Friday, December 27, 2013

Lovelace (2013)

Released August 9th in the US.
Filmed entirely in California.
The story : Linda Boreman is a young lady just living day to day , hanging out with her best girlfriend and living with her parents.
One evening while out with her gal pal Patsy , the two meet the guy Linda will end up having a relationship with - Chuck.
When she gets in trouble one evening for staying out too late with her new beau , she ends up moving out of the rents home and in with the lover.
After not too long , Linda and Chuck are married.
Although Linda trusts and loves Chuck , he isn't a very good guy for her.
After getting Linda into the porn industry , Chuck ends up pushing Linda beyond limits she never even knew she had.
Stars Amanda Seyfried , Juno Temple , Sharon Stone , Robert Patrick , Peter Sarsgaard , Chris Noth , Bobby Cannavale ,
Hank Azaria , Adam Brody , Chloƫ Sevigny , James Franco , Debi Mazar , Wes Bentley , Eric Roberts , Ron Pritchard , Cory Hardrict , LisaGay Hamilton
Directed by Rob Epstein & Jeffrey Friedman
Rated R
BIOGRAPHY/DRAMA

Ain't in It for My Health : A Film About Levon Helm (2010)

Released April 19 , 2013 in the US.
The story : Levon Helm is a founding member of the rock group The Band.
Here we get to learn about his background and how he got started in the music business.
What his career has done for him over the years and the experiences he's had.
We meet his wife , daughter , ex as well as some very good friends that like to come to his studio , make music with him and put on the Midnight Rambles shows at his home in Woodstock , New York.
Stars Levon Helm , Amy Helm , Libby Titus , Sandra Dodd , Larry Campbell , Billy Bob Thornton , Chris Robinson
Directed by Jacob Hatley
Not Rated
DOCUMENTARY/BIOGRAPHY


"Mark Lavon "Levon" Helm
1940 – 2012
"

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

The King of Queens : Net Prophets (1999)

Made for CBS, airing December 13th in the US.
Season 2, Episode 12.
The story: This year Doug's boss gave him a pretty hefty Christmas bonus.
Carrie is just as excited as Doug about it, although he wants to play it safe and put it in the bank.
Carrie was thinking more along the lines of investing it in some high-risk stock.
She talks him into it but it drives them both crazy when the stock fluctuates.
Stars Kevin James, Leah Remini, Jerry Stiller
Directed by Rob Schiller
Not Rated
COMEDY/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

Monday, December 23, 2013

Everybody Loves Raymond : The Christmas Picture (1999)

Made for CBS, airing December 13th in the US.
Season 4. Episode 11.
The story: This year Raymond would like to give his mother a gift that she really wants instead of the gifts they have given her in the past that haven't exactly been the best ideas.
After snooping for ideas, Raymond finally decides that his mother would like a family portrait.
Although he doesn't know that Debra asked her parents to be in the picture as well.
This doesn't exactly sit well with Marie.
Stars Brad Garrett, Patricia Heaton, Ray Romano, Doris Roberts, Peter Boyle, Lew Schneider, Madylin Sweeten, Sawyer Sweeten, Sullivan Sweeten, Katherine Helmond, Robert Culp
Directed by Will Mackenzie
Not Rated
COMEDY/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

"They'll still have faces at ten."

Sunday, December 22, 2013

Cheers : Love Me , Love My Car (1992)


Made for NBC, airing December 17th in the US.
Season 11. Episode 11.
The story: Woody's parents sent him a small, live pig for his Christmas dinner. When Rebecca sees the pig she instantly falls in love with it.
Rebecca believes the pig would make the best pet, as she has even litter box trained it. Her plan is to set it free so it won't become dinner.
The widow of the man who now owns Sam's Corvette shows up looking to get some information about the car.
When Sam finds out the man has passed away, he instantly wants to buy his car back.
Stars Ted Danson , Philip Perlman , Kelsey Grammer , Woody Harrelson , Kirstie Alley , Rhea Perlman , John Ratzenberger , George Wendt , Dana Delany
Directed by James Burrows
Not Rated
COMEDY

"Sammy, we're running low on pretzels."

"Oh no Miss Howe, I set them all free to live in the wild."

Wings : Happy Holidays (1993)

Made for CBS, airing December 16th in the US.
Season 5. Episode 11.
The story: Fay is in charge of putting on a Christmas party for the less fortunate kids at the Christmas center this year.
Helen and Joe are to help her but that isn't going as well as Fay would like.
Lowell is going to be the Santa and, seeing how Antonio can't find anyone to spend Christmas with he decides he will act in the role of Santa's elf.
But just the night before, Antonio slept with Lowell's ex and that's not gonna end nicely.
Brian has planned to go away to Vermont with his sweetie Alex. But when her mother makes her feel bad that she will be the only member of the family not home, she talks Brian into going home with her instead.
But Brian wants to bail after he finds out he has to play Tiny Tim in the family play of a Christmas Carol Alex's family puts on every year for her dad.
Stars Rebecca Schull , David Schramm , Crystal Bernard , Tim Daly , Tony Shalhoub , Thomas Haden Church , Laura Innes , Farrah Forke , Steven Weber , Nicholas LaCasale , Michael Bacall
Directed by Andy Ackerman
Not Rated
COMEDY/DRAMA/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

Malcolm in the Middle : Christmas (2001)


Made for Fox, airing December 16th in the US.
Season 3. Episode 7.
The story: Every year, Lois gets a little crazy around Christmas.
It doesn't help matters that Dewey, Reese, and Malcolm always find a way to trash the place.
While Lois is out shopping, the boys begin a glass ornament fight.
When she arrives home, they are still smashing the ornaments all over the room.
This really pushes her over the edge.
Stars Frankie Muniz , Bryan Cranston , Jane Kaczmarek , Christopher Masterson , Justin Berfield , Erik Per Sullivan , Cloris Leachman , Cody Estes , Dillon John , Matthew Dunn
Directed by Jeff Melman
Not Rated
COMEDY/FAMILY/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

"She's stealing Christmas!!!"

Family Affair : Christmas Came a Little Early (1968)

Made for CBS, airing November 11th in the US.
Season 3. Episode 7.
The story: Buffy brings school work to a girl from her class named Eve. Eve has never been in the classroom before with Buffy, as she is very sickly and is unable to stay out of bed for long periods of time.
Buffy and Eve become friends and Buffy likes to spend much time over at Eve's house.
When Buffy's uncle lets everyone at the house know that they will have to celebrate Christmas early this year if they want to spend Christmas with him at all, Buffy comes up with the idea for them all to have Christmas over at Eve's house.
Stars Anissa Jones, Eve Plumb, Johnny Whitaker, Kathy Garver, Brian Keith, Sebastian Cabot, Joan Vohs, Ann McCrea, Ivan Bonar, Paul Sorensen
Directed by Charles Barton
Not Rated
FAMILY/DRAMA/COMEDY/CHRISTMAS

"Neato Bosso."

That 70's Show : Hyde's Christmas Rager (2000)

Made for Fox, airing December 19th in the US.
Season 3. Episode 9.
The story: Hyde has recently moved out of Foreman's house and in with his single dad at his bachelor pad.
All Hyde's friends think his new place is a great place to party.
Before they begin partying, Kitty comes by for a visit to see how Hyde is doing and she's concerned about the looks of things.
But Eric talks her into leaving.
So, then they party constantly.
Until Foreman gets trashed playing quarters, which makes Kitty crazy and that makes Red angry.
Stars Topher Grace , Ashton Kutcher , Danny Masterson , Wilmer Valderrama , Robert Hays , Mila Kunis , Laura Prepon , Debra Jo Rupp , Kurtwood Smith , Matt Battaglia , Lisa Robin Kelly
Directed by David Trainer
Not Rated
COMEDY/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

Everybody Loves Raymond : All I Want For Christmas (1997)

Made for CBS, airing December 15th in the US.
Season 2. Episode 12.
The story: It's the busy Christmas season.
Debra and Raymond are having issues with finding the time to be intimate.
On top of the fact that every time Debra thinks she may be in the mood, Raymond ruins it for her.
He really can't understand what he's doing wrong.
Stars Patricia Heaton, Ray Romano, Christine Cavanaugh, Andy Kindler, Madylin Sweeten, Sawyer Sweeten, Sullivan Sweeten, Doris Roberts, Peter Boyle, Brad Garrett
Directed by Jeff Meyer
Not Rated
COMEDY/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

"You made me wear this stupid sweater and Raymond's not even wearing pants!?"

Saturday, December 21, 2013

Coach : Christmas Brains (1990)

Made for ABC, airing December 18th in the US.
Season 3. Episode 12.
The story: It is Christmas Eve. Hayden is a bit depressed about spending Christmas alone and without Christine.
They broke up a while ago because he didn't ask her to marry him.
So, after leaving her a message on her machine, he starts to accept the situation.
Just then, his daughter and son-in-law show up, claiming they cannot stand the thought of him being alone for Christmas and they are there to stay.
Also, son-in-law's parents are shortly behind them as well as Hayden's ex-wife.
After some time of everyone trying to rustle up as much Christmas cheer as they can without anyone puking, Hayden can't take it anymore.
A sympathetic talk with his ex-wife starts to make him feel better about things.
Stars Craig T. Nelson, Jerry Van Dyke, Pam Stone, Charlotte Stewart, James Staley, Jack Lightsy , Clare Carey, Bill Fagerbakke, Kris Kamm, Shelley Fabares, Lenore Kasdorf, (voice) Nick Toth
Directed by Alan Rafkin
Not Rated
COMEDY

Twilight Zone : The Night of the Meek (1960)

Made for CBS, airing December 23rd in the US.
Season 2. Episode 11.
The story: Henry Corwin is the Santa this year at the local department store.
He took a break at 4pm and was to return back at 6pm.
By 6:30, Mr. Corwin is just finishing up his last drink at the local pub, dreading the thought of going back to the store.
When he finally does get back, he gets in trouble for being late but is told to get back to his station.
Then, he falls down drunk in front of everyone and shortly after is fired.
He makes a noble speech about how people's concepts of Christmas just aren't right anymore and wanting a special Christmas time for the poor to his now ex-employer and goes on his way.
Walking outside to the street he finds a sack of gifts which without any delay he takes on over to the church. But the church lady believes he has stolen the gifts and calls in the police.
Stars Art Carney , Val Avery , John Fiedler , Kay Cousins Johnson , Meg Wyllie , Burt Mustin
Directed by Jack Smight
Not Rated
B&W
MYSTERY/FANTASY/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

The Forgotten Toys (1995)


Made for TV , airing December 21 , 2013 in the US.
The story : Teddy finds himself in the trash barrel outside of his home. He continuously yells for his children to come and get him , as he is right outside.
Soon , he meets Annie the doll who happens to also be in the trash a few barrels down from Teddy.
Annie tells Teddy that his yelling is no use , that his children have thrown him in the trash deliberately.
Teddy cannot understand why his children would do that and cannot accept that as the truth.
The two almost get taken to the dump but they save themselves just in time.
As they walk on through the night , they happen upon a store front with a tv showing commercials for new toys.
Annie explains to Teddy that the reason they were thrown away is because of the new toys.
Teddy believes that he and Annie can once again find children who want and love them.
Stars (voices by) Bob Hoskins , Joanna Lumley , Shelley Thompson , Bob Sessions , Andrew Sachs , Kate Sachs
Directed by Graham Ralph
Not Rated
ANIMATION/FAMILY

"It's only a good present if you love the person you give it to."

The Lone Ranger : Christmas Story (1956)

Made for ABC, airing December 20th in the US.
Season 5. Episode 15.
The story: While in the hills to chop down a Christmas tree, young Robby is close to being mauled by a cougar. The Lone Ranger and Tonto come to Robby's rescue.
Robby brings the men home to meet his mom.
He tells them how he really wants his pa home for Christmas.
His pa has been gone for six months now.
Robby and his mom really don't think he'll return. He has gold fever you know...
They have no idea where he is.
The Lone Ranger vows to take Tonto and make the effort of finding Robby's pa and bringing him back home for Christmas.
Stars Jimmy Baird, Clayton Moore, Jay Silverheels, Aline Towne, Robert Burton, Mary Newton, William Henry, Gregg Barton, Lane Bradford, Terry Frost
Directed by Earl Bellamy
Not Rated
FAMILY/DRAMA/ADVENTURE/WESTERN/SERIES/CHRISTMAS



"Well, doggone."

Lassie : The Little Christmas Tree (1964)

Made for CBS, airing December 20th in the US.
Season 11. Episode 15.
The story: All day the local kids collected many Christmas trees to give to the less fortunate at the church.
Later that evening, one of the girls finds that all the trees have disappeared!
Everyone is very sad about this tragedy.
It's Christmas eve and its snowing up in the mountain where they got the trees so getting more is out of the question.
The police are called in to see if they can do some investigating and find out who took all those trees.
Meanwhile, Lassie is looking to save the day. She sure does know a crook when she sees one.
Stars Ted Eccles , Lassie the dog , Robert Bray , Joanna Dix , Richard Correll , Allan Hunt , Joan Tompkins , Robert Random
Directed by William Beaudine
Not Rated
B&W
FAMILY/DRAMA/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

"Oh, what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh...Hey!"

Lassie : The Christmas Story (1960)

Made for CBS, airing December 25th in the US.
Season 5. Episode 16.
The story: When Timmy is out in town buying candy, he meets some kids his age - Alice and Bobby.
He walks home with them and finds out that they are living in an old tool shed while their dad tries to fix their car so they can relocate.
Timmy tells his mom all about them and she believes to be neighborly is the right thing to do.
She brings the family a care package, but the childrens' dad turns her down, saying they do not take charity.
Timmy later gets the idea to send Lassie over to the family with a gift package. Their father allows them to keep it this time.
Bobby goes to see Timmy and makes him promise not to tell anyone about his family.
He promises although he doesn't understand why.
Timmy comes up with the idea that he will be Santa Claus on the street in town to collect donations for his new friends.
Stars Jon Provost , Lassie the dog , Jennie Lynn , Bob Folkerson , June Lockhart , Jimmy Lydon , Hugh Reilly , Robert Foulk
Directed by Jack B. Hively
Not Rated
B&W
FAMILY/DRAMA/SERIES/CHRISTMAS


I'm telling you, there really isn't much Lassie can't do. She even helps decorate the Christmas tree.

Laverne & Shirley : Oh Hear the Angel's Voices (1976)

Made for ABC, airing December 21st in the US.
Season 2. Episode 10.
The story: Laverne, Shirley, Edna, Frank, Lenny & Squiggy are all gathered at Shotz. Carmine arrives and asks them all if they wouldn't mind doing a Christmas show for the less fortunate. The kids from his dance studio are all busy with other things going on. Carmine finally talks them all into helping out.
The night they arrive for the show, they find out they will be performing at a psychiatric hospital.
This frightens Shirley and so she continuously tries to run away before her performance.
Stars Phil Foster , Penny Marshall , Cindy Williams , Betty Garrett , Michael McKean , David L. Lander , Eddie Mekka , Roger Garrett , Howard Hesseman , David W. Duclon , Garry Marshall
Directed by Howard Storm
Not Rated
COMEDY/FAMILY/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

Friday, December 20, 2013

Movin' On : Goin' Home pt 2 (1974)

Made for NBC, airing December 19th in the US.
Season 1. Episode 13.
The story: While Dinah and Sonny are hanging around her house, her ex shows up with rage in his eyes.
He wants the necklace she stole back.
Sonny has no idea about the necklace but he knows he doesn't want any more trouble with that guy.
Dinah pretends she has no idea what he is talking about and he finally leaves.
Sonny wants to know what's going on.
Dinah tells him she stole the necklace just to get back at her ex for dumping her right before Christmas.
Then she tells him, that she dropped the necklace in a goodwill box.
Ha, now they better find that necklace or it's gonna be curtains for them all.
Stars Claude Akins , Frank Converse , Sheree North , John Vernon , Jamie Smith-Jackson , Will Hutchins , Woodrow Parfrey , Joyce Jameson , Jerell O. Malone , Eddie Little Sky
Directed by Paul Stanley
Not Rated
DRAMA/SERIES/CHRISTMAS


"Christmas. Baaaaah humbug."

Movin' On : Goin' Home pt1 (1974)


Made for NBC, airing December 12th in the US.
Season 1. Episode 12.
The story: Sonny and Will are just off work for the holidays.
Will would really like to have a home-cooked meal this year instead of the typical diner food that they usually eat on the road.
Sonny tells Will that if they travel to Arizona, they can stopover at his aunt and uncles for dinner.
But when they get there, they find out the relatives went to Las Vegas for their holiday.
While in town, they visit Sonnys ex Dinah and she invites them to dinner.
But what Sonny doesn't know is that Dinah just got dumped by her boyfriend of 3 years.
Sonny accepts Dinah's invitation due to not letting Will down.
And Dinah gets Sonny and Will involved in her personal life, when she confronts her ex-boyfriend and steals a very expensive necklace.
Stars Claude Akins , Frank Converse , Jerell O. Malone , Woodrow Parfrey , Sheree North , John Vernon , Will Hutchins , Jamie Smith-Jackson
Directed by Paul Stanley
Not Rated
DRAMA/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

Silver Spoons : The Best Christmas Ever (1982)

Made for NBC, airing December 18th in the US.
Season 1. Episode 13.
The story: It's Christmas eve and everyone is excited. Kate has been decorating all day.
Ricky can't wait to spend his first Christmas with his dad.
A little boy who lives nearby comes to the door, asking if Ricky has any jobs for him to do to earn a dollar to buy his mom a Christmas gift.
Ricky notices that the little boy is very hungry and that his jacket has holes in it.
So Ricky gives him the job of putting a single ornament on the Christmas tree and gives him the twenty dollars he had just gotten from his grandfather.
The little boy is overly excited about the money but soon after he has gone he returns, sneaking inside the house this time.
He leaves the money Ricky had given him and takes a big basket of food that Ricky's grandfather had sent instead.
Ricky sees this and decides to follow the little boy as he sneaks off with the basket.
Stars Ricky Schroder , Erin Gray , Joseph Lawrence , Leonard Lightfoot , Joel Higgins , Rick Lenz , D.J. Sydney
Directed by Jack Shea
Not Rated
FAMILY/COMEDY/DRAMA/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

The King Of Queens : Noel Coward's (1998)

Made for CBS, airing December 14th in the US.
Season 1. Episode 11.
The story: Doug, Arthur, and Carrie get stuck on the freeway when the car breaks down on their way home after getting their Christmas tree.
They end up having to walk eight blocks to get home. Doug's screwdriver wasn't in the car because Arthur took it out, that didn't go well.
Then they find out it's gonna cost them to get the car fixed and that the transmission may be on its way out.
So, Doug and Carrie consider getting a new car, even though they were trying to wait.
The car Doug wants is out of their price range by far.
So Arthur surprises them with a new car.
Stars Kevin James , Jerry Stiller , Leah Remini , James M. Connor , Larry Romano
Directed by Rob Schiller
Not Rated
COMEDY/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

"Oh, I see we're having sarcasm for Christmas this year."

Thursday, December 19, 2013

Good Times : Penny's Christmas (1977)


Made for CBS, airing December 21st in the US.
Season 5. Episode 12.
The story: It's almost time for the Evans' Christmas eve party and Penny is very excited.
She is going shopping with her momma and she is eager to get her a special gift.
At the department store, Willona allows Penny to shop alone.
While shopping, Penny finds the perfect gift.
But when she reaches in her bag for her cash, it's gone.
Stars BernNadette Stanis , Ralph Carter, Janet Jackson, Jimmie Walker, Ja'net DuBois, Johnny Brown, Dap Sugar Willie, Helen Verbit, Alice Ghostley, George Ranito Jordan
Directed by Gerren Keith
Not Rated
COMEDY/CHRISTMAS

"Just what I always wanted. A Betsy Wetsy doll with icicle in her draws."

Everybody Loves Raymond : The Ball (1996)

Made for CBS, airing December 20th in the US.
Season 1. Episode 12.
The story: Debra is getting ready for a charity drive for the needy at church, taking donations from friends and family as well as from home.
Raymond finds his autographed Mickey Mantel ball in with the donation stuff that his dad had gotten for him when he was little. He cannot believe she was going to give it away.
When a friend comes by and Raymond shows him this signed baseball, his friend tells him the signature may not be real.
Now Raymond's worried and stressing that the signature isn't legit, claiming the whole reason for his career as a sports writer is based on it.
Stars Ray Romano, Patricia Heaton, Sawyer Sweeten, Sullivan Sweeten, Brad Garrett, Andy Kindler, Peter Boyle, Doris Roberts, Madylin Sweeten
Directed by Jeff Meyer
Not Rated
COMEDY/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

"We're just gonna be Santa's helpers because he has so much to carry this year and, - he's ...out of shape."

Bewitched : A Vision Of Sugarplums (1964)


Made for ABC, airing December 24th, 1964 and December 23rd, 1965 in the US.
Season 1. Episode 15. And Season 2. Episode 15.
The story: Samantha and Darrin have the good intentions of taking a child home with them from the local orphanage to spend a special Christmas as a family.
As soon as they meet the child they are to bring home, they find out he is known as sort of a problem child.
Being adopted twice and returned, on top of picking a fight during the Christmas adoption event over another child believing in Santa Claus.
Samantha believes taking the child home with them is just what he needs. *winkwink*
Stars Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick York, Alice Pearce, Kevin Tate, Bill Mumy, Sara Seegar, Gerry Johnson, Cecil Kellaway, Bill Daily
Directed by Alan Rafkin
Not Rated
FAMILY/COMEDY/FANTASY/CHRISTMAS


"But what difference does it make how we look on the outside? It's what we feel, on the inside that counts, isn't it? We all grow older, and our eyes get weaker. But what we've seen with our hearts, remains forever a thing of joy and beauty."

Wednesday, December 18, 2013

The Bill Cosby Show : A Christmas Ballad (1969)

Made for NBC, airing December 21st in the US.
Season 1. Episode 13.
The story: Chet played the role of Santa Claus last year at the community center for all the children.
But this year he has a big date and is insistent that he is not playing Santa.
The only thing he is willing to do is to get the kids a Christmas tree to decorate.
While doing that, the man who honestly sells him the tree gets fired for selling him the tree due to an unfair customer complaining to his boss.
Then the Santa that the community center has lined up cancels, the only other person they have left is Chet.
Still Chet protests, but comes up with the idea to ask the man who he got fired if he would like to play Santa for a price.
Stars Bill Cosby, San Christopher, Rex Ingram, Reginald Fenderson, Richard Collier, Jan Crawford, Miyoshi Williams
Directed by Ralph Senensky
Not Rated
COMEDY/DRAMA/FAMILY/CHRISTMAS

Double Trouble : O Come All Ye Faithful (1984)

Made for NBC, airing December 22nd in the US.
Season 2. Episode 4.
The story: It's snowing like crazy in New York City.
Allison gets to class and hears on the radio that the snow isn't going to let up and that it's going to be a white Christmas.
That means Kate and Allison won't be going back to Iowa to spend Christmas with their dad as they had planned.
When Ally gets home from school she tells Kate the bad news about their trip.
Kate talks Allison into not worrying about it and that they will have a nice holiday with their aunt Margo.
But then aunt Margo has the girls worried when she tells them what she usually does for her holidays.
When aunt Margo sees how upset the girls are about how she usually spends her Christmas, they make plans to make the holiday more festive.
Stars Liz Sagal, Anne-Marie Johnson, Michael D. Roberts, Jean Sagal, James Vallely, Jonathan Schmock, Barbara Barrie
Directed by John Pasquin
Not Rated
COMEDY/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Newhart : No Room at the Inn (1982)

Made for CBS, airing December 20th in the US.
Season 1. Episode 9.
The story: It's Christmas Eve. Joanna and Leslie are busy making Christmas cookies.
Joanna is very excited about spending an old-fashioned Christmas in Vermont.
Leslie is excited about going home to be with her family for the holiday and the inn will be packed full of guests with the Silver Birds ski club arriving soon.
No one planned for the weather though.
It's really snowing outside.
Soon, Leslie finds out the airports are closed so she cannot go home.
Then the ski club gets word that the weather is too bad for skiing.
Everyone is pretty depressed now and there isn't even room for Leslie to stay.
Then, a couple with a child rushes in looking for a place to stay and be out of the storm.
Stars Mary Frann , Jennifer Holmes , Steven Kampmann , Bob Newhart , Tom Poston , Milt Oberman , Kres Mersky , Bob Perlow , Terence McGovern , Kate Zentall , Vahan Moosekian
Directed by Dick Martin
Not Rated
COMEDY/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

Ziggy's Gift (1982)


Made for TV, airing December 1st in the US.
The story: It's the last shopping day in Toyland and the news has reported the street-corner Santas' as being more fraudulent than not.
At the very same time, Ziggy sees an ad in the newspaper for Santas. He jumps right to it.
Ziggy gets the Santa job without any delay. His new employer directs him to collect Christmas money and bring it back to him.
While out in the streets collecting money when he can, Ziggy helps a freezing cold kitty. Then he buys up all the live turkeys the meat mart is selling for Xmas dinners with the money he had collected.
Ziggy sets all the turkeys free out into the snowy night.
He continues on through the night helping those in need and bringing cheer wherever he goes.
Stars (voices by)John Gibbons , Natasha Tabori Fried , Tom McGreevey , Gloria Grace Prosper , Perry Botkin Jr. , David Arias , Katrina Fried , Tony Giorgio , Jack Hanrahan , Linda Harmon , Anna Ostelson , Latoya Prescod , Andy Raus , Terry Stillwell-Harriton , Lena Tabori
Directed by Richard Williams
Not Rated
ANIMATION/FAMILY/CHRISTMAS

Cheers : Christmas Cheers (1987)


Made for NBC, airing December 17th in the US.
Season 5. Episode 12.
The story: Rebecca went to the company Christmas party which was less than exciting.
While she was there she got the schedule done. She scheduled everyone to work on Christmas eve...against their wishes of course.
Sam decides that he, Carla, and Woody exchange their presents while they wait to close.
Carla and Woody got Rebecca a gift, but Sam didn't get her one.
Woody lets him know that Rebecca got all of them each a gift, now Sam is really worried.
And to make matters worse, just when the gang thinks they will be able to close up and go home right after their last patron finishes up, a group of party people show up.
Stars Ted Danson, Rhea Perlman, Woody Harrelson, George Wendt, Kirstie Alley, John Ratzenberger, Kelsey Grammer, Bebe Neuwirth, Vincent Lucchesi, Al Rosen, Michael Donovan O'Donnell, Jayne Modean , Harry Frazier, Hal Havins, Joseph V. Perry
Directed by James Burrows & Thomas Lofaro
Not Rated
COMEDY/DRAMA/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

"It's a Christmas tradition, Sam. It's called 'kissing up'."

All In The Family : Edith's Christmas Story (1973)

Made for CBS, airing December 22nd in the US.
Season 4. Episode 15.
The story: It's Christmas time. Edith has been to the doctor for a semi-annual check-up.
When she gets home she says everything went fine, even though she's acting a bit strange.
While Gloria helps Edith in the kitchen, Edith finally lets Gloria know what's been on her mind.
It seems the doctor has found a lump in her breast.
Edith is very worried but she doesn't want Archie to know, especially seeing how she doesn't know how serious it is yet.
Stars Sally Struthers, Rob Reiner, Vincent Gardenia, Carroll O'Connor, Betty Garrett, Scottie MacGregor
Directed by John Rich
Not Rated
COMEDY/DRAMA/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

"You better start mixing your toothpaste with your shampoo. You're getting a cavity in your brain."

Married With Children : It's A Bundyful Life part 2 (1989)

Made for Fox, airing December 17th in the US.
Season 4. Episode 12.
The story: It's Christmas day and the family is eagerly awaiting Al's arrival home from work with Christmas gifts for all of them like he promised.
When Al gets home, he has to break the bad news to his family.
The family leaves Al at home alone while they go to Denny's for their annual Christmas dinner.
While the family is gone, Al decides to work on the Christmas lights.
While doing so, he shocks himself into unconsciousness....enter - Al's guardian angel.
Stars Katey Sagal , Christina Applegate , David Faustino , Ed O'Neill , Buck the dog , Amanda Bearse , Sam Kinison , Ted McGinley
Directed by Gerry Cohen
Not Rated
COMEDY/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

"College!? She flunked lunch in high school."

Married With Children : It's A Bundyful Life part 1 (1989)

Made for Fox, December 17th in the US.
Season 4. Episode 11.
The story: It's almost Christmas at the Bundy house. No one is exactly thrilled, as no one in the house usually gets any gifts worth a shit...
When Al arrives home from another grueling workday at the shoe store slinging shoes, he has some fantastic news.
Al lets the family in on a plan he had at the beginning of last year.
He joined the Christmas club, and through it he has accumulated quite a good amount of cash so he can actually buy gifts for his family this year.
Everyone is very excited about that.
Only problem is, Al didn't get to cash his Christmas club check before the bank closed for the holiday.
Stars Katey Sagal , Christina Applegate , David Faustino , Buck the dog , Ed O'Neill , Amanda Bearse , David Garrison , Ann Nelson , (voice) Lynne Lerner , Don Sparks
Directed by Gerry Cohen
Not Rated
COMEDY/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

Barney Miller : Christmas Story (1976)

Made for ABC, airing December 23rd in the US.
Season 3. Episode 10.
The story: It's Christmas eve and there is plenty of work to keep the guys busy.
There have been quite a few muggings, a disgruntled Christmas shopper, gifts being exchanged, decorating of a blue Christmas tree, and a date with a woman who reported being mugged. Oh, and it's snowing out!
Stars Hal Linden, Nobu McCarthy, Jack Soo, Ron Glass, Abe Vigoda, Max Gail, Jay Gerber, James Gregory
Directed by Bruce Bilson
Not Rated
COMEDY/DRAMA/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

The Wonder Years : Christmas (1988)

Made for ABC,  airing December 14th in the US.
Season 2. Episode 3.
The story: While out shopping with mom - Karen, Kevin, and Wayne cannot take their eyes off the new magic that is the color tv.
They really want one and decide to try and get their dad to get them one.
On the last day of school before Christmas vacation, Winnie surprises Kevin with a special Christmas gift.
Christmas becomes less about gifts and more about memories for Kevin.
Stars Fred Savage , Jason Hervey , Alley Mills , Olivia d'Abo , Danica McKellar , Josh Saviano , Dan Lauria , Gary McGurk , Tyde Kierney , Robina Suwol , Liz Torres
Directed by Steve Miner
Not Rated
FAMILY/COMEDY/DRAMA/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

"Whoops, that guy is eating a gray banana..."

Moonlighting : T'was the Episode Before Christmas (1985)

Made for ABC, airing December 27th in the US.
Season 2. Episode 10.
The story: It's almost Christmas and Miss DiPesto has been blessed with quite a surprise.
While doing her laundry, she had left the door to her apartment open.
When she returned, she found nothing other than babysitting in her laundry.
DiPesto brings the baby to work with her the next day and Maddie and David pretty much talk her into trying to find the baby's' parents.
It helps the situation that the police had been around to talk to Maddie and David.
But the tough guy who caused the baby to end up in Miss DiPestos' apartment in the first place is after whoever can lead him to the baby's' mom.
Stars Ralph Meyering Jr. , Leslie Wing , Richard Belzer , Brian Libby , Allyce Beasley , Bruce Willis , Cybill Shepherd , James Avery , Daniel Chodos , John Hostetter
Directed by Peter Werner
Not Rated
MYSTERY/COMEDY/DRAMA/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

"And then, last night it hit me..."

"It left a bruise I hope."

Monday, December 16, 2013

Family Ties : A Keaton Christmas Carol (1983)

Made for NBC, airing December 14th in the US.
Season 2. Episode 9.
The story: It's Christmas eve and Alex is being quite a scrooge. He seems to have lost all of his Christmas spirit and obviously forgotten all the wonderful Christmas' that he has spent with his family over the years.
After turning in for the evening, Alex is visited by the ghost of Christmas past and the ghost of Christmas future. What the ghosts remind him about his past and inform him about his future if he doesn't change his ways help him change his mind about Christmas.
Stars Meredith Baxter, Michael Gross, Michael J. Fox, Justine Bateman, Tina Yothers, Kaleena Kiff, Chris Hebert
Directed by Will Mackenzie
Not Rated
FAMILY/COMEDY/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

"Get off the lawn before I call the cops and take those clowns with ya!... Oh, sorry Reverend..."

The Bear Who Slept Through Christmas (1973)

Made for TV, airing sometime in 1973 in the US.
The story: Theodore Edward Bear isn't exactly like any other bear that he knows.
While all the other bears are getting ready for their winter hibernation, he cannot help thinking that he must find out what Christmas is all about.
He has tried in the past to stay awake for Christmas but always failed.
This year, when he is on the news making a spectacle of himself claiming that he will find Christmas - he is fired from his job at the honey factory.
So he decides he might as well travel until he finds Christmas.
Stars (voices by)Casey Kasem , Tom Smothers , Barbara Feldon , Kelly Lange , Michael Bell , Arte Johnson , Bob Holt , Caryn Paperny
Directed by Gerry Chiniquy & Hawley Pratt
Not Rated
ANIMATION/FAMILY

"Peace on earth and goodwill to man..."

Family Ties : A Christmas Story (1982)

Made for NBC, airing December 15th in the US.
Season 1. Episode 11.
The story: It's Christmas and the Keaton's are all ready to go on their planned ski trip.
Unfortunately, the family is stuck celebrating Christmas at home instead due to a huge snowstorm.
The family had decided this year to give gifts made from the heart instead of spending lots of money.
Elyse gives Steven a photo album filled with family memories.
Stars Meredith Baxter, Michael Gross, Michael J. Fox, Justine Bateman, Tina Yothers, Peter Jurasik, Charles Levin, Mari Gorman, Bruce French, Bridgette Andersen, Chris Hebert
Directed by Will Mackenzie
Not Rated
FAMILY/COMEDY/SERIES/CHRISTMAS

Sunday, December 15, 2013

Carried Away (2009)

Released November 1 , 2010 in the US.
Filming location(s) unknown.
The story : Ed has been working on being a writer and actor. But he is taking some time off to go home and spend the holidays with his family.
Soon after arriving , Ed finds out that his granny whom he lived with till he was seventeen is now residing in a nursing home.
Ed visits granny and straight away becomes concerned about her well being. Granny doesn't want to be in the nursing home , she wants to get the hell out of there.
After talking to his dad about granny not wanting to be in the nursing home and dad telling him that is where granny needs to be , and then giving the nursing home strict orders to keep Ed away from granny - Ed comes up with a plan.
Stars Juli Erickson , Gabriel Horn , Morgana Shaw , Mark Walters , Bryan Massey , Tyler Corie , Jenny Shakeshaft , Bill Flynn , Rosaura Cruz , Nancy Chartier , Elliott Gilbert , James M. Johnston , Gayle Massey , Christopher Piper , The Theater Fire
Directed by (& story written) Tom Huckabee
Not Rated
DRAMA/COMEDY

Friday, December 13, 2013

The Frozen (2012)

Released October 10th in the US.
Filmed in Colorado.
The story : Mike is taking his girlfriend Emma on a vacation of sorts.
The plan is to go and camp in the mountains in the snow.
They are thinking it should be a fun time , quite the adventure. Well , Emma isn't really thinking that. She wants to make Mike happy and she's confident he can handle whatever situation they find themselves in.
From the get go , things don't go very well.
Plus , it doesn't help matters that Emma keeps seeing a strange man wandering around and Mike isn't the handyman he wants to be.
Stars Seth David Mitchell , Brit Morgan , Noah Segan
Directed by (& story written) Andrew Hyatt
Rated PG13
THRILLER

I just love movies that lead nowhere...."We're on a road - to nowhere...Hey!"
:P

Robot & Frank (2012)

Released August 17th in the US.
Filmed entirely in New York.
The story : Frank is a retired cat burglar.
He has two adult kids who are always worried about him , as he seems to be having trouble with his memory and he lives alone.
Frank likes to walk into town and visit the local library , his favorite librarian and shop lift small trinkets at a soap store.
When Franks son decides to get him a robot to help him around the house and keep him company , Frank totally hates the idea and bitches and moans about it for a day or two.
But after a while , Frank kind of takes a liking to the robot , especially when he gets the fabulous idea of having his robot help him carry out his last great , secret plan.
Stars Frank Langella , James Marsden , Liv Tyler , Susan Sarandon , Ana Gasteyer , (voice) Peter Sarsgaard , Jeremy Strong , Bonnie Bentley , Jeremy Sisto , Katherine Waterston
Directed by Jake Schreier
Rated PG13
COMEDY/DRAMA

"Planning this burglary was a great idea."

Tuesday, December 10, 2013

The Snow Queen , Hans Christian Andersen's (1957)

Released November 20, 1959, in the US.
The story: Kay and Gerda are the best of friends. They spend their every day together in their garden, just sitting and dreaming.
When the cold weather comes, the two spend much time indoors. One evening Gerda's grandmother tells the children the story of where the snow comes from and of the powers of the Snow Queen.
When Gerda is frightened and believes she sees the Snow Queen outside the window, Kay picks fun.
Kay says that he will basically bonk the Snow Queen on the head if she tries to bother them.
Just then, a strong cold wind blows open the window.
Kay complains that something got in his eye and that his heart hurts.
Instantly after that Kay becomes mean and uncaring, especially towards his best friend Gerda.
From that point on, Kay is just plain mean. It seems the evil Snow Queen was angered by him picking fun at her and cast a spell on him.
One day after that, Kay disappears. No one can find him.
After waiting so long, Gerda decides to set out and find her best friend.
Stars Art Linkletter , Billy Booth , Rickey Busch , Jennie Lynn , Tammy Marihugh & stars (voices by) Sandra Dee , Tommy Kirk , Lillian Buyeff , Paul Frees , Galina Kozhakina
Directed by Lev Atamanov
Not Rated
ANIMATED/FAMILY/FANTASY

"What's stronger than love?"


Monday, December 9, 2013

Midnight's Child (1992)

Made for TV, airing April 21st in the US.
Filmed entirely in California.
The story: A very busy married couple believes everyone could quite possibly benefit from getting a nanny for their young daughter.
They have made plans and in a day or two, they expect their daughter's new nanny to arrive from Sweden.
Little does the couple realize, the woman who will arrive at their home isn't exactly a nanny.
Rather, this young woman has traveled very far from home to take over at a role other than nanny from another of her unsuspecting victims.
Stars Marcy Walker , Olivia d'Abo , Jim Norton , Cotter Smith , Elisabeth Moss , Gregory James , Judy Parfitt , Roxann Dawson , Mary Larkin , Pierrette Grace , Nicole Prochnik , Matt Corey , Stephanie Shroyer , Beth Bjork
Directed by Colin Bucksey
Not Rated
THRILLER/MYSTERY

The Smell of Success (2009)

Released January 20th in the US.
Filmed in California.
The story : Rose's Manure Company seems to be doing fairly well in its sales.
Its door-to-door salesmen seem to be happy with their jobs and their boss too.
All of a sudden , their boss up and dies on them.
Now what exactly will become of the company and its salesmen??
Well , the salesmen believe they can continue on , just as successfully as when the big boss was alive. They also believe the head salesman for the company will surely be the one to take over.
Although that whole train of thought couldn't be further from the truth....
The new boss who happens to have inherited the company , has no desire what so ever to own or run a manure company.
Stars Billy Bob Thornton , Mark Polish , Ed Helms , Kyle MacLachlan , Pruitt Taylor Vince , Richard Edson , TĆ©a Leoni , Frances Conroy , Patrick Bauchau , Scott Michael Campbell , Brooke Baumer , Vincent De Paul , Janet DuBois
Directed by Michael Polish
Rated PG13
COMEDY

"I think it's important that we discuss the size of his carrot."

Sunday, December 8, 2013

Gone (2006)

Aired on TV , May 11 , 2010 in the US.
Filmed entirely in Australia.
The story : Alex is a Brit who is traveling through Australia on holiday. Along the way , he plans on picking up his girlfriend Sophie and the two will continue on to the rest of their holiday together.
Early on before Alex hooks up withSophie he befriends a seemingly nice guy , Taylor - who wants to travel along with him , basically because yea he has a car and Alex doesnt.
This does seem like a good idea at first. But slowly Taylor begins fucking with Alexs' head. And then it occurs to Alex , after hooking up with Sophie that Taylor is looking to scoop up Sophie.
Alex and Sophie come close to breaking up on a daily basis because of all the crap Taylor pulls on them.
Every time they work it out and decide to go the rest of the way without Taylor , he somehow talks them into keeping him on.
But really , they should have just caught the first bus right out of there , leaving Taylor in the dust.
Stars Shaun Evans , Scott Mechlowicz , Victoria Thaine , Yvonne Strahovski , Amelia Warner , Zoe Tuckwell-Smith
Directed by Ringan Ledwidge
Rated R
MYSTERY/THRILLER/HORROR

"Did the message say that he was going? Or that he is gone?"

World's Greatest Dad (2009)

Released August 21st in the US.
Filmed in Washington.
The story : Lance is a school teacher , a single dad raising a very difficult young teenager but he really considers himself to be a writer.
The one thing that would make Lance completely fulfilled would be to have at least , just one of something he wrote published somewhere , somehow.
But that is not the case.
When Lance's son dies tragically the circumstances are quite embarrassing for Lance to say the least.
Lance concocts the plan of authoring a suicide note and claiming his son wrote it.
The note gets much attention and shows Lances' son in a light that no one really ever seen him in before.
This also gives Lance a vehicle for his writing! AhHa!
Stars Robin Williams , Daryl Sabara , Morgan Murphy , Geoff Pierson , Henry Simmons , Naomi Glick , Dan Spencer , Zach Sanchez , Alexie Gilmore , Evan Martin , Ellie Jameson , Michael Thomas Moore , Ray Mist , Jermaine Williams , Lorraine Nicholson
Directed by (& story written) Bobcat Goldthwait
Rated R
COMEDY/DRAMA

"Did Kyle write anything else...???"

Friday, December 6, 2013

Big Top Pee-wee (1988)

Released July 22nd in the US.
Filmed entirely in California.
The story : Pee-wee lives on his very own farm now. His life now revolves around being the best farmer he can possibly be.
Pee-wee believes he is living a great life. Happy with his work , animals and the love of his life Winnie.
Even if the towns people hate his guts.
When a bad storm blows in , Pee-wee and his animal friends find shelter in their shelter shed.
After the storm passes , Pee-wee finds a traveling circus in his yard.
Now Pee-wee has some new friends and interests.
Stars Paul Reubens , (voice) Wayne White , Penelope Ann Miller , Albert Henderson , Mary Jackson , Frances Bay , Leo Gordon , Jeffrey R. Shaw , Dustin Diamond , Savannah Prue , Lisa M. Ball , Molly Ann Carter , Myka Peck , Dustin Berkovitz , Kit MacKenzie , Jered Aspenson , Kris Kristofferson , Valeria Golino , Susan Tyrrell , Jack Murdock , David Byrd , Anne Seymour , Jay Robinson , Kenneth Tobey , Eve Smith , Mihaly 'Michu' Meszaros , Franco Columbu , Benicio Del Toro , Matthias Hues , Vance Colvig Jr. , Terrence Mann , Kevin Peter Hall , Lynne Marie Stewart , John Sherrod , Joseph Arias , Stephanie Hodge
Directed by Randal Kleiser
Rated PG
FAMILY/COMEDY

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Teaching Mrs. Tingle (1999)

Released August 20th in the US.
Filmed in California.
The story : Leigh Ann is a senior in high school who is working hard to try and achieve either Valedictorian status or at the least a much needed scholarship.
Leigh Ann isn't very confident about her assignment but she feels she has done the best she can and that should at least give her an A.
Unfortunately , Leigh Ann's teacher is the dreaded Mrs. Tingle , who doesn't give anyone a break and likes to bust ass on a regular basis.
An old friend of Leigh Anns' brings to her attention that he had copied Mrs. Tingles' final assignment that hasnt been given to them yet and ends up giving it to her , against her wishes of course.
But Leigh Ann gets caught red handed and that ain't good.
Stars Katie Holmes , Lesley Ann Warren , Marisa Coughlan , Barry Watson , Liz Stauber , Helen Mirren , Michael McKean , Vivica A. Fox , Molly Ringwald , Jeffrey Tambor
Directed by (& story written) Kevin Williamson
Rated PG13
COMEDY/THRILLER

"She kinda looks like that movie you know , where that demon chick upchucks all over everybody."

Monday, December 2, 2013

Party Girl (1995)

Released June 9th in the US.
Filmed entirely in New York,.
The story : Mary is the ultimate party girl. She lives just for the party. Everyday and everything in Marys' life is purely for the party.
When Mary gets arrested for all kinds of things at , you guessed it , a big bash shes' throwing at her house , she's kind of stuck.
She ends up asking her Godmother for help , as she is the only family she really has.
So , Mary insists that her Godmother help her out some more with more cash.
When she refuses and asks Mary what the hell she's gonna do to take care of herself , Mary decides to make a go at working at the library with her Godmother.
Even though Mary has absolutely no idea how the library works.
Stars Parker Posey , Lum Chang Pang , Anthony DeSando , Omar Townsend , Liev Schreiber , Donna Mitchell , Guillermo DĆ­az , Elizabeth Beer , Sasha von Scherler , Richard Topol , C. Francis Blackchild , John Ventimiglia , Dwight Ewell , Teresa Lebron , Wendell Daughtery , Timothy Duperron , Robert Sorce , Natasha Twist , Irma St. Paule , Nicole Bobbitt , Marion Rosenfeld
Directed by Daisy von Scherler Mayer
Rated R
COMEDY

"You're telling me , that if your name is syphilis and you spent your life lugging a rock up a hill you wouldn't be miserable!?"

We're the Millers (2013)

Released August 7th in the US.
Filmed in North Carolina and New Mexico.
The story : David Clark deals marijuana. He isn't that big of a dealer , but he does deal under a pretty powerful guy he has known since his college days.
David gets caught up in some dumb shit and ends up getting robbed of all his drugs and money.
Now he doesn't know what hes gonna do.
His boss , decides to send him on a mission to Mexico to smuggle some drugs back to the US for him.
There's only one way David can think of to do this and not get caught.
Stars Jason Sudeikis , Will Poulter , Jennifer Aniston , Emma Roberts , Ed Helms , Nick Offerman , Kathryn Hahn , Molly C. Quinn
Directed by Rawson Marshall Thurber
Rated R
COMEDY