It’s the time of year when everyone rushes to publish their “best” lists. Yes, I am planning to list my favorites, and I readily admit I have an eclectic taste in all-things-entertainment, so you may not find my best of list helpful. Remember to “take what you like and leave the rest.” First, I would like to share my reviews of things I watched this past month. While some are Christmas movies, the one I loved I would argue are worth watching no matter the season.

Netflix

• “Falling for Christmas” I watched this on a dreary day when I just needed a Lindsay Lohan typical happy Christmas movie. No original plot, just sweet entertainment when you just need some laughs and maybe a sentimental tear or two.
• “The Christmas Classic” I love movies that focus on reconciliation of family members (especially sisters) and people owning their responsibility in the destruction of relationships. I also love  it when young adults realize that their view of childhood may not match that of their siblings, or maybe even what actually happened.
• “Man vs. Baby” This four-part series is utterly delightful. Starring Rowan Atkinson (of Mr. Bean fame) as a fired school janitor left with an abandoned baby on Christmas Eve, this was a total A+ for me. 
• “KPop Demon Hunters” I had not watched the most popular movie in Netflix’s history. When my youngest daughter arrived home for Christmas, she asked me to watch it with her. I was shocked at how much I liked it! I even started listening to the catchy soundtrack. I love communal viewing and movies that families can watch together, and this movie definitely fills that bill. 

Amazon Prime

• “Oh. What. Fun.” Any woman in charge of Christmas will appreciate this movie! Michelle Pfeiffer and Denis Leary portray parents anticipating very different celebrations. My husband, John, even enjoyed this comedy, which, in our house, is a big deal. A fun fact: the child actors are signed with the agency I am lucky to work with. (Hope you caught Henri Lowe’s article last month so that crazy sentence makes sense.)
• “The Girlfriend” Robin Wright brilliantly stars as a mother who is suspicious of her son’s new girlfriend. It is a tense series that makes you question one character one episode and another character the next. This was a taunt psychological drama I thoroughly enjoyed.
• “After the Hunt” I had such high hopes for this drama led by Julia Roberts, Andrew Garfield and Ayo Edebiri (of “The Bear” fame). Roberts plays a popular professor whose life becomes slowly unhinged as a student (Edebiri) accuses another professor of sexual misconduct. The film did not deliver a cohesive story that could hold my attention.
• “Tyler Perry’s Finding Joy” I am a big fan of Tyler Perry, but lately I’ve longed for a good Madea movie from him. (If you’ve never seen “Diary of a Mad Black Woman” or “I Can Do Bad All by Myself,” I recommend watching.) While this movie had a sweet message, it didn’t fully deliver.

Hulu

• “Love the Coopers” After enjoying a lovely lunch one day with Talley Carroll, she suggested I go straight home and watch this movie. She was absolutely right! This movie is from 2014 was produced by and stars Diane Keaton. The dog Rags, voiced by Steve Martin, narrates the story. It is jam packed with stars that include John Goodman, Ed Helms, Timothé Chalamet, Amanda Seyfried and Marisa Tomei. It is a story of forgiveness and redemption. Even though this is technically a Christmas movie, I highly recommend it any time of the year. 

Peacock

• “Stumble” This mockumentary-style show focuses on the world of competitive cheer. Kristin Chenowith stars, and I found myself laughing out loud.

HBO

• “Materialists” This film stars Dakota Johnson as a high-end matchmaker who begins to question her career choice. Also stars Chris Evans and Pedro Pascal. I enjoyed this movie and the questions it raises. 

Paramount+

• “Little Disasters” While I absolutely loved this series about a mother being accused of harming her baby, I realize this is darker material. It is also the story about adult friendships and how secrets in marriage and friendship ultimately destroy us. 
• In the theater this month, I was dying to see “The Housemaid” because I had loved the book and I adore Amanda Seyfried and Sydney Sweeney. What really made me happy was I convinced Ann Caldwell and Bronwyn McEwen to see the movie with me (again communal viewing is so great). Although not their genre, they both admitted they really enjoyed it! I think that’s a great endorsement. 
• For horror buffs, “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2” was big fun, and I got to see it with my youngest and her husband. 

The rest of this article is dedicated to my personal best of 2025.

FAVORITE MOVIES

• “Train Dreams” This is a moving tale of Robert Grainier, a logger and railroad worker in the early 20th century. I like slow, beautifully-shot movies, and this is one. It’s based on the very loved novella by Denis Johnson. I also learned so much about the history of building the railroads.
• “Wicked: For Good” Even if this movie does nothing else but get an Academy Award nomination for Jon M. Chu, I am still not over the slight of last year’s snub. I got to see the original cast of the Broadway production and have loved this story ever since. Cynthia Erivo’s “No Good Deed Goes Unpunished” brought the crowd, and I saw the movie amidst rapturous applause.
• “Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery” This movie focuses on Father Jud (Josh O’Connor) moving to a small town and joining Mons. Jefferson’s (Josh Brolin) dying church. Brolin plays an awful character, and questions of faith, death and relationships ensue. It’s packed with stars Glenn Close, Daniel Craig, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner and Kerry Washington.
• “Hamnet” This historical fiction about William Shakespeare details the loss of his son and the writing of “Hamlet.” It is a slower, beautiful movie that captures the grief of losing a child in a way that is visceral. (In theaters at the time of writing)
• “The Lost Bus” Based on the true story of an elementary school bus trapped in the 2018 Camp Fire in Paradise, Calif, this film details how heroic and selfless normal people can be. Matthew McConaughy as the bus driver and America Ferrera as the schoolteacher are fantastic.
• “Paddington in Peru” I almost feel like if you don’t love Paddington movies, you have no emotions. I obviously am joking, but this movie is simply the sweetest and has a lot to say about how we honor the elderly. Perfectly cast, it stars Hugh Bonneville, Emily Mortimer, Ben Whishaw and Imelda Staunton. Grab the family and enjoy this film.
• “Marty Supreme” I chose this movie for one reason: Timothé Chalamet’s performance. It was near perfection. The movie itself is tense and “adult” at times. I clenched my teeth so hard it hurt to chew afterwards! Chalamet must win the Oscar! (Julianna Robinson’s brother Andrew Youngerman is Chalamet’s stand-in in this film.)

FAVORITE DRAMA SERIES

• “The Pitt” This drama follows the lives of healthcare professionals in a Pittsburgh hospital as they juggle work and personal crises. Noah Wyle is perfection. (He won the Emmy Award.) Each episode focuses on one-hour in a long shift. This is an intense series, and I had to watch it early in the evening so I could sleep.
• “All Her Fault” This brilliant series is led by Sarah Snook (of “Succession” fame and Tony winner for “Dorian Gray”) and Dakota Fanning. Sarah goes to pick up her son from a playdate only to find he is not there. I have recommended this to so many people and advise all stay with the series because it’s actually about the secrets we hide and how they will implode and destroy families. 
• “The Beast in Me” I expect Claire Danes to be nominated for an Emmy Award, at the very least. Danes plays an author who, after winning a Nobel prize for literature, is struggling with writer's block while grieving the loss of her son. Then, a famous real estate mogul who was accused of murdering his first wife moves in next door with his new wife. The taunt game of cat-and-mouse  that ensues will keep you on the edge of your seat.
• “Stranger Things” I love when a series I love “sticks the landing.” The last episode that aired on New Year’s Eve was “epic and moving,” according to my daughter Anna. Such a great sci-fi series!

FAVORITE COMEDY SERIES

• “Shrinking” The Harrison Ford and Jason Segal series about psychiatrists is one of the most moving comedies I’ve seen, which makes sense as Brett Goldstein, best known as Roy on “Ted Lasso,” created “Shrinking” and “Ted Lasso.” The Thanksgiving episode in season 2 is one of the most poignant episodes of anything I watched all year.
• “Man on the Inside” Season two of this Ted Danson-led series may be even better than the first! Danson’s real life wife Mary Steenburgen costars, and it is adorable.
• “North of North” A podcast I heard recommended this sweet comedy about a small Arctic community, and it is a hidden gem. You can go on and thank me now!

FAVORITE DOCUMENTARIES

• “The Perfect Neighbor” A disagreeable neighbor escalates a minor incident into a lethal event. The story is told with police body cam footage and examines in depth Florida’s “stand your ground” laws.
• “Taylor Swift: The End of an Era” Even if you’re not a devout Swiftie (I am), this is a fascinating series that makes anyone appreciate the brilliance of Swift and the power of family support.
• “John Candy: I Like Me” This is a powerful look at a man who is not only a talented comedian but also a generous human being. It’s also a study in seeing problems/addictions in others but not being able to look in the mirror.
• “Unknown Number: The High School Catfish” Teens in a small town are haunted by an unknown caller. You will be shocked by the ending.

Movie Club will begin again in February! We are moving to Tuesday nights, the third Tuesday each month. On February 17, we will gather at Canopy at 5:30 p.m. to discuss “Midnight in Paris.” Hope you can be there! Until then, keep passing the popcorn …

I realize that the “Wicked” movie coming out on November 21 is technically a sequel, as are the majority of movies coming out these days. The exception is “Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere” starring one of my favorites Jeremy Allen White from “The Bear.” I liked this film that follows the rise of Bruce Springsteen. It had its critics, but I was entertained.

Two films worth noting that should be streaming by the time you’re reading this are “Truth & Treason,” a moving WWII true story, and “After the Hunt” starring Julia Roberts, a psychological drama about a college professor who must face her past when a star student levels accusations against a fellow teacher. 
Streaming was even different this month, with lots of documentaries, and disturbing series and movies, but thankfully there were some charmers in the mix!

NETFLIX

• “Woman in Cabin 10” Kiera Knightley stars as a travel writer who gets an assignment on a luxury yacht. When she witnesses a passenger tossed overboard but is told she imagined it, she realizes all is not as it seems. This was a great mystery movie, and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
• “Love is Blind” This reality series actually began as a sociological experiment and ended up on Netflix. The couples “date” in “pods,” and there is a divide that prevents them from seeing each other. So, is love blind? Some couples end up marrying at the end of the show! This is the one reality TV show I’m always invested in.
• “Steve” Steve (brilliantly portrayed by Oscar winner Cillian Murphy) is the head teacher at a reform college that is on the brink of closing due to budget cuts. The stories of the boys’ lives are heartbreaking. While an incredibly well-done film, it is hard to watch, especially if you teach or work in any form of social work.
• “My Father, the BTK Killer” This is the first time serial killer Dennis Rader’s daughter Kerri Rawson has spoken about her father, his double life, and her view of him as a father. I am a true-crime fan and found it fascinating to hear from the perspective of an innocent family member. If true crime is not your thing, you can pass on this one.
• “Victoria Beckham” I found this docuseries of former Spice Girl and wife to David Beckham fascinating. The thing that struck me is Victoria’s inability to be satisfied with success. She had to top each victory with a bigger one. If you like docuseries, this is a good one.
• “The Perfect Neighbor” This documentary is one of the most thought-provoking documentaries I’ve seen in a long time. It follows the story of Susan Lorincz, a Florida woman who calls the police repeatedly on neighborhood children. I highly recommend this documentary. The majority of the film is told from body cam footage. I learned a lot about “stand your ground” laws and what true anger can do to a human being.
• “North of North” This is one of the favorite things I watched all month! It’s a sweet comedy following Siaja, a young Inuk woman living in a tiny Artic town trying to find her own path. Do not be dismayed at the ending; season two is coming! Speaking of season two …
• “Nobody Wants This” My oldest daughter convinced me to watch the first season, and season two is just what you hope it will be! 
• “The Diplomat” Season three of this series maintains the pace and thrill of the first two seasons. This is a political thriller that hits all the right notes.

Apple TV

• “Trying” A friend recommended this British comedy to me as a feel good, laugh out loud, let-the-day-go show. Following a couple trying desperately to have a baby, it is all of the above.
• “The Morning Show” After three seasons of this Jennifer Aniston- and Reese Witherspoon-led drama, I lost interest.
• “The Lost Bus” This true story movie led by America Ferrera and Matthew McConaughey is excellent. I was on the edge of my seat! Matthew is a school bus driver who is tasked with transporting children and a teacher trapped in an unimaginable wildfire. So good!
• “Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lost” I don’t know when I have been so moved or felt so connected to a documentary. Ben Stiller’s tribute to his parents, highlighting both bad and good, is simply beautiful. Highly recommend!

HULU

• Hulu brought the very worst thing I watched, and also one of the best. The scary movie “Good Boy” was fine until the very disturbing last 10 minutes. I was lured in by a good cast, but ugh.
• The fifth season of “Only Murderers in the Building” was excellent.
• Hulu also brought “Murdaugh: Death in the Family,” a true crime miniseries that is the dramatization of Alex Murdaugh’s murder of his wife and son. Patricia Arquette and Jason Clarke turn in stellar performances that make this series truly compelling.

PEACOCK
Finally, Peacock offers the excellent rendition of John Grisham’s novel “The Rainmaker.” This was a great courtroom drama that made me stream quickly to the next episode!
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This month I love to stream both cheesy and well-done holiday movies!

So, until the new year, keep passing the popcorn …

This might be the least excited I have ever been about the Oscars ever. I am thankful “Wicked” won the Oscar for Best Costume (Paul Tazewell was the first Black man to win this Oscar) and Best Production Design, and I believe Adrian Brody was deserving for “The Brutalist.” I also think Kieran Culkin deserved to win for the excellent “A Real Pain,” and “Flow” is the sweetest film, so I’m happy it won for Best Animated Film. But the rest of the winners absolutely confound me. I can’t explain the “Añora” sweep. I just can’t. I love independent films, but this is not worthy of the number of Oscars it received, especially Best Picture. Oh well, maybe “Wicked Part II” will sweep next year. Fingers crossed!

In theaters, I saw two movies. “Paddington in Peru” was simply wonderful. It’s beautifully shot and makes you both smile and cry. I cannot recommend this film highly enough. It is the perfect “take the entire family” movie.

“Companion” is for you if you are a fan of the BBC series “Black Mirror.” It’s one of those AI-gone-terribly-wrong stories. I did enjoy it, but I love “Black Mirror.”

Thankfully, there was also exceptional streaming to be viewed! So, let’s talk about that …


Netflix
“Zero Day” Robert De Niro, Connie Britton (always Tammy Taylor of “Friday Night Lights” in my mind), Joan Allen, Jesse Plemmons (always Landry of “Friday Night Lights” and if you haven’t watched “Friday Night Lights,” why haven’t you?) all star in this sitting-on-the-edge-of-your-seat political thriller. The acting is obviously superb, and I flew through this series. This is my No. 1 streaming pick for this month.

“Love is Blind” What started as an actual psychological experiment has become my go-to “higher brow” reality show. Couples “date” without ever seeing each other. Several couples get engaged -sight unseen - and even married. This season is packed full of surprises. This would be a great rest-on-the-sofa binge.

“Apple Cider Vinegar” This is an incredibly well-done dramatization of the unbelievable story of Belle Gibson, a woman who lied about curing her own cancer to millions of her followers on Instagram and her blog. You will be shaking your head many times during this show. I thoroughly enjoyed this show. It’s so smart!

“American Murder: Gabby Petito” This docuseries just shook me! This was a preventable murder in my opinion, and the law enforcement officers dropped the ball at the most crucial time.


Hulu
“Paradise” I mentioned this series created by “Friday Night Lights” creator Dan Fogelman and starring Sterling K. Brown of “This Is Us” last month, and it just keeps getting better. It’s a political thriller with a huge twist.

“Scamanda” The true story of Amanda Riley, this woman faked cancer and took millions from fellow church members and people who found her blog. Your jaw will drop several times.

“A Real Pain” Written and directed by actor Jesse Eisenberg, this is a funny, poignant tale of two very different cousins who embark on a tour of Poland to honor their grandmother. Eisenberg stars alongside Kieran Culkin, a well-deserved Oscar nominee as is Eisenberg for best original screenplay. I both laughed and cried and highly recommend this film. 

“Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke” I have followed the child abuse case of former YouTube mom blogger Ruby Franke since this story broke. This docuseries was made with the cooperation of her adult children and her now ex-husband. Lots of behind-the-scenes footage is in this docuseries. I am a true crime geek, and this was mind boggling. It also made me so angry that a large number of calls to children’s services went ignored.


HBOMAX
“We Live in Time” The young uber talented Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield star in this story told in flashbacks about a couple in both current time and the future. Keep a Kleenex nearby!

“The White Lotus” (season 3) One of the most anticipated series in the past few months, we find ourselves in Thailand. I’m not sure this season can survive losing Jennifer Coolidge as a main character. I wish HBO would hire me as an editor; this series resorts to lazy writing (too much language and adult content). I do have friends that are crazy about this series, but I’m not sure I’ll stay with it. 


The real winners in the streaming world this month for me were Apple TV+ and Peacock. (I still think Peacock owes me a stipend as I constantly encourage people to add this service.)

AppleTV+
“Shrinking” I was late to this series, and like many superb series, it does “jump the shark” (lose its way) for a few episodes, but overall this series is simply the sweetest and most moving thing I’ve seen in quite a while. This shouldn’t have surprised me as the multi-talented Brett Goldstein (famous for his portrayal of Roy on “Ted Lasso”) is the creator; he was also one the creators of “Ted Lasso.” Starring Jason Segal and Harrison Ford, this series is priceless. It’s my second favorite streaming series this month, but it’s a very close to being No. 1. Just so you know, I have watched Ford’s Thanksgiving speech over 10 times.

I’m still watching “Silo” and “Severance” because when adult children want to share a viewing experience, I jump at it. I do enjoy both of these shows, although not nearly as much as I enjoy “Shrinking.”


Peacock
“Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy” This was my favorite streamed movie. Renee Zellweger, Hugh Grant and Chiwetel Ejiofor lead this sweet, moving fourth movie in the Bridget Jones story. I loved it. I even liked it better than the second Bridget Jones movie!

“Fall Guy” If you missed this terrific Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt romcom, you can now catch it on Peacock. It’s a romcom as well as an action movie, and it’s just perfection.

“Traitors” If you haven’t dug into this over-the-top Alan Cumming-led reality game of “Mafia” that my girls grew up playing, you are missing out! You can just start with season three. It is SO FUN!


Speaking of fun, join me April 17 at Canopy for movie club! We will be discussing “Mean Girls.” We socialize from 5:30-6 p.m. and discuss from 6-7 p.m. I have snacks and prizes, and drinks are available from Canopy. Please come!
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Until then, keep passing the popcorn!

This month I saw two movies. I chose them because I love true stories and I love scary stories, especially ones written by Stephen King, whose books I devoured in high school and college. “Last Breath” stars Woody Harrelson as a seasoned deep-sea diver who leads the battle to rescue a crew mate trapped hundreds of feet below the ocean’s service. It is incredibly tense, even if you know the ending! “The Monkey” is King’s tale of twin brothers cursed by a creepy toy monkey their father owned. Sadly, people close to the brothers meet deadly consequences when encountering the monkey. If you’re a fan of the King short story, you’ll find this fun; otherwise, you can sit this one out. It’s always interesting to me how creepy simple children’s toys can be in the right movie!
Streaming really hit it out of the park this month! A couple are so exceptional I’m mentioning them again this month. 

Peacock
Again, as almost every month, this is one of my top three streaming choices. If you don’t have it, “Wicked” is now available to stream on Peacock. I think it deserves to be seen on a big screen, but if you missed it in theaters, here’s your chance.
“Long Bright River” Based on the best-selling novel by Liz Moore, this exceptional series stars Amanda Seyfried as Philadelphia police officer Mickey Fitzpatrick. Mickey’s sister is a homeless addict who goes missing after a series of deaths of homeless sex workers. This gripping series is full of twists and turns and surprises I didn’t see coming, yet it is also full of forgiveness and acceptance. Despite its dark subject matter, this one does not leave you sad but hopeful. I absolutely flew through this series.
If you need a “guilty pleasure,” (AKA reality TV shows), my two favorites, “Southern Charm” based in Charleston and “Summer House” based in the Hamptons, are found on Peacock. Binging these got me through two foot-reconstruction surgeries.

Netflix
“Adolescence” This is the most talked-about series in months, in part because the entire series was shot in one take, meaning actors’ raw emotions were captured once, with no do overs! It is also the gut-wrenching story of a 13-year-old accused of killing another classmate. The story is told from the viewpoints of the parents, police officers, and the assigned therapist. Again, a deep subject but one of the most profound things I’ve streamed all year. It’s a BBC series and is produced by Brad Pitt. The young man who plays the teen has never acted. If you are a parent of a teen, please, please watch this. A friend also introduced me to the podcast “Ask Lisa” by Dr. Lisa Damour. If you don’t watch the series, at least listen to the podcast in your car. 
“Zero Day” I know I mentioned this last month but wanted to mention again because this series with Robert De Niro, Connie Britton (Tammy Taylor always), and Jesse Plemons is so good it deserves a second mention. What would happen if all the internet and power grids went down in the United States? What officials could be trusted? Do I have your attention yet?
“The Electric State” This one was hailed as the most expensive movie Netflix ever made, and I think it definitely shows! Starring favorites Millie Bobby Brown (“Stranger Things”) and Chris Pratt (“Parks & Rec”), this sweet movie follows the fallout of robots doing the majority of serving jobs in the world and the ensuing revolt. While this sounds very sci-fi heavy, it’s really a story of chosen family, risking your life for bigger causes and people you love. I watched this with my 33-year-old daughter and we loved it. It came as close to an in-theater experience in our family room as any movie I have ever seen on a streaming service.
Apple TV+
“Severance” is definitely the water cooler show of the year! I had tried several times to watch this show, but when my daughter and son-in-law from California were in town over Christmas, I decided to dive in with them. I enjoyed the first season much more than the second, and I’m still reeling from the season two finale. It is so thought-provoking. This show asks you to wrestle with deep questions, like doesn’t avoiding pain make us less human? Can we stuff feelings and survive? If my daughters were writing this review, they could share very profound thoughts and questions that (if I’m honest) went over my head! 
“Silo” I continue to enjoy this sci-fi show that has so many allegorical storylines to our culture today.
“La La Land” This has always been a favorite movie of mine, and when I rewatched it for Movie Club, I loved it more. I highly recommend renting this even if you’ve seen it before.

Hulu
​“Paradise” All episodes of this mind-blowing series are out, so start streaming now - like today! Sterling K. Brown of “This Is Us” is at the top of his game as a secret service agent to a former president who knows all is not as it seems when the president is murdered.
“Amber Alert” This edge-of-your-seat thriller follows an Uber driver and his last ride of the night as he realizes an Amber Alert vehicle is right in front of them. The Amber Alert system was established in 1996 after Amber Hagerman was abducted and killed at age 9 in Texas near her home. Her mother fought long and hard for this act. 
Movie Club will take a break until August 21. Please join us then! We are having the best time. Until next month, keep passing the popcorn …

A few months ago, my dear friend Mary Evans forwarded me an email about an eight-week online course being offered by one of our favorite critics, Brett McCracken. I nervously took the leap and signed up. Each week we study a genre of movies through a faith-based worldview. Brett is brilliant by himself, but he brings in other critics, composers, writers and his contacts in the entertainment industry. The first two weeks were spent on how to wisely critique movies. We were also introduced to our breakout groups. We have three classes left, but those first two weeks were filled with incredibly wise teaching, and I met new friends from Iowa, Illinois and Australia. Eighty people are accepted to this course, and 13 countries were represented. 

I could write an entire article about all I have learned, but I know if you regularly read this article (thank you!), you want your theater and streaming lists. The most important lesson Brett taught me was his acronym FOAMS. This is his method of choosing what media to invest his time in. 

F - Filmmaker Have you seen films made by this filmmaker before? What is her/his message in former works? O - Origin What is the original source material? A book? An earlier film? An original screenplay? A - Agenda Does the film have a goal or message that is the main goal of the film? Is it a message that does or does not offend you or one that makes you want to sit and ponder on after the movie is over? M - Market Who is the intended audience? Is it adults only? Kid friendly? A nice discussion starting point for teens? S - Style Is this filmmaker known for slow, artistic films? Is it shot in black and white? One of the films we were assigned to watch was Terrence Malick’s magnificent “A Hidden Life.” Malick is one of Brett’s favorite filmmakers, yet he makes very beautiful, yet slow, films. I know my husband and some friends would grow weary watching Malick’s films, so this is a great tip for me.

If following a critic interests you, I’d highly recommend Brett McCracken, Alyssa Wilkinson of The New York Times and Justin Chang of Variety and The L.A. Times. I also love the Roger Ebert website. A useful tool for parents is the website Plugged In, and if you have the IMDb app (if you don’t you should, it’s the database for all movies), it has a parent’s guide.

So now, back to our regularly scheduled reviewing!

In theaters this month I saw two very diverse movies. I saw the horror film “Smile 2.” Yes, it’s only for you if you like jump-scares and creepy characters. I was so thrilled to finally see a well-made, original horror film (even though it’s a sequel). The second “in-theater” film I saw was “Here.” This is the first time Tom Hanks and Robin Wright have reunited since “Forrest Gump.” Robert Zemeckis directed both of these films, and much has been made about the camera staying in one location this entire film. This movie had so much promise, but it got muddled down by trying to be too many things to too many causes: alcoholism and recovery; plight of Native Americans; impact of COVID on the Hispanic community; police brutality; decaying marriages; dementia; and the very founding of our country and the formation of the world. It is too much for one film to shoulder, and Hanks and Wright are not on screen the majority of the time. I was sadly disappointed.

I watched the tennis movie “Challengers” on an airplane, and it is a big no thank you! Save yourself the time and utter frustration.

So now to the streaming world!

NETFLIX
“The Woman of the Hour” First time director Anna Kendrick of “Pitch Perfect” fame weaves an unbelievably true story of Sheryl Bradshaw and her choice of Rodney Alcala on the ’70s “Dating Game” show. Turns out, Rodney Alcala was a psychopathic serial killer. If you are a true crime fan, you will love this movie.

“Daughters” I cannot recommend this documentary highly enough. This follows the story of four young girls as they prepare for a daddy-daughter dance with their incarcerated fathers as part of a nonprofit fatherhood program in a Washington, D.C., jail. One of the things I love about this documentary is it follows the girls and their fathers for several years after the dance. Watch this. Seriously, do not miss this.

“Love is Blind” This reality show, born out of a British psychology experiment, continues to entertain. This season was especially entertaining. Remember, this is reality TV, not high-brow entertainment.

“Don’t Move” If you like the troupe “woman fights would-be attacker with smarts” you will not be disappointed in this movie. It stars Kelsey Asbille of “Yellowstone” fame as a grieving mom who finds herself stalked in the woods by Finn Wittrock of “Unbroken” and “American Horror Story.” It’s a very specific genre but if you like these revenge type films, you will enjoy this.

AMAZON PRIME
“Godland” I would not have watched this film if I had not signed up for the online film cohort. This is the story of a Danish priest who sets out to start a church in Iceland at the end of the 19th century. The deeper he goes into Iceland, the more selfish and undone he becomes. It is a very powerful movie, but note it might be a bit slow if you need a lot of action.

“A Hidden Life” As I mentioned earlier, this was another film cohort assignment, and I cannot recommend this movie strongly enough. It is the true story of unsung hero Austrian farmer Franz Jagerstatter who refuses to fight for the Nazis in World War II. It’s a reminder of how many untold stories there are from that darkest moment in history. It’s also the question of how far would you go to do what is right? Would you even give your life? At many turns, I found myself just shouting at my TV, “Just sign the paper and go home to your wife and girls!” Pop some popcorn and settle in and watch this movie.

APPLE TV
I was anxiously awaiting Apple’s Cate Blanchett-led “Disclaimer” and the Billy Crystal-led “Before,” but I can’t recommend either. “Disclaimer” is too sexualized. If I have to fast forward for almost half an episode, I’m out. “Before” is just not packing the punch I thought a creepy show by Apple with Billy Crystal and Judith Light would deliver.

HBOMAX
“Salem’s Lot” This is based on one of the scariest Stephen King novels I ever read! Growing up, my parents were so thrilled I was a reader that I was allowed to devour King along with Judith Krantz, Judy Blume, John Irving, V.C. Andrews, and many other non-age-appropriate authors. This third remake of the King classic did not disappoint and was released just in time for Halloween.

“Dune 2” This one was another film cohort assignment, but I did not love it. Two of my sons-in-law do love these Dune movies, but it’s just not my favorite genre, and I didn’t get the underlying message.

“Somebody, Somewhere” Another of my favorite movie-loving friends, Marty Robinson, recommended this to me, and I am loving it. It’s quirky, original and poignant. The language is adult and inappropriate at times, but the message is profound.

HULU
“Only Murders in the Building” This season is rumored to be the final season. This season starts rather slowly but, boy, it ends with a bang. So many A-List cameos and so sweet!

PARAMOUNT PLUS
“Elsbeth” This was my favorite scripted network television new show last year. It follows the quirky Elsbeth Tascioni from “The Good Wife” series as she moves to NYC to help the police solve cases. My husband, John, and I both enjoy this series.
“Matlock” Oscar winning Kathy Bates stars as a grandmother who becomes a lawyer with a mission she is hiding from her associates. I adore both the grandmother/grandson relationship and her mission.

PEACOCK
I’ve plugged this streaming service multiple times because of the live TV option (NBC-Paramount offers the live CBS option as well) and it’s the home of my beloved “Law & Order: SVU” and “Law & Order.” The two new offerings, “Found” and “The Irrational,” are excellent, but the original series “Teacup” is disappointing, even for someone who loves creepy shows.

The movies for Thanksgiving and Christmas look so promising, so come back next month! Also, Reel Talk Movie Club will return in January so follow my Instagram @merriles. You can direct message me there with questions. Until then, keep passing the popcorn …

Last summer we were in the thick of “Barbie” vs. “Oppenheimer.” While there hasn’t been that big of a moment, there have been big hits like “Inside Out 2” (my personal favorite), “Twisters,” “Deadpool & Wolverine,” and the breakout horror hit “Longlegs.”

I chose not to see “Deadpool & Wolverine” because I walked out of “Deadpool” due to the language, which is not typically my “line in the sand.” I had no desire to see this one, even though I love Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman. 

As I said above, I loved “Inside Out 2.” My husband, John Stroud, and I actually saw it together. Another movie we saw together and loved was an inspirational true story, “The Sound of Hope - The Story of Possum Trot.” This is the true story of Donna and Rev. WC Martin in East Texas who adopted 77 children from the local foster system, starting a movement for vulnerable children everywhere. 

“Twisters” is your perfect summer blockbuster. There is one four letter word and no sexual content. Glen Powell, the breakout star of “Maverick: Top Gun,” is perfect in the leading man role, supported well by Daisy Edgar-Jones. How refreshing to have a family friendly blockbuster!

I am so excited to report M. Night Shyamalan is back! He wrote and directed “Trap,” an incredibly smart thriller starring Josh Hartnett. This is not a horror movie; this thriller is a roller coaster ride about a man who is both a serial killer and a family man. This film even features his daughter in a lead role. I recommend it highly!

Before I get to streaming recommendations and the Emmy nominations, I’d love you to invite you all to the very first movie club that Henri Lowe and I will be hosting September 19 at Canopy. We will discuss one of my favorite movies of all time, “Lars and the Real Girl,” starring Ryan Gosling. This movie is about what true love in a community looks like. Please know the movie will not take a dark, sexual turn. We will provide popcorn and movie snacks, with drinks available from Canopy, at 5:30 pm. Discussion and clips begin at 6 p.m. Each month we will discuss different movie. I so hope you will join us! I think it will be a fun way to engage and meet fellow movie lovers.

The Emmy nominations were surprising in the fact that “Shogun” on Hulu garnered 25 nominations for outstanding drama series and “The Bear” (also on Hulu) earned 23 nominations, the most ever earned for a comedy series. My son-in-law loved “Shogun,” and I have just started it. “The Bear” has found a special place in my heart and is probably in my top five shows ever. The language is incredibly R rated, but the exploration of family secrets that can destroy us and the family we chose outweighs the language in my opinion. The episode that won all the nominations is season two’s “Fishes.” This episode took me back to dinners in my own home, and season three’s “Ice Chips” undid me, as it truly felt autobiographical. I love this show. I will say I’ve had several friends who found the language too much, so that’s worth noting. I would not call “The Bear” a comedy, but if it is getting recognition like this, I’m fine with that.
So, now to streaming recommendations!


Netflix
This month Netflix finally reminded me why it is the most popular streaming service.

• “The Cloverhitch Killer” I let my husband choose this movie, and neither of us liked this serial killer movie starring Dylan McDermott as a family man and Scout leader leading an awfully upsetting double life.
• “The Stranger” This series is based on Harlan Coban’s novel of the same name, and it is gripping! It’s about secrets and lies of suburban families becoming public when a stranger appears in their town.
• “America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders” So many friends recommended this, and I would silently roll my eyes. Someone finally reminded me how much I loved the Netflix series “Cheer,” so I watched. I am so glad I did! I thoroughly enjoyed this exploration of young ladies following dreams and the families that support them.
• “Ripley” This is a slow burn so know you will most likely not be sold on it at the end of the first episode. Based on the 1999 film “The Talented Mr. Ripley” starring Matt Damon and Gwyneth Paltrow, this is a black and white, “film noir” type exploration of a pathological liar who goes to great lengths to take on the life of people he covets. This series, shot entirely in Italy, also received several nominations.
• “Find Me Falling” It’s summer; it’s Harry Connick Jr.; it’s Greece; and you need a romantic comedy. I found this so endearing. There is an element of suicide in the very beginning, so please be aware. 
• “The Neon Highway” Starring Beau Bridges as a singer on the cusp of fame until he is in a car wreck, a washed-up country music singer comes into his life. What ensues is a sweet, moving story. Please, Netflix, make more of these!
• “The Dark Side of Comedy” This docuseries follows famous comedians who sadly died too soon. I found it fascinating, but obviously it’s not a “feel good” series. 
• “Identity Thief” Starring Melissa McCarthy and Jason Bateman, this film would get such a high rating if only I could edit the language. As previously mentioned, this is not my line in the sand for movies, but the sweetest story is muddied by such heavy-handed language. 
• My big NO on Netflix is “Fair Play.” Do not waste your time!

Amazon Prime Video

• “The Beekeeper” Although it is violent, I enjoyed this Jason Statham action movie. When his kind-hearted landlady commits suicide after a phishing scam takes all her money, Statham sets out to take down the bad guys.
• “Thelma” This gem of a movie was not in theaters long enough for me see it on the big screen, but I was so thrilled when one of my besties told me it was on Prime to rent! Led by 94-year-old June Squibb, this is the endearing true story of 93-year-old Thelma Post who set out to get her money back from a phone scammer pretending to be her grandson. I loved this movie! 
• “Civil War” I would not recommend this one as we are in an election season. It’s about civil war breaking out in modern day America. I found it triggering.

Apple TV

• “Presumed Innocent” Based on the famous Scott Turow novel and the 1990 Harrison Ford film, this Jake Gyllenhaal-led murder mystery makes for “can’t stop watching” viewing. The ending is different from the novel and the movie. I did not love the ending, but I thoroughly enjoyed the ride.
  

Please join Henri and me on September 19 at 5:30 at Canopy for the inaugural movie club. We will definitely be passing the popcorn!

I struggle to write this article because I have so many feelings going on. First, please read my movie BFF Henri Lowe’s article about the Chattanooga Film Festival. Next year we want to take a group with us to it. It was that well done! I’m thankful Henri captured the festival so well because I gotta deal with all the emotions over here!

The two things that completely stopped me in my tracks were as diverse as they could be, but equally tore at my heartstrings. “Inside Out 2” was literally everything. If you, like me, have ever struggled with anxiety, codependency or fear, you rarely find apt descriptions in film of those gut-wrenching emotions. Watching “Inside Out 2,” I could finally look at my husband and say, “That’s me! That’s how it feels!”

The other representative of my internal dialog and hard work in therapy is the third season of Hulu’s hit “The Bear.” It’s hard for me to not use this entire article to discuss “The Bear.” I want to warn that this show has R rated language. I so wish it was PG language so parents could view with kids. This shows keeps getting better each season. The main character Carmine (AKA Carmy, Chef, Bear) returns home in the first season to save his family’s sandwich shop after his brother’s death. Carmy is a celebrated chef in New York and has to sacrifice it all to return to Chicago to save this shop. I would say the first season focuses on chosen family and the power of those people. I have no nuclear family and my chosen family is my lifeline.

The second season of “The Bear” is about the secrets we carry to protect our nuclear families and how damaged that makes us. Episode six, “Fishes,” was a gut punch to me. I’ve been at that table.

Season three’s eighth episode, “Ice Chips,” shows almost the exact conversation I had to have with my mother. That episode, along with “Inside Out 2,” so perfectly captures so many important moments, conversations and feelings that viewing it was like a therapist putting her arm around my shoulders saying, “Great job, kiddo.”

Suffice to say, if you have not binged “The Bear” on Hulu, I cannot recommend it highly enough. It may take several episodes to be hooked, and, yes, the kitchen scenes are intense, but the power of the message is too profound to miss. An Al-Anon saying, “What other people think of you is none of your business,” coupled with the finale of the third season, left me in tears because it accurately portrays what happens when we make that our business.

I’m just blown away by the talent of people making such powerful depictions of these heavy emotions and capturing them so perfectly. I had the luxury of being at our favorite place, Lakeview Fontana, complete with treetop cabana soaks and views of Fontana Lake, to binge the latest season, but it’s a must-watch no matter where you are.

Now, onto other viewing options. I went down a deep dive of true crime this month, so I apologize if that’s not your thing, but there are some excellent options in this genre.


Netflix

• “Your Honor” Bryan Cranston shines as a widowed judge in New Orleans who grapples with how far a parent will go to protect a child from consequences of accidental actions. I’m so glad this finally made the move from Showtime to Netflix so more people can view this excellent series. My husband and I loved it but be warned - it is VERY intense.
• “Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult” This docuseries is insane! Mention cult and I’m all in because I find it fascinating how people end up in them. This one is especially crazy because TikTok dancers join a management firm that ends up being tied to a church that has a sinister agenda. It’s a short series and I plowed through it.
• “Cold Copy” This movie follows an ambitious journalism student who falls under the spell of an esteemed - yet not particularly ethical - reporter she wants to impress so badly she’s willing to manipulate the truth.
• “Under Paris” It’s summer, sharks terrify me and the Olympics are in Paris, so this was a perfect Friday night thriller for me. Yes, it’s campy but oh-so-fun.
• “A Family Affair” One of my daughters recommended this Zack Efron/Nicole Kidman rom-com. I reported last month that the Anne Hathaway led “The Thought of You” was delightful (minus adult content) because the mom sacrificed for her 16-year-old daughter. This time, this daughter is 24, and I found it a bit uncomfortable that the mom felt “done” with parenting and did what she wanted. Granted, the daughter is an adult. It’s sweet and predictable, but I liked “The Thought of You” on Prime better.
• “Ashley Madison: Sex, Lies and Scandal” I found this docuseries so compelling as it deals with corporate greed and the fallout on families. I also loved the diversity of the couples they chose that had been affected by the leaks at Ashley Madison. Very well done and so gripping!

Hulu

• “The Bear” As of right now, this is my favorite show of 2024. If Hulu does nothing else of great note this year, it has my heart because of this series. Start lining up the Emmy Awards!
• “Brats” I was in high school from 1980-1983 and college (War Eagle!) from 1983-1987. John Hughes movies were my life because they captured my life and feelings in ways I didn’t know were possible. Andrew McCarthy was in all these movies. He made a documentary on the fallout of the article that dubbed their acting group as “The Brat Pack.” This documentary is thoughtful, meaningful, powerful and filled all my ’80s buckets to the brim. I cannot recommend it highly enough, especially if you are around my age.
• “Cult Massacre: One Day in Jonestown” As I said earlier, say cult and I am in. This is a fascinating look at what happened in Jonestown by Jim Jones’ own son and others who escaped. It is only three episodes and, yes, I watched them all in one sitting. If you love cult documentaries as much as I do, you will love this. There is an incredible amount of unseen footage, and it is riveting.
• “The Free Fall” This is one of the best psychological thrillers I’ve seen in recent history. A young woman awakens with amnesia and must figure out if her husband is telling the truth.

Paramount

• “Bull” and “Elsbeth” are both exceptional shows. “Elsbeth” only has one season, but “Bull” offers multiple seasons.
• There is a movie coming out soon with a stellar cast called “Speak No Evil.” It is based on a foreign film of the same title. I watched it with my oldest daughter, and it is beyond disturbing. Please skip it.

HBOMAX

• “Six Schizophrenic Brothers” If this was not a true story, you would not believe it. If you have an interest in psychology or genetics, you will love this well-done short docuseries.
• “Fallen Idols” This docuseries deals with the sad demise of Nick and Aaron Carter and the role their parents played in using them for money and brushing things under the rug. 

​
Beginning in September, my movie BFF Henri Lowe and I will be hosting a movie club at Canopy once a month. I will have the exact date for you next month. The first movie we will discuss is “Lars and the Real Girl” starring Ryan Gosling. We will have clips to see and questions to discuss. We will all have a beverage and have a great time. It is strongly recommended you watch the film before attending. Please note that you might think this movie is going down a sexually deviant path but I PROMISE it is not. It is a story of a community showing up with love and one of my all-time favorite films, and we will definitely be passing the popcorn!

The beginning of the year signals to Hollywood that winners are coming! (If you are a “Game of Thrones” fan, please catch the pun.) Big budget blockbusters along with quieter, more artistic films line the big and small screens alike. Now that it is not uncommon for streaming services to release awards contenders but also winners, many of the year’s best films are on the small screen. Case in point: Netflix’s “Maestro,” beautifully directed by Bradley Cooper, who also stars as Leonard Bernstein. It is shot in black and white, and it makes it feel like a film of years gone by, Hollywood’s golden era. It was one of my favorite films of the year.
​
Following our tradition of a movie on Christmas Day, we set out in the fog and cold to see “The Boys in the Boat.” George Clooney so fantastically brings the true story of an unlikely college rowing team at the University of Washington making its way to the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. It is expertly adapted from the novel by Daniel James Brown. See this movie. See it as a family. This is one of those rare, nearly-perfect stories.

Next up in my theater reviews is “The Color Purple.” I love the original movie. This is not it. I love, love the Broadway musical. This isn’t it. Yes, it is a musical but only two original Broadway tunes are in this “reimagination” of the Alice Walker novel. Steven Spielberg was wrongly criticized, in my opinion, of not adapting some of the more sexually explicit parts of the novel to the movie. This movie goes farther, but not to an explicit level. I ended up liking this movie more than I expected, especially Mister’s backstory. At the end of the day, the message of “The Color Purple” is one of forgiveness and seeking restoration in broken relationships, and that is a message I am all about.

I wanted to like “Ferrari.” I really tried to. The problems were just too many. Penelope Cruz is the only actor who can maintain a believable Italian accent. I think Adam Driver is an incredibly gifted actor, but his acting feels if he is trying way too hard. Shailene Woodley and Patrick Dempsey are just wildly miscast. At one point I even fell asleep, and that rarely happens to me.

I think this is a good time to mention a thought-provoking YouTube video my youngest daughter sent me about how YouTube and streaming have ruined our brains. It was an attention-grabbing headline. As I watched I realized how much I agreed. The main premise is that corporate viewing adds healthy brain activity because we’re focused, and we’re sharing an experience we discuss during and after. With streaming, we often consume alone. And when we stream, we often look at our phones or are doing other things. That’s why I love the Nicole Kidman commercial that airs before every movie at AMC theaters. Stories need to be shared. Stories need to be experienced together. I do love streaming, but I love being in a dark theater with friends and family more. With that being said, let’s move on to streaming. 


Peacock
I’m starting with Peacock because I really think this is the one service you should consider because of the wealth of content. And my other favorite movie of the year, “The Holdovers,” is available on Peacock. This tender-hearted movie is about boys at a Northeastern boarding school who, for one reason or another, are left behind over Christmas break. Paul Giamatti is exceptional as the teacher left in charge of the “holdovers.” I loved-loved-loved this movie. It is poignant and breathtakingly beautiful. 

• “Dr. Death: Season 2” I listened to this podcast and couldn’t wait for the dramatization. Mandy Moore stars as investigative journalist Benita Alexander, who is investigating surgeon Paolo Macchiarini, known as The Miracle Man. These stories always shock me at how such intelligent women fall prey to these con men. (There is the documentary version on Netflix called “Bad Surgeon” that is also very good.) I’m continuing to enjoy “Found” and “Southern Charm” (reality TV at its best/worst).

Max

• “Barbie” If you missed the phenomenon in theaters, you can now stream it on Max. I loved it. Even saw it twice in the theaters.
• “sMothered” this is seriously the most “what the ???” reality show I’ve ever watched. It is about seriously overly-involved mothers and their daughters.

Apple TV+

• “The Family Plan” This Mark Wahlberg led comedy about a dad with a secret former life as a secret agent is funny and plain sweet. 

Hulu

• “Murder at the End of the World” Starring Clive Owen as the wickedly secretive billionaire, this murder mystery at the Icelandic home of a billionaire is gripping!
• “Black Cake” Just trust me and watch this series following a young girl’s escape from a life without possibilities in Jamaica.

Netflix

• “American Symphony” I thought this would be mainly a documentary about the talented musical artist Jon Baptiste, but it’s more about his partner’s cancer returning. Incredibly moving, have tissues nearby.
• “The Crown” Raised by an Anglophile, I’ve been one since birth, and this season may be my favorite. I was crying at the last scene. If you’ve missed this excellent show, go back and watch it from the beginning!
• “Leave the World Behind” This Julia Roberts and Mahershala Ali is a must see. It will keep you guessing until the end. Watch with someone because you will want a buddy to discuss the ending.

The Oscars are March 10, so I’ll keep you updated until the big night. Until then, pass the popcorn!

Last month I covered the movie phenomena known as “Barbinheimer.” Sadly, as good as “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” are, nothing of note came out, in my opinion. The only new movie I saw was “Talk to Me,” which only horror fans would appreciate. I saw the amazing “Sound of Freedom” again and also saw “Barbie” again. I would have seen “Oppenheimer” again if it were not three hours long.

I’m looking forward to seeing the thriller “The Good Mother” starring Hillary Swank. It’s the story of a mother losing a son to a drug-related death. Many of you know I lost my brother in the exact same way in April, and I went down a rabbit hole of OxyContin stories, but I’m excited to see this on the big screen. To my horror-loving fans, I’m super excited about “Don’t Look Away,” which has an0 “It Follows” feel, and I loved that movie. And finally, I’m can’t wait to see “My Big Fat Greek Wedding III.” I really love this franchise.

So now to the streaming world …

Max (formerly known as HBO)

• “Every Secret Thing” I don’t know how I missed this movie when it was released in 2017, but it is an excellent “did they/didn’t they” thriller until literally the last minute - I never figured it out! Diane Lane and Elizabeth Banks are perfectly cast as mother and detective.

Apple

• “The Morning Show” I rewatched the last two episodes of the last season to prepare for the new season dropping September 12. This is a hard show as it’s the story of the Matt Lauer fallout at NBC; of course, all names are changed. This may be triggering to survivors of sexual abuse so please proceed with caution.
• “Ted Lasso” This one called for another rewatch because in September I was in the actual Richmond in England. Yes, I sat at the pub and the famous red bench. I wish I could edit the language in this show, but I still say the last two episodes are two of the best hours of television ever.

Netflix
A little side note about Netflix and the password crackdown, which Netflix claims was a huge financial success. Many of the people “in the industry” that I follow say it was not a huge success. Who knows?

• “Painkiller” This incredible series is led by Peter Berg, one of my favorites because he is the man who gave us “Friday Night Lights.” Also Taylor Kitsch (forever Tim Riggins in my heart) stars. Taylor actually lived this OxyContin nightmare with his sister. He took her in and monitored her sobriety for seven years, so he was passionate about this project. Based on the New York Times story that sounded the alarm 10 years before the rest of the world heard of the drug, this is not only a well done series, but it is important. I’d even recommend older teens watching with parents. My brother started smoking pot at 15. By 18, he was on cocaine. He was smart and had potential. At 50, he was found dead in a hotel room with OxyContin, heroin, fentanyl and meth in his system. No drug is recreational. In my mind, that is simply a fact.
• “The Pharmacist” Continuing my OxyContin rabbit hole, this docuseries follows a pharmacist who lost his son to an OxyContin deal-gone-wrong in New Orleans. He then started researching OxyContin and “pain clinic” doctors. It’s raw and personal. I loved it.
• “Umma” If you like creepy movies and Sandra Oh, this is for you. Sandra is an adult haunted by her mother’s abuse to the point she is raising her own daughter totally off the grid. It does get scary towards the end.

Hulu

• “Dopesick” Based on the book by the same name, this one also required a rewatch from me.
• “Only Murderers in the Building” I’ve yet to see this myself but all my peeps who are watching it are loving it.

Amazon Prime

• “Champions” If you missed this Woody Harrelson-led comedy about a basketball team of Down syndrome young adults, you can stream it now. It is so sweet but again, watch out for foul language.
• “Shelter” This series based on the book by Harlan Coben is so good. It’s a series John and I can watch together.

Paramount Plus

• “Special Ops: Lioness” This series created by “Yellowstone” creator Taylor Sheridan stars Zoe Saldana and Nicole Kidman. If you like FBI/CIA type shows, this is a good one for you.

Next month, I’ll have up close and personal “Ted Lasso” information and will have followed the Easy Company’s trail from the phenomenal HBO series “Band of Brothers.” Until then, pass the popcorn……

Here’s a fun trivia fact - the term “summer blockbuster” didn’t exist until the release of “Jaws” in 1975. Since that year, movie enthusiasts have anxiously awaited summer movie releases. COVID-19 certainly has had an impact on this tradition, but that’s not to say there are not movies to be excited about this summer. So this month, I’m starting with the movies that I believe deserve your time and money in the theaters.

“The Little Mermaid” My husband loved the original and was excited to see this one as it reminds him of our No. 2 daughter, Sally. While Ursula would definitely be scary for young children, I think 9- or 10-year-olds and older will enjoy this movie. We thoroughly enjoyed singing along with our oldest daughter, who happens to be 31 and remembers the original fondly.

“Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 3” This is truly one of the best movies I’ve seen in a while. This movie is basically a story of self-sacrifice and loving a “chosen” family. I laughed and cried throughout this film. You can see this without seeing the first two, but I would recommend reading a summary.

“Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” Forget that awful “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull” debacle. This is like the energy and writing of the earliest Indian Jones. Phoebe Walker-Bridge is excellent as Harrison Ford’s goddaughter, and characters you love from previous films make appearances. Side note: My adult children who had never seen the original were bored, so if you haven’t seen the original, take time to stream it.

The movie you can skip is “Android City.” I really love some of director’s Wes Anderson’s films, especially “Moonrise Kingdom,” but this is a pretentious, no-story mess.

I CANNOT wait for “Barbie.” This movie is directed by Greta Gerwig, whose version of “Little Women” is the best. I grew up with every Barbie accessory and could play Barbies for hours with my friends. I’ll update you next month!

There are several recent theatrical releases now available to stream. Max has “Evil Dead Rise” (skip!); Peacock has “Polite Society” (charming) and “Book Club - The Next Chapter” (if you liked the first one you will enjoy this one); and Prime has “Jesus Revolution” that I reviewed a few months ago. It’s a film worth watching.

Streaming Services this Month

Netflix

• “Black Mirror” I’ve had to wait FOUR years for more episodes. This series gets its name from a turned-off phone or tablet - it becomes a “black mirror.” Charlie Brooker is the English creator and you should google his interview on CBS Saturday Morning. This show is about technology gone amuck. Some episodes are creepy, some are scary and some are downright mind-blowing! This is not for everyone, but I love it so much.
• “Take Care of Maya” This documentary really hit home for me as I have a friend being accused of Munchausen by proxy. This documentary made me want to go into legal defense work.
• “Missing” This theatrically released movie is thrilling. A mother goes missing and her daughter uses technology and a friend to track her down. A fun Friday night view!
• “Break-Point” This sports docuseries focuses on up and coming tennis players during four Grand Slam tournaments. This is so well done you don’t even need to love tennis to enjoy this series.
• “Red Rose” This series reminded me of “Black Mirror” so I loved it. It’s about an app some high school seniors download, and all kinds of trouble begins. Again, technology run amuck is scary and timely!

Hulu

• “The Split” This is a great summer binge. I recommended this fabulous BBC series when it first came out. It was a show we could watch as a couple, which is hard to find for us!

John and I are currently still streaming “Brothers and Sisters” and “Blue Bloods” (John’s fav).

Prime Video

• “Shiny Happy People: Duggar Family Secrets” Honestly, this was the most horrifying docuseries I’ve watched. This is the story of not only Michelle and Jim Bob Duggar but also Bill Gothard, famous for his Institute in Basic Life Principles. This four-part series exposes what the Duggar’s knew about their son committing sexual abuse on his own sisters, what Bill Gothard was actually teaching and how The Learning Channel encouraged the cover-up. I could not stop thinking about this series. If you watch it, please message me on Instagram @merriles. A warning: If you or someone you love has been sexually abused, especially in church, this may be very triggering. Along this same vein, listen to the podcast “Scamanda.” It’s a true story of Amanda C. Reilly who scammed her church and people nationwide by faking cancer.
• “Jack Ryan” The final season of this action packed series goes out with a bang. John Krasinski is almost perfect in the lead role.
• “The Summer I Turned Pretty” (season two)

I loved the first season and I cannot wait for season two.

Max (formerly HBOMax)

• “The Curios Case of Natalia Grace” This is a crazy documentary about an adult who poses as a child and is adopted by an American couple.
• Another adult recommendation you can binge this summer is “Succession.” I know I raved about it last month, and it’s still just as fantastic. Again, adults only.

Apple TV

• “Hijack”  The fabulous Idris Elba stars in this gripping drama about a hijacked plane. It’s an “are they bad or are they good” rollercoaster ride.
• “Ted Lasso” I have several friends who have not watched this series due to adult language and themes. I can appreciate this, yet every single character illustrates a story of redemption and the power of forgiveness. It will forever be my favorite comedy.
• “Silo” My oldest daughter and I are obsessed with this science fiction series. Even if you think you hate science fiction, you should give this a try.

When I write to you next month, I will have seen “Barbie!” Until then pass the popcorn …