MY LITTLE PONY – FRIENDSHIP IS MAGIC: Twilight and Starlight on DVD

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to DVD from SHOUT! Kids Factory and Hasbro Studios is another installment of our favorite galloping friends with MY LITTLE PONY – FRIENDSHIP IS MAGIC: Twilight and Starlight.

Trying to make friends in Ponyville is harder than Starlight thought and thinking she has met a new friend Twilight knows her as Trixie. Not wanting to tell Starlit who to be friends with, Twilight agrees to let her figure things out for herself.

Their friendship gets exciting when Starlight wants to be part of Trixie’s magic show. The excitement is short lived when Starlight realizes she has to do something with her Twilight which puts a strain on the important dinner with Princess Celestria.

That’s when Twilight realizes that she can not choose Starlit’s friends and clears the way for Trixie and the magic show.

Starlight gets a letter from the pony’s of her village and she freaks out when its an invitation to the Sunset Festival. When a nighttime visit from Princess Luna happens, she isn’t sure everyone at home knows how much she has changed. Taking Trixie along, Starlight hopes it will help make things easier and less stressful.

It doesn’t help and something sinister has happened but Starlight and Trixie realize things aren’t quite right. Once they realize that Chrysalis and Changelings are responsible for all of this, they need to reach the Crystal Empire and with the help of Thorax and Discord they just might be able to do it.

Knowing that Chrysalis’ throne is carved out of ancient materials that soak up the powers of the pony’s, they hope to stop the terrible take over. With no magic, the pony’s have to rely on smarts and creativity to put everything right.

Starlight is thrilled that the gang are getting medals for their bravery in saving Equestria. Twilight, Pinky Pie and the gang are preparing for the celebration with their usual flair. One surprise that Twilight isn’t happy about is that she might have to send Starlight on her way.

Thinking that perhaps sending her to the Changeling hive, Starlight could really help them adjust to their new lives. Not sure that is right she envisions her in the Crystal Palace continuing her magical studies. Someone special finally helps her make a decision based on what’s best for them all.

Trixie gets frustrated when her magic doesn’t exactly work the way she’d like for her magic act. Twilight and the girls are on a Friendship Retreat leaving Trixie and Starlight keeping an eye on the palace. Passing the time they work on spells together as Trixie wants to do everything big which also means being patience, especially when an important map goes missing. Starlight knows she has to find it before Twilight returns.

The problem is that Starlight being upset means she has to put her anger in jars or else it will transfer in Equestria. When one of the jars breaks, some of the residence get a little upset with Trixie.

Starlight could use a little Twilight right about now!

SHOUT! Factory has grown into a tremendous multi-platform media company. Releasing new animated features such as the exquisite Long Way North, and the epic fantasy Beauty And The Beast. Also their own original horror film, Fender Bender gives fans a good scare. For more of what SHOUT Factor has to offer please visit www.shoutfactory.com.

Hasbro Studios is an iconic brand with some of the best in animation and family programming with MY LITTLE PONY, and LITTLEST PET SHOP. Since its formation in 2009, Hasbro Studios has received seven Daytime Emmy’s!

Once again MY LITTLE PONY – FRIENDSHIP IS MAGIC: Twilight and Starlight brings fantastical storytelling and fun animation for kids (of all ages).

The DVD includes the episodes No Second Prances, To Where and Back Again Part 1 & 2, Celestial Advice and All Bottled Up. It also includes the Bonus Feature of a Sing-Along that is always fun and gets the toes tapping! Also included in the sparkly DVD cover is that inside is a BFF Pony Magnet Picture France suitable for your own bestie.

MY LITTLE PONY continues to bring stories, friendship, laughter and, most importantly, love mixed with amazing adventures. There is so much fun in each episode and the animation is bright and just as much fun.

It’s time to bring your family together and be part of the magical adventures from the most loveable creatures of all.

In the end – it is love through friendship!

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE: Dance Berry Dance Shuffles onto DVD

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to DVD from 20^th Century Fox Home Entertainment comes the colorful and musical fun of STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE: Dance Berry Dance.

Strawberry Shortcake’s friend Sweet wants to give her twin sister Sour a special birthday party all to herself and everyone wants to truly help make it special. Apple is upset thinking she might have ruined the day! It all turns out special as Sweet is treated to all her favorite things – except her own sister.

Apple gets upset when she can’t play berry-ball because she isn’t a berry! Shortcake also has to break the news to her that all the girls have worked hard to be where they are but Apple is determined to show she has fancy feet. Creating crazy boots means creating a crazy adventure for everyone.

The groove booties are back as Shortcake and Apple turn them into dance teaching groove booties. That’s when Plum gets the idea to teach the doggies how to dance and decide to put on a show. Buck teaches Tom-tom to dance but when the show is about to start, the pup has other plans.

Putting a dancing video on Apple’s webpage, she asks Strawberry, Plum and Cherry to help write a diddy to go with it. The problem is that the song has gone crazy and Cherry will do anything to never hear it again including making sure no one else does either. Trying to write a song for the Queen of Berryvania, the doggie ditty is stuck in her head.

The Queen brings a surprise to the group that leaves them all laughing and dancing once again!

Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment brings award-winning global product and new entertainment to DVD, Bluray, and Digital HD. There amazing collection offers fans an opportunity to expand their own home libraries with the best films. To discover what other titles they have please visit www.fox.com.

The DVD includes Printable Coloring Pages along with the episodes The Berry Bitsy Dance Disaster, Doggie Dance No-Show, and Dance Puppy Dance. The Digital HD copy means you can watch the berry-girls anywhere - even television, Computer, Tablet and Smartphones.

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE: Dance Berry Dance is just delightful with its catchy music and story of dancing. It carries in its stories all the ideas of friendship, learning together, taking care of pets and understanding that everyone has their own special talents.

I think that’s what I like best about knowing that Strawberry Shortcake and her friends are still around. My daughters watched the show faithfully when they were children and now here I am watching with my granddaughter who is equally delighted by the characters, music and songs. That’s what continues to bring more and more fans on the journey filled with fun. The animation is always so vivid and colorful which lends itself to the enjoyment of STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE.

So get ready to shake your shimmy with the newest installment with STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE: Dance Berry Dance.

In the end - it’s time to shake your berry booties!

Free Screening for Military Personnel for MEGAN LEAVEY

BLEECKER STREET & LD ENTERTAINMENT

COLLABORATE WITH AT&T THANKS®,

REGAL CINEMAS AND MOVIETICKETS.COM ON FREE SCREENINGS FOR MILITARY PERSONNEL OF THE FILM,

MEGAN LEAVEY

Bleecker Street & LD Entertainment have joined forces with AT&T THANKS, Regal Cinemas and MovieTickets.com to bring the true life story, MEGAN LEAVEY, directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite to service members ahead of the June 9, 2017 nationwide release of the film.

AT&T THANKS, Regal Cinemas and MovieTickets.com will generously sponsor over 190 screenings of the film on May 30th as part of National Military Appreciation Month at participating Regal Cinemas. Active and retired service members will be invited to attend a free screening of the film in advance through AT&T THANKS and Regal Cinemas. MovieTickets.com will facilitate ticket fulfillment.

Tickets will be available starting Monday, May 22, 2017 at www.att.com/thanksmilitary. For a list of participating locations, please visit www.regmovies.com/promotions/megan-leavey-screening.

Tyler DiNapoli, President of Marketing, Media and Research for Bleecker Street, said, "We're proud to work with AT&T THANKS, Regal Cinemas and MovieTickets.com to honor our nation's service members with this program. It's a small way to give back to those, who like the real-life Megan Leavey and her service dog Rex, sacrifice so much for our country."

Neil Andrews, Director, Product Marketing Management, of AT&T THANKS said, "We can never say thank you enough to the people who are defending, and have defended our freedom. We hope this small token of appreciation creates a meaningful moment for all servicemen and women and their families as well as honoring the animals that support them."

"I am thrilled to welcome military services personnel to our Regal theatres, and to offer this great opportunity to show our appreciation to the families who have made sacrifices for us all," said Steve Bunnell, Chief Content and Programming Officer at Regal Entertainment Group.

Greg Sica, Vice President of Business Development for MovieTickets.com, said, "We are honored to support this screening of Megan's brave story for America's finest heroes. As a company, MovieTickets.com is extremely proud of our military members and their contributions to protect and maintain our freedom. MEGAN LEAVEY is a film that captures their courage and we are proud to be a part of sharing that narrative along with our collaborators at AT&T and Regal."

The film recounts Megan Leavey's life following the death of her best friend to enlisting in the ranks of the U.S. Marine Corps. When she is assigned to clean up the K9 unit after a disciplinary hearing, she identifies with a particularly aggressive dog, Rex, and is given the chance to train him. Over the course of their service, Megan and Rex completed more than 100 missions until an IED explosion injures them, putting their fate in jeopardy. Starring Kate Mara, Ramón Rodríguez, Tom Felton, Bradley Whitford, Will Patton, Sam Keeley with Common and Edie Falco.

Directed by Cowperthwaite (BLACKFISH) from a screenplay by Pamela Gray and Annie Mumolo & Tim Lovestedt, MEGAN LEAVEY was produced by Mickey Liddell, Pete Shilaimon and Jennifer Monroe.

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: Dead Men Tell No Tales

Jeri Jacquin

Jack is back this week in theatres as directors Joachim Ronning and Espen Sandberg along with Walt Disney Pictures is PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: Dead Men Tell No Tales.

Henry Turner (Brenton Thwaites) is a young man who wants one thing – to see his father Will Turner permanently returned to dry land. What he needs is Poseidon’s Trident and the map that will lead him there to break the curse holding his father deep in the ocean.

Carina Smyth (Kaya Scodelario) is a young woman who holds a map to the where the trident is and only she can read it. Basically it’s because she can read the stars where as most pirates can’t, well, read.

Someone who can help them is Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) but he’s not having the best lucky with a crew lately. As if that’s not enough, Henry tells Jack that a ghost named Captain Salazar (Javier Bardem) pretty much wants his head on a platter.

Unphased by the prospect of losing his head, Jack is more focused on what he’s always focused on – getting his hands on the Pearl! When Captain Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush) comes upon the hair flowing Captain Salazar, a deal is struck to find Jack together.

Jack, Henry and Carina try to stay one step ahead of Barbossa and Barbossa tries to stay two steps ahead of Salazar. As they all get closer to the prize, there are still scores to settle and a few surprises for them all.

This is the life of a pirate!

Depp as Jack Sparrow puts a period at the end of his time as a pirate. His usual throwing caution to the wind and not being upset by much, Depp throws out lines and facial reactions that will make the audience laugh. Jack Sparrow is endearing and even to the very end he seems to be able to come out with what he truly wants.

Thwaites as Henry Turner is a young actor that is able to pull off the role of a kid who just wants his Dad back. Becoming somewhat of an expert on the legends of the sea, Thwaites is charming, caring and daring all rolled into one. Scodelario as Carina is a smart young woman who is misunderstood by, well, pirates. Looking for the trident is her mission to finding her own family.

Rush as Barbossa is his usual peg-legged self who wants to keep the money rolling in and going up against Jack is just topping on the cake. Bardem as Salazar is kind of creepy but then again he is a tad upset at Jack so we have to let him get out his frustration.

Other cast include Kevin McNally as Gibbs, David Wenham as Scarfield, Stephen Graham as Scrum, Adam Brown as Cremble, Orlando Bloom as Will Turner and Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Swann. There is also a cameo appearance that had the audience cheering so look out for that!

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: Dead Men Tell No Tales is a fantastical journey’s we have all enjoyed with Captain Jack Sparrow. Although the film isn’t really a stretch in terms of a storyline (meaning kind of predictable or else I’m just getting really good at this) but the special effects are cool. Of course they would be in a Disney film right?

It has been an adventure from 2003 until now with characters that are memorable and have become iconic. Disney has done a good job in wrapping up this series of films (I hope it’s a wrap!) in such a way that I don’t think anyone will be disappointed.

Everyone jumps on board for another adventure and a few surprises as well. This is fun for the family for the holiday weekend with laughs, adventure, action and characters that once again having us cheer for our favorite pirate.

In the end – it is the final tale of a pirate’s life!

HBO Brings an Amazing Series with THE YOUNG POPE to Bluray

Jeri Jacquin

Coming in June on Bluray and Digital HD from HBO Home Entertainment is a mind blowing limited series from creator/director Paolo Sorrentino and THE YOUNG POPE.

Lenny Belardo (Jude Law) is now the first American Pope choosing the name Pius XIII. Immediately he begins making changes the likes of which the Vatican and its priests have never seen. Upset that he was not chosen as Pope is Archbishop Spencer (James Cromwell), his angers extends to Lenny by cutting him off.

Bringing in the big guns, Lenny chooses Sister Mary (Diane Keaton), the nun who took care of him when his parents left him at the orphanage. Knowing no one would get to him without dealing with Sister Mary, Cardinal Secretary of State Vioello (Silvio Orlando) immediately knows choosing Lenny Belardo as Pope could cost them all.

From his first speech however, everyone within ear shot knows that this is a Pope who isn’t going to be controlled by anyone. Immediately Lenny wants to know who is with him and more importantly, who is against him. That’s when Vioello tries to call in those who would want to control Lenny.

Of course when it all is brought to Lenny’s attention, he calmly tells Vioello that excommunication is a card he has no problem playing. But the games are not over as a woman named Esther (Ludivine Sagnier) is brought in to work closely with the Pope as they all watch to see if a sex scandal can be created to rock the Vatican.

It is clear quickly that Vioello is out of ideas as Lenny also makes it clear that he knows what everyone is up to and every dirty little secret they each have. Playing another dangerous game, Lenny makes demands of the Italian Prime Minister that could bring problems for the politician.

But closer to Lenny is his friend Cardinal Dussollier (Scott Shepherd) and in one fell swoop, the new Pope asks in a demanding way that he point out all those incoming priests who do not follow the rules both in celibacy and homosexuality. In those rules come shocks that will cause a surprising agreement between two enemies.

A trip to Africa the Pope wants to see the works of a Sister Antonia only to discover secrets and a confession that goes haywire. In New York, Archbishop Kurtwell (Guy Boyd) has agreed to provide letters written by Lenny that end up only helping the new Pope’s cause sending the blackmailer to a colder place than he could have imagined.

In San Marco as the Basilica, after spending his time staying out of the limelight, Pope Pius XIII makes a grand gesture showing his face to followers. Believing his sees the face of the parents he has longed to find in the crowd, it leads to a finale that is spectacular!

Law as Pope Pius XIII is jaw dropping in every scene and in every frame. I have to say that I was completely riveted by everything about his performance. Seriously, this series just sends one wtf moment after another and I couldn’t be more pleased about that. It is difficult to find a storyline that is completely original and mind blowing AND get an actor to carry it but with Law as Lenny – epicness complete! This character is intense and doesn’t apologize for any of it, how can you not love that?

Keaton as Sister Mary is just a blast to watch as well. She is a no-nonsense and ‘don’t let this habit fool you’ kind of nun who I would hang out with in a heart beat. Keaton continues to surprise me in her role choices and as Sister Mary I cheered every time someone came up against her.

Orlando as Vioello puts the slap on trying to get Lenny removed and being totally creative about it. Keeping calm to his face, it is when those robes are swaying down the halls of the Vatican that you can see the wheels turning. Always appearing humble, Orlando is always on his toes and looking for any way to crack the Pope.

Cromwell as Archbishop Spencer stands tall and defiant against Lenny being chosen as the Pope. Trying to keep his divine composure, he makes it clear that a mistake has been made and he isn’t about to help make Lenny’s new post easier. I love this role for Cromwell but then again I pretty much love every role he has played. This is a role filled with bitterness and even rage of the highest kind.

Other cast include Cecile de France as Sofia, Toni Bertorelli as Cardinal Caltanissetta, Andre Gregory as Elmore Coen, Rayna Tharani as Maribeth, Tony Plana as Carlos Garcia, Gianluca Guidi as Father Federico Amatucci, Ignazio Oliva as Father Valente, Biagio Forestieri as Peter, Ramon Garcia as Cardinal Aguirre and Monica Cetti as Contessa Meraviglia.

HBO Home Entertainment has an extensive array of critically-acclaimed and groundbreaking programs found on Bluray, DVD and Digital HD. They have provided viewers with some of the most amazing programs with huge fan bases that include the shows True Blood, Sex and the City, The Sopranos, True Detectives, The Wire, Entourage and Game of Thrones. Launched in 1984, HBO is world wide in viewed entertainment in more than 70 territories around the world! For more of what they have to offer please visit www.hbo.com.

THE YOUNG POPE is one of the most original series I have seen in a long time. What is even more amazing is that originality is only the tip of what this series brings. The storyline is fused with twists and turns that only Lenny sees coming which means all eyes are on him.

Another fascination I had with the series is the stunning visuals that are mixed with an ethereal feeling and moments where I could not imagine where it all would lead. Between the visuals and Law, Keaton, Orlando and Cromwell not missing a beat it is clear that THE POPE is heavenly perfection.

The Bluray includes the Special Features of The Making of THE YOUNG POPE, An Invitation to the Set and Inside the Episodes. The three disc set includes six hundred minutes of what I am calling total epicness of a series that brings shock and awe to another level.

In the end – his religion is revolution!

DRONE Brings About a Debating Story

Jeri Jacquin

In theatres this week from director Jason Bourque and Screen Media Films is a story that will bring about debate when it comes to a DRONE.

Neil Wistin (Sean Bean) works secrets as a drone contractor who flies missions that target terrorists. His wife Ellen (Mary McCormack) and teenage son Shane (Maxwell Haynes) believe he is in the IT business. Keeping his work life and home life separate is difficult on everyone.

When Neil’s father dies there is definitely a tension at home as Shane finds it difficult to deal with his grandfather being gone. In their driveway sits a constant reminder in the form of a large sailing boat with a for sale sign plastered across its bow.

While working at home Neil sees a man standing in the driveway. He introduces himself as Imir Shaw (Patrick Sabongui) and shows interest in buying the boat. Happy about it, Neil invites Imir in so they can discuss the price and paperwork.

After some talk Neil invites Imir to dinner with Mary and Shane. Casual conversation about work and culture are pleasant enough until an uncomfortable tension comes between them all.

What happens next will have everyone talking!

Bean as Neil is a man who is pressured by the work he does, the death of his father and a family that doesn’t talk to one another. When the stranger shows up it is inevitable that feelings will rise to the surface and secrets slip out under pressure. Watching Beans’ character juggle everything through a bottle of wine was a train wreck waiting to happen.

McCormack as Ellen is clearly unhappy with family life but tries to reach her husband and son. Hayes as Shane is a young man who wants to send off his grandfather in his own way. Keeping to himself, Shane’s parents are not quite sure how to help him.

Sabongui as Shaw is a man with his own demons. Wanting people to understand everything he’s been through and his sadness becomes difficult when it’s done through fear. Sabongui uses everything from his delivery of words to the expression on his face to bring the audience in.

Other cast include Joel Moore as Gary, Viv Leacock as Agent Barker, Sharon Taylor as Agent Jenkins, Bradley Stryker as Ted Little and Kirby Morrow as Dave Wistin.

Screen Media Films is a global independent motion picture company releasing titles that include TEN THOUSAND SAINTS starring Ethan Hawke, Hailee Steinfeld and Emile Hirsch; COLONIA starring Emma Watson and Daniel Bruhl, SHELTER starring Jennifer Connelly and Anthony Mackie and SHARK LAKE starring Dolph Lundgren. For more on what Screen Media Films has to offer please visit www.screenmediafilms.net.

DRONE brings about the question of who is behind the controls and how it affects us all. This is a story that not only deals with the home life of a man who is not being truthful with his family but another man who feels justified in his actions.

Yes, that seems cryptic to say but this is a film that must be experienced so that the conversation about drones has a starting point. We live in a world of bad guys who imbed themselves around innocent people. We also live in a world were decisions aren’t always so cut and dry and in this film it all comes to a head for both.

The cast is what keeps the story on its feet with Bean, McCormack and Sabongui meshing it all together with emotional shock and awe and knowing our secrets can be used as a weapon.

In the end – choose your target!

LOGAN Slashes onto Bluray with an Additional Noir Version

Jeri Jacquin

On Bluray/DVD, Digital HD and 4K Ultra HD this week from writer/director James Mangold, Marvel Entertainment and 20^th Century Fox Home Entertainment is the final ending to the saga of Wolverine with LOGAN.

The story picks up as Logan/Wolverine (Hugh Jackman) is a washed out limo driver living well beyond 2016. In fact far into the future and his dream is to buy a big boat and sale away from humanity. That was the plan until a man named Pierce (Boyd Holbrook) showed up in his limousine.

Pierce makes it plain that he is looking for someone believing that Logan may have answers. Logan assures the intruder that who ever he’s looking for is of no interest to him. That’s when the name Charles Xavier (Patrick Stewart) is mentioned angering Logan.

Taking off for a hideout, Logan is trying to keep things safe which is about to change when a little girl named Laura (Dafne Keen) comes into his life. Pierce and Dr. Rice (Richard E. Grant) are looking for the girl and stopping at nothing to make sure it happens.

Laura and Charles connect to one another and it becomes clear that there are more young mutants in hiding from Dr. Rice and Pierce. Logan isn’t happy about any of this and knows the only way to stop it is to get Laura to safety.

The danger along the way is hard, fast and out for only one thing – to destroy the young mutants by any means possible. There is a new mutant on the horizon who will challenge them all!

Jackman looks amazing in the Noir version of the film but then again I do have a soft spot for black and white films. Certainly older and a little easier to take a whack at, Jackman is and always will be Wolverine for many fans who are not happy to see their favorite character slash off into the sunset.

Holbrook as Pierce is another transformed human who has a young guy chip on his shoulder. With the air of invincibility he goes after Logan, Charles and Laura trying to make a point (pun intended). Stewart as Charles also takes this one final journey with an old friend. Grant as Dr. Rice is the next generation psychopath who doesn’t mind killing a kid or two.

Keen had the best part in the film I should think. There isn’t much dialogue and she has the angry eyebrow of Jean Grey with a few moves of her own. It took a hot second to realize there are new X-men in town.

Other cast include Stephen Merchant as Caliban, Elizabeth Rodriguez as Gabriela, Eriq La Salle as Will Munson, Elise Neal as Kathryn Munson, Quincy Fouse as Nate Munson, and Reynaldo Gallegos as Rey.

The Bluray/DVD and Digital HD are not the only benefits of owning LOGAN for the personal home theatre library. The LOGAN Noir version is actually pretty cool to watch. It’s a different perspective that is even darker in the telling than the color version. Director Mangold says, “During production of LOGAN I took many black and white photographs and noticed how striking and dramatic our gritty setting and characters appeared in monochrome.”

He continues with, “The western and noir vibes of the film seemed to shine in the format and there was not a trace of modern comic hero movie sheen. Then, white editing, Fox and I started posting some of the black and white stills online and fans responded enthusiastically. Many hoped they would get a chance to see the finished film in carefully timed, high contrast black and white. Well, sometimes hope becomes reality!”

See, sometimes fans can change the course of the way their super heroes are seen.

The LOGAN 4K Ultra HD and Bluray Special Features include LOGAN Noir – black and white version of the film, Audio Commentary by Director James Mangold, Deleted Scenes with Optional Audio Commentary by James Mangold and Making Logan – behind the scenes documentary.

Adding to the collection of the X-men films then LOGAN is a must-have. So prepare for a slashing and bashing that comes with hanging out in mutant territory.

In the end – don’t mess with the limo driver!

Beauty and the Beast Dances and Sings onto Bluray

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray/DVD and Digital HD from director Bill Condon and Disney is the return of a tale as old as time with BEAUTY AND THE BEAST.

Belle (Emma Watson) is a young girl living in a small village where everyone knows everyone. So much so that Belle is known as an unusual girl who would read than find a husband. Living with her father Maurice (Kevin Kline), he is also seen as unusual.

Also in the town is Gaston (Luke Evans), a tad self centered man who sees Belle as his prize and wants to marry her. Along with side kick LeFou (Josh Gad), it is a constant struggle to understand why she is not falling at his feet!

During a trip to the neighboring town, Maurice unexpectedly loses his way and ends up in a tattered castle. He quickly discovers that the inhabitants are a little more magical and terrifying. A Beast (Dan Stevens) roars down and puts Maurice in a tower cell.

When their horse returns to Belle, she immediately knows her father is in trouble and rides off to find him. Finding her father in a cell and meeting the Beast, Belle offers a trade to stay in exchange for releasing her father.

Maurice returns to the town and tries to convince everyone that Belle is being held prisoner by a Beast. In the meantime Belle is getting to know her surroundings and the magic that holds the castle captive. Taking care of her is the candlestick Lumiere (Ewan McGregor), the elegant clock Cogsworth (Ian McKellen), the motherly teapot Mrs. Potts (Emma Thompson) and her teacup son Chip (Nathan Mack), the chiffarobe Madame Garderobe (Audra McDonald) and the ivory keys of Maestro Cadenza (Stanley Tucci).

Getting to know the Beast, Belle begins to see a different side of the creature. This thrills the residence of the castle since there is a curse with a glass encased rose and when the last petal falls they all will become unchangeable forever.

The Beast begins to feel so much more than he could have imagined and when Belle needs to be with her father, his heart gives in. But that isn’t all changing as Gaston convinces the town that the Beast must be destroyed. The two sides collide but one thing is certain, nothing will ever be the same.

It begins with heart!

Watson is charming as Belle and she certainly has made her way out of another iconic character. She twirls and sings her way though and looks to be enjoying her performance.

Stevens voicing the Beast is gruff and unmoving at first but, of course, finds his heart and is changed.

Evans as Gaston is very funny and manages to capture the arrogance and narcissism of the marriage minded self-absorbed hunter. Gad as LeFou is clever and also funny.  Kline as Maurice gets a chance to portray Belle’s father in a less absent minded way but still well done.

McGregor as Lumiere is charming, but then again he is supposed to be. McKellen as Cogsworth has that voice that clearly defines who he is. Thompson as Mrs. Potts is sweet and caring along with the adorable Mack as Chip. McDonald as Madame Garderobe needs lessons in fashion and Tucci as Cadenza plays the ivories beautifully.

Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment began distributing under its own label in 1980 and continues to bring quality programming to kids and kids at heart. Home of the most beloved animated features including SNOW WHITE, PINOCCHIO and SLEEPING BEAUTY to name a few is what keeps families coming back for more. To see what is currently available to add to your own family library please visit. www.movies.disney.com for their At Home titles!

The film is obviously beautiful and live-action fans will have a good time singing along whenever they like to song they already know and one or two new ditties. The costuming is stunning and the cgi is clever. The cast is fun and that is all that will matter to families ready to have a real home movie night.

The Bluray includes so many Bonus Extras including Enchantable Table Read – You’re invited to join the cast for the movie’s elaborately staged table read, complete with singing and dancing to live music, set pieces and more, A Beauty of a Tale – Explore the process of transforming a beloved animated film into a new live-action classic, and The Women Behind Beauty and the Beast – Emma Watson introduces several of the many talented women in all aspects of production who helped bring this enchanted tale to life.

That isn’t all! Also included From Song to Screen: Making the Musical Sequences – Discover what goes into creating some Beauty and the Beast’s best-known moments, Making a Moment with Celine Dion, Beauty and the Beast Music Video & Making the Music Video, Extended Song: Days in the Sun – Learn more about Beast’s childhood in an alternate version of this beautiful song, and finally Deleted Scenes, Song Selection and so much more!

This BEAUTY AND THE BEAST pack includes a Bluray, DVD and Digital HD which means with the code you can take the gang where ever you are going and instantly stream and download all 129 minutes of fun.

In the end – be our guest!

BAMBI Celebrates with an Anniversary Edition on Bluray

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray from directors James Algar, Samuel Armstrong, David Hand, Graham Heid, Bill Roberts, Paul Satterfield and Norman Wright along with Walt Disney Studios is a beloved film that continues to delight us all with BAMBI.

This animated tale tell us the story of a young deer named Bambi who is born a prince in the forest kingdom. He gets to know the woodland creatures like Flower the skunk and his buddy Thumper who enjoy their new friend.

Learning his way around, Bambi learns a little of everything from all the forest has to offer. He also meets Faline, a doe who teaches him to play like a deer should. As the seasons change, Bambi and his mother are struggling to find food but are thrilled when they find a patch of spring.

That happiness isn’t to last as Bambi must now leave with his father to make his way in the forest. Eventually, Bambi returns having grown with a set of antlers to meet up with his first friends Thumper and Flower and even Faline!

Taking his rightful place as the prince of the forest, Bambi and Faline reconnect as he defends her honor. But it is once again when man enters the forest that Bambi defends all those in his domain. In that scuffle another danger to the forest happens as a fire spread wildly.

Together the creatures great and small come together because they a family and they look to Bambi to lead them!

What can be said about BAMBI that hasn’t been said since it came to the silver screen over 75 years ago? It is brilliant in its story telling, stunning in its animation when I first saw it at the age of 10 and today at the age of 56. Generation after generation continue to see this film and know immediately it is something special. Five generations of my family know it to be true.

Voice includes Hardie Albright and Donnie Dunagan as Bambi, Stan Alexander and Sterling Holloway as Flower, Peter Behn and Sam Edwards as Thumper, Cammie Conlon and Ann Gillis as Faline, and Friend Shields as the Great Prince of the Forest.

Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment began distributing under its own label in 1980 and continues to bring quality programming to kids and kids at heart. Home of the most beloved animated features including SNOW WHITE, PINOCCHIO and SLEEPING BEAUTY to name a few is what keeps families coming back for more. To see what is currently available to add to your own family library please visit. www.movies.disney.com for their At Home titles!

This Anniversary Edition of BAMBI that includes a Bluray, DVD and Digital HD which means you can take your favorite forest friends just about anywhere. Also, this is the first time BAMBI is available with a Digital Copy.

The Bonus Features include Studio Stories: Bambi – Walt Disney’s Recordings, Deleted Scenes, The Bambi Effect – See how today’s animated films were inspired by the artistry and technology of Bambi, Inside Walt’s Story Meetings – Extended Edition, Bambi Fawn Facts – Forest Animal Fun Facts and so much more!

BAMBI received three Academy Award nominations for Best Sound, Best Song and Original Music Score – personally I think they should have swept all three and I think anyone who grew up with Bambi would agree.

When Bambi’s father appears, it is majestic and sad at the same time as the young deer learns a little more about the deer heritage. I think that is what is so wonderful about this story; the realities of the human world can be put in the animated world teaching us so much about ourselves. There is love, loyalty, friendship, dedication to family and silliness all grouped into this film.

Disney brings such rich animation and with the Anniversary Edition the film comes out brilliantly in Bluray. The music and score also bring so much to the film with its playfulness, sense of urgency and grandeur. The songs continue to remind me why I love Disney films as do million all over the world.

Thumper, Flower, Faline as well as Bambi are rich and beautiful once again. Now I have the opportunity to share, for the first time, a film that has come to mean so much to me with my own granddaughter – that makes BAMBI even more amazing and special.

In the end – an enchanting story that continues to live in our hearts!

Dear Ridley Scott - ALIEN: Covenant

Jeri Jacquin

Dear Ridley Scott – I wish I didn’t have to say that this is one of the hardest reviews I have had to write in a very long time. Normally I would just go about my life not even bother speaking on this but I am sincerely disappointed.

ALIEN: Covenant has been a film I’ve waited for since going crazy for PROMETHEUS. I am a huge fan of the Alien films and can honestly say that if I am channel surfing and one of the films is on – I stop what I’m doing to watching it for the umpteenth million time.

In 1979 ALIEN rocked the planet and everybody in it with a story that was epic in scope, eye candy for sci-fi lovers and film goers everywhere. I love the character of Ripley and everything she embodied. She was strong, smart, and powerful in her own right, feminine, nurturing, tough as hell and not afraid to show fear. Hey, being chased across the galaxy by a freaky-stomach-splatting-acid-spitting creature that just seems to have it out for you would drive anyone to momentary lapses of fear.

Ripley took us through every gut-wrenching range of emotion and her victory was our victory! Every time the aliens came after her, Ripley put her big girl britches on and gave them a galactic supreme thrashing.

That’s what brought us back into the theatres in 1986 with ALIENS because vengeance is best served in the cold vacuum of space and we wanted Ripley to show the gun-slingers how it’s was really done. With the introduction of Knute, Ripley became even more real to us all because her maternal side kicked in with “get away from her you bitch!” I was in the theatre when people got to their feet cheering on there heroine!

ALIEN 3 in 1992 had us knowing it was inevitable that Ripley would be found floating in space slumbering away only to be awaken by a prison full of guys who thought they were badasses – hardly. When it came down to it a woman solved their problem and then, quite literally, took one for the human team. We still cheered Ripley with her hands gripped around that slithery biter of mayhem showing us all what sacrifice truly looked like.

Then came ALIEN RESCURRECTION in 1997 and I was thrilled to see the reincarnation of Ripley. A scary version of her original, this Ripley had a mean sense of humor and no problem showing off her set of skills. Although I enjoyed the film I knew that it was time to say goodbye to Ripley letting her ride off into the sunset of Earth.

Imagine the surprise of mostly everyone when in 2012 PROMETHEUS came along. I knew Ripley wasn’t going to make an appearance since this was a prequel (and Mr. Scott I can’t even begin to tell you how I feel about prequels). That being said I’m a Michael Fassbender fan, I think the world would be a hideous place without Charlize Theron and Noomi Rapace with always be THE GIRL IN THE DRAGON TATTOO so I mentally and willingly signed on for that ride.

Different and twisted as the film began to divulge the universal secret of where in the hell these creepy double-jawed aliens came from. I have watched PROMETHEUS time and time again because of the story and the cast. I wanted to know where this was going, I wanted Elizabeth Shaw to get the answers and I wanted David to be a cool synthetic. The reviews were mixed and it was either a totally loved the film or totally hated it.

So here we are in 2017 and another ship is floating around in space with ALIEN: Covenant. I was already sitting in the theatre seat with my dander up because Shaw wasn’t going to be part of this adventure. To be honest the only thing that kept me in that uncomfortable seat was knowing Fassbender was going to be playing dual roles and I had to see that for myself.

Now, here I sit, still, weeks later thinking how could this have gone so wrong? Well, for me it began the moment new-guy-behind-the-ships-wheel Captain Oram orders the ship to land. Basically you lost me immediately – totally because no one is that stupid (or so I thought). Screening the film with my two daughters who are also ALIEN aficionados from their teenage years, we spent ten minutes rolling our eyes at one another because believability flew out the window like Ripley’s creature-baby in ALIEN RESURRECTION.

That is only the beginning of my list of bitches and complaints but that’s what happens when I feel cheated. To be honest Mr. Scott the story just rankled me to the point of no return. All I kept thinking was really? REALLY?  Even Michael Fassbender taking on dual roles had my head shaking and not in a good way which kills me, seriously kills me.

If I had one question to ask you I suppose it would be did you believe ALIEN: Covenant was the best you could do for fans? No surprises but instead a revelation that I found to be more placating than cool. Gawd I am so p.o.’d and what’s worse is I know there has to be another film coming down the space-pike and I feel like I’ve already seen it in my theatre’s mind.

Of course I’m not going into detail about the film because even if I’m cranky, I don’t want to ruin the film for those crazy enough to slap down their $15 dollars because perhaps they will find something I’m just not seeing. My only solace is the fact that I have all the other ALIEN films on bluray and can use it as a marathon-mind washing over the weekend.

Something tells me that you aren’t going to be to upset over what this lil’ old broad film critic has to say in the grand scheme of things. If you need someone to look over your next ALIEN script however I’d be glad to use my handy red pencil to ward off any ridiculousness before you yell ‘roll ‘em!’.

If I can offer some salve for the scratches I think Taboo is a frakken ridiculously awesome television show and THE MARTIAN is absolutely brilliant so theirs that. Always look for the bright side of the universe right?

My apologies if I have offended you with my opinion Mr. Scott because I really did want to go gaga for ALIEN: Covenant – truly I did.

Jeri Jacquin

Crabby Movie Maven

LETTERS FROM BAGHDAD is the Untold Story of Gertrude Bell and Iraq

Jeri Jacquin

In selected theatres this June from documentary filmmakers Sabine Krayenbuhl and Zeva Oelbaum along with Between the Rivers Productions are the LETTERS FROM BAGHDAD.

Narrated by Tilda Swinton, this piece tells the story of Gertrude Bell, a woman who lived an extraordinary life. Born in 1868 in England, she was born into a wealthy family. Losing her mother at the age of three, Gertrude remained close to her father Sir Hugh Bell who remarried playwright and children’s author Florence Olliffe.

Gertrude was educated at Queen’s College in London and Oxford University graduating at age 17. Her life after school became a journey through Persia in 1892. Writing about it in the book Persian Pictures, she spent over 10 years travelling around the world discovering her love for archaeology.

Travelling through Damascus, Jerusalem, Beirut, Antioch and Alexandretta, Gertrude would write about her travels in a book Syria: The Desert and the Sown. In 1907 she worked with archaeologist Sir William Ramsay with excavations across Syria.

When World War I came around, Bell volunteered with the Red Cross in France but would later be asked by British Intelligence on how to get soldiers across the deserts. In 1915 she went to Cairo assigned to Army Intelligence. She meets up with T.E. Lawrence where they both share their expertise.

A year later she would receive an official position to organize and process the information of the Arab tribes. Then Gertrude is sent to Basra to advise Percy Cox, a Political Officer and draw maps that would help British soldiers reach safety.

In the Middle East she would see massacres and genocide where, “Turks sold Armenian women openly in the public market”. In 1919, Gertrude spends ten months in Mesopotamia writing on what needed to be done to keep the country’s peace. After which she returns to Baghdad to become Oriental Secretary and a liaison with the Arab Government.

At the Cairo Conference in 1921, Gertrude gave input on Iraq recommending Faisal bin Hussein to lead the country as King of Iraq. The new king kept Gertrude to advise him and help with the government positions selection.

Returning to what she loved, Gertrude began the Baghdad Archaeological Museum wanting to preserve the clearly stunning relics of Mesopotamia and keep them in country. Supervising the excavations, she created large collections.

In 1925, Gertrude returned home to Britain and soon after she died much to the dismay of all those who knew her accomplishments. D.G. Hogarth said, “No woman in recent time has combined her qualities, her taste for arduous and dangerous adventure with her scientific interest and knowledge – all tempered by feminine charm and a most romantic spirit”.

The Iraqi Museum today that she helped create with such attention to detail was ransacked in 2003 during the war.

The documentary LETTERS FROM BAGHDAD is an intensely personal look into the life of this extraordinary woman. During an era where a woman was definitely not to be found in war, let alone positions of importance, Bell proved she could handle anything given her.

Never married, although close, and no children, Bell took life by the wind storm and followed her passion and heart. Doing good by helping seemed to be her initial goal but it blossomed into something even more spectacular.

Sabine Krayenbuhl and Zeva Oelbaum have taken the life of this stellar woman and shared it with us all. I personally had never heard of Gertrude Bell before this documentary but you can be sure that her name and fire will never be forgotten in my mind.

This is a documentary of passion, hope, family, friends, adventure, danger and love for it all. We should all be so blessed to know a fraction of this in our lives – Gertrude Bell made it all every fiber of her life and being.

As Swinton reads Gertrude’s letters, it is in her voice that Bell comes alive! Swinton not only narrates the film but is an executive producer along with Thelma Schoomaker and Reudi Gerber.

LETTERS FROM BAGHDAD is the winner of the Audience Award by the Beirut International Film Festival and the Official Selection of the IDFA, DocNYC, BFI London Film Festival and HAIFA Film Festival.

In the end – her story is no longer untold!

GET OUT Hits Bluray and a Giveaway!

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray/DVD and On Demand from writer/director Jordan Peele and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is the social thriller GET OUT.

Chris (Daniel Kaluuya) and girlfriend Rose (Allison Williams) are headed to visit her parents for the weekend. Unsure of how he will be received, Chris tries to have a positive attitude about the whole endeavor. His friend Rod (LilRel Howery) agrees to take care of the couples’ dog and stay in contact.

Arriving at the home of Missy (Catherine Keener) and Dean (Bradley Whitford) Armitage, their first meeting seems a good one. Chris also meets Rose’s brother Jeremy (Caleb Jones) and housekeeper Georgina (Betty Gabriel). He learns Missy uses hypnosis in her work and after an evening discussion believes she has hypnotized him to stop smoking.

Yet Chris can not shake the feeling that something else isn’t right around him. During a weekend gathering he meets Andrew King (Lakeith Stanfield) and realizes he knows him but not by the name. He calls Rod to share his suspicions as they turn it into joking.

Meeting the Armitage’s friends Chris speaks with Jim Hudson (Stephen Root) who says he believes the young man has an eye for the exceptional. Hudson owns a gallery and is also blind. During the gathering something happens to the man introduced as Andrew whom Chris takes as a reason to leave as soon as possible and Rose agrees.

That’s when all secrets are revealed and Chris fights for his life!

Kaluuya as Chris is an affable character who is keenly aware that there might be a problem meeting Roses’ parents, especially since she didn’t tell them he is African American. Once at the parent’s home, Kaluuya’s performance is that of a young man with great instincts who hopes he is just being over sensitive. Remember, always trust your instincts!

Williams as Rose is a young girl who is in love and wants her parents to meet the boyfriend. Trying to help Chris get past his nerves, Williams gives her character a little naïve attitude until its time not to.

Keener as Missy is just dumpty diapers from the beginning. I don’t think she smiled once actually but instead constantly giving sterns looks. Okay, so she wants what’s best for her daughter and a smoking boyfriend isn’t it. I don’t think I’ve ever seen Keener in a role like this and it is absolutely creepy.

Whitford as Dean is the jolliest member of the Armitage clan. He friends Chris right away and tries to make him comfortable at their bbq. Whitford has that brilliant smile and dancing eyes which work hugely in his favor for this character. Jones as brother Jeremy is the guy most of us would think locked in a basement. He isn’t really all there. Root as Hudson seems like the normal neighbor interested in Chris’s talent and how he can help.

Henderson as Walter freaked me out immediately and then it was crazy from that moment onward. The scene between Walter and Chris cutting wood was crazy good. Gabriel as Georgina just had me staring at the screen with her robotic answers and deep stares. Stanfield as Andrew jumps right into his role and needs to rethink that outfit – seriously.

Howery as Rod is hilarious from start to finish. Worrying for his friend he comes up with scenarios that cracked me up and if you get a moment to see the deleted scenes you’ll understand even more.

Universal Studios Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us all to experience and re-experience in our own home theatres. There are films of every genre available from scary to drama to family films. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.uphe.com.

GET OUT is a thriller that had audiences in the theatres going nuts and now you have a chance to see it for yourself or see it again! The twists and turns are unsettling as this film brought in &100 million at the box office. That should tell you what an original thriller GET OUT truly is.

The Bluray Combo Pack includes a Bluray, DVD and Digital HD with Ultra Violet, Alternate Ending with Commentary by Writer/Director Jordan Peele, Deleted Scenes with Commentary by Writer/Director Jordan Peele, and Unveiling the Horror of Get Out: Go behind the scenes for the making of GET OUT.

Also included is a Q&A Discussions with Writer/Director Jordan Peele and the Cast: Jordan Peele sits down with the cast to answer fan questions on the film hosted by Chance the Rapper, Feature Commentary with Writer/Director Jordan Peele. It is the Alternate Ending that has to be seen to be believed.

Another cool part of GET OUT is that we have a copy to give away! Go to http://moviemaven.homestead.com and find out what you need to do to grab a copy of this blockbuster hit for your own home theatre library!

In the end – just because you are invited doesn’t mean you are welcome!