Television Review-The Good Witch *Spoiler Alerts*

The Good Witch
Starring Catherine Bell, Bailee Madison, and James Denton
Network: Hallmark Channel
"The Good Witch" began as a series of television movies surrounding the story of Cassie Nightingale and the mysteries of Grey House. The series continues the story of Cassandra (Cassie) Nightingale as she continues life after the death of her husband Jake (her main squeeze in the movies). She is a single parent to Grace (her daughter with Jake) and his children, her stepchildren, Lori and Brandon. In the pilot episode we meet James Denton's Sam who is moving next door to Cassie with his son Nick. Things get stirred up pretty quickly with the new resident in town. However above all else, the town is preparing for a special dedication to Middleton's late police chief, Jake.
The first season of this series is spellbinding (pun intended). "The Good Witch" has successfully carried over the magic of the television movies into the series. Cassie is not your typical witch. She's not constantly casting spells or using her powers to make life easier. Instead she uses her powers or gifts rather to guide people through their problems. She has much wisdom to pass onto her friends, acquaintances and most importantly, her family.
In the finale, Brandon and his wife Tara are trying to make a decision about how to move forward as a couple when they live in two separate places. To remind them of the "magic" of their love, Cassie focuses on the little things to spark the memory of what they had to help them realize that what they had is still what they have. For instance "tricking" Tara to go to the skating rink using Brandon's old ice skates as a ploy. There she supplies her special hot cocoa through third parties. She brings them back together. It's clear that Cassie has come a long way since she first stepped foot in Middleton. The town has accepted her and Grey House as valuable members of the community. It is also apparent that Grace has gifts as well but they're very subtle about their gifts.
I believe "The Good Witch," movies and series alike, captures the heart of a family show that is forgotten and much needed today. I'm also happy to see Catherine Bell in another successful series besides "Army Wives" and "JAG." She truly shines in this role as if this role was specifically written for her.
Bailee Madison, most recently known as her role as young Snow White in ABC's "Once Upon a Time," is all grown up and dazzling as Cassie's daughter Grace. Again it's as if the role was specifically written for her. Not only is the resemblance between Catherine Bell and her uncanny but so is their chemistry as mother/daughter.
The casting is superb. James Denton is a great addition and I think they were smart to keep a good amount of the cast from the movies.
"The Good Witch" is well written and full of life lessons. It's the type of show we're missing in today's society. It's a show that all families should watch. Cassie may have a thing or two to teach you and your children. So give it a go. Season 1 is now streaming on Netflix. Check it out!