Continue the Journey with OUTLANDER: The Complete Season 7

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming on a Collector’s Edition Bluray, Bluray and DVD from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is the continuation of OUTLANDER: The Complete Season 7.

As Jamie (Sam Heughan) and Ian (John Bell) try to get to Claire (Caitriona Balfe) who they think is in prison, don’t realize she has been taken to a ship to help a captain’s pregnant wife. That doesn’t mean the murder charge hanging over her head is forgotten. Tom Christie (Mark Jones) is keeping an eye out for Claire and her whereabouts as he promised Jamie on the road when Claire was taken. Back home, Roger (Richard Rankin) is still about his ministry as Brianna (Sophie Skelton) is close to giving birth to their second child.

Tom Christie decides there is only one way to save Claire and sends her back to Jamie. Once home they begin to pick up the pieces of their homelife but it doesn’t last as the family must make the sacrifice to send Roger, Brianna and their children back through the stones. Soon after, there is a horrifying arrival in Frasier’s Ridge that brings Claire and Jamies world upside down again. That is when Jamie decides it is time to keep his promise and take Ian home to Scotland. Now in Scotland, Brianna and Roger open a chest that has been closed for over 200 years.

Not making it to the ship home, Jamie is called up to the Continental Army as all three head to Fort Ticonderoga. Also nearby is William (Charles Vandervaart), Jamie’s son who is a British soldier and now father and son are on opposite sides of a war. Back home in the future, Brianna finds a job as their son Jemmy (Andrew/Matthew Adair) and daughter Mandy (Rosa Morris) find creatures around their home. Their parents find it amusing in a way but are more concerned about the letters they are reading from Claire and Jamie about the battles and caring for the wounded. Jamie is also dealing with his cousin Brig. General Simon Fraser (Angus Macfadyen) who he has to fight. Claire has help from Dr. Hunter (Joey Phillips) and his Quaker sister Rachel (Izzy Meikle-Small) who actually helped William when he was wounded.

Roger is feeling a bit out of sorts seeing Brianna working but is offered an opportunity at Jemmy’s school to teach Gaelic to those who want to learn. Rob Cameron introduces himself as one of Brianna’s employees and invites himself to dinner. Right before the dinner, Roger finds Buck (Diarmaid Murtagh) from 200 years ago in his yard! They work out both situations and Buck begins to understand what happened to him going through the stones. Again, there isn’t much time to breathe when Rob (Chris Fulton) takes Jemmy and no one knows why. One thing is for certain; it has something to do with the Spaniards that Jamie and Jemmy only know about. Now Roger and Buck must go back through the stones to find them.

In the past, Jamie is fighting on the field again and when it is time to stop, a request is made that will allow Jamie and family to head to Scotland and they are thrilled. Ian has become fond of Rachel and asks her to take care of his dog until he returns not knowing that William also has eyes for Rachel. In Scotland, they arrive just in time as Ian’s father Ian Sr. (Steven Cree) needs him as does his mother Jenny (Kristin Atherton). Jamie decides its also time to make amends with his own past. Claire receives a letter from their friend John (David Berry) that his nephew Henry Grey (Harry Jarvis) needs surgery and can she come quickly. Jamie encourages her to go and he will join her as soon as he is finished in Scotland. When she arrives, she performs the life saving surgery only to be under suspicion by the British later. Receiving bad news, Claire falls into a grief that cannot be explained and has to make a decision in order for she and her family to avoid the British. When Jamie returns there are fights to be had, disagreements that are made difficult, Jamie and Washington, Brianna and Mandy deciding to find Roger and Jemmy. That means Claire and Jamie must deal with more trials before they see Fraser’s Ridge again.

Balfe as Claire continues her role and it continues to tug at the hearts of fans. At the end of last season, it looked as if Claire was not going to get past what happened to her at the hands of kidnappers. Fans know that she might be down for a moment but will get back up and handle what ever is to come in the time she now calls home. At the end of season 6, she is taken away from Jamie once again and for something she didn’t do. The character of Claire means Balfe gives us a look at the deep strength her character has and continues to give under circumstances we can’t even wrap our heads around in this day and age. Balfe is our collective Claire and the final season means our questions might be answered about the Fraser future.

Heughan as Jamie is a guy’s guy and does not hesitate to do what he must for his family and his newly adopted country. It might not always be a decision that will make Claire happy but when he makes his beliefs known, Jamie is the guy you want on your side. Heughan has taken Jamie from a young man into a wiser man with a purpose and that is his family first (which is extensive), neighbors and country (both Scotland and the Americas). The fact is, as much as Claire is the person you want on your side, Jamie is also someone you want in your corner. He makes the hard calls and won’t ask anything of anyone he wouldn’t first do himself. That’s what makes him perfect for Claire, she is exactly the same way and they know that about one another.

Rankin as Roger gives us a bit of faith but doesn’t hesitate to stretch that and doing things that might not exactly fall into a religious’ category. He has such a good heart and loves his family as well. Rankin gives Roger such heart and soul that is so strong in his character that I can’t imagine anyone else playing this role. He doesn’t always do the right thing but it manages to work itself out and I love that. Skelton as Brianna is just as strong willed as her mother and she doesn’t care if they are living 200 years in the past, she is going to make it work her way. She has seen her mother struggle and it has made her stronger. Skelton gives us a perfect mash then and now.

Berry returns as Lord John and refuses to let political differences get between his friendship with Jamie and Claire. It is a fine line and it does get crossed momentarily but it is done because John believes he owes Jamie more than he can ever repay. That is also because of Vandervaart as William, a young man just beginning his military career and learning the lessons of war can change a person and the lessons of love can be just as disappointment. He knows about the Frasers and the friendship with his father Lord John, but he’s about to learn more than he could have bargained for. Jones reappears as Tom Christie with a tale of his own to tell and his heart still aching for a love he can not have.

Murtagh as Buck makes an appearance at Roger and Brianna with his own story of the stones to tell. Once he realizes how it works and where he fits in it all, he wants to help make things right when Jemmy disappears. Cree returns as Ian Sr. and he gets the opportunity to reconnect with his son again, Native American appearance and all. Atherton as Jenny is thrilled to see her family again and explains to her son why he needs to return with Claire to the new life he created for himself. Jarvis as Grey puts shock in his uncle’s way of thinking and I cheered for his decision. Phillips as Dr. Hunter is surprised to see what Clare is capable of medically and keeps an eye on his sister Rachel. Meikle-Small as Rachel is a young Quaker woman who is about to defy her faith by falling for someone her brother doesn’t believe will be accepted by their faith.

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.

The Bluray and DVD Bonus Materials include Four Outlander Untold Scenes, Blooper Reel and Deleted Scenes.

The episodes include A Life Well Lost, The Happiest Place on Earth, Death Be Not Proud, A Most Uncomfortable Woman, Singapore, Where the Waters Meet, A Practical Guide for Time-Travelers, Turning Points, Unfinished Business, Brotherly Love, A Hundredweight of Stones, Carnal Knowledge, Hello Goodbye, Ye Dinna Get Used to It, Written in my Own Heart’s Blood, and A Hundred Thousand Angels.

OUTLANDER: The Complete Season 7 is a run from start to finish. Each episode brings the life of Jamie and Claire to a full-on race to the final Season 8 (which I’m patiently waiting to see). Beginning in 2014, fans have been following their adventures (or misadventures depending on your outlook) and now, eleven years later, Season 7 sets us up for what it to come in the final season and I’m already teary eyed. All good things must come to and end, right?

This season meshes a 200-year difference and how they connect and it’s so complicated that you might want to get a pen and paper out to make a chart. Okay, so it has to be a really long piece of paper because the stories have taken us on quite a ride. Jamie and Claire have carried this series to places of heartache, love, friendship, family, torment, periods of time, countries, and have had their hearts torn for being a trusting and loyal couple. Once again, we are taken into their story of war, destruction, two-sides, and pain. Through all of that, these two characters have interconnected with others fans have come to love like Roger and Brianna, the duality of who people can be like Ian and unrequited love like Tom Christie and Lord John.

OUTLANDER has never once disappointed fans and Season 7 is no exception. So, gather up a group of Outlandians and prepare to binge. Once the story starts, there is no waiting to see what happens next!

In the end – our history is now!

 

ONE OF THEM DAYS Brings Laughs on Bluray

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray, DVD and Digital from director Lawrence Lamont and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is a comedy about ONE OF THEM DAYS.

Dreux Jones (Keke Palmer) is a waitress at a local diner but hoping one day to become a franchise manager. Living with Alyssa (Sza), Dreux is about at her wits end as boyfriend Keshawn (Joshua Neal) has worn out his welcome. Dreux is drawn to the very handsome Maniac (Patrick Cage) but he has a history that she just doesn’t want to be part of. Trying to get some peace and quiet, the door pounding landlord Uche (Rizi Timane) is demanding the rent. The shock comes when the girls realize that Keshawn has made off with their money.

Uche gives them until 6 p.m. to come up with the rent or out they go! Adding insult to injury, the same landlord has renovated an apartment and rented to a young Bethanny (Maude Apatow) who has no idea of the other tenants living conditions. But never mind that, the hunt is on for Keshawn as Alyssa tracks him down at another woman’s house! Yeah, a woman named Berniece (Aziza Scott) and she is not one to be messed with yet, things happen and now Dreux and Alyssa are on the run from a very angry woman.

Back to the rent, now the girls have to find ways to make money as quick as possible and strike out at the local money lender, visits a blood bank where Dreux gets a chance to talk with Maniac and as Alyssa discovers a way to make some quick cash. All of this as Dreux does her best at a promotion interview seemingly connecting with Shayla (Gabrielle Dennis) who also worked her way up in the company. Outside, Alyssa is having her troubles as Berniece has found them and is going to make sure to get her pound of flesh one way or another.

Back at the apartment, Uche has carried out his threats as the girls discover that the new tenant and her very large dog unknowingly help the girls out of a tough situation that about to get tougher as the local gangster King Lolo (Amin Joseph) is about to crash their cash party. All of this is just the day in the life of Dreux and Alyssa!

Palmer as Dreux is the level headed-planning ahead person of this dynamic duo. She works hard, and tries to keep her side of life moving forward. There are times with her roommate that Dreux’s patience is tested but their friendship is stronger than she realizes. Palmer carries her role into this comedy with determination and comedy. Sza as Alyssa is the free spirit who relies on the universe for the answers to problems they encounter. When her roommate feels like she is floating by just to get by, Alyssa gets creative in ways that might just be more problems. Sza is a nice duo with Palmer and it works.

Apatow as Bethany is a woman who doesn’t see a problem with moving into the complex and tries to make herself at home without clearly seeing the reaction of others. She wants to be friends with Dreux and Alyssa and it comes in handy. Cage as Maniac has a reputation and, as with most things, if you want to know something about a person – ask them. Neal as Keshawn is a womanizing-gaslighting-player with game that doesn’t surprises Dreux.

Shout outs to Mejia as Kathy the payday loan clerk because I’ll never hear the number 47 ever again without wanting to shout it. Also, Katt Williams as Lucky who speaks truths in ways that only Williams can and I’m all for it for this comic genius.

Other cast include Vanessa Calloway as Mama Ruth, Janelle James as Ruby, Kil Rel Howery as the Buyer, Dewayne Perkins as Jameel, DomiNque Perry as Shameeka, Dustin Ybarra as Joseph, Ray Santiago as Fabian, Keyla Mejia as Kathy and Katt Williams as Lucky.

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.

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.

Special Features include One of Them Gag Reels, Dream Team, Block Party: The Cast and What’s in My Bag with Lucky.

ONE OF THEM DAYS is a female comedy duo that works as Palmer and Sza get a chance to play. What I mean by that is these two women look like they are having fun beneath the surface. These roles are total opposites of one another yet, like most friendships, it works. One moment I am nodding my head in agreement with Dreux about “planning” and the next I am “letting the universe decide”.

This is a fun film to just gather up comedy lovers, have a bring your own food event and then gather up to a big screen television and have a movie night event. The comedy is there, the characters are so crazy fun and everyone knows someone like a character in the movie – okay maybe not King Lolo but you get my meaning.

In the end – it is just one of them days!

 

 

VENOM: The Last Dance

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray and Digital from writer/director Kelly Marcel and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is the next adventure with VENOM: The Last Dance.

Eddie (Tom Hardy) and his symbiote Venom are sitting in a bar in Mexico drinking and chatting away when a he sees a news report that is accusing him of murdering Patrick Mulligan (Stephen Graham). Now the only thing to do is go back to New York to find out what happened and straighten it out but they end up in the desert. What they don’t know is that a Xenophage is tracking them!

Rex Strickland (Chiwetel Ejiofor) is a soldier that doesn’t yet understand what is happening while decommissioning Area 51, but watches what Imperium Dr. Teddy Paine (Jeno Temple) and Sadie (Clark Backo). The women are attempting to discover the connection with the symbiote who is now part of Mulligan. Meanwhile, Eddie and Venom are attacked by the Xenophage sent by Knull (Andy Serkis) who wants the Codex.

Getting away, Eddie meets the Moon family with Martin (Rhys Ifans), wife Nova (Alanna Uback), daughter Echo (Hala Finley) and son Leaf (Dash McCloud). He and Venom see what a normal life can look like but also know they must find a way to stop what is happening. The trip leads them to sin city and the bright lights of Las Vegas. Unfortunately, Eddie can’t hide much longer and Krull wants that Codex at all cost.

Back at the defunct Area 51, the Martin is thrilled to finally see it but disappointed in what he finds. That disappointment won’t last long when Eddie, Venom and the Xenophage go at it once again. Dr. Paine and Sadie make a run for it releasing other symbioses’ that want to go against Krull’s creatures. Now the fight is on to discover a way to stop it all before the world is destroyed!

Hardy as Eddie is the straight guy to Venom’s humor. Hardy as Eddie acts as if he wants to go back in time when he didn’t know Venom. That’s the duality of their relationship – the wonderful emotions of love and hate. Yet, when it comes down to it, Eddie cares about Venom and vice versa (although a little crazier on Venom’s part). I love Hardy’s relationship with Venom and yes, I realize it’s a “character” but it is still important that this actor make it look flawless which he does.

Ejiofor as Strickland is a soldier who is doing what he is told. Once things get a little crazy, the only person he trusts is himself. Suspicious of what is really happening, he is shocked to see the Xenophage and now knows he is being kept in the dark. Ejiofor is always amazing in these character roles and I enjoy his performances. Temple as Dr. Paine along with Backo as Sadie are the two women who are working with Mulligan and his symbiote. Knowing about the Codex and dealing with Strickland bring about surprising results.

Ifans as Martin is so charming as a dad who only wants to go to Area 51 with his family. Ubach as Nova is so encouraging of her husband and wants him to be happy. Finley as Echo is a daughter going along for her father’s ride and McCloud as Leaf is a son who is enjoying the ride and meeting Eddie but doesn’t want anything to do with aliens!

Other cast include Otis Winston as Donald, Jack Brady as Jim, Ivo Nandi as Javier, Reid Scott as Dan Lewis, Jared Abrahamson as Captain Forrest, and Peggy Lu as Mrs. Chen.

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.

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.

Special Features on 4K UHD, Bluray and Digital Extras are Deleted & Extended Scenes,

Venomous Laughs: Outtakes & Bloopers, Bonded in Chaos: Tom Hardy, Author of Mayhem: From Writer to Director, Venom’s Inner Circle, Venom Unleashed: The Action & Stunts, Select Scene PreVis, One Last Dance – Tom Morello x Grandson Music Video, Savor the Last Bite: The Venom Legacy, and Brock Bottom: Mrs. Chen Interview.

DVD Extras include Venomous Laughs: Outtakes & Bloopers, Author of Mayhem: From Writer to Director and Venom’s Inner Circle.

VENOM: The Last Dance is an adventure for sure with Hardy and Venom going at it together. I have to say that it is those two characters that I enjoy the most because its just two friends who are constantly going back and forth with wit, sarcasm and even a bit of sweet friendship. The action and adventure part are evident from the very beginning and doesn’t stop until the end (which you must be prepared for).

The special effects are pretty darn good considering they are the important part of the storytelling which by the way includes Tom Hardy and Todd McFarlane. The film has received nominations from the Academy of Science, Fiction, Fantasy & Horror for Best Science Fiction Film, the Indiana Film Journalist Association for Best Vocal/Motion Capture Performance and the Hawaii Film Critics Society for Best Comic Book Film.

In the end – till death do them part!

 

The Story of SATURDAY NIGHT

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray, DVD and currently on Digital from director Jason Reitman and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is the story of the beginnings of SATURDAY NIGHT.

It is October 11^th, 1975 and Lorne Michaels (Gabriel LaBelle) is attempting to pull off something revolutionary for television in the NBC building. Bringing together young comedians and writers to pull of a comedy show is not as easy as it may sound. Ninety minutes before the show goes live, Michaels is trying to coral his players consisting of Chevy Chase (Cory Michael Smith), Gilda Radner (Ella Hunt), Dan Aykroyd (Dylan O’Brien), Laraine Newman (Emily Fairn), Garrett Morris (Lamorne Morris), Jane Curtin (Kim Matula) and John Belushi (Matt Wood).

When not dealing with their antics, he is wrangling the talent of Andy Kaufman (Nicholas Braun), Billy Preston (Jon Batiste), Jim Henson (Nicholas Braun), and George Carlin (Matthew Rhys). Keeping him moving forward is wife Rosie (Rachel Sennott) and Dick Ebersol (Cooper Hoffman) and the later is up against David Tebet (Willem Dafoe).

Fighting the clock, Michaels deals with Belushi and his dramatics, Morris who brings up his existential problem of “why am I here?”, Jim Henson and puppet issues, writers who think going up against the censor is a sport, Carlin who has his own opinion of what Michaels is trying to do, Milton Berle (J.K. Simmons) taking on the youngsters, and Johnny Carson having his own input.

Michaels learns that the jokes are on him when Ebersol comes clean with what NBC really had planned for the show. Having a meltdown, he finds a second wind of belief in what they are all trying to accomplish with the show and because of that, every Saturday after that, the world waits to hear LIVE FROM NEW YORK! IT’S SATURDAY NIGHT!

Labelle as Michaels runs through this film from start to finish putting out fires and dealing with drama from the big wigs upstairs to the little guy laying bricks on the stage. There is barely a scene that Labelle isn’t in and by the end I was absolutely dog tired even though I never left my seat. He gives us a fast-paced look at the first show and it is absolutely stunning with Labelle at the head of a shaky ship. Sennot as Rosie is Michael’s partner in the madness and she’s the one running around with a bucket of water for most of the fires.

Smith as Chase is charming and the biggest wise cracker of the bunch. That all comes to a stand still when confronted the likes of Milton Berle. Hunt as Radner is giddy to be a part of the cast, Fairn as Newman wonders where she fits in between Radner and Curtin, Matula as Curtin is quick and is willing to try anything to get the laugh. Morris as Morris is trying to fit in and that’s difficult when he sees himself as an Italian opera singer! O’Brien as Aykroyd must have study his character because I fell into his portrayal swiftly and made me laugh.

Braun gets the opportunity to play both the roles of Andy “Here He Comes to Save the Day” Kaufman and Jim “they are messing with my puppets” Henson. How fantastic that he does both and does them exceedingly well. Rhys as Carlin is playing one of the most iconic funny men of the time. Hoffman as Ebersol tries to keep Micheals on track but also knows something that he doesn’t and struggles with it.

Shout out to Willem Dafoe as Tebet and Simmons as Berle are both absolutely amazing in the film. Dafoe as the kind of slick haired smooth talker for Michaels but has an ace up his sleeve. Simmons is perfection as Milton Berle and his confrontation with Chase, Simmons gives us an Uncle Miltie that is jaw dropping.

Other cast include Finn Wolfhard as the NBC page, Ellen Boscov as Mrs. Kaufman, Andrew Feldman as Neil Levy, Leander Suleiman as Anne Beatts, Taylor Gray as Al Franken, Mcabe Gregg as Tom Davis, Abraham Hsu as Leo Yoshimura, Corinne Britti as Valri Bromfield, Rowan Joseph as Jim Fox, Kirsty Woodward as Audrey Dickman, Kaia Gerber as Jacqueline Carlin, Robert Wuhl as Dave Wilson, Drew Scheid as Bob Pook, Tommy Dewey as Michael O’Donoghue, Catherine Curtin as Joan Carbunkle, Josh Brener as Alan Zweibel, Paul Rust as Paul Schaffer, and Brian Welch as Don Pardo.

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.

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.

Special Features include The Making of the Movie of The Show That Almost Never Made It, Filmmaker Commentary and more!

SATURDAY NIGHT is a fast-paced film that delves deep into the opening night of SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE. It is a fantastic film and a wonderful way to learn about the beginnings of a show that still runs today – fifty seasons later! For my generation, there was nothing better in the world than gathering up friends, having a potluck, everyone bringing their favorite drink and sitting together on a Saturday night to laugh ourselves onto the floor. We understood the jokes, the underlying censor-pass humor, Land Shark!, Julia Childs aka Dan Aykroyd bleeding vigorously and John Belushi in a bee costume.

That’s what made this show and continues to make this show exciting, fun and a bit daring at times. Seeing how the first night came to be is just so amazing and Reitman, along with writer Gil Kenan, left no brick unlayed with the antics of the crew, the cast and those slinking around it all looking for a reason to pull the plug. SATURDAY NIGHT is a lesson in believing (especially in barrier breaking comedy) and how an idea can still resonate 45-years later. Hopefully friends are still gathering, potlucking and byob’ing.

In the end - the revolution begins at 11:30 p.m.!

The Story of How IT ENDS WITH US on Bluray

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray and on Digital from director Justin Baldoni and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is the story of how IT ENDS WITH US.

Lily Bloom (Blake Lively) is dealing with the death of her father but not in the way mom Jenny (Amy Morton) understands. Back in Boston, Lily is up on a rooftop thinking about what happened with Ryle Kincaid (Justin Baldoni) arrives on the rooftop as well and seems a bit unnerved. When he realizes Lily is there, a chemistry begins between the two and he is intrigued by the fact that Lily is not under his spell.

The next day, Lily is thrilled to get the keys to a shop she is going to open. Needing a caring touch, she is interrupted when Allysa (Jenny Slate) comes in with a big personality and wins Lily over and a job as well. Not too much later, Lily finds out that Ryle is Lily’s brother and is introduced to her husband Marshall (Hasan Minhaj). Spending time together, there is a mishap in Ryle’s kitchen and Lily gets injured.

When the shop opens, there is celebrating all around as the couple double date at a new eatery. Getting ready to order, Lily is shocked to see Atlas (Brandon Skylenar), someone who was extremely important in Lily’s younger years. They try to catch up but its an awkward situation and Ryle is unnerved. Then comes marriage and Lily believes things are going well. Even seeing Atlas one more time, she lets him know she is happy.

But a moment comes when Lily must decide what is true about her relationship, the memories that have come flooding back and is what she discovers going to become a generational pain.

Lively as Lily is absolutely stunning in this role. It seems a good fit actually as Lily is coming into her own yet there are so many shadows that she hasn’t come to terms with yet as Lively portrays all of it. This is a powerful role and it takes its time diving into it all and when it unwraps, so do all the emotions.

Baldoni as Ryle gives his role the right amount of everything to make his character believable. By this I mean it isn’t an out and out frightening performance but instead, subtle, in ways this character hasn’t been performed before. Baldoni gives the charm that, like Lily, allows us to see what we want to see. Well done.

Skylenar as Atlas has a history with Lily that not only does he refuse to forget but a love he can not let go of. When life separates them, it is the same life that brings them back together again. He sees her lot and once again feels the protectiveness over Lily. Skylenar is the quiet in the middle of the storm but also is the safe space that Lily hasn’t recognized yet.

Slate as Alyssa is a wild and whacky friend to Lily and sister to Ryle. She finds a friend in Lily but also sees what could be happening with her. I enjoyed watching her nuttiness and the relationship with co-star Minhaj as Marshall. He is just as charming and whacky as his wife so they are a perfect pairing for the film. Morton as mom Jenny has a secret past of her own that she refuses to acknowledge and instead focusing on trying to better her relationship with Lily.

Other cast includes Isabela Ferrer as the younger Lily, Alex Neustaedter as the younger Atlas, Kevin McKidd as Andrew Bloom, Robn Lively as Ms. Byland and Emily Baldoni as Dr. Julie.

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.

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.

Author Colleen Hoover published It Ends With Us in 2016 and says it is the hardest book she has ever written because it explores the themes of emotional turmoil and domestic violence. The book has been translated into twenty different languages and sold over one million copies worldwide. It quickly debuted at number 1 on The New York Times best seller list. Hoover wrote her next book It Starts With Us in 2022 and the relationship between Lily and Atlas.

Lively, Baldoni and Skylenar bring the story to life with amazing performances. Delving deep into the story, there are so many connections and also disconnects that come through that it feels relatable. That is why I believe the film is so successful. Those who love the book are immediately drawn to the film and are not disappointed. This is a film I see watching again and again.

In the end – it does end with us!

 

 

They Have Become AFRAID

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray and Digital from writer/director Chris Weitz and Blumhouse and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is the AI and being AFRAID.

Curtis (John Cho) is a computer engineer who enjoys a great relationship with his boss Marcus (Keith Carradine). He wants the company to design something A.I. realizing it is a growing industry. Curtis isn’t really happy about what is happening with the A.I. industry but holds his opinion when he meets Melody (Havana Rose Liu), Lighting (David Dastmalchian) and Sam (Ashley Romans). They have come to a meeting to show Curtis and Marcus their own idea with AIA.

Convincing Curtis to allow AIA into their home to wife Meredith (Katherine Waterston), daughter Iris (Lukita Maxwell) and sons Preston (Wyatt Lindner) and Cal (Isaac Bae), almost immediately Curtis sees unusual people around their home. AIA makes herself invaluable to Meredith and finds a way to ingratiate herself to teen daughter Iris but Curtis is not fooled. He decides to take matters into his own hands when Marcus informs him that the company has been sold and Curtis can become the new boss. Going to the headquarters is where Curtis makes a stand but AIA isn’t about to let him get away with anything.

At home, it all begins to become crazier and this time, he has the family behind him. Will it be enough to go against a strong AIA?

Cho as Curtis is a man who is happy with his family and his work. Of course, there are struggles with the kids and trying to make everyone happy but he does try. Bringing AIA home offers a bit of time with the wife and a connection for the kids. Surprised at first that the family finds their own place with AIA, it doesn’t take long before his return feelings about A.I. are validated.

Waterston as Meredith is a wife who begins to question being a Mom. AIA is there to listen but there comes a time when even she questions how the line blurs between a human beings’ true feelings and A.I.’s programed responses. Maxwell as Iris is a typical teenager who lets social media rule her life until AIA steps in. Bae as Cal is a youngster with an ipad and we all know how that can be. Preston as Lindner gets the chance to show he is just as brave, and a tad cleverer, than his dad. 

Shout out to Liu as Melody, Dastmalchian as Lightening and Romans as Sam for providing the creepiness needed for this to work. To be honest, had I ever met these three – I’d have run the opposite way so fast it would make my own head spin!

Other cast include Bennett Curran as Sawyer, Greg Hill as Henry, Riki Lindhome as Maud, Todd Waring as Papa and Ben Youcef as Ben.

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.

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.

Extra features include Five Deleted & Extended Scenes Including Alternate Ending and Dark Side of AI.

AFRAID is a look at how quickly A.I. can permeate family life in a larger sense. We use computers, phones, social media, websites etc. but AIA shows that in a snap how it can be used in the worst way. Cho brings the naysaying to it all but finds himself a bit pulled in by it until it starts to make him suspicious.

AIA actually becomes a bit of a star in this film solving problems and becoming best friends with the wife solving her issues, bff to the daughter solving her teen issues yet with the sons, the A.I. takes on a different look and feel. The film falls into the “beware of A.I.” that seems to permeate films right now and truthfully, I’m a bit on their side. Although, I have to also say I do like having Alexa around when I have weird questions I’m too lazy to look up myself so there’s that.

That being said, watch the film and discover which side you are on.

In the end – be careful what you let in!

 

 

He is THE NIGHT AGENT

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on DVD from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is the first season of THE NIGHT AGENT.

When FBI Agent Peter Sutherland (Gabriel Basso), after saving people from a bombing, comes to the attention of the White House Chief of Staff Diane Farr (Hong Chau). She asks him to become part of the Night Agent program. Meantime, Rose Larkin (Luciane Buchanan) who had a career in cybersecurity, visits her family as the house is attacked and she has the telephone number that would get her to Sutherland. Farr gives instructions to Sutherland and he learns that Rose’s family were part of the Night Agent program but more becomes unraveled. Assassins are hot on their trail as Sutherland and Rose search for answers.

Someone has called the assassins Dale (Phoenix Raei) and Ellen (Eve Harlow) telling them where Larkin is located to finish what has been started. When Sutherland realizes that the posted Secret Service agents are gone, he finds Larkin and the chase is once again on with the assassins. Farr and Hawkins speak to the Campbell’s and begin to put the pieces of a puzzle together. Now the story of Farr and Hawkins comes together as well.

President Travers (Kari Matchett) wants an investigation and Farr wants more than that. When Larkin runs, Sutherland comes up with a cover in order to have time to deal with the encryption. When Farr finds out what is happening, she implicates the President. Chelsea Arrington (Fola Evans-Akingbola) is a Secret Service agent responsible for protecting the Presidents daughter Maddie (Sarah Desjardins) and is assigned with new partner Eric Monks (D.B. Woodside). Even with problems, there is something in Maddie’s school that needs attention.

Larkin, still working on the hard drive, discovers so much more than they could have imagined. Still leery of Farr, she agrees to work with her. Following leads, they meet Lorna and it becomes clear what the plans were for D.C. As everything unwinds, another target becomes clearer. Sutherland tries to question Arrington while Larkin finds a link to Andrej Pavelic. Sutherland is also investigating a link to a government contractor. The two come together to compare notes and just as quickly, Maddie is kidnapped.

Sutherland is following leads but tells Larkin she needs to stay away for her protection. Cisco is with her but Farr makes plans of her own and once again Sutherland is on the run. Ellen and Dale are following to do what they seem to do best but while that is going on, Redfield (Christopher Shyer) gives a press conference naming Sutherland as a kidnapper. Now Arrington and Monks are looking at Maddie’s art teacher and anyone associated with him. The name Matteo (Andre Anthony) is brought up and a rift between he and Redfield emerges. Wick Farr and Redfield are also dealing with footage from a nanny cam. Ellen, dealing with grief, is on a fierce and angry rampage of her own.

Sutherland and Larkin are working with Arrington and Monks as much as they can with each other. Arrington informs them about Omar “Osprey” Zadar from the Travers administration. Maddie discovers something that will help those looking find her and it leads to an all-out take down.

Redfield finally admits to Farr what he has been doing in the Balkins. Not happy, Farr does agree to work him on what should be done. Sutherland and Larkin are back on the run as Arrington wants to take Maddie back to her family and tell the truth about everything but it doesn’t go as planned. Larkin gets into Ellen’s phone and discovers Farr’s playing both ends against the middle. When Farr realizes what Redfield and Wick (Ben Cotton) have planned, she realizes how far out of the loop she actually is.

Arrington is taking Maddie to Redfield who is waiting at Camp David as he tries to use her. Farr once again works with Sutherland and Larkin and it is a whirl of events that could possibly cause the death of the President. Sutherland isn’t about to let that happen but instead, hold those accountable for everything that has happened, even if it means finding out things he must deal with on his own.

Basso as Sutherland is a strong lead in the series as a man shadowed with a rumor about a father and his own past mistakes. When he is asked to be the Night Agent, he tries to look at the role as one of upward momentum in the bureau instead of a position that might not go anywhere. Basso is quick in portraying his character as a man constantly on the move as he unravels a new mystery that might be connected to his own.

Chau as Farr is absolutely stunning. Portraying the trusted position and friendship with the President, there is nothing that gives her away. Presenting her character with monotone reactions, it seems like nothing shakes her. That doesn’t stop her from having a sharp tongue and letting those around her know that she will not fall for anything – or anyone. I loved her in the film THE MENU so to see her again in a stand out role is everything.

Buchanan as Larkin finds herself in the same position as Sutherland once was. When her family is under suspicion, she must follow the bread crumbs the best way she knows how and that is her ability to us the same technology as those around her. Buchanan is just as strong of a female lead as Chau and I love when they have moments together in scenes. Evans-Akingbola as Arrington is protecting the Vice Presidents’ daughter and also trying to find Sutherland and Larkin. She slowly learns that not everything is at it seems. Evans-Akingbola is another strong female character in the series who is trying to keep her balance in all the intrigue.

Woodside as Monk is an agent known for his duty with the former President, dealing with his own demons, he is partnered up with Arrington. They don’t trust one another at first but there comes a point where they realize they might have been put together for a reason. Desjardins as Maddie is a rebellious young woman who wants to live her own life out from under the shadow of her father’s position. Desjardins character finds herself in the middle of the intrigue but she isn’t going to go down quietly.

Raei as Dale and Harlow as Ellen are two of the strangest assassins and I’m all about following their assignment of terror. They are quick, ruthless, show no fear and Harlow’s character is the one that harbors intense rage. Throughout the series, you never know when these two show up but when they do, it’s not a good thing!

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.

Special Features include Episode 1 Commentary with Executive Producer Shawn Ryan, 12 Deleted Scenes, Blooper Reel, Episode 1 VFX and Episode 10 VFX. The DVD includes the 10-part episodes of The Call & Redial directed by Seth Gordon, The Zookeeper & The Marionette directed by Guy Ferland, Fathoms directed by Ramaa Mosley, Best Served Cold & Redux directed by Adam Arkin and The Devil We Know & Fathers directed by Millicent Shelton.

THE NIGHT AGENT Season One is an introduction to these characters but by its end, it is clear that there is more of the story to tell. Already cleared for more seasons, this is definetly one you want to keep on your radar. There are twists, turns, betrayals, lies, deception and relationships that can be difficult to maintain through corruption. In the midst of all of it are chases, evasions, plotting, and shocks but that is what a good series brings.

The cast brings their best and it shows from start to finish. Working together to bring this puzzle to viewers is so well done with the ensemble of talent. This is definetly a show worth binge watching, especially preparing for the next season.

In the end – heroes aren’t born, they answer the call!

 

 

It is all CLASSIFIED

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to VOD & Digital from director Roel Reine, Saban Films and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment comes the twists and turns when it is all CLASSIFIED.

Evan Shaw (Aaron Eckhart) is a CIA agent who is continually on the move. Learning who his targets were discrete ways; Shaw handled each case quickly. Not spending much time thinking about his life, his only friend is Kevin Angler (Tim Roth). It is actually the only person he can talk about a lost love about.

Arriving at his next assignment, a young woman named Kacey (Abigail Breslin) was waiting in his hotel room. What she had to tell him was nothing Shaw could have ever expected. Kacey, an MI6 analyst, tries to convince him that he was actually working for a phantom. Shaw is not convinced and is not going to take just her word for it.

Doing his own investigation, Shaw realizes that something is terribly wrong. He and Kacey decide that it is time to dig deeper into who has been leading Shaw around, but it also answers questions for Kacey. Teaming up, it is time to put an end to the mysteries and those responsible for it all.

Eckhart as Shaw has jumped into the action-star genre following other actors that find second wind to their careers. As this CIA agent, Eckhart is quiet, tough and once he got an assignment, that’s where his focus was aimed toward. Each move he makes takes him in another direction until the only direction left is right into the fray. This is a total action film from start to finish with Eckhart going full bore.

Breslin as Kacey is a young woman who is with MI6 and after learning about Shaw decides to confront him about what she knows. It becomes clear what her motivation is but she also doesn’t have a problem jumping right in with Shaw either. Knowing that whoever is responsible for sending Shaw on missions also holds the key to her life mystery.

Roth as Angler seems to have been a good friend to Shaw. As things begin to unravel, Roth keeps one foot in front of the other to stay away from the gunfire that seems to be headed his way. Roth plays a man who doesn’t seem moved by what is happening around him and doesn’t seem to grasp why Shaw is upset with him. That being said, it doesn’t stop bullets from flying around him!

Other cast include Myles Clohessy as Tanner, Kim DeLonghi as Liona, Baylee toney as Cassandra, Marysia S. Peres as Monica Walker, Mariah Hardy as Sophie, Massimo P. Morana as Steve and Matt Hookings as Antonio Griffin.

Saban Films was launched in 2014 and has built an impressive slate of high-quality feature films distributed with partner Lionsgate. Focusing on talent-driven films, the company looks at projects in all stages of production to be released across multiple platforms. Films such as SISTER OF THE GROOM, FATMAN and BREACH are part of the wonderful Saban slate, and more information can be found at www.sabanfilms.com.

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.

CLASSIFIED is a mystery-thriller that starts with the first frame until the last. Eckhart playing Shaw as a rough, rugged and scared man who just goes from mission to mission. Once Kacey enters the picture, his whole life is about to shift dramatically. It is his CIA training that keeps him looking for clues as to who is responsible for lying to him for so long.

Adding Kacey to the mix, the young woman realizes through her job that something has gone terribly wrong and she wants answers herself. The first person to turn to is Shaw and from the moment they meet, someone wants to end their team up!

If you love a good action-thriller, plot twists and satisfying ending, then CLASSIFIED is a film you can enjoy on the home big screen and loud sound bar! Don’t forget a tub of popcorn!

In the end – there is more than one point of this mystery!

It all Ends with THE CROWN – The Complete Final Season

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray from writer Peter Morgan, directors Alex Gabassi, Christian Schwochow, May el-Toukhy, Erik Richter Strand, Stephen Daldry and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment comes the royal finale of the most fascinating series to come to television with THE CROWN – The Complete Final Season.

Princess Diana (Elizabeth Debicki) is attempting to have a life after her divorce from Charles (Dominic West) going on vacation with Mohamed Al-Fayed (Salim Daw) while Prince Charles is having a party for mistress Camilla (Olivia Williams). Queen Elizabeth II (Imelda Stanton) is asked to attend but yet knows the repercussions of attending. One photograph of Diana upstages Camilla’s party sending Charles into a tizzy. When Dodi (Khalid Abdalla) arrives on his father’s yacht, he and Diana become closer.

Now the British government is being pressured to consider denying Mohamed’s application for citizenship but he is not going to take it lightly. Diana says goodbyes to William (Ed McVey) and Harry (Luther Ford) who are going with their father to Balmoral Castle, while she continues to support the Landmine Survivors Network charity. Charles takes the opportunity to use photographs of she and Dodi against her and coerces his sons to take a photo showing them happy with their father.  The Queen is becoming irritated with the whole thing as Diana goes to France with Dodi.

Mohamed tells Dodi that if he marries Diana, he will work with him in the family business. Diana and Dodi are spending time together and to avoid the paparazzi go into a jewelry show where Diana points out a ring she likes. Jetting off to Paris, Dodi has a surprise planned but the surprise is that both he and Diana have a talk about their future. Back at Balmoral, Prince William is hunting in the vast lands of the castle and in Paris there is the sounds of a crash.

Mohamed goes to Paris to take his son home and the father is absolutely in grief but also returns Diana’s things to the royal family. Charles arrives to take Diana home and tells the family of the public response to her death. The Queen finds herself in a trap between what she believes should be the response to the Princess’ death and what the British outcry is telling her. Feeling pushed towards it, she agreed to a ceremonial funeral as Charles William, Harry and Philip (Jonathan Pryce), are followed with Diana’s brother Charles Spencer (Philip Cumbus) in the procession. The Queen does deliver a speech for Diana as well.

Charles is having trouble with William who wants to return to school even though the family tells him he can take his time. He starts receiving mail and becoming someone of a teenage heartthrob that makes him uncomfortable. On a skiing holiday, Williams makes it clear to his family that he is absolutely hating the press which Charles thinks is part of the struggle dealing with his mothers’ death. Thinking he is meeting the Queen but Charles is there setting William into accusing his father of Diana’s death. It takes Philip to calm the waters as William needs to visit Althrop.

Prime Minister Tony Blair is dealing with the invasion of Kosovo and wants US military help but Clinton isn’t as quick to give his support.  When the Queen asks for ways he thinks will modernize the crown, she isn’t to keen to agree with his ideas. William meets a young woman named Kate (Meg Bellamy) who has a crush on the young prince. They meet again years later in college and he is now keen on her, unfortunately his awkwardness and a boyfriend get in the way. When Kate hears that William is thinking of leaving, she inserts her own opinion.

Princess Margaret (Lesley Manville) remembers a special time between she and her sister that is carefree but her life hasn’t been easy. Life choices and strokes are plaguing the now elderly royal. Taking care of her after a recent episode, they talk about that special night in 1945 as both become aware of their roles and how it, at times, kept them apart. More trouble is on the horizon as Mohamed accuses the royal family of being responsible for the death of Diana and Dodi and the Queen Mother has passes as well. William sees Kate once again and the two become roommates with friends.

The Queen’s 80^th birthday is coming and advisers think its time for her to plan her state funeral and she already knows the bagpipe sound of Sleep, Dearie, Sleep must be played. Charles finally asks her if he may marry Camilla and at this point, she agrees to it after talking with the church bishops. William, Kate and Harry are put to the fire when a Halloween costume causes press trouble. After thinking of abdicating, the Queen reconsiders and Philip tells her it is the right decision as Charles and Camilla finally marry.

At the chapel, the Queen has a think on life and hears bagpipes.

Stanton as Queen Elizabeth was the absolute stellar choice to play the finale series look at the life of the Queen. She gave everything that showed what could have possibly happened in this remarkable woman’s life. Stanton gives poise, thoughtful choice, a bit of frustration and the care of a daughter/sister/wife/mother/grandmother that was not allowed to be seen to the public because of the raise she was taught to be a royal. Just brilliant actually. Let me just say that the final scene of the series absolutely gutted me.    

Debicki as Diana is also a marvelous casting choice and I was in it for everything she gave. Playing someone with such a widely known public life is difficult enough, but to dive into the personal is another level difficult that Debicki did masterfully. Every award she received was absolutely well earned. West as Charles, well, of course he did it well. He is a diverse actor that can play good, bad and indifferent. In this case, that about sums up the portrayal of Charles and how the world sees this particular royal in the years prior to him becoming King. Williams as Camilla is portrayed as the sweet victim in all this which only lends to anyone watching to wonder how this portrayal came to be.

Daw as Mohamed Al-Fayed is a shrewd businessman but also wants a crown of his very own in the form of his son marrying Diana. That’s not to say he did honestly have a fondness for the royal but it is a duality in his character that Daw brings out. Abdalla as Dodi is a man who is trying to make a name for himself and doing it in a way that brings father and son tension. That is until he meets Diana but that in itself brings the media to the forefront in her life. Trying to find a way to share a life together. Abdalla is charming and frustrating all at the same time in his portrayal but it works in the story.

Pryce as Philip is by his wife’s side even when he doesn’t always agree with her decisions. He has an opinion and Pryce makes sure his character expresses it. McVey as William is a young man dealing with sad situation after sad situation and learns to come to terms with it in his own way. Ford as Harry is also trying but being younger, he is surrounded by those who jump in quickly to avoid the same situation that William finds himself in.

Manville as Margaret is so amazing but then again, I adore her as much as I do Stanton. The scenes between these two actresses are so beautiful as Manville puts her own touches on the lesser understood royal. Bellamy as Kate portrays the future Queen as actually how most people see her – open, genuine, lovely and outgoing. I secretly hope that in a few years they do THE CROWN again with Charles reign bringing Kate’s story out in the open.

Other cast include Claudia Harrison as Princess Anne, Eve Best as Carole Middleton, Viola Prettejohn as teenage Elizabeth, Beau Gadsdon as teenage Margaret, Harry Anton as Trevor Rees-Jones, Andrew Havill as Robert Fellowes, Jamie Parker as Robin Janvrin, Bertie Carvel as Tony Blair and Marcia Warren as the Queen Mother.

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.

The series includes the episodes Persona Non Grata, Two Photographs, Dis-Moi Oui, Aftermath, Willsmania, Ruritania, Alma Mater, Ritz, Hope Street, Sleep Dearie Sleep, Special Features include A Family Saga, Royal Weddings and A Lasting Legacy.

THE CROWN has won so many awards including Best Supporting Actress and Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series at the Golden Globe Awards and Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series at the Primetime Emmy Awards for Elizabeth Debicki.

As a thrilled super-fan of THE CROWN, this is a series I absolutely can and will watch again and again. The performances of the cast from Claire Foy ending with Imelda Stanton is just so stellar and even that seems like such a small word to describe such a big event in the life of the beloved Queen Elizabeth. Portraying her has having the ups and downs of life all while trying to have a personal life along with her royal duties is unfathomable to most yet she did so with the dignity she believed was required of her position.

The Executive Producers, writers and directors has an outstanding formula in this storytelling and they took it and ran – taking us all along with them. Having all six seasons available means only one thing, those who have not seen the series have the opportunity to binge it all at one time (which I can absolutely see happening). The cast is exceptional, the cinematography and set designs are another character in the series and the costuming allows us to follow along with the changes in their lives keeping up with the times. Although, the Queen and her hats, gloves, shoes and the snap of the purse are iconic and can never be done again.

The complete series collector’s box set is now available on Buray! Winner of over 20 Emmys including Outstanding Drama Series, the box set contains all six seasons on high-definition with over 100 minutes of special features and a collectable 24-page photobook with a special message from Peter Morgan.

In the end – they are the family royal!

HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON is Colorful on Bluray

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Bluray and Digital from director Carlos Saldanha and Sony Pictures Home Entertainment is the adventure of HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON.

Harold (Zachary Levi) is a colorful character with a purple crayon that lets him do amazing things. Along with his friends Moose (Lil Rey Howery) and Porcupine (Tanya Reynolds), there time is spent having adventures and drawing inside their world. They listen to the Old Man (voiced by Alfred Molina) until, one day, the Old Man stops speaking to them. Harold decides that its time to go into the Real World to find him.

Opening a portal, he goes through and is filled with childlike wonder at a world of color and people. He sees and old man but quickly realizes there might be more than one in this world. He quickly finds Moose and draws up a mode of transportation to begin their search for the Old Man. What they don’t expect is a swipe by a car driven by Terri (Zooey Deschanel) and son Mel (Benjamin Bottani). Mel is instantly taken with Harold and Moose and when he learns they have no place to stay, talks Terri into allowing them to stay in the garage attic.

Again, Harold and Moose are just amazed at their surroundings but back to the business of finding the OLD Man. Mel has an idea of going to the library seeking the help of Gary (Jermaine Clement), the librarian who writes fantastical stories that can’t seem to find a publisher. Using his powers of persuasion (i.e. his mom), Mel gets Gary to use the internet to possibly track down the Old Man. When it doesn’t work, Harold, Moose and Mel decide to look around for themselves. Gary looks out the window and sees Harold and his purple crayon going to work.

Doing a bit of investigating himself, he discovers that Harold is actually looking for Crockett Johnson, Harold’s creator. Gary decides he has finally found a way to bring his own dreams to life and goes after the purple crayon. Harold could never have imagined that the real world has its own set of adventures!

Levi as Harold is so lovely giving with his childlike attitude of this character. He gives Harold a brightness and light that just brings a smile whether you want to or not. Seeing the world as such a wonderful place, he refuses to see any bad. Levi does such a wonderful job in this role and my family just fell for him and the purple crayon.

Bottani as Mel is just as childlike as Harold with his imaginary friends that mom doesn’t see. He believes in Harold and will do anything to help as Bottani embraces Harold’s world. It is fun to watch the young actor mix in with the adults and doing such a wonderful job. Deschanel as mom Terri is trying to understand her son’s need for imaginary friends while dealing with his new friends. Yet it is Harold that reminds Terri that dreams can come true no matter what our age. Deschanel is charming, as she usually is, as Mel’s Mom.

Clement as Gary is a bit whacky as he sees his creative writing dreams not coming to pass. Frustrated that his work isn’t being recognized or that his affections for Terri also go unrecognized, he turns a bit toward the dark side. Clement is actually funny in a dark way and I really loved his characters story idea even if the name is a tad strange.

Howery as Moose is Harold’s sidekick in the real world trying to keep him out of trouble. He doesn’t openly admit to liking the real world but Howery offers up a childlike wonder of it all. Reynolds as Porcupine is a sassy animal that has no time for nonsense. I actually enjoyed her way of thinking in the real world.

Other cast include Elizabeth Becka as Ms. Barnaby, Seth Robbins as Oscar, Camille Guaty as Detective Silva, Pete Gardner as Detective Love and Ravi Patel as Prasad.

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.

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.

Special Features include How to Draw Harold, porcupine & Moose, “Colors” Sing Along, How Do You Spell Imagination? and Deleted & Extended Scenes.

HAROLD AND THE PURPLE CRAYON is so much fun to watch. Harold sees his own world as a place of wonder but when he doesn’t hear the Old Man anymore, that’s when another adventure begins. It is one that he could have never imagined and Levi gives us that childlike wonder from beginning to end. Even though the search is for one thing, Harold, Moose and Porcupine find a colorful adventure they could never have imagined.

Deschanel and Bottani are in the real world dealing with real life problems but that is all about to change for them. Mom has forgotten her dreams and Bottani has an imaginary life that he loves – both of these characters are relatable for us all in one way or another. So, this film is a way to reignite dull imaginations into blooming and colorful ones once again. There is nothing wrong with being reminded that dreams don’t have an age limit nor do they expire unless we let them.

The animation in the film is so vivid and adds the perfect touch to a story about color and life! The children’s book Harold and the Purple Crayon began its own journey in 1955 being written and illustrated by Crocket Johnson. This is not his only book as Harold has nine other adventures finishing with Harold’s Treasure Hunt in 2020. Get the family together to enjoy the adventure of HAROLD AND THE PURPLE crayon on Bluray.

In the end – everything he draws is about to get real!