The Sounds of VIVO

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on Bluray, DVD and includes an all-new Sing Along Edition from director Kirk DeMicco and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is the song and story of VIVO.

It is the beautiful place of Havana, Cuba where Andres (Juan de Marcos Gonzalez) and his best friend Kinkajou Vivo (Lin-Manuel Miranda) spend their time playing music together. They are enjoying life together when an unexpected letter comes to the door. Marta Sandoval (Gloria Estafan) is about to retire from music and there is a history between she and Andres.

Going to Miami is a chance for Andre to finally, after all these years tell Marta his feelings for her and a song he wrote. Vivo becomes a tad jealous thinking that he will be left behind and accepting what is best for his friend. Unfortunately, their meeting is never meant to be. The arrival of Rosa (Zoe Saldana) and young Gabi (Ynairaly Simo) also changes Vivo’s life.

It is a chance to get to Miami so that Vivo can find Marta and give her the music that Andre always wanted her to hear. That can only happen if Gabi can get away from her group of girls called the San Dollars. Finally able to find Marta, Vivo watches a change in Rosa and Gabi and becomes a new resident of Miami!

Miranda as Vivo is a fun loving and loyal Kinkajou when it comes to his friend Andres. Then he knows what must be done for his friend and that’s when his adventure begins. Seeing the world in a different way and in a different city, Vivo is determined! Miranda gives a sweet spot to this character with his wonderful voice.

Simo as Gabi is not like the girls around her. She sees the world through different eyes and colors, and I could not love this character more. It is a wonderful character for young girls who are trying to find where they fit in by being themselves in unique and colorful ways. My granddaughter absolutely loved Gabi and Vivo together.

Gonzalez as Andres loves his life in Cuba with Vivo and the news of a secret love brings him so much joy. So much so that Vivo makes it his mission to do what Andres could not. Estefan as Marta lends her memories of a past with Andres as well as her voice to bring the film to a wonderful and tissue worthy conclusion.

Other cast include Brian Tryree as Dancarino, Nicole Nyer as Valentina, Katie Lowes as Becky, Olivia Trujillo as Eva, Lidya Jewett as Sarah, Christian Ochoa as Montoya, Bradon Jeffords as Mr. Henshaw, Gloria Kellett as Gloria, Leslie Baker as Bob and Michael Rooker as Lutador,.

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment encompasses motion picture production for television, digital content and theater releases. The studios include Columbia Pictures, Screen Gems, TriStar Pictures, Sony Pictures Animation, Stage 6 Films and Sony Picture Classics. To see what is coming to theaters and to home entertainment please visit www.sonypictures.com.

VIVO is a colorful, wonderful, fun, musical story about loyalty, fun, adventure, love, dedication and friendship. Those are all fantastic reasons to see this film with your entire family. The music with Lin-Manuel Miranda leading the cast of characters is such a joy.

There is so much about this film that teaches children that friendship can come from anyplace, just ask a Kinkaju and love always finds its way back to someone’s heart. There is also Gabi’s story as this young girl just loves being unique and is learning that sometimes you have to stand up for that uniqueness, even if it costs just a little bit.

The animation is absolutely colorful which ask such heart and soul to the story. I watched the film with my family and trust me when I say this is one for the entire family to enjoy, of all ages.

In the end – one song can change anything!

 

 

The Friendship of BRIAN AND CHARLES

 

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from director Jim Archer and Focus Features is an unusual story of friendship that is all about BRIAN AND CHARLES.

In the grey quiet valley of North Wales lives Brian (David Earl), an unusual gentleman living alone spending his days tinkering. Inventing a little of this and a little of that, he never really gets down when an idea does not exactly succeed. Embracing life with a good sense of humor, Brian lives one day at a time.

Then, after pilfering through things on the side of the road, he gets an idea – to create a robot! In no time, standing before him is a seven-foot-tall robot with a square midsection, one blue eye and a mannequin head. None of this seems out of the ordinary to Brian, what does is that his creation does not wake up when he flicks the switch.

Oh well, Brian moves on and after spending the day taking care of errands, he returns home in time for a thunderstorm. He quickly discovers that the robot is very much alive! Deciding he likes the name ‘Charles’, Brian discovers what his new friend is capable of. Charles (Chris Hayward) walks, talks and is very curious.

Spending plenty of time together, Charles then wants to go outside the boundaries Brian has set for him and the boxy creation is not happy. Challenging Brian at every turn, Charles almost sounds like a rebellious teen. Then Hazel (Louise Brealey) enters their lives, and she gets to experience Charles and Brian together. So does the local bully Eddie (Jamie Michie) and his equally bullying family.

Deciding THEY want Charles, a show-down that has been a long-time coming pits man against, well, Charles!

Earl as Brian is just about as comfortable with himself as any character I have seen in quite a while. He sees the world in a special way and does not apologize for it, nor should he. The townsfolk accept it (given one particular family) and when Charles comes along, everything in his life seems to open up more enjoyment. Earl is so charming in this role that is becomes impossible not to want every happy ending ever for him. Well done, Earl!

Hayward as Charles is delightful, stubborn, loving, testy and brooding at times. Oh wait, that sounds exactly like my kids when they were teenagers! That’s probably what made me laugh the most about Charles, as he goes through his stages, as a mom, I recognize every one of them. One thing is clear, Charles loves Brian when most would say it is impossible for a ‘machine’ to love. Charles can change their minds easily, well done Hayward.

Brealy as Hazel is sweet, sensitive, shy, supportive and so in love with Brian. She does not seem to flinch one bit when she meets Charles, just accepts that whatever makes Earl happy is alright with her. She immediately after becomes the female figure in Charles’ life and he could have had a better one.

Michie as Eddie is just the town bully who refuses to grow up. His antics are mean and dangerous, and it does not help that his family encourages it. Now, that being said, well done when a character can make me yell at the screen!

Other cast include Nina Sosanya as Pam, Lynn Hunter as Winnie, Lowri Izzard as Katrina, Mari Izzard as Suki, Cara Chase as June, Rishi Nair as Stephen, Colin Bennett as Arthur and Nicholas Asbury as Stu.

Director Archer says of the film, “You need to believe in their relationship and that Charles is more than a mannequin’s head stuck onto a washing machine. Once we achieved this, then I think the comedy takes care of itself.”

Hoping to take something away from with film, Earl as Brian says, “I just hope we trick the audience into believing Charles is a robot and not just Chris Hayward standing in a box. Hopefully they fall in love with this bizarre little due, and all the other broken little characters in the film.”

Hayward says about his role of Charles, “There are several themes running through the film; loneliness, friendship, love and loss. But it’s mainly about the journey of a ridiculous man and a ridiculous robot.”

BRIAN AND CHARLES was written by both Earl and Hayward which makes it especially magical that these two brought their thoughts to a script and then to screen so beautifully. Without the outside world involved in the beginning, a chance for these two characters to explore their small piece of the world is important. The end result, without spoiling it, say everything about small town living.

This is one of the kindest films in that their relationship can not be defined. They both are who they are and that, ladies and gentlemen, is absolutely everything.

In the end – some friendships are built to last!

A Story of the Sea and THE KING’S DAUGHTER

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray and Digital from director Sean McNamara and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is the story of THE KING’S DAUGHTER.

Marie-Josephine (Kaya Scodelario) is a handful and being raised in a convent in France. She loves the sea and often brings a little trouble with her for the nuns. Also in France is King Louis XIV (Pierce Brosnan), who begins to feel his mortality when struck by a bullet from an angry villager. His physician, Dr. Labarthe (Pablo Schreiber) tells him about magical properties that can be found in mermaids.

Sending Captain Yves De La Croix (Benjamin Walker), the King has one order, capture the mermaid creature and bring it back. Louis wants to perform a ritual during the coming eclipse that will make him immortal. Someone who is against what the King wants to do is Father Francois La Chaise (William Hurt).

But the good Father is on his own mission, to bring Marie-Josephine back to Versailles to play music. When she arrives, she meets Magali (Crystal Clarke) who fills her in on palace life. What Marie-Josephine does not know is that the King needs money and in order to do that he is willing to marry her off to Jean-Michel Lintillac (Ben Lloyd-Hughes).

Creating a friendship with the mermaid, Marie-Josephine and Captain De La Croix also see each other differently. As the eclipse draws near and with Father La Chaise unable to stop what is about to happen, a plan is formed to help the mermaid escape and rejoin her own family.

Scodelairo as Marie-Josephine is a young woman who is a tad defiant and very talented musically. She is excited to be brought to Versailles until she slowly uncovers the reasons. Befriending the mermaid, a bond is formed that pushes her do to whatever it takes to save her.

Brosnan as King Louis is a narcissistic man who thinks being immortal will keep France safe when I believe more that he just wants to be immortal. Even when his advisers try to sway him from doing the mermaid harm, he wants what he wants and after all – he is the King.

Hurt as Father La Chaise believes that the King could be such a good man if he would stop listening to others feeding into doing harm. Once he understands the mermaid, it is time to help both the lady of the sea and the young Marie-Josephine both find their true destinies. It is nice to see Hurt one last time on the screen and in this role as such a loving and caring person.

Walker as De La Croix is ordered by the King to bring back a mermaid, but he slowly sees what Marie-Josephine sees in the lovely sea lady. He also begins to have feelings for the lovely land lady as well. Now it’s the pull between the orders given by the King and what his heart knows is right.

Schreiber as Labarthe is just a sinister doctor in refined clothing. He is the reason for the plight of the mermaid and nothing or no one is going to stop him. Even as Marie-Josephine tries over and over to get the King to see the error of his ways, Labarthe twists everything. Schreiber has the demeanor of someone I would not want to mess with.

Clarke as Magali is a young woman who is thrilled to befriend Marie-Josephine. Together, she knows Versailles and its ways and helping her new friend becomes so important. Clarke is sweet and clever and plays this role divinely.

Other cast include Paul Ireland as Benoit, Terry Norris as Great Chamberlain, Kasia Kaczmarek as Sister Constance, Jessica Clarke as Madam Devereaux, Kaya Blocks and Bingbing Fan as The Mermaid.

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.

Gravitas Ventures is a worldwide film distribution company that connections the global audience of over a billion people. Celebrating 15 years, they have had the honor to collaborate with thousands of artists to share important films. Gravitas was one of the first companies to develop a global network of digital media platforms like Video on Demand with a simple mission to deliver ideas that could bridge filmmakers to audiences. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.gravitasventures.com.

Bonus Features include Deleted Scenes and Cast Reflections on THE KING’S DAUGHTER.

THE KING’S DAUGHTER is a fanciful adventure of love, relationships, mermaids and doing what is right no matter the cost. There are characters that are out for themselves and what serves them best and there are characters who know that that is no way to live.

It is a lovely story and, truth be told, my granddaughter loved it, especially the mermaid as that is what she so loves right now. The mythical beauty comes to the screen, and she could not have been any happier, well, unless it was actually swimming with a mermaid instead of Marie-Josephine.

That is what makes the story so lovely!

 

In the end – a King, his daughter and a hidden world!

Rescuing Us All is the Charming MY SWEET MONSTER

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to DVD from directors Viktor Blukhushin, Maksim Volkov, Grindstone and Lionsgate is the animated story of a wild adventure for MY SWEET MONSTER.

Princess Barbara (Haylie Duff) is growing up in a palace with a father who does not seem to want her to grow up. As the castle prepares for her birthday, the princess can be found in the clock tower waiting for a letter from her prince. When her father discovers that she is reading romance novels, he seals up the room and tells her to ready herself for the party.

But the princess has been waiting patiently for a letter from Prince Edward who has been writing her. Weasel (Pauly Shore), the local postal clerk, decides to deliver a letter but he has a weasel-ish plan of his own for the princess. The King is not happy when he reads the letter where Prince Edward professes his love for the princess.

When Weasel finds something in the palace that could ruin everything, he makes a deal with the King, a deal that the Princess is not going to stand for. Calling her trusted steed Fireball, she takes off for the woods with Weasel not far behind. Thinking he finally has the princess, Weasel could never have expected a talking rabbit and a very large, well, monster name Bogey.

As Weasel returns to the palace, he wants to know what the blue liquid is that he is bribing the King with, and the story unfolds about a mystical place in the kingdom where he got ‘the spark’. Back in the forest, the Princess and Bogey get to know one another even though it is a rough relationship. Bogey explains that it is not the King who owns the land, but it in fact belongs to Mother Nature.

Discovering the truth about her father and who she is, the princess asks Bogey for help as Weasel uses the spark to try and create destruction taking over the palace. He only wants one thing, to be all powerful and get the princess back.

The rabbit tells the princess the story of Bogey and how he came to be with the help of Mother Nature and the truth of why rabbit can speak. Now that she knows the story, it is just in time as Weasel sends out his metal arm to wreak havoc over the kingdom. As the Princess looks for help from Prince Edward, she is shocked to discover that their kingdom is not the only place where deceit lives.

Now, the Princess, Bogey, and Rabbit must come to terms with the choices that have to be made to save them all!

Lionsgate is a global leader in motion picture production and distribution for theatres, television, home entertainment and more. Theatre franchises include THE HUNGER GAMES, and DIVERGENT along with JOHN WICK. Now, adding this film to its 16,000-motion picture and television titles you can see everything coming soon as well as available now at http://www.lionsgate.com.

MY SWEET MONSTER is a charming and very colorful film for the entire family. It is a story of friendship, love, loyalty, secrets, and learning not to judge a book by its cover. There is music and song which gives the story even more charm. It is the characters that are intriguing and even delightful as each of their stories are told.

When evil and deception try to ruin a family, kingdom and friendships, it is loyalty and love that bring the best dreams alive! This is a chance to plan a family night and gather around the big screen for an adventure that will take us all away.

In the end – it is Cutie and the Beast!

WONDERFUL WORLD OF FRIENDS with the Sesame Street Gang

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to DVD from your friends at the Sesame Street Workshop and SHOUT! Factory Kids is a fun filled two hours of the WONDERFUL WORLD OF FRIENDS.

Elmo loves to talk about what it means to be friends with singing and dancing. He invites us to see the different faces and places of friends up and down Sesame Street. Alessia Cara teaches us all a song about how much we are all really alike. Showing it through dance we get to see all kinds of dancing and Nina shows us how to do it all.

From Salsa to Flamenco to the Tango, she tells us it takes two to tango and it is fun, but Elmo prefers the Elmo Slide and Chris joins in. Big Bird likes the Birdie Cha-Cha but Snuffy is not sure he can do it on the Do Your Favorite Dance Day. Instead, Snuffy teaches them all the dance he knows.

Billy Porter makes friends with a penguin and shows what can happen when you just say ‘hi!’. Oscar, Cookie Monster, Rosita and Elmo decide they want to build a very big bird feeder for their bird friend. They learn about an Indian holiday called Rakhi (and making bracelets for friends and family) from Chompki and Rosita shares how Indian bread and Mexican bread are very close to being the same. Chris also teaches Elmo how to make Indian food.

Gwen Stefani sings that sharing is caring and how to be a good friend as Cookie Monster, Elmo and Big Bird along with other Sesame Street get to learn about friendship. Rosita decides to write a book so that people will know what it really means to be Mexican.

Josh Groban joins Elmo, Abby and Rosita to sing once again about friendship and being together. Alan, Chris and the gang are having a food festival so that each of them can learn about other cultures. Food, clothing, dancing and what makes their cultures special. Elmo tries wontons, tamales and so much more but it is Rudy who is not willing to try the food.

Monster Foodies helps kids learn about recipes and how to make some fantastic goodies starting with smoothies. Elmo is thrilled to see John Legend behind the piano singing about what it means to come together. 

It is all about coming together through special friendships!

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.

Sesame Street: Wonderful World of Friends DVD Bonus Features include A Very Sesame Street Thanksgiving, and The Magical Wand Chase: A Sesame Street Special.

Sesame Street has spent three generations in our household. Beginning with myself and siblings watching and being guided in so many special ways by Kermit and Big Bird with Oscar the Grouch always making us laugh. Every morning we were treated to songs and learning that we never realized helped us in our youth.

When I began to have children, Sesame Street was always playing in the home as the kids were riveted once again and it always made me laugh to see them so happy. When the grandchildren arrived, Sesame Street became more than a television show – it also became a source of learning on the ipad with numbers, colors, and letters fun.

Sesame Street has always celebrated kids and family, did everything to capture children’s imagination and gave them the hunger to learn. It has embraced differences but helped children remember that being a good human being is the center of everything.

This DVD is fun, colorful, exciting, funny, sweet, musical and will have your feet tapping.

In the end – it is all about celebrating friendship!

BEST SELLERS

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming from director Lina Roessler and Screen Media is the story of two people who turn out to need each other during the worst of times with BEST SELLERS.

Lucy Stanbridge (Aubrey Plaza) is running a publishing company inherited from her father that needs a boost of energy to get it back on track. Turning to assistant Rachel Spence (Ellen Wong), they go through their list of writers they could work with, and the name Harris Shaw (Michael Caine) comes up.

First, they have to get through the door to meet with him! Shaw is not a pleasant individual and he makes sure that everyone knows it. Reminding him of his contractual obligations, Lucy reminds him that the publishing company is owed another book. Realizing he is in financial trouble, he gives up the manuscript for The Future is X-Rated.

Not happy that the book also has to be edited, he goes on a rant with not wanting his words “in incompetent hands”. That’s when Lucy makes him a deal, go on a book tour and the manuscript will not be edited. At his first public reading, he uses the word “bullshite” and takes off like hair on fire.

Shaw does not understand the fuss but if it gets him what he wants, then “bullshite” it is! Yet, the underlying story of both Lucy and Shaw become clearer and their working relationship changes as truth spill out and history gets cleaned up.

That’s the real story!

Caine as Shaw gets the opportunity to jump right in to being a grumpy, cantankerous, outspoken old man who wants to smoke his cigars and drink till he can not remember anything. Washing away his life memories, Caine gives his character no filter and no excuses in the beginning but all of that hides Shaw’s truths that cannot be hidden anymore.

Plaza as Lucy is a young woman who has a clear incentive to keeping her father’s publishing company up and running. Her character is clearly capable of doing the job, but her time with Shaw begins to change her perspective on life and as realities begin to change, Plaza gives us a young woman who begins to see things quite differently.

Also in the film is Scott Speedman as Jack Sinclair, Cary Elwes as Halpren Nolan, and Veronica Ferres as Drew Davis.

Screen Media is an international distributor of television series and films, licensing content through theatrical, home video, pay-per-view, free, cable and pay television, and subscription and advertising video-on-demand platforms.  In 2017 Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment, Inc. acquired Screen Media which is in its 23rd year as a leading global independent distribution company. With one of the largest independently owned libraries of filmed entertainment in the world and license agreements across all forms of media, Screen Media’s distribution capability enables direct distribution of all rights in all countries, thus enhancing the profitability of Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment productions. The company is continually looking to add films and television series to its content library.

Caine and Plaza are amazing together playing off one another’s fears and life stories. On screen together they give their characters such life in the midst of pain and frustration. The story is a simple one but filled with emotion that just gave me a heart pitty-pats. It is a very cool opportunity to watch these actors explore their lives from different angels.

BEST SELLERS is a heartwarming and heart wrenching film that is worth of a watch and a box of Kleenex. The film was also the Gala Presentation – 2021 Berlinale Film Festival. The relationship between these two characters begins with such anger and hostility but those emotions clearly mask what is really going on with both Shaw and Lucy. Watching these two actors bring out the best and worst is worth every frame.

In the end – the story is not always on the page!

His Search is for PIG

 

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from writer/director Michael Sarnoski and Neon is a story of a complex man who just wants his PIG. 

Rob (Nicolas Cage) is a forager that has been living in the woods of Portland for over ten years. Along with his pig, they forage during the day for truffles and enjoy the solitude together. The only time he has a visitor is when young Amir (Alex Wolff) arrives to collect the truffles and delivery the hermit supplies. Not interested in conversation of any kind, Amir goes on his way.

Later in the evening, Pig wakes Rob grunting at the door and the unthinkable happens – Pig is taken! Making his way back into the world, he relies on Amir to take him where he wants to go in search of his bovine. Clue after clue, Rob is back in the place he once had a name for himself, and it is a name not forgotten.

Amir is stunned to watch Rob navigate his way back into a world he gave up on so long ago. Each person they meet has their own story to tell about him and it leads to who is responsible for taking Pig!

Cage as Rob is so moving as a man who has his reasons for living a secluded life. The two things that made his life continue are truffles and Pig. The occasional visit from Amir seem to make him more irritated than anything else. I have come to appreciate Cage taking roles where he is more action than talk because anything else I may need to know shows in every part of his face. He gives Rob a fragile humanity that seems to escape Amir until he sees interactions with others.

Wolff as Amir is a young man who has made a business out of selling the truffles that Rob finds but also has a story of his own. Trying to make a life of his own away from a father who clearly has issues of his own, Wolff starts off Amir as a fast driving, narcissistic young man who weaves his way into a business with Rob that keeps him from needing anything from daddy dearest. Yet, there is a heartbreak he must come to terms with.

Other cast include Adam Arkin as Darius, Gretchen Corbett as Mac, Darius Pierce as Edgar, Julia Bray as Tweakette, Elijah Ungvary as Tweaker and Nina Belforte as Charlotte.

Neon is a film production company that is best known for such films as I, TONYA and one of the most incredible Oscar winning film PARASITE. With a total of 12 Academy Award nominations, Neon appeals to audiences that are looking for in-your-face storytelling. For more information please visit www.neonrated.com.

Director Sarnoski says, “What began as a very personal project has transformed into a labor of love for so many talented people. I am thrilled for us all to be bringing this strange world to life.”

PIG is such an amazing film that is a mixture of humanity, an unlikely friendship, food, and a pig. Cage and Wolff give us a mystery to be sure but as each of their story’s are told and we see Rob re-engage in the world (well, in the best way he emotionally knows how). His motivation comes in the form of a lovely pig who clearly enjoys his human’s company. Of course, those who know Rob is in the forest misunderstand their relationship.

Once Pig is taken, Rob snaps out of the forest haze and will do anything to track him down. That includes going places from his past and seeing people who are shocked to see him in one way or another. Mixed into the story are truffles and what is means to chefs looking to create something “exiting” in their industry which does not escape Rob in the slightest.

I can not say enough about Cage’s performance except he carries the story on Rob’s shoulders with the weight of an invisible anchor. As a die-hard Cage fan (and I love the film KNOWING so take THAT!), it is interesting to see the directions he takes in every movie he chooses. Fascinating and sometimes happily unexpected for me. Wolff gives his character attitude, but it is based on something much deeper, and this young actor expresses it so very well. Performing alongside Cage, this actor held his own and it was enjoyable from start to finish.

PIG is a film that is mean to be enjoyed with a beautifully plated serving of love and a glass full of aerated soul.

In the end – we do not get a lot of things to truly care about!

 

 

Disney+ and Pixar Brings Us the Charming LUCA

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently streaming on Disney+ from writer/director Enrico Casarosa, Simon Stephenson, Jesse Andrews and Mike Jones comes the story of an unusual young boy named LUCA.

Luca Paguro (Jacob Tremblay) is a young man living with father Lorenzo (Jim Gaffigan), mother Daniela (Maya Rudolph) and grandma Paguro (Sandy Martin). Let us be clear, they actually live under the sea! Luca and his family are sea monsters living int the waters off the Italian Riviera.

The young sea monster looks up daily and wonders what is on the surface but has been raised to be afraid of humans. One day, while discovering more unusual objects on the sea floor, Luca meets Alberto Scorfano (Jack Dylan Grazer) who just happens to also be a sea monster. He also shares with Luca a secret that changes his life.

On dry land, Luca and Alberto become amazing friends with a goal, to get on a Vespa and see the world. When his parents discover what their son has been up to, they make arrangements for him to go stay the summer with an uncle and that makes Luca even more determined to find his own two feet.

Deciding they need to win the Portorosso race to buy their own Vespa, they meet Giulia (Emma Berman) who agrees to train the boys and discovers they need a lot of help. Massimo (Marco Barricelli) is the town bully that tries to stand in the way of three friends reaching their dreams. In a matter of seconds, a friendship is tested, and secrets do not stay secrets for long.

It is a whirlwind above and below the sea!

Tremblay as Luca is a young boy who is finally discovering that the world is a much larger place than he could ever have imagined. He is so charming, endearing and full of wonderment. It is characters like Luca that make sitting together as a family and watching a story unfold so enjoyable. Tremblay vocals bring delight from start to finish.

Grazer as Alberto is a character filled with fun and a bit of mischief that Luca finds so enjoyable. Having a friend who wants the same things he does; Alberto is even more determined to expand his travels. Berman as Giulia is a young girl who has been part of the Portorosso race before but sees more of a chance to win with her new friends Luca and Alberto. She also opens up an educational world to Luca that she loves sharing with him.

Rudolph as mom Daniela is not going to let her son become part of the dry land world. Rudolph gives us the worried mother with a sense of humor mixed in. Gaffigan as dad Lorenzo is so funny in the way he is perfectly imperfect as a dad who pays attention in short spurts and is silly.

Barricelli as Massimo is the town bully that will stop anything or anyone from getting in the way of his winning a race or taking away his thunder.

Other cast include Saverio Raimondo as Ercole Visconti, Peter Sohn as Ciccio, Lorenzo Crisci as Guido, Marina Massironi as Signora Marsignliese, Gino La Monica as Tommaso, Giacomo Gianniotti as Giacomo, Elisa Gabrielli as Concetta Aragosta and Mimi Maynard as Pinuccia Aragosta.

Disney+ is the subscription home streaming entertainment with Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, National Geographic and more. There are exclusive originals with new feature films, shows, short form content, documentaries, and actions series such as THE MANDALORIAN. For more information, please visit www.disneyplus.com.

Pixar is responsible for some of the most amazing, animated stories and films from the TOY STORY franchise, FINDING DORY, THE INCREDIBLES, MONSTERS INC., CARS, BRAVE and this year’s newest film SOUL. For more information, please visit www.pixar.com.

Once again, the combination of Disney and Pixar have taken a story that is heartwarming, funny and full of life lessons and given it something even more special – heart. The animation is spectacular and colorful which is a like another character that adds such richness to every frame.

The wonderful Italian songs, the celebration of Italian food and a wonderful sense of the Italian community is so lovely to see. By the end of the film there is an understanding by all once they push past the fear mongering and it is a lesson for us all.

There is an amazing friendship between Luca, Alberto and Guila that is filled with everything we would want for these three. Being brought together once they cemented their friendship – each of them would do anything for the other. Make sure you keep the tissue handy as with all Disney and Pixar films, a tear might happen to find its way out.

In the end – above or below it is all about friendship, understanding and love!

 

Sony and Netflix Bring us the Story of Friendship with WISH DRAGON

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on Netflix from Sony Pictures Animation, writer/director Chris Appelhans and Jackie Chan comes the heartwarming story of friendship and understanding with WISH DRAGON.

Din (voiced by Jimmy Wong) and Lina (Natasha Liu Bordizzo) discover in elementary school that they have so much in common. From their love of mischief comes a friendship so deep that when Lina moves away with her father, it is a sad day for Din. As the city grows around him, Din still finds a bit of trouble missing school and keeping up with his delivery job.

Making a delivery, he is given a teapot for no reason at all but is told all the answers he needs is with the teapot. There is someone who is equally interested in the teapot and that’s the slightly villainous looking Mr. Wong (Will Yun Lee) who will stop at nothing to get his hands on it.  

After a chastising from Mom (Constance Wu) about his schoolwork, Din is more interested in who he is excited to see. The teapot has other plans when it opens up and he meets Long (John Cho), a dragon who let him know that he gets three wishes. After trying to get to know one another, Din lets Long the Dragon know he wants to see his friend Lina again.

That can be kind of difficult as Lina is now living a big life. Din crashes her birthday party only to discover that the change from childhood to adulthood can be painful. Trying to explain things to Long is difficult but the very colorful dragon has another take on how humans behave and there is a very good reason for it. It is time for each of their stories to be told and friendship to find them once again and not just the two-legged friendships!

All that glitters is not gold.

Wong as Din is a young man who has hung onto his childhood memory and the belief that one day he will see Nina again. When Long enters his life, things become more complicated than Din could ever have imagined. Wong gives his character a wonderful sense of life, love, friendship, loyalty and a bit of comedy thanks to his dragon friend.

Bordizzo as Nina is as mischievous as Din when they are children. As the years go by, Nina’s father is part of the business world, and it affects her life in ways she could not have imagined. Bordizzo gives her character such a lovely and fun aspect but also a sense of responsibility that keeps her away from the people she truly wants to be with.

Wu as Mom only wants the best for her son and works hard to make sure he is taken care of. There is a sense of community and family that are there with her and it is something that Nina gets to experience.

Other cast include Bobby Lee as Tall Goon, Jimmy O. Yang as Small Goon, Ian Chem as Young Din, Alyssa Abiera as Young Lina, and Gabriel Lee as Wen.

Sony Pictures Animation produces a variety of animated entertainment for audiences around the world. The visually groundbreaking and critically acclaimed SPIDER-MAN: Into the Spider-Verse is the studio’s latest release, and the winner of the 2019 Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. Other amazing films include THE SMURFS, CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS and HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA. For more of what they have to offer please visit www.sonypicturesanimation.com.

WISH DRAGON is a colorful, beautiful, loving story of friendships and loyalty surrounded by community. It is also the story of Din and Lina and, with a little push of faith, remembering what is important in life once you tear down the materialistic things that become traps.

There is also the story of Long and his journey of being a dragon which is equally important. Watching Long experience the modern world is entertaining to be sure, but it is also rediscovering his connection with people that is sweet, caring and sometimes very funny.

The animation is stunning and brilliant which lends to the enjoyment of the film in so many ways. So, gather the family and prepare to make a few wishes of your own when the WISH DRAGON comes into your home for a visit.

In the end – three magical wishes and one life changing adventure!

 

 

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!

On Brilliant Bluray is NEWS OF THE WORLD

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to 4K, Bluray and DVD and currently on Digital from director Paul Greengrass and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment is the journey that is filled with NEWS OF THE WORLD.

It is 1870’s Texas as Confederate Army 3^rd Texas Infantry Captain Jefferson Kidd (Tom Hanks) has a new career going from town-to-town reading newspapers for townsfolk who donate ten cents. He is well received as the news of the world brings so much to those who live in relative seclusion.

After one such reading, Captain Kidd is on the road again and comes upon an overturned wagon. In the tree is a man hanging and in the bushes he finds a very defiant young girl. Finding papers that identify her as Johanna (Helena Zengel), it is twist that this young blonde-haired blue-eyed girl is wearing the clothing of the indigenous people and has lost her family.

Told to take her to the Bureau of Indian Affairs, they let the Captain know that no one can care for her for months. He decides that it is his responsibility to make sure that Johanna is taken to next of kin. There are those who see it another way and want Johanna for themselves. That is their first encounter with problems and Johanna begins to understand that the Captain is protecting her.

Their journey is arduous, perilous and yet Captain Kidd and Johanna begin to understand one another and with each new day they help one another survive human and mother nature. A bond forms that is difficult to break once Johanna meets her next of kin. She is a child of two worlds, and he must decide which will bring her joy.

Hanks as Captain Kidd has once again turned in a touching performance that does not allow for a moments peace without heart string pulling. As this character he has a past of war pain and what was waiting for him when he returned. Trying to stay away from it all, he keeps busy on the road making others informed and even happy with the stories he reads. I would expect nothing less from Hanks than the performance he gives us as Captain Kidd. He is intelligent, crafty and has the heart to protect someone he does not even know. Just a beautiful character brought to life by Hanks.

Zengel as Johanna, in this performance, has already shown the wide range needed for such a young actress. She gives her character heart, fierceness and shares the same ability to think quickly through a problem for answers that save them both. What most would see as defiant, I see as a young girl trying to understand where she fits in because she truly is a child of two worlds. Zengel is a talent to be watched and appreciated in the years to come.

Other cast include: Michael Covino as J.G. Almay, Fred Hechinger as John Calley, Neil Sandilands as Wilhelm Leonberger, Thomas Francis Murphy as Merritt Farley, Ray McKinnon as Simon Boudlin, Mare Winningham as Doris Boudlin, Elizabeth Marvel as Ella Gannett, Chukwudi Iwuji as Charles Edgefield and Bill Camp as Willie Branholme.

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.

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 on 4K, Bluray, DVD and Digital include Deleted Scenes, Partners: Tom Hanks & Helena Zengel, Western Action, Paul Greengrass Makes NEWS OF THE WORLD, The Kiowa and Feature Commentary with Co-Writer/Director Paul Greengrass.

NEWS OF THE WORLD is a roller coaster of emotions but focused on one thing – Captain Kidd protecting the young Johanna. As each event happens, his protection becomes stronger not realizing they share so much in common. Both have to come to terms with a past that is painful before they can each look toward a future they could never possible have imagined. Zengel and Hanks work together, and it looks flawless and seamless.

The cinematography is vast and impressive, and the costuming has once again added such a richness to the story being told. Writers Greengrass and Luke Davies took their time in telling the tale through writing and Greengrass allowed this story to unfold in its own time and in its own way. That is amazing directing and powerful.

In the end – find where you belong!

 

Senior Year is More Than a Bit SPONTANEOUS

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming from writer/director Brian Duffield and Paramount Pictures is the story of the last year of high school, friendship, love and a weirdly a bit SPONTANEOUS.

The senior year is finally hear for Mara Carlyle (Katherine Langford) and bestie Tess (Hayley Law). Classes are in full swing and lessons are getting under way when suddenly - a classmate - well, literally explodes. The, um, leftovers have covered the room and the kids are sent screaming into the halls.

Trying to understand what has happened, each of the students is questioned and then released. Mara goes home and does what any good teenager would do - get on with life. Returning back to school and party life isn't going exactly as planned either as more kids are popping.

FBI Agent Rosetti (Yvonne Orji) talks with the kids to see if they know anything and seems to take a liking to Mara. In the meantime, Dylan (Charlie Plummer) decides to finally come clean about his long-time feelings for Mara. They have the same humor and fun side but also realize that "popping" adds a whole new level to their relationship.

Ending up in quarantine, the group tries to pass the time the best way they can as their families wait outside for news of a cure for their kids. Will they find a cure? Will love endure? Will life return to normal?

Do not pop until you find out!

Langford as Mara is witty, has great comedic timing and has the last laugh in a dig at Trump (of course I laughed myself silly). Filled with smarts and movie one liners, Langford gives her character everything crazy about being a teenager that is unsure of the future but with one more unexpected twist.

Plummer is having one heck of a year with SPONTANEOUS and the film WORDS ON BATHROOM WALLS. In both films he plays a very witty, intelligent and kindhearted teen but one is afraid of popping and the other has health issues but both are in love and that makes all the difference. There is a calming in Plummer's character choices and that says something about the roles we will see in the future. I would hate (and love) to see what he can do with a character that isn't so charming.

McNulty as Tess is the perfect yin to Mara's yang because when Mara needs it most, it is Tess that says exactly what needs to be said in exactly the way Tess dishes it out. Orji as Agent Rosetti wants to help but having kids explode for no reason does not exactly leave much room for finding evidence.

Other cast include Piper Perabo as Angela, Chelah Horsdal as Denise, Rob Huebel as Charlie, Kaitlyn Bernard as Sky, Laine MacNeil as Jenna, Doralynn Mui as Cranberry, and Mellany Barros as Katelyn.

Paramount Pictures is the longest operating and remaining major studio in Hollywood that has been on the ground floor of every major development in film. From the advent of motion pictures, to the emergence of television, through the digital revolution, Paramount Pictures has been there. During our 100-year history, we have served as the production site for thousands of notable movies and television shows. For more please visit www.paramountstudios.com.

SPONTANEOUS is a dark, light, funny, guilty laughing film about the problems of being a teen with the added fear of popping. There is humor that is quick and, in some cases, a double smack of quickness that stays one step ahead of the unfortunate events.

This takes teen angst movies to the next level and I had such fun watching it. The film never lets you settle on one emotion before it jerks you into the next which can be a tad unsettling but in a really good and original way.

In the midst of the world’s craziness right now, SPONTANEOUS gives us a reason to laugh, remember and accept that in a world where you think you've seen it all - you haven't.

In the end - who knew senior year could be so…well, spontaneous!

SEA LEVEL Brings Double Underwater Adventure

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to DVD from director Aun Hoe Goh, Grindstone and Lionsgate is the double feature adventures below SEA LEVEL and SEA LEVEL 2: Magic Arch.

SEA LEVEL tells the story of under the sea, Pup is a bamboo shark who finds eggs on the ocean floor. When he discovers that humans are taking the eggs from the reef, he wants to find a way to save them. His best friend Julius the shark is worried that he might do something outrageous but there are even more problems happening below the reef.

Trying to keep a secret from Pup is Myrtle the Turtle who only wants to stop him from making a decision that could hurt him. Octo is the inventing octopus that knows Pups secret and swears to Myrtle that he is not going to tell even if he is a little hesitant and grumpy about it.

Still, Pup learns that he can breathe on land! Deciding to go onto land and find the others, Julius wants to go after Pup and bring him home. Turning back to Octo, there is a contraption that can help Julius do just that.

Pup takes the bold step and walks across the land searching and finds exactly who he is looking for. What he does not know is that Julius is in a contraption that lets him walk on land, but the land-dwelling animals have another plan.

When Pup explains what happened, his new land-dwelling friends want to make everything right. Hopefully they can do that before the ones from the deep led by and evil eel, try to take over below and ruin the reef home. Pup and Julius fight the two-legged problems while Octo and Myrtle fight the eight-legged problems.

Its time ocean life and land animals come together to make everything right again!

SEA LEVEL 2: Magic Arch, there is a young inventor dolphin named Delphi. He visits with Uncle Ray who makes the comment on that hurts his feelings about his ideas. Alpha the Dolphin gets a lot of attention that irritates him, but he only has eyes for the lovely dolphin Mia. Alpha eggs Delphi on about a secret punch but everyone loses interest.

Octavian is the mayor of the town and rules everything and wants Fishtown to get a new leader, meaning him. The angler fish have come to call out the mayor on how his promises have been broken and there is disorder all around.

Delphi also tries to deal with his father being gone so long. Deep under the water something has happened, the evil eels are back, and no one trust them. Even stranger is as Delphi finds an under the ocean city and goes through a magic arch, he comes out the other side as a turtle. They discover that whatever they say before going in, they come out as that on the other side.

Wanting to tell Octavian what they found, Delphi believes it will help Fishtown be more protected. When Alpha makes fun of him, Delphi decides that he is going to use the magic arch to show everyone. The eels have changed as well and plan to conqueror Fishtown with their huge size change. When Delphi tries to explain to Octavian about it all, he does not believe.

Mia goes after Delphi and sees the beauty of the underwater city and finds the magic arch that Delphi talked about. The problem is the eels are after Mia as he tries to rescue her and the chase is on!  That is when Delphi discovers what really happened to his father and it has to do with another arch and time travel!

Someone has to stop the eels before they all change, find Mia and get Delphi's dad home and we know who that is!

Lionsgate is a global leader in motion picture production and distribution for theatres, television, home entertainment and more. Theatre franchises include THE HUNGER GAMES, and DIVERGENT along with JOHN WICK. Now, adding this film to its 16,000-motion picture and television titles you can see everything coming soon as well as available now at http://www.lionsgate.com.

SEA LEVEL and SEA LEVEL 2: Magic Arch are beautiful family fun films that tell the story of life under the sea. The first film brings all the animals together against a couple of humans who need a good fin slap while the second film deals with time travel and bringing safety to Fishtown.

The animation is beautifully done and so very colorful! The characters are adorable and full of fun which is important for the whole family to enjoy. Each film has a unique story to tell but the underlying theme is friendship, family, community and doing what is right for all. These are wonderful themes to have swimming through both films.

It is wonderful to have both films on one DVD as well so that one film flows into the other and families can stay under the sea for as long as possible. There is so much fun and humor in both of these films so plan on giggling plenty. There is not anything like swimming with friends who only want the best for you and are pretty cool to be around as well.

In the end - dive twice as deep into these funny fish features!

There is a World Within SUMMERLAND

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to selected theatres, VOD and Digital from writer/director Jessica Swale and IFC Films comes the story of reality and the line between to SUMMERLAND.

Alice (Gemma Arterton) is living in a house away from the town of Kent during World War II. Having the reputation as a grouchy recluse, she is constantly harassed by the local children and avoided by the local adults.

Her days are finger locked onto the keyboard of a typewriter discovering the mysteries and mythology of a place called Summerland. That is, until a knock on the door. The townspeople have all opened their homes to the children of the war and Alice is no different. Standing in front of her is Frank (Lucas Bond), a young boy from London whose father is a pilot and mother works for the government.

Alice is not thrilled by any stretch and makes it clear to Mr. Sullivan (Tom Courtenay) that he must find another place for Frank. Told it will take a week, a relationship slowly begins between Alice and Frank as, through her grumpiness, she shares her research. Much to her surprise, Frank is excited to know more.

This all brings Alice to think about a person from her past, Vera (Gugu Mbatha-Raw) who showed the writer more about life that she could have imagined. Frank has made friends with Edie (Dixie Egerickx) and everyone is finding their happiness.

Unless the sadness of war causes Frank to run towards sadness, Alice to follow and secrets to all be revealed.

Arterton as Alice is absolutely marvelous. She is a character that has sealed herself off from the world, doesn't hold back her opinion on anything and has the town making sure to give Alice a wide birth. Watching her form an attachment to Frank is rough but slowly becomes a realization that her solitude has kept her from a true and fulfilled life. I just adored the pace of Alice and Arterton made that an amazing journey.

Bond as Frank is a young boy who knows he must be away from his parents. Unmoved by Alice's attitude, he finds friendship with classmate Edie and explores his Kent surroundings. He is inquisitive, funny and sees so much good in the world. Bond's performance is charming and opposite Arterton, steals the film.

Mbatha-Raw as Vera has a dream of her own and it becomes a wedge between she and Alice. Their friendship leaves a deep mark in them both and follows Alice until meeting Frank. Mbatha-Raw is lovely from beginning to end. Egerickx as Edie is a mini-Alice and Frank is okay with that part of their friendship as well. This young actress gave her character such depth and is as equally as guarded.

Courtenay as Mr. Sullivan is witty, charming and a man who clearly tries to understand Alice. His character is not judgmental and has such a way with everyone around him. His roles of late have been so endearing and a bit comical with wit and I am just thrilled he is on the screen.

Other cast include Amanda Root as Mrs. Lawrence, Jessica Gunning as Mrs. Bassett, David Horovitch as Albert, and Aoibhine McFlynn as Cass.

IFC Films is a leading distributor of quality talent-driven independent films. Some of the company’s successes include BOYHOOD, FRANCES HA, MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING, Y TU MAMA TAMBIEN, TOUCHING THE VOID, CHE, TINY FURNITURE and CARLOS. For more information on films from IFC please visit www.ifcfilms.com.

SUMMERLAND is a beautiful film about friendship, longing, war, loyalty, curiosity, mythology and the need for something tangible to explain the mysteries of life. I thoroughly enjoyed this film on so many levels that target those things that make us such complex and emotional carbon-based units.

The cast brings performances that bring tears, giggles and the realization that both Alice and Frank may be onto something regarding the quest we all have for Summerland. It is a lovely thought and even when the phenomenon is explained, it does not take away from the dream of such a place because, after all, that's what we are - dreamers.

SUMMERLAND deserves all the recognition it can get for story, direction, cinematography as well as cast and crew for bringing this film to us. In a time of such harshness and grief, SUMMERLAND offers a respite in the midst of its own harshness and grief with charm, grace and, more importantly, love.

In the end - it is all with love, magic and hope!