Cece In The City

Tag: movie review

  • Thanksgiving Reflections & A New Journey Rising

    Happy Thanksgiving, beautiful people!


    I hope this season fills your heart with peace, joy, and so much happiness. Today is a perfect reminder to slow down, breathe, and be thankful for where we are, what we’ve overcome, and what’s still on the way. 🙏✨

    Now let’s slide over to Cece on the Scenes…

    I got a chance to watch the Lisa Lisa documentary on Netflix. She was the first Latina artist to hit No. 1 on the R&B charts and the first Latina performer on Broadway with a major presence—truly a pioneer. I learned so much about her journey in the industry, her struggles, and her powerful fight through cancer. Sending all the prayers up for her continued healing and strength as she celebrates being cancer-free.

    I’d give the documentary a 3 out of 5—informative, heartfelt, and a real reminder of how music shapes us. And yes… “I Wonder If I Take You Home” still sits pretty on my playlist today!

    Before you go—
    Are you following me on YouTube and Spotify? That’s where all my adventures, stories, and behind-the-scenes magic live. Come join the journey:

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/@ceceinthecity?si=HHGEZNTTB7v7q6H1
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5JIQaXjMxern1UIQlo6yEh

    And if you’re into uplifting content, journaling, and self-reflection, make sure you follow Candlelight Conversations with Cece too:

    YouTube: https://youtube.com/@candlelightconversation?si=Qiv5Wib_zMX2rxsI
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5xRvifqSumeBJUbPwbqdro

    Like, share, and subscribe to stay connected.

    2026 is peeking right around the corner—
    I hope you’re setting your intentions, mapping out your goals, preparing your heart, and making room for new blessings and new adventures.

    Stay tuned… Cece in the City is just getting started. 🌆✨

  • Celebrating Fathers, Freedom & Favorites – A June to Remember

    Hey everyone! I hope all the amazing fathers out there had a wonderful Father’s Day — you truly deserve to be celebrated. 💙Even though my dad lives 10–12 hours away, I still found a way to send him some love. I gifted him a neck fan (you know the kind that wraps around your neck and blows cool air) — perfect for someone who’s always walking or out in the yard during these hot summer days. He told me, “This is just what I needed,” and that warmed my heart. Sometimes it’s the simple, thoughtful gifts that make the biggest difference.

    Click here to purchase

    https://amzn.to/3HPU2jS

    Speaking of meaningful days… today is Juneteenth — a powerful reminder of freedom, resilience, and how far we’ve come. On June 19, 1865, two years after the Emancipation Proclamation, enslaved African Americans in Texas were finally informed of their freedom. It’s a day to reflect, educate, and celebrate. So tell me — how are you honoring Juneteenth today?

    While you’re soaking in the summer vibes, I’ve been busy doing a little bit of everything:
    📚 Book Review: I just finished A Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry (yes, I adore her books!). This story follows two writers battling for the same book deal — and while they’re supposed to be competitors, sparks begin to fly. Of course, there’s a twist! If you love romantic tension and creative journeys, you’ll want to grab this one.

    🎬 Movie Review: I watched The Last Bullet recently — and as an action lover, I gave it a solid 4 out of 5. It kept me on the edge of my seat!

    Purchase Here

    https://amzn.to/4ldNHwY

    🌮 Foodie Find: Finally tried Rreal Tacos in Lawrenceville, GA — it’s a new location and super cute inside. They also have a patio space if you like dining outdoors. The tacos were flavorful, though my daughter was a bit bummed they didn’t have lettuce. Minor gnat situation aside, the customer service was great and the 30-minute wait was expected with it being a new location. If you’ve eaten there, let me know your thoughts!

    Also, don’t forget — I offer product reviews, book reviews, movie reviews, and business shoutouts. I’m currently running special rates this month, so if you’re interested, email me at cecewibnet@gmail.com and let’s work together.

    https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M

    📖 And last but not least — if you haven’t already, grab a copy of my poetry book on Amazon. Your support means the world. 💕

    Purchase Here

    https://amzn.to/3HgFp8M

    Thanks for reading and remember — support businesses, read a good book, and celebrate your freedom, people, and your passions.

    Until next time,
    Cece in the City

  • Final Destination Is Back—and Still Killing It (Literally)

    Ever since the very first Final Destination hit theaters in 2000, I’ve been hooked. There’s just something about the franchise’s eerie premonitions, butterfly-effect chaos, and those jaw-dropping death scenes that keep you on the edge of your seat—and nervously side-eyeing everyday objects. So when I heard they were bringing the series back with a brand-new film, I had to see it. And let me tell you—it did not disappoint!

    This latest installment takes everything we loved from the originals and cranks it up a notch. I still don’t know how the writers come up with these insane, unexpected ways for fate to strike, but they had me gasping, laughing, and clenching my seat the whole time. The creativity behind each scene is next-level—almost like Death itself has a twisted sense of humor.

    What really blew my mind? I found out after watching it that there was a 4D version available. 4D! Can you imagine experiencing those suspenseful moments with moving seats, bursts of air, and maybe even a splash or two? If I had known, I would’ve definitely signed up for the full immersive ride. But even in 2D, the film was a wild, thrilling journey.

    For me, it’s an easy 5 out of 5. The Final Destination franchise never fails—it knows exactly how to play with your fears and entertain you in the process. If you’re a longtime fan like I am, you’ll love this new chapter. And if you’re new to the series, buckle up—because fate doesn’t like to be cheated.

  • Nonnas: A Taste of Love, Loss, and Legacy

    Hey Hey — Cece On the Scenes!

    Y’all already know I have a soft spot for films based on true stories, and I just watched one that tugged at my heartstrings. It’s called Nonnas, and yes — it’s inspired by the real story of Enoteca Maria, a unique restaurant that started right on Staten Island.

    The film follows a man who, after losing his beloved mother, finds himself drifting through grief. With what little money he had, he made a bold move — opening a restaurant. But not just any restaurant. He brought in a group of older women, “nonnas,” to cook just like grandmothers do — real, soulful, homemade meals that feel like a warm hug.

    Of course, the kitchen wasn’t always smooth sailing. These ladies had their fair share of personality clashes and dramatic moments, but it was all part of the journey. What truly moved me was his intention — to recreate the love, warmth, and legacy of his mother through food. And let’s not forget his best friend who stood by him through thick and thin. That loyalty? Beautiful.

    This film hit me hard — made me think of my own mother and grandmother, and had me in my feelings the whole time. It’s a story of love, legacy, and the healing power of food. With Mother’s Day just passing, the timing of this release is perfect. I give Nonnas a heartfelt 4 out of 5 stars.

    Grab your tissues and go check it out. And as always, stay tuned and follow Cece On the Scenes for more film gems and soulful stories.

  • 🎬 Movie Night Madness: Havoc Brought the Heat!


    Starring Tom Hardy, Jessie Mei Li, Timothy Olyphant, and Forest Whitaker
    Rated: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

    Okay, listen up, action lovers—Havoc on Netflix is not one to sleep on. I finally carved out some time to watch it after my dad told me, “You’ve gotta check this one out.” And when my dad recommends something, especially an action flick, I listen. He knows his stuff.

    Let me tell you—Tom Hardy does not disappoint (when does he ever?). From gritty alley chases to hand-to-hand combat that’ll make you tense up in your seat, Havoc brings the kind of chaotic energy that action fans live for. Jessie Mei Li held her own, Timothy Olyphant was smooth but dangerous, and Forest Whitaker gave it that veteran intensity we love to see.

    I gave it a solid 4 out of 5 stars. Why not 5? Well, I’m a tough critic when it comes to story flow—but the action sequences? Top tier. There’s something satisfying about a movie that doesn’t waste time getting to the grit, and Havoc dives right into the mess. It’s raw, it’s fast-paced, and it’s got just enough heart to keep you locked in.

    After I finished it, I immediately texted my daughter and said, “You HAVE to watch this.” Guess what? She did—and yep, she agreed. We both said, “Now that’s how you do action.”

    So, if you’re like me and love a good, gritty, adrenaline-pumping movie that keeps you glued to the screen, do yourself a favor and check out Havoc on Netflix. Get your popcorn, turn the volume up, and buckle in.

    Now tell me—have you seen Havoc yet? What’s your favorite Tom Hardy role so far? Drop it in the comments! 🎥🍿

  • Movie Gem Alert: Exterritorial on Netflix

    Y’all know I’m always blogging about books, entertainment, travel, hidden gems, and movies—and today, I’ve got one that had me glued to the screen with popcorn in one hand and emotions in the other.

    I just watched Exterritorial on Netflix, and whew—if you love action-packed movies with a twist of mystery and emotion, this one’s for you. Now listen, I love a good action movie. Explosions? Yes. Intense chase scenes? Absolutely. But if there’s one thing I hate, it’s seeing women hurt or dismissed—especially moms.

    This film follows a mother who’s desperately searching for her missing little boy. And let me tell you, her mama bear energy is unmatched. But instead of people helping her, they hit her with the “You’re delusional” line. Uh, excuse me?! She knows her child, and she’s not backing down. I won’t spoil whether she’s right or not, but just know—it’ll have you questioning everything until the very end.

    Now, did I give it a 5-star rating? Almost! I gave it 4 stars because honestly… what mama in 2025 is leaving her young kid alone with the world being what it is? That part had me side-eyeing the screen. But despite that, she was STRONG, BRAVE, and most importantly—she kicked some serious butt. Like, real “Don’t mess with a mother” vibes. 😂

    It’s got action, a strong female lead, a story that pulls at your heart, and just enough suspense to keep you guessing.

    So tell me—have you seen it yet? What did you think? Would you have gone as hard as she did for your child?

    Let’s talk movies, mama power, and real talk in the comments. 💥🍿💬

  • The Big 4 Movie

    Movie: The Big 4

    By: Cece Hymes

    The big 4 was about four retired assassins that have to go back in action when the guy that raised them gets killed and his biological daughter Dina takes a vacation to see if she can find out more information on her dad and there are people trying to kill her and the big 4. You have the Sniper, the Leader, the Bad a**, and the Bait. They are family and they look up to their Mentor they call pops.

    Dina doesn’t know what her father really does but she is going to be a cop. The day he was going to give everything up for her he got killed. She thinks she sees the killer and shoots at him. She finds a picture of her dad with other kids and follows the signs to see if she can find more information.

    As she goes on vacation she has to fight to survive. She learns more about the big 4 and what her father really was. It does have some funny parts in this movie you be like really lol. It is a lot of action in it.

    Can you really live 2 lives? It seems like we see a lot of people do it, but I know it has got to be hard. The movie also shows how family sticks together rather you blood or not. It’s not about who had you, it’s about who raised you and showed you love.

    The Big 4 went on retirement for 3 years and now are forced to reconnect to figure out who murdered their Pops and to keep each other alive. This movie shows that they kill people but at the same time they are saving groups of children from human organ trafficking rings. So, it’s like the bad guys being heroes. The big 4 have been trained all their lives to fight.

    Can you just imagine all these kids being trafficked around the world? This is a movie but this is happening in today’s world. I enjoyed this movie, a great action movie that is sad, funny and loving.

    Check it out and let me know what you think. It is definitely going to be part 2 of this movie. Check it out on Netflix.

  • The Best of Me Movie

    Movie: The Best of Me

    By: Cece Hymes

    I love a good book or movie about love. Everyone wants love but to have your best friend and be in love with them is a different kind of love. My motto is that your best friend is your soulmate. This movie was a good movie, it was emotional but good.

    It was about Amanda and Dawson. They went to high school together. Dawson lived with his dad, which the dad didn’t care much about him. He would beat Dawson and didn’t want him going to school. Amanda saw a lot in Dawson and did things to get his attention because she liked him. Dawson runs away and ends up sleeping in a garage where Turk stayed. Turk is an older man that lives alone. His wife passed away and Dawson ended up becoming the son he never had.

    Dawson and Amanda fall in love and become the best of friends. She pushed him onto so many levels. No amount of money or anything can keep them apart until something bad happens. Dawson had to go away for 8 years in prison. He didn’t want Amanda to put her life on hold for him. He wanted her to live her life and not wait on him. He cuts off all visitation with her that breaks both of their hearts.

    21 years have passed, and Turk passed away. He leaves everything to Amanda and Dawson. They hadn’t seen each other for 21 years. Amanda has had 2 kids and gotten married. When Amanda and Dawson have to pack up Turk house, old sparks come back. They never stop loving each other. They were each other’s soulmates and best friends. The type of love they had is hard to find. When they rekindle it’s like it may be too late. She hasn’t been this happy in a long time. When you find someone like that it’s hard to find again. We as people end up settling in a relationship for years with a person we love but not a person we are in love with. You never forget your first love.

    I hate that kids must go through a lot of pain with their parents. Some parents do not deserve to be parents. I don’t want to give the whole movie away, but it is emotional and good. If you like love movies like me. Make sure to watch this on Netflix. Tell me what you think of the movie.

    Comment your thoughts below. What are some good Movies to watch

  • From Scratch

    Tv Series: From Scratch

    By: Cece Hymes

    I usually don’t like watching series, but everyone was talking about this T.V. series, and I love a good love story. When I saw this, it made me so emotional. It’s about an artist that finds romance with a chef in Italy. When it’s time to go back home she brings him back also. He finds that the U.S. is different and it’s very hard for me. Her family treats him badly and was very rude at the beginning. They learn to go through the struggle but to do it together. The love that they have for one another is real. She works hard and he does also. They are finally able to buy a house.

    His family disowns him, but he misses his family, but he sneaks to keep in touch with his sister and mom when the dad is not around. He wants to change this restaurant round and do things like they do in Italy because he knows the food is bad, they’re at the moment. They go through so much, but they always figure out life together.

    He gets sick and he has to go through the cancer spreading. He beats it the first time around, but he still has to check it every year. They decide to adopt to have a family and it’s hard. He stays home while she works, and she feels like she doesn’t get enough time with the family. Then after years he gets sick again.

    When I watched this series, each episode taught me what real love is. It showed me that times get hard, and you have to be able to communicate with your partner. I always say your soulmate is your best friend. This movie shows what couples go through.

    Make sure to check out the T.V. Series and tell me what you think. I want to read the book now. Usually, the book is always better than the movie.

  • Where the Crawdads Sing

    Movie: Where the Crawdads Sing

    Director: Olivia Newman

    By: Cece Hymes

    I had a chance to watch this movie over the weekend. I read the book a while back and the book was great. The movie was also good. It’s about an abandoned girl named Kya who was left by her parents at a young age. She had to figure out how to survive without social services taking her. She always thought her mom would come back for her, so she stayed in the house. She learned how to make her own food, how to make some money, she had two people that donated clothes and shoes to her. Everyone around town thought she was nasty and creepy. She opened herself up to this guy and they became best friends. He teaches her how to read and write. Once she learned to read, he brought her different books all the time and she started writing about nature. She loved birds, feathers, and shells.

    When her best friend tells her he is leaving to go to college she is sad because that’s her only friend. He promised to come back in July and never showed up. She is heartbroken and thinks that everyone leaves her. She meets this other guy. She didn’t love him like her best friend, but she did like to have some company rather than being lonely. One day she was in town, and she ran into him. Come to find out he is engaged to someone else. She tries to stay far away from him, but he just keeps bothering her.

    Her books that she has written get published and she has to go out of town to meet the publishers. They found out that the guy she used to talk to is dead and they blame Kya even though they have no evidence. The whole town always thought bad things about her. She has this lawyer that always thought she was a sweet young lady and he decided to be her lawyer to prove she is innocent.

    Now you have to watch the movie or read the book to see what happens. Could you imagine having to raise yourself from being young to being an adult with no one around to show you how to live close to the swamps and woods. I was very proud of the woman she was or became. I guess at some point in life we all have to teach each other how to survive and grow up. Our parents don’t teach us everything. We just figure out life.

     

    Check out the movie and book and let me know what you think.