Disney Brings the Live-Action MOANA

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from director Thomas Kail and Walt Disney Studios comes the live-action MOANA.

This film tells the story of Moana (Catherine Laga’aia), daughter of Chief Tui (John Tui) and drawn to the ocean. Growing up with village expectations continually keeps her away from the waves that she loves. Listening to her father about taking her responsibilities seriously, she stays away from the water.

But one person knows of Moana’s love of the sea and desire to see what is beyond the waves, Gramma Tala (Rena Owen), who shares the secret of the people. Deep within the island are boats once used by Moana’s people, who were explorers.

When the island harvest isn’t producing what it normally does and the fish are disappearing from the cove, Moana knows she must do something to help. Along with rooster Heihei, Moana takes a boat and hits the seas searching for demigod Maui (Dwayne Johnson).

They work together to reunite the heart of Te Fiti and save the people of Motunui Island.

Laga’aia as Moana is strong-willed, filled with ocean-guilt, loved by her people, and carries a tune. Knowing that the responsibilities come with the job of being the Chief’s daughter, Moana tries to fill the shoes. It is difficult to follow in the footsteps of the animated Moana with the voice of Auli’I Cravalho. Laga’aia gives it her own interpretation, but something is missing in this character. Laga’aia seems more stoic with a lovely voice in her portrayal.

Johnson as Maui is back as the demigod of wind and sea! He’s big; he has wavy black/brown (it constantly changes) hair and a tattoo that literally is his conscience. Being the voice of Maui in 2016, stellar, and there is absolutely no one else who could have pulled it off. As the live-action Maui? Not so much. I love Dwayne Johnson- don’t get me wrong; I just think it was a body suit stretched too far. It is too difficult to go from being the animated voice to being the actual character. The performance is just…fine.

I have to take this moment to talk about Heihei the chicken. This bird is hilarious. Yes, the pig is cute, and the fish of the sea are awesome, but Heihei is the most unusually funny animal I have seen in Disney films.

Big shout out to Owen as Gramma Tala. She has such a big heart in this story. The relationship she has with Moana is tender and strong. Anyone who has that kind of relationship with their grandmother, Owen, will give you a reason to reach for a Kleenex. Beautiful performance.

Other cast include Emma Puahi-Shapazian, Amaya Masoli, Arya Kasarla all as young Moana, Frankie Adams as Sina, and Jemaine Clement as Tamatoa.

MOANA has, once again, managed to leave a sour taste in my mouth. I don’t know what it is that those handling films feel the need to take beloved animated films and ruin them. I just don’t see the need to make them live-action. It’s not like Disney has much success in this area, and someone needs to sit down with them and calmly say, “Stop it.” I volunteer to take the hit. With three generations sitting in the theatre watching, none of us were blown away by the film. It felt lifeless and too early to be made into a live-action. It’s only been ten years since the original release, and already a live-action? Why bother making animated films if the intent is to do it? When asked what I thought of the films, the only word I could come up with was - unnecessary.

What is the point of live-action when there are special effects and CGI, which is just a few steps up from animation? Even the actors have been tampered with, meaning Johnson’s character. So, what is the point? That’s the question I kept asking myself through the film. I giggled and laughed with the animated MOANA (and still do); the live-action version just had me wishing I’d stayed home.  

Look, before anyone jumps on me, there is love, family, humor, friendship, suspense, adventure, and cuteness with the chicken. The colors are vibrant and make me wish our oceans looked like that again. That’s the takeaway from the film if one is looking for the positives. Yet, these are the same themes, songs, lines, etc., as the 2016 animated film.

Of course, you can’t have The Rock in a film where his character is not only narcissistic but also has tattoos that remind him of that fact, a cockeyed chicken, an ocean with attitude, and a young girl with determination bigger than the demigods' pecks, and not have a tad of family fun. It’s summer and families need to do things together, so MOANA it is.

In the end – the ocean is calling!

The Gang is Back For Toy Story 5

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres from directors Andrew Stanton, McKenna Harris, Walt Disney Studios, and Pixar Animation Studios is the next adventure with TOY STORY 5.

Bonnie (Scarlett Spears) is now eight years old and still very shy. Playing in her yard with Jessie (Joan Cusack) and Buzz (Tim Allen), she wishes the neighbor kids would join her. That’s when Mom and Dad decide to get a Lilypad tablet like all the other kids. Almost immediately, Bonnie becomes addicted to the games with online friends. That means now Jessie, Buzz, and the gang are being left behind.

Trying to reason with the tablet Lily (Greta Lee), Jessie lets her know that Bonnie needs her play friends. Lily decides that she can do one better and connects the little girl to her dance classmates. Jessie feels the need to contact Woody (Tom Hanks) to ask for help. Meantime, Buzz is trying to figure out how to tell Jessie how he’s feeling about her. Being invited to a sleepover at Chelsea's, Bonnie takes Lily while Jessie and Bullseye stowaway in her luggage.

Once at the sleepover, almost immediately, Chelsea and the other guests tease Bonnie about her toys, but it’s short-lived when she breaks out her Lilypad. Jessie and Bullseye escape, and by accident, a couple finds them and sees a name and address on Jessie. The problem? It is the name and address of Jessie’s previous little girl. At the farmhouse, Jessie meets Smarty Pants (Conan O’Brien), who tells him of Blaze (Mykal-Michelle Harris), his kid, who has forgotten him, along with other toys.

When Woody arrives at Bonnie’s, both he and Buzz realize that Jessie and Bullseye are missing! Confronting Lily, they both know that getting to her may lead them to Jessie. With the help of Smarty Pants and his friends, Jessie learns that technology can help them reunite with Bonnie, but it is also a chance for Bonnie to find a true friend!

Hanks as Woody returns to the fold to help his bestie, Jessie. Wanting to do whatever he can, it will take working together again with Buzz. There is a little more to it this time as emotions tend to get in the way. I just love Hanks as Woody, and hearing him return as Woody is just everything to the TOY STORY franchise. Allen returns as Buzz, and this time, we get to see this character play out the emotions that he has managed to hide for so long. Allen proves that he is perfect as Buzz and this time around, is so charming.

Cusack as Jessie is the main character who is now experiencing what Woody and Buzz went through so many years ago with Andy. Just as Woody was with Buzz, now Jessie is dealing with a more powerful problem – technology. Cusack gives Jessie such depth of feeling that we get a chance to see a little more of Jessie’s story and where her pain comes from. Just so sweet. Lee, as Lily is the mean part of technology that brings about a divide, separating Bonnie from the friends who have always been there for her. Lee uses her voice with such personality that will make parents recognize the problems with kids on tablets, and also how Lily finds a happy medium with Bonnie’s toys.

Spears as Bonnie is still the same shy little girl as when Andy met her. Having a difficult time to connect with kids, it is the Lilypad that expanded her reach. Spears has such a wonderful voice of a young girl filled with insecurities and uncertainties that her age comes with. I think I can speak for many when I say we just love Bonnie because she is so relatable. Harris as Blaze lives away from the city in a world all her own. When Jessie and Bullseye come into her life, she remembers play again and mixes it with the technology that she had forgotten about. Harris gives us a spunky young lady who isn’t afraid to be who she is. A lesson she is going to share.

Other cast include Wallace Shawn as Rex, Jeff Bergman as Mr. Potato Head, Shelby Rabara as Snappy, Tony Hale as Forky, Craig Robinson as Atlas, Lori Alan as Mrs. Anderson, Blake Clark as Slinky Dog, John Hopkins as Mr. Pricklepants, Jay Hernandez as Mr. Anderson, Kristen Schall as Trixie, Ernie Hudson as Combat Carl, Krys Marshall as Mrs. Manoukian, Anna Vocino as Mrs. Potato Head, Benito Ocasio as Pizza, Matty Matheson as Dr. Nutcase, John Ratzenberger as Hamm, Melissa Villasenor as Karen, Alan Cumming ass evil Bullseye, Bonnie Hunt as Dolly, and Keanu Reeves as Duke Caboom.

The film’s song I Knew It, I Knew You sits at Number One on Billboard’s Hot 100, bringing Taylor Swift a bit back to her country roots. It is also Number One on the Billboard Hot Country Songs and Billboard Global 200. Anyone who listens will understand the depth of the song and understand how it fits into the story.

My whole family was excited to screen TOY STORY 5 because we have been there from the beginning in 1995. Every adventure that Woody, Buzz, and eventually Jessie experienced, we have been there time and time again. It is also a permanent fixture in our home entertainment library. How could anyone not be? Woody and Buzz started out rough but came to be the most loyal of friends, teaching everyone that differences are no barrier to becoming friends. Especially in this group of very, very different friends. From dinosaurs, to Potato Heads, to slinky dogs and Bo Peep, Andy and now Bonnie proves that adventure brings everyone along.

The premise of technology interfering with play is something many parents and grandparents can understand. I remember sharing a tablet with my granddaughter when she was young as a teaching tool; she was hooked immediately. The good news is that her parents and I learned quickly to regulate it so that she didn’t forget her play-friends, and she still does. Lily starts off wanting to control every part of Bonnie’s life, and it is up to Jessie, Woody, and Buzz, along with old friends and new, to show that the two can co-exist.

Once again, we are all invited into the world of toys, and it is a wonderful place to be. Does it hold the same charm as previous storylines? Maybe a little less, but it doesn’t stop from loving every moment of time together with family, experiencing the understanding that has come from all the TOY STORY films. What I truly appreciate is that the voice cast from the original came back while welcoming new characters like Smarty Pants, who had us laughing so much. It goes without saying that Pixar brought the color and life on full blast, as anyone would expect them to.

This is for the entire family, so gather up and spend time with old friends who are making new friends. The charm is back, the magic is beautiful, and these friendships are forever.

In the end – the battle for playtime begins!

THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently in theatres from writer/director Jon Favreau and Walt Disney Studios are the characters created by George Lucas, and from the series The Mandalorian comes the epic film THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU.

Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and Grogu are now working with the New Republic to track and capture Imperial warlords from a deck of cards held by Ward (Sigourney Weaver). Back from a mission, Ward wants the Mandalorian to go to the Hutt twins, who have information about the next warlord, Commander Coin (Jonny Coyne).

Once in front of the Hutt twins, they want to trade the information in exchange for the safe return of their nephew Rotta (voiced by Jeremy Allen White) on Shakari. Agreeing, Djarin and Grogu make their way to the planet only to discover that Rotta is revered in the fighting pits. Not believing that the Mandalorian is there to rescue him, things take a turn that puts Djarin, Grogu, and Rotta in a very dangerous situation. It is only when they escape that it comes to their attention that they just left the commander!

Now, Djarin and Grogu are in even more danger as the Hutts want him punished for not seeing their contract through. Leaving Grogu in the hands of Anzelians’ (Shirley Henderson), Djarin takes on the Hutt twins only to be hurt. Never fear, Grogu knows what to do, and when it's all said and done, the Hutts have no clue who they are up against. That’s what happens when you fight for good and have friends who have your back!

Pascal, as the Mandalorian, brings his small-screen persona to the big screen, and it works. The relationship between Djarin and Grogu has become stronger, especially since his little ward has learned many new abilities. Pascal continues to bring his character such growth and the conscience to not do things just for the sake of money. Even the moment of his helmet’s removal, it doesn’t change his reason for working with the New Republic. I don’t know how many more films or series that Pascal does, but he has cemented himself in this character.

Weaver as Ward is part of the New Republic and keeps sending the Mandalorian on missions to capture, if he can, Imperial warlords. I actually thought it was so cool to see Weaver take on such a strong role and to see her in the ‘air’ because there has never been a time when I didn’t think sitting in the seat of an X-wing wouldn’t be the coolest. Coyne as Commander Coin, although his role is small, set the pace for the story to move forward.

White as the voice of Rotta is a very interesting character in that he is the son of the deceased Jabba the Hutt. Nothing like his father, he is up against and Aunt and Uncle who want him to return home. The relationship that comes about between Djarin, Grogu, and Rotta is very cool to watch come to fruition. Henderson as the Anzelians’ is nothing short of hilarious. I love the way they talk and am thrilled they have a bigger role in the film.

Other cast include Hemky Madera as Commander Barro, Cullen Douglas as Prefect Nobah, Stephen Henderson as Gatori, Steve Blum as Garazeb Orrelios, Matthew Willig as Hogsbreth, Martin Scorsese as Hugo Durant.

Walt Disney Studios continues to bring quality programming to kids and kids at heart. Home of the most beloved animated features, including SNOW WHITE, PINOCCHIO, and SLEEPING BEAUTY, to name a few, is what keeps families coming back for more. To see what is currently playing in theatres, please visit www.movies.disney.com for their At Home titles!

THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU is such a family film that, of course, I took the family! We had such a good time cheering, laughing, and awwwww’ing at our favorite cute little big-eared Grogu. The story starts immediately with where Djarin and Grogu are in their lives and what they are capable of as a pair. The Mandalorian makes it clear that he may be a bounty hunter, but there are still lines he doesn’t cross. Grogu is still full of mischief yet, as the story moves along, it is clear that what he has learned is of help to all.

For Star Wars fans, the film is filled with everything one would want to see in a two-hour film. Action, ships, space, planets, and creatures that are both memorably seasoned and characters that are new. There isn’t a moment that isn't worthy of being part of the Star Wars universe. Favreau has seen to that with the way he kept the film focused, cinematically beautiful, with a look and feel of every Star Wars film.

That is what is bringing audiences into theatres to see THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU. It feels as if we never left the galaxy far, far away because it feels so near, near to our hearts.  

In the end – they are part of the New Republic!

Final Day of CinemaCon 2026 with Paramount and Disney

 

Jeri Jacquin

It is the final day of CinemaCon here in Las Vegas and jumping right in this morning after a late night is Paramount and Disney.

David Ellison, Paramount Skydance CEO, took the stage to talk about the acquisition of Warner Bros, saying that the goal with combining the companies is to release 30 films across them both in a year. He says that Paramount is looking at a 45-day window for theatrical releases and streaming release after 90 days.

The first film up is James Mangold’s THE HIGH SIDE and CALL OF DUTY films, although no release date yet. Also in the hopper is STAR TREK, G.I. JOE, TRANSFORMERS, WORLD WAR Z (Yaaaaassss!), PARANORMAL ACTIVITY, POSESSION, LONGLEGS (Another Yaaaaaas!), and JACKASS.

The big announcement, however, is that TOP GUN 3 with Tom Cruise is in development. Along with GET LIFE, THE NAUGHTY LIST, and the Korean action film THE GANGSTER, THE COP, THE DEVIL, with James Wan’s English remake.

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG 4 has James Marsden and Tika Sumpter showing the first footage via video of the fourth in the series. Look for Sonic, Knuckles, Shadow and Amy along with my family’s favorite Jim Carrey as Dr. Robotnik. Especially when Robotnik screams, “Robotnik…Saves…World!”

If you are wondering about the Turtles in a Half Shell, Seth Rogan lets the audience know they are working on the next film. I have a grandson who is waiting, dudes, get on that!

Love the A QUIET PLACE films? Then you’ll be thrilled to know that a part 3 is on its way. Krasinski is scouting locations, but did not reveal much else. Now that’s not cool, dude, still excited about it though!

CALL OF DUTY brings a short teaser with director Peter Berg sending his regards, mentioning that Taylor Sheridan is also working on the film. “Taylor and I are both very attached to the special operations community.” That, translated, means the film is going to be intense. Release date is June 30, 2028.

James Cameron gets into the docu-music genre with the 3D Billie Eilish concert film HIT ME HARD AND SOFT. Speaking about the film is a theatrical experience; he expresses that he used tools that he didn’t even have for the AVATAR movies.

SCARY MOVIE 6, which has sprinkles of it around Caesar’s Palace, has Shawn Wayans and Anna Faris talking about their R-rated comedy. This time, they are out to parody GET OUT, WEAPONS, and other films. This time, Ghostface gets a big, ummm, appendage in his gullet, and the ‘Wazzzzaaaap!’ makes a return. Johnny Knoxville intros his new film JACKASS film showing all his intros but adding this time a new cast member, Larry. Steve-O is also there. Of course, there is going to be a popcorn bucket being designed for the film, and all I can think of is that everyone is going to want one, at least those of us who love JACKASS.

For the family, Paramount hasn’t forgotten them at all. The lineup includes PAW PATROL: The Dino Movie with music from The Backstreet Boys and ANGRY BIRDS 3 (and parents love it too!) with Jason Sudeikis. Both of these are the reasons families go to the theatres, because it may be for kids, but adults have a great time as well.

Not to be outdone with musical guests in the films, ‘Sabotage’ by The Beastie Boys rolls out for the film STREET FIGHTER. Bringing a trailer for the film, Eric Andre, Cody Rhodes, and the cast appear on stage looking as badass as they want to be. Phil Simms hits the stage to talk about the film MR. IRRELEVANT: The John Tuggle Story. Starring David Corenswet of SUPERMAN fame, the film is definitely going to be tissue-worthy.

Director David Ayer is back directing THE HEART OF THE BEAST about an ex-special forces soldier and the dog served beside him. Brad Pitt stars in the film of survival and loyalty between the two with, “One last mission. I’m not going to let you die out here.”

Are you ready for the holidays already? Ti West brings video to talk EBENEZER: A Christmas Carol. Johnny Depp once again comes to CinemaCon and this time says the Dickens story has made his obsessed since he was a kid. The trailer shows Depp doing what he does best, embracing a character with a darkness that only he can do. The film also stars Ian McKellen.

Depp says, “When I was approached by Ti West [director], my first thought was there’s no one who can do it as well as Alastair Sim (1951) did. It’s a magical performance. But, then I thought, that’s no reason not to attempt something. I think Ti really did something very special.”

Director Gina Prince-Blythewood brings CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE with the cast of Chiwetel Ejiofor, Damson Idris, Thuso Mbedu, Amandla Stenberg, and Regina King. Viola Davis also stars as Mama Agba in a struggle of an African kingdom without magic. I think it’s cool looking!

As CinemaCon is famous for, that is keeping me on the edge of my seat. Walt Disney Studios is the final presentation, and I’m here for two things in particular. Can you guess? Well, lets get to some of the other films first.

With THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2 mere weeks away (hurry up!!!), a video message from star Anne Hathaway thanks theatre owners and announces, “Twenty years later, we are back!” Yes, and looking good girl!

Yes, this is the biggest reason I am here right now, Jon Favreau, writer and director, arrives to talk about the how the original STAR WARS film made an impression on him. The trailer for THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU shows Pedro Pascal’s Mando, doing what he does best and is moving on to his bounty hunting. As a STAR WARS fan since I was 16 (do the math kids), I haven’t been this excited for another installment in a long time. THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU is due in theatres in May. Are you ready?

Another film that has become so iconic and generational has a new story with TOY STORY 5. Buzz and the gang are going through growing pains as Bonnie begins to turn away from the toys to become tech savvy, but a Lily Pad. Of course, Woody is going to come help his friends. On stage, to the cheer of the audience, are Tim Allen and Tom Hanks. Tim Allen says, “We love playing Buzz and Woody, and we can’t believe how lucky we are to be able to continue telling these stories that keep people moving from infinity to beyond!” A duo that lives in our hearts.

In 2016, audiences were introduced to a young girl named Moana and the curly-haired Maui. The animated MOANA film was a massive hit, and now, in 2026, the live-action MOANA film is coming to the screen. Returning as Maui himself, Dwayne Johnson, makes his way to the stage. It is so sweet that he says his performance is inspired by his grandfather. Also joining Johnson is Catherine Laga’aia, Moana herself. Johnson says of the power of the film, “The hero of our story is not a princess; she’s a warrior. All men of all ages, we should empower, support, and champion all women. That’s what real masculinity looks like.” The trailer looks amazing!

Ridley Scott's film THE DOG STARS is right up my alley. Jackob Elordi, Margaret Qually, and Josh Brolin star in this story about the world after a pandemic (sounds eerie, right?) Hig, played by Elordi, lives along with his dog and now has a friend in Brolin’s character. When they get a weird radio transmission, off they go to find out what it means.

The film WHALEFALL looks totally amazing! It is the story of a scuba diver looking for his father, who gets, well, swallowed by an 80-foot whale and only has an hour of oxygen. I’m just grateful it isn’t a shark. Director Brian Duffield and star Austin Abrams hit theatres in October.

HEXED stars Hailee Steinfeld and Rashida Jones as a teenage girl and her mom who discover magic and a secret world that is going to turn their lives into chaos. The animated film is due out in November, just in time for the season.

The band is back together! Taking the stage are the voices of Manny in the form of Ray Romano, Diego in the body of Denis Leary, and Ellie looking lovely as Queen Latifah for ICE AGE: Boiling Point. Now, as wonderful as that is, and it is – it is baby Scratch that just took my heart. Let's hope Scratch jr. has more luck than his parental unit.

Dropping like a bomb is Kevin Feige taking over the stage to talk about-yes-AVENGERS:Doomsday.  He also brings news of INFINITY VISION. Infinity Vision sets a new benchmark for theatrical presentation, certifying auditoriums that meet rigorous technical standards, including a focus on: The largest screens for maximum scale, laser projection for superior brightness and clarity, and premium audio formats for fully immersive sound. Translated folks? That means AVENGERS: Doomsday is going to blow us all away. Added gasoline to the fire, directors Anthony and Joe Russo come to the stage. As always, there is only one person to take their thunder – Robert Downey Jr., who gets the audience going, teasing that he would love to give away “37,000 spoilers” but shows ‘The Trailer of Doom’. Good choice!

The trailer shows the Fantastic Four, Gambit, Shang-Chi, Mystique/Yelena, Thor and Dr. Doom. But wait, there’s more because that’s not all, and not to be outdone, Chris Evans walks on stage and when asked about returning to his role, he says, “I’d only come back if there was a real reason. The Avengers really needed Steve Rogers.”

Well, that’s it! CinemaCon 2026 is in the books. The studios have upped their game, bringing announcements, surprises, and everything theatre owners want to bring to the audiences that visit their seats. The movie theatre is still the most epic place to see film, and the stories, directors, actors, and studios are working hard to make that experience everything we want it to be. Until then, see you next year! 

It is the Return of THE EMPORERS NEW GROOVE

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently on 4K Ultra HD, Digital and Bluray to celebrate a groovy 25^th anniversary from director Mark Dindal and Walt Disney Studios is the hilarious tale of THE EMPORERS NEW GROOVE.

In a kingdom lived Emperor Kuzco (David Spade), a very narcissistic, self-indulged ruler who only thinks of himself. He also keeps an eye on his sneaky assistant Yzma (Eartha Kitt) and her side-kick Kronk (Patrick Warburton). The emperor’s birthday is just around the corner and he knows exactly what he wants. Walking from the local village is Pacha (John Goodman), a good man who lives a simple life with his wife and children. Receiving a summons from the emperor leads him down the mountain to the palace.

Walking through the palace halls, Pacha comes face to face with Kuzco and is in shock when discovering what the summons was about. The spoiled emperor intends to take over the very hill that has been in Pacha’s family for longer than anyone can remember! Knowing there isn’t a lot he can do about it, Pacha returns home to figure out a way to tell his family.

In the meantime, Yzma has pushed her emperor too far making royal decisions without his permission. So, Kuzco decides its time to downsize and that Yzma should retire. This doesn’t go well with Yzma and she decides that its time to take steps. Relying on Kronk to help was her first mistake and at a dinner, Yzma’s plan hatches as Kuzco has gone from two legs to four! When the llama ends up in Pacha’s yard, it is time for the two to journey back to the palace and do whatever it takes to get the kingdom back.  

Spade as the voice of Kuzco is the voice I hear in my head when I think “Boom baby!” amongst other iconic lines from the film. He is sheer perfection as the narcissistic and shady emperor giving such life to this animated character. Kuzco may be those horrible things but good grief Spade gives it all such hilarity no matter how many times I see this film. Spade gets the chance to voice a character is as bad as he wants to be and it works from start to finish.

Goodman as Pacha is such a kind and loving man who just wants to take care of his family. It is a tad heart tugging when he realizes what Kuzco has in mind for his generational home. Goodman’s voice lends the opposite of the main character with compassion, even when it could have been easier to walk away with Kuzco needed help. Instead, he believes in kindness and another way, even if Yzma is hot on their trail.

Kitt as Yzma is another delicious voice in the film with her ability to bring everything crazy (both good and bad) into this character. This had to be absolute fun for her and Yzma is now an iconic Disney character that my whole family loves. Yes, she isn’t very nice but karma is waiting just around the corner for her. Warburton as Kronk, as much as we love all the characters, has a special ‘favorite’ place in our family’s heart. The scene where he is walking along the wall doing his musical Mission Impossible theme, is something we all still do. Also, who doesn’t squeakity-squeak-squeak to the local squirrel population.

Other cast include Kellyann Kelso as Chaca, Eli Linnetz as Tipo, Stephen Anderson as Ipi, Bob Bergen as Bucky, Patti Deutsch as the grub waitress and Wendie Malick as Chicha.

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

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 Deleted Scenes, Audio Commentary, Music Videos, Featurettes: The Research Trip, Character Voices, Creating Computer Generated Images and The Emperor’s Got Game, and Theatrical Trailers for THE EMPEROR’S NEW GROOVE.

This film is on of Disney’s stories that doesn’t get as much accolade as it should, and it absolutely should. It is fun, hilarious, charming, full of adventure, and colorful with a cast that absolutely killed it. The best part of Disney’s animated films is that watching them again and again (and again times a million) shows how wonderful we hold these stories. I have to say I’m not a fan of the Disney live-action films because it takes something special away from the artistry that comes from the animated films.

It is hard to believe that I watched THE EMPEROR’S NEW GROOVE with my children only to have them now share with their children. Also amazing is that all of us still laugh as much now as we did when the film was released in 2000. The release in 4K UHD just brings the crispness and vibrant colors out even more and, if you have a cool large flatscreen, means you can have more people over for a Disney movie night.

Spade, Goodman, Kitt and Warburton, along with director Dindal, brought magic 25 years ago, and that magic is still being felt these years later. Gather up the family because it is time to find out what the fun is all about with a little BOOM BABY!!

In the end – it is all about HIM!

LILO & STITCH Land Home

 

Jeri Jacquin

Currently stream now and coming to 4K UHD, Bluray and DVD from director Dean Fleischer Camp and Walt Disney Studios is the live action story of LILO & STITCH.

Lilo (Maia Kealoha) is a young Hawaiian girl who lives with and is being raised by older sister Nani (Sydney Agudong) since their parents’ death. Lilo has a tendency to find trouble where ever it may present itself and sometimes is brings Nani the same number of problems. Catching attention about it all is Mrs. Kekoa (Tia Carrere), a social worker who does understand that Nani is struggling to raise her little sister. After a home visit, Nani is informed that a supervisor social worker, Mr. Bubbles (Courtney B. Vance) will be visiting in a week so its time to get things together for both Lilo and Nani.

In another part of the unknown universe, Dr. Jookiba (Zach Galifianakis in human form) is in trouble with the United Galactic Federation for creating a monster called 626 as the Grand Councilwoman (Hannah Waddingham) makes it clear that neither the doctor nor the creature are welcome and are banished. Well, 626 has other plans and manages to escape! There is no other choice than to send creator Dr. Jookiba and earth “expert” Agent Pleakley (Billy Magnussen in human form) after the creature.

Back on earth, 626 has landed and made its way to the local animal shelter where no one is sure quiet what is in a cage! Following closely behind are Jookiba and Pleakley who have now chosen human forms to start the search. Lilo meanwhile has had a bit of trouble with dancing, school, other girls her age and finds solace at the local animal shelter where she meets and falls in love with 626. No one can believe she would want him but – she does! Nani isn’t the least bit happy about it especially since neighbor Tutu (Amy Hill) encouraged it.

Having to take Lilo to work with her new friend, even fellow surfer David (Kaip Dudoit) isn’t quite sure what the creature could be classified as. After a night of craziness, Nani is back looking for a job and Lilo meets Mr. Bubbles who shows an interested in the newly named Stitch. In the bushes lurking are Jookiba and Pleakley who are under pressure from the Grand Councilwoman to catch Stitch. Lilo has found kinship with Stitch and she does her best to teach him what its like to have family and how to try to fit in on earth.

As things become more chaotic, Lilo and Nani realize that there is no way they can live without the one and only Stich!

Kealoha as Lilo is a very charming little girl that plays amazingly opposite of the blue screened creature name Stitch. It does look like she is having a wonderful time and, as a kid, who wouldn’t! Her smile and laugh light up the screen and even when giving Stitch side-eye, she does so like a pro. Agudong as Nani is a sister who is missing out on her own life goals as a Marine Biologist but wants to be responsible for her sister and all that comes with it. Trying to work and take care of Lilo is really difficult for an adult, let alone a girl who isn’t even out of her teens yet. Agudong is also sweet in the role of a girl feeling she has to make a choice and neither one is good in her eyes.

Galifianakis as Dr. Jookiba takes on a human form once he is on earth. Wanting to go after Stitch for his own selfish purpose, he is under the control of the United Galactic Federation to come up with the goods. His frustration comes when he realizes that Stitch is smarter than even he thought. Galifianakis gets into stitches of trouble and it is pretty funny. Sidekick Magnussen as Pleakley is the earth “expert” comic relief of the two. Watching him embrace everything on earth, he wants to make sure that it stays exactly as it is without Jookiba blowing things up every chance he gets. These two actors together are comedy on their own!

Vance as Bubbles is a social worker in disguise on the lookout for strange happenings – and that includes Stitch. Vance is calm and cool, even when things get a little crazy. Carrere as Mrs. Kekoa the social worker seems to understand Nani’s predicament and is empathetic but still has to do her job. Carrere was actually the voice of Nani in the animated version of LILO & STITCH. Hill as Tutu is the funny neighbor that has her own way of doing things. She looks out for Nani and Lilo as she can and wants the best for them. When weird things happen, Tutu is the one that doesn’t seem to think any of it is strange!

Finally Stitch – well, let’s just say we think he’s worth every moment of fun!

Shout outs to Chris Sanders as the voice of Stitch. A bit of trivia for everyone, Sanders created the characters and directed the animated LILO & STITCH along with Dean DeBlois. Also, the luau manager is played by Jason Scott Lee who was the original voice of David in the animated film. Waddingham as the voice of the Grand Councilwoman makes it clear that Stitch can’t be allowed to go willy-nilly causing a ruckus.

Walt Disney Studios continues to bring quality programming to kids and kids at heart. Home of the most beloved animated features including SNOW WHITE, PINOCCHIO and SLEEPING BEAUTY to name a few is what keeps families coming back for more. To see what is currently available please visit www.movies.disney.com.

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

Bonus Features include Deleted Scenes, ‘Ohana Means Family: Making LILO & STITCH, Drawn to Life, Bloopers, Scenes with Stitch that include Escape to Earth, Feeding Fish, Hula Performance, Stitch Gets Names, Bath Time and Watch This!

LILO & STICH as a live action is still charming, funny and will make a nice night at the movies for the family. There is laughter, color, outrageousness and everything the 2002 animated film had to offer. Families will have no problems having a good time and those who are fans of the animated version will see a few changes and recognize a few voices quite easily.

Kids will enjoy the funny, the antics, the adventure and that’s what they want to see. That’s what we all want to see which is what makes the Disney animated versions of all their releases amazing. Yes, there are serious moments but they only last a moment and then on with the laughs and charm.

Comic Con is this week so look for LILO & STITCH and have a bit of fun in the sun with families getting a chance to hang out together! In the meantime, enjoy just the time to gather up the kids, grandkids, oh well even the kids at heart and popcorn up for LILO & STITCH!

In the end – hold onto your coconuts!

SNOW WHITE

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from director Marc Webb and Walt Disney Studios is the live-action story of SNOW WHITE.

Snow White (Rachel Zegler) is a young girl who has spent years at the hands of her evil step-mother the Evil Queen (Gal Gadot). One day while scrubbing her usual floor, she hears a noise coming from the kitchen and meets Jonathan (Andrew Burnap) who happens to be stealing potatoes. Letting him go, the castle is alerted and the next time she sees him, Jonathan is in the presence of the queen.

Realizing that the people outside the palace need help, Snow White decides to have a talk with the Queen. After that doesn’t go well, the Queen has a nice little chat with her Magic Mirror (Patrick Page) who lets her know that her “fairest of them all” status is in serious jeopardy. Deciding to fix that immediately, she orders the Huntsman (Ansu Kabia) to take Snow White out into the forest, kill her and bring back proof in a box.

Making his choice, Snow White runs away and finds herself in the house of the Seven Dwarfs. Some are not happy about her presence and other want to help her all they can but she believes that looking for her father is best. Making her way through the forest, she meets Jonathan once again and his band of followers but their meeting is cut short as palace guards are looking for her.

The Queen decides to take matters into her own hands with an apple but Snow White and her new friends aren’t about to take it lying down!

Zegler as Snow White is causing a lot of controversy but I’m betting her portrayal of this iconic princess is not going to please the larger population. For me, there is nothing that says Snow White in her portrayal and I don’t have a problem saying so. I mean you can put her in a yellow and blue dress but it doesn’t make one a Disney princess. She sings and I hear it – just not buying it. She once commented that the original 1937 SNOW WHITE was “weird” and all I can say is that the 2025 film is exactly that – weird.  

Burnap as Jonathan is a bit of a cross between Kristoff (FROZEN) and Ken (BARBIE). If you are looking for a prince, you won’t find him here. Instead, writer Erin Wilson decided to go in the opposite direction and completely remove the crown. There wasn’t enough substance in his storyline for me to find this character interesting. Kabia as the Huntsman is a good man being asked to do a bad thing. Page as the voice of the Magic Mirror is so cool with his deep voice and only one answer to the same question.

I know I’m going to get some flack here but Gadot as the Evil Queen made me laugh. Her wickedness is on point and Gadot may not be a singer but she took control and it was hilarious. It reminded me of Melissa McCarthy playing Ursula in another meh live-action remake of THE LITTLE MERMAID. Gadot looks like she is having a blast and doesn’t care one flick of her pointy nails what anyone thinks and I’m all for it.

As for the Seven Dwarfs, it seemed only three got the top roles and that’s Doc, Grumpy and Dopey. Was I impressed with the special effects? Not in the slightest.

Other cast includes Hadley Fraser as the King, Lorena Andrea as the Queen, George Appleby as Quigg, Colin Carmichael as Farno, Samuel Baxter as Scythe, Idriss Kargbo as Bingley, Jaih Betote as Norwich, Dujonna Figt as Maple and Jimmy Johnston as Finch.

The Seven Dwarfs voices include Jeremy Swift as Doc, Tituss Burgess as Bashful, Andrew Feldman as Dopey, Martin Klebba as Grumpy, Jason Kravits as Sneezy, George Salazar as Happy and Andy Grotelueschen as Sleepy.

Buckle up because this is my opinion of the film – ghastly. In their attempt to be “modern”, Disney has allowed the destruction of an iconic animated story that was always meant to entertain and delight. It isn’t the first time that Disney has done it and, sadly, it won’t be the last which makes me once again believe in a 75-year moratorium on remakes, reimaging’s – blah, blah, blah so that those of us who treasure these films can die off happy.

First, if they wanted to modernize Snow White then why not have her recognizing the abuse and gaslighting of the Evil Queen and get away to start a new life. No, they have her scrubbing floors still (and the same floor if you watch carefully). Having Snow White break free would have been more entertaining. Nope, instead, she ends up at the house of seven guys and within minutes she talks them into cleaning their house? Yeah, let’s talk reality of that here for a minute, shall we?

Second, the writer has traded a prince for a criminal because, apparently, all good girls like bad boys. I mean that’s the message it is sending. Why can’t there be a prince (and no the original prince didn’t stalk Snow White Ms. Zegler)? Nope, we get a thief who creeps around the forest with his buddies stealing. He meets Snow and suddenly he wants to be a good guy because she makes him see the error of his ways? Good gawd please stop – I’ll take a “stalking” prince any day.

Next, the songs sound so familiar, I mean oddly familiar. While waiting for the film to start, the theatre piped in songs from the film and I actually heard one song that sounded like it was from MOANA. The only song I just loved was Gadot’s staircase stage production because she made it fun to watch and it did make people laugh.

Finally, I took my 10-year-old granddaughter to see the film and within 10 minutes she leaned over to me and said, “Naynay, I’m disappointed and bored”. Keeping my own feelings inside I replied, “well, lets wait for the dwarfs, they should be fun.” Okay, so I had hope for the disillusioned kid who waiting so long to see the film and wanted so much more. After the film was over, we spoke about it and her list of reasons for not caring for it were longer than my own. Her biggest disappointment was in the change of Dopey, she said she will “never, ever” accept that change.

All of this being said, I do feel that this ‘version’ of SNOW WHITE is for the kids young enough not to know that sometimes adults need to be told no!  Because kids, just because you can do a thing doesn’t mean the rest of us think you should.

In the end – the fairest of them all?

 

 

 

 

MUFASA: The Lions King

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to theatres this Friday from director Barry Jenkins and Walt Disney Studios comes the story of two brothers and one MUFASA: The Lion King.

Mufasa (Aaron Pierre) is a young cub who, after an accident, finds himself alone in the world. He meets Taka (Kelvin Harrison Jr.) after rescuing him and convinces his mother Eshe (Thandie Newton) to take him in. The one lion who isn’t happy is Obasi (Lennie James) who sees Mufasa as a stray that needs to be away from him son.

As Mufasa grows, so does the teachings of Eshe! He has learned to be still and reach out to the vastness of his world. He and Taka remain friends and when the pride is under attack, Obasi sees that Mufasa is a force to be reckoned with. Mufasa is put to the test again when a pride of white lions led by Kiros is destroying prides and taking everything for his own. Obasi tells Mufasa that he must take Taka and keep the bloodline.

On the road they meet Sarabi (Tiffany Boone) and her trusted bird Zazu (Preston Nyman). Agreeing to continue on, they also meet Rafiki (John Kani) who has a way about him that is intriguing to Mufasa. That doesn’t mean the white lions aren’t hot on their trail. When they arrive at their destination, Mufasa attempts to make the animals understand that they must fight Obasi together or lose their beautiful home.

Pierra as Mufasa lends his voice to the orphaned lion who is raised by Eshe after becoming lost to his own family. His voice gives us the feeling of loss, of growing up, of Mufasa finding his place in the plains of Africa and of becoming a leader he was always meant to be. Harrison Jr. lends his voice to Taka, beginning as a young cub who befriends Mufasa and sees him as a brother, to having a complicated relationship with his father. Taka is also attempting to discover where he fits in and coming to terms with his own fears.

James as Obasi believes being a leader is to parade around being judgmental and lying in the sun while everyone else does the heavy lifting. The one thing Obasi is sure of is keeping the bloodline when it all comes under attack. Newton as Eshe is a loving substitute mother for Mufasa and sees potential and encourages it when no one else in his adoptive pride does. Everything she believes about Mufasa is based on his instincts and receptiveness to learning.

Boone as Sarabi is a princess in her pride but having been chased off, she teams up with Mufasa and Taka along with her own personal winged protection in Zazu. She is strong willed and perfectly capable of handling situations as they arise. Nyman as Zazu is more confident than anyone else and has no problem saying so. He is also quite funny and charming in his own right.

Kani as Rafiki is the calmest of the new “pride” that has banded together. He knows what he knows and doesn’t get ruffled by much. Getting Mufasa, Taka, Sarabi and Zazu to Malaylay is his mission and they honestly couldn’t have made it without him. I just love the very straight forward fun Kami brings to Rafiki and its all bundle around such love.

Other cast include Billy Eichner as Timon, Seth Rogen as Pumbaa, Anika Noni Rose as Afia, Keith David as Masego, Blue Ivy Carter as Kiara, Tho Somolu as Taka cub, Kagiso Lediga as young Rafiki, Donald Glover as Simba.

MUFASA: The Lion King should do well at the box office because it is being released during a time when kids are out of school and families are looking for holiday fun together. The small lions are charming and it’s nice to see Pumbaa and Timon again as they are still as wild and silly as ever. The adult lions show the relationships between prides, being a stray, brotherhood, belief, and what can happen when power corrupts absolutely.

The live-action special effects give the animals the look of reality with big paws, big claws and flowing fur mixed in with emotion in their eyes and strength in their voices. All of that lends itself to telling the story of Mufasa and how he became the unexpected King of Pride Rock. Jenkins and Disney seem to have taken great pains to make sure that the original 1994 THE LION KING story meshes in with MUFASA: The Lion King and that makes all the difference.

So, gather up your own pride this holiday weekend and return to Pride Rock for the story we didn’t know about MUFASA: The Lion King.

In the end – from orphan and outsider to King!

 

 

 

The Holiday Sparkle Begins with a WISH

 

Jeri Jacquin

In theatres to begin the holiday season from directors Chris Buck, Fawn Veerasunthorn and Walt Disney Studios comes a big WISH.

Asha (Ariana DeBose) is a young teen girl who lives on an island in the kingdom of Rosas. Ruled by King Magnifico (Chris Pine) and the lovely Queen Amaya (Angelique Cabral), this is no ordinary kingdom. After studying sorcery, the King is able to grant heart’s desires by collecting wishes and protecting them. He does hold ceremonies where he chooses wishes to grant.

The one thing that Asha truly wants is for her grandfather Sabino’s (Victor Garber) to have his wish granted. He has waited so long that Asha believes if she can become an apprentice of King Magnifico, he can possibly help. When Asha is interviewed, she actually sees who the King truly is and is saddens her. She feels it best to tell her grandfather and mother Sakina (Natasha Rothwell) that the wish isn’t going to happen.

Knowing the king is deceiving the people of Rosas, Asha goes to a special spot on the island and makes her own wish. Quickly, a ball of light lands causing quite a stir and upsets Magnifico! Asha names the light and Star gives the forest animals the ability to talk, along with her goat Valentino (Alan Tudyk). Magnifico sees the light as a threat and turns to a dark magic to find who is responsible for what is happening.

That’s when Asha and Star call up her friends Dahlia (Jennifer Kumiyama), Bazeema (Della Saba), Dario (Jon Rudnitsky), Hal (Niko Vargas) and Safi (Ramy Youssef), along with the people of Rosas to stand against a power that could destroy it all.

DeBose as Asha lends her voice to a strong teen character who learns that what she believes to be true is not exactly the same as what is true. Disappointed in learning that someone she looks up to is human after all, she takes it upon herself to bring the true meaning of Rosas and the people together with the help of a little ball of light.

Pine as King Magnifico starts out as quite a showman but it is what is behind the wall in the top of the castle that shows the truth. Pine gives his character the voice of a leader who isn’t all quite in favor of the good of the people. Cabral as Queen Amaya has supported her husband but becomes suspicious of what is happening when he turns Amaya away. She tries to help the King find his path and has no problem standing up for what is right.

Tudyk as Valentino is the comic relief of the animal kingdom. Once he finds his voice, he doesn’t hesitate to use it and I am all for it.  Kumiyama, Saba, Rudnitsky, Vargas and Youssef are the supporting characters who are just delightful to watch. The group shows exactly what friendship is all about and also stand up for what is right.

Other cast include Harvey Guillen as Gabo and Evan Peters as Simon.

Walt Disney Studios continues to bring quality programming to kids and kids at heart. Home of the most beloved animated features including SNOW WHITE, PINOCCHIO and SLEEPING BEAUTY to name a few is what keeps families coming back for more. To see what is coming from Walt Disney Studios please visit. www.movies.disney.com.   

WISH is a sweet way to start the holiday season because it is definitely the time of year when wishes are being made! The story is one of family, love, loyalty, friendship and the kind heartedness of a young girl. She wants what is best for her family and knows that she can not change things without the help of her loyal friends.

Star is the silent star of the film with the lightness, playfulness and steadfastness Disney has come to be generationally known for. There is silliness mixed into it all and a togetherness when it comes time for the final confrontation.

We saw the film as a family and really had a wonderful time together. That’s what is so much fun about the holidays, going to the theatre together to sit back and be thoroughly entertained from start to finish. I have a feeling there is going to be many a ‘star’ added to kids Christmas lists, or maybe even a few adults lists as well and there is nothing wrong with that.

In the end – be careful what you wish for!

 

 

 

 

 

HAUNTED MANSION Spooks on Bluray

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to 4K Ultra HD, Bluray, DVD and Digital from director Justin Simien and Walt Disney Studios is the story of the iconic HAUNTED MANSION.

Ben (LaKeith Stanfield) is a paranormal tour guide who doesn’t believe in the paranormal which makes his job more difficult. He does it as a way to deal with the grief and loss of his wife Alyssa. Meanwhile, Gabbie (Rosario Dawson) and young son Travis (Chase W. Dillon) are dealing with their own new beginning moving into a mansion that needs a lot of work.

Immediately it becomes clear that the house is haunted keeping Gabbie and Travis on their toes and looking for help. Father Kent (Owen Wilson) tracks down Ben to ask him to come to the mansion and photograph what is happening using a special lens he invented. At first Ben has no motivation to go but money has a strange way of changing a mind.

Arriving at the mansion, Ben goes along to get along and it isn’t until he gets back to his own home that something has decided to move in too! Ben and Father Kent seek out Professor Bruce Davis (Danny DeVito), a historian who knows a bit about the house and its history. Deciding that the only way to find out what the house and its eerie occupants wants is to bring Harriet (Tiffany Haddish), a psychic in for a séance. 

Hidden in the attic is Madame Leota (Jamie Lee Curtis) who, with the help of Harriet, decide it’s time to take on the specter that has been collecting spirits. Getting an object that belonged to the very angry ghost Crump (voiced by Jared Leto), Ben and Father Kent track down something that will could change the game in their favor.

But they are running out of time as the Hatbox Ghost has made his plans very clear and it doesn’t look good for the living!

Stanfield as Ben is a man dealing with grief issues. Taking the job of photographing what is inside the mansion gives him a paycheck and that’s all he is interested in. Unfortunately, the ghosts have other plans and Ben finds himself unraveling a mystery. Stanfield is a solid, if not slightly shaken, character who begins to believe in what is happening and all in to fix it.

Wilson as Father Kent seeks out Ben for a little spiritual guidance and boy is the priest going to need it. He believes without a doubt that things are twisted and crazy in the mansion and doesn’t mind finding the right people to deal with it. Wilson is hilarious but then again, I’d expect nothing less. DeVito as Professor Davis is all in wanting to be part of every step of the investigation. Always curious about the mansion, now is his shot and DeVito makes sure his character gets it.

Dawson as Gabbie doesn’t seem to affected by the ghosts, almost accepting them even though they are making her a tad uneasy. Gabbie’s fright level never seems to get to hyped up so that makes her the sane one out of the bunch. Dillion as Travis is not happy with their current living situation and welcomes all the adults into the madness. Each has a part to play and so does young Dillion although his part takes its time.

Big shout out to Curtis as Madame Leota because no one else could have given off the right amount of crazy inside a crystal ball. The last few years has shown that Curtis just plays the roles that look like fun to do and it shows through her characters.

Other cast include Charity Jordan as Alyssa, Hasan Minhaj as the police sketch artist, J.R. Adduci as William Gracey, Creek Wilson as the Mariner Ghost, Ben Bladon as Hatchet Ghost, Lindsay Lamb as The Bride ghost, Fedor Steer as Ezra, Dany Levy as Vic and Winona Ryder as tour guide Pat.

Walt Disney Studios continues to bring quality programming to kids and kids at heart. Home of the most beloved animated features including SNOW WHITE, PINOCCHIO and SLEEPING BEAUTY to name a few is what keeps families coming back for more. To see what is currently available visit www.movies.disney.com.

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

Bonus Features Making Haunted Mansion - Hear from cast, crew and filmmakers about creating this grim grinning adventure based on the world-famous ride. See how the ghosts were "brought to life," what role new technology played, and how the wildly popular attraction inspired the film's design and 999 Happy Haunts - There are 999 Happy Haunts inside the Disney Parks' attraction...but always room for one more! See all the Easter eggs (well, maybe not all of them) where characters big, small, alive, departed, human and otherwise appear in both the movie and the ride.

Also, Deleted Scenes - Take a look at some moments that passed on before the final version of The Haunted Mansion was finished with Carol, 1 Star, Harriet’s House Of Intuition, They Say The Place Is Haunted, Between Realms, Crump Manor, Emergency Baptism, A Good Head For Business, Gag Reel with Who knew making a scary movie could be so funny!

HAUNTED MANSION is proving to be a fun family film and for anyone that remembers the ride as far back as I do, felt more like what I would expect. Although the ‘living’ characters are interesting, for me it was the not-so-living characters that I absolutely love. The ghosts are funny, devious, giggle worthy and intent on making us all jump in the theatre seats.

Director Simien captured the joy of the Haunted Mansion ride and put it on screen with fun, mystery, adventure, a bit of chaos and charm. Three generations sat at the screening and we left talking about our favorite ghosts and that is how the movie going experience should be.

It has been twenty years since the Eddie Murphy version with THE HAUNTED MANSION. The story has been revamped but what goes on in the house and the grounds of the mansion are still filled with specters and a story with bad guys wanting bad things. Turn out the lights, cuddle on the sofa with the family and enjoy the ride!

In the end – home is where the haunt is!

INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY Travels Home

 

Jeri Jacquin

Coming to Digital this week from writer-director James Mangold, Lucasfilm and Walt Disney Studios comes the next adventure from the man we all know as INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY.

It is 1944 and Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) and sidekick Basil Shaw (Toby Jones) are looking for the Lance of Longinus in the French Alps. Also looking for it is Jurgen Voller (Mads Mikkelsen) who tells his superiors the lance is fake. What he does find is a piece of Archimedes’ Dial which allows for time travel. As the Nazi’s try to stop him, Indy does things Indy’s way and escapes with Basil and the piece of the dial.

Years have passed and now Indy is retiring from Hunter College and Marion has left because Indy can not get over the death of their son in the war. Jumping back into his life is Shaw’s daughter and Indy’s god-daughter, Helena (Phoebe Waller-Bridge) and she is looking for the Dial as Indy tells her that although her father wanted it gone, he just put it away and didn’t tell anyone.

Once again, she isn’t the only person looking for the Dial, Voller is back and he has brought the CIA with him. Now posing as Dr. Schmidt to his who he really is, he tells Indy that Helena is responsible for putting antiquities on the black market. Leaving a trail of bodies, Indy is blamed for everything and friend Sallah (John Rhys-Davis) comes to the rescue.

Sallah tells Indy to head to Tangier where once again he must deal with Helena, Voller and meets the young Teddy (Ethann Isidore). When things turn chaotic, Indy and the gang make their way to Greece where Renaldo (Antonio Banderas) helps them dive to retrieve a tablet that could lead them to the Dial’s other half.

With Voller hot on their tale and another escape, Indy, Helena and Teddy look for Archimede’s tomb but something mysterious is amiss. Before they can figure out the mystery, Voller captures Indy and tells of his plan to time travel back to 1939 and why. What truly happens is more than Voller could have imagined and Indy makes the ultimate decision.

Ford as Indy is everything one would expect from our hero that has been in theatres since 1981. The brown fedora and leather jacket wearing, whip carrying, wise-cracking Indy doesn’t show signs that he has changed. Yes, he is older but still adventurous, curious and not about to let Voller be the next guy taking his finds. I enjoyed him as I always have as Indy, especially with the eels.

Waller-Bridge as Helena is not a character I enjoyed, to be honest. She is sneaky, and uses the good memories that Indy has of his god-daughter to get what she wants. Chasing down the Dial, Helena just puts the man she says she cares about in more and more mortal danger and, as an Indy fan, I didn’t appreciate. Helena does make changes in the end as all unruly characters in Indy’s life do.

Mikkelsen as Voller is a man who knows what he wants to do and he’s not about to let anyone get in his way. Fast with a pistol, he manages to show up like a ninja where ever Indy is. His desire to change history is calmly motivating and he never lets his emotions get in the way, well, except for one moment. Once again, I just find Mikkelsen awesome in this role but then again, I love pretty much everything he does.

Isidore as Teddy is the new Short-Round and just as smart. He works with Helena with his sticky fingers but also has the fascination with what Indy is trying to do. I enjoyed his performance and see how this young actor will go far.

Other cast include Shaunette Wilson as Mason, Thomas Kretschmann as Col. Weber, Boyd Holbrook as Klaber, Olivier Richters as Hauke, Martin McDougall as Durkin, Alaa Safi as Rahim, Chase Brown as Larry, Nasser Memarzia as Archimedes and Karen Allen as Marion.

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

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

Bonus Features include The Making of INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY Chapter 1- Prologue – Harrison Ford Leaps back into action as Indiana Jones! Journey to 1944 as this featurette reveals the filmmakers, characters, stunts, locations, and incredible visual effects that make up the thrilling opening of Dial of Destiny. Chapter 2 – New York – Blast off to adventure as James Mangold showcases the re-creation of 1969 Manhattan for the Moon Parade chase. This featurette spotlights Helena as John Williams conducts his beautiful new theme for this compelling character.

Chapter 3 – Morocco – The man in the hat is back! Explore Morocco as this featurette breaks down the white-knuckle stunts of the medina tuk-tuk chase and hotel brawl. Meet Teddy, Indy’s precocious new ally in the hunt for the dial! Chapter 4 – Sicily – Meet Renaldo as he guides our heroes on a perilous underwater treasure hunt! Catch up with Harrison Ford and Phoebe Waller-Bridge on location in Sicily and explore the caverns, traps, and bugs surrounding Archimedes’ tomb!

Finally, Chapter 5 – Finale – This featurette breaks down the thrilling climax to the Indiana Jones series. Cast and filmmakers James Mangold, Kathleen Kennedy, Frank Marshall, Steven Spielberg, and Harrison Ford bid farewell to one of the greatest heroes of all time.

It is the end of the franchise (I hope because anyone replacing Indy just isn’t possible) and he goes out with some happiness in his life. The adventure is everything we have come to expect from Indiana Jones complete with chases, complex characters, mysteries to unravel and all done in the outfit that is all Indiana Jones.

It is time to say goodbye in style and add INDIANA JONES AND THE DIAL OF DESTINY to your home entertainment library. What an amazing way to revisit the adventure again and again!

In the end – history’s greatest hero returns!