Toothless and Hiccup Land Home on 4K Ultra HD

 

Jeri Jacquin

This week on 4K Ultra HD, Bluray and Digital in a Collector’s Edition from writer/director Dean DeBlois, DreamWorks and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is the returning tale of HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON.

On the island of Berg, Hiccup (Mason Thames) is a young man that doesn’t quite fit in, especially when it comes to fighting the one thing that plagues his village – dragons! It is even more difficult to fit in when your father is Stoick the Vast (Gerard Butler) the chieftain of Berk. Hiccup mainly spends his time in the workshop of Gobber (Nick Frost) the blacksmith and being pushed out of the way when dragons attack. Except during the most recent attack, Hiccup hears something and knows if he can bring down a Night Fury, his life will get better yet, when he does, no one believes him.

Stoick is dead set on finding the dragons lair and getting rid of their dragon problem once and for all. Before leaving on that journey, Gobber talks him into letting Hiccup go into dragon training as a way of giving him something useful to do and staying under the watchful eye of Gobber. When he arrives for training, Hiccup is met with the groans of Astrid (Nico Parker), Fishlegs (Julian Dennison), Snotlout (Gabriel Howell), Ruffnut (Bronwyn James) and Tuffnut (Harry Trevaldwyn) who see him as a hinderance and not a help to the village.

In between training, Hiccup decides to go look for signs that he caught a dragon. There, in a small opening in the woods, he sees the Night Fury struggling and shortly realizes his tail is damaged. When a friendship is struck and he discovers a way to help the Night Fury, Hiccup realizes that he can’t and won’t hurt other dragons. As the two become inseparable and he learns from the dragon named Toothless – Hiccup also becomes a surprise during training much to the suspicion of Astrid.

She learns Hiccups secret but also realizes that the villagers truly don’t understand dragons. When Stoick returns, everything comes out and now Hiccup and Toothless are separated while finding the dragon’s lair. Hiccup enlists the help of Astrid and the others to do what needs to be done – saving his father and the other Vikings!

Thames as Hiccup is a young man trying to find his place in the Viking village of Berk. Keeping himself busy with making inventions that no one really pays attention to, he thinks it’s time to get a dragon. The one thing Hiccup doesn’t count on is realizing that getting to know dragons is the answer to the villages’ problem. It’s unfortunate that Stoick isn’t interested in hearing about it. Thames is charming and captures a bit of the animated Hiccup but it works smoothly and that’s what is important.

Butler as Stoick is the only person that returns from animation to live-action. The fact is that nobody could voice the chieftain better than Butler and he is fun to watch in full Viking regalia. That makes playing the role much easier since he pretty much already knows the lines. The challenge I think would be going from being only a voice to a full-fledged Stoick on screen. He is funny, challenging, and the scene where he gives Hiccup his mother’s helmet is awkward and lovely at the same time.

Frost as Gobber is the peg-legged, one arm blacksmith who understands Hiccup’s predicament referring to him as “all this” of problems with a mixture of loyalty to Stoick as well as a trusted friend. Frost gives his character sarcasm and wit that I secretly enjoy and delivers. Parker as Astrid giving the strong minded and strong-willed Viking who believes she must beat everyone and everything in order to be seen as a leader. Hiccup is an obstacle to all that as she feels that being the son of the chieftain is a point she cannot get over. Parker delivers on the right bad attitude of her character until she begins to see the other side of the story. Well done.

Dennison, James, Trevaldwyn, and Codd round out the added cast as the other trainees of dragon camp. They might see Hiccup as a problem-child in the beginning but, like Astrid, learn that there is more to their small world than they could ever imagine. Each of these actors are a sweet addition to the live action story.

Other cast include Peter Serafinowicz as Spitelout, Naomi Wirthner as Gothi, Ruth Codd as Phlegma, Andrea Ware as Burnheart, Anna Brophy as Retcha, Marcus Onilude as Snorti, Peter Selwood as Drul, Daniel Williams as Fungi, Kate Kennedy as Flatula and Murray McArthur as Hoark.

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. 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.

DreamWorks brings amazing, film and animated entertainment, television specials and series for the young and young at heart audiences around the world. For more of what they have to offer please visit http://www.dreamworksanimation.com.

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

Bonus Features include Deleted Scenes, Gag Reel, Love and Legacy: Making HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON, Building Berk, Dreaming Up the Dragons, Fit for a King, Forbidden Friendship, Exploring the Isle of Berk at Epic Universe and Feature Commentary with Writer/Director Dean DeBlois and more!

HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON is, of course, the live action version of the 2010 version of the same name. The cast brings together that version of the story nicely with a few changes here and there but most following the formula that made the animated film such a success. That is important for the success of the film because, and let’s be honest here, when a story changes drastically, fans get a little edgy.

Toothless remains animated and everything my family loves about the Night Fury. Needless to say, there are plenty of Toothless items around our house because that is the amazing impression this character has made. He is a combination of a strong willed, free spirited, protector of a black cat and its absolutely wonderful. That’s how I’ve always seen Toothless and this film doesn’t change that about him one bit.

The film is fun, lots of laughs, and exactly the summer feature that families can have an amazing time at the theatre with. There is something for everyone bringing some of us back to 2010 and introducing a new generation to the same fun in a different way with the story of HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON.

In the end – the legend is real!

The One and Only DOG MAN Fights Crime on Bluray

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray and Digital from writer/director Peter Hastings, DreamWorks Animation and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is the one and only DOG MAN.

Police Officer Knight and sidekick dog Greg are severely injured and in order to save them both, the doctors create Dog Man! Quick healing puts Dog Man back on the streets to try and capture Petey the Cat (Pete Davidson). Dog Man’s boss Chief (Lil Rel Howery) knows that the town’s mayor (Cheri Oteri) is becoming frustrated and makes it clear to get that cat!

Petey (Pete Davidson) is wreaking havoc and with each capture, he realizes that its time to be more creative. Deciding to double himself, what actually happens is the creation of Little Petey (Lucas Hopkins), an adorable child version of big Petey. Not happy with the outcome, in one moment he becomes happy when little Petey goes missing.

Not really missing really, more like left and Dog Man finds him! Taking him home, the two become attached to one another. Keeping up on the news of what Petey is doing is Sarah Hatoff (Isla Fisher), the local news reporter and her trusty cameraman Seamus (Billy Boyd). To add more mischief and mayhem Petey has created a robot and manages to bring Flippy the Fish (Ricky Gervais) into the chaos.

So now Dog Man, must find a way to stop the madness created by Petey while also keeping Chief and the mayor happy and not crushing Little Petey’s spirit. That’s a tall order for a small Dog Man but nothing that he can’t handle without a little surprising help.

Writer/Director Hastings has decided to be the barking voice of Dog Man and there certainly isn’t anything wrong with that. He is able to provide the right emotions for this animated creation and it did look like fun. Davidson as Petey the Cat is a bit psychotic, a bit maniacal and a bit misunderstood. It takes a duplicate to test what he believes about himself but doesn’t stop the creation of more problems.

Howery as Chief tries to deal with Dog Man and the mayor giving him more headaches than he knows what to do with. There is a little jealousy about all the attention Dog Man is getting so there’s that issue to deal with. Fisher as Hatoff had me cracking up with her reporter skills and with the help of Boyd as Seamus, these two characters are perfect together and these two actors gave perfect voices to them.

Gervais as Flippy the Fish has us rolling with laughter and the lines delivered had Gervais all over them. The craziness is there and we were loving every moment. Hopkins as Little Petey is charming, adorable and almost made me want an orange cat – almost. His voice gives us reason to believe that a character can be a little bad even if he’s all good.

Other cast include Stephen Root as Grandpa, Poppy Liu as Butler, Luenell as Milly, Melissa Villasenor as the Realtor, Brian Hopkins as Big Jim, Yung Gravy as Mr. Whiskers, and Karen Foster as the Robot.

DreamWorks Animation brings amazing, animated entertainment to films, television specials and series for the young and young at heart audiences around the world. For more of what they have to offer please visit http://www.dreamworksanimation.com.

Universal Pictures has amazing films in their library. 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.

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

Exclusive Bonus Features include Deleted and Extended Scenes with Introductions by Screenwriter/Director Peter Hastings, Meet the Pack, The Making of DOG MAN: A Sarah Hatoff Exclusive, Howl to Draw Flip-o-Rama Style, Howl to Make Doughnuts for Dogs and Feature Commentary with Screenwriter/Director Peter Hastings.

Dav Pilkey is the creator of Dog Man but this isn’t his first works to go from book to screen. He is also responsible for Captain Underpants books that also made it to the screen successfully. Pilkey has written 12 Dog Man books, several in the Dragon series, Dumb Bunnies books, Cat Kid Comic Club, Ricky Ricotta’s Mighty Robot, Big Dog & Little Dog and other books.

First of all, DOG MAN is one of my granddaughters’ all-time favorite books to read and she cannot get enough of them. When I told her that Dog Man had been made into a film, she was thrilled beyond belief and made sure that I took her to see it. Her favorite character is Petey and she was so happy from beginning to end. Now that Dog Man is on Bluray/Digital, she can watch over and over again!

The film is funny with the zany story and it even had references that are meant to make the adults laugh. DOG MAN is so colorful and the animation is well done to the point where I could hold up one of the books next to the film poster and there is hardly any difference. That’s what made it so excitable to watch, keeping the characters as they have come to be loved by kids and probably a few adults.

DOG MAN is the perfect family film to bring the family together so grab popcorn and laugh. It is so well animated, colorful, fun and full of laughter from start to finish.

In the end – part dog, part man and all hero!

Our Beloved Gang is Back with TROLLS BAND TOGETHER

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres bringing joy and fun from directors Walt Dohrn, Tim Heitz, DreamWorks and Universal Pictures is the return of the gang that knows a lot about loyalty with TROLLS BAND TOGETHER.

Poppy (Anna Kendrick) and Branch (Justin Timberlake) are helping friends King Gristle (Christopher Mintz-Plasse) and Bridget (Zooey Deschanel) get their walk down the aisle. During the ceremony, they are interrupted by John Dory (Eric Andre) who tells Branch that his brother Floyd (Troye Sivan) has been kidnapped.

Poppy is a little confused because she didn’t even know Branch had brothers. As the story unfolds, she realizes that her boyfriend Branch was once a member of the boy band BroZone along with Clay (Kid Cudi) and Spruce/Bruce (Daveed Diggs). As the wedding wraps up and the couple head out on their honeymoon, John Dory tells Branch that Floyd has been kidnapped by rock stars Velvet (Amy Schumer) and Veneer (Andrew Rannells)

Well, there is only one thing to do in Poppy’s mind, help rescue Floyd because family is family and she always wanted a sister. So, they head out on a trusty steed driven by as Tiny Diamond (Kenan Thompson) who is flexing his tiny independence. The mission begins with finding the other brothers who have all gone their separate ways since their BroZone days.

Poppy also meets Veva (Camilia Cabello) and a group of Trolls that are still terrified of the Bergens as more secrets are revealed. The group needs to come together once again to get the perfect pitch that will shatter the diamond that Velvet and Veneer has encased Floyd in. The journey is more than they could have ever expected!

Kendrick as Poppy is once again full of fun, optimism and love for Branch. Trying to help Bridget have her special day, she learns more about Branch and is excited in her usual Poppy way. She wants to help get the boys together once again, even if only to remember what being a brother is all about. Nothing wrong with an adventure, hair braiding, singing and scrapbooking to make life more colorful. Kendrick’s singing is always on point and so good.

Timberlake as Branch has mellowed a bit and it is clearly due to Poppy. The return of John Dory feeds back into his grump side because of unresolved abandonment issues which happens when brothers go their separate ways. Yet, on the road, he does have moments where he mellows because Floyd is the brother he was closest to in their BroZone days. Timberlake is and will always be Branch, and to be honest we have actually used Branch’s’ lines in this family’s daily life. His vocals are, as expected, awesome, fun and had everyone singing along whether they realized it or not.

Andre as John Dory is a bossy brother who doesn’t remember BroZone the way the other brothers do but he does know Floyd has to be rescued! Cabello as Veva is just as colorful, surprisingly happy and a braiding maniac like Poppy. She is an enjoyable character who has to rethink the life she has been living. Cudi as Clay realizes that not a lot has changed with his older brother but still is going to do the right thing.

Mintz-Plasse and Deschanel as King Gristle and new bridge Bridget are just so funny, lovely and deserving of all things love. They also are very loyal to their troll friends and will do anything possible to make sure they are safe and just as happy as they are. Diggs as Spruce/Bruce is living his love island life with a wife and a load of kids but when it comes to his brother, he is all in.

Schumer as Velvet and Rannells as Veneer get the opportunity to play musical villains who are spoiled, selfish and want an easy way to riches, even if it means harming Floyd. These two actors give their vocals sparks of total evilness and just as Rannells’ Veneer makes you think perhaps good is in there, he proves we are Poppy-like.

Thompson as Tiny Diamond is hilarious and basically steals every scene he is in! He may be tiny but he shines brighter than the bottle Floyd is in! Sivan as Floyd is the brother that is being held by Velvet and Veneer. He wants to do what is right and is willing to sacrifice himself to keep everyone safe. Floyd is such a sweet character that we see through a diamond bottle.

Other cast include Zosia Marnet as Crimp, RuPaul as Miss Maxine, Icona Pop as Satin/Chanille, Ron Funches as Cooper, Anderson Paak as Prince D, Kunal Nayyar as Guy Diamond, David Fynn as Biggie, Kevin Richardson as Mr. Dinkles, Patti Harrison as Brandy, Walt Dohrn as King Peppy/CloudGuy and GloZell as Grandma Rosiepuff.

DreamWorks Animation brings amazing, animated entertainment to films, television specials and series for the young and young at heart audiences around the world. For more of what they have to offer please visit http://www.dreamworksanimation.com.

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. 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.

On a personal note, my granddaughter has been a Trolls watcher since she was two years old. Singing, dancing, laughing and being excited with her Poppy and Branch dolls is a wonderful memory for this grandma. I wasn’t sure she would want to see TROLLS BAND TOGETHER because she is now 8-years-old and into other things. I think she initially went just because we like spending time together but from the moment the film started to the very end, we laughed, sang and had such a good time together that she officially said, “Naynay, I LOVE this movie!” and I hope other families get to experience that joy this film can bring.

Just when you think there couldn’t be any storyline left for our favorite trolls, TROLLS BAND TOGETHER comes along and kicks that idea out the door. This film is absolutely stunning in color, keeps our characters just the way we love them, filled with music that everyone can relate to and an adventure that brings, literally, a boy band back together – even if for a moment.

This is exactly the film that needs to be on the screen bringing families together for popcorn, fun, singing, laughing and just a plain ole good time to be had for all. Poppy and Branch hold the characters together like they are the new Mom and Dad for both the trolls and the Bergens. The holiday season means more time for family and TROLLS BAND TOGETHER is a great reason for us all to band together!

In the end – there are some new trolls on the block!

 

 

 

 

RUBY GILLMAN, TEENAGE KRAKEN

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from directors Kirk DeMicco, Faryn Pearl, DreamWorks Animation and Universal Pictures comes the story about the teen struggles of RUBY GILLMAN, TEENAGE KRAKEN.

Ruby Gillman (Lana Condor) is an unusual 16-year-old teen finding her place in the city of Oceanside. Along with mother Agatha (Toni Collette), dad Arthur (Colman Domingo) and little brother Sam (Blue Chapman), the family is hiding an interesting secret – they are kraken’s living among humans.

Almost no one takes notice, accept a suspicious Gordon Lighthouse (Will Forte) and his trusty crab. The entire high school is excited about the upcoming high school prom except Ruby because Mom has said no. Her reason? Because she doesn’t want Ruby near the water which means she won’t be able to ask crush Connor (Jaboukie Young-White).

That when best friends Margot (Liza Koshy), Bliss (Ramona Young) and Trevin (Eduardo Franco) suggest that maybe she should, well, just go. Asking Connor is the next step but chaos happens and Ruby discovers that she is a very large kraken.

Never-before-met Uncle Brill (Sam Richardson) shows up telling Agatha that their mom wants to meet Ruby. When all the family secrets come out, Ruby decides to visit Grandmamah (Jane Fonda) and discovers she is the Warrior Queen of the Seven Seas and also learns about life under the sea.

She also meets Chelsea Van Der Zee (Annie Murphy), a mermaid who also has a story to tell and it involves a rivalry between the kraken and mermaids. Becoming sea-besties, Chelsea suggests that rift could be healed if they could only get ahold of a special trident.

When chaos breaks out, a kraken family bands together to save those they love in a place they call home!

Condor as Gillman gives animated voice to a very sweet, charming, quirky character. Ruby tries very hard to fit in and all seems to be going well, until it doesn’t. Learning that secrets can be painful, Ruby must come to terms with the land and sea and where she fits in between the two. My granddaughter loves Ruby!

Collette as Agatha is a very ambitious real estate mom who keeps the family together. Keeping Ruby safe has been her goal but when secrets start to come out, she has no choice but to come clean. Collette gives the voice of Agatha the same voice I heard in my head when my kids were teens. Trying to stay one step ahead is exhausting but Agatha pulls it off nicely.

Fonda as Grandmamah (accent on the ‘mah’ if you please) is hilarious as the Queen Kraken. She is thrilled to see Ruby and does what she can to show her that side of the family. Ruby believed she was the only one with mom issues, its good to see that not only does mom-issues run in the family but so does solidarity.

Murphy as the wicked Chelsea came along to show Ruby what she was missing under the sea and all the fun there was to be had. Of course, her intentions are anything but fun! Richardson as Uncle Brill is that Uncle we all have and love, no matter how much mess he makes because the laughter he causes is everything.

Domingo as dad Arthur and Chapman as little brother Sam are supportive of their family and even Sam can’t help but love the family he is in. Forte as Lighthouse is on a mission to show the town that the kraken’s do exist and he’s going to get himself one.

Young-White as Connor is a teen who is more like Ruby than Ruby realizes. He is also very sweet and I was rooting for him the whole time! Young, Franco and Koshy as her loving friends Bliss, Trevin, and Margot love their very exclusive group but also find themselves expanding their world.

Other vocal cast include Nicole Byer as Janice, Echo Kellum as Doug, Juju Green as the Gym teacher and Jordan Matter as School Principal.

DreamWorks Animation brings amazing, animated entertainment to films, television specials and series for the young and young at heart audiences around the world. For more of what they have to offer please visit http://www.dreamworksanimation.com.

Universal Pictures has an amazing film to their library. 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.

RUBY GILLMAN, TEENAGE KRAKEN is an awesomely wonderful (my granddaughter Jaycie’s words) film. It grabs colorfully onto the themes of love, family, friendship, being a teen, being a different kind of teen, acceptance, and a fierce loyalty to protect all of the above.

DreamWorks has done it again creating a visually stunning animated story but, and let’s be honest, I would expect nothing less from the studio. Always in the forefront of animation, the studio also remembers what is important to fans who love their work. Creativity, a solid story, characters that become iconic and memorable, Ruby Gillman can be added to that long list.

Family film does not even begin to describe RUBY GILLMAN, TEENAGE KRAKEN. It just has everything needed to bring people into the theatres with the tub of popcorn for a really good time. Prepare to laugh, awwww, cheer and leave said theatre with a smile on your face and so much to tell friends about.

In the end – discover the hero just beneath the surface!

SPIRIT UNTAMED is Filled with Family and Horses On Bluray

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray, DVD and Digital from director Elaine Bogan, DreamWorks and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment comes the story of family, friendship and being SPIRIT UNTAMED.

Lucky Prescott (voiced by Isabela Merced) is a young girl raised with her grandfather and Aunt Cora (Julianne Moore) after an accident took the life of her mother. Father Jim (Jake Gyllenhaal) felt that sending Lucky to live with his family would keep her safe. The problem is Lucky seems to be just a little too much now for the Prescotts.

Aunt Cora packs Lucky a bag and off they go into the West to see Jim in the town of Miradero. Looking for a little excitement, she gets her first taste when a horse runs next to the train and Lucky is thrilled. Getting to Miradero, there is an odd reunion between Lucky and her father but she takes the opportunity to get to know the town.

She meets Abigail (Mckenna Grace) who is just a ball of song and Pru (Marsai Martin) the amazing horse rider whose father Al (Andre Braugher) owns the local coral. In the coral she is surprised to find the horse that was chasing the train! She wants so much to make a connection with him, but her father warns her to stay away!

Well, he does not know that Lucky is determined to bond with the horse she names Spirit and is appalled when she sees an underhanded wrangler (Walton Coggins) treating him so badly. A few apples later, Lucky has made a friend and wants to help Spirit.

With the help of her friends and a long perilous journey, Lucky and Spirit will reunite and create a friendship that will last them both a lifetime.

Merced voicing Lucky gives her animated character a unique personality. She is feisty, curious and a bit wild but that is what makes her amazingly wonderful. At a young age Lucky thinks she knows who she is until that all changes learning who her mother was to so many people. Fighting for the right thing is never wrong but can be a little dangerous for Lucky without the help of friends and a horse named Spirit.

Moore as Aunt Cora is actually quite hilarious to me. She seems to have the water on a ducks back mentality because nothing gets to her. It might grab her attention for a second, but she always adjusts. She sees a need for Lucky to be with her father and also to straighten out Jim’s household for Lucky’s sake. Gyllenhaal as Jim is a man that has not come to terms with his wife’s passing or how to handle a young daughter that is growing up quickly. Trying to be a father is not easy and Lucky does not exactly make it easy either!

Grace as Abigail is too lively, spirited and knows how to handle little brothers. Give her a horse and a rope and its all good and together. Seeing the relationship grow between Lucky and Spirit, she encourages it along with friend Pru. Martin as Pru is a young lady made for a horse and loves every moment of it with the support of her dad. She also sees how patient Lucky is with Spirit and helps her learn how to be a friend to the wild mustang.

Coggins as the wrangler is as evil as he wants to be but that is the best part of being in an animated film. He gives us the face of someone you would never want to meet in a dark alley and just as stubborn as Lucky – and they both want Spirit.

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment has just added an amazing film to their library and making it available for us to all experience and re-experience in our own home theaters. 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.

DreamWorks Animation brings amazing, animated entertainment to films, television specials and series for the young and young at heart audiences around the world. For more of what they have to offer please visit http://www.dreamworksanimation.com.

The bonus Features on Bluray include Deleted/Extended Scenes, Finding Your Spirit: Meet the cast and filmmakers behind SPIRIT UNTAMED, Behind the Voices – The Cast: It’s always fun to see the people behind the voices, Cowgirls Rule: More details about the female-focused story, Drawing Spirit – SPIRIT UNTAMED: A unique look and chance to learn from one of the talented artists, and Create Your Own Indoor Campfire: Using crepe paper and LED Lights to build your own campfire at home, How to Ukelele: Discover how to create your very own ukulele at home.

Also, Snack Time – S’Mores: This tasty ‘how to’ feature on making traditional S’more treats, Abigail’s Hand Shadow Secret: How to make shadow puppets, How to Zoetrope: How-to video to make your own zoetrope, Sing-Alongs: Sing-along around your own campfire and Feature Commentary with director Elaine Bogan, co-director Ennio Torresan and producer Karen Foster.

MOVIES ANYWHERE gives viewers the ability to download the Movies Anywhere App. With that you can view films by downloading or streaming to your favorite device using a Digital Code. For more information on Movies Anywhere please visit www.MoviesAnywhere.com.

SPIRIT UNTAMED is the story of friendship, love, loyalty and justice all wrapped up in a young girl discovering her heritage and a horse that knows exactly who he is and where he belongs. Finding each other began a test of patience and trust for both Lucky and Spirit that grows into something extremely special.

Having friends like Abigail and Pru who also see the injustice caused by the wrangler, are just as determined to help Lucky and Spirit make things right again. Lucky is learning that you can know true friends from both the two legged and four legged creatures of the world.

The film is also about family for both Lucky and Spirit. In Lucky’s case, she is learning about her mother and the heritage shared in Miradero. Meeting so many people who not only remember Lucky’s mother but see the same fire in the young girl. Spirit learns to trust the humans learning what they are about but also holds fierce to his herd as their leader.

Lucky and Spirit come to understand one another and that is everything.

In the end – nothing will break their spirit!

BOSS BABY 2: Family Business Bring Brothers Back Together

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Tom McGrath and DreamWorks animation is the story of two brothers who might just have to be reminded about family in BOSS BABY 2: Family Business.

Tim Templeton (James Marsden) is a grown-up family man with wife Carol (Eva Longoria) and daughters Tabitha (Ariana Greenblatt) and baby Tina (Amy Sedaris). Also, a stay-at-home Dad, he makes sure that his family is happy and filled with fun. Missing from his life is brother Theodore (Alec Baldwin) who has grown into a very rich CEO hedge fund businessman.

Recently daughter Tabitha seems to be growing apart from Dad Tim and he can not understand why. Going to the Acorn Center for Advanced Childhood run by Dr. Erin Armstrong who teaches the kids to be free thinkers. Tabitha is also preparing to take part in the school performance and does not want any help from Dad.

As the holidays approach, an unexpected visitor bursts into the Templeton home. Uncle Ted has come believing that something is wrong with Tabitha. That is when the brothers and Tina spend some alone time and they realize that she is on a mission for BabyCorp. Tina tells the brothers that they must infiltrate the Acorn Center because something is not right and to do that – that is right – they need to work together.

The brothers make a plan that turns their world upside down, but it is all done in the name of family!

Marsden as Timothy has grown up and being the father that not only loves his family but wants them to be happy in any way possible. Missing his brother, he buries that feeling and dedicates his life to Tabitha and Tina. Yet, the time has come for brothers to work together again and help BabyCorp keep their work going for all babies.

Baldwin as Ted is back with his usual amazing sarcasm, stunning wit and perfect delivery. Okay, so I am thrilled that Baldwin gets to have such a character that is so hysterically memorable with a script that gave this actor the opportunity to entertain. As the older Ted it is grand to see that some things never change – and happily so!

Sedaris as Tina makes a surprise entrance letting her father know that things have not changed much in the baby world. Getting Tim and Ted together for a mission is like trying to round up penguins on ice – difficult but not impossible. Greenblatt as Tabitha is a young girl trying to find her way. Her changes affect the relationship with her father, but Tim is not about to give up what he loves.

Let us talk Goldblum as Dr. Armstrong, first of all – I laughed so hard watching his character on the screen with the matching wit of Ted and disguised sticky sweet sarcasm. Goldblum lends his recognizable vocals to a character that has plans of his own. He has his own secret to share and once exposed, it is up to Ted and Tim to do what they do best, be brothers!

Other cast include Jimmy Kimmel as Grandpa Ted Templeton Sr. and Lisa Kudrow as Grandma Janice Templeton.

DreamWorks Animation brings amazing, animated entertainment to films, television specials and series for the young and young at heart audiences around the world. For more of what they have to offer please visit http://www.dreamworksanimation.com.

BOSS BABY 2: Family Business is such a fun film for everyone, and I plan to watch it again and again. I love that DreamWorks makes their animated film with humor that reaches everyone. The story is about family and the disconnect that sometimes happens, but it is also wrapped up in adventure and humor with the end result of remembering who we love and why.

The film is brightly animated, fast paced and just a giggle fest from start to finish. Baldwin, Marsden and Goldblum keep us on our mental toes while Greenblatt and Sedaris give us a look at the next generation that will deal with BabyCorp. Showing us a side of a stay-at-home Dad and the pressures of a pre-teen invite us into the Templeton family and my family hopes they will come again.

Get the entire family together and see what the Templeton gang are up to bringing laughs, adventure and pure enjoyment in a time where we welcome them with open arms.

In the end – playtime is over!

 

 

SPIRIT UNTAMED is Filled with Family and Horses

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Elaine Bogan and DreamWorks comes the story of family, friendship and being SPIRIT UNTAMED.

Lucky Prescott (voiced by Isabela Merced) is a young girl raised with her grandfather and Aunt Cora (Julianne Moore) after an accident took the life of her mother. Father Jim (Jake Gyllenhaal) felt that sending Lucky to live with his family would keep her safe. The problem is Lucky seems to be just a little too much now for the Prescotts.

Aunt Cora packs Lucky a bag and off they go into the West to see Jim in the town of Miradero. Looking for a little excitement, she gets her first taste when a horse runs next to the train and Lucky is thrilled. Getting to Miradero, there is an odd reunion between Lucky and her father but she takes the opportunity to get to know the town.

She meets Abigail (Mckenna Grace) who is just a ball of song and Pru (Marsai Martin) the amazing horse rider whose father Al (Andre Braugher) owns the local coral. In the coral she is surprised to find the horse that was chasing the train! She wants so much to make a connection with him, but her father warns her to stay away!

Well, he does not know that Lucky is determined to bond with the horse she names Spirit and is appalled when she sees an underhanded wrangler (Walton Coggins) treating him so badly. A few apples later, Lucky has made a friend and wants to help Spirit.

With the help of her friends and a long perilous journey, Lucky and Spirit will reunite and create a friendship that will last them both a lifetime.

Merced voicing Lucky gives her animated character a unique personality. She is feisty, curious and a bit wild but that is what makes her amazingly wonderful. At a young age Lucky thinks she knows who she is until that all changes learning who her mother was to so many people. Fighting for the right thing is never wrong but can be a little dangerous for Lucky without the help of friends and a horse named Spirit.

Moore as Aunt Cora is actually quite hilarious to me. She seems to have the water on a ducks back mentality because nothing gets to her. It might grab her attention for a second, but she always adjusts. She sees a need for Lucky to be with her father and also to straighten out Jim’s household for Lucky’s sake. Gyllenhaal as Jim is a man that has not come to terms with his wife’s passing or how to handle a young daughter that is growing up quickly. Trying to be a father is not easy and Lucky does not exactly make it easy either!

Grace as Abigail is too lively, spirited and knows how to handle little brothers. Give her a horse and a rope and its all good and together. Seeing the relationship grow between Lucky and Spirit, she encourages it along with friend Pru. Martin as Pru is a young lady made for a horse and loves every moment of it with the support of her dad. She also sees how patient Lucky is with Spirit and helps her learn how to be a friend to the wild mustang.

Coggins as the wrangler is as evil as he wants to be but that is the best part of being in an animated film. He gives us the face of someone you would never want to meet in a dark alley and just as stubborn as Lucky – and they both want Spirit.

DreamWorks Animation brings amazing animated entertainment to films, television specials and series for the young and young at heart audiences around the world. For more of what they have to offer please visit http://www.dreamworksanimation.com.

SPIRIT UNTAMED is the story of friendship, love, loyalty and justice all wrapped up in a young girl discovering her heritage and a horse that knows exactly who he is and where he belongs. Finding each other began a test of patience and trust for both Lucky and Spirit that grows into something extremely special.

Having friends like Abigail and Pru who also see the injustice caused by the wrangler, are just as determined to help Lucky and Spirit make things right again. Lucky is learning that you can know true friends from both the two legged and four legged creatures of the world.

The film is also about family for both Lucky and Spirit. In Lucky’s case, she is learning about her mother and the heritage shared in Miradero. Meeting so many people who not only remember Lucky’s mother but see the same fire in the young girl. Spirit learns to trust the humans learning what they are about but also holds fierce to his herd as their leader.

Lucky and Spirit come to understand one another and that is everything.

In the end – nothing will break their spirit!

Universal Pictures Home Entertainment and the Best Giveaway Ever!

 

FOCUS FEATURES 10-MOVIE SPOTLIGHT COLLECTION

ON BLU-RAY™ ON SEPTEMBER 29, 2020

 Since its founding in 2002, Focus Features has been synonymous with innovative and critically acclaimed film-making. The iconic studio presents their renowned films that illuminate some of Hollywood’s greatest writers, directors, and actors in the Focus Features:10-Movie Spotlight Collection! Totaling an impressive 7 Academy Awards® and 11 Golden Globes® wins, the film set includes Lost in Translation, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Pride & Prejudice, Brokeback Mountain, Atonement, Burn After Reading, Moonrise Kingdom, The Theory of Everything, On the Basis of Sex and Harriet. With films from acclaimed directors such as The Coen Brothers, Sophia Coppola, Ang Lee and Wes Anderson, this collection is loaded with bonus features including filmmaker feature commentaries, cast interviews, deleted scenes and more!

 

 

BLUMHOUSE OF HORRORS: 10-MOVIE COLLECTION

ON BLU-RAY™ AND DVD ON SEPTEMBER 29, 2020

 Invite yourself into the BLUMHOUSE OF HORRORS: 10-MOVIE COLLECTION and visit the most thrilling, chilling, and unforgettable characters from Get Out, The Purge, Ouija, Split, The Visit, Unfriended, Truth or Dare, The Boy Next Door, Happy Death Day, and Ma. The studio and filmmakers, including Jordan Peele and M. Night Shyamalan, that redefined the genre of horror present ten of the most spine-tingling films that will have you running for the front door! The collection includes iconic horror and suspense thrillers with all-star casts including Ethan Hawke, Jennifer Lopez, Octavia Spencer, James McAvoy and more. There are hours of bonus content including featurettes, deleted scenes, alternate endings, behind-the-scenes & much more! 

 

 

ALFRED HITCHCOCK CLASSICS COLLECTION

OWN THE BRAND NEW 4K ULTRA HD COMBO PACK

WITH A BLU-RAY™ AND DIGITAL CODE ON SEPTEMBER 8, 2020

 Universally recognized as the Master of Suspense, the legendary Alfred Hitchcock directed some of cinema’s most thrilling and unforgettable classics. The ALFRED HITCHCOCK CLASSICS COLLECTION features four iconic films from the acclaimed director’s illustrious career including Rear Window, Vertigo, Psycho and The Birds in stunning 4K resolution. Starring Hollywood favorites such as James Stewart, Grace Kelly, Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, Tippi Hedren, Kim Novak and Rod Taylor, this essential collection features hours of bonus features as well as the original uncut version of Psycho for the first time ever. This collection with collectible Discbook packaging includes hours of bonus features such as documentaries, expert commentaries, interviews, screen tests and much more!

 

 

DREAMWORKS 10-MOVIE COLLECTION

OWN THESE ANIMATED CLASSICS

ON BLU-RAY™ AND DVD ON SEPTEMBER 29, 2020

Relive each classic moment as an ogre, a panda, a yeti, and so many more of your favorite characters embark on epic journeys across their worlds. With lots of laughs and breathtakingly beautiful animation, this collection is perfect for children and parents alike. The fun-filled collection includes Shrek, Madagascar, Home, Spirit: Stallion of Cimarron, How to Train your Dragon, The Croods, Kung Fu Panda, Boss Baby, Abominable, and Trolls! The DREAMWORKS 10-MOVIE COLLECTION comes with hours of bonus features including animated shorts, music videos, deleted scenes, and much more for the whole family! 

 

 

 

ILLUMINATION PRESENTS 10-MOVIE COLLECTION

ON BLU-RAY™ AND DVD ON SEPTEMBER 29, 2020

Illumination presents all ten of their blockbuster comedies in one collection for the whole family. It includes all three Despicable Me films, The Secret life of Pets 1 & 2, Hop, Minions, Sing, Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax, and Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch! With all-star voice casts including Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Kevin Hart, Jenny Slate, Sandra Bullock, and Michael Keaton, the ILLUMINATION PRESENTS 10-MOVIE COLLECTION is packed with hours of bonus content including mini-movies, sing-alongs, games and more! 

 

 

 

This is a fantastic way to start the holiday season and…if you are good…Santa might be able to help that fun begin! We are giving away one of each collection so it is very simple. Go to http://moviemaven.homestead.com and find out how you can add one of these to your own home entertainment library and...HAPPY JOYFUL EARLY HOLIDAYS!!

Remember – Choose One! Whether it be Hitchcock or DreamWorks we think you will enjoy!

Ready for the Holidays Because Iconic Characters Are!

Jeri Jacquin

Ready to start celebrating the holidays? Well you should be as DreamWorks and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment have a way to start us all off with ULTIMATE HOLIDAY COLLECTION!

Starting with TROLLS HOLIDAY, Poppy realizes that the Bergens have lost their only holiday and she is determined to help them find happiness. Wanting to make sure there is as much glitter as possible, Poppy and Branch head to Bergentown to meet with friends Bridgett and King Grissom To discuss what can be done. Happiness is what Poppy and the Trolls are all about and creating a new holiday is what they are all about.

Poppy get a little carried away and it causes a little problem in her friendship with the Bergen queen. You can imagine that friendship can heal so much and it happens for Bergentown and the Trolls as well. So come aboard the love train and prepare your feet to dance and new songs to sing!

Anna Kendrick, Justin Timberlake, James Corden, Zooey Daschnel, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, and James Corden return in their iconic character roles to show us the awesomeness that is creating a Bergen holiday that everybody can enjoy.

SHREK THE HALLS brings Shrek, Donkey and Fiona along with their new family to celebrate the holidays. The problem is that Shrek doesn't really know how to celebrate it. Getting a quick lesson on what needs to be done, Shrek takes it upon himself to create his own version of decking the halls.

Of course Donkey has to put in his opinion but Fiona knows exactly what Shrek is trying to do so, as a family, they decorate and create their own magic. Shrek's friends crash to bring all the mayhem Shrek was trying to avoid not being a party person. After being 'ogreish', the secret about Shrek's idea of a holiday comes out.

In DONKEY'S CAROLING CHRISTMAS-TACULAR has Donkey thrilled about the holiday parties and the apple bobbing, stockings and everyone singing Christmas carols. Of course depending on who you are, the songs are a little different. The ogres sing about rat pies and Puss n' Boots sings about itching and a bit of fairy tale rocking!

Mike Meyers, Cameron Diaz, Antonio Banderas and Eddie Murphy gives us everything we love about these story book characters celebrating the first Shrek family holiday!

MERRY MADAGASCAR brings Alex, Marty, Melvin and Sylvia heading back to New York for the holidays, well that is until their balloon is brought down my Julian and the gang. They thought the balloon was their dreaded Red Night Marauding Goblin who turns out to be Santa Claus!

Now sporting a case of amnesia, the jungle gang must do what Santa can't, deliver the presents to the world and hitch a ride home to New York. It is a holiday chore that reminds us of why these hilarious animals are friends till the end. On the island Julian is learning about giving and Santa has a special gift for them all.

Ben Stiller, David Schwimmer, Jada Pinkett Smith, Chris Rock, Cedric the Entertainer,  and Danny Jacobs return to give us their idea of the holidays!

THE MADAGASCAR PENGUINES A Christmas Caper has everyone celebrating at the New York Zoo as the Private tells Skipper that the Polar Bear isn't as jolly as everyone else. When the Private sneaks out to find a gift for the sad polar bear, the Skipper notices him gone. Now the penguins are on a mission to find their missing friend!

DRAGONS GIFT OF THE NIGHT FURY takes us back to the town of Berg where Hiccup and Toothless prepare for the towns own brand of holidays. Without warning, all the dragons take off leaving the night fury behind. Realizing its because he can't fly without Hiccup, a new tale is created and off Toothless goes. The whole town truly begins to miss their dragons.

When Hiccup discovers one dragon hidden away, he is taken on a long flight to an island where the dragons are together with their young for a season of nesting. Back on Berg, Astrid and the gang discover that a batch of eggs left behind bring a big bang of a surprise and when all are reunited there is such a celebration that only Berg can dream up.

Jay Baruchel, Craig Ferguson, America Ferrera, Jonah Hill, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, T.J. Miller, Kristen Wiig and Gerard Butler and the gang return to Berg giving us a little dragon with our holiday grog. 

KUNG FU PANDA holiday brings our favorite Dragon Warrior dealing with the Winter Feast. Shifu tells Po that the festival is very formal and very traditional with all the Kung Fu Masters coming to celebrate. With this traditional feast comes a lot of things to learn but upsetting Po the most is that he is not allowed to invite his dad.

Now Po must decide between being the host to the traditional Winter Feast as the Dragon Warrior and making Master Shifu proud or to be with his father Ping being a good son. Holidays are about family and everyone is about to learn a lesson from the Dragon Warrior!

Jack Black, Dustin Hoffman, Angelina Jolie, Seth Rogen, Lucy Liu, David Cross, Jack McBrayer, Dan Fogler, Jackie Chan and James Hong lend their voices for the holiday animated fun.

HOME For the Holidays tells the story of Oh learning about Christmas and all of the traditions that include baking, songs, snowmen and connecting with everyone about the warmth of the holidays. In this animated holiday story, everyone can be sure that Oh will give us a chance to see everything through his eyes.

The Boov got carried away when Oh tried to explain the workings of the holiday. This causes a rift between Oh and Tip and the town is blaming them both for ruining Christmas. Chicago is now floating and someone's got to fix it. Oh also learns about the different customs and how we all celebrate with the ones we love. Kelly Clarkson brings her voice to Oh Holy Night!

As an amazing bonus the full film of RISE OF THE GUARDIANS which has become a holiday must-see in my family. Jack Frost (Chris Pine) is being called on by North aka Santa (Alec Baldwin), the Bunny (Hugh Jackman), the Sandman, the Tooth (Isla Fischer) to help them fight the very dangerous Pitch (Jude Law).

Pitch wants to make children forget about the wonderful holidays that bring them so much joy by replacing it all with fear and darkness. The Guardians aren't about to let that happen and Jack, although not quite a Guardian, is also in to help. He has friends as Jamie (Dakota Goyo), Caleb (Khmani Griffin), Claude (Kamil McFadden), Sophie (Georgie Grieve) and Monty (Jacob Bertrand) are about to show Jack what true friendship means!

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

DreamWorks Animation brings amazing animated entertainment to films, television specials and series for the young and young at heart audiences around the world. For more of what they have to offer please visit http://www.dreamworksanimation.com.

The Bonus Features of this collection are Shrek's Yule Log, 12 Days of Christmas Pop-up Book, 4 Penguins Sing-Along Videos and so much more!

This is just an absolutely fantastic edition to anyone, like me, who has a home entertainment library section dedicated to the holidays. Growing up in the 60's and 70's, I had my share of holiday favorites that are still being shown yearly even to this very day. That being said there is certainly nothing wrong with opening up hearts and homes to additional stories.

All of these are about home, love, friendship, family (and everyone you love is family), standing up for the right thing, defending those who need defending and all the craziness that can be found during the season.

Of course there is chaos and a little mayhem, but there is also singing, dancing, sharing and enjoying each other's company through it all. What this ultimate collection truly does is remind us of the season in ways that we sometimes forget during the year and to seriously lighten up a little, okay a lot!

In the end - if you are going to have the ultimate of holidays then you need the ultimate collection!

ABOMINABLE Brings Heart and Music

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from writer/director Jill Culton, Todd Wilderman and DreamWorks Animation comes the story of loss, love and friendship with ABOMINABLE.

Yi (Chloe Bennet) is a young girl with big dreams. After the loss of her violinist father, all Yi wants to do is take a special trip on her own. Worried is Grandmother Nai Nai (Tsai Chin) and Mom (Michelle Wong) who notice

that Yi is constantly disappearing all day. Also noticing is young Peng (Albert Tsai) but all he wants is to be a famous basketball player while brother Jin (Tenzing Trainor) is into shoes, perfect hair and social media. All Yi wants

to do is work hard, save money and spend time up on the roof.

What she doesn't expect is to find an injured Yeti in her special place! Figuring out that the helicopters flying over the city are looking for the Yeti, Yi deciphers that he is only wanting to get home. Looking for him is Mr. Burnish (Eddie Izzard) who plans to showcase the Yeti and Dr. Zara (Sarah Paulson) who wants to save the species. Peng and Jin discover what Yi has been hiding and alert Burnishs' henchmen starting a chase through the city.

Finding a way out of the city unnoticed, Yi names her new furry friend Everest and is joined by a thrilled Peng and a begrudging Jin. Their journey on foot is long as they make their way to Mt. Everest believed to be his home.

On their way Yi and Jin become reacquainted while Peng and Everest are having the time of their lives. Unfortunately they are being followed by Burnish and Dr. Zara which brings about a made chase.

That doesn't stop Yi, Jin, and Peng from their goal - get to the bridge that leads Everest home!

Bennet as Yi is a young girl trying to fill a space in her life by staying busy and trying to find what will bring her joy again. Playing the violin brings her closer to the father she misses dearly. Finding Everest, although frightening in the beginning, starts to understand and care deeply for his life. Wong as Yi's Mother can feel the distancing and doesn't know how to help her daughter. The winner here is Nai Nai, she is straight forward, has the most hilarious answers and makes awesome looking pork buns (which would make the Kung Fu Panda drool).

Trainor as Jin is a young man who is doing exactly what it seems all young people are doing. Making sure the shoes and hair are perfect and his social media likes are on point. He doesn't have time for his brother and he

pretends not to notice how Yi is behaving. Tsai as Peng is absolutely hilarious! He is forgiving of those who ignore him, he is fun and has big dreams and a perfect playmate for Everest.

Paulson as Dr. Zara is on the run trying to find Everest before he disappears back into the mountains. She has an agenda and won't stop until she gets the Yeti back where she thinks he belongs. Izzard as Burnish was an

explorer in his younger days and finding Everest is the highlight of his life. He isn't about to back down and brings out every piece of technology he has to find the Yeti.

DreamWorks has done it again with ABOMINABLE with a storyline that is charming, characters that are relatable and a Yeti that has a big personality to make his size. Now that being said, I can tell that there is a little bit of HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON in here. Everest has Toothless' eyes and charm which is why he is going to be a winner. I don't mind that Everest looks like Toothless because I am a huge fan (check out my desk if you don't believe me and you'll find a few Toothless items)

ABOMINABLE is filled with everyone we have come to love about animated films in the past few years. The story is endearing, the characters are embraceable and, in the case of Everest, huggable with a film full of 'awwwwwww's. The animation is brilliantly colorful and the music, especially the violin piece, is so lovely.

It is a beautiful film filled with themes of family, friendships, loyalty and remembering that doing the right thing means going all in to make that right thing happen. The friendship between Yi and Everest is so meaningful. The friendship between Everest and Peng had me laughing so much and shows everyone the power of fun in a life that seems so serious.

This is the film that deserves a family outing including popcorn, red vines and a bit of a cuddle during the film. It is a family film that reaches every age group and goes straight to the heart and tear ducts. What's more, everyone is going to want an Everest of their own - I wouldn't mind it!

In the end - find your way home!