‘Blue Skies’ is a family-friendly new series on UP Faith and Family

Posted on February 16, 2026February 6, 2026 by Francine Brokaw

“Blue Skies is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good mystery with heart,” said Philip Manwaring, CEO, UP Entertainment. “It’s an exciting police procedural without the graphic depictions of violence and darkness that often come with this genre, centered around themes of hope, healing, family and the unexpected ways we find connection—including with our loyal four-legged friends.”

This new series takes place in the fictional but very scenic Crystal Ridge National Park (filmed in British Colombia). The scenery is spectacular with mountains, lakes, and plenty of trees to add to the flavor of this drama centering on a National Park Police criminal investigator.

Scarlet Hunter stars as Detective Jodi Larsen. She is dedicated to protecting the park, the visitors, and the community. Jodi is new at the job, having just finished her deployment as a military police officer. She grew up in the town and knew this was where she wanted to continue her law-enforcement career. Her love of the people, and especially the outdoors, makes her perfect for this job. She is steadfast in protecting this area against human or natural dangers.

When a stray dog turns up IN her house, Jodi is not sure what to do with him. He is a menace and a little destructive, however he is adorable. So, while trying to locate his owner, what else can she do but keep him? This fellow is given the name Blue. And what everyone discovers, he is better trained than some of the official K9s in the law enforcement.

Miranda Edwards is Liza King, the new by-the-book Superintendent in the region. Miranda insists everyone has a partner so, guess who ends up being Jodi’s partner? Yep. Blue gets the job. He has an uncanny way of finding lost people and helping solve the mysteries that happen in the park. He is also a great companion to Jodi, who is traversing her way through her new situation.

Shaughnessy Redden is Jodi’s father Bill Larsen. The two have had a hard time connecting since she returned from her deployment. During that time, her mother passed away, which resulted in a different interpersonal relationship for the two of them.

Markian Tarasiuk stars as Ryan Miller, a search and rescue professional who also teaches climbing skills. His skills add to the police team, and could also bring some comfort and possibly more to Jodi.

The remaining members of the team are Detective Nora Esposito (Veronica Long), who is loyal to Jodi, Detective Alex Meeks (David Lennon), who is stubborn and a bit self centered, and Tyson Bernard (Darius Willis) whose drone named Betty is a great help when searching through the rough terrain.

There are plenty of situations and criminal activities that arise in the 5,000 square miles of the park, and the team is there to solve them. Besides their professional lives, their relationships add to the drama and fun of the series. This is a show with heart, and Blue will definitely steal viewers’ hearts!

Being on UP Faith and Family, viewers can rest assured there are not going to be scenes of violence, even though this is a police drama. This is a streaming channel that brings inspiring and warm heart-felt stories to viewers. This is a nice series for the whole family.

Blue Skies premieres February 19, 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.

Images are supplied courtesy UP Faith and Family

‘Skywatcher’ looks up

Posted on February 14, 2026 by Francine Brokaw

The documentary, Skywatcher, looks at the possible unidentified sightings in the Sedona, Arizona area. Whether you believe in aliens or not, it’s an interesting look at those who do and who go out of their way to find where sightings have occurred.

“Skywatcher is exactly the kind of bold, curiosity-driven documentary that resonates with today’s audiences,” said Rich Wolff, CEO of Breaking Glass Pictures. “Dan Starkey and Clive Christopher approach the subject with genuine passion and investigative rigor, inviting viewers to question what they’re seeing and decide for themselves. We’re excited to bring this compelling film to global streaming audiences.”

As Wolff said, the passion of the two skywatchers in the film is without question. Their excitement is evident as they point out possible UFO and UAP craft in the sky.

Skeptics will undoubtedly wonder if the images are digitally enhanced. After all, these days it is sometimes difficult to separate real from artificial, given the state of technology now.

Whether you are a believer or not, the scenery of the Sedona region is beautiful to see. Sedona is known as a new age area where crystal stores abound and jeep tours take visitors out to where there have been unconventional encounters.

With more and more sightings of objects in the sky from commercial pilots to military officers to everyday people, the idea that we might not be alone is gaining traction.

Skywatcher is interesting and adds to the question of “are we alone?”

The film will debut on major streaming platforms beginning February 24, 2026.

About the Author

Image supplied courtesy Breaking Glass Pictures

‘A Missed Connection’ resolves itself on Great American Family

Posted on February 13, 2026February 16, 2026 by Francine Brokaw

Fate is front and center in this adorable story of Vickie and Max. They have an instant connection when they meet one morning while they are waiting for a subway, however she gets on her train and leaves before they have a chance to exchange numbers, or even names. A Missed Connection follows their road to destiny.

Five years after that accidental few minutes on the train platform, Vickie (Meggan Kaiser) is on her way to her tropical wedding when who should also be on the flight? Yep, it is Max (Alex Trumble). He knows he knows her from some place, but can’t quite figure it out. And she is oblivious, at least for the time being.

It turns out that Max was hired by Vickie’s fiancé James (Chris Mimikos) to photograph the preparations for the wedding, since he won’t be able to get to the island until the day before the nuptials. While Max is busy taking photos, Vickie is joined by her grandmother Gigi (Gail Byer) and two friends who start getting everything ready for the big day.

Max turns out to be much more than the wedding photographer. He helps Vickie manage her maze of preparations as well as her future in-laws. This guy is amazing, helpful, knowledgeable, friendly, funny, and definitely good looking. And in time he realizes where he had met Vickie those five years earlier.

But what is a guy to do when he finds himself falling in love with the woman who is going to marry another man, and he is also helping her plan the entire shindig?

Pretty soon, well, not until the end, Vickie sees the ad Max had placed in the “Missed Connections” section of their favorite newspaper those five years earlier.

As Gigi tells her granddaughter, life is short and she should follow her gut. And who can ignore fate stepping in twice in one lifetime? It looks like destiny.

This is enjoyable and fun to watch. Kaiser and Trumble make a cute on-screen couple, and seeing Max do his best and go out of his way to make life easier for Vickie is endearing. What a guy.

A Missed Connection begins streaming on Great American Pure Flix February 19, 2026, and premieres February 21, 2026 on Great American Family and GFAM+.

About the Author

Image Courtesy Great American Media

‘Crossroad Springs’ returns to conclude season one

Posted on February 13, 2026February 24, 2026 by Francine Brokaw

The family drama Crossroad Springs returns in March to conclude the freshman season. The final four episodes of season one continue the Hamilton family’s efforts to maintain their ranch, while dealing with their Newman neighbors.

Jonathan Stoddard is James Hamilton, a pastor who left his congregation in Chicago to return to his roots. Helping at the family’s ranch is fulfilling, but not as much as being a pastor. So, these final episodes of the season explore his setting up a Cowboy Church in the barn, which is welcomed by the folks in town. Prior to this, they would have to travel to the next town, an inconvenience which had many people skipping church altogether. With a church right there, they now have a local place where they can attend Sunday services, with James’ inspiring and insightful sermons.

Shaun Johnston is Willis Hamilton, father to James and his sister Dr. Janet Hamilton (Emily Alatalo), who is facing some troubling issues in her work at the local clinic. Their aunt Amy (Kate Drummond) is a help at the ranch as well as a sounding board for the siblings.

The Newmans, their neighbors, have always been a thorn in the side of Willis, who is still carrying on the family feud with Daniel Newman (Jesse Hutch) who inherited the ranch when his father died. Now Daniel is having his own problems with his uncle, an oil man who does not want to modernize the ranch while Daniel sees the only way forward is modernization. So, while dealing with the feud with Willis Hamilton, Daniel also has his hands full with his uncle who is underhanded and wants to bankrupt the Hamiltons.

This is a family drama set against the backdrop of a small Texas town and the ranching community. It has been a popular series for Great American Family and after the final four episodes air, fans can look forward later in the year to season two.

The first of the final four episodes of season one streams exclusively on Pure Flix beginning March 5, 2026, and premieres on Great American Family and GFAM+ on March 8, 2026.

This is a good time to catch up on the first part of the season if you have not seen it yet!

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.

‘Sesame Street: Volume 2 coming to Netflix

Posted on February 11, 2026February 11, 2026 by Francine Brokaw

Sesame Street fun is back.

Magical dragons, flying bikes and more! The fun-loving Sesame Street friends grow caring hearts and curious minds while embracing their imaginations.

Beginning March 9, 2026, the gang returns for more fun. All the gang returns with Miley Cyrus and plenty of others combined with music, laughs, friendship, and love – and, of course, cookies. After all, Cookie Monster needs his cookies.

Stream all the fun with your favorite characters on Sesame Street with four 30-minute shows on Netflix.

Elmo’s  Toy Swap 

Elmo’s eager to swap with his friends. But when he sees his items being played with differently than how he used to play with them, he feels angry. Then he learns that there’s no wrong way to play. Meanwhile, Grover swaps for an airplane! Just imagine what can happen when special guest Miley Cyrus stops by the Sesame Street swap!

Abby’s Magical Dragons

Abby’s beastie-sitting three musical dragons by herself but she makes a bedtime routine mistake, and the dragons awaken. Abby feels overwhelmed and after a wand wiggle, she asks her friends to play a lullaby to help the dragons fall asleep.

Elmo’s Awesome Bike

Elmo got his first bike! He loves it so much until he sees Abby’s new bike that can fly! Elmo feels jealous and does a heart breath. He now realizes he loves his bike just the way it is. Meanwhile, Grover fixes Cookie Monster’s Cookie Cart.

Elmo and the Great Cookie Stack 

Elmo and his friends try setting a cookie tower record, but Elmo feels discouraged when he keeps knocking it down. He does a wiggle break and then helps his team in another way. Meanwhile Grover tries taking a photo of Bert and Ernie.

Images supplied courtesy Netflix

Francine Brokaw

‘Meet Me in New York’ airs and streams on Great America Media

Posted on February 7, 2026February 7, 2026 by Francine Brokaw

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

Image supplied courtesy Great American Media

‘The Way to You’ is a cute and fun story

Posted on February 6, 2026 by Francine Brokaw

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

Image courtesy Hallmark Channel

‘Buffalo Kids’ is full of heart

Posted on February 5, 2026February 5, 2026 by Francine Brokaw

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 safe while 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

Images supplied courtesy Kids VIVA

‘Melania’ shines on the big screen in a new documentary

Posted on February 4, 2026February 4, 2026 by Francine Brokaw

Melania is a mesmerizing documentary that takes viewers behind 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

Mizu Paddle Brush by Mint Tools

Posted on February 1, 2026February 1, 2026 by Francine Brokaw

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.