meloda Reviews

Problem Child 3: Junior in Love (1995 TV Movie)

By far the worst of the trilogy

[1/10 · 27 September 2017]

As a kid, I loved Problem Child 1 & 2. Now as an adult, both of those are pretty bad. However, they can still have good moments watchable. This movie, on the other hand, was just a complete waste.

The worst part of all is that as corny and cheesy as the first two movies were--at least the second movie ended very well and on a great note with Ben falling for a lovely woman with a daughter. They should have picked up where they left off and made them a family--yet they totally wrecked the story by making it so the ladies are not even in this movie. It's no wonder John Ritter didn't want to take part. It has a horrible plot, is not even enjoyable, and even as a kid I never liked the third movie.

This movie was made for TV; and is nothing but slow and boring. Do yourself a favor and don't waste your time. If you have absolutely nothing better to do, you don't have a DVR, and can only watch live TV; Problem Child 1 or 2 is slightly worth watching if that's all that's on. Don't even bother watching this one; you're better off twiddling your thumb and staring at the wall all night!

Full House: The Last Dance (1994) Season 7, Episode 17

The most touching Full House episode ever

[23 February 2017]

One could not get more emotional than this. Usually regarded as a corny old show, this episode is one that would touch anyone with a true sense of emotion. I remember before it aired when I was a kid, the fair forewarning before the show explaining that watching it as a family was best on a "very special episode you'll never forget." They weren't kidding, this is truly an episode one could never forget.

Though already explained in the official IMDb synopsis; the following may contain spoilers:

As explained in every episode guide, Michelle becomes extra attached to her visiting grandfather, who dies unexpectedly. She and her great grandfather develop an extra close bond, which is so adorable and special to see. Initially, she is very shy of the man; as she is the only one not to have a memory of his first visit in an earlier episode when she was very little. Old enough now to understand, she grows very attached and fond of the man. It is very sudden when the family is so saddened; and the music starts to play to hint of it. Brings chills and tears to the eyes of any viewer with half a heart.

It is a very special episode, as Michelle and Jesse hide their emotions at first, but use their usual special bond to grieve and work together as a team through the matter. This is a very beautifully done episode, especially when one can relate their own life experiences to it. Like the announces said and were right about when it first aired--it is a very special episode you will never forget.

Uptown Girls (2003)

Kind of boring, but it's fair

[4/10 · 16 February 2017]

I guess this is worth watching if you have nothing better to do. There are many other "chick- flicks" that are far better than this movie, though. I am usually a nut for such movies that are harmless and non-violent, but this one is just a little too slow for entertainment. If you are into chick-flicks and you bored with nothing else to do with bad weather outside--watch it once just to see it (but only if it comes on TV; wouldn't recommend paying to rent.)

It has a good ending, a beautiful song at the end, and an overall good plot; but really has its slow and boring parts. 4/10

Overboard (1987)

Excellent. How was this not a box office hit?

[8/10 · 10 February 2017]

This is a truly outstanding movie. Hilarious, adventurous, fun, entertaining, and a great story. How could this movie not been a bigger success? Goldie Hawn plays rich and arrogant Joanna, who is never happy or satisfied with anything. Kurt Russell plays Dean Profit, a dirty man with not huge sense of responsibility. Once the "overboard" incident occurs, Dean pretends to be her husband, initially just for revenge on how she previously cheated him. It's a complete disaster at first, especially with his dirty home and dirty kids that all con her into thinking she's their mother. There are quite a bit of unexpected twists and turns along the way. It's amazing what they unexpectedly and inadvertently teach each other along the way. There are so many laughs along the way, so many unexpected turns, and it is such a good all-around movie with such a humorous plot and great story-line that ends so happily.

Though times have changed and it's now a little out-dated; it's still a great watch if you have nothing else to do, as long as you remember this was the mid-80's and how much life has changed ever since. Wonderful for an 80's movie, and a true 8/10 score in my book. BRAVO, Hawn & Russell!

North (1994)

I can't believe I loved this movie as a kid

[1/10 · 10 January 2017]

I can't believe this was one of my favorites when I was a kid. I actually watched it on multiple occasions, and couldn't see how ridiculously bad it is.

First, who names their kid North? That alone is ridiculous--always assumed it was about someone traveling north (which he does in one scene, but that's not the point). North is a kid who is an only child, and feels neglected by his parents with them working all the time, paying no attention to him, never coming to his games/school functions, and fighting at the dinner table. His adventures to come are so unrealistic, not funny, and beyond cheesy/corny--STUPID!

Even on your most boring night with absolutely nothing to do, you'd be better off to sit at home and twiddle your thumb than to see this waste of time and disgrace to the film industry. Sorry I ever was that stupid to think it was cool; boy was I a mindless little tyke!

I'll Be Home for Christmas (1997 TV Movie)

Very Good for a TV Movie

[7/10 · 8 January 2017]

For a made-for-TV movie, this is very good. Don't expect a classic, but it's very heartwarming and touching for a family to watch around the holidays.

A man (Robert Hayes) comes home to his hometown with his preteen daughter (the talented and beautiful Ashley Gorrell, always one of my favorites as a kid and my first childhood celebrity crush!) who is very adorable in this movie and plays her part very well. Hayes is always very talented and a good dad in every movie he's been in, and this is no exception. He plays a very good man who returns to his hometown and gets reacquainted with many people. He has created himself a new life in his new town, and faces a lot of transitions when returning home. This leads to a lot of confusion for the man, being a widower and single dad. He faces a lot of choices and challenges in the process to make possible life changes. All everyone wants is for a Merry Christmas in this dying small town, which creates a lot of confusion and difficulty for many. A lot of surprises happen along the way to throw many expected things off course. Every character is very likable, however, and it leads to a very positive ending.

Being from a small and dying town myself, I can relate a lot to it; and only wish such things could end so well in my area. This movie is well worth watching around the holidays if you are in the mood for a good spirit and good family time. No classic, but enjoyable if one keeps expectations low and realizes it's just a TV movie.

Meet the Blacks (2016)

What a waste

[1/10 · 15 December 2016]

Well folks, I just wasted two hours of my time and the money to rent this stupid movie. Actually thought it would be funny based on a friend's recommendation. It started out okay, but just gets to be all the more lame and dull with non-believable action the entire way through. I kept waiting for it to get better, only wanting to get my money's-worth; yet just wasted time. Bad acting, bad plot, non-adventurous, and just plane lame.

It's been a long time since I gave a movie a 1/10. Obviously I'm not the only one if the average rating is 3/10. Wish I'd done more research. Do yourself a favor and steer clear of this garbage.

Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994)

Best Science Fiction show EVER!

[10/10 · 6 December 2016]

With the exception of the first season of the series (which is pretty corny and dull) this is the greatest science-fiction adventure show of all time. Season 2 was decent, and it only got better as the years went on, ending on a high note by the end of the series with the best adventures imaginable. Seasons 3-8 are the best.

Star Trek TNG has the best cast of the regular senior officers, and each episode is very adventurous with great plots and very believable guests and story-lines. It keeps you on the edge of your seat and is very entertaining for anyone from the biggest "Trekkie," to the occasional viewer, to even the not-so-interested. The talented and terrific actor Patrick Stewart stars as the great Captain Picard (greatest in all the Star Trek editions,) who is very likable and a wonderful leader. The rest of the crew keeps your interest, and is well worth getting into for hours of entertainment.

How I wish more shows in the science-fiction area could be this good. A true 10/10, and A+ to stand the test of time and still be watchable after over 20 years since its cancellation. BRAVO, Star Trek TNG!

Carpool (1996)

It's fair

[5/10 · 21 November 2016]

I liked this movie when it came out, but I was a pre-teen. Now, it's fair. No classic and no extreme adventure; and definitely very unrealistic with kid jokes to make matters worse. However, it does have it's exciting parts that keep you on the edge of your seat. A few times it really does get you going. I wouldn't recommend see it without kids around, and would only see it if there really is nothing better to see. However, it is better than a lot of family movies, and is worth a try if you're willing to lower your standards.

All the more, and on the plus side; it really has a good plot and good moments. If you really give it a fair chance and "read between the lines," there are hidden messages about team work and self-development. The man on the run has a good heart, but is facing lots of problems. People (even the kids and witnesses) like Arnold's character better than the Dad. The Dad, selfish in the beginning, really learns a lot about putting others before himself - while making a new friend and bettering himself. The kids, who argue in the beginning, also form a bond, and have some good learning moments. They all work together as a team, and it leads to a surprise ending.

No classic, and probably only a 5/10, with just a C grade; but that's better than rock-bottom, and is an all-around adequate movie worth one watch if there truly is nothing better on TV or anything better to do.

Due Date (2010)

Good movie, but where have I seen it before?

[6/10 · 14 July 2016]

I really enjoyed this movie. It had its moments of laughter, good humor, excitement, and adventure. It keeps you on the edge of your seat at times, and never ceases to be entertaining.

That said, WHERE HAVE I SEEN THIS BEFORE?! PLANES, TRAINS, AND AUTOMOBILES!! Although the plot is different and has different ideas with a different story-line, the common- denominators are the same: A cool dude is looking to get home to his family, and encounters an annoying/socially inept travel companion who is lonely and looking for company along the way. John Candy's character in Planes Trains and Automobiles is almost exactly like Ethan in this movie, annoying the Peter (similar to Steve Martin's character in Planes Trains and Automobiles.) Just as in Planes, Trains, and Automobiles - the two lead characters struggle to get across country with one terribly annoying the other. The endings are different (both positive) as well as the struggles to get home and the character personalities/aspirations; but there were just too many similarities with Planes Trains and Automobiles to give this movie a higher rating than a 6.

This movie is very enjoyable and entertaining, and I would recommend it for anyone looking for a good movie. If you've never seen the classic Planes, Trains, and Automobiles - you have nothing to compare it to, so I would recommend it. If you have, be prepared to see some extreme similarities that may lessen the enjoyment of this movie. All that said - well done and well acted still make it positive, and I do not regret watching from start to finish.

D2: The Mighty Ducks (1994)

The only decent one of the trilogy

[4/10 · 16 October 2015]

The first movie is as dull and cheesy as can be. The third is a complete letdown. I loved this one as a kid. Now, I can see how unrealistic it is and kind of dull. That said, it is the best of the three, and at least watchable. It teaches kids about teamwork, and does have a good plot. A lot of interesting moments that are very predictable, but it leads to a happy ending.

For a kids sports movie, this is worthwhile. No classic that has stood the test of time, but was good for it's time in the mid-90's when hockey seemed to be more popular nationwide. Worth watching if you have kids to share with who like sports, or if it's on TV and you have nothing better to do on a rainy day.

The Visitor (I) (2007)

Very touching (sad but a good point)

[31 January 2011]

This is a very good movie. It really goes to show that a person's life can be changed. The professor was an unhappy man at first, but the unexpected encounters really changed who he was. It really does the man good.

As a warning, don't be surprised if what looks to be good turns sad on you. The ending is not what you may expect, and was not what I had hoped for. HOWEVER, it is still a great movie and very touching. Though the professor was a totally changed man by the end, and found new hope and new reason. Be prepared for some sad moments, but if you read between the lines, you'll see how positively transformed a person can be with new inspirations and new paths they unexpectedly take.

The Price is Right (1972– )

From unmissable to unwatchable

[1/10 · 20 October 2010]

In the Bob Barker days, this show as an absolute 10. Bob Barker was very charming, entertaining, caring about the contestants, and just fun to watch. Announcer Rod Roddy made it all the more fun with his great sense of humor and wonderful talents. Then, things started to go down hill when Roddy's health deteriorated and sub-announcers made it boring. Luckily, Rich Fields was a good replacement announcer.

As everyone knows, Drew Carey replaced Bob Barker in 2007 when Barker retired. It has never been the same. Drew is a comedian, not a game show host announcer. Now, even fields is gone, having been fired by the fools who couldn't see he was the only good thing left. The models are still pretty, but they don't have the charm the old ones did. The spirit of that show is really gone. Worse yet, the efforts to see the show in person are a nightmare. One must wait in line outside for hours, go through countless screenings and checks, and wait too long. The selection is extremely unfair, as they pick contestants on how you look in a very brief pre-screening, instead of fairly drawing names out of a hat. Security is very rude, and it is so loud in the studio--it's hard to even hear yourself think.

Bob, you are sorely missed. In Rod We Trust to make the show comeback someday with a much better host than Drew Carey, and boot new announcer JD Roberto. Then, maybe loyal friends in true will be able to watch the show again. For now, the spirit of the show has died and is no longer worth watching if remember the past three decades and before to compare it to.

The Big Green (1995)

No Classic, but a good plot

[6/10 · 25 April 2009]

This movie is great for kids, and any kid should see it. Many teens and adults may find this movie wasteful, but anyone who keeps an open mind and makes efforts to "read between the lines" can really see that there is a lesson to be learned.

As in reality, there are many towns such as the fictional rural town this movie takes place in. In such towns (with closed industrial mills and no jobs,) you will find kids with too much time on their hands like in this movie. At the beginning, the kids didn't see a point to their lives and just didn't care. Sheriff Tom Palmer (Guttenberg) didn't have much of a life either. Anna Montgomery comes to town as the school teacher and really turns them around. She really teaches them to believe that they are no less of people than anyone else and that with hard work and persistence, one can achieve their goals. They don't even know how to play soccer in the beginning, but it goes to show that hard work, heart, persistence, belief, and teamwork can go a long ways. Anna Montgomery is a terrific teacher, coach, and leader. Towards the end, anyone can tell that they are changed for the better and learn to believe in themselves on and off the field, thanks to true leadership.

I admit, this is not a movie with tons of adventure and excitement. Though it may not be a classic like Forrest Gump or Citizen Kane; it really is a great family movie and really goes to prove a point. I recommend it to anyone with a family and a heart to see the good that can come with good leadership and teamwork.

The Simpsons (1989– )

From unmissable, to unwatchable! (Should of quit while they were ahead.)

[29 April 2006]

I remember when this was the best show on TV. Bravo to Matt Groening for when it was. It was so funny and entertaining from its premiere in 1989 until about 2002. They had great characters, story lines, humor, etc. After that, it became way too "far fetched." Now days, episodes are way too unrealistic. I know it's just a cartoon, but it used to seem possible. Suddenly, they got new writers, new story lines, and changed the plot. Ever since, the things done on the show have become so bogus and bizarre, nothing is enjoyable anymore. In the old days, this show made you think about how dumb everyday people are sometimes. NOW, dumb people seem smart compared to how dumb and unrealistic this show can be. My recommendation: Get seasons 1-13 on DVD, and avoid ever watching any new episodes. Hasn't anyone ever heard of quitting while they're ahead?!?!?!?!

The Polar Express (2004)

Suprizingly excellent!

[9/10 · 23 May 2005]

WOW, I was very impressed with this movie. I didn't think it would be so well done, entertaining, enjoyable or marvelous! Considering it was based on a simple picture book, I didn't think there would even be very many words spoken. Tom Hanks and company put together a great film. This was a great adventure for all ages, and anybody who went into it with an open mind.

On a scale of 1-10, I definitely give it a high 9 and letter grade of A. It is definitely worth seeing, and will probably become a Holiday classic many years from now. I recommend Polar Express to anybody with an imagination and who likes a good adventure!

Shrek 2 (2004)

Only 8.5/10, not 10 like the first!

[8/10 · 2 February 2005]

YES, this movie was funny. It was even a tad bit more adventurous than the first. However, like many sequels, it can't measure up to the first. I don't know what it is, but this movie is missing something. It isn't as funny as the first movie, and there are times that just don't fit in with the whole Shrek story. The ending was slightly disappointing, as they didn't end up the way I'd hoped. However, you (like many) may disagree and be glad about it! Not much else to say about it. If I hadn't first seen the original Shrek, I would've loved this movie. That's the problem when the first movie is such a success, the sequel is expected to be equally as good, if not better! On the other hand, if you see the original Shrek first, then you can't understand it as well! My advise is to watch Shrek 1, then watch Shrek 2 BEING PREPARED that it just isn't as good of humor as the first.

Family Matters (1989–1998)

Good show, despite several faults

[28 October 2004]

This really was a good show. Whether or not you like Steve Urkel, it is not a bad show. I always did find Steve Urkel funny, and he really did have a good heart, just not a good way of showing it. The only problem I see, is eventually--everything got old and the only thing that kept them standing was Urkel. The youngest girl (Judy) left the show, and suddenly they pretended like she never existed instead of saying that she was still there, just never showing her. Unfortunately, Rachel and grandma Estelle didn't last and they also left the show. At least they sometimes appeared as guest stars, as Judy wasn't even a family member any more!

NO, Steve Urkel did NOT steal the show. Yes, he was a favorite, but that's part of the reason the show was such a success. Point being, (until about the last three seasons) they managed to still make the show entertaining and enjoyable, with AND without Urkel. Some episodes barely had any Urkel scenes. What did bother me, Urkel was always funny, but in the last few seasons, he was all they had left. For example, Laura was old enough to dress however she wanted after she was 18, yet Carl got mad at her about it. It's unfortunate that without Urkel, the show became quite slow during the last few seasons. It's nice that every body improved themselves so much, especially Steve. Laura came to realize what a good heart Steve had, and that he really did mean well. What would have really helped, is if they had just quit after the Spring of 1996 (which was planned originally.) If they had, they would have been a success the whole time. Unfortunately, from 1996-1998, it got boring and only Urkel was left popular. That's why quitting while they were ahead really would have been to their advantage.

If you want a good adventure, laugh and family show, this show (episodes from start-1996) is perfect for you. Just avoid the last few years, as they really did get boring (unless you only watch it because of Urkel, then you'll always like it!)

On Our Own (1994–1995)

Great show, should've lasted longer

[19 August 2004]

This show was really a good family comedy, and should have lasted longer. Some people preferred the first season, when the older brother dressed as "Mama J." to keep the family together after losing their parents. Many criticized them for copying Mrs. Doubtfire, but it had a totally different plot and was still funny. It was then pulled off the air from December, 1994; to March, 1995. After that, they changed the plot, saying that Josh (the oldest brother) was granted custody. That was good too. Naturally, that way wasn't as humorous, but was still a good show for the family. It's too bad it didn't last longer. It really would have worked if they hadn't based it on "Mama J." as being the only funny character, as people would have liked it anyway, AND Josh could have continued to dress as her but not as often.

13 Going on 30 (2004)

Too Cool!

[8/10 · 12 August 2004]

I loved this movie! Most movies these days have a lot of violence and dumb things happening. Movies like these are innocent, creative, adventurous, and make you stop and think.

Jenna was a girl growing up in the 80's. It was her 13th birthday, and she had the popular girls over for her party. It didn't go as she'd hoped, so she made a wish. They say "be careful what you wish for, it might come true." IT DID! Jenna woke up the next morning (16 years later!), not knowing what was going on. She was lost, and didn't know who to turn to. She had a very interesting adventure. Just imagine when you were 13, if you'd had to live the life of a grown up! Wouldn't be so easy, would it?!

Yeah, I'm a guy, and this was a "chick flick" but who cares! Chick flicks are harmless, don't give you nightmares, and you can just enjoy them! If you're up for a good laugh and interesting adventure, this movie is great for you. I give it an 9/10 overall, and recommend it to anybody with a heart!

My Boss's Daughter (2003)

Awesome!

[9/10 · 22 August 2003]

Now this one was GREAT! I work at a movie theater, so I get to see a lot of movies. I just got done screening this one, and it was probably the funniest movie I have seen this year! I wasn't expecting it to be that great, but I haven't laughed so hard since who knows when!

This guy Tom has a really strict and mean boss who has a daughter (Lisa) Tom obviously has it for. He somehow gets invited to their home one night, and things go bananas from there! Let's just say a lot of crazy people come, lot's of really weird (but hilarious) things happen, EVERYTHING goes wrong for poor Tom who is trying his best but can't stop it, and worst of all--this all happens when the boss is away and putting trust in poor Tom. While all this is happening, Tom is trying SO hard to make a good impression for Lisa, but she always catches him at the worst possible place/time! Can Tom do anything to get out of the mess he's in, keep his job, and most important--get Lisa to like him?

If you love good comedies like I do, this movie is perfect for you! For the first time in quite a while, I give this movie a good solid A grade, and 9.7/10! If you want a good laugh and to see that life is a ball again, go watch this great film!!!!!!!!!!

Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde (2003)

Doesn't at all measure up to the first

[28 July 2003]

WELL, I love Reese Witherspoon, but this movie wasn't half as good as I thought it would be. Like many other super first movies, the sequel was a drag. I did like her little dog, but it focused way too much on him. It should have focused more on Elle, as she is the main character. If you liked the first as much as I did, I would not recommend you to see this one! It was OKAY, but that's 6/10, and a C grade, only average. Reese's movies should A/B movies!

The Planet's Funniest Animals (1999– )

Voice-overs ruin the humor!

[19 July 2003]

Personally, I like this show. The videos sent in are funny, but just like the other "funniest" shows, the stupid voice-over jokes in the background take all the humor out of it. In order to enjoy the show, I have to mute the TV just to find them funny! When I do that, they are humorous. Unlike America's Funniest Home Videos, the videos sent in are cute/funny and done well. They rarely show dumb clips of people/animals getting hurt, and therefore they are funny. But AGAIN, they should "de-voice" that Matt guy who does the corny joke voice-overs, as his dumb jokes take all the fun out of the good videos. If it weren't for him, I would give this show an A. BUT, for now I have to give it a C-, and him an FFF! I would say that 9/10 of the videos sent in are funny and well done.

Angel Eyes (2001)

Great movie, but kinda sad

[14 July 2003]

This was a great movie. It had many very sad parts all the way through, and really does work your emotions. I love all of J-Lo's "chick-flick" comedies, but this was definitely not one of those! Nothing at all funny about it. However, it really is a good movie. Jennifer plays Sharon, a female cop. It was sad that the man in the movie had died, but it's nice that he got to watch over Sharon. They become friends, and there are many sad any happy parts throughout the movie.

True, it is not a real happy movie and is slightly a "tear-jerker." Still, if you like J-Lo and movies that are both happy and sad, I recommend this movie. Again, don't go in it expecting a common J-Lo chick-flick like Wedding Planner or Maid in Manhattan. Be prepared for some sad times, keep an open mind, and you will enjoy this movie.

Island of the Blue Dolphins (1964)

Sad, but true

[7 June 2003]

I remember seeing this movie years ago. It was based on the book, which was a true story. However, it is true that when Europeans came along, they did bring along diseases, and sadly enough murdered innocent natives. Those people tried hard to defend their territory, but were outnumbered. This movie tells the story of a girl who survived after her tribe left the island. It's too sad to think about much more. I would only recommend it if you like true stories about history. Otherwise, all you will see is a lot of people dying, and sad stuff along the way.