Brooke Nevin and Corey Sevier star in a cute movie from Great American Family. Meet Me in New York brings these two together in a story that has their characters both questioning their jobs and their relationship.
Joe (Sevier) is a big shot website editor who is about to move to Dubai. Kelly (Nevin) is a big city events planner who is about to be promoted. Their initial accidental meeting at a coffee shop is strained, with them not hitting it off, to put it bluntly. But when he shows up in her office a few minutes later, her annoyance with him causes a lot of strain, to the chagrin of her boss.
Kelly is unaware of Joe’s status, thinking he is simply a rude, self-centered guy. And Joe thinks she is a bit gruff and also quite rude. She sends him away, with her pride and displeasure for him stopping her from taking the job.
After a conversation with her boss (Maria Syrgiannis), who informs her that working with Joe would be a coup not only for her resume but also for the company, Kelly tracks him down to pursue the opportunity further.
She is hired (was there any doubt?) and begins brainstorming ideas for a 10th birthday blowout. With these two professional – with very different ideas and temperaments – the process of creating a big birthday bash is not as easy as either of them initially planned.
Molly Lewis plays almost-ten-year-old Willow. This little girl loves her uncle, with ice cream coming in a close second. Will she get a great birthday party or will things go awry?
Meet Me in New York is streaming on Great American Pure Flix and begins airing on Great American Family and GFAM+ beginning February 7, 2026.
About the Author
Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites and is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.
Kim Matula and Aaron O’Connell star in this adorable movie from Hallmark. The Way to You focuses on two single New Yorkers who are each looking to find their true love.
Emma (Matula) always seems to attract men who are not good for her. She really wants to connect with someone who is responsible, fun, and caring. Conrad is also looking for a special someone, and he feels deep in his heart that when he finds her it will be love at first sight.
Emma’s sister advises her to get up early and ride the subway in the financial section of the city, instead of going directly to her art gallery. She might find a man who is employed, responsible, and attractive. And in the financial district, there are more chances of running into the kind of man she wants.
It just happens that Conrad (O’Connell), who does work in finance, is on the same train. Interestingly, there is a brief black out while they are both riding the train, and are both engaged in conversation – with other people. After the train gets going then stops and lets the riders out, both Conrad and Emma are left alone.
Conrad, being the “love at first sight” kind of guy, decides to put an ad in the local paper looking for the “cute brunette” who spoke to him about books while they were in the blackout.
Well, coincidentally, Emma reads the ad and thinks it is from the nice gentlemen she was talking with during the blackout. Emma agrees to meet this man but when they do meet, they both realize they are meeting strangers. Strike out.
While discussing their dilemma, Emma agrees to help Conrad look for this mysterious woman. As their friendship grows, they realize they make a great team, but what will happen when/if Conrad actually does find this “girl of his dreams?” Will she be “the one?”
Conrad sets Emma up with a colleague, which turns out to be a good date for her. But even though he checks all the boxes she asked for, there is something missing. He’s a great guy. He’s just not Conrad.
The story is a little like When Harry Met Sally, where they help each other through the ups and downs of relationships, but realize there is more to their friendship and they belong together.
This cute film premieres February 7, 2026 on Hallmark Channel and will be available to stream on Hallmark+ beginning February 8, 2026. The Way to You is really a fun story.
About the Author
Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites and is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.
Buffalo Kids is a fun and heartening animated story filled with sweet characters and a memorable theme. Set in the 19th century, it is the story of two orphans from Ireland who come to America to live with their uncle, but things don’t exactly go according to plan.
When Mary and Tom reach New York City, having traveled from Ireland on a ship, they are supposed to be met by their uncle Niall, however he is a no-show. So these two siblings decide to travel to California where Niall lives.
Without enough money for the train, they sneak aboard with a group of other orphans who are traveling to meet their new families. Eleanor, the head of the group, discovers the siblings and vows to keep them safe and see them to their uncle.
America is filled with wonder for Mary and Tom. She is an optimistic and energetic little girl, and he is a smart little boy who knows he must look after his little sister, and the dog she found on the dock. Little Sparky could be a hindrance but Mary knows he is worth keeping.
The group of orphans includes a paraplegic little boy named Nick. Nick is hopeful he will be adopted, however when his prospective parents meet him, they decide he would be too much trouble, so Nick returns to the group downhearted and dejected. But Mary manages to cheer him up. She knows there is a family out there for him, and her effervescence rubs off on little Nick, who has lived his entire life in a wheelchair.
When the train stops to refuel, Mary talks Tom into getting off to pet the buffalos that are roaming the land. They take Nick and Sparky with them. Unfortunately, the train departs without them and they must find a way to reunite with the others.
The threesome, along with Sparky, encounter some dangerous as well as some fortunate situations as they travel across America. First they are taken in by a group of Cheyennes who care for them and keep them safewhile Tom’s leg heals. Did I forget to mention he was bitten by a coyote?
After their good experience with the Cheyenne, Tom, Mary, Nick, and Sparky then encounter the bandits who had attacked the train and taken the passengers as slaves in their mine. It is there where everyone is reunited.
Throughout all this time, Mary remains optimistic that things will turn out for them all. She is a great character that audiences will take to their hearts, along with Tom and especially Nick. Nick’s courage is unbeatable. And, as they are told, they may be little but their hearts are as big as buffalos.
While there are plenty of dangerous situations throughout the film, the theme is courage, helpfulness, camaraderie, friendship, and love as the three little kids (along with Sparky) use their intellect to save the others. And in the end, they find their forever family and a loving home.
This is a good story that is filled with, yes, heart, and characters that audiences will enjoy watching as they take on whatever comes their way, with confidence and caring hearts. There is no doubt Tom, Mary, and Nick are kind and loving souls, not to mention inspirational.
Buffalo Kids opens in theaters February 6, 2026. It is an enjoyable film for almost all ages as it is rated PG for action, violence, some language, rude humor, and thematic elements.
About the Author
Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites and is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.
Melania is a mesmerizing documentary that takes viewersbehind the scenes of the 20 days prior to the Presidential Inauguration of 2025. It is an up-close and personal look at the First Lady who progresses from private citizen to First Lady as she prepares for her new role, again.
The film delves into her hands-on preparations for the Inauguration, which includes her designer wardrobe as well as the intricacies of the formal dinner which takes place the night before the swearing in ceremony. With her prior experience as a model, she is well-prepared to assist her team in getting her dresses perfect, something they appreciate. Her input adds to the quality of their work.
Besides the pre-inauguration preparations, Melania also takes part in the transformation of the White House, as it changes from the personal furniture and tastes of the Bidens to those of the Trumps. There is a stark difference between the two.
Something that is especially a delight is the look inside the Trump’s home in Trump Tower in New York City. This extravagant setting overlooks the city however the interior is just as impressive, and is something outsiders rarely get to see.
Audiences get to know Melania in ways people never before have. She is not only classy (which has been well-known since she stepped onto the scene), she is also filled with compassion for children and those who are suffering. She meets with a former Israeli hostage who is not only dealing with the trauma of her life as a former hostage and almost dying, but is also suffering from the knowledge that her husband is still being held. Side note: her husband was released after President Trump became #47.
Another touching part of the film is the First Lady’s grief dealing with the loss of her mother. One year after her mother’s death, she had to attend the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter, however her mother’s memory was always on her mind. Her visit to Saint Patrick’s Cathedral to spend a quiet time reflecting on her mother is not only touching and sincere, but also demonstrates Melania’s heart and soul. She explains that that kind of grief never goes away. This woman takes family seriously, and her comments about her mother and father, as well as her husband and son Barron, are filled with love.
Seeing the warmth between President Trump and Melania comes to the forefront whenever they are together. It is heartwarming to see the affection between them and the pride they have for each other. Their connection is deep and meaningful.
The final part of the film gives audiences a look at Melania’s fun side, as she sings along with the Michael Jackson song “Billie Jean,” which she acknowledges is her favorite, and when she dances along to “YMCA,” out of the view of the public. It’s a cute moment that adds to the insight of the many sides of the First Lady.
Melania surrounds herself with an impressive team, who respect her and whom she respects. She is a kind, friendly, and a considerate “boss” who, although is hard working and expects the same from her team, is mindful of everyone’s work, contributions, and duties.
A key aspect that threads itself throughout the movie is he love of the United States. She worked hard to become an American citizen, and she believes that is a badge of honor. She loves the country and the people. America is in her heart, which is evident throughout the film.
Melania is a spell-binding documentary, narrated by Melania herself, as she takes everyone along with her for 20 historic days.
Note: when the credits were rolling at the end, there were applause throughout the theater and no one was anxious to leave.
Melania opened in theaters January 20, 2026 and continues its historic run throughout the country.
About the Author
Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites and is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.
Mizu is the Japanese word for water. So, why is the newest brush from Mint Tools named Mizu? Possibly because it can be used in water. That’s a novelty for a high-end hair brush.
The Mizu is like its big sister, the Kaze which we introduced here last year. This new version has an anti-slip rubberized finish, making it versatile and easy to use in a shower. It won’t slip out of your hands very easily, and the water won’t damage the brush.
This brush, like the others from Mint Tools, does not pull or tug at hair. It glides through easily, on wet or dry hair. With the boar bristles, the natural oils are distributed through the hair and what I like is the massaging that they provide.It is like a spa for your scalp. Gently brush your scalp in a circular motion and feel the massage. Not only that, but it is intended to improve the circulation in the scalp. It’s a refreshing feeling getting a scalp massage, and now you can do it yourself.
Measuring 9 ¼ inches in length, with the head coming in at 2 ½ inches wide, the Mizu fits into totes and larger purses. And, it is light weight.
Last year after testing and reviewing the Kaze, I fell in love with it. It has been my go-to brush, making my hair softer and silkier than usual. I am happy to have this smaller Mizu. I especially like the rubberized feel. It is easy to hold and feels good.
The presentation is beautiful. The brush comes in a black box with a slide out drawer. Inside is a mint green lining gently cradling the Mizu. This makes it a great gift for anyone who values the health of their hair, and that is most of us.
About the Reviewer
Francine Brokaw has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She writes about products, travel, and entertainment.
Note: This unit was sent to me for an honest review with no expectations.
Ella McCay stars Emma Mackey in the title role. Ella is the Lieutenant Governor of an Eastern state (much of the movie was filmed in Rhode Island). When the Governor (Albert Brooks) is tapped for the Secretary of the Interior, Ella’s role is then uplifted to Governor, which she is excited about.
Ella is an idealistic young woman. Having grown up with her aunt Helen (Jamie Lee Curtis) after her mother died and her philandering father (Woody Harrelson) left. Ella has been a determined woman whose life has always been about helping others.
Her husband Ryan (Jack Lowden), on the other hand, is a narcissistic man whose only objective is elevating his own status. He has no compunction about throwing his wife or anyone under the bus to elevate his own stature. In short, he is an evil and self-centered man.
Estelle (Julie Kavner), Ella’s assistant/secretary, is quite the opposite. She would do anything the help Ella succeed.
This comedy is filled with some cute scenes, including those with Ella’s brother Casey (Spike Fearn) and especially with Helen, who has some of the best lines in the film.
While Ella is busy trying to help the people of her state, she hits many walls. After all, it’s politics. Juggling her personal and professional lives turns out to be much harder than she anticipated.
Two bonus featurettes look at the making of the film and the cast. Plus they take a look at writer/director James L. Brooks who has brought so many memorable films to the screen.
A blooper reel as well as several deleted scenes round out the bonuses.
Ella McCay is now available on digital and Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home, then streams exclusively on Hulu and Hulu on Disney+ for bundle subscribers in the U.S., and on Disney+ internationally starting February 5, 2026. The film will also be available on Blu-ray March 3, 2026.
Ella McCay is rated PG-13 for strong language, some sexual material, and drug content, including discussions of infidelity, implied sexual situations, marijuana use (accidental), and moderate profanity with some sexual and crude terms, along with brief physical conflict and a concussion.
About the Author
Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites and is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.
Images supplied courtesy Fox/Disney
*Bonus features vary by product and retailer.
The celebrated sequel to the 2016 hitanimated film Zootopia, Zootopia 2 (2025), is now available on digital platforms, complete with an abundance of bonus features.The original cast (both animated and voice) return for another fun-filled adventure, featuring everyone’s favorite police team Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde.
Now Judy and Nick once again team up to save the day, although it is touch and go throughout the film.
Zootopia is a utopian world with animals of all kinds inhabiting the lands, with a weather wall dividing the various climates making each location comfortable for the different animals. The wall was thought to be the invention of the Lynxley family, but as Judy surmises, there is something amiss with the whole history.
When she meets Gary, a snake on a mission, all her previous ideas about reptiles are proven wrong. Reptiles were said to be dangerous to mammals, so they were exiled a long time ago. And the Lynxley family intends on keeping them away. But Gary knows a secret. His great grandmother was the original inventor of the weather walls, however the devious Lynxleys outsmarted her to take the honor.Now Gary intends on proving that snakes and reptiles are not the evil ones. The evil culprits are the Lynxleys.
Once Judy figures out what is going on, she is hot on the trail, along with Gary, and Nick is close behind. They are out to obtain the proof of the original weather walls patent, which belonged to Gary’s family. Gary is a cute character, even for those viewers who are afraid of snakes, but let’s face it, animated snakes are not scary, at least Gary is not. He is loyal to those who are on his side, and will do anything to get the evidence and secure his family and all reptiles’ reputations.
Disney does sequels almost better than anyone and this is a prime example. Zootopia 2 is just as entertaining and delightful as the original.
Besides the fun story, the film has plenty of nods to other movies, as well as a scene where the Matterhorn from Disneyland is seen. As for the Easter Eggs, look for nods to The Little Mermaid, Star Wars, Ratatouille, Frozen, and more. The movie is rife with Easter Eggs.
Zootopia 2 is a pure delight from start to finish.
Bonus Features – on digital and Blu-ray/4kUHD/DVD
“The Zookeepers” is a feature the with Writer/Director Jared Bush and Director Byron Howard as they take viewers behind the scenes at Disney Animation. From the story room where the stories are fleshed out, to storyboarding the scenes, to the animation team, this was a long process.
The ideas for the stories get bounced around then sent to the artists, then to the editing team for review. Viewers get an inside look at this process.
They explain it takes Disney Animation 3-5 years to make a feature film. And most times it is well worth the time and talent. This feature the is a cute and fun peek inside the animation building.
“A City of Stars” is a fun look at the way the voice talent “act” while supplying the voices of the characters. They are video recorded to help the animators bring their emotions to the screen.
“Everybody Can Draw” describes how one animating supervisor follows his or her character through the process to make the sure the character is seamless throughout the movie. And there is a little lesson on how to draw Nibbles.
“Zoo-prising Secrets” delves into the many Easter Eggs that pop up throughout the film. And there are a lot of them!
“Wilde Times in the Booth” is another cute look at the voice actors as they animate themselves and their moves are then animated and combined into their characters.
“The Treat Trolly” is really not about the movie. It is about how the people at Disney Animation are cared for with plenty of treats, thanks to Walt Disney.
A music video by Shakira and nine deleted scenes round out the bonus features. Actually, some of the deleted scenes would have worked in the film, but the powers that be thought otherwise. You be the judge.
Zootopia 2 is rated PG for some thematic elements, rude humor, and action.
It is now available on digital and will be availableon 4K Ultra HD™ Blu-ray™ and DVD beginning March 3, 2026.
There is no doubt Judy Hopps is an inspirational and lovable character. And add Nick Wilde and you get a cute team that are bound to return for a third adventure. Stay tuned.
About the Author
Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites and is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.
To honor International Holocaust Remembrance Day, this new animated film Survivor is a must-see, especially for the younger generations. It is a touching story of one little boy who survived the horrific holocaust. Survivor is based on a true story.
The film will be available for free for only 24 hours on January 27, 2026 on YouTube. After that, it will only be available for ChaiFlicks members beginning January 28, 2026.
ChaiFlicks is a streaming channel focusing on quality stories about Jewish life and culture.
Survivor is a moving story that will tug at everyone’s hearts. It is dedicated to the 6 million Jews who were murdered in the Holocaust – and to those like Ivor, who survived. He was a miracle, unlike millions of others.
The story of 12-year-old Ivor and his friend Alec is beautifully brought to the screen through simple animation that is more emotional than any real-life film could be. It is a must-see, especially during these times of hate.
Never again should anyone have to experience what Ivor went through. Never Again.
In his later years, Ivor Perl, whose story this is, said, “The Holocaust happened in broad daylight, in plain sight – with the world watching.”
Award-winning animator Zoom Rockman explained, “When I read Ivor’s story, I immediately began to visualize it as a film—one I could bring to life through my paper puppet animation to create something both powerful and accessible, especially for audiences who might not otherwise engage with this vital subject matter. I deliberately chose to tell Ivor’s story in a Gen Z–inspired style to ensure what happened remains present in the memory of rising generations.”
With this simple animation and the beautiful music by composer Erran Baron Cohen, the impact of the story is much more dramatic. And definitely memorable.
Make sure to mark your calendar for January 27, 2026 to experience the touching story of little Ivor, an innocent little boy who faced the most horrific time in modern human history.
On January 27, 2026, go to this link for your free 24-hour access to Survivor.
Neil Friedman, CEO of ChaiFlicks states, “This is a profoundly moving and important film that we are honored to share with the world on such a meaningful day. Stories like Survivor must be seen, remembered, and passed on to as many people as possible. We are deeply honored to provide a platform for this uniquely crafted account of a child’s Holocaust survival, making it accessible to audiences everywhere on YouTube and our platform at no cost on International Holocaust Remembrance Day.”
About the Author
Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites and is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.
The Lunar New Year celebrations have kicked off at the Disneyland Resort with new outfits, 35 new food and beverage options, and Far East celebrations. Guests can also meet and greet Red Panda Mei from Turning Red. The Sip and Savor Pass is once again an option for sampling a variety of food.
Guests can ring in the Year of the Horse with Clarabelle Cow and Goofy in their all-new outfits inspired by traditional Vietnamese attire during Lunar New Year in Disney California Adventure park in Anaheim, Calif., from Jan. 23 through Feb. 22, 2026. This joyous festival honors Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean traditions with spectacular experiences, limited-time cuisine, themed décor and fun-filled activities. (Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)
The new teen drama series Finding Her Edge combines plenty of young adult drama with the beauty of ice skating. While it revolves around the skating competitions and sports challenges, there is plenty to dissect in the characters.
We have all heard about stage mothers whose lives revolve around pushing their children in front of the camera at every turn. Well, this show has a father whose whole life is about making his daughters ice skating champs, whether they want it or not.
Will Russo (Harmon Walsh) was an Olympic champion with his late wife back in the day. Now he runs a skating rink/academy where he intends on having his daughters train to become as famous and brilliant at the sport as he and his wife were. Everything looks polished and shiny on the outside, but Will is having problems keeping the rink afloat financially. However, the financial side is only half of his problems.
Elise Russo (Alexandra Beaton) is the oldest of the three sisters. She is favored to be a world champion, but Elise is not entirely sure that is what she really wants for her life. Yes, she is a beautiful skater, but is her heart in it?
Adriana Russo (Madelyn Keys), the middle child, faces plenty of emotional issues. She left the sport after her mother died and has been helping her dad with the business side, but deep down she wants to get back on the ice.
And Maria Russo (Alice Malakov), the youngest daughter, is a bit of a rebel. She says she has always been thought of as the “little ice baby,” but what does she want for herself?
While the three girls are facing personal internal conflict, they are being trotted out to perform, aka skate. They are expected to uphold and carry on the Russo dynasty. Will Will keep pushing them or will he ultimately see their true desires? And, the sibling rivalry and conflicts also add to the plot.
Now add in Freddie (Olly Atkins), Adriana’s former skating partner, who is back with a new partner who happens to be Adriana’s good friend. Adriana and Freddie were a couple on and off the ice, but now they are simply skaters following new paths. Their old feelings for each other, however, bubble to the surface. They are now competitors in the ice dancing competitions, but they harbor deep personal feelings for each other.
And Brayden (Cale Ambrozic) is an ego-centric skater who knows he is talented, good-looking, and destined for greatness. When things look bleak for the Russo family, Adriana decides to team up with him and she finally gets back on the ice to fulfill her passion.
Finding the amazing feeling of a great skating performance is in Adriana’s soul. Her sisters also feel the rush of a good performance but there is more magic in it for Adriana.
Add to the mix some other skaters training with Team Russo and you have the lineup of characters in this series. The drama aside, there are plenty of great ice skating scenes.
The business side of ice skating is always in the background. They need sponsorships, good publicity, and plenty of coverage in the media. Will Russo is a tough man, with his daughters as well as the business. And it is a business.
Sometimes it is as if Will does not care about his daughters’ lives. He simply wants to make them champions to carry on his legacy. But will he change and see what is really important to them? Is skating and being a champion as important to them as it is to him? Stay tuned. The final episode sparks a change of direction for several of the characters, leading to an unexpected tease for the next season.
The series follows these characters while exploring the cutthroat business of competition. It delves into sibling rivalries and relationships with the Russo sisters, and romantic relationships with the various characters.
With the Olympics coming in Milan, Italy next month (February 2026), this is perfect timing to take a peek at what goes into training, the emotional and physical challenges, and the business itself.
The eight episodes of season one of Finding Her Edge are available on Netflix. The series is rated TV-PG.
About the Author
Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites and is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.
