Author: Francine Brokaw

Bring home ‘Summerland’ on Blu-ray or DVD

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


If you’re looking for an entertaining film that will make your hours of staying in due to COVID more enjoyable, check out Summerland. The story takes place during World War II and stars Gemma Arterton as a writer in the countryside who takes in a young London boy during the time of the blitz.

Alice is a loner. But when she discovers that she is going to be caring for a young boy being relocated from London, she is outraged. She does not want him but agrees to take him for a week while other arrangements can be found.

Frank (Lucas Bond) is a nice boy and feels strange being away from his home and mother, and especially with a woman who knows nothing about kids and does not want him there in the first place.

During the week Alice starts to bond with the young boy and when it comes time to send him to his new home, she decides it is best for both of them to stay together. Alice opens up and Frank thrives in the little town. While the war rages in London and Europe, their idyllic countryside is rocked only by the emotional traumas that have been inflicted on the two. And when there is even more tragedy, the duo become closer than ever.

This is a story of love and friendship with the backdrop of the war and the mores of the time. There is a little plot twist that makes this a sentimental and emotional story that will touch the hearts of viewers.

There are plenty of bonus features on this Blu-ray release. There are interviews with the entire cast (Gemma Arterton, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Penelope Wilton, Tom Courtenay, Lucas Bond, and Dixie Egerickx, as well as the writer/director Jessica Swale. Viewers learn how the story came to be and how everyone involved was happy to be part of this great work of storytelling with strong female characters. The actors discuss their characters and their relationship to the story. And Lucas Bond tells a cute story of having cold legs during the filming of the movie because his character is always dressed in shorts. There is also a look behind the scenes where viewers see how the filmmakers set up the shots and how the scenery added greatly to the film.

This is truly a wonderful movie. Summerland is rated PG for thematic content, some suggestive comments, language, and smoking. It’s available on Blu-ray and DVD.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 25 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Los Angeles Press Club and the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.

‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ comes home

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


In 1991 the world fell in love with the Sega Genesis arcade character Sonic the Hedgehog. He was as popular as Mario and Pac Man. Now Paramount Home Entertainment brings the loveable little blue guy to film with Ben Schwartz voicing little Sonic.

When Sonic is being hunted on his home planet because of his superpower of speed, he is sent to Earth to live. But he cannot let anyone know he is there otherwise he will have to use one of his rings and transport to another planet. After all, superpowers are sought after throughout the universe. Who wouldn’t want to be able to run from the Rockies to the Pacific Ocean and back in a matter of seconds?

Sonic spends his days watching people. He is especially fond of the local Sheriff Tom Wachowski (James Marsden), whom he calls “The Donut Lord” because of his relationship with the doughy goodies. But when his temper is riled up because he is very lonely, Sonic causes a power outage that gets the attention of the military. So they send Dr. Robotnik (Jim Carrey) to find the source of this destruction. Robotnik is not a nice guy. As a matter of fact, he’s a villain

With Robotnik on his trail, little Sonic is discovered by Tom who accidentally makes the little fellow lose his rings that will transport him out of danger. Together they must track down the rings and keep Sonic safe. Along their journey they come across some interesting characters and Sonic get his famous red shoes.

The story is about love, friendship, and family and is a fun way for adults to relive their days playing the game and for kids to discover the genuine goodness and comedy of Sonic.

In the Blu-ray and 4K releases are several bonus features. There are some deleted scenes and a blooper reel. Jim Carrey discusses taking on the role of Robotnik. Sonic takes viewers on an 80 second tour of the planet. Ben Schwartz shows viewers how Sonic came to the screen via the technology and imagination of the filmmakers. Perhaps the most interesting bonus feature is a history of Sonic – his origins and little behaviors that captured the hearts and minds of gamers of all ages. He was created to be the rival of Nintendo’s Mario, and he certainly gathered loyal fans around the world. He is definitely a fun loving little guy.

The home entertainment release date is November 24, 2020. It comes with four collector’s cards and makes a great holiday gift and stocking stuffer. The little blue guy is a character the whole family can love. Sonic the Hedgehog is rated PG for action, some violence, rude humor and brief mild language.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 25 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Los Angeles Press Club and the Television Critics Association.

Vlad and Niki Rule the Web

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

 

Currently, they have 57+ Million YouTube viewers on the English Channel and more than 120+ Million worldwide.  They are #1 with boys worldwide. They were recognized by the International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences, 10th Annual Lovie Awards “for their Viral Video collaboration with Mattel’s Hot Wheels City video. So who are these little guys who have taken the world by storm?

“Vlad & Niki”is an imaginative, live-action preschool YouTube series, showcasing the everyday comedic antics of two young brothers, starring seven-year-old Vlad Vashketov and five-year-old Niki Vashketov, along with the help of their humorous mother Victoria Vashketova. “Vlad & Niki” have more than 57+ million subscribers on their English Channel and 120+ million worldwide with more than 56 billion total views averaging five billion views a month.

The streaming short-form content is packed with non-stop adventures, creativity and tons of fun. Localized on 16 channels and translated into 13 languages, the key preschool learning themes for “Vlad & Niki” include family fun, discovery play, home adventures, indoor and outdoor fun and games, singing and dancing.

The inspiration for the series began when Vlad noticed the antics of other kids while watching YouTube, and wanted to make one of his own. The Vashketov family began recording and uploading videos of the boys during their free time on the weekends in their home.  As their popularity grew, so did the families’ creativity.  Each episode is produced with an innovative mix of live action, animation and music to create comedic videos that capture the attention of the preschool demographic. Their one-year-old brother Christian often guest-stars in the episodes.

Vlad & Niki were recognized by the International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences’ 10th Annual Lovie Awards for outstanding work in the Shortlist category.   They received numerous YouTube Creative Awards, commonly known as Play Buttons, including a Ruby Play Button for fifty million subscribers; three Diamond Ruby Play Buttons for ten million subscribers; 16 Gold Ruby Play Buttons for a million subscribers; and 16 Silver Ruby Play Buttons for one hundred thousand subscribers.

Vlad is the rambunctious, adventurous, older brother who enjoys playing soccer, kickboxing, and water sports.  A natural performer, Vlad is obsessed with animals and, when not in school, he spends his free time hip hop dancing and singing to his favorite performers including Maroon 5 and Imagine Dragons.  Vlad is in second grade and speaks English and Russian

Niki is the precocious younger brother who loves traveling, fashion, singing, dancing, painting and being creative.  In his free time he enjoys do-it-yourself projects, arts and crafts, cooking and baking – pies are his favorite.  Niki is in kindergarten and speaks English and Russian.

Victoria is the fun-loving mother whose lively personality is essential to the “Vlad & Niki” storytelling.  The mother of three began her career performing as a competitive gymnast in Russia.  She had a reputation for being the lively, expressive gymnast showcasing her exuberant personality during competition.

The “Vlad & Niki” video-streaming property is created, written and produced by Sergey, the boys’ father, and his wife Victoria, who co-founded Content Media Group FZC, LLC. Before garnering viral global attention, Sergey was a successful salesman and applied his skills to help create a worldwide brand that includes international licensing deals and brand integration.

Originally from Moscow, Russia, by way of Thailand, the family now resides in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and Florida, United States.

Their new App Games for IOS and Android are:

“Vlad & Niki Run”

Just like Vlad and Niki, players can jump and run as fast as they can to dodge trains, customize and suit up in their favorite hero outfits, ride and surf awesome hoverboards and fly with crazy jetpacks.

“Vlad & Niki 12 Locks”

Players will find it hard to sit still while getting into all sorts of adventures racing cars, flying planes and rocketing into space in superhero suits trying to unlock the 12 locks required to open a jar full of yummy chocolate chip cookies.

“Vlad & Niki Supermarket”

Exciting and educational supermarket adventures are in store for players who go to the grocery store, building supplies market, housewares store and toys shop to learn about shopping and paying for products, as well as helping father and mother unpack the products and put them on their places at home.

This family sure knows how to entertain. And they look like they are loving every second. Way to go boys! Well done.

A Roundup of 2020 Holiday Viewing

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

 

PBS

NATURE “Santa’s Wild Home”
Premieres: Wednesday, November 25, 8:00-9:00 p.m. ET
Get an intimate look into life in Lapland, fabled land of Santa Claus and actual home of tenacious wildlife such as reindeer, wolverines, Brown bears and more.

CHRISTMAS WITH THE TABERNACLE CHOIR FEATURING KELLI O’HARA AND RICHARD THOMAS
Premieres: Monday, December 14, 9:00-10:00 p.m. ET
Encores: Thursday, December 24, 9:00-10:00 p.m. ET
The 17th annual “Christmas with The Tabernacle Choir” holiday special features Tony Award winner and Emmy and Grammy nominee Kelli O’Hara, Emmy Award-winning television, film and stage actor Richard Thomas, and the Emmy Award-winning Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square along with Orchestra at Temple Square and Bells at Temple Square in an Americana-themed program that exudes the warmth and peace the season can bring.

ELLA WISHES YOU A SWINGING CHRISTMAS WITH VANESSA WILLIAMS
Premieres: Tuesday, December 15, 8:00-9:00 p.m. ET
Encores: Friday, December 18, 9:00-10:00 p.m. ET
Friday, December 25, 10:30-11:30 p.m. ET
In collaboration with the Ella Fitzgerald Foundation, the American Pops Orchestra presents an evening celebrating the entire iconic album of holiday classics. This 60-minute performance stars host and vocalist Vanessa Williams with appearances by Dee Dee Bridgewater, Norm Lewis, Carmen Ruby Floyd, Nova Payton, Dave Detwiler and Morgan James.

CALL THE MIDWIFE HOLIDAY SPECIAL (2020)
Premieres: Friday, December 25, 9:00-10:30 p.m. ET
It is December 1965. Everyone at Nonnatus House is looking forward to traditional celebrations with all the trimmings, but nothing goes quite to plan. Sister Monica Joan is rushed to hospital, and Trixie is incensed to receive a subscription to a Marriage Bureau as a Christmas gift. Meanwhile, a surprise reunion for Shelagh involves her in a deeply moving birth, and the Circus arrives in Poplar, bringing new friendships, new experiences and an exciting adventure for Nurse Crane!

UNITED IN SONG: A CELEBRATION OF AMERICA’S RESILIENCE
Premieres: Thursday, December 31, 8:00-9:30 p.m. ET
Encores: Thursday, December 31, 9:30-11:00 p.m. ET
As part of a national PBS broadcast for New Year’s Eve, these performances, filmed at George Washington’s Mt. Vernon as well as the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, encourage our nation to come together and celebrate our irrepressible strength as Americans. From the enormity of COVID-19 to the significant presence of social injustice, this special evening brings us together in the ever-present pursuit of our uniting as one America.
Below is the rundown of Nickelodeon’s “Nickmas” premieres, airing (ET/PT) on Nickelodeon,
unless otherwise noted.

Top Elf
“‘Tis the Season to be Top Elf” (season premiere) – Thursday, Nov. 19, at
7:30pm, with new episodes airing on Thursdays at 7:30pm through Dec. 17. Santa invites seven extraordinary Elf-testants to the North Pole to compete for the title of Top Elf. Social media star Addison Rae joins Santa and Ms. Jingles to judge life-sized countdown calendars.

NICKELODEON

PAW Patrol
“Pups Save a Bah Humdinger!”
(30-minute special) – Friday, Nov. 20, at
12pm
Mayor Humdinger is being very naughty on Christmas Eve, and it’s up to the PAW Patrol to help
Santa and save Christmas.

Santiago of the Seas
“A Pirate Christmas” (30-minute special) – Friday, Nov. 20, at
12:30pm
Santiago and his crew must help Santa save Christmas.

The Adventures of Paddington
“The Lost Letter” (30-minute special) – Friday, Nov. 27,
at 8:30pm (Nick Jr. Channel)
Paddington has accidentally sent Jonathan’s Santa letter to Peru by mistake. When he sends
Pigeonton to the North Pole with a new list, he goes missing.

The All-Star Nickmas Spectacular
– Saturday, Nov. 28, at 9pm
Nickelodeon brings cheer this holiday with star-studded guests

Blue’s Clues & You! “Blue’s Night Before Christmas” – Friday, Dec. 4, at 11am
It’s the night before Christmas and Josh and Blue play Blue’s Clues to figure out what Blue wants for Christmas, decorate with Steve, help Joe wrap presents, and celebrate a night full of holiday traditions.

Ryan’s Mystery Playdate
“Ryan’s Christmas Time Special!” – Friday, Dec. 4, at 11:30am
Ryan and his family spend Christmas remembering their messiest memories, coolest challenges
and most magical playdates.

Bubble Guppies
“The Guppies Save Christmas!” – Friday, Dec. 4, at 12pm
On Christmas Eve, Molly, Gil, and Bubble Puppy discover Santa’s lost list in the snow. To return the list safely to the North Pole, they have to keep it out of the hands of the Christmas-hating Humbug.

It’s Pony
“Bramley Holiday” – Saturday, Dec. 5, at 11:30am
The Bramleys need to find a way to celebrate their traditions and be together for the holidays.

The Casagrandes
“A Very Casagrandes Christmas” – Saturday, Dec. 5, at 7pm
Ronnie Anne is excited for the perfect Christmas, but visits from the neighbors put her dream Nochebuena on hold.

The Loud House
“Season’s Cheating/A Flipmas Carol” – Saturday, Dec. 5, at 7:30pm
Lincoln tries to rig the family gift swap and ends up learning a valuable lesson. Then, a Scrooge- like Flip is visited by three ghosts in a special take on “A Christmas Carol.”

Abby Hatcher
“A Very Fuzzly Christmas” – Sunday, Dec. 6, at 10am (Nick Jr. Channel)
Abby is determined to bring her holiday traditions to the neighborhood when a snowstorm closes the hotel on Christmas Eve.

The Substitute
“Gabriel Iglesias
– Thursday, Dec. 10, at 8:30pm
Comedian and actor Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias brings kids on a hilarious journey to uncover the “true” history and traditions of the holidays.

PAW Patrol
“Pups Save the Marooned Mayors/Pups Save the Game Show” – Friday,
Dec. 11, at 12pm
While ice fishing in the North Country, Mayor Goodway and Mayor Humdinger get stuck in an ice crevasse. Then, Cowgirl Beryl hosts a game show at the Wingnuts’ farm.

Baby Shark’s Big Show!
“Baby Shark’s Big Fishmas Special” (series premiere) – Friday,
Dec. 11, at 12:30pm
With Fishmas just around the corner, the season’s hottest toy–Burpin’ Bubbz–is at the top of Baby’s and William’s wish lists and when Santa Jaws goes missing, it’s up to them to save the holiday.

Danger Force
“Down Goes Santa: Part 1” – Saturday, Dec. 12, at 8pm
Danger Force learns the real story of Christmas.
When Santa’s sleigh comes crashing down, an ancient spell is broken and the fate of Christmas hangs in the balance.

Side Hustle
“Friendiversary” – Saturday, Dec. 12, at 8:30pm
Every year Lex and Presley celebrate their Friendiversary by giving each other a thoughtful gift, but this year a blizzard threatens to derail their tradition. The girls venture into the storm, making for a Friendiversary they’ll never forget.

All That
“1134” – Thursday, Dec. 17, at 8:30pm
Hit ‘Em With Spanish returns for a holiday edition, Nathan cancels candycanes,
All That presents The Remote: A Horror Trailer, and Denzel shows up at a department store to spread unwelcomed holiday cheer advice.
Performance by: Pentatonix

ALVINNN!!! and the Chipmunks
“A Very Merry Chipmas” – Saturday, Dec. 19, at 11am
Theodore is mistaken for an elf and whisked off to the North Pole to help build toys in Santa’s workshop.

LEGO City Adventures
“Arrest Ye Merry Gentlemen” – Saturday, Dec. 19, at 11:30am
When Fendrich threatens to ruin Sinclair’s holiday gala, Duke intervenes to save both the party and the holidays.

Danger Force
“Down Goes Santa: Part 2” – Saturday, Dec. 19, at 8pm
The fight to save the holidays rages on! Danger Force is forced to square off with Krampus on his own turf to try and save Christmas.

Below is the rundown of Nickelodeon’s “Nickmas” classic holiday episodes, airing (ET/PT) on
Nickelodeon, unless otherwise noted.

PAW Patrol
“Pups Save Christmas” – Tuesday, Dec. 1, at 8am; Friday, Dec. 4, at 10am
When Santa’s sleigh crashes and the reindeer run off, Ryder and the PAW Patrol have to help
Santa finish delivering presents and save Christmas.

The Loud House “
11 Louds a Leapin’” Saturday, Dec. 5, at 6:30pm; Saturday, Dec. 12,
at 10:30am; Tuesday, Dec. 22, at 1pm
The Louds are getting ready for Christmas when the unthinkable happens to Lincoln – his sled
goes in their neighbor’s yard! Lincoln and Clyde attempt to pull off a sled rescue mission and
end up finding out secrets about Mr. Grouse.

SpongeBob SquarePants
“It’s A SpongeBob Christmas!” – Saturday, Dec. 5, at 11am;
Saturday, Dec. 12, at 12pm; Monday, Dec. 21, at 1pm
SpongeBob inadvertently helps Plankton enact his plot to put all of Bikini Bottom on Santa’s
naughty list, and now has to stop Plankton before he gets his Christmas wish—the Krabby Patty
secret formula.

SpongeBob SquarePants
“Patchy the Pirate Presents the SpongeBob SquarePants
Christmas Special” – Sunday, Dec. 6, at 1pm; Saturday, Dec. 12, at 10am; Monday, Dec.
21, at 1:30pm
Nobody in Bikini Bottom has ever heard of Christmas or Santa Claus until Sandy lets them in on
this surface tradition. SpongeBob wants to bring Christmas to Bikini Bottom this year and his
enthusiasm is infectious.Everyone gets into the spirit, waiting for Santa to arrive on the big day, except Squidward, who has scoffed at SpongeBob the whole time.

OVATION TV

Tuesday, December 1
6:00am ET – Veni Domine – Advent & Christmas at the Sistine Chapel

Friday, December 4
3:00pm ET – I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus (2002)
5:00pm ET – Crazy for Christmas (2005)

Saturday, December 5
11:00am ET – The Art Of: Holidays

Friday, December 11
3:00pm ET – Deck the Halls (2005)
5:00pm ET – A Frosty Affair (2017)

Sunday, December 13
11:30am ET – The Shadow Island Mysteries: Last Christmas (2010)

Friday, December 18
3:00pm ET – Christmas Caper (2007)
5:00pm ET – Eve’s Christmas (2004)

Saturday, December 19
6:30am ET – The Art Of: Holidays
7:00am ET – Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby / Christmas Special – St. Moritz, Switzerland
8:00am ET – Travel Man: Christmas Special / Florence
9:00am ET – Travel Man: Christmas Special / Hong Kong
10:00am ET – The Librarians and Santa’s Midnight Run
11:00am ET – The Librarians and the Christmas Thief
12:00pm ET – Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations / Holiday Special
1:00pm ET – Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries / Murder Under the Mistletoe

Sunday, December 20
10:00am ET – The 12 Dogs of Christmas (2006)
12:30pm ET – Twist of Faith (2013)

Monday, December 21
6:00am ET – Home for the Holidays (2005)

Tuesday, December 22
6:00am ET – His and Her Christmas (2005)

Wednesday, December 23
6:00am ET – Christmas Grace (2014)

Thursday, December 24 – Christmas Eve
6:00am ET – Deck the Halls (2005)
8:00am ET – Eve’s Christmas (2004)
10:00am ET – Home for the Holidays (2005)
12:00pm ET – An Accidental Christmas (2007)
2:00pm ET – I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus (2002)
4:00pm ET – A Frosty Affair (2017)
6:00pm ET – Murdoch Mysteries: A Merry Murdoch Christmas

Friday, December 25 – Christmas Day
6:00am ET – Murdoch Mysteries: A Merry Murdoch Christmas
8:00am ET – The Shadow Island Mysteries: Last Christmas (2010)

*Christmas Day Movie Marathon*
10:00am ET – Fargo (1996)
12:00pm ET – Walking Tall (2004)
2:00pm ET – Next of Kin (1989)
4:30pm ET – Clear & Present Danger (1994)
7:00pm ET – Dances with Wolves (1990)
11:00pm ET – The Quick and the Dead (1995)
1:30am ET – Blazing Saddles (1974)

NETFLIX

November 10
Dash & Lily

November 5
Operation Christmas Drop

November 13
Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey

November 18
Holiday Home Makeover with Mr. Christmas

November 19
The Princess Switch: Switched Again

November 20
Alien Xmas

November 22
Dolly Parton’s Christmas on the Square

November 24
Dragons: Rescue Riders: Huttsgalor Holiday

November 25
The Christmas Chronicles: Part Two

November 27
A Go! Go! Cory Carson Christmas
Dance Dreams: Hot Chocolate Nutcracker
Sugar Rush Christmas: Season 2

November 29
Wonderoos: Holiday Holiday!

Coming in December
Home For Christmas: Season 2
How to Ruin Christmas: The Wedding

December 1
Angela’s Christmas Wish
The Holiday Movies That Made Us

December 3
Chico Bon Bon and the Very Berry Holiday
Tudo Bem No Natal Que Vem

December 4
Captain Underpants Mega Blissmas
The Great British Baking Show: Holidays: Season 3

December 5
Mighty Express: A Mighty Christmas

December 8
Super Monsters: Santa’s Super Monster Helpers

December 9
Ashley Garcia: Genius in Love: Christmas
The Big Show Show: Christmas

December 11
A Trash Truck Christmas

LIFETIME

The full slate of new movie premieres at 8pm ET/PT includes:

11/11 A Welcome Home Christmas – Repeat for Veteran’s Day (Jana Kramer, Brandon Quinn, Craig Morgan, Tim Reid, Charlene Tilton)
11/13 Christmas on the Vine (Julianna Guill, Meredith Baxter)
11/14 Christmas on Wheels (Tiya Sircar, Michael Xavier)
11/15 The Christmas Edition (Carly Hughes, Rob Mayes, Marie Osmond)
11/20 A Taste of Christmas (Anni Kreuger, Giles Marini, Nia Vardalos)
11/21 Feliz NaviDAD (Mario Lopez, AnnaLynn McCord, Paulina Chavez)
11/22 Homemade Christmas (Michelle Argyris, Travis Nelson)
11/27 Dear Christmas (Melissa Joan Hart, Jason Priestley, Robin Givens, Ed Begley Jr., Faith Prince, Hilarie Burton, Antwon Tanner)
11/28 Merry Liddle Christmas Wedding (Kelly Rowland, Thomas Cadrot, Debbi Morgan, Bresha Webb)
11/29 People Presents: Once Upon a Main Street (Vanessa Lachey, Ryan McPartlin, Patrick Duffy, Polly Draper)
11/30 The Christmas Listing (Lexi Giovagnoli, Travis Burns)
12/4 Too Close for Christmas (Chad Michael Murray, Jessica Lowndes)
12/5 Let’s Meet Again on Christmas Eve (Kyla Pratt, Brooks Darnell)
12/6 Christmas Ever After (Ali Stroker, Daniel di Tomasso)
12/7 The Santa Squad (Rebecca Dalton, Aaron Ashmore)
12/11 Inn Love By Christmas (Jonna Walsh, Jesse Hutch)
12/12 The Christmas Setup (Ben Lewis, Blake Lee, Fran Drescher, Ellen Wong, Chad Connell)
12/13 A Sugar & Spice Holiday (Jacky Lai, Tony Giroux, Tzi Ma, Lillian Lim)
12/14 Lonestar Christmas (Stephanie Bennett, Marco Grazzini)
12/18 Christmas on the Menu (Kim Shaw, Clayton James)
12/19 A Christmas Exchange (Laura Vandervoort, Rainbow Sun Francks)
12/20 A Christmas Break (Cindy Sampson, Steve Byers)
12/21 Spotlight on Christmas (Tori Anderson, Victor Zinck)
12/22 The Christmas High Note (Jamie Luner, Johnny Messner)
12/23 Christmas at the Castle (Brooke Burfitt, Dan Jeannotte)
12/24 The “Best of” It’s a Wonderful Lifetime Slate marathon
12/25 My Sweet Holiday (Malone Thomas, Jason Burkey)

HALLMARK CHANNEL

Saturday, October 24

Jingle Bell Bride, starring Julie Gonzalo and Ronnie Rowe Jr.

When Jessica (Gonzalo) travels to a remote town in Alaska to track down a rare flower for her wedding client, she becomes smitten with the small town charm and one of its locals (Rowe Jr.)

Sunday, October 25

Chateau Christmas, starring Merritt Patterson and Luke Macfarlane

A world-class pianist (Patterson) returns home for some much-needed R&R, but an old ex (Macfarlane) uses this time to remind her of the ambitious girl she once was.

Saturday, October 31

One Royal Holiday, starring Laura Osnes, Aaron Tveit, Krystal Joy Brown, Victoria Clark, and Tom McGowan

Anna (Osnes) rescues a mother and son during a blizzard, only to learn that they are actually royalty — part of the Royal Family of Galwick, to be exact. She takes this opportunity to show the young prince (Tveit) how to celebrate Christmas the non-royal way.

Sunday, November 1

On the 12th Date of Christmas, starring Mallory Jansen and Tyler Hynes

Two game designers use everything that the holidays bring — festive cheer, mistletoe moments, and more — to dream up a scavenger hunt throughout the city.

Saturday, November 7

Never Kiss a Man in a Christmas Sweater, starring Ashley Williams and Niall MatterMaggie (Williams) is gearing up for another Christmas on her own … until an unexpected houseguest (Matter) shows up at her doorstep. She makes the most out of the situation, and even finds comfort in having someone to celebrate with.

Sunday, November 8

Christmas with the Darlings, starring Katrina Law and Carlo Marks

Right before she moves on from her assistant title, Jessica (Law) helps her boss one last time by caring for his younger brother’s (Marks) orphaned nieces and nephews. In due time, she learns the complications that arise from mixing business with pleasure.

Saturday, November 14

Christmas in Vienna, starring Sarah Drew and Brennan Elliott

While in Vienna for a violin concert, Jess (Drew) rediscovers what made her fall in love with music in the first place, all thanks to a new flame (Elliott).

Sunday, November 15

A Timeless Christmas, starring Ryan Paevey and Erin Cahill

Charles (Paevey) travels from 1903 to 2020 to experience a futuristic Christmas, with the help of his charming tour guide (Cahill).

Saturday, November 21

A Nashville Christmas Carol, starring Jessy Schram, Wes Brown, Wynonna Judd, Sara Evans, RaeLynn, Kix Brooks, and Kimberly Williams-Paisley

Just as Vivienne (Schram) is about to accept a new job across the country, she’s reminded that leaving everything she built isn’t necessarily the best way to move forward. The Spirit of Christmas Past (Brooks) and the Spirit of Christmas Present (Williams-Paisley) show her just that.

Sunday, November 22

The Christmas House, starring Robert Buckley, Jonathan Bennett, Ana Ayora, Treat Williams, Sharon Lawrence, and Brad Harder

Phylis (Lawrence) and Bill (Williams) hope that having their two sons at home over the holidays will help them find a way to grow stronger as a family. While there, both sons reveal that they are also struggling with problems of their own.

Monday, November 23

Heart of the Holidays, starring Vanessa Lengies and Corey Sevier

When Sam (Lengies) returns home, she’s confronted with her past — her high school boyfriend, Noah (Sevier). As they take a walk down memory lane, they remember what’s really important in life.

Tuesday, November 24

A Christmas Tree Grows in Colorado, starring Rochelle Aytes and Mark Taylor

Firefighter Kevin (Taylor) is the only thing standing in Erin’s way of planning the best Christmas celebration ever. That means, it’s up to her to win him over to get a celebration-worthy spruce tree from his property.

Wednesday, November 25

Good Morning Christmas!, starring Alison Sweeney and Marc Blucas

When two TV hosts are forced to cozy up to the competition over the holidays, they learn that they have more in common than they thought.

Thursday, November 26

Christmas by Starlight, starring Kimberley Sustad and Paul Campbell

The days for The Starlight Café are numbered. That is, until Annie (Sustad) meets Williams (Campbell), who works for the development firm looking to demolish the restaurant. He proposes an out-of-the-box idea that forces Annie to consider how low she’s willing to go to save her family’s business.

Friday, November 27

Five Star Christmas, starring Bethany Joy Lenz and Victor Webster

Lisa (Lenz) is determined to secure a five-star rating for her dad’s bed & breakfast. But when she meets (and falls in love with) a mysterious B&B guest, she’s shocked to learn he’s the travel critic behind the review.

Saturday, November 28

Christmas Waltz, starring Lacey Chabert, Will Kemp, and JT Church

Avery (Chabert) turns to her dance instructor (Kemp) for guidance after the wedding of her dreams is unexpected cancelled.

Sunday, November 29

If I Only Had Christmas, starring Candace Cameron Bure and Warren Christie

A bright and cheery publicist (Bure) works with a scrooge-like business owner (Christie) and his team of The Wizards of Oz-inspired characters to help a good cause.

Saturday, December 5

Christmas in Evergreen: Bells Are Ringing, starring Holly Robinson Peete, Colin Lawrence, Rukiya Bernard, Antonio Cayonne, and Barbara Niven

Since Michelle (Peete) has plenty of wedding planning her plate, she leans on Hannah (Bernard) to wrap up the launch of the new Evergreen museum. All the while, she begins to question her own future — and if Elliot is really Mr.Right (Cayonne)

Sunday, December 6

Christmas She Wrote, starring Danica McKellar and Dylan Neal

Kayleigh (McKellar) is heartbroken to learn that her romance column is canceled right before the holidays. While home with her family, the person who canceled her column (Neal) shows up at her door to tie up loose ends.

Saturday, December 12

Cross Country Christmas, starring Rachael Leigh Cook and Greyson Holt

Lina (Cook) and Max (Holt) face the unexpected when a storm hits, potentially ruining their holiday plans. The two of them are forced to work together to figure out a way home — without taking it out on each other.

Sunday, December 13

Christmas Comes Twice, starring Tamera Mowry-Housley and Michael Xavier

By the looks of it, Emily (Mowry-Housley) has it all: She’s a well-respected newscaster, and loved by many. But in her eyes, she lost the thing that matters most — her first true love (Xavier). A ride on the carousel at the town’s Christmas carnival brings her back in time, giving her a second chance at the love and life she deserves.

Saturday, December 19

A Christmas Carousel, starring Rachel Boston and Neal Bledsoe

Lila (Boston) partners up with the Prince of Marcadia (Bledsoe) to repair the Royal Family’s carousel by Christmas.

Sunday, December 20

Love, Lights, and Hanukkah!, starring Mia Kirshner, Ben Savage, and Marilu Henner

In the height of the holiday craziness, Christina gets back a DNA test and learns that she’s actually Jewish. This leads her down a path of self-discovery, even finding romance along the way.

HALLMARK MOVIES & MYSTERIES 

Saturday, October 24

Christmas Tree Lane, starring Alicia Witt and Andrew Walker

Meg (Witt) is eager to save the Christmas Tree Lane shopping district from demolition, but things get complicated when she discovers that her new beau (Walker) is linked to the demolition-hungry developer.

Sunday, October 25

Deliver by Christmas, starring Alvina August and Eion Bailey

Molly (August) worries that she’s falling in love with two different men: Josh (Bailey), a widower who recently moved to town, and one of her clients. But what happens when she discovers that they’re actually the same guy?

Saturday, October 31

Cranberry Christmas, starring Nikki DeLoach and Benjamin Ayres

A separated couple plays pretend, using their “perfect marriage” to give their town’s Christmas festival a boost. Along the way, they question if rekindled love is possible, or something they should leave in the past.

Sunday, November 1

Holly & Ivy, starring Janel Parrish, Jeremy Jordan, and Marisol Nichols

Melody (Parrish) decides that the best way to help her terminally-ill neighbor is by adopting her children, Holly and Ivy. But first, she must transform her fixer-upper.

Saturday, November 7

The Christmas Ring, starring Nazneen Contractor and David Alpay

A reporter (Contractor) takes her latest story to heart: While telling the love story behind an antique engagement ring, she turns to the ring owner’s grandson to learn more about his family’s history.

Sunday, November 8

The Christmas Bow, starring Lucia Micarelli and Michael Rady

After an accident halts her dreams of being a professional violinist (Micarelli), she finds ways to heal her body and heart, leading her to an old friend (Rady).

Saturday, November 14

Meet Me at Christmas, starring Catherine Bell and Mark Deklin

Joan takes over the wedding planning duties for her son after his wedding planner quits. Then the bride’s uncle offers to pitch in, which causes the two to grow close.

Sunday, November 15

The Christmas Doctor, starring Holly Robinson Peete and Adrian Holmes

Just a week before Christmas, Dr. Alicia Wright (Peete) heads to an assignment far from home. There, she meets someone from her past who reveals some life-changing news.

Saturday, November 21

The Angel Tree, starring Jill Wagner and Lucas Bryant

A writer (Wagner) is determined to solve the town’s biggest holiday mystery: Who is the person granting all of the wishes on the angel tree? In the process, she reconnects with someone from her childhood (Bryant) who helps her find the answer.

Sunday, November 22

A Godwink Christmas: First Loves, Second Chances, starring Brooke D’Orsay and Sam Page

After returning home, Sam (Page) catches himself stuck in traffic next to his high school sweetheart, Margie (D’Orsay).

Saturday, November 28

USS Christmas, starring Jen Lilley, Trevor Donovan, and Barbara Niven

A local reporter (Lilley) sets sail on a Tiger Cruise over the holidays, where she befriends the naval officer (Donovan) and digs deep into a the ship’s past.

Saturday, December 5

A Little Christmas Charm, starring Ashley Greene and Brendan Penny

Holly (Greene) asks an investigative reporter (Penny) to help her track down the owner of a lost charm bracelet before Christmas Eve.

Sunday, December 6

Time for Us to Come Home for Christmas, starring Lacey Chabert and Stephen Huszar

Five people are randomly (or possibly, not so randomly) invited to celebrate Christmas at the local inn. Shortly after her arrival, Sarah (Chabert) learns that the guest list may help her — and everyone else, for that matter — learn more about their past.

Saturday, December 12

A Glenbrooke Christmas, starring Autumn Reeser and Antonio Cupo

Jessica (Reeser) knows this may be her last normal Christmas, so she escapes to a small town for peace and quiet. Things heat up as soon as she meets the town’s fireman (Cupo).

Sunday, December 13

Unlocking Christmas, starring Taylor Cole and Steve Lund

Kate (Cole) and Kevin (Lund) go on a wild goose chase to figure out who left the mysterious key and holiday riddle on their doorstep — and what it really means.

Saturday, December 19

Swept Up by Christmas, starring Lindy Booth and Justin Bruening

An antique seller and cleaner can’t agree on how prepare an over-the-top estate for the holiday season. They start at square one, uncovering the home’s hidden treasures … and secrets.

Sunday, December 20

Project Christmas Wish, starring Amanda Schull and Travis Van Winkle

Lucy plays Santa all season long, granting wishes and helping families prepare for the holiday. But one little girl’s wish leads her to discover a dream of her own.

With all the streaming services and TV channels, there are so many choices this holiday season. The above list is just a partial list of the offerings for viewers of all ages. Happy Holidays!
Francine Brokaw

‘The Nest’ stars Jude Law

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


Jude Law stars in The Nest, a film about ambition and lies. The movie was part of the 2020 Sundance Film Festival and is from award-winning director Sean Durkin.

Law stars as Rory O’Hara, a native Brit who moved to America to be with his wife Allison (Carrie Coon) and her daughter Samantha (Oona Roche). They have a son Ben (Charlie Shotwell) and live a very nice life. But Rory is anxious to do better. He is a conniving man who attempts to put together business deals that will make him plenty of money. To do this he acts the part of a wealthy high society gent.

He moves his family to a giant manor in Surrey England and enrolls the kids in the best schools. Rory and Allison attend posh dinner parties and he plays up his high society role, but soon Allison is tired of this role-playing and starts to wonder about her husband. As their money gets used up and their bills pile up, Allison discovers the truth about her husband.

The story takes place in the 1980s, and writer/director Durkin said, “Growing up between America and England in the 80’s and 90’s, I experienced a stark difference in atmosphere between the two places that has long stayed with me. I always felt the contrast would provide a haunting tonal shift in a film and this backdrop sparked the conception of The Nest. Within this setting I wanted reflect on personal experience to create an unsettling, naturalistic family drama that explores how a move across the Atlantic uproots the dormant truths that lie beneath this family’s dynamic.”

So, as Allison wonders if her marriage is based on truth or fantasy, Rory continues his ruse.

This is a slow-moving drama and – spoiler alert for people who are not comfortable with animal deaths – there is one in this story.  The Nest is rated R for language throughout, some sexuality, nudity and teen partying. It is definitely for adults only.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 25 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Los Angeles Press Club and the Television Critics Association.

Clint Eastwood in ‘The Eiger Sanction’

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


The 1975 thriller The Eiger Sanction is based on the best-selling novel by Rod Whitaker. While the movie is decades old, it stands the test of time.

Jonathan Hemlock (Eastwood) is an art professor who, in his spare time, is a paid assassin. He is given the option to accept a sanction for the killing on one of his friends. At first he is reluctant but accepts this “sanction” retribution killing. The name of the target is not known, however what is known is that this person will be among an international group of climbers set to climb the famous Eiger Mountain in Switzerland.

With the help of his friend Ben, (George Kennedy), Hemlock begins his training to get in shape for this treacherous climb, which he has tried and failed twice before. The scenery makes viewing a pleasure, as the picture was filmed on location in Zurich, Monument Valley, Zion National Park, and Carmel. And yes, the Eiger Mountain was used for filming as well.

Eastwood also directed the film and in one of the bonus features, Reiner Schone, who plays mountain climber Freytag, talks about filming the movie and Eastwood as a director. As many actors have stated in the past, Eastwood is an actor’s director. Schone said the director told him to play the part as he felt it should be played, but Schone knew he had a safety net with Eastwood at the helm. Schone also relates some interesting and fun stories, especially about finding mountain climbing boots in his size. He and the others were also told that they had a few days to prove they could act like professional mountain climbers, or they would be replaced. Well, all of them passed the test and the film resumed with the cast in place.

There is another bonus with a vintage 8-minute promotional reel that relates the story and the making of this classic film. Like many of his other films, Eastwood has some cute and funny lines, but at the heart of the movie is the intense story of one man looking for the killer of his friend while at the same time trying to stay alive climbing the dangerous North Face of the Eiger Mountain.

Watching the movie on Blu-ray brings out the crispness of the locations with the colors being more intense than a regular DVD. And with the score by John Williams, this is definitely a memorable film with an incredibly cast. The Eiger Sanction is rated R.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 25 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Los Angeles Press Club and the Television Critics Association.

‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ now on brilliant 4K

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

 

It’s that time of year again. It’s time for another release of the classic holiday film It’s a Wonderful Life. This 1946 black and white classic is an annual viewing experience for families across the country. It’s filled with love, humanity, and plenty of hope.

James Stewart stars as George Baily and Donna Reed is his girlfriend/wife. The story takes place in a small New England town where George is a popular man but due to circumstances beyond his control he faces a terrible crisis of conscience. He thinks his life is worthless and he is a disappointment to the town.

Then he meets Clarence (Henry Travers), and angel, who shows him what the lives of everyone around him would be like had George never been born. Through this journey to an alternative world, George discovers that he has made a great impact on people, even though at the time he never knew it. He discovers we are all interconnected and his life has had meaning.

The new edition comes in a collectable tin box with both a 4K and a colorized Blu-ray disc. Viewing the film in 4K is brighter and sharper than ever. Also included in this collectable set is a movie poster as well as some bonus features.

The bonus features include a fun look at the wrap party as well as a look at how the film was restored from the old version to the beautiful film we are able to view today. There is also a very interesting look at the making of the film. The story takes place in the winter at the holiday season. The movie was filmed in the summer in the San Fernando Valley in California. It was a heat wave so even though the characters were interacting in the cold, they were actually sweating under their costumes. Now that’s acting! The filmmakers also had to come up with ways to create the visuals. Instead of the usual colored cornflakes for snow, they used foam, which is widely used today. Because the director, Frank Capra, knew Stewart was best on his first take, and if they used corn flakes that crunched when walked upon requiring the actors to dub their lines in later, this new way was much better. Creating the sound of wind and a storm was also a task that had to be addressed. But they did it and did it well. The movie was nominated for 5 Academy Awards.

Gather your family and celebrate life and love with It’s a Wonderful Life. Ring those bells. After all, “Every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings.” The movie is rated PG for thematic elements, smoking and some violence.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 25 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Los Angeles Press Club and the Television Critics Association.

‘The Last Starfighter’ blasts onto Blu-ray

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


The 1984 movie The Last Starfighter is imaginative and captures the spirit of the time. Lance Guest, Dan O’Herlihy, Catherine Mary Stewart, and Robert Preston took this fun story to great heights.

This was a time before everyone had computers so arcades and video game machines were popular. Alex (Guest) is a top player of one game in particular and he manages to hit the record high score. He was able to make it all the way to the end where, as the player, he destroyed the evil starship. The entire trailer park where he and his family live cheers him on.

After this triumphant accomplishment, Alex is visited by a man named Centauri (Preston). Centauri developed the game to find candidates to be real starfighters in another galaxy that is on the verge of being attacked by the evil Xur. Well, one thing leads to another and off they go to the planet Rylos where Alex is about to join the starfighting team. But what Centauri does not know is that Alex does not want any part of this war. After all, he only played a video game so why does that qualify him to be a real starfighter?

Centauri agrees to return Alex to earth where he meets a “beta unit” that has taken his place while he is away fighting Xur. When he learns that his family is in danger and he will always be in danger as long as Xur is alive, he agrees to return to Rylos and join the team. But in the meantime Xur has wiped out the station with all of the starfighters. There is only one left in the universe – Alex Rogan. He and his pilot Grig (O’Herlihy) end up taking on the entire armada.

For a bored young man from a trailer park in the middle of nowhere, this is a big change. And he has always wanted to do something important with his life. He finally got his wish.

This movie came along seven years after the original Star Wars. Unlike that famous film, this one has plenty of heart and is extremely clever, having been written around a video game machine. There are plenty of wonderful new bonus features that will add a new understanding about the film for viewers.

In the film there is a brief reference to the sword in the stone and King Arthur. Writer Jonathan Betuel explained that he was reading the book “The Once and Future King” at the time he wandered into a store and saw the enthusiasm of gamers. This sparked the idea of making a story in the same vane. Whereas Arthur was the only one to pull the sword from the stone and then go on to lead his country, Alex was the only one to completely finish the game and then go on to save the universe.

Guest and Masterson guide viewers through their experiences making the movie. There is an interesting feature with Craig Safan who created the wonderful score. He knew the story required a large orchestra, and this soundtrack really does make the movie. Several other bonus features are included in this new edition. And inside the box is a movie poster as well as a nice booklet to accompany the film.

The Last Starfighter is rated PG. For a new direction in space wars, check out this fun movie.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 25 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Los Angeles Press Club and the Television Critics Association.

‘Friendsgiving’ now on Blu-ray and DVD

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

Malin Akerman and Kat Dennings head a large cast in Friendsgiving, a story of life, love, and family.  The film takes place on one day, Thanksgiving (pre Covid 19) when a group of friends gather together to spend the day.

Thanksgiving is a holiday usually spent with families when they gather together to celebrate each other and give thanks for all they have. We all know we can choose our friends but not our family, and sometimes people cannot be with their families on the holiday. So we have our own family of our close friends. And with those friends we can have our own “Friendsgiving.”

The two best friends, Molly and Abby (Akerman and Dennings) were planning on spending the day together, just the two of them. Molly is going through a divorce and Abby is reeling from a breakup. So they decided to commiserate together. But things get out of hand and Molly’s new boyfriend Jeff (Jack Donnelly) becomes part of the group, joined by Molly’s mother Helen (Jane Seymour), Molly’s former boyfriend, and Molly’s friend Lauren (Aisha Tyler) and her family, as well as several other friends. What was to be a quiet Thanksgiving with just the two best friends (and Molly’s baby) turns into a big wingding with plenty of food, drinks, and even a photo booth.

Every one of the characters is going through some personal dilemma. This is a strange group to say the least. Then mix in a mother who wants to be a swinging friend and not a parent, a lot of alcohol, some drugs, sexual situations, and unusual relationships and you have this story.

The bonus feature is a “making of” in which the story is discussed as both writer/director Nicole Paone and actor (and former roommate of Paone) Akerman talk about how some of the storylines are from personal experiences and others from experiences from their own friends. Put a bunch of crazy characters with plenty of turmoil into one day and this is what it looks like. Some scenes are like sketches from Saturday Night Live, while other are just chaotic and some are simply tedious.

This is not a movie for the entire family due to the subject matters involved. Friendsgiving is rated R for crude sexual content and language throughout, as for drug use. Emphasis is on the “crude.”

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 25 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Los Angeles Press Club and the Television Critics Association.

Raycop Go – Product Review

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

The Raycop GO is a unique product that, especially in these trying times, is useful and makes life a little less stressful. It is a portable UV+ cordless vacuum that sanitizes and is lightweight so it’s easy to use.

This unit utilizes the RayClean Technology that is similar to what is used in hospitals. With the pulsating brushes it picks up dust mites and all those pesky little germs that cause havoc with people. And allergy sufferers, like myself, will be able to breathe easier because of the HEPA filtration.

Removing bacteria and viruses is something people are thinking about during this time of Covid 19. Making the space around you healthier is what Raycop is all about, and with this small unit, you can make your environment healthier and cleaner wherever you go.

I recently had to take a trip and stayed in two different hotel rooms. While one of them was filled with signs that the bed and the bathroom as well as the TV remote was sanitized, the other just had one sign saying the room was sanitized. I thought about all the areas in the room that might not have been sanitized. For instance, what about the chairs and the couch? If I had had the Raycop GO with me, I would have definitely sanitized those seating areas and even given the bed a once-over, although the hotel was insistent they had sanitized it.

Think about sanitizing cribs, car seats, high chairs and other areas where babies play and eat. And kids rooms are a great place to use the unit, not to mention cars. We all spend a lot of time in our cars, but how often do we sanitize them?

As an allergy sufferer, I am especially concerned about dust and other allergens. I have been using other Raycop products and highly recommend them. I trust the company and the products. And now with this portable unit I will definitely feel more comfortable when I travel. Trust me, I will not be traveling without this product.

The Raycop GO weighs only 1.82 pounds and easily disassembles to fit nicely in a carry-on or suitcase. It takes three hours to charge the battery cell and can run up to 30 minutes on a charge. With the washable filters, there is no need to keep buying more filters for the unit. By simply cleaning the vacuum and filter in water, all the dust is washed away and the vacuum is ready to be used again.

One more way in which this unit is helpful in keeping families safe from germs and bacteria is by using it on toys. We all know stuffed animals are notorious for collecting dust and germs. With the Raycop Go they can easily be disinfected without any harmful chemicals. It’s that simple.

So, the bottom line is with the HEPA filter, washable filter, UV technology, portability, and the reliability of the company, I can honestly recommend the Raycop GO. Viruses, allergens, dust mites, bacteria and dust are easily tackled with this product, and the fact that I can easily pack it in my carryon is the icing on the cake. Now, if they only made cake, I would buy the company!

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, books, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. Follow her on Twitter.