com.

What do you think of this latest movie news? Are you looking forward to any of these films? Share your thoughts below in the comment section!

Have fun at the movies!

Sally Silverscreen

Word on the Street: Hallmark movie production news!

On April 6, 2018April 6, 2018 By 18cinemalaneLeave a comment

One of my favorite sites for movie updates is What’s Filming. Recently, there have been several Hallmark movies that are listed on the website. I noticed that most of these films are wedding themed movies, meaning that Hallmark’s “June Weddings” line-up is coming soon! All of the movies that I’ll be talking about are filming in the Vancouver and British Columbia area. Here is the list:

Marrying Mr. Darcy – Currently in production until April 19^th
The Perfect Bride 2 – Starts production on April 9^th and ends on April 27^th
The Wedding March 4: Something Old, Something New — Starts production on April 16^th and ends on May 4^th
Garage Sale Mystery: A Picture of Murder — Starts production on April 9^th and ends on April 26^th

34995-NZRTLF — Wedding schedule image created by Freepik at freepik.com. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/infographic”>Infographic vector created by Freepik</a>. <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/welcome-to-the-wedding_831989.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>. Image found on freepik.com.

I have a lot of thoughts about this news. For one thing, I’m not a fan of having all of the “June Weddings” movies be sequels. To me, it just feels like Hallmark is putting creativity on hold for the sake of trying to create another movie series. However, I do plan on watching these movies with an open mind. Out of the three “June Weddings” movies listed on What’s Filming, I’m looking forward to The Perfect Bride 2 and The Wedding March 4: Something Old, Something New the most!

I will admit that I was not demanding a sequel to Unleashing Mr. Darcy because, at best, I thought the movie was just decent. My hope for Marrying Mr. Darcy is that it is a better movie than the first one was. On What’s Filming, some of the original cast members from the first movie are attached to the sequel. I really liked seeing this because it shows that Hallmark cares about keeping continuity with the previous film. An article on the website mentioned that Marrying Mr. Darcy will air on Hallmark on June 2^nd, but Hallmark has not made any official announcements yet.

Seeing a new Garage Sale Mystery listed made me happy because I really enjoy watching this series! Out of all of the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries movie series, Garage Sale Mystery is one of the strongest on the network. I did enjoy Garage Sale Mystery month last year, so I’m definitely looking forward to it this August!

94406-OK8HUL-165 — Cute movie icons created by Freepik at freepik.com. <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/camera”>Camera vector created by Freepik</a>. <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/set-of-cute-cartoon-movie-objects_1036379.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>. Image found at freepik.com

What do you think about this news? Looking forward to any of these movies? Share your thoughts in the comments section!

Have fun at the movies!

Sally Silverscreen

Link to the article about Marrying Mr. Darcy on What’s Filming: http://www.whatsfilming.ca/2018/04/03/marrying-mr-darcy-filming-vancouver/?referer=plist-655

Link to the What’s Filming “Upcoming” page: http://www.whatsfilming.ca/upcoming/ (if you visit this page after April 9th and 16th, The Perfect Bride 2, The Wedding March 4: Something Old, Something New, and Garage Sale Mystery: A Picture of Murder will be moved to the “In Production” page for the Vancouver and British Columbia area)

Link to the What’s Filming “In Production” page: http://www.whatsfilming.ca/inproduction/ (if you visit this page after April 19th, Marrying Mr. Darcy will be taken off of this page)

Sunset Over Hope Valley: Absence and a Wedding make a Heart Grow Fonder

On March 19, 2018March 25, 2018 By 18cinemalaneLeave a comment

The day has finally arrived. What Hearties have been waiting four years for has happened after all. Jack Thornton and Elizabeth Thatcher’s wedding was the event of the hour. While everyone was excited to see the couple’s nuptials, it seems like there were several reasons why the Hearties could look forward this episode. Some of the fans were probably happy to see returning characters from previous seasons. Some fans were probably thankful that the creative team behind the show went out of their way to make this most anticipated event happen. Whatever a Heartie’s reason, it was an event that definitely was worth every minute. Now, let’s talk about Jack and Elizabeth’s wedding!

Just a reminder: If you did not see this episode of When Calls the Heart, there may be spoilers within this re-cap.

Season: 5

Episode: 5

Name: My Heart is Yours

Major Stories:

The day of Jack and Elizabeth’s wedding is fast approaching. As members from both the Thornton and Thatcher families arrive in Hope Valley, the excitement for the town’s biggest event is quickly growing. When a fire almost destroys the church, all of the townspeople pitch in to not only clean up the church, but to also help Jack and Elizabeth finish their wedding plans. On the day of the wedding, everyone gets concerned when Bill, one of the groomsmen, is missing. Lee and Rosemary try to figure out a back-up plan in case Bill doesn’t show up with the rings. However, Bill does show up before the wedding starts, with the rings still intact. The wedding and reception play out without any hiccups, everyone in attendance appearing to have a good time.

Days before the wedding, Bill receives a letter that is really addressed to Jack. The letter was asking Jack to help another Mountie transfer a gang member to prison. Bill selflessly goes in Jack’s place so he doesn’t miss his own wedding. The next day, Bill arrives at a house that contains both the Mountie and the gang member. Shortly after his arrival, Bill discovers that the house is surrounded by other members of the prisoner’s gang. After several hours of being trapped by the gang, Jack finds a trap door that leads to the outside. He decides to escape from the house and sneak up on the gang members, which he successfully does. When the mission is complete, Bill comes back to Hope Valley just in time for the wedding. He is able to give the rings to Phillip, the ring bearer, before the wedding starts.

After school, some of Elizabeth’s students talk about the upcoming wedding at the Mercantile. Ruby shares her insecurities about performing her role during the wedding. The group decides to go to the church to practice their roles in the wedding so they can feel prepared. During their practice session, Cody knocks over a candlestick while lighting the candles, which causes a fire inside of the church. None of the children get hurt, but Jack had to rescue Opal. After the incident, Opal is diagnosed with smoke inhalation, but she quickly recovers. There is damage at the church, but the townspeople volunteer to clean up the mess in preparation for the wedding.

Minor stories:

There weren’t really any minor stories in this episode because everything connected back to Jack and Elizabeth’s wedding.

Some thoughts to consider:

The highlight, for me, in this episode was the return of Tom Thornton! Ever since the second season, Tom has been my favorite character on When Calls the Heart. I liked how there were simple but satisfying explanations for character absences and reappearances (especially for Tom). I also appreciate the creative team behind this show putting in the effort to try and bring back as many cast members from the Thornton and Thatcher families as possible. Tom’s appearance in this episode was worth the three year wait.

Overall, I think this episode was solid all around. From the writing to the acting, everything was creatively handled with care. I did have my doubts before this episode aired because the build-up leading to it felt rushed. However, the creative team behind When Calls the Heart proved me wrong and delivered a very memorable episode.

Red sunset clouds over trees. — Sunset image created by Photoangel at freepik.com <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/background”>Background image created by Photoangel – Freepik.com</a> <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/red-sunset-clouds-over-trees_1254327.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a> Image found at freepik.com

What are your thoughts on this episode? Was the wedding everything you had dreamed it would be? Let me know in the comments section!

Have fun in Hope Valley!

Sally Silverscreen

Take 3: Wedding March 3: Here Comes the Bride Review

On February 18, 2018March 25, 2018 By 18cinemalaneLeave a comment

Like a lot of people, I tuned in yesterday for the premiere of Wedding March 3: Here Comes the Bride! After having enjoyed the first two films in the series, I was excited to see how the story would progress for these cherished characters. With new faces and a Valentine backdrop, this movie definitely had potential. Returning the story to our favorite Inn was like coming back home after a long vacation. So, without further “I do”, here is my review for Wedding March 3: Here Comes the Bride!

Wedding March 3 poster — *Wedding March 3: Here Comes the Bride* poster image created by Crown Media Family Networks and Hallmark Channel Poster Image found at https://www.crownmediapress.com/Shows/PRShowDetail?SiteID=142&FeedBoxID=845&NodeID=302&ShowType=&ShowTitle=Wedding%20March%203%20Here%20Comes%20the%20Bride&IsSeries=False

Things I liked about the film:

The acting: The cast, overall, was good in this movie. Jack Wagner’s comedic timing was spot-on! It provided the right amount of comic relief that the film needed. Gabrielle Miller’s performance was one of the most memorable parts of this film! After seeing her appear in Debbie Macomber’s Trading Christmas, Garage Sale Mystery: Murder by Text, Adventures in Babysitting (2016), and on the Good Witch television show, I was so happy when I found out Gabrielle Miller was cast in this movie! The scene where Bonnie was thanking everyone for inviting her to the Inn convinced me that Gabrielle Miller deserves a leading role in a Hallmark film.

Sean’s storyline: I’m not going to spoil anything if you haven’t seen the film, but I thought the subplot surrounding Peter Benson’s character, Sean, was very well written! I was not expecting a mystery in this movie, but I was pleasantly surprised by it. It was not only engaging, but it left me guessing until the “reveal”.

The scenery: I’m glad that the creative team behind this movie was able to film it at the same location as the first two movies. The house itself and everything surrounding it are just beautiful! They fit the tone and atmosphere that the series is always trying to go for!
Multiple heart image created by Harryarts at freepik.com <a href=”https://www.freepik.com/free-photos-vectors/background”>Background vector created by Harryarts – Freepik.com</a> <a href=’https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/modern-valentine-s-day-sale-background-vector_1750807.htm’>Designed by Freepik</a>

What I didn’t like about the film:

The pace: The pace of this movie was a bit slower than the previous films. Because of this, some scenes felt longer than they were intended to be.

Lack of storyline for Nora and Johnny: When Susan Hogan and Serge Houde’s characters, Nora and Johnny, came to the Inn, I was hoping that Johnny would propose to Nora on Valentine’s Day, with their wedding taking place in the next movie. But, unfortunately, none of this happened. It felt like the characters of Nora and Johnny were just there for the sake of being there. Those two characters could have been written out of this movie and it wouldn’t have made a difference.

The planning-a-wedding-in-an-unrealistic-time-period cliché: I don’t know why Hallmark is so infatuated with this particular plot, but they’ve incorporated it into a number of their productions. If I got a piece of candy for every time Hallmark used this plot in their movies and shows, I would have more candy than a trick-or-treater on Halloween.

My overall impression:

Despite its minor issues, Wedding March 3: Here Comes the Bride was a good continuation to the series. This movie was well-written and well-crafted. I saw during the commercial break that there is a fourth movie on the way this June! Where the story goes is something that does make me curious. I’m definitely looking forward to it and will review the film here at 18 Cinema Lane!

Overall score: 7.8-7.9 out of 10

Have you seen the newest Wedding March movie? If so, what are your thoughts? Jump into the comment section and share what you think.

Have fun at the movies!

Sally Silverscreen