Zootopia 2 Review - Now on 4K Ultra HD™ Blu-ray™ and DVD

Disclosure: Complimentary code was received for review purposes

Film Synopsis

In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Zootopia 2, rookie cops Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (voiced by Jason Bateman) find themselves on the twisting trail of a great mystery when Gary De’Snake (voiced by Academy Award® winner Ke Huy Quan) arrives in Zootopia and turns the animal metropolis upside down. To crack the case, Judy and Nick must go undercover to unexpected new parts of town, where their growing partnership is tested like never before.

Zootopia 2 focuses on the misunderstood snakes and how they got such a bad reputation.  Judy and Nick, who are now partners, set out on a mission to find out why the snakes are not allowed in the city, while unscrupulous officials try to stop them from uncovering the truth.

The partnership between Judy and Nick go through ups and downs (literally) in the movie as they search for answers and find themselves in peculiar and scary situations.

And once they find the answers they were looking for, they take accountability of their issues and vow to be better partners.

Zootopia 2 features many familiar faces from the first film, and lots of fun new characters.  It's a movie full of adventure, humor, and thrill, as well as compassion and empathy.

And at the heart of the movie is a story about how differences are not weaknesses, as Nick explains to new recruits that we're more alike than we think we're different.  If we just take the time to talk to and listen to one another - our differences could actually make us stronger.

Wise words that humans in today's world should heed.

Zootopia 2 is now on 4k Ultra HD Blu-ray and DVD!

Bonus Features*

• Featurettes:

o   The Zookeepers — Trot along with writer/director Jared Bush and director Byron Howard for a tour of Walt Disney Animation Studios! Get a behind the scenes look as they open up the doors to meet cast and crew and share about all the work done to bring the movie to life.

o   A City of Stars — Meet the fur-tastic voice actors behind the cast of Zootopia 2 as filmmakers share the joy of having the original cast returning and how each new role found its purr-fect match.

o   Everybody Can Draw! — Sketch along with Benson Shum, Animation Supervisor, as he talks about his role on Zootopia 2 and guides viewers in drawing everyone’s favorite new beaver, Nibbles!

o   Zoo-prising Secrets — Uncover ssssurprising references and characters from some of your favorite Walt Disney Animation Studios films hidden throughout the movie, along with fun facts.

o   Wilde Times in the Booth — Hop inside the recording booth for plenty of laughs and behind-the-scenes fun. See how the hilarious cast brings their characters to life!

o   The Treat Trolley — Meet the cheerful crew behind the Treat Trolley that brings smiles and snacks throughout the halls of Disney Animation to keep the studio artists fueled and energized.

o   "Zoo" Music Video by Shakira — Celebrate friendship and adventure with Shakira in her music video for the movie’s new song, “Zoo.”

 

• Deleted Scenes – Check out the scenes that didn’t make the final cut, with an overall introduction by directors Jared Bush and Byron Howard.

• What's In the Box?

• Where Are They Now?
• Animal Hospital

• Welcome to the Team

• Desert Festival

• Clawhauser Tracks Judy

• A Plight at the Museum

• Clawhauser's Family

 

*Bonus features vary by product and retailer

 

Feature Run Time

Approx. 108 minutes

 

Rating

PG

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Freakier Friday Review - Now on Blu-ray!

Disclosure: Complimentary code was given for review purposes.

Film Synopsis

Freakier Friday picks up years after Tess (Jamie Lee Curtis) and Anna (Lindsay Lohan) endured an identity crisis. Anna now has a daughter of her own and a soon-to-be stepdaughter. As they navigate the myriad challenges that come when two families merge, Tess and Anna discover that lightning might indeed strike twice. 

Review:

No one in the family had watched Freaky Friday before, so we made sure to watch it before watching Freakier Friday.

To sum up Freakier Friday in a single sentence, my youngest son said "It’s the same as Freaky Friday, but more complicated."

Anna is now a single mom, who gets help from Tess from time to time. Anna ends up falling in love with a man who happens to be the father of her daughter's (Harper) nemesis (Lily).

Emotions are high as the two families plan a future as one, as the daughters are against the blending of the families.

One night, at Anna's bachelorette party, they meet a psychic, and subsequently there is a literal shake-up amongst the four people, in which they experience an earthquake and wake up in someone else's body - Anna and Harper exchanged bodies, and Lily and Tess exchanged as well.

It was quite funny and impressive to watch Curtis portray a shocked and unhappy Lily, who is quite high maintenance, in an elder woman's body.

As they all pretended to be each other, the younger girls planned to do whatever they could to break up the wedding.

And they were nearly successful.

But by stepping in someone else's shoes and living life as another, they were able to discover secrets of sacrifice and heartbreak, hope and love, while realizing that they all really need each other after all.

Although I enjoyed Freaky Friday more, Freakier Friday was still amusing and clever, and I think portraying a character who is acting as another character takes a lot of skill. My son enjoyed the movie as well, and his favorite part of the movie was the Pink Slip performance.

Digital & Blu-ray Bonus Materials*

• Deleted Scenes – Check out the scenes that didn’t make the final cut.

• Trevor's New Song
• Extended Dance Lesson 
• Anna Cancels Wedding 
• Pickleball Team Announcements 
• Beta Girl Backs Up Lily 
• Intensity Of The V's 
  Blake Doesn't Like What She Hears 
• Malibu 
• Eric Reads Tess's Books 
• School Pickup 

 

• Featurettes:

• Making Things Freakier – More than two decades later, the band is back together! Go behind the scenes as returning cast members talk about reprising their roles. Learn about the stunts, taking on each other’s mannerisms – and how this film is a love letter to Los Angeles.

 

• Where Were You When... – Join the original cast as they reflect on the fun and magic of the 2003 production and learn where new cast members were in 2003. Writer Jordan Weiss shares a great anecdote that reveals the fandom and staying power of the earlier classic.

 

• Flashback Friday – This playful, narrated piece reveals the hidden nods to 2003’s Freaky Fridayalong with some “freakier” fun facts about the sequel.

 

• "Baby" Lyric Music Video – Catch this heartfelt lyric video that combines clips from the movie with behind-the-scenes production footage.

 

*Bonus features may vary by product and retailer

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Moana 2 Review - Now Available on Digital

A digital code was received for review purposes.  

In November of last year, Moana 2 debuted with much anticipation, especially in Hawaiʻi, where much of the movie, such as the cultural traditions and customs, resonate with the locals, and of course stars Auliʻi Cravalho (as Moana) and Dwayne Johnson (as Maui) grew up in Hawaiʻi.

Moana 2 is now available on digital (to be released on 4K UHD, Blu-ray and DVD March 18), and below is our review, with input from one of my kids (spoiler alert!). 

Synopsis: Moana 2 reunites Moana and Maui three years later for an expansive new voyage alongside a crew of unlikely seafarers.  After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana must journey to the far seas of Oceania and into dangerous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike anything she’s ever faced.

Review:
While out exploring an island, Moana, Hei Hei, and Pua stumbled upon an artifact, signifying human life on other islands. Excited, Moana returns home to tell her parents. Later than night, members from the village participate in a kava drinking ceremony, during which Moana has a vision and was given a mission to find the island of Motefetū. 

She soon sets off with a trusted crew, gets diverted to help other islanders, and stumbles upon Maui.  Reunited with Maui, Moana and the crew all set out to find Motefetū. 

On their journey, they face numerous environmental and otherworldly challenges, but they work as a team to complete their mission, which culminates in some "chicken skin" moments when other wayfarers find their way to Motefetū.  

Don't miss the post-credits scene, which sets up a third movie!

My son really enjoyed when the "coconut dudes," the Kakamora, were introduced.  He also loved the special appearance by Tamatoa. 

His favorite parts of the movie were when Moana talked to her ancestors, how she teamed up with the Kakamora, and when people from other islands appeared at Motefetū.

The lessons of perseverance and not giving up despite failures or getting off track were very important, and also of great importance were the lessons of respecting our ancestors and elders, and protecting our resources and passing on knowledge for future generations.

Moana 2 was full of adventure and humor, and is an empowering and inspirational movie.  It was wonderful to see Polynesian culture represented, as well as cultural aspects such as wayfinding, kava, dance, storytelling, and chanting.  I was very impressed with how the animation really captured the significance of the ocean, and how it connects us all.  

 

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Review - The Banshees of Insherin

 Disclosure: A complimentary code was received for review purposes.

Synopsis
From director-writer Martin McDonagh (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri) comes a unique film starring Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson. Although Pádraic (Farrell) and Colm (Gleeson) have been lifelong friends, they find themselves at an impasse when one abruptly ends their relationship, bringing alarming consequences for both of them.

The Banshees of Insherin has received critical acclaim since it's release, most recently garnering Oscar nominations for nine categories, including Best Picture and Best Actor.

It's a solemn, humorous, and authentic portrayal of life in a remote Ireland island of Insherin during the Irish Civil War in the 20s.  

There are no luxuries, as most residents live and work humbly day after day, and find themselves at the local pub night after night.  

Padraic and Colm, the best of friends, would head to the pub together every day, until one day, their ritual stopped.  Unbeknownst to Padraic, Colm decided he didn't want to be friends with him anymore, as he found him to be dull.  Colm preferred to focus on his music rather than listen to Padraic ramble daily.

Refusing to believe that Colm no longer liked him, even after Colm threatened to chop off his fingers if Padraic talked to him anymore, Padraic relentlessly tried to get back his old pal.

There were glimmers of hope and signs of the old camaraderie, but when Colm did the unthinkable, and chopped off a finger after Padraic talked to him, Padraic knew things were serious.

Padraic's pain at losing his best friend was palpable, and it was more so when he lost the most important living being in his life because of the actions of Colm.  Ultimately their irreparable relationship and inability to compromise caused suffering not only for themselves, but those around them, paralleling what wars do to innocent people.

The Banshees of Insherin is a very thought-provoking movie, and I felt so much empathy for the characters.  There were those who were looking for a better life beyond Insherin, those looking for love, and those simply looking for acceptance.  

The performances of the cast were incredible, and very deserving of all of the awards and accolades.  

The Baneshees of Insherin is available on digital platforms, as well as select theaters nationwide.

 

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Turning Red Review

I received a complimentary code to review the movie.

Available on all major digital platforms 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD is Disney and Pixar's Turning Red. 

Synopsis:

In Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red, confident, dorky 13-year-old Mei must balance being a dutiful daughter with the chaos of adolescence. Her slightly overbearing mom is never far from her daughter. And, as if changes to Mei’s interests, relationships and body aren’t enough, whenever she gets too excited, she “poofs” into a giant red panda!

Disney and Pixar did it again with such a fun family film that's engaging and insightful, while humorous and adventurous.

I really enjoyed how Disney wasn't afraid to broach the topic of adolescence and puberty, helping to normalize the mood swings, body changes, and peer pressure that tweens and teens have to face, as well as the challenges their parents encounter in dealing with their growing children.  

The movie really hit home in many ways.  From learning when to "let go" of your children and allowing them to live and learn through their mistakes, to worrying about who their friends are, I could really relate to Mei's mom.  I could also relate to Mei and her friends as well when I was their age, as they discovered their attraction to boys and their fondness for boy bands, specifically 4*Town. 

I distinctly remember being in middle school when a popular boy band came in to town, and I eagerly went to see them in concert (twice!).

My youngest son really enjoyed the movie as well, especially when Mei's mom turned into an enormous red panda herself.   

The animation was fantastic (the cooking scene was spectacular), and the lessons of trust, guidance, and respect are ones that all families can relate to in some fashion

.

Bonus Features*

● Audio Commentary – View the film with audio commentary by director Domee Shi, producer Lindsey Collins, and director of photography Mahyar Abousaeedi.

● Featurettes

○ Life of a Shot – Domee Shi and members of the crew describe the many- layered process and artistry involved in creating the hilarious Red Peony scene – from observing red pandas in a zoo to creating a storyboard to finalizing the animation and background lighting.
○ Build Your Own Boy Band – Step backstage to learn how 4*TOWN came to animated life. From creating each band member’s persona to writing and producing the songs to fine-tuning the details of their stadium performance, the filmmakers reveal how they designed the ultimate boy band.
○ Ani-Mei-Tion – Because Mei’s heightened emotionality is central to the story, it was important that her look and movement reflect that energy. Learn how Domee Shi led the animation team to incorporate hints of expressive anime to create Mei’s lovable, dynamic character.

● Deleted Scenes
○ Deleted Scenes Introduction – Director Domee Shi introduces scenes not included in the final version of Turning Red.
○ Intro Meilin – In this alternate opening, Ming and young Mei have their portrait taken in a studio…but Ming has her own specific vision for the photo.
○ Taming The Panda – Under her mother's guidance, Mei learns techniques to control her ability to magically turn into a red panda...to varying degrees of success.
○ The Debate – Mei runs for class president against frenemy Tyler, and the speeches get a little out of hand.

○ Fei And Christina Hang – Mei (formerly Fei) shares a banana split while having a heart-to-heart with Aunt Christina.

○ 4*TOWN Dilemma – Mei scores tickets to her dream concert, but her strict mother won't let her out of the house. What will she do?

○ Roping In Leo – Pleading with Leo for help with getting out of trouble, Mei learns a couple of his closely guarded secrets.
● Easter Egg - Robutton Deleted Scene – An alternate ending in which Mei, finding herself sitting next to her 4*TOWN dream-idol Robaire on a flight to California, has some feelings.

*bonus features vary by product and retailer

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Review: Summer of Soul

Disclosure: I received a complimentary code to watch this movie.

Film Synopsis

Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson presents a powerful and transporting documentary—part music film, part historical record created around an epic event that celebrated Black history, culture and fashion. Over the course of six weeks in the summer of 1969, just one hundred miles south of Woodstock, The Harlem Cultural Festival was filmed in Mount Morris Park (now Marcus Garvey Park). The footage was largely forgotten–until now. Summer of Soul shines a light on the importance of history to our spiritual well-being and stands as a testament to the healing power of music during times of unrest, both past and present.  The feature includes concert performances by Stevie Wonder, Nina Simone, Sly & the Family Stone, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Mahalia Jackson, B.B. King, The 5th Dimension and more.

 

Watching the Summer of Soul was like watching a concert and being in a history class all at once.  It was fascinating to learn all about The Harlem Cultural Festival, which took place at the same time as Woodstock.  Most people have heard about Woodstock, but they haven't heard about The Harlem Cultural Festival.  I am one of them.

The Harlem Cultural Festival showcased a young Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight & the Pips, Nina Simone, and more in a free multi-weekend concert for over 50,000 people of all ages.  

It is astounding that this amazing moment in time - and such a significant part of Black and musical history - was forgotten about in a basement.  The music, the newsworthy events, the fashions, the political climate of the time were captured on film, and to watch it in present day not only emphasizes how music can transcend time, but how it can help empower and motivate individuals.  

I learned so much about the history and perspectives of that time (I wasn't born yet), and watching the performances and learning about the artists was a real treat.

I especially enjoyed when some of the artists watched the footage for the first time - the raw emotion they exhibited once they realized the magnitude of the festival was so special to witness.

Summer of Soul is such a great documentary - a time capsule of a momentous time in history that should be shared with all.

Summer of Soul is available on Digital and DVD.

Bonus Features*

• Audio Commentary – View the film with audio commentary by director Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson.
• Soul Searching – A behind-the-scenes look at Summer of Soul. We’ll learn about where the footage from the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival has been, how it was uncovered, and why director Ahmir "Questlove" Thompson decided to tell this story now.
• Harlem: Then & Now – We revisit Mount Morris Park, location of the Harlem Cultural Festival. We learn how the neighborhood was a crossroads of culture and precarious politics and explore why Summer of Soul is so relevant during this present time of great political upheaval.

 

*bonus features vary by product and retailer     

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Disney's Jungle Cruise Review

Disney's Jungle Cruise is currently available on digital, and will be on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD on November 16.

Synopsis

Seeking an ancient tree with healing abilities, Dr. Lily Houghton and wisecracking skipper Frank Wolff team up for the adventure-of-a lifetime on Disney’s Jungle Cruise, a rollicking ride down the Amazon. Amidst danger and supernatural forces lurking in the jungle, secrets of the lost tree unfold as their fate—and mankind’s—hangs in the balance.

We were able to get a screening to code to watch Disney's Jungle Cruise digitally, and we really enjoyed this wholesome adventure movie (warning - some spoilers ahead)!

My kids enjoyed the action-packed movie, which was full of thrilling scenes and lots of humor.

We watched Dr. Lily and Skipper Frank on their journey through the jungle to collect petals from the Tears of the Moon tree, which has the power to cure numerous human ailments.  

Of course, this is no easy feat, as there are scrupulous individuals who want the petals too.

 

One of my kid's favorite scenes involved submarine missiles during an exciting chase between "the good and bad guys."

The special effects were fantastic, and my youngest son was in awe when the Tears of the Moon tree bloomed into a beautiful, magical sight.

I personally enjoyed how the scripts and scenes were identical to what one would experience on the actual Jungle Cruise ride at Disney Parks (eg. the "back of water;" working in an orange juice factory, but getting "canned").  Johnson did a great job nailing the amiable skippers we'd encounter on the rides, and all of their corny jokes and puns.   

It's always a treat to watch Dwayne Johnson on screen, who grew up right here in Hawai`i, as well as the talented Emily Blunt.  

Jungle Cruise was funny and engaging, and definitely a film for the entire family to enjoy. 

Disney’s Jungle Cruise Bonus Features*

• Jungle Cruise Expedition Mode – Climb aboard a ramshackle tramp steamer (or your own couch) to learn fun facts, discover Easter eggs and catch some pop-up trivia throughout the movie.
• It’s A Jungle Out There: Making Jungle Cruise – Director Jaume Collet-Serra, the cast and crew discuss the importance of the film's elements, from casting to makeup to the use of an ancient indigenous language, in creating the world that honors one of Disneyland's most beloved rides.
• Dwayne And Emily: Undoubtedly Funny – Go on-set with the two stars, whose new-found friendship helped them project a natural onscreen chemistry. Although their characters challenge each other throughout the film, the actors make each other laugh. A lot!
• Creating The Amazon – Explore the cinematic artistry involved in creating the world of Jungle Cruise, including how Frank's boat coursed "dangerous" water in a tank in Atlanta, how a town was built in Kauai, and how a ferocious jaguar came to life, among other amazing effects.
• Once A Skip, Always A Skip – Join a panel of "Skippers" at the Disneyland Resort as they reminisce about the rewards, challenges and surprises they’ve experienced while helming the world-famous Jungle Cruise attraction, and hear their advice to aspiring skippers everywhere!
• Outtakes – Step behind the scenes of the production to catch the cast in a series of flubs, falls, foibles -- and a whole lot of laughter.
• Deleted Scenes
  • MacGregor Drives The Boat
  • MacGregor Water Skis
  • Joachim And Nilo On The Dock
  • Frank Talks To Proxima & Lily's Nightmares
  • Sub Gets Stuck
  • Proxima Surprises MacGregor
  • Frank Gets The Cold Shoulder
  • Trader Sam And Lily Walk In The Jungle
  • MacGregor And Trader Sam Say Goodbye
  • Frank Makes Tea For Lily
  • The Backside Of Water

*bonus features vary by product and retailer

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Magnolia Pictures' STRAY - Releases on March 5

I had a chance to watch a screener of Magnolia Pictures' STRAY, which releases on March 5. 

Synopsis:

STRAY explores what it means to live as a being without status or security, following three strays as they embark on inconspicuous journeys through Turkish society. Zeytin, fiercely independent, embarks on adventures through the city at night; Nazar, nurturing and protective, easily befriends the humans around her; while Kartal, a shy puppy living on the outskirts of a construction site, finds companions in the security guards who care for her. The strays’ disparate lives intersect when they each form intimate bonds with a group of young Syrians with whom they share the streets. Director Elizabeth Lo’s award-winning film is a critical observation of human civilization through the unfamiliar gaze of dogs and a sensory voyage into new ways of seeing.

You don't have to be a dog-owner or even a dog-lover to enjoy STRAY.  This film is viewed from dogs' perspectives, and at its core, the film makes viewers really think about others - not just other human beings, or other cultures, but other species.  

Director Elizabeth Lo calls into question anthropocentrism, which is the belief that the universe centers around human beings. By following dogs over the course of 6 months in Turkey, which has a no kill, no capture law, we get a sense of what life is like a dog - not a pet dog, but one that lives freely, and has to find her own way in life.

Whether navigating streets, searching for food, or finding companionship, the dogs, just like humans, must learn which dogs to trust, which dogs to stay away from, what places are safe, and what places are not.

But unlike humans, they live day to day. They don't mask their true feelings. And they don't pretend to be something they're not.

This is reinforced by one of the many quotes shown throughout the film:

“Human beings live artificially and hypocritically and would do well to study  the dog.” 

- DIOGENES OF SINOPE, 360 B.C.

STRAY gives us a fascinating glimpse into the life of a dog, as well as a peek into life in Turkey.

It's an engaging film that still has me thinking about our purpose on this Earth, as well as that of a dog.

Visit https://www.straymovie.com/ to find out how you can watch STRAY.

 

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Review: The Croods: A New Age

We were fortunate to get a rental code to watch The Croods: A New Age. 

Synopsis: The Croods have survived their fair share of dangers and disasters, from fanged prehistoric beasts to surviving the end of the world, but now they will face their biggest challenge of all: another family.

The Croods stumbled upon the home of the Bettermans. The Bettermans had a shower, elevator, lots of food, and even privacy. Being new to all of these "luxuries," the Bettermans felt the Croods were undeserving of them.

A series of events took place that created tension between the two families, until they realized they had to work together to save Guy, Phil, and Grug from a Spiny Mandrilla - a huge monkey-like creature.

There were many parts of the movie that my son kept giggling at.  One part was when Phil, Grug, and Guy were kidnapped by Punch Monkeys, and Phil and Grug had to battle each other.

Another of my son's favorite parts was when the Thunder Sisters were given new tribe names. Everyone got a cool name, except for Thunk, who was given "Thunk."

The Croods: A New Age was full of colorful, animated scenes, as well as thoughtful lessons, such as not to be afraid to let your kids explore and experience all the ups and downs of life; don't judge someone by what they have or don't have; accept people for who they are.

 

The Croods: A New Age is On Demand.

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A Dog's Journey Review

A Dog's Journey (Rated PG)
Some friendships transcend lifetimes. In A Dog’s Journey, the sequel to the heartwarming global hit A Dog’s Purpose, beloved dog Bailey finds his new destiny and forms an unbreakable bond that will lead him, and the people he loves, to places they never imagined.

Bailey (voiced again by Josh Gad) is living the good life on the Michigan farm of his “boy,” Ethan (Dennis Quaid) and Ethan’s wife Hannah (Marg Helgenberger). He even has a new playmate: Ethan and Hannah’s baby granddaughter, CJ. The problem is that CJ’s mom, Gloria (Betty Gilpin), decides to take CJ away. As Bailey’s soul prepares to leave this life for a new one, he makes a promise to Ethan to find CJ and protect her at any cost.

Thus begins Bailey’s adventure through multiple lives filled with love, friendship and devotion as he, CJ (Kathryn Prescott), and CJ’s best friend Trent (Henry Lau) experience joy and heartbreak, music and laughter, and few really good belly rubs.

Hawaii Dad Blog Review

The movie begins with Bailey living on a Michigan farm with Ethan and his wife, Hannah. Also living with them are their toddler granddaughter, CJ, and their daughter-in-law, the recently widowed, Gloria (Hannah's son died just before CJ was born). Gloria feels Ethan and Hannah see her as an unfit mother (she is one), and even accuses them of wanting to take CJ away from her to get the money from an insurance payout. Eventually, Gloria leaves for Chicago, taking CJ with her in a heartbreaking scene. Bailey is a source of comfort for the grieving couple until he needs to be put down due to a medical condition. Ethan holds the dog in his final moments and tells Bailey's that his purpose is to always look after CJ.

Throughout the remainder of the movie, Bailey's spirit moves in and out of the bodies of several dogs over their respective life spans. 

Each dog will seek out and find CJ as she grows and deals with an alcoholic and neglectful mother, an abusive boyfriend,and a case of stage fright which hampers her burgeoning music career.

Although there are several different "dog bodies," the spirit of Bailey is consistent and we, the viewer, know this because Bailey's thoughts are voiced by the same actor, Josh Gadd. He provides comedic relief by seeing situations as, I'd imagine, a dog would. Sometimes his commentary would balance out an intense scene, and other times it would show a dog's intuition, such as when he thinks that Gloria smells strong (because she's drunk) or when he senses that Hannah is upset (because she was losing her granddaughter).

A Dog's Journey is a sequel to A Dog's Purpose, but if you did not see the first movie, you will still enjoy the second one.

A Dog's Journey really knows how to pull at the heartstrings.  My son enjoyed the movie because of the cute dogs and poop jokes, but overall, it is a great family movie - perfect for dog-lovers and anyone who enjoys a heartwarming tale. 

I may look at dogs different now, as I wonder if my long gone Pomeranian is trying to find me...

Mahalo to the sponsor for the complimentary tickets.

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How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World Review

How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World (Rated PG)

From DreamWorks Animation comes a surprising tale about growing up, finding the courage to face the unknown ... and how nothing can ever train you to let go. What began as an unlikely friendship between an adolescent Viking and a fearsome Night Fury dragon has become an epic adventure spanning their lives. Welcome to the most astonishing chapter of one of the most beloved animated franchises in film history: How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World.

Now chief and ruler of Berk alongside Astrid, Hiccup has created a gloriously chaotic dragon utopia. When the sudden appearance of a female Light Fury coincides with the darkest threat their village has ever faced, Hiccup and Toothless must leave the only home they've known and journey to a hidden world thought only to exist in myth. As their true destines are revealed, dragon and rider will fight together—to the very ends of the Earth—to protect everything they've grown to treasure.

For How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, series director Dean DeBlois returns alongside the all-star cast. The film is produced by Brad Lewis (Ratatouille, ANTZ) and Bonnie Arnold (Toy Story, How to Train Your Dragon, How to Train Your Dragon 2).

Hawaii Dad Blog Review:

How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World begins with what my youngest son said was his favorite scene: Hiccup and his friends, along with Toothless and the other dragons, sneak onto a dragon trapper ship to free several caged dragons. An exciting battle ensues, and the heroes are successful in releasing the trapped dragons.

However, they do not realize that they've left behind a white, female Night Fury. When the trappers tell the notorious dragon slayer, Grimmel the Grisly, about Hiccup and Toothless, he is shocked because he'd thought he had killed all of the Night Furies. He decides to use the female to lure Toothless to him.

Hiccup, now the chief of his village, is dealing with an overpopulation of dragons, as well as his insecurities of living up to his father in addition to the expectations that he and Astrid should get married. When he learns that Grimmel is now hunting Toothless, he makes the tough decision to abandon their homeland and search for The Hidden World that his father had once told him about - a place where dragons could live freely.

I was pleasantly surprised with How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World. It was full of adventure, humor, and awesome animation and visuals.  Scenes between dragons were reflective of nature documentaries - compelling, intriguing, and so realistic. 

My kids enjoyed the movie, and overall it is a very entertaining, family-friendly film. 

If you plan to see How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, I'd suggest brushing up on the previous two installments first if you aren't a hard core fan. However, even if you go in as a relative newbie, this movie will still prove to be a funny, touching and visually stunning experience.  

How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World is in theaters now.
Mahalo to the sponsor for the screening tickets.

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Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald Review

Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald (Rated PG-13) Synopsis:
Warner Bros. Pictures’ Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald is the second of five all new adventures in J.K. Rowling’s Wizarding World™.

At the end of the first film, the powerful Dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald (Johnny Depp) was captured by MACUSA (Magical Congress of the United States of America), with the help of Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne). But, making good on his threat, Grindelwald escaped custody and has set about gathering followers, most unsuspecting of his true agenda: to raise pure-blood wizards up to rule over all non-magical beings.

In an effort to thwart Grindelwald’s plans, Albus Dumbledore (Jude Law) enlists his former student Newt Scamander, who agrees to help, unaware of the dangers that lie ahead. Lines are drawn as love and loyalty are tested, even among the truest friends and family, in an increasingly divided Wizarding World.

Hawaii Dad Blog Review:
The movie starts out with the escape of Grindelwald during his extradition back to Britain from his American cell. The powerful Grindelwald wants to rule over the no-maj population with his fellow wizards. To help him in this quest, he seeks out the young and gifted Credence, who has relocated to Paris in hopes of finding his real family. Magizoologist Newt Scamander reluctantly agrees to help stop Grindelwald by finding Credence first.

I felt the movie fell short in keeping the audience engaged.  Although my son did identify a few humorous parts in the movie, I felt somewhat disinterested in the main characters, and was wanting to see more of the secondary characters, Jacob and Queenie, who were very entertaining in the previous installment. 

The actions scenes were visually stunning and the cinematography was good, however, the first installment simply had so much more to offer.  

Hard core Harry Potter fans may enjoy the movie, but if you are unfamiliar with the series at all, you may find the movie very difficult to understand or even enjoy. 

Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald is now in theaters.  Get tickets here.

Mahalo to the sponsor for the screening tickets.

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Smallfoot Review

Smallfoot (Rated PG)
An animated adventure for all ages, with original music and an all-star cast, Smallfoot turns a myth upside down when a bright young yeti finds something he thought didn’t exist—a human.

News of this “smallfoot” throws the simple yeti community into an uproar over what else might be out there in the big world beyond their snowy village, in an all new story about friendship, courage and the joy of discovery.

Smallfoot stars Channing Tatum (The LEGO® Batman Movie, the Jump Street films) as the yeti, Migo, and James Corden (Trolls, The Emoji Movie) as the Smallfoot, Percy. Also starring are Zendaya (Spider-Man: Homecoming), Common (Selma), LeBron James (upcoming Space Jam 2), Danny DeVito (The Lorax, Oscar nominee for Erin Brockovich), Gina Rodriguez (Jane the Virgin), Yara Shahidi (TV’s Black-ish), Ely Henry (TV’s Justice League Action), and Jimmy Tatro (22 Jump Street).

Smallfoot is directed by Karey Kirkpatrick, Annie Award-winning director of Over the Hedge and Annie nominee for the screenplays for Chicken Run and James and the Giant Peach. The screenplay is by Kirkpatrick and Clare Sera, screen story by John Requa & Glenn Ficarra and Kirkpatrick, based on the book Yeti Tracks, by Sergio Pablos.

The film is produced by Bonne Radford (Curious George), Glenn Ficarra (Storks, This is Us,) and John Requa (Storks, This is Us). Serving as executive producers are Nicholas Stoller, Phil Lord, Christopher Miller, Jared Stern, Karey Kirkpatrick, Sergio Pablos, Courtenay Valenti, and Allison Abbate. The creative team includes editor Peter Ettinger, and composer Heitor Pereira. Animation is by Sony Pictures Imageworks.

Hawaii Dad Blog Review:

Smallfoot starts off by introducing us to a group of yetis who live atop a mountain above the clouds. Their leader, the Stonekeeper, orders them to follow the rules of the stones.  The yetis perform seemingly meaningless daily tasks, and are discouraged from asking any questions.  

One day, Migo, a young yeti rule-follower, crosses paths with a "Smallfoot," a pilot whose plane crashed near their village. When Migo tries to tell the other yetis what he saw, he is exiled from the village.

Migo joins up with a few others who have formed a secret group of yeti conspiracy theorists. They believe Migo and help him go below the clouds (where the stones have told them not to go) to find the Smallfoot and bring him back to prove he was telling the truth.

Smallfoot was quite funny. I especially liked the ode to the old Looney Toons cartoons.  My son liked the small yeti, Fleem, who had many of the funniest lines.

Aside from the laughs, Smallfoot also delivered a worthy message - don't be afraid to get to know others who are different from you, which is good advice in this day and age.

I thought the voice actors all did a great job, and I really enjoyed how the characters would break into song throughout the movie. I felt that it really added to the entertainment factor, and it also helped move the story along. 

Smallfoot is a great movie for families with young kids.

Mahalo to the sponsor for the screening tickets.

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Teen Titans GO! to the Movies Review

Teen Titans GO! to the Movies (Rated PG) Synopsis:
When the Teen Titans go to the big screen, they go big! Teen Titans GO! to the Movies finds our egocentric, wildly satirical Super Heroes in their first feature film extravaganza—a fresh, gleefully clever, kid-appropriately crass and tongue-in-cheek play on the superhero genre, complete with musical numbers.

It seems to the Teens that all the major superheroes out there are starring in their own movies—everyone but the Teen Titans, that is! But de facto leader Robin is determined to remedy the situation, and be seen as a star instead of a sidekick. If only they could get the hottest Hollywood film director to notice them. With a few madcap ideas and a song in their heart, the Teen Titans head to Tinsel Town, certain to pull off their dream. But when the group is radically misdirected by a seriously Super-Villain and his maniacal plan to take over the Earth, things really go awry. The team finds their friendship and their fighting spirit failing, putting the very fate of the Teen Titans themselves on the line!

Will Arnett (The LEGO® Batman Movie) and Kristen Bell (Frozen) lend their voices to the first-ever big-screen version of DC Entertainment and Cartoon Network’s animated TV show, which also stars Greg Cipes (TV’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) as Beast Boy, Scott Menville (TV’s Spider-Man) as Robin, Khary Payton (The Walking Dead) as Cyborg, Tara Strong (the My Little Pony franchise) as Raven, and Hynden Walch (TV’s Adventure Time with Finn & Jake) as Starfire, reprising their roles from the series.

Hawaii Dad Blog Review:
Teen Titans GO! to the Movies centers round the group's longing to be in a superhero movie like their fellow DC superheroes.  True to form, Robin becomes obsessed with breaking out of his sidekick role and breaking into the spotlight, even if it's at the expense of Cyborg, Starfire, Beast Boy, and Raven. He reaches out to the hot Hollywood director, Jade Wilson (Kristen Bell), to get her to give him his own movie. He also tries to develop an archenemy relationship with the villain, Slade (Will Arnett), in hopes that their rivalry will cause others to see him as a serious superhero.

Teen Titans GO! to the Movies had a good dose of the typical smart humor that I’ve always enjoyed on the TV series. The cheesy songs that fans are familiar with from the TV show are present in the movie as well. I thought it was cool how many stars, such as Nicholas Cage, Halsey, Patton Oswalt, and Jimmy Kimmel lent their voice to the movie. There’s also one very unexpected cameo that was a joy to see.

Teen Titans GO! to the Movies was a great movie.  Any Teen Titans GO! will find it enjoyable.  My son is a Teen Titans GO! fan himself, and he thoroughly enjoyed it.

GO! to the Movies and catch the Teen Titans on the big screen!

Mahalo to the sponsor for the screening tickets.

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Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation Review

Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation (Rated PG) is now in theaters!

Synopsis:
In Sony Pictures Animation’s Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation, join our favorite monster family as they embark on a vacation on a luxury monster cruise ship so Drac can take a summer vacation from providing everyone else’s vacation at the hotel. It’s smooth sailing for Drac’s Pack as the monsters indulge in all of the shipboard fun the cruise has to offer, from monster volleyball to exotic excursions, and catching up on their moon tans. But the dream vacation turns into a nightmare when Mavis realizes Drac has fallen for the mysterious captain of the ship, Ericka, who hides a dangerous secret that could destroy all of monsterkind.

Hawaii Dad Blog Review:
In Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation,  Mavis plans a surprise cruise for the whole clan with the goal of providing a relaxing, family bonding getaway for her father, Drac.  Unbeknownst to Mavis, Dracula has been feeling lonely recently and has been longing to find love.

The cruise kicks off in the Bermuda Triangle where Drac gets his first glimpse of the human cruise ship captain, Ericka, and it's love-at-first-sight. Unfortunately for Drac, Ericka’s last name is Van Helsing, and she’s been raised by her great-grandfather to hate monsters, especially him, so she hatches a plan to destroy all the monsters on her ship.

Will Ericka succeed with her plan? Or will she instead realize that monsters are just like people and reciprocate Drac’s feelings? 

Being that this is an animated movie geared toward kids, the plot is quite predictable.  

Although my sons laughed throughout the movie, overall I felt Summer vacation fell flat in terms of the liveliness and jokes compared with the first two installments of Hotel Transylvania.  

I did, however, enjoy a few scenes (those who grew up in the 80s will probably enjoy the same ones).

Although I was expecting more from Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation, the animation was great, and little ones will enjoy it!

Mahalo to the sponsor for the screening tickets. 

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Rampage Movie Review

Rampage (PG-13) is now in theaters!

Synopsis:
Global icon Dwayne Johnson headlines the action-adventure Rampage, directed by Brad Peyton.

Johnson stars as primatologist Davis Okoye, a man who keeps people at a distance but shares an unshakable bond with George, the extraordinarily intelligent, incredibly rare albino silverback gorilla who has been in his care since he rescued the young orphan from poachers. But a rogue genetic experiment gone awry mutates this gentle ape into a raging creature of enormous size.

To make matters worse, it’s soon discovered there are other similarly altered animals. As these newly created alpha predators tear across North America, destroying everything in their path, Okoye teams with discredited geneticist Kate Caldwell (Naomie Harris) to secure an antidote, fighting his way through an ever-changing battlefield, not only to halt a global catastrophe but to save the fearsome creature that was once his friend.

Hawaii Dad Blog Review:
Johnson stars as Primatologist Davis Okoye, who gets along better with the primates he studies than with his human co-workers. He especially bonds with an albino gorilla named George, with whom he is able to communicate through sign language. A rogue genetic experiment in space goes terribly wrong, resulting in George mutating into an enormous and out of control monster. In other parts of the country, other animals also get mutated and they all head toward the responsible company's headquarters in Chicago, wreaking havoc as they go. Davis and the company's former genetic engineer, Dr. Kate Caldwell (Naomie Harris), race to find an antidote to save both George and the city of Chicago from the giant animal rampage, as well as the military's attempts to stop them.

Rampage is based on an old eighties video game of the same name. I was disappointed that the charismatic Johnson didn’t seem to have his usual magic. The special effects were a bit too cheesy, but kids may find them impressive.  

Speaking of kids, there is quite a bit of swearing, but overall the violence is rather mild and not too extreme.  I was expecting a bit more from the movie, but my son enjoyed it, and it was a fun diversion for a couple of hours.  

Get your tickets to Rampage here.

Mahalo to the sponsor for tickets.

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Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle Movie Review

You know those movie classics that you can watch over and over?  Well, the original 1995 Jumanji starring Robin Williams is mine.  If it's on tv, I will watch it.  If we're searching for a movie to watch, I will suggest it.  I loved the fantasy and adventure of the story as well as all that foreboding drumming.

Fast forward 22 years and we are now being treated to Sony Pictures' Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle.  The sequel brings the audience a new adventure as four teenagers serving detention together get sucked into the Jumanji video game and into the bodies of their chosen avatars, played by Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart, Jack Black, and Karen Gillan.  The players find themselves in a jungle setting complete with lots of bad guys and even badder wild animals.  They figure out that they need to pass each level to complete the game if they want to leave Jumanji and return home.

Jumanji is full of laughs and will keep you entertained throughout the movie.  The video game concept is clever and the action almost non-stop.  The comedic performances of the cast were great and it was hilarious seeing Dwayne Johnson act the role of the nerd, Kevin Hart play a big guy stuck in a little guy, and Jack Black play a self-absorbed teenage girl as they navigate their Jumanji adventure.  My family and I really enjoyed the movie and it was so heartwarming to see my seven year old smiling ear to ear for most of it.

Definitely recommend Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle for the entire family.  The movie is rated PG-13 and now showing in theatres everywhere!  

Thank you to our sponsor for the complimentary movie passes!

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