She Sees the WHITEBIRD

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Marc Forster based on the book White Bird: A Wonder Story by R.J. Palacio and Lionsgate is the remarkable story with the help of WHITE BIRD.

Sara (Helen Mirren) is visiting her grandson Julian (Bryce Gheisar) to discover he is in trouble at school. She is an artist in town for a Retrospective about her work but feels it is time to talk to her grandson about something important in her life in order to help him.

It is 1942 and Sara (Ariella Glaser) lives in a quaint town in France with her father Max (Ishai Golan) and mother Rose (Olivia Ross). Attending school with her friends, life seems idyllic and happy for the young girl. Also in school is the young boy Julian (Orlando Schwerdt) who has a disability and longs to be friends with Sara. Both of their worlds are about to change when the Nazi’s arrive in their village. As the Jewish children try to escape, they are rounded up quickly, all except Sara.

Trying to evade the soldiers, she is found by Julian who leads her through tunnels under the school and to a barn near his home. Helping her settle in he warns her to stay out of sight so that others do not know she is there. Worried about her parents, Sara keeps quiet and tries to pass the days hoping it will all be over quickly. To help her think of something else, Julian visits her every evening to keep her up with school work and play games.

But the Nazi’s are relentless and Sara realizes that she must stay hidden for a long time. That doesn’t stop the two from creating their own world where life is good and wonderful. Even Julian’s parents Jean Paul (Jo Stone-Fewings) and Vivienne (Gillian Anderson) make her life inside the barn something to remember fondly. Outside the barn is a totally different world as Julian deals with his own difficulties. Sara discovers the results of war and what comes after.

Glaser as Sara is a young girl who is about to have a life changing experience. When it happens, everything she has known is gone and the future is uncertain. Glaser portrays Sara seamlessly and with an insight of emotion that could be hard for a young actress dealing with this period of time. Instead, she gives such a range of mixed emotion of fear and love.

Schwerdt as Julian is absolutely stunning as a young man always feeling on the outside of things. Helping Sara is not something he needed to think twice about and while she is trapped on the inside, he is trapped on the outside with those who want to hurt him. Schwedt is lovely, beautiful and gives his character all of that as well.

Anderson as Vivienne and Julians mother comes to love Sara. She spends all the time she can in the barn with Sara helping to be the mother she is away from. Vivienne is just as protective of Sara as she is her own son. Anderson gives her character everything we’d hope a mother would and then some. Stone-Fewings as Jean Paul keeps up the home front and is aware of his surroundings and what can happen if anyone knows the family secret.

Shout out to Mirren as Grandmother Sara is splendid as the story unfolds. She has always been a formidable actress and, in this film, she proves that even a smaller role can have a big impact. Gheisar as teen Julian

Other cast include Stuart McQuarrie as Pastor Luc, Jem Matthews as Vincent and Patsy Ferran as Mille Petitjean, Priya Ghotane as Rahmiya, Teagan Booth as Dillon, Laura Hudeckova as young Sara, Mia Kadlecova as Sophie, Selma Kaymakci as Mariann, Jordan Cramond as Jerome, Yelisey Kazakevich as Henri and Vladimir Javorsky as George.

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.

WHITE BIRD is a stunning film about love, loyalty and the will to fight against evil. The cast is so amazing taking on the roles of those who do the right thing against the wrong. The story is so filled with every emotion imaginable because, especially in this time, there is so much hate against people when there is no reason for it.

Sara and Julian are put in positions where they not only have to see the world as it has become for them, but also to create a world where they can find respite from the horrors happening in their town to family and friends. The story offers both worlds with so much emotion and reaction that it is very hard not to become emotionally invested just watching it all. Inside the barn, director Forster brings both worlds into Sara and Julian’s lives and we, as outsiders, are privy to see it all.

This is a beautiful film for all to see and embrace the lesson that Mirren’s character tries to imbue to us all and that is not to let history repeat itself.

In the end – kindness lives forever!

 

They are Running from 9 BULLETS

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres and On Demand from writer/director Gigi Gaston and Screen Media is the thriller chase when you are running from 9 BULLETS.

Gypsy (Lena Heady) is a dancer that is about to make a grand change in her life. Receiving word that a book she is writing is near going to press, she quits her job to finish it. In the trailer park where she lives is the young boy Sam (Dean Vasquez) who lives with his family. At home alone, he receives a panicked telephone call from his father telling him to pack a secret laptop and go to a hiding place they had pre-planned.

Grabbing his dog Moses, Sam heads out into the dark. Gypsy is on her way home from her final day at work when she also gets a panicked call begging her to call Jack (Sam Worthington) to make him understand. Gypsy seems to know exactly what the caller is referring to and promises to do what she can – that is until the call is cut short.

On the road, young Sam witnesses a heinous event and runs! When Gypsy gets home, she realizes there is someone in the house and finds the young boy cowering in her shower. Now she is the one panicking and packs what she can, puts the boy in the truck and runs. Gypsy knows that Jack will be sending his henchmen to take the boy.

While running, Sam tries to be friendly with Gypsy, but she is not warming up to the idea of dealing with the kid. Feeling the only recourse is to talk to Jack, she grabs Moses and spends the night with Jack to convince him to stop whatever he has planned. The problem is, Jack is not happy about the money he has lost, and revenge is how he deals with it.

Along the way, Gypsy plans to drop Sam off with someone who can take care of him. Yet, the two begin to understand one another in between chases and bullets until finally, both can take no more and do whatever is necessary to either make it right or make them rich.

Heady as Gypsy is a hardened woman for reasons of her own. Taking on a young boy who is dealing with so much puts her on guard even more. Wanting to get him to a safe place is her main goal so she can find the new life she has been working on. Heady is tough even when tears fall but when her character realizes that pain is pain no matter what age, a softer version of a tough woman comes out.

Vasquez as Sam is the young boy who has seen the worse that humanity has to offer in the way of viciousness. Along with dog Moses, Sam tries to find a bond with Gypsy and is constantly brought down which is not easy for a kid. Yet, when they are up against the odds, Sam finds Gypsy’s strength and makes it his own. Well done young man.

Worthington as Jack is a vicious man who tries charm and if that does not work, he turns to what he is good at, giving orders for horrible things to happen. He wants the money stolen from him and, as a bonus, he wants to prove that he will take out anyone who gets in his way whether they had anything to do with it or not.

Other cast include Martin Sensmeier as Eddie, Chris Mullinax as Mike, Lala Anthony as Tasmin, Emma Holzer as Lisa, Donna Hood as Cupid, Anthony Fitzgerald as Mel, Zachary Mooren as Ralph, Stephanie Arcila as Caroline, Marlene Forte as Grandmother, John Ales as Rabbi Stein, Colleen Camp as Drew, Cam Gigandet as Tommy and Barbara Hershey as Lacey.

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.

9 BULLETS gives the reminiscent feel of the 1980 film GLORIA with Gena Rowlands. Even Sam looks like the young boy Phil from the movie as well, except Phil has quite an outlook on his life and was not afraid to be mouthy about it. The premise is about the same but that does not take away from the film in its enjoyment.

Heady and Vasquez are a pair together both discovering the one thing they share is that they need to start a new life away from the horror of their old life. Worthington oozes bad guy from beginning to, well, end if there is one with the door left open as to what happens.

Jump in the car and go for a wild ride because, as Sam says, it will take more than bullets to stop them both.

In the end – they are each running from their own story!

 

 

 

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!

THE SECRET: Dare to Dream

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Premium Video on Demand and director Andy Tennant and Lionsgate comes a story of family and unexpected connections with THE SECRET: Dare to Dream.

Miranda (Katie Holmes) is a widower with three children, teen daughter Missy (Sarah Hoffmeister), son Greg (Aidan Brennan) and youngest Bess (Chloe Lee). Doing everything for herself has not been easy but mother-in-law Bobby (Celia Weston) is always there with her two cents.

Dating local business owner Tucker (Jerry O'Connell) keeps the finances coming in as well as a storm that threats the town. Miranda has reason to worry as her house is in need of repairs, but she gets the kids to help hunker down for the storm. Greg does not tell his mother that there was a mysterious visitor earlier, Bray (Josh Lucas) who had an envelope for his mother.

Picking up her two daughters from school, a short argument with Missy is interrupted when Miranda smacks into the back of a truck. Immediately Bray offers to help fix the bumper and she reluctantly agrees. Imagine Bray's surprise when they return to the very spot he was just at - Miranda's home.

Fixing the bumper and an unexpected dinner, Bray has a chance to spend a little time with the family. As the storm really comes in, he leaves thanking them all. On his drive out he puts the envelope in the mailbox returning to his hotel room.

After a frightful night, Bray returns to discover all is not as it should be at the Wells home and again offers Miranda help in getting things right again. She cannot understand how a total stranger can be so kind in a world she is struggling with. Catching attention, Tucker wonders what Bray is up to as well.

As the days go by, there are revelations as to the mysterious Bray, Tuckers idea of a family and Bobby having more than two cents about it all but its Miranda that must decide what is right for all.

Holmes as Miranda plays a woman swallowed up with children, a home falling apart, not enough money to get by and trying not to get caught up in the memories of her husband. She has learned to trust no one and is not very good at accepting compliments or help. Holmes gives it the old college try and is sweet if undecisive.

O'Connell as Tucker is a businessman who happens to see a future with Miranda. He is a little uncomfortable when Bray arrives but then again - where is your chainsaw dude? Weston as Bobby is as every mother-in-law can be, full of advice that is not always what Miranda wants to hear.

Kids Lee and Brennan are adorable, inquisitive and trying to understand their mother's frustration. Of course, being kids they just want their Mom happy but not quite old enough yet to understand how difficult that can be to do as an adult. Hoffmeister starts out as the stereotypical smart mouthed, disrespectful, whiny teen (which by the way is so played out that when I see it in a film I mute it) but by the end she mellows out a bit to become a regular whiny teen.

Lucas as Bray just takes my breath away, then again, he is such a calming force on the screen. Bringing his southern swag and deep well of convictions, he is not pushy but instead just tells the Wells family what he sees in life. Of course, he has a secret and that's where things get a little dicey. I still truly enjoyed seeing him in THE SECRET: Dare to Dream.

Other cast include: Katrina Begin as Jennifer, Sydney Tennant as Sloane, Samantha Beaulieu as Charmaine, Yohance Myles as Devon, Rosemberg Salgado as Manny and Cory Scott Allen as Matt Wells.

The film is based on the best-selling book THE SECRET by Rhonda Byrne. The book has sold over 30 million copies and translated into 50 language which believes in the law of attraction. It is the belief that one’s thought can change everything in a person's life.

THE SECRET: Dare to Dream is a charming film and one that families can watch together and even talk about after. There is truth in the belief that the negative power of thought can bring so much pain. I think most people would agree that there comes a time where you have to put out good vibes to get good vibes.

The film also gets into the pain a family goes through when losing a family member, for Miranda, for the kids and for Bobby. It seems they all are worried that they will forget Matt Wells and that being happy somehow would do a disservice to his memory.

It is Bray that shows them in a patient way that it is not a disservice to go but in fact a disservice not to go on. Sometimes it is hard for people to grasp that and it takes a good shaking to make that point. THE SECRET: Dare to Dream does that, it is a gentle shake to think about how short this life is and living in guilt is a waste of a gift.

In the end - your thoughts are your destiny!

ODDSOCKEATERS Explains it all on DVD

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to DVD from director Galina Miklinova and Omnibus Entertainment comes the answer to the question we’ve been asking for centuries with ODDSOCKEATERS.

Hugo is an Oddsockeater who is very close to his grandfather. He has learned to only take the odd sock when it is needed and no more. One day his grandfather tells him that he must go find his uncle because his time in the sock world is coming to and end. With a heavy heart Hugo leaves him home in search of his uncle.

Along the way he meets the Professor who totally believes in the existence of the Oddsockeaters and is trying to prove it. He also discovers The Blades who are a shady bunch of sock thieves who would like nothing more than to take over the odd sock world.

Hugo finds his uncle Big Boss also learns he has two cousins that are actually quite a handful. That’s when the adventure begins as the leader of The Blades will do anything to get every sock that the Big Boss has – even kidnapping Hugo!

These socks may be odd but they will stick together! 

The character of Hugo is so striking as is his ultraistic nature and love for his grandfather. Believing in the simplistic life and being a good Oddsockeater, he never takes more than is needed and wants what is best for the small family he lives in.

When his world is expanded and he realizes there are those who don’t share his beliefs, including his own family, he tries to listen to others and learn a little. When it comes to his new family, Hugo believes very much in the same values that he learned from his grandfather – that family is everything and loyalty cost nothing.

Omnibus Entertainment is the genre imprint for Film Movement, founded in 2002 as one of the first-ever subscription film services with its DVD-of-the-Month club. Now, Film Movement is a North American distributor of award-winning independent and foreign films based in New York City. It has released more than 250 feature films and shorts culled from prestigious film festivals worldwide. 

ODDSOCKEATERS is based on the international best selling books by Pavel Srut and has been given the Dove approval for the best in family entertainment.

The story of the ODDSOCKEATERS is absolutely stunning in its telling with animation that is colorful and memorable. There is so much to learn in the film but it doesn’t get mired down in so much heavy sentimentality that it forgets to be so much fun.

The characters each have such unique looks and, after a time, it is easy to forget that you are watching a story about socks! I would love to actually own stuffed dolls of Hugo and the gang just to keep the fun going.

Srut has taken the question of the ages and given it an absolutely wonderful explanation that people of all ages will not only remember, but share with families looking for a marvelous opportunity to spend time together.

If you have ever wondered where missing socks go then might I suggest you get comfy with the kids and a bowl of popcorn and treat yourself to the ODDSOCKEATERS on DVD. Enjoy it once, enjoy it twice – enjoy it always!

In the end – hold onto your socks!

ALPHA Brings Mans Best Friends Story to Bluray

Jeri Jacquin

Now on DVD and Bluray from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment and writer/director Albert Hughes comes the story of a young man and a wolf he calls ALPHA.

Keda (Kodi Smit-McPhee) is a young man finding his place in the Paleolithic tribe. Being the son of Tau (Johannes Johannesson) isn’t easy, especially when Keda must prove himself worthy to hunt as bison season approaches. Preparing, it is easy to see that Keda wants to be everything his father expects but has insecurities of his own.

Out in the wilderness the group catches a boar and Tau expects Keda to prove his worth by killing the creature. Later that night, in the blink of an eye they lose a member of their group but there is no time to mourn. A heard of bison is close and they need everyone to do their part to corral the stampede in one direction. As one breaks away, the bison has his eye on Keda.

Rushing the boy it only takes a moment before Tau sees his son go over the edge of a cliff. Believing him lost, he must walk away for the sake of the others and return home. But Keda isn’t dead, in fact through a fluke of weather he manages to make it back to the top where the group was last seen. There he discovers a cairn left by the tribe and knows he is on his own.

With an injured foot, he is suddenly chased by wolves sending him up a tree but not before he wounds one of them. Staying up high, Keda wakes the next day to see the pack gone but not the wounded wolf. Knowing he can not kill the animal, he decides to help him get better.

Finding them a place to be safe, both young man and wolf take the time to heal from their wounds and get to know one another. Trust isn’t that easy to come by but they both have time. Keda calls the animal Alpha and preparing for his journey home is surprised to see the wolf following him.

Their friendship blooms as they face more animals and a bitter tundra that isn’t about to show either man nor beast any mercy. They lean on one another with each step taken but both realize they are becoming weaker with the village no where in site.

Smit-McPhee as Keda basically carries this film through some of the worst weather imaginable. From the beginning it is clear that the character Keda isn’t exactly the hunter his father would like but his own mother knows that Keda does everything with a big heart. Even when confronted with the boar kill, it is all over the young man’s face that he can’t find it in him to do it. Smit-McPhee has that unique ability to give us all of that emotion with very little dialogue. The relationship with Alpha is a joy to watch.

Johannesson as Tau has a duty to the village to feed them all through the winter and the bison hunt is a chance to show what his son can do. Unfortunately, Tau is keenly aware that his son has a heart but is hoping that won’t stop him from being part of the tribe’s hierarchy. It is heartbreaking to watch this actor grieve because he is totally believable in a father’s ache for the loss of his son.

Other cast includes Marcin Kowalczyk as Sigma, Jense Hulten as Xi, Natassia Malthe as Rho, Spencer Bogaert as Kappa, Mercedes de la Zerda as Nu, Lenor Varela as the Shaman Woman and narrated by Morgan Freeman.

Sony Pictures 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.

The Bluray and Digital Bonus Materials Include: Director’s Cut, Alternate Opening and Ending with Commentaries by Director Albert Hughes, Deleted Scenes with Commentaries by Director Albert Hughes: Starscape, Fighting For Survival and Dream Sequence. Also, Four Featurettes: The Wolf Behind Alpha, Boy & Wolf and Building the World. Finally, A Hero’s Journey is also included. The DVD includes Two Featurettes: The Wolf Behind Alpha and Boy & Wolf.

ALPHA is the film for those who love to see the relationship between the young man Keda and the first friendship that comes from Alpha. The wolf has a personality all its own and made me giggle quite a few times. Besides being stunningly beautiful, Alpha’s facial features were strong and lovely at the same time.

The cinematography is stunning with its wide open spaces and harshness that is believable for the times. There are moments of beauty and then frightening moments where every step can either bring them closer to their destination or farther away.

Director Albert Hughes is also responsible for such films as DEAD PRESIDENTS, THE BOOK OF ELI and now ALPHA. Receiving numerous nominations and a win for Best Director from the Black Reel Awards for THE BOOK OF ELI, Hughes is currently in pre-production for the film THE FURY OF A PATIENT MAN.

ALPHA is a film I enjoyed from start to finish with its lovely story of a young big hearted boy who would find the best friend he would ever know. It’s a story of trust, loyalty, friendship and survival all wrapped up a beautifully shot film.

In the end – mankind discovers man’s best friend!

WHEN CALLS THE HEART: Year Five Brings their Movies to DVD with a Blessed Bonus

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to DVD from Shout! Factory and “Hearties” everywhere is an amazing set of films that touch us all with life, love and always knowing WHEN CALLS THE HEART: Year Five.

The Heart of Homecoming shows the people of Hope Valley at their very caring best as Christmas comes to town. Wanting to make sure everyone’s holidays are special and bright, the town gets ready for a Christmas parade. Elizabeth (Erin Krakow) is volunteering to take her mind off of missing Jack (Daniel Lissing) who is still on Mountie assignment.

Hearts and Minds has Elizabeth’s sister coming to Hope Valley. Julie (Charlotte Hegele) has decided that perhaps she would follow Elizabeth into teaching and shadow’s her sister at the school house. Abigail (Lori Loughlin) believes that the railroad can be a good thing for Hope Valley but she needs the towns help. Bill (Jack Wagner) must leave on official business and with Jack gone the only other person he trusts to be the law in the town is Lee (Kavan Smith) who also gets a taste of being town sheriff.

Home is Where the Heart is finally has Jack returning home to a very happy Elizabeth. It also means that she can begin to plan their wedding and Abigail is excited to help. One of Elizabeth’s students, Hattie, is chosen to start a school newspaper. Trying to find stories to tell is more difficult that the young girl imagined but it doesn’t stop her from telling a story she didn’t check facts on first.

My Heart is Yours is the day all the ‘Hearties’ have been waiting for. Jack and Elizabeth’s wedding day is close and the plans are moving forward. A telegram arrives for Jack sending him on a Mountie assignment but Bill won’t let anything get in the way of Jack’s big day. Instead, Bill rides out of town to do a prisoner transfer but things go awry putting his best man duties in jeopardy. Elizabeth has chosen students to be part of her wedding day and while rehearsing brings danger to the school. Abigail is thrilled that Pastor Frank (Mark Humphrey) has returned for the big day but they also need to decide how to go forward with their relationship.

Weather the Storm has Abigail continues to try and find investors to keep Hope Valley’s bank afloat. Elizabeth gets the idea and the towns help to have children follow one business in the town to learn how things work. The children are excited and chose only to discover that the adults are doing everything they can to make their town successful. AJ Foster (Josie Bissett) is back and Bill must deal with what happened a year ago between them.

Close to My Heart has Rosemary (Pascale Hutton) and her fluttery nature front and center. Lee’s former business partner who passed away brings his widow Eleanor to Hope Valley. Rosemary doesn’t understand all of her questions about business and success in their town. Eleanor finds Henry (Martin Cummins) and offers him a position wanting to open up a business. He is happy thinking he finally can get rid of the bad reputation he has with the townspeople. This is his chance but will he do the right thing? Finally, tragedy comes to Hope Valley and the entire town is in shock and devastated.

But life always shows us faith and hope!

Krakow as Elizabeth takes her character in a direction that is so lovely and difficult and heartbreaking for the viewer. A beloved person in Hope Valley, Elizabeth has cemented her place and when she deals with life-trials, it is those who have made her beloved that are there for her. Krakow has taken her character steps further each episode and season. That means those of us who love the show have grown right along with her and it has been an amazing journey.

Lissing as Thornton has done his role proud and with that said I’m saddened that he will no longer be Mountie Jack. That is a role that is strong, steadfast, endearing and what it means to be dedicated to one’s profession and the community where he lives. Those are characteristics some might say are lacking in our world today, yet Lissing has shown that although the series is set in another time, his actions are timeless. We will miss you Mountie Jack and we wish you well Daniel Lissing.

Loughlin as Abigail continues to be a pillar of the town taking on the role of mayor, mother to two orphaned children and run the town’s café. If that isn’t enough, she is trying to save the town’s bank by looking for investors. Loughlin is such a strong character in this series and yet hasn’t forgotten her humanity or what the word love truly means.

Wagner as Bill is the town law and has found his place in Hope Valley. He is equally dependable and has a grumpy kind of caring towards the people of the town. Wagner makes me laugh at times with how much he wants to pretend to be annoyed by something yet is the first to jump in when needed.

Hutton as Rosemary is continually delightful, thoughtful in her way, bold, flamboyant and oh so colorful. The way she thinks is a little self-serving at times but never in a hurtful or aggressive way. Instead she just wants everyone to be as happy as she is in life. Hutton is such a joy to watch as she keeps Rosemary moving forward with married life, friendship and town life.

Smith as Leland is as busy as ever with the lumber business while balancing married life. He has become such a strong part of the community and keeps the people of the town working. Smith brings charm, personality and humor to his marriage (which is cute beyond belief) and concern for the town he calls home and all his loved ones who live there.

Humphrey as Frank became important to Hope Valley but things change and Abigail knows it. This character has been embraced and emotionally necessary to balance everything that has happened to the people in town. Added to that is Greene as Carson, the town doctor, and they finally can be physically well.

Other cast include Paul Greene as Carson Shepherd, Andrea Brooks as Faith Carter, Eva Aren Bucholz as Jesse Flynn, Carter Evancic as Cody Hastings, Ava Cooper as Opal, and Max Lloyd-Jones as Tom Thornton

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.

The six-disc DVD includes all the movies seen during the 5^th season of WHEN THE HEART CALLS.

Inspired by the books of Janette Oke, The Hallmark Channel has been home to the series. WHEN THE HEART CALLS is brought by executive producer Michael Landon, Jr. A spin off of the series When Hope Calls is expected to begin airing in 2019 on the Hallmark Movies Now service.

Included with WHEN CALLS THE HEART: Year Five is an amazing and truly emotional book When God Calls the Heart: Devotions from Hope Valley by Brian Bird, Michelle Cox and a forward from creator Janette Oke. Each chapter brings remembrance of a story told by Elizabeth Thatcher and other characters leading to a scripture, a simple prayer and questions that we can all relate to answering.

WHEN CALLS THE HEART is a series that gracefully makes its way into ones heart, whether they are expecting it to happen or not. The characters created by Oke are strong, solid, endearing, tough, caring and filled with all the complexities that come along with being a human being. Yet in all of that, these characters never forget how to love, be compassionate and give to those who have less.

That is how we all truly want to see the world despite what we see on television or the news these days. Ann Frank said it best that, “I keep my ideals, because in spite of everything I still believe that people are really good at heart. How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world. Think of all the beauty still left around you and be happy.”

That is Hope Valley and the characters who live there – being good at heart even when there are moments that are questionable. Each of the townspeople has their story that we have all come to know and it’s not always good. Yet, at the heart of those not-so-good stories are the people who believe that everyone is good at heart – like Abigail feels towards Henry Gowen. 

Country life or city life – the key word is life and that’s what WHEN CALLS THE HEART brings viewers. It may be another era but the values and beliefs are universal and timeless. This is a series that the entire family can watch together and embrace and, let’s be honest, there are not too many shows that can fly that flag.

WHEN CALLS THE HEART: Year Five is the DVD that deserves a place next to all the series DVD’s in everyone’s home entertainment library. Hallmark Channel and Shout! Factory not only make it possible but a blessing.

In the end – it is a town filled with hope and heart!

It is a Life of Discover with LOVE, SIMON

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to 4K UHD, Bluray/DVD and Digital from director Greg Berlanti and Fox Home Entertainment is the journey he takes to LOVE, SIMON.

Simon (Nick Robinson) is a young man counting down the days until graduation and off to college. Supported by his Dad Jack (Josh Duhamel), Mom Emily (Jennifer Garner) and sister-chef Nora (Talitha Bateman), he actually likes his life.

Adding to that are his lifelong friends Leah (Katherine Langford), Nick (Jorge Lendeborg Jr.) and newer lifelong friend Abby (Alexandra Shipp), things are all good. Except one little-big thing – Simon hasn’t shared with anyone that he is gay except for one person, an online friend he calls Blue.

Blue has become an important part of Simon’s life because they seem to have the ability to share anything about themselves with no judgment or fear. Martin (Logan Miller) makes a move to upset the balance of Simon’s life. Discovering emails between he and Blue, Martin screenshots them to his phone and makes a deal with Simon.

Martin likes Abby and wants Simon to do the footwork to get them together in exchange for his silence. Immediately panicked for his friend Blue, Simon agrees. Putting the pieces into play makes him miserable knowing these are his friends’ lives.

Then moment of teenage outburst from Martin brings the house of fragile cards falling down. Simon is left to either hide from it all or just clear the path of least resistance to the life they are all meant to have – one that includes being who you really are.

He’s done keeping his story straight!

Robinson as Simon is as charming and sweet as he wants to be. Feeling the best he can under his secretive circumstances, this young actor gives a performance that is heartfelt, believable and endearing. That’s important when telling this story as the pitfalls in the life of a teenager are already demanding in this sometimes technological terror of a world we have created. Robinson’s performance unravels that with depth and I for one appreciate that.

Langford as Leah is also dealing with the perils of the heart and high school. She has known Simon practically forever (as they say) and wants only what is best for him, even if he screws up now and then. Shipp as Abby is the outgoing new girl of their group and the first to know Simon’s secret.

Miller as Martin is the guy who doesn’t really understand how friendships work but clearly knows how blackmail does! This character is the one who wants to just be part of something special but goes about it the wrong way. Lendeborg Jr. as Nick is dealing with trying to hook up a love life of his own and gets in the cross hairs of Simon’s inability to get away from Martin’s scheme.

Garner as Emily is the fun Mom who sees her son has something going on. Trying to do the ‘give him space’ thing, it all finally makes sense to her which doesn’t stop her from being just as supportive. Duhamel as Jack is the Dad who struggles with ‘not seeing it’ and failing as a father for it and embraces his son as he always has.

Shout out to Rothwell as Ms. Albright as the high school drama teacher! I swear I had the same drama teacher in Junior High so thank you for reminding me that Ms. Spencer was the best and the side comments are hilariously familiar.

Other cast includes: Tony Hale as Mr. Worth, Natasha Rothwell as Ms. Albright, Miles Heizer as Cal, Joey Pollari as Lyle, Drew Starkey as Garrett and Clark Moore as Ethan.

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

The Bluray and DVD Special Features include Deleted Scenes, The Adaptation, The Squad, #FirstLoveStoryContestWinner, Dear Georgia, Dear Atlanta, Audio Commentary by Director Greg Berlanti, Producer Isaac Klausner and Co-Screenwriter Isaac Aptaker and Gallery.

LOVE, SIMON is a story definitely from the heart and if you don’t feel every second of it then you need a chisel to get it out of its stone casing! This is a film about teenagers doing what teenagers do – struggle to know who they are and how to fit in. What makes this story relatable is that we have all been there in some form if you take a second to remember.

Of course it is harder to have secrets in high school with social media poking into every aspect of someone’s life. There isn’t a platform where one wrong word won’t make it around the planet faster than finding out it’s been posted. It is also a technological world where bullying has found another platform. Simon takes the higher ground in a way that is breath taking.

This film should be shown in junior and senior high schools as a teaching tool! Yes this is a story of a young man’s journey finding acceptance for his secret, but it’s also clearly a story of realizing that each of these kids has something they are afraid for anyone to know.

LOVE, SIMON is brilliantly written, the cast is stellar and the ending is how it should be – honest, upfront and a trip to Starbucks for a day on the road.

In the end – everyone deserves a great love story!

PETER RABBIT is Hopping Delightful

Jeri Jacquin

This week on Bluray-DVD-Digital from director Will Gluck and Sony Pictures Animation is the charming story of PETER RABBIT.

Peter Rabbit (James Corden) lives a bunny life with his family and friends. Spending his days hopping around in a stunning blue jacket, there is fun, adventure and time spent looking for food. Benjamin Bunny (Colin Moody), Flopsy (Margot Robbie), Mopsy (Elizabeth Debicki), Cotton-Tail (Daisy Ridley), Felix D’eer (Christian Gazal), Pigling Bland (Ewen Leslie), Mr. Tod (Fayssal Bazzi), Jemima Puddle-Duck (Rose Byrne) and Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle (Sia).

Of course the food is right behind a fence in the garden of Mr. McGregor (Sam Neill) who wants nothing more than to snack on Peter. Luring him into a trap proves to be too much for Mr. McGregor. Peter and the gang take over the garden once again not having a clue that there is soon to be a new owner.

Thomas McGregor (Domhnall Gleeson) inherits the house and is outraged that the animals have taken over. Clearing out the vermin he is seen by neighbor Bea (Rose Byrne) who happens to love all of the animals who wonders about him. When McGregor captures one of the big eared group, it brings Bea closer to him much to the irritation of Peter Rabbit.

Watching them spend time together, Peter Rabbit keeps an eye on McGregor to protect his friend Bea. The war is on between McGregor and Peter Rabbit but all the animals might be caught in the cross fire.

Corden as Peter Rabbit has the witty voice that gives the big eared blue jacket wearing furry critter fun, adventure, friendship mixed in with a little bit of jealously about his beloved Bea. My granddaughter giggled her way through every one of his antics and that’s what makes a memorable character.

Byrne as Bea loves her animal friends and they become the source of her illustrations. Trying to show McGregor how special they are, both Peter and the neighbor really do a number on her giving nature. Byrne is the perfect person to play this character because she has the ability to be as lovely as she wants to be and it’s easy to see why Peter loves her so much.

Gleeson as McGregor is absolutely charming in this film. I have to admit my favorite part is the wrestling scenes between Gleeson and Peter only because I fell for it hook, line and sinker. It plays out so well! Gleeson is, as his costars are, absolutely lovely and a little bit nutty which adds even more charm to the story. Gleeson is such a versatile actor having seen him in some very heavy roles, it’s nice to see more of his comedic side.

Other cast includes: Terenia Edwards as Siobhan, Natalie Dew as Janelle, Marianne Jean-Baptiste as Harrod’s General Manager, Sam Haft as the Postman, Sacha Horler as Betty, Alex Blias as Phil, Felix Williamson as Derek, Ming-Zhu Hii as Sarabeth, Lance Kerfuffle as J. David Scarfington, and David Wenham as Johnny Town-Mouse.

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment brings amazing quality motion picture and television productions. Such films as BILLY LYNN’S LONG HALFTIME WALK, THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN, UNDERWORLD BLOOD WARS and PASSENGERS also available for your home entertainment library – there is so much more. To see more of what they have to offer please visit www.sonypictures.com.

The Bluray-DVD includes the Special Features Peter Rabbit: Mischief in the Making and Shake Your Cotton-Tail Dance Along.  

PETER RABBIT is absolutely a family film filled with amazing characters, a story of friendship both human and animal and music that is fun. The songs are toe tapping and perfectly placed to add more snap to an already peppy adventure.

The cast with its stellar star voices are fun and engaging adding to the message of the importance of friendship and family and finding that sometimes they are exactly the same.

It is always amazing when an iconic and beloved character such as Peter Rabbit still has so much to share with another generation. Although I still love sharing the books with my granddaughter, it is fun to sit with her and watch PETER RABBIT so we can giggle together and have such a fun time together.

So hop along now and grab your Bluray-DVD copy of PETER RABBIT!

In the end – he’s not your garden variety hero!

ON WINGS OF EAGLES: The Eric Liddell Story is One of Faith

Jeri Jacquin

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment has every right to be amazingly proud of their DVD release of ON WINGS OF EAGLES: The Eric Liddell Story directed by Stephen Shin and Michael Parker.

Eric Liddell (Joseph Fiennes) has returned to China after winning a Gold Medal at the 1942 Paris Olympics. Believing he was born to help others through his faith and the missionary teachings of his parents, he returns to the classroom to teach children.

It all becomes dangerous when in 1937 Japan invades China at the beginning of World War II. Finding help in Xu Niu (Shawn Dou), the two continue to find a way to reach the towns and villages. Knowing the danger is increasing, Eric sends his wife Florence (Elizabeth Arends) and their children to Canada.

Florence knows right away that Eric intends to stay to fulfill his duty to help the villagers as much as he can. During a wedding ceremony, the Japanese capture Eric along with the entire church congregation and inter them in camps. Separating families, he takes on the mantle of leader and all that it implies trying to make their lives livable.

When the camp leader discovers who Eric is, he demands that they race. Providing him with nutritious food, Eric finds a way to distribute it to the children and those who are sickly. Xu Niu is outside the camp as well finding ways to bring in necessary food and medicine when he is able and always keeping an eye on his friend.

As the camp runs low on food for both the prisoners and the Japanese soldiers, Eric tries his best to compromise with results that are devastating. It doesn’t stop Eric Liddell from bringing hope to all those who rely on his strength to survive their time as prisoners.

It is hope that makes them stronger together!

Fiennes as Liddell is a quiet man who seems to have the ability to bring people such joy. Believing that helping others is what his duty on earth is, Fiennes brings a gentleness and strength to the role. That is what I enjoy about this actor in that his emotions come through his eyes and expression. Portraying Liddell is a challenge in itself and Fiennes gives it so much soul.

Dou as Xu Niu shares such a beloved friendship with Liddell. Seemingly inseparable throughout the film, it is clear that there is no boundary between these two individuals. Seeing one another as family is exactly what this film is all about. Fiennes and Dou make it feel so believable and lovely.

It also must be said that the music by Scott Greer is just absolutely lovely and powerful. It doesn’t drown out the emotions that we need to be feeling about the story but instead gently reminds us that investing our emotions in the story is a good thing.

The cast is exceptional with the addition of Augusta Xu-Holland as Catherine Standish, Richard Sanderson as Dr. Hubbard, Jesse Kove as Hugh Johnson, Simon Twu as Chen Quan, Shigeo Kobayashi as Yoshinori Yumoto, Zach Ireland as David Marshall and Bruce Locke as the Elder Xu Niu.

Sony Pictures Home Entertainment brings amazing quality motion picture and television productions. Such films as BILLY LYNN’S LONG HALFTIME WALK, THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN, UNDERWORLD BLOOD WARS and PASSENGERS also available for your home entertainment library – there is so much more. To see more of what they have to offer please visit www.sonypictures.com.

I have intentionally left out details in my review because I truly want the viewer to have the chance to feel the film in every scene. ON WINGS OF EAGLES: The Eric Liddell Story is such a heartfelt film of love, family, friendship and loyalty that endures through a struggle that is unfathomable.

The cast draws us into a journey and an era that could sometimes be so unforgiving and incomprehensible yet brings out the best in people. From helping one another to finding friendship and help from the villagers outside the electric fences, it is a reminder that evil may seem so tall but good doesn’t need a yardstick.

In the end – it is the true story of hope!

MY LITTLE PONY Friendship is Magic with Holiday Hearts on DVD

Jeri Jacquin

On DVD from SHOUT! Kids Factory and Hasbro Studios comes stories to begin the holiday season with MY LITTLE PONY Friendship is Magic – Holiday Hearts.

Staring with Applebuck Season it is apple harvest time and Applejack’s big brother McIntosh is hurt. Refusing the help of her friends, Applejack believes she can do it on her own. It doesn’t take long before she realizes that maybe she was wrong. All of her friends know that it is all too much and don’t hesitate to let her know they are there for the farm.

Winter Wrap Up has Twilight Sparkle wanting to be a part of the Ponyville fun when everyone prepares for spring and by not using magic. Struggling to be a part of the no-magic event, she worries about being able to truly help. Hearing the other leaders are having trouble keeping things straight, Twilight might have just found what she is non-magically good at.

In Castle Sweet Castle Twilight Sparkle doesn’t want to tell the others that she doesn’t feel at home at the castle. Wanting to help their friend, the others plan to redecorate but keep running into wanting to do it in their own style. Knowing Twilight misses the Golden Oak Library, the group comes on a plan to truly make the castle her home.

During Hearth’s Warming in Hearthbreakers, Pinkie Pie wants to invite her friend Applejack to spend time with her family at Pie rock farm. Both families discover that the way we spend holidays and have traditions is different in every family. With the two families differences, the Apples leave but Applejack wants to make things right for the holidays.

A Hearth’s Warming Tail has Twilight reading to her friend Starlight the story of A Hearth’s Warming Tail as Snowfall Frost is a unicorn that doesn’t like anything good, including Hearth’s Warming. Coming up with a brew to get rid of the holiday she instead has to deal with three spirits to help her understand what the holidays truly means.

Finally, in Not Asking for Trouble, Pinkie Pie is asked to be a part of the holiday in Yikslurbertfest. In this yak holiday, Pinkie and the yaks do the customary stomping ritual and it causes a disaster when snow covers the village! Trying to get Prince Rutherford to get help, he’d rather wait until the snow melts. Well, Pinkie Pie isn’t about to let that happen asking her friends to help get rid of the snow which garners the thanks of a Prince becoming an official honorary yak.

It’s just another holiday season for the Pony’s!

SHOUT! Factory brings the best to fans offering up feature films, classic television series, animation and specials. For more of what they have to offer go to www.shoutfactory.com. 

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

MY LITTLE PONY Friendship is Magic – Holiday Hearts includes the episodes Applebuck Season, Winter Wrap Up, Castle Sweet Castle, Heartbreakers, A Hearth’s Warming Tail, Not Asking for Trouble along with the bonus feature of a Sing-Along for even more fun. Also included are Christmas present tags!

I have to say that Applejack is one of my favorite pony’s but my granddaughter will tell you her favorite is Twilight Sparkle. That is what makes this series so amazing; everyone in the family can have their favorite and enjoy the series together.

The best part of this DVD is that each episode one again brings the most beautiful animation along with stories that are filled with holiday fun and friendship. MY LITTLE PONY Friendship is Magic – Holiday Hearts is a fantastic edition to anyone’s home entertainment library. It has to be there if you want fun, friendship and magic!

In the end – gather around for pony holiday tales!