Movie Review: The Art of Racing in the Rain

THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN
Release: August 9, 2019
MPAA Rating: PG
Director: Simon Curtis
Screenplay by: Mark Bomback
Based on the novel by Garth Stein
Producers: Neal H. Moritz, Patrick Dempsey, Tania Landau
Cast: Milo Ventimiglia, Amanda Seyfried, Gary Cole, Kathy Baker, Ryan Kiera Armstrong, Martin Donovan and the voice of Kevin Costner

THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN Official Channels
OFFICIAL SITE: TheArtOfRacingInTheRainMovie.com
FACEBOOK: Facebook.com/ArtofRacingMovie
TWITTER: Twitter.com/TheArtOfRacing
INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/ArtofRacingMovie
HASHTAG: #ArtOfRacing

Based on the best-selling novel by Garth Stein, THE ART OF RACING IN THE RAIN is a heartfelt tale narrated by a witty and philosophical dog named Enzo (voiced by Kevin Costner). Through his bond with his owner, Denny Swift (Milo Ventimiglia), an aspiring Formula One race car driver, Enzo has gained tremendous insight into the human condition and understands that the techniques needed on the racetrack can also be used to successfully navigate the journey of life. The film follows Denny and the loves of his life - his wife, Eve (Amanda Seyfried), their young daughter Zoe (Ryan Kiera Armstrong), and ultimately, his true best friend, Enzo.

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The Art of Racing in the Rain is the latest dog movie to hit theaters.  It is unabashedly a pet lover’s film. Any pet will do; dog, cat, chinchilla.  Racing invites those audiences who read the best-selling book by the same title, as well as everyone who has ever seen any incarnation of a pet movie (Marely & Me, Hachi, etc.) and adds to that anyone who enjoys films about human compassion.  Racing is for everyone.   

You don’t have to have a personal investment in pet to appreciate the adorable Enzo’s (the dog) philosophies about personal interactions. Even as a puppy, Enzo (voiced by Kevin Costner) provides an insightful, almost sage, view of the world around him. Enzo’s perceptions of the world, brilliantly told in Costner’s voice, drives the movie like a one of Denny Swift’s (played by Milo Ventimiglia) cars.

The plot points weren’t groundbreaking.  There were complications and obstacles that have been done, especially in dog movies, but just when one started to piece together the predictable plot on one’s own, there was an extended close-up shot of Enzo’s furry face to make people stop caring that they knew how the rest of the story was going to go.  It went in cycles; complication, predictability, and cute dog close-up... awwwww.

Still, it is worth the price of admission. The cast sold the story. They appeared to actually enjoy their story and that made the audience want to like it, too. Every bit of Racing felt genuine and sincere.  It’s lighter fare, a PG movie in a rated R world. It was a pleasant escape. 

The Art of Racing in the Rain is playing everywhere now. Give it a look... and bring tissues. 

Movie Review: UglyDolls

UGLYDOLLS
Cast: Kelly Clarkson, Nick Jonas, Janelle Monáe, Blake Shelton, Wanda Sykes, Gabriel Iglesias, Wang Leehom, Emma Roberts and Pitbull. Bebe Rexha, Charlie XCX, and Lizzo
Director: Kelly Asbury
Producers: Jane Hartwell, Robert Rodriguez, Oren Aviv
Release Date: May 3, 2019

Official Site

#UglyDollsMovie

Unconventionality rules in UGLYDOLLS, STXfilms' new animated musical adventure starring the acting and singing voices of Kelly Clarkson, Nick Jonas, Janelle Monáe, Blake Shelton and Pitbull.

In the adorably different town of Uglyville, weird is celebrated, strange is special and beauty is embraced as more than simply meets the eye. Here, the free-spirited Moxy (Clarkson) and her UglyDoll friends live every day in a whirlwind of bliss, letting their freak flags fly in a celebration of life and its endless possibilities. In this all-new story, the UGLYDOLLS will go on a journey beyond the comfortable borders of Uglyville. There, they will confront what it means to be different, struggle with their desire to be loved, and ultimately discover that you don't have to be perfect to be amazing because who you truly are is what matters most.

The film is inspired by the unique and beloved global plush toy phenomenon launched in 2001 and features all new original songs from the cast of popstars.

Also starring in the voice cast of UGLYDOLLS are Wanda Sykes, Gabriel Iglesias, Wang Leehom, Emma Roberts, Bebe Rexha, Charli XCX and Lizzo.

An STXfilms and Alibaba Pictures presentation, UGLYDOLLS is directed by Kelly Asbury and will be released in theaters on May 3, 2019.

The original motion picture soundtrack will be released by Atlantic Records.

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Recently, the world of animation has stepped-up its game.  There are some really good, trip to the theater worthy, animated films being made these days.  Unfortunately, UglyDolls isn’t one of them. In the scheme of the good, the bad, and  the ugly,UglyDolls is heavy on the bad and ugly and very low on the good. Opt for a different family film this week, or take the kids to see the latest superhero movie out (again.)

From the get-go, UglyDolls seemed confused.  Moxy (Kelly Clarkson) opened the film with a song about how wonderful the day was going to be and how happy she was to be a part of the Uglywille community, but she’s also very sad that she may never be able to leave Uglywille to realize the dream of belonging to a child. Then, the town mayor, Ox (Blake Shelton) discourages Moxy from following her dream, seemingly to protect her from he real world.  But, in his efforts to protect Moxy, Ox pressures an unwilling Lucky Bat (Wang Leehom) into “counseling” Moxy against her plans to search for more.  … And that was just the first five minutes.

UglyDolls tried hard to make the correct points: self-esteem, inclusion, and tolerance, among others. But, then, one of the dolls crashed into a wall because she didn’t want to “be ugly” by wearing her corrective lenses, and the good messages are lost on the kids in the theater audience wearing corrective lenses.  It happened like that time and again.  Just as the story was going to make a positive point, it went sideways. UglyDolls was definitely not some of Kelly Asbury’s (the Director of the film) best work. If it wasn’t for Moxy’s can-do spirit and big heart, UglyDolls would have been entirely unwatchable.

The music was bad.  It was more like sung dialogue. There was nothing catchy about most of the songs.  No one will be humming the tunes after watching the movie. Maybe because many of the of the voice actors are singers, UglyDolls includes an entire soundtrack of original music.  The many musical numbers were over used and overdone.

Still, not all of it was horrible.  Ugly Dog (Pitbull, who doesn’t love Pitbull?) stole all of the scenes he was in.  Wage’s cynical voice (Wanda Sykes) added genuine and much needed humor. And there was a bit in a washing machine which was creative and original.

That said, skip it. Use the 88 minute run-time to do something else with the family this weekend.  Big kids will dislike the silly music and infantile use of color.  Little kids won’t understand any of the well-intentioned themes.  Parents will resent all of it. Uglydolls is playing everywhere starting May 3.

#Houston Grab Passes to #BreakthroughMovie @ Edwards Greenway Grand Palace Stadium 24 & RPX - 4/6/19

Breakthrough
Release Date: April 17th 2019
Directed by: Roxann Dawson
Starring: Chrissy Metz, Josh Lucas, Topher Grace, Mike Colter, Marcel Ruiz, Sam Trammell and Dennis Haysbert

Rated: PG

#BreakthroughMovie 

BREAKTHROUGH is based on the inspirational true story of one mother’s unfaltering love in the face of impossible odds. When Joyce Smith’s adopted son John falls through an icy Missouri lake, all hope seems lost. But as John lies lifeless, Joyce refuses to give up. Her steadfast belief inspires those around her to continue to pray for John’s recovery, even in the face of every case history and scientific prediction. From producer DeVon Franklin (Miracles from Heaven) and adapted for the screen by Grant Nieporte (Seven Pounds) from Joyce Smith’s own book, BREAKTHROUGH is an enthralling reminder that faith and love can create a mountain of hope, and sometimes even a miracle.

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Do you want to see BREAKTHROUGH Movie before it hits Theaters. Click on the link below, for your chance to download an admit-two screening pass for an advance screening! 

Seats in the theater are first-come, first-serve so PLEASE ARRIVE EARLY!

Movie Review: The Kid Who Would Be King

THE KID WHO WOULD BE KING
Release: January 25, 2019
Runtime: 116 Minutes
MPAA Rating: PG
Written and Directed by: Joe Cornish
Produced by: Nira Park, Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner
Cast: Louis Ashbourne Serkis, Dean Chaumoo, Tom Taylor, Rhianna Dorris, Angus Imrie, with Rebecca Ferguson and Patrick Stewart

Old school magic meets the modern world in the epic adventure THE KID WHO WOULD BE KING. Alex (Ashbourne Serkis) thinks he's just another nobody, until he stumbles upon the mythical Sword in the Stone, Excalibur. Now, he must unite his friends and enemies into a band of knights and, together with the legendary wizard Merlin (Stewart), take on the wicked enchantress Morgana (Ferguson). With the future at stake, Alex must become the great leader he never dreamed he could be.

THE KID WHO WOULD BE KING Official Channels
OFFICIAL WEBSITE: www.TheKidWhoWouldBeKing.com
FACEBOOK: www.Facebook.com/KidWhoWouldBeKing
TWITTER: www.Twitter.com/KidWouldBeKing
INSTAGRAM: www.Instagram.com/KidWhoWouldBeKing
HASHTAG: #KidWhoWouldBeKing

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The story of King Arthur, his sword in the stone, and Lady of Lake is timeless, a classic. It deserves to be told time and again so that each generation may enjoy it. The Kid Who Would Be King is not a remake or a reboot or anything that suggests it might be something less than a fresh take on a classic.   

The Kid Who Would Be King is entirely charming from start to finish.  From the time the title credits roll with Medieval ominous animations, until the end credits, I was completely engrossed in the charm and creativity of story. We have all seen three or four movie versions of the sword in the stone legend, but this story felt fresh in the hands of writer/director Joe Cornish.  The schoolhouse setting and the school-age tribulations made the story relatable and earnest.  If it weren’t for all of the fantasy involved, The Kid Who Would be King could be the story of any middle-schooler.

And as a family adventure story, The Kid Who Would Be King presents timely, and necessary, aspirational themes without coming across as preachy.  The idea of making ones enemies into allies to defeat apocalyptic terrors was novel and fantastic.  “The knight’s code,” a list of attributes to which the characters of the film aspire to, is welcomed counter-programming to today’s divisive culture.  It is never out of style to be chivalrous, trust-worthy or to honor those you love, as the film suggests, without being heavy-handed.    I appreciated that the film worked-in its noble themes into the action and adventure.  It made the lofty themes more palatable for a young audience.

The young cast was very charismatic.  Angus Imrie (as a Young Merlin) stole every scene that he was in.  He had a way of casting spells which is sure to delight young audiences.  Louis Serkis (as Alex) also gave a very convincing performance. It was great to see a diverse group of children as the heroes of the story.  The young cast was such a hit on-screen that cameos played by the adults, Rebecca Ferguson (as Morgana) and Patrick Stewart (as Merlin), were almost unnecessary.

While The Kid Who Would Be King contains some scary images too intense for little, little kids, those images are gentle enough for anyone older than, maybe, seven years.  I watched the movie in an auditorium full of tweens, and they loved it. The only negative critique of the film is that it felt a little long at a two-hour runtime.  The ending felt purposefully long, but that one ding is not enough to keep me from recommending the film.

The Kid Who Would Be King has everything that a parent could want from a family film.  Definitely something to take-in to beat the January doldrums.  Bring the kids. Bring all the kids in the neighborhood, even.  No one will disappointed.  The Kid Who Would Be King is playing everywhere now.

Movie Review: Disney Pixar's #Incredibles2

Incredibles 2
Release Date: June 15th 2018
Rated: PG
Directed by: Brad Bird
Cast: Craig T. Nelson, Holly Hunter, Sarah Vowell, Huck Milner, Eli Fucile, Samuel L. Jackson
Social Media Channels: Web | Facebook | Twitter | Instragram

From the Academy Award®-winning creators of Finding Nemo comes the action-packed animated adventure about the mundane and incredible lives of a house full of superheroes. Bob Parr and his wife Helen used to be among the world's greatest crime fighters, saving lives and battling evil on a daily basis. Fifteen years later, they have been forced to adopt civilian identities and retreat to the suburbs where they live "normal" lives with their three kids, Violet, Dash, and Jack-Jack. Itching to get back into action, Bob gets his chance when a mysterious communication summons him to a remote island for a top secret assignment. He soon discovers that it will take a super family effort to rescue the world from total destruction.

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I, like many other people, have been a very big fan of "The Incredibles". I remember watching and it made me so happy and excited; it made me want to be a super -even though I was already a grown woman. But I also kept waiting and waiting for part two because they leave you hanging in the end of part one. We waited (sort of) patiently and we finally got what we deserved, the part two. So, naturally, when I was invited to go see the screening for this movie to do a review, I didn't even blink before I agreed to it. So here I give you my humble and maybe a little biased opinion about the movie, but I will do my best to keep it neutral.

The movie starts exactly where part one ends and we see everything that happens immediately after, that was the first good point for me. Then they show you more of the home life of the Parrs and how they are getting along and surviving being supers in hiding. That's when things turn around because there's someone who wants to bring the supers back to the public and make them legal again. In the first movie, we see Mr. Incredible get hired and getting paid loads of money for doing his super hero stunts, but in this movie it's Elastigirl who is making the big bucks. She is so good and smooth, and of course, she has heart and puts it in all the things she does.

But, there's something lurking in the background that keeps sending her messages and she soon starts to try to figure out who the real enemy is. The way it was going was very similar to the first one about who the enemy would be, and I was starting to feel disappointed...but Pixar didn't let me down because then there was a twist in the end that I liked much better. Not going to ruing it here because I want you guys to enjoy it and figure it out on your own. 

I loved that there's more character development in this movie for Mr. Incredible for he had a few lessons to learn about being a little more humble and about what it really takes to be a good dad. It also taught Violet a few lessons about being a little more understanding and less, as Dash calls it, "Teenagery". But the real show stealer in this movie is Jack-Jack when he shows more of the powers he showed us towards the end of the first movie. But he's such a happy baby with some sass in him that makes him fantastic. We also get a little cameo of Edna, which is always hilarious.

The absolute best part of the movie was the focus on women and women power! I believe the point was to show that we women can do the same that men can. It's not about being better than them, it's about being equal and this movie showed just that. I hope it provides a good message to the little girls who are watching this, that we can be as super as boy can. 

I won't keep bragging about the movie, I will only ask you to please go watch the movie and enjoy it. It was absolutely worth the wait! I just hope there's a part three and that we don't have to wait another 14 years!

Movie Review: 20th Century Fox's The #GreatestShowman

THE GREATEST SHOWMAN

RUN TIME: 105 MINUTES
RATING: PG
Director: Michael Gracey
Story by: Jenny Bicks
Screenplay by: Jenny Bicks and Bill Condon
Producers: Laurence Mark, Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping
Cast: Hugh Jackman, Michelle Williams, Zac Efron, Rebecca Ferguson, Zendaya

Official Channels: Site | Facebook | @GreatestShowman
#GreatestShowman

“The Greatest Showman” is a bold and original musical that celebrates the birth of show business and the sense of wonder we feel when dreams come to life. Inspired by the ambition and imagination of P.T. Barnum, “The Greatest Showman” tells the story of a visionary who rose from nothing to create a mesmerizing spectacle that became a worldwide sensation. “The Greatest Showman” is directed by exciting new filmmaker, Michael Gracey, with songs by Academy Award winners Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (“La La Land”) and starring Academy Award nominee Hugh Jackman. Jackman is joined by Academy Award nominee Michelle Williams, Zendaya, Zac Efron and Rebecca Ferguson.

THE GREATEST SHOWMAN OPENS IN THEATERS NATIONWIDE DECEMBER 20, 2017

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It was only a few months ago, that the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus shuttered “The Greatest Show on Earth.”  It was a bittersweet event that was simulcast on YouTube, for the world to see. Just when audiences were beginning to feel circus withdrawal pains, this year’s musical spectacular, The Greatest Showman, comes along with all of the memories and magic of real “under the big top” moments. 

The Greatest Showman is inspired by the life of P.T. Barnum, founder of the what would become the Barnum & Bailey Circus.  Focus on the “inspired by” part, for greatest enjoyment.  This isn’t a true biography. The film takes creative liberty with the details of Barnum’s life, and the resulting film is better for that.

Showman is this year’s musical extravaganza with a hopeful message, like that of last year’s hit movie musical, La La Land. While the musical lyrics for La La Land and Showman are written by the same team, Showman’s music has an entirely authentic circus feel.  From the opening musical number through to the closing, the contemporary songs are upbeat and catchy.  They convey the hopeful and defiant spirit of the characters.  The music is easily Showman’s biggest scene-stealer.

That isn’t to say that the cast is overshadowed by the music.  It would take a lot to overshadow Hugh Jackman (as P.T. Barnum) who is perfect in his role and the all-star supporting cast. Zac Efron (as Phillip Carlyle), Zendaya (as Anne Wheeler) and Keala Settle (as Lettie) provide very strong musical and acting performances.  The best scene in the film is easily the Barnum / Carlyle negotiation dance number but Lettie’s voice carries many of other musical moments. Settle has a Broadway voice that inspires an audience to tears, in a good way.  The only exception to the cast was the performance of Michelle Williams (as Charity Barnum).   Williams seemed somewhat out of her league.  The weakest of the musical numbers was Williams’ solo near the end of the movie.  It weakened the ending of the film some to have Williams try a solo just then.

With the exception of Williams’ solo, there is still a ton of good in Showman.  It is quite a sight to behold.  In carrying through with the circus feel, the audience is almost overwhelmed with dramatic and beautiful visuals.  Every scene looks like a circus. The colors are rich.  The set design is very detailed and impeccable. The costuming was gorgeous.  It was especially impressive that none of the bold coloring or busy sets were over the top.  Somehow, it all worked perfectly.  It looked wonderfully mesmerizing on the big screen. 

The best aspect of Showman is it’s hopeful message.  Through its contemporary soundtrack and its spectacular dance numbers, Showman conveys the timeless themes of  “following your dreams,” “persevering over adversity” and “being kind.” Better still, because of its PG rating, Showman is a film for the whole family. No four-letter words, no risqué concepts.

Go see Showman. Then, go buy the soundtrack. Get yourself a top hat and join a circus.  Fine, that last thing is probably a bit much, but that’s how much fun the movie was.  It is perfect for the holiday season and perfect for the whole family.  See The Greatest Showman in theaters, playing everywhere.

Movie Review: Open Road Films' #TheNutJob2

The Nut Job 2: Nutty By Nature
STARRING: Will Arnett, Katherine Heigl, Maya Rudolph, Jackie Chan, Isabela Moner and Bobby Cannavale
GENRE: Animated Comedy/All-Family
RATING: PG (Anticipated)

When the evil mayor of Oakton decides to tear down Liberty Park and build an amusement park in its place, Surly, Buddy, Andie and the rest of the animals are suddenly homeless! Surly tries to fight back, but realizes it’s not going to be easy.
The mayor has got an animal control squad patrolling the park… Precious has been dognapped by the mayor’s hyperactive daughter… And Surly has offended Mr. Feng, an adorable city mouse with deadly kung-fu skills.
Surly realizes that he has to put aside his differences with the animals and get everybody to work together in order to defeat the mayor, rescue Precious, and save Liberty Park… Before it’s too late.

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The Nut Job 2 : Nutty By Nature...  because, I guess, The Nut Job did well financially, and, apparently, that is all it takes to proliferate bad animated movies. And because, as parents, we will take our children to see the only animated feature available at a movieplex, despite the quality. Don't take your children to see The Nut Job 2. Take them to see anything else. 

I didn't care for The Nut Job. The characters are unlikeable. The script lacked wit or humor. I was rooting against what were supposed to be the "lovable ragtag motley crew of park critters." Not even The A list cast of voice actors could redeem the first installment.  It was all bad. 

Take the first installment and add a villainous, too dark, too political Mayor (voiced by Bobby Moynihan) and, if it's possible, the second installment is even worse than the first. 

This new movie is very political for a family feature. The Mayor is portrayed as a money-grubbing, egotistical windbag. I appreciate when family features try to impart decent values on children. This Mayor, and all of his despicable behavior did not feel like a genuine effort to promote good values. It felt forced and overdone, serving to alienate the audience more than educating it. I hated the Mayor, and every scene he, or his cronies, were in. So, I tuned it out. And there was nothing likable enough to re-engage me into the story after the Mayor's scenes.

The only positive aspect of the entire feature was Mr. Feng (voiced by Jackie Chan.) Jackie Chan is, in all things, a professional. Chan has a genuinely likable personality and a voice which sounds good coming out of a tiny city mouse. Unfortunately, there wasn't enough of Mr. Feng to save the rest of the film. 

The characters are, once again, unlikable. The themes are too dark for families. Visually, it was unimpressive. The plot seemed convoluted and uninteresting. If Hollywood is going to cater to families, it should really cater to families and put-out better quality entertainment. 

If there is still some doubt, and you must go see The Nut Job 2 : Nutty By Nature for yourself, you can catch it when it opens everywhere this Friday.

Movie Review: #CaptainUnderpants : The First Epic Movie

CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS: THE FIRST EPIC MOVIE
Release Date: June 2, 2017
MPAA Rating: PG
Director: David Soren
Writer: Nicholas Stoller (Based on the Epic Novels by Dav Pilkey)
Producers: Mark Swift, Mireille Soria
Cast: Kevin Hart, Ed Helms, Nick Kroll, Thomas Middleditch, Jordan Peele, Kristen Schaal
CAPTAIN UNDERPANTS: THE FIRST EPIC MOVIE Official Channels:
Site | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
#CaptainUnderpants

Based on the worldwide sensation and bestselling book series, and boasting an A-list cast of comedy superstars headed by Kevin Hart and Ed Helms, DreamWorks Animation brings audiences the long-awaited global movie event, Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie. This raucously subversive comedy for the entire family tells the story of two overly imaginative pranksters named George and Harold, who hypnotize their principal into thinking he’s a ridiculously enthusiastic, incredibly dimwitted superhero named Captain Underpants.

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It is always nice to have family activities over the Summer. It's fine to find outdoor activities, but when the heat outdoor heat cranks up, it's great to have inside activities available. I'm happy to report that Captain Underpants: the First Epic Movie, opened this weekend, it is a great way to share family time in the comfort of a movie theater. 

The whole film is super cute. Thomas Middlehitch (as the voice of Harold) and Kevin Hart (as the voice of George) really do sound like little boys.  They have the best friendship, the most innocent imagination and the funniest gags. There isn't a single idea or word that parents need to worry about for their children.  The filmmakers didn't push any envelopes. It is all just meant to be fun. 

Mostly, there are funny moments involving poop, boogers, or dolphins. It is great for families with little children.  It's a story about what happens when kids are in charge, and create their own superhero. Captain Underpants (voiced by Ed Helms) is a good-hearted take on a superhero. 

All in all, Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie is a fun family time. The movie is very PG. No one had to cover their ears or their eyes. There wasn't a single risqué moment. It is just fun and creative. Take the whole family to see Captain Underpants this summer.

Movie Review: Paris Can Wait

Paris Can Wait
Director: Eleanor Coppola
Writer: Eleanor Coppola
Cast: Diane Lane, Alec Baldwin, Arnaud Viard
MPAA Rating: Rated PG for thematic elements, smoking and some language
Genres: Comedy | Drama | Romance
Official Sites: Web | Facebook

Anne is at a crossroads in her life. Long married to a successful, driven but inattentive movie producer, she unexpectedly finds herself taking a car trip from Cannes to Paris with a business associate of her husband. What should be a seven-hour drive turns into a carefree two-day adventure replete with diversions involving picturesque sights, fine food and wine, humor, wisdom and romance, reawakening Anne's senses and giving her a new lust for life.

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A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Eleanor Coppola, the wife of the famed Francis Ford Coppola. I got to drink Coppola Wine, eat bruschetta, and watch a movie.  It was a great time.  Every bit of it was fun. An evening about the little things in life, good company, lovely wine, delicious food, etc.  A little escape. That is what I would call Eleanor Coppola’s directorial debut, Paris Can Wait, a little escape. 

Paris Can Wait is a smaller, art-house film.  If you want to see it, you’re going to have to search it out. I think it’s a worthwhile endeavor.  I genuinely enjoyed everything about it.  I love all things Diane Lane (as Anne).  She is great in this film.    There is wonderful chemistry between her and Arnaud Viard (as Jacques). I could have watched another hour of their flirtatious relationship easy.  I appreciated that everything felt subtle, nuanced and rather coquettish.  In a entertainment universe where everyone is running to throw their clothes off, I appreciated the slower pacing of the leads’ relationship.

It’s all about pacing.  It’s in the title.  Paris Can Wait.  There is an open invitation to stop and smell the roses, to make a three day trip from what should be a three hour drive, and to order a cheese plate after someone has had a full meal.  In  a fast-paced world, people forget to slow down.  Paris Can Wait reminds us. 

And oh my goodness, the food.  I love foodie films.  As a pretend foodie (really, I just like eating), it was visually stunning to see some of the finer dishes offered in the South of France.  Every scene contained something new and interesting to behold. Even the roadside picnic looked tastier than the average wrapped sandwiches.

All in all, Paris Can Wait is a great bit of escapism. The scenery is wonderful.  The cast is charming. The story is quaint.  It’s perfect for a grown-up night out with a great bottle of wine.  It complements both red or white wine. Visually, the food and the countryside looked wonderful on the big screen.  I’m glad I caught this in the theater. If you want to escape the living room couch for a bit, try Paris Can Wait, playing everywhere now.

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yara

Movie Review: SPC's The Red Turtle

The Red Turtle
Release Date: February 10th at Sundance Cinemas Houston
MPAA Rating: PG
Runtime: 80 min.

Through the story of a man shipwrecked on a tropical island inhabited by turtles, crabs and birds, The Red Turtle recounts the milestones in the life of a human being.

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I loved this film. It’s simplicity and refreshing animation do a fabulous job of taking the most basic plot imaginable and turning it into a magical fable without uttering a single word throughout the entire film. It won't be for everyone, I can see that clearly. For me, the wide variety of creatures such as crabs, birds, fish, frogs, centipedes, bats, and of course clusters of baby turtles are a crucial part that tickles your imagination and breathes life into the story. None of these creatures speaks — in fact, there’s not a single line of dialogue in the entire movie… yet it feels so alive. This is an exceedingly gorgeous film that is rich with emotion and commands that you led your heart to its story. A beautiful example of what animation as a medium is capable of and what it can achieve that live-action storytelling cannot

The first-time feature from Dutch animator Michaël Dudok de Wit is an animated film co-produced by Japan’s storied Studio Ghibli (Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away), but possesses none of Ghibli’s stylistic hallmarks. But the plot isn’t what’s exciting about The Red Turtle, nor is it the source of the film’s power.

The story is of a man who awakes alone apparently shipwrecked on a deserted island. Despite several attempts to flee, his plans are foiled by a large red turtle. Later, this turtle transforms into a beautiful red-haired woman, and the two live out their years together and have a child. It is such a clean and honest story, that by the end you have fully invested yourself in the film and cannot believe you have reached the end.

Personally, I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this film and was excited to write the review for it. It is such a breath of fresh air in an overly saturated and commercialized genre of film.

Movie Review: 20th Century Fox's Hidden Figures - #HiddenFigures

HIDDEN FIGURES
Release: December 25, 2016 (Edwards Greenway Grand Palace); January 6, 2017 (Wide)
Director: Theodore Melfi
Screenplay by: Allison Schroeder and Theodore Melfi (writing credits not final), based on the book by Margot Lee Shetterly
Producers: Donna Gigliotti, Peter Chernin, Jenno Topping, Pharrell Williams, Theodore Melfi
Cast: Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monáe, Kevin Costner, Kirsten Dunst, Jim Parsons, Mahershala Ali, Aldis Hodge, Glen Powell & Kimberly Quinn.
HIDDEN FIGURES Official Channels: SITE | FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM
#HiddenFigures

HIDDEN FIGURES is the incredible untold story of Katherine G. Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer) and Mary Jackson (Janelle Monáe)—brilliant African-American women working at NASA, who served as the brains behind one of the greatest operations in history: the launch of astronaut John Glenn into orbit, a stunning achievement that restored the nation’s confidence, turned around the Space Race, and galvanized the world. The visionary trio crossed all gender and race lines to inspire generations to dream big.

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My thoughts. Last movie screening of year! Good to close on a high note. Merry Christmas!

There are not enough movies that families can watch together. There it is. I said it. Time and again, I have sat in a theater wishing I was anywhere else.  And just as often, my kids have fallen asleep in a theater because they hated a film I made them attend. I admit that pleasing the entire family is a difficult equation to solve.  As the product of worthwhile biopics and entertaining story-telling, Hidden Figures yields a great movie time. Did you see what I did there? It's a movie about math. Okay, enough kidding around. 

Hidden Figures is phenomenal. It really is the kind of movie that everyone should see. It is true blue All-American history about our shared experience, for better or worse. It's the kind of history that no one is going to read about in schoolbooks, but everyone should know. I brought both of my tweens to see Hidden Figures and all three of us loved it. 

The story of early space travel is always interesting. Hidden Figures tells the story most people think they know, but shows it from a different perspective.  It holds a very timely message.  The film is captivating, uplifting and hopeful.  It is a must-see movie.

The ensemble cast was wonderful. I can't remember when I liked Taraji P. Henson as much as I liked her portrayal of the brainy Katherine Johnson. Octavia Spencer (as Dorothy Vaughn) and  Janelle Monáe (as Mary Jackson) both give strong performances in their companion title roles. The ensemble, including Kirsten Dunst, Jim Parsons and Kevin Costner, are also perfectly cast. 

I appreciated the pacing and direction of the story.  The two-hour run time flew by. I liked that the audience was given an opportunity to get to know each of the title characters. None of it felt forced, or rushed or extra. The characters, the saga, and the sub-plots were all balanced beautifully. 

It's a great movie for young girls to see.  It's great for young boys, for older boys, and for women of all ages. I can't imagine who wouldn't be served by the hopeful theme of Hidden Figures. Take a group and go see it. You will not be sorry. Hidden Figures opens in limited release on Christmas and nationwide this Friday. 

Movie Review: Pixar Animation Studios' Finding Dory - #HaveYouSeenHer

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Finding Dory
Release Date: June 17th 2016
Director: Andrew Stanton
Writers: Andrew Stanton (screenplay/story), Victoria Strouse (story), Bob Peterson (story)
Starring: Ellen DeGeneres (Dory), Albert Brooks (Marlin), Ed O'Neill (Hank), Hayden Rolence (Nemo), Bob Peterson (Mr. Ray)
Genres: Animation | Adventure | Comedy | Family
MPAA Rating: Rated PG for mild thematic elements
Official Socials: Website | Facebook | Twitter | IMDb

“Finding Dory” reunites the friendly-but-forgetful blue tang fish with her loved ones, and everyone learns a few things about the true meaning of family along the way. The all-new big-screen adventure dives into theaters in 2016, taking moviegoers back to the extraordinary underwater world from the original film.

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It is hard to believe that it has been thirteen years since Finding Nemo swam across the big screen (and the ocean), but it has. Finding Nemo is the first movie my daughter saw on the big screen.  She was a baby, but I wanted to see it, and she slept through most of it.  She slept because she was a baby and the pretty blue water on-screen knocked her out, not because of the movie quality.  Finding Nemo was, of course, great.  It has become one of my family’s favorite films.  Thirteen years later, my whole family dove back into the sea to experience Finding Dory, and I am glad that we did.

From start to finish, Finding Dory is a delight.  The original gang is back.  Dory, Marlin and Nemo are voiced by the cast of the first film.  To the originals, the film adds new, equally lovable, characters in Destiny, Bailey and Hank.  Hank, voiced by Ed O’Neill, is a total ham and my favorite new character.  The film adds just the right amount of new characters to the originals.  The audience gets to know each of them, and they get to see what makes each of the characters special.

The new adventure is great.  Finding Dory does not stray too far from the original formula that made Finding Nemo so likeable, but it isn’t necessary for an enjoyable experience.  There are some parallels to the original adventure, but not so many that it feels like the old story is repeating itself.  The setting of Finding Dory lends itself well to the right amount of diversity. Those of us who have been waiting thirteen years will appreciate the similarities to the original story and everyone else will appreciate that the new story still plays as fresh.    

The theme of Finding Dory is universal. It is great for younger audiences and adults alike.  I think the theme will especially resonate with anyone who is living with adversity.  Everyone has something to work through. Every sea creature has something to work through, also. Ellen DeGeneres' voice-work is sublime in this regard. The audience can't help but feel the genuineness of Dory's troubles, and we are all on the edge of our seats until the resolution. 

It really is a great time. It looked beautiful on the big screen and even better in 3D.  I suggest splurging on all the bells and whistles for this one, Disney/Pixar never disappoints. Get your water wings ready. Finding Dory swims into theaters on June 17.

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Movie Review: Sony Pictures Classics' Dark Horse

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DARK HORSE
Directed by: Louise Osmond
Release Date: 5/20 @ Sundance Cinemas Houston
MPAA Rating: PG
Runtime: 85 mins

Set in a former mining village in Wales, DARK HORSE is the inspirational true story of a group of friends from a working men's club who decide to take on the elite 'sport of kings' and breed themselves a racehorse. Raised on a slagheap allotment, their foal grows into an unlikely champion, beating the finest thoroughbreds in the land, before suffering a near fatal accident. Nursed back to health by the love of his owners - for whom he's become a source of inspiration and hope - he makes a remarkable recovery, returning to the track for a heart-stopping comeback.

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I didn’t know that Dark Horse was a documentary.  It’s my fault.  I should read my materials closer.  Not that it matters.  It’s just that documentaries are few and far between for me.  I was drawn to the picture of a horse on the movie poster.  I'm glad the movie poster got my attention. Dark Horse was a great documentary.  It is the kind of movie that makes me love screening movies.  I have to see a lot of stones to find the gems.  Dark Horse is definitely one of the rare gems that I was glad I stumbled upon. 

Dark Horse documents the story of a bunch of underdogs.  The subjects of the story, the Vokes and the Davies, are an entirely charming group of people that, for every indication, did not belong in the regal sport of horse racing.  I loved the unassuming, self-deprecating nature of the dialogue.  Sometimes, the talk was funny.  At one point Mr. Vokes made reference to the fact that his teeth were in a jar, instead of his mouth.  Sometimes, the talk was frank and a bit painful.  Mrs. Vokes made mention of the unpleasant looks she received from professional horse breeders and racers.  Whether it was light or heavy, the dialogue was real.  I appreciated that the subjects of the film wore the their perceived position in the community as a badge of honor.

The film felt like it started a bit slow.  In the moment, I remember I wanted to see the horse run.  By the end, I appreciated the pace of the film.  It has the same build-up that I imagine the sport of horse racing to have.  Most of horse racing seems like background.  It takes a long time for the horses to prepare to run a few laps around a track.  I only learned that from watching the movie.  The subjects of the film worked for years and faced obstacles in the hopes that they would achieve their dream.

The race footage looked great on the big screen.  These are not horse races that I would have known anything about before the film, so I was engaged in the outcome of each. I would have appreciated even more race footage, but Dark Horse isn’t only about horses or races, it’s about people and events.  It is in the people and the events that the audience finds the film’s relatability.  It is also what raised this movie from just good to genuinely enjoyable.

I enjoyed the positive message of the film.  It’s never a bad thing to see people willing to tackle adversity in order to achieve a dream.  The bigger the dream, the harder the work.  That’s the very nature of dreams.  I think the message is great for families.  There isn’t a single four letter word or off-color comment in the whole ninety minutes.  Sports families will especially enjoy the “never quit” message.  I brought my own children to the screening, and they loved it.  You will have to seek it out, if you want to catch it in theaters.  Dark Horse is in limited release now.  It opens nationally on May 20.

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