Hoppers Review

Disclosure: A complimentary code was received for review purposes.

Disney and Pixar’s Hoppers is now available on 4K UHD, Blu-ray and DVD!

Synopsis
In this animated comedy adventure, animal lover Mabel seizes an opportunity to use a new technology to ‘hop’ her consciousness into a lifelike robotic beaver and communicate directly with animals. As she makes amazing discoveries, Mabel befriends a charismatic beaver and must rally the entire animal kingdom to face a major, imminent human threat.

Hoppers refers to how people's brains / minds can "hop" into the bodies of robotic animals.  This scientific process comes in very handy when the main character, Mabel, stumbles upon the procedure and realizes it can help in her efforts to save a glade from being destroyed with the construction of a highway.

There are lots of funny antics and humorous moments, as Mabel, who "hops" into a robotic beaver, tries to rally other animals and find other beavers to help save the glade.  

She learns a lot about animals, nature, and even herself in the process.

My son enjoyed the movie and the surprising twists, and he thought it was funny watching Mabel (as a beaver) acclimate to other animals and how they live.

My favorite part of the movie had to do with the unexpected demise of the Insect Queen - it was actually quite hilarious.  My son loved related scenes - what happened to the successor of the Insect Queen, and how new royalty was crowned.  

I found this movie to be very applicable to what is going on in today's world, especially in Hawaii, where humans are the biggest threat to our natural resources and endangered species.  

Hoppers is a fun, adventurous movie that makes both kids and adults think more deeply about how our actions affect others, as well as how they affect animals and the environment.  

Bonus Features*

• The Critter Diaries: Wander behind the scenes with director Daniel Chong and the Pixar creative team as they explore Yellowstone, study wildlife, and find real-life inspiration for our favorite new animated characters from Hoppers.
• Hopping In: The Making of Hoppers: Hop into the making of the movie as filmmakers, cast, and crew share how their ideas, collaboration, and creative process brought the story, animation, and lovable characters to life in Pixar’s Hoppers.
• "Meet King George" Scene Breakdown: Dive deep with director Daniel Chong and the filmmaking team as they reveal the craft of making King George’s Superlodge. Get insight into the directing process, editing, VFX, animation, and production design.
• Beaverton Revealed: Explore Hoppers to find surprising Pixar film cameos, hidden references, and plenty of fun, behind-the-scenes facts.
• Dam Good Bloopers: Laugh along with your favorite voice actors from Hoppers as they have fun bringing their characters to life in the recording booth.
• Deleted Scenes: Check out these scenes that didn’t make the final cut, as introduced by director Daniel Chong and editor Axel Geddes.
• Cold Open
• The Glade
• The Mission
• Kings Arrive
• George's Bachelor Pad
• Helicopter Ride

*Bonus features may vary by product and retailer

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Predator: Badlands Now Streaming on Disney+

Disclosure: Code received for review purposes.

Predator: Badlands is now streaming on Disney+!

Predator: Badlands is the newest installment in the The Predator and Prey line-up.

Film Synopsis

Set in the future on a deadly remote planet, Predator: Badlands follows Dek, a young Predator outcast from his clan, who finds an unlikely ally in Thia and embarks on a treacherous journey in search of the ultimate adversary.

Predator: Badlands is a stand-alone movie that can be followed and understood even if you haven't seen all of the Predator or Prey films (I personally only have watched the first two films).  

Dek, a Predator, and Thia, a synth, go on an adventure seeking the Kalisk.  They encounter numerous obstacles and we watch as their relationship evolves, while wondering if Thia's intentions are authentic. 

After accomplishing his goal, Dek returns home where he refuses to return to the clan who rejected him, and the film ends in a way that could lead to a possible sequel.

 

Bonus Features*

• Deleted & Pre-Visualization Scenes with Optional Audio Commentary:
• Sand Trap – An early animatic version of Dek’s very different first encounter with Thia.
• Squirt Canyon – The full version of Dek and Thia traversing the water-filled trench while trying to survive Genna…and each other.
• Tessa vs. Abe – Tessa faces off against a superior synth in this deleted scene and storyline.
• Razor Grass – The original previsualization of Dek, Thia, and Bud’s first hunt together…sort of.
• The Outpost – Thia takes Dek to a small Weyland-Yutani field facility where they experience a few things that ended up being used elsewhere in the final film.
• Super Power Loader Extended – Special additional moments during Dek’s climactic final battle with the Super Power Loader and the Kalisk.

 

• Featurettes:
• Embodying the Predator – Meet the talented team of designers, performers, and effects artists responsible for bringing one of cinema’s most terrifying creatures to life on screen in ways we’ve never seen before!
• Authentic Synthetics – Get up close and personal with synths Thia and Tessa as star Elle Fanning walks us through the process of crafting two characters who may look the same but have evolved in surprisingly unique ways.
• Building the Badlands – With razor sharp grass, killer trees, and terrifying animals, never has a planet been more deadly than Genna. Uncover how a team of artisans built this threatening landscape, transforming real locations into the dangerous environments seen on screen.
• Dek of the Yautja – For the first time ever, director Dan Trachtenberg has given audiences an extended peek at Predator culture. Follow the evolution as filmmakers reveal the process behind developing the Yautja’s home world, spacecraft, and family dynamics.  
• Audio Commentary: Watch the film with audio commentary by Director Dan Trachtenberg, Producer Ben Rosenblatt, Director of Photography Jeff Cutter and Stunt Coordinator Jacob Tomuri.

 

*Bonus features may vary by product and retailer

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Review: Elio - Available on Digital Platforms and Now on Blu-ray!

Disclosure: Complimentary code was provided for review purposes.

Synopsis
Elio, a space fanatic with an active imagination, finds himself on a cosmic misadventure where he must form new bonds with eccentric alien lifeforms, navigate a crisis of intergalactic proportions and somehow discover who he is truly meant to be.

Our review:

Elio is an orphaned boy who yearns to be abducted by aliens.  He tries anything and everything - ham radios, contraptions, signs, and more in hopes of it happening.  He parks himself at the beach, along with all of his equipment, for hours on end in hopes the aliens arrive.

One night, he meets Bryce and Caleb who wants to join his Ham Radio Club.  They end up in a scuffle, which results in Elio going to sleepaway camp.

It's at camp that he once again runs into Bryce and Caleb, and while ending up in another scuffle, Elio's dream comes true - he gets abducted by aliens.  

He ends up in the Communiverse, and pretends to be the leader of Earth to face Lord Grigon, who aims to destroy the Communiverse.  By preventing Lord Grigon from destroying the Communiverse, Elio will get a permanent spot in the Communiverse, and not have to return to Earth, where he doesn't feel like anyone cares about him.  

Things don't go as planned, but ultimately Elio discovers that he is worthy and has a purpose just as who he is.  He doesn't have to pretend to be someone or something he's not.  

The movie itself was fun and adventuresome, with fantastical creatures and scenes that help stir imagination and creativity.

Elio is a great story about compassion and embracing your uniqueness.

We've all felt alone at some points, and in many ways, Elio reinforces the fact that we are indeed not alone . . . 

Bonus Features*

• Inside the Communiverse: The World and Characters of Elio – Launch behind the scenes with the cast and crew to get an in-depth look at the design and development of our meteoric main characters, as well as the making of all the celestial environments that make up Elio's universe.
• Out of This World: An Astro Q&A – Calling all space enthusiasts! Voice actors Yonas Kibreab (Elio) and Remy Edgerly (Glordon) meet with a real-life astronaut to discuss space travel, possible alien life on other planets, and why it's important to study space.
• Astronomic Art Class: Ooooo and Glordon – Join Nicolle Castro, the lead story artist, as she shares her role on the film and guides viewers through drawing a couple of the film's interstellar characters, Ooooo and Glordon.
• Extraterrestrial Easter Eggs and Fun Facts – Uncover the references and characters from some of your favorite Pixar films hidden throughout Elio, along with other fun facts.
• Galactic Gag Reel – Discover the fun inside the recording booth with the starry voice actors from Disney and Pixar's Elio as they bring their characters to life with some entertaining laughs.
• Deleted Scenes – Check out the scenes that didn't make the final cut:
• Bike Chase
• Garden Party  
• Carver Legend
• Questa's Second Test
• Home Visit

*Bonus features may vary by product and retailer

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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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Review: Doctor Strange in the Mutiverse of Madness

Disclosure: A digital code was provided for review purposes.

I'm a huge fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and Doctor Strange is one of my favorite characters (I am a fan of Benedict Cumberbatch).

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness was a very enjoyable movie, diving into the background of Doctor Strange as well as The Scarlet Witch, through a very fun and extremely creative storyline.

My youngest son summarized the movie:

In Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Stephen Strange find himself in a city being attacked by a monster that is chasing a girl named America, who can travel through the Multiverse.  Stephen sought the help of Wanda Maximoff to help save America, but instead discovered that Wanda herself was the one wanting to capture America to obtain her powers, in order to go to a universe where she is back with her kids.  

My son loved when Doctor Strange and America found themselves "falling" through various universes (like paint).  One of my son's favorite parts dealt with an older man who keeps hitting himself (hint: stay tuned for the end credits).

Another exciting part of the movie was when the Illuminati were introduced, which included several familiar characters (I won't spoil it for you!).  

In a film full of various "trippy" universes, and "other other Doctor Stranges," as well good and evil books, the ability to dreamwalk and cause incursions (when two universes collide, causing one or both to be destructed), viewers are taken on quite a wild ride.  

I admit - at times it was hard for me to follow, but the movie was so enjoyable, that I'm sure I'll watch it again and again to pick up on details I missed the first time (as I do with most MCU movies).  

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is full of action, humor, and a very interesting storyline that at times got me tearing up.  It's a great addition to your MCU collection!

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is available on Digital and Blu-ray.

Film Synopsis
Journey into the unknown in Marvel Studios’ Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. When the MCU unlocks the Multiverse, Doctor Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) must enlist help from old and new allies as he traverses mind-bending and dangerous alternate realities in order to confront a surprising adversary.

Bonus Features*
Featurettes

• Method to the Madness - Join various crew members and Marvel employees in interviews as they discuss their love of Sam Raimi and all the details of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness that make it quintessentially Raimi.
• Introducing America Chavez - In this short and fun profile piece, we’ll learn about America’s humble beginnings in the comics. We’ll meet Xochitl Gomez and discuss the complications her character's unique power presents for the future of the MCU.
• Constructing the Multiverse - Writing a feature film for Marvel is no easy task. In this playful yet informative featurette, we’ll dive into the challenges that writer Michael Waldron faced in creating the twisting and turning story of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

Bloopers

• Gag Reel - Take a look at some of the fun outtakes on set with the cast and crew of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.

Deleted Scenes

• A Great Team - A journalist questions Doctor Strange's integrity.
• Pizza Poppa - Bruce is relieved when Doctor Strange's spell ends.
• It's Not Permanent - Bruce tries to accuse Doctor Strange of being an imposter.

Audio Commentary

• View the film with audio commentary by Sam Raimi, Richie Palmer, and Michael Waldron.

*bonus features vary by product and retailer

Cast
Benedict Cumberbatch as Doctor Stephen Strange
Elizabeth Olsen as Wanda Maximoff / The Scarlet Witch
Chiwetel Ejiofor as Baron Mordo
Benedict Wong as Wong
Xochitl Gomez as America Chavez
Rachel McAdams as Dr. Christine Palmer

Directed by
Sam Raimi     
 
Produced by
Kevin Feige p.g.a

Co-Producers
Mitchell Bell
Richie Palmer

Executive Producers
Victoria Alonso
Eric Hauserman Carroll
Jamie Christopher
Louis D’Esposito
Scott Derrickson
                                             
Written by
Michael Waldron
                    
Music by
Danny Elfman

Product Specifications
Street Date
Digital: June 22
Physical: July 26
 
Product SKUs
Digital: 4K UHD, HD, SD
Physical: 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (4K UHD + Blu-ray + Digital Code), Blu-ray Combo Pack (Blu-ray + Digital Code) & DVD
 
Feature Run Time
Approx. 126 minutes
 
Rating
U.S. Rated PG-13
      
Aspect Ratio
Digital: 2:39
Physical: 2:39:1
 
U.S. Audio
4K Ultra HD: English 7.1.4 Dolby Atmos, English AD 2.0 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 7.1 Dolby Digital Plus
Blu-ray: English 7.1 DTS-HDMA, English AD 2.0 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital
DVD: English 5.1 Dolby, English AD 2.0 Dolby, French 5.1 Dolby, Spanish 5.1 Dolby
Digital: English Dolby Atmos (UHD only, some platforms), English 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, Spanish 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, French 5.1 & 2.0 Dolby Digital, English Descriptive Audio 2.0 Dolby Digital (some platforms)

U.S. Subtitles
4K Ultra HD: English SDH, Spanish, French
Blu-ray: English SDH, Spanish, French
DVD: English SDH, Spanish, French
Digital: English SDH, French, Spanish (some platforms)

Press Materials

• EPK.TV / Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Blu-ray, DVD, 4K Ultra HD and Digital
• Getty Images / Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness
• Original Motion Picture Soundtrack / Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

 

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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: The Bad Guys

Disclosure: A complimentary code was provided to preview the film. 

The Bad Guys is now in theaters!

Synposis: 

Nobody has ever failed so hard at trying to be good as The Bad Guys.

In the new action comedy from DreamWorks Animation, based on the New York Times best-selling book series, a crackerjack criminal crew of animal outlaws are about to attempt their most challenging con yet—becoming model citizens.

Never have there been five friends as infamous as The Bad Guys—dashing pickpocket Mr. Wolf (Academy Award® winner Sam Rockwell, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri), seen-it-all safecracker Mr. Snake (Marc Maron, GLOW), chill master-of-disguise Mr. Shark (Craig Robinson, Hot Tub Time Machine franchise), short-fused “muscle” Mr. Piranha (Anthony Ramos, In the Heights) and sharp-tongued expert hacker Ms. Tarantula (Awkwafina, Crazy Rich Asians), aka “Webs.”

But when, after years of countless heists and being the world’s most-wanted villains, the gang is finally caught, Mr. Wolf brokers a deal (that he has no intention of keeping) to save them all from prison: The Bad Guys will go good.

Under the tutelage of their mentor Professor Marmalade (Richard Ayoade, Paddington 2), an arrogant (but adorable!) guinea pig, The Bad Guys set out to fool the world that they’ve been transformed. Along the way, though, Mr. Wolf begins to suspect that doing good for real may give him what he’s always secretly longed for: acceptance. So when a new villain threatens the city, can Mr. Wolf persuade the rest of the gang to become … The Good Guys?

My son was very eager to watch The Bad Guys, as we've had this book in our home for a while now.  I was unfamiliar with the story, but not long after the movie started, I enjoyed the cleverness and vibe of the movie, which is definitely appealing to both kids and adults.  

In fact, as the movie went on, it reminded me of some blockbuster hits, such as Ocean's Eleven, with smooth-talking characters that you couldn't help but root for.

The Bad Guys, a "criminal crew of animals" as my son puts it, are Mr. Wolf, Mr. Tarantula, Mr. Snake, Mr. Shark, and Mr. Piranha.  Pivotal moments early in the movie has Mr. Wolf convincing his cohort to prove they can be good, so they can do bad and no one will suspect them.

Unfortunately, they are blamed for a crime that they did not commit, and in finding out the real perpetrators, they discovered other animals' true personas.

Ultimately, after some twists (both surprising and predictable), The Bad Guys do indeed turn into The Good Guys.

The Bad Guys was a great and funny family film that had my youngest laughing at some very silly and memorable moments in the movie.  The movie kept his attention while teaching him a great lesson!  

For theaters and showtimes, click here. 

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Review: West Side Story

Disclosure: A complimentary code was provided to watch the movie.

Film Synopsis
Directed by Academy Award® Steven Spielberg, from a screenplay by Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award® winner Tony Kushner, “West Side Story” tells the classic tale of fierce rivalries and young love in 1957 New York City. This reimagining of the beloved musical stars Ansel Elgort (Tony); Ariana DeBose (Anita); David Alvarez (Bernardo); Mike Faist(Riff); Brian d’Arcy James (Officer Krupke); Corey Stoll (Lieutenant Schrank); Josh Andrés Rivera (Chino); with Rita Moreno (as Valentina, who owns the corner store in which Tony works); and introducing Rachel Zegler (Maria.) Moreno – one of only three artists to be honored with Academy®, Emmy®, GRAMMY®, Tony® and Peabody Awards – also serves as one of the film’s executive producers.

West Side Story is one of the most beloved musicals of all time. I've seen it several times, so of course, I was hesitant about the remake by Steven Spielberg, as I am with most remakes of classic films.

But I loved it. The essence of the original remained throughout, while Spielberg cast his own magic.

With memorable songs and performances of "America," "I Feel Pretty," and "Somewhere," the timeless story tells the tale of love and loss, intertwined with stories of race and socio economics.

Although set in the late 50s, the challenges and triumphs depicted in the film are relatable to this very day, and the intense love story is one that still brings tears to my eyes.

The sets, characters, costumes, songs, and dances, along with the stellar performances of the cast (loved that Rita Moreno, who was in the original as Anita, is in this movie), all came together to create a wonderful reimagining of this treasured film.

West Side Story is available on Digital and Blu-ray.

Bonus Features*

The Stories of West Side Story

• Opening – Director Steven Spielberg begins the journey of one of his career goals – to direct his own cinematic version of the iconic musical. Doing so means he will embrace enormous challenges.

• Prologue – From the iconic finger snaps to the complex choreography, we are introduced to the film’s opening scene and explore its setting. We begin to see Spielberg's vision take shape.

• Sharks & Jets – Meet the actors who play the Sharks and the Jets. Go behind the scenes of "La Borinqueña," the song of the Puerto Rican Revolution, which was added into this vision of the story. Discover the deeper meaning of “Jet Song.”

• Dance At The Gym – Mambo your way through “The Dance At The Gym” and Justin Peck’s choreography, as it leads to the pivotal moment when Tony and Maria meet for the first time.

• The Romance – Explore the budding romance of Tony and Maria with the songs “Maria” and “Tonight” as Rachel Zegler (Maria) and Ansel Elgort (Tony) talk about the casting process, and what led them to this career-defining film.

• America – During a sweltering New York heat wave, the cast and crew take the production to the streets for one of the biggest dance numbers in the film, "America," featuring Ariana DeBose, who plays Anita.

• Gee, Officer Krupke – Spielberg and the Jets make "Gee, Officer Krupke" their own through a new setting, vocal direction and choreography, while they explore the meaning of Stephen Sondheim’s lyrics. Get to know Iris Menas (Anybodys) and the significance of their role.

• Cool – During the first week of production, Spielberg and the cast nervously jump into filming on the elaborate and challenging set of the musical number "Cool."

• From Quintet to The Rumble – Spielberg and his team navigate the intertwining scenes of “The Quintet” and "The Rumble." Once there, they take a scene that is traditionally stylishly choreographed, and instead bring a more visceralauthenticity to the fight between the two gangs.

• I Feel Pretty – Screenwriter Tony Kushner sheds new light on “I Feel Pretty.” We see how, in Spielberg’s film, the beloved song by lyricist Stephen Sondheim is given new vision, as it is set and performed within Gimbel’s department store.

• Somewhere – Hollywood Legend Rita Moreno, who won acclaim for playing Anita in the 1961 film, returns as Valentina, a shopkeeper’s widow, as well as an executive producer. She brings extraordinary experience and emotion to the film and sings the song “Somewhere.”

• Finale – In a moving testament to the talented cast and crew of WEST SIDE STORY, Spielberg reluctantly wraps “one of the best filmmaking experiences” of his career.

• Tribute – The late Stephen Sondheim reflects on his career and experience making WEST SIDE STORY in this dedication to the esteemed lyricist.

 

 

The Songs

Go directly to your favorite musical numbers from WEST SIDE STORY.

• Prologue

• La Borinqueña

• Jet Song

• Something's Coming

• The Dance At The Gym

• Maria

• Balcony Scene (Tonight)

• America

• Gee, Officer Krupke

• One Hand, One Heart

• Cool

• Tonight (Quintet)

• The Rumble

• I Feel Pretty

• Somewhere

• A Boy Like That/I Have A Love

 

*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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A Boy Called Christmas

Premiering today on Netflix is A Boy Called Christmas!  

Synopsis:

An ordinary young boy called Nikolas sets out on an extraordinary adventure into the snowy north in search of his father who is on a quest to discover the fabled village of the elves, Elfhelm. Taking with him a headstrong reindeer called Blitzen and a loyal pet mouse, Nikolas soon meets his destiny in this magical, comic and endearing story that proves nothing is impossible.

I had a chance to watch a virtual screening (with some sweet treats just for the occasion), and what a delight it was! This wonderful family film combines whimsy, adventure, and the magic of Christmas to tell a touching story about Nikolas and his determination to find Elfhelm.  

Despite harrowing odds, Nikolas, with the help of a few fantastical friends, embark on a journey to bring the joy of Christmas back to those who need it most.

The special effects, clever integration of Christmas names and symbols, and imaginative characters add to the fun of this wholesome family movie.  

The holiday scenes and the story itself got me into the Christmas spirit, and the lesson behind the reason of giving is one that we all should be embracing.

Get the hot chocolate and popcorn and gather the family to watch this wonderful family movie on Netflix!

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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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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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