Thor hammers into our hearts with entertaining humor and action

Movie Title:
  Thor: Ragnarok

Grade:  A

Rating: PG-13, 130 minutes

In a Nutshell:  Count them…17!  Thor: Ragnarok is the 17^th film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.  New Zealand director Taika Waititi directs this super colorful, funny superhero movie presented by Walt Disney Pictures.  He also voices the lovable character Korg.

It’s fresh and fun family entertainment that makes us love Thor even more.

Uplifting theme: 

• Brother’s keeper
• Forgiveness
• People are more important than places.
• Teamwork, unity
• Love, service to others
• “A wise king must never seek out war, but must always be ready for it.” – Thor
• “I choose to run towards my problems and not away, because that’s what heroes do.” - Thor

Things I liked:

• Chris Hemsworth is awesome, but everyone else in the cast also steals the show.  It’s a collection of fantastic actors who each contribute unique, entertaining characters to the story.
• Tom Hiddleston is a better Loki we’re learning to love.
• I have adored the talented, beautiful Cate Blanchett for many years.  How is it that she never ages, but I do?  She makes a fantastic villain.
• Anthony Hopkins is always epic.
• Awwww, Benedict Cumberbatch.  Doctor Strange has an amusing visit with Thor.
• Mark Ruffalo spends more time being The Incredible Hulk, but Hulk is really endearing in this film.
• Jeff Goldblum is hilarious.  I love him in everything he does.
• Fun surprise cameo towards the very beginning of the movie.  No spoilers!
• It appears that Marvel has finally learned that audiences love fun, funny, irreverent, out-of-the box thinking superhero movies.  Ever since the first Guardians of the Galaxy (Plus Bonus Features)thrilled audiences, superhero movies have lightened up a lot more, don’t you think?
• Female fans get to see Chris Hemsworth with his shirt off.  Wow, those arms are the size of tree trunks!  For those who love his long, golden locks, you’re in for a surprise.
• I love that Marvel puts Stan Lee in every movie. I always look forward to seeing what funny line they give him.
• Stay until the end of the first set of credits to see more.  Then, stay until the very, very end of all the credits to see another funny scene with the Grandmaster.
• In an interview, Taika Waititi said that 80% of the movie was improvised.  What?  That’s crazy and amazing!
• Led Zepplin’s Immigrant Song really rocks the final battle scene.
• The Gladiator scene with Thor and Hulk in the arena was extremely entertaining.
• Some new creatures and characters fill the Marvel Universe with even more creativity and fantasy.
• Energizing soundtrack: Thor: Ragnarok 

Things I didn’t like:

·    Some fake video-game looking fight scenes.

• Some of the jokes don’t quite get the reaction I’m sure the director hoped they would.
• It helps to have seen Thor and  Thor: The Dark World and know the characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.  You'll enjoy the movie more.

Funny lines:

• “Yes!  We know each other!  He’s a friend from work.” – Thor talking about when he first sees Hulk in the arena
• "I have been falling for 30 minutes!" - Loki

Tips for parents: 

• Superhero violence and destruction.
• You see the naked backside of Hulk.
• Some profanity
• Young children may be frightened by a big, fiery monster

MOVIE REVIEW MOM

@trinaboice 

Cars 3 has heart and impressive animation

Movie Title:  Cars 3 (Theatrical)

Grade:  B+

Rating:   G, 109 minutes

In a Nutshell:  This family-friendly flick is the third installment in the Cars franchise.  By the way, the Cars ride at California Adventures next to Disneyland in California is really great.  You’ll need to race over there first thing in the morning to get a Fast Pass. They have done a really good job creating a Cars area too. 

Uplifting theme: 

• “You can’t turn back the clock, but you can wind it up again.” – Mater (Larry the Cable Guy)                 
• “Don’t feel failure.  Be afraid of not having the chance!” – Sally (Bonnie Hunt)
• “Try something new.” – Lightning McQueen (Owen Wilson)
• “You can use anything negative as fuel to push through to the positive.” – Cruz Ramirez (Cristela Alonzo)
• “The truth is always quicker.” – old car (What’s his name?)
• Believe in yourself.

Things I liked:

• The animation is extremely impressive.
• The training sequences were pretty cute.
• A lot of really beautiful landscapes and environments.
• It earns its Pixar magic in the Third Act.  Very sweet.
• Parents and grandparents might be able to relate to the feeling of aging and being  past their prime, like Lightning McQueen feels.  There is a positive lesson here for all of us old farts.
• It’s great to hear John Ratzenburger’s voice again. Other familiar, favorite voice talents include Cheech Marin, Tony Shalhoub, Bonnie Hunt, Kerry Washington, Nathan Fillion, Bob Costas, and of course, Owen Wilson.

Things I didn’t like:

• The story is very similar to the first movie in that an old driver (Doc Hudson) has-been tries to make a comeback.
• How many kids (which is the target audience) are going to be able to relate to a midlife crisis?
• There is a LOT of time spent racing.  That might lose the interest of some little girls.
• Despite being a racing moving, it's a little slow-moving.  Ironic, eh?
• There isn't as much humor as the first movie.

Trivia:

• Paul Newman was the original voice of Doc Hudson.  They used some of the unused audio clips from the first movie to add his voice to this film after his death.  By the way, did you know Paul Newman was a race car driver for many years?
• Mack drives through Arlo’s family farm, which was shown in Pixar’s movie The Good Dinosaur.
• One of the new racers whose number is 31 is sponsored by Triple Dent Gum, which was the gum commercial that annoyed Anger in the movie Inside Out.
• The only other Pixar film to have a 3^rd movie installment is Toy Story.
• All three Cars movies came out around the same time as Pirates of the Caribbean movies.
• Look closely and you’ll see a Pizza Planet truck from Toy Story during the demolition scene.

Funny lines:

• “Life’s a beach and then you drive.” – Lighning McQueen

Tips for parents: 

• This is very safe for children of all ages.  There is no profanity or anything inappropriate. 
• There are some car crashes.

Want to catch up on the first two movies in this franchise? 
Cars
Cars 2


@trinaboice 

Beauty and the Beast brings animation magic to life

Movie Title:
  Beauty and the Beast

Grade:  A

Rating:  PG, 129 minutes

In a Nutshell:  In this lovely Disney re-telling of a tale as old as time, Emma Watson shows us she can sing, dance, and cast a delightful spell on audiences, even when she isn’t playing Hermione Granger.  

Bill Condon (who also directed Dreamgirls and one of the Twilight movies) sticks fairly close to the source material, but adds a few new songs and some new jokes to freshen up the story.

While I enjoyed this new version, I have to admit the 1991 Disney animation did it better.

Uplifting theme: 

• Do not be deceived by appearances, for beauty is found within.
• “Don’t be afraid.” - Beast
• Be kind and fearless

Things I liked:

• There are some beautiful set pieces and landscapes that put the make-believe French village and castle in the magic zone. 
• Josh Gad is Disney awesomeness and looks quite comfortable in another musical.
• It’s better in 3D, but not necessary.  (I saw it in both.)
• I love Dan Stevens’ blue eyes.
• I’ve always loved Kevin Kline in anything he does, so I thought his little solo was very touching. “How does a moment last forever? How does a story never die? It's love we must hold on to.”  Celine Dion sings it again at the end of the movie.  More love.  Did you know she won a Grammy for a song she sang with the 1991 animated movie?
• Audra McDonald clearly has the best pipes out of all the singers in the movie.  Did you know she is married to Will Swenson (I thought he was hilarious in Sons of Provo)
• I loved the Beast’s eye makeup in the beginning.
• I thought the tomato soup and rolls that Belle and the Beast ate for lunch looked delicious.  Yeah, of course I would notice the food.
• As an author, I love that books played a prominent role in the movie.  Belle explains that books allow you to escape.  Yes!  (So do movies.)
• Did you notice Belle’s modern earring that she wore on one ear at the ball?
• I thought Belle and the Beast looked good together at the end, like they matched.
• I loved how the rolling credits showed the cast at the end of the movie.
• Emma Thompson is magical in everything she does.
• The sets and costumes are all gorgeous.
• The original composer from the 1991 animation came back to score this film!
• Luke Evans was awesome as Gaston.
• If you loved the original, you'll be glad they didn't change much in this version.
• A lot of critics are bashing Ewan McGregor for his terrible French accent, but I thought it was fine.  I've always really liked him.  I mean, c'mon, he's a Jedi.
• Can't get enough of this movie?  Check out this interesting video that includes 20 secrets about the making of Beauty and the Beast.

Things I didn’t like:

• While I thought the live action remake of Cinderella with Lily James and Cate Blanchett was absolutely fantastic, this new version of Beauty and the Beast is just ok.
• In this new adaptation, the Beast has a magical book that allows you to teleport anywhere.  Awesome, right?  So then, why is the magic mirror still needed?
• While I enjoyed Emma Watson, I’m just wondering why Anna Kendrick wasn’t cast as Belle.  She has a much, much better voice.
• Why is Belle’s skirt always pulled up on the right side?
• It feels like a stage play at times.
• Sometimes the camera moves too fast.  I wanted to see more things slower.
• I wanted the famous ballroom dance scene to be breathtaking, like in the newest Cinderella, but it was underwhelming.
• If you were hoping for a new take on the original story, you might be disappointed, because it is very much the same movie, except with live action.
• I thought Belle was kind of rude when Gaston gave her flowers in the square.

Interesting lines:

• “She hasn’t made a fool of herself just to gain my favor.  What would you call that?” – Gaston (Luke Evans)

“Dignity.” – Le Fou
"It's outrageously attractive, don't you think?" - Gaston

• “Your library makes our small corner of the world feel big.” – Belle
• “People say a lot of things in anger.  It is our choice whether or not to listen.” – Mrs. Pott
• “Can anybody be happy if they’re not free?” – Belle

Funny lines:

• “It’s never going to happen, ladies.” – Le Fou (Josh Gad)
• "You really want to marry into this family?" - Le Fou

Tips for parents: 

• There is a scene with LeFou, Gaston’s sidekick, that has been labeled a “gay moment." Because of it, the movie has already been banned in Malaysia and restricted to viewers over the age of 16 in Russia.  In my opinion, that moment has been blown out of proportion.  In fact, I was able to identify what could be called 3 "gay moments."  I completely understand why parents feel betrayed by Disney, who they look to for "safe" family-friendly entertainment; however, over the years, more and more Disney films have contained potentially offensive material. What are parents to do?  Talk with your children about what you value and why, while teaching them to love others.
• Young girls will notice that only the boys were allowed to go to school and read.  Talk to your daughters about that.  Point out how smart, independent, and capable Belle was because she read and sought knowledge.
• No profanity.  Thank you Disney!
• There are some scenes that might frighten young children, particularly with scary wolves and fighting.

Check out this cool video that BYU's Vocal Point just made with Lexi Walker to honor the wonderful music of Beauty and the Beast! The male dancer in the scene "Tale as Old as Time" was dating my niece. They were both on the award-winning BYU Ballroom dance team together! He's a really great guy.

Queen of Katwe is royally inspiring

Movie Title:        Queen Of Katwe

  

Grade:   A

Rating: PG, 124 minutes

In a Nutshell:   Walt Disney presents a fascinating, feel-good, underdog story about a smart girl who grows up in extreme poverty in Uganda.  It’s fascinating to watch this determined girl learn how to solve problems and conquer her surroundings through the game of Chess.  Even better?  It’s a true story.

Disney has practically invented the inspiring sports movie genre.  While Chess may not be considered a sports movie, this wonderful film is a welcome addition to the collection.

Uplifting theme: 

• “To find where you belong, you must make your move.”
• “Sometimes the place you are used to is not the place where you belong.” – Coach Robert Katende
• “Can you do big things from such a small place?” – Phiona
• Challenges are not a curse.   (Painted on the back of their bus.)
• “Focus on what you have.” - Coach

Things I liked:

• Lupita Nyong’o and David Oyelowo are both absolutely fantastic.  You would think they were native Ugandans with their spot-on accents.  Lupita’s biceps are impressive.  David’s eyes speak volumes of love.
• The music is fun and energizing.
• The scene where Gloria had the hiccups while she competed against a super tall kid was adorable.
• Little Ethan Nazario Lubega plays a super cute Benjamin.  I loved the little gasp he made when he got excited about something.
• I wish all children had a loving, kind coach like Robert Katende.
• I like the way they snap their fingers.
• What a beautiful fisherman scene when Robert is talking to Phiona at the water’s edge.  I was fascinated by the images of daily life in Uganda.
• It’s cute how they all say “cloth-es.”
• I always love it when the audience gets to see pictures of the real people at the end of the movie next to the actors who played them.  This movie takes it one delightful step farther by letting you see them filmed together.
• Indian Director Mira Nair creates a very nice balance between telling the stories of the coach, mother, and our dear little queen of Chess.
• Ah, that cute little Richard.  The young Richard was played by Ivan Jacobo, followed by Nicolas Levesque as older Richard.
• Keep watching during the rolling credits for a fun music video surprise you’ll love!

Things I didn’t like:

• Everyone’s accents are so thick that it’s often hard to understand what people say.
• It was sad when Phiona’s sister (Night) said, “I don’t think God cares about us one way or another.” Coach Robert worked with a ministry and SHOWED the poor people God’s love, rather than just preach it.
• It was sad that Fiona’s mother had to sneak out of the hospital because she couldn’t pay her son’s bill.
• Some of those outfits.  Yikes.  Ha ha
• Like playing a game of Chess, you can see several moves ahead that the film will make, but each step is still extremely enjoyable to watch.

Funny lines:

•  “No, no, no, please, no!” – Minister Aloysius Kyazze (Philip Luswata)          “Yes, yes, yes, please, yes!” – Robert
• “Ketchup is the greatest thing that has ever been invented.” –  Mugabi Brian (Martin Kabanza)

Interesting lines:

•  “Use your minds and you will all find safety.” – Robert
• “I don’t need your forgiveness.  I need you to sell maize to feed your brothers.” – Nakku Harriet
• “In Chess, the small one can become the big one.  That’s why I like it.” – Gloria Nansubuga (Nikita Waligwa)
• “I wish I could just take all the knowledge from here and just put it inside my head.” – Phiona   (I feel the EXACT same way about books!)  Her coach explains, “With a book, it’s like the teacher lives inside them and you can visit them any time you wish!”
• “I may be down, but I am not out.” – Richard

·       “I wish we could eat these prizes.” –Nakku  (I felt the same way.  I won a lot of Speech & Debate tournaments in college and wished that, instead of a useless trophy, I could have received cash or even a platter that I could have served food on!

·       “They cannot return to their old lives, because they have tasted yours.” – Nakku Harriet

·       “Where is my safe square, Coach?” – Phiona Mutesi

• “Losing teaches me to play better. “ = Phiona Mutesi

Did you know?

• Director Mira Nair made a documentary about Coach Robert Katende first and then later decided to adapt the story into a feature film.
• A famous fashion model in Uganda won an auction during a fundraiser for the film so that she could play an Extra in the movie.
• This colorful story was filmed mainly in Uganda and South Africa.

Tips for parents:

• This is a great movie for your kids to see, because they have probably never seen poverty like this before.  It will expand their horizon to see how people live in other countries, hopefully, making them more grateful for what they have.  While living with hardly anything, someone asks, “Hi Phiona! How is your life?”  She smiles and happily answers, “It is fine!”
• Some talk of prostitution.
• Phiona gives our children a great example of an obedient girl who works hard and never gives up.

Moana is picture perfect for families

Movie Title:         Moana

  

Grade:  A+

Rating:  PG, 103 minutes

In a Nutshell:   Disney brings us another animated film that is simply gorgeous.  Each frame in the movie could be a postcard.  The animation is stellar and absolutely breathtaking.  The hair, sand, water, feathers, fabric and textures are done so well you feel you could reach out and touch them.

It has everything you want in a family-friendly film: solid characters, adventure, memorable music, a positive lesson for kids to learn, a good role model, comedy, peril, and touching family moments.

Before the movie begins, another Disney short entitled “Inner Workings” plays that reminds us to live our lives with meaning and joy.  Adorable.

Uplifting theme: 

• You need to have heart.
• “Find happiness right where you are.” – lyrics in one of the songs
• “That voice inside is who you are.” – Grandma Tala
• Sometimes our strengths lie beneath the surface.” – Moana
• “The things you have learned will change you.  The people you love will guide you.”  - Grandma Tala
• Your weaknesses don’t define you.

Things I liked:

• Some of the song were written by writer and star of the Broadway smash hit Hamilton (Original Broadway Cast Recording) [Explicit], Lin Manuel Miranda.  The lyrics are powerful and meaningful.
• Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson recently earned the title as “Sexiest Man Alive”.  Now we get to hear him sing!  He has great comedic and dramatic timing in everything he does.
• Auli’I Cravalho does a fantastic job voicing Moana.  The character even looks like her.
• Hei Hei, the stupid chicken, got lots of laughs from the audience.  I adore Alan Tudyk and was tickled to learn that it was his voice that brings the chicken to life.  Pua, the cute pig, was just that…cute, but didn’t grab the audience’s attention nearly as much.

• Maui’s tattoos interact with Maui and even the audience.
• Clever use of tapa bark cloth prints to set up the story in the beginning.
• I love a good romance in a movie; however, I love that there is no prince or hero in this one...Moana is the hero. Moana’s future is determined by her own efforts and leadership.  She is a strong role model for your daughters. You go, girl!
• This movie will make you want to go on vacation to Hawaii or some other Polynesian destination.  If you’re in Hawaii, be sure to visit the famous Polynesian Cultural Center where you can get a taste of Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, New Zealand and more!
• Stay seated until the very end of the rolling credits for a funny moment with the crab.
• While watching the credits, you’ll notice a long list of babies who were born during production.  Cute.
• I loved it when baby Moana helps a baby turtle find its way to the ocean.  I got to participate in a turtle release in Cabo San Lucas in November several years ago.  The turtle sanctuary invited us to help them release hundreds of babies. Soooooo cool!
• Cute choreography.
• Who knew coconuts could be so dangerous?  ha ha
• The plot is pretty simple, yet Moana has a lot of interesting and creative adventures along her journey.

Things I didn’t like:

• For some reason, Chief Tui (Temuera Morrison) was the only character with a Polynesian accent.
• You have to listen to the songs a few times to understand the clever lyrics, because sometimes they're sung so fast you can't catch everything the first time around.
• You don't have to see it in 3D to love it.

Funny lines:

•  “Nothing?  Really?  What’s a demigod gotta do?” - Maui
• “Really?  A blow dart in my butt cheek?” – Maui
• “I’m the village crazy lady.  That’s my job.” – Grandma Tala
• “When you use a bird to write with, it’s called Tweeting.” – Maui
• “What’s nunya?” – Moana     “None of ya business.” - Maui

Interesting lines:

•  “The call that calls isn’t out here – it’s inside me.” - Moana

Tips for parents:

• There is a theme of reincarnation you might want to talk to your kids about.  Do you believe in reincarnation?  Resurrection? Talk to your children about where you believe you go after this life.
• There is a fiery lava monster that might scare young children.
• Young children may need to be reminded that they have to be very careful in the ocean when they go to the beach.

Pete's Dragon is simply sweet

Movie Title: Pete's Dragon

Grade:  B

Rating:  PG, 90 minutes

In a Nutshell:   Disney is on a live-action roll!  This is a charming family movie for all ages. 

In fact, it’s the adults who will probably get the most out of it, feeling like children again.  It’s very touching and a simplified version of the 1977 original.  

Uplifting theme: 

• “There’s magic in the woods if you know where to look for it.” –  Meacham (Robert Redford)
• “If you go through life only seeing what’s right in front of you, you’re going to miss a lot.” – Meacham
• Family, belonging
• “Just because you can’t see something doesn’t mean it’s not there.” – Meacham
• Why we love and need a faithful pet.

Things I liked:

• Little Levi Alexander, who played the young Pete, is absolutely adorable.
• Oakes Fegley does a great job as Pete.
• Popular Mormon YouTube artist Lindsey Stirling created the song “Something Wild”, which is featured in the movie.  Did you know she is the highest paid female YouTuber?!  Her newest album “Something Wild” just dropped last Monday. Andrew McMahon sings the vocals. 
• Beautiful forest scenery.
• Sweet ending.
• I liked that Elliott, the dragon, didn’t look sugary sweet, but had just the right amount of scariness and believability.
• The car accident was handled well in the beginning, although young children may be frightened by the scenario.
• I saw it in 3D, but it’s just as good without the added 3D element.
• Great blend of CGI and real humans.
• I’m always happy to see Bryce Dallas Howard.  Her emotional performance got to me.
• Who doesn’t love Robert Redford?
• You get to see the dragon.  A lot.  Yay.

Things I didn’t like:

• If you're looking for a remake of the original musical movie, you will be disappointed.  
• The relationship development between Grace and Pete seemed too fast.  It seemed unrealistic that Pete would so quickly leave the only friend he had ever known for most of his young life (Eliott) to go with Grace, whom he had just met.
• Karl Urban’s character, Gavin, was too one-dimensional.
• There was a little bit of humor, but there could have been more.

·       The film has an E.T. quality about it, as most of the adults in the town don’t understand magic or friendship.  I’m not sure why I put that in the “Things I didn’t like” section.  Maybe because that idea is no longer original?

Interesting lines:

• “That’s the other thing about an adventure; you have to be very brave.” – Dad (Gareth Reeves)
• “You might be the bravest boy I’ve ever met.” – Grace (Bryce Dallas Howard)
• “It was like magic.  There’s no other word to describe it.  It was magic.  It changed the way I see the world.” – Meacham

Tips for parents:   

• No profanity.  Very clean.
• Your kids are probably going to want a pet now.
• Good time to buy the book so your kids can relive the magic over and over again.

Finding Dory has the "Awwww" factor

Movie Title:        Finding Dory

  

Grade:   A

Rating:     PG, 100 minutes

In a Nutshell:   The feels!  The first line of the movie that you hear comes out of the sweet little mouth of Dory when she was a toddler, causing every female in the audience to gasp, “Awwwww!”  My teenage son leaned over to me and said, “This is going to be a long movie.”  Ha ha   Later, he admitted he really did like the movie, even more than he thought he would.

This heartwarming Pixar sequel is perfect for all ages. It’s risky to feature a supporting character from a previous movie (Finding Nemo), but it works great in this film.  Dory is adorable, lovable. and easily carries her own movie.  

One of the best parts of seeing this movie is watching the ADORABLE animated short before Finding Dory!  The animation is AMAZING!  Sooooo cute!  Awwwww!

Uplifting theme: 

•  “You can do whatever you put your mind to.”  - Jenny (Dory’s mom, played by Diane Keaton!)
• During the final credits, the screen says, “The film is dedicated to all our families – of every kind.  You keep us swimming.”    Families come in all shapes and sizes.
• “The best things happen by chance.” – Dory
• “There’s always a way.” – Dory
• We often don’t know who we are and what our talents are.  Let’s help each other by sharing kind words with one another.
• “Just keep swimming.” – Jenny (Dory’s mother)
• While the title makes you believe someone is trying to find Dory, SHE is the one looking to find someone…her parents.  On her journey, she finds herself.
• Mr. Ray (Bob Peterson) teaches the school children about instinct and describes it as “the song you always know.”  We all have a natural desire to go home.
• Respect for ocean life.

Things I liked:

• Ellen DeGeneres is wonderful as Dory.
• Keep watching during the post credits to see Hank doing silly things.  Then, keep watching until after ALL of the credits for a fun surprise.
• I love the last line of the movie and the song that follows.  Marlin looks out over the drop and sighs, “It really is quite a view.”  Dory agrees, “Yep.  Unforgettable.”  Then, the ridiculously talented Sia sings “Unforgettable.”  Perfect.
• Two of the “dads” from Modern Family voice characters in this film:  Ed O’Neill (Hank) and Ty Burrell (Bailey).
• John Ratzenberger is a Pixar icon.   
• Some of the small roles are voiced by BIG talents such as Eugene Levy, Idris Elba, Brad Garrett, Allison Janney, Willem Dafoe, and two SNL comedians -  Kate McKinnon and Bill Hader.
• You’ll never see sea shells in the ocean the same way again.
• Becky!
• It’s interesting that this film doesn’t really have a classic villain, other than the dangerous situations Dory and the characters find themselves in.  Nevertheless, it works. Very well.
• I love it when Dory talks in her sleep.  This time she says, “Give me the ratchet wrench.  I can fix it.”  It’s another insight into her character that she always wants to fix situations, despite her disability.
• The colors and textures are rich.  The movement under the sea is so realistic that you really feel like you’re in the ocean.

Things I didn’t like:

• I adore Albert Brooks as Marlin and was sad he wasn’t utilized more in the movie.  Still, he has some poignant moments.

· I cried in Finding Nemo.  I’ve seen the movie a bunch of times and still cry when I watch it.  SPOILER ALERT: The reunion moment should have had me bawling, but it ended so quickly that I hardly had a chance to tear up.

·  Did you notice the Coke product placement?  Do those every bug you?

Funny lines:

• "Nobody saw Dory?  That’s a lot of eyeballs doing nothing!” - Hank
• “Suck it Bypeds.” – Hank
• “Everybody does it.  Nothing to be ashamed of.” – Dory, after Hank “inks”
• “Follow me!” – Dory

“You’re in a cup…” – Hank

• “My life’s a rainbow!” – Bailey
• “I don't have a problem with crazy.” – Dory

“You know, I could see that.” – Hank

• “You lost a tentacle?  Then, you’re not an octopus; you’re a septimus. I can count.” – Dory
• “Cuddle party! I’m in!” – Dory
• “Hey dude, if you’re gonna hurl, could you do me a solid and head to the back of the shell and lean out and go for distance?” - Crush
• “We see the undertow and we say…” – Charlie (Dory’s dad)

“Let’s go!” – Dory

• “Righteous!” – Crush (Andrew Stanton, who is also one of the directors and writers of the movie!)

Tips for parents:   

• There is an awkward/funny “when 2 fish love each other” speech Dory begins to give to young children when she thinks she’s supposed to teach “that” class.
• Children (and parents) with any kind of disability will find comfort and inspiration as we watch Dory deal with her short-term “rememory loss.”  The topic is handled very respectfully in the movie.
• Very young children might be frightened by the idea that it’s so easy to get lost from your parents.  Watching the movie can spark an important conversation with your little ones about how to deal with separation, as well as emergencies.
• There is an important lesson for parents to let their children do things for themselves.

The Jungle Book takes CGI to a new level

Movie Title:      The Jungle Book

Grade:   A

Rating:   PG, 1 hour 51 minutes

In a Nutshell:    What do you get when you mix 90% CGI with a Rudyard Kipling remake?  Surprisingly, a beautiful family friendly film.  

Director Jon Favreau gives a respectful nod to the 1967 Disney original, while crafting a new one that is fresh and full of heart.  See it in 3D if you can.

Uplifting theme: 

•  Baloo says, “Everyone’s got a song.” A strong message that comes out in the film is to be yourself, your best self.  We all have our unique strengths and others around us will be blessed when we are true to ourselves and use our talents.
• Another wise thing Baloo says is, “You say you want to go the man village.  I say you can be a man right here.”  We need to stop waiting for something to happen before we live up to our potential.
• Friendship, courage, love.

Things I liked:

• Neel Sethi plays Mowgli, the only human in the movie, yet there is great humanity in the film.  He does an excellent job and is completely adorable.  I love the realistic detail of some scars on his shoulder and chest.  
• Even if we don’t get to see the talented Ben Kingsley, it’s a pleasure to hear his voice as the protective teacher Bagheera.
• Who doesn’t love the carefree Baloo?  Bill Murray’s voice fits perfectly and provides plenty of comic relief, making the audience I sat with laugh almost every time the lovable bear was on the screen.  This ain’t no bear from The Revenant!
• Casting Christopher Walken as the creepy, funny King Louie was perfect. Walken has that reputation in Hollywood.
• Idris Elba voices the scary Shere Khan and provides a villain who is frightening, yet not so much that young children won’t be able to watch the movie.
• Scarlett Johansson’s soothing, tempting voice was also a great choice for Kaa.
• The wolf oath has been borrowed by the Boy Scouts of America, because it teaches some important principles still today!  The 8 year old boys in Cub Scouts repeat a somewhat different version each week in their gatherings.
• Adorable, yet realistic creatures in the jungle.  The porcupine was an especially popular character for the audience.   
• Pay close attention to this fascinating detail…there is a water scene where you actually see water splashes on the camera…but is there really a camera there or was it all CGI?
• Honey IS actually good for scratches and bee stings!

Things I didn’t like:

• There is nothing at the end of credits, so feel free to leave the theater after the last scene.  I was disappointed, because they could have easily added any number of fun nuggets to surprise and delight audiences.
• Some of the CGI looks a little fake, but most of it is actually stunning.

Funny lines:

•  “Bears don’t hibernate in the jungle.” – Bagheera 

“Not full hibernation, but I nap…a lot.” – Baloo

• “I realize you weren’t born a wolf, but couldn’t you just act like one?” - Bagheera
• “If you can’t learn to run with the pack, one of these days, you’ll be someone’s dinner.” – Bagheera
• “He’s walking on two legs!” – animal child at Peace Rock

“Don’t stare!” – animal’s shocked mother

• “What did I tell you?  He’s special.” – Baloo talking about Mowgli

“I know.  I raised him.” - Bagheera

Interesting lines:

• “If it’s meant to be, it will be.” – Raksha (Lupita Nyong’o)
• “You have never been a more endangered species than you are in this moment.” - Baloo 

Tips for parents:   

• There are some animal fight scenes that might frighten very young children.
• Shere Khan has a scarred eye that makes him look scary.
• No profanity.

Other great versions I loved of The Jungle Book :