On Jan. 24, DreamWorks Pictures’ “The Light Between Oceans,” a lush, classical romance, starring two-time Academy Award® nominee Michael Fassbender (Best Actor, Steve Jobs), Oscar® winner Alicia Vikander (Best Supporting Actress, The Danish Girl), and Oscar and Golden Globe® winner Rachel Weisz (Best Supporting Actress, The Constant Gardener), arrives home on Digital HD, Blu-ray™, DVD and On-Demand. The mesmerizingly beautiful film is based on the 2012 best-selling novel by M.L. Stedman, which swept readers away with its transporting story of fate, love, moral dilemmas and the lengths one couple will go to see their hard-fought dreams realized.
This is a book I have been dying to read – but it is so hard for me to find the time in my busy schedule. So naturally I was excited to receive my advance copy of the film so I could at least watch it. I was told to make sure I had tissues near me while watching but WOW, I definitely needed them. This movie was everything I could have hoped for – and I have since purchased the book and am going to make time to read it.
The in-home release includes never-before-seen bonus features, including a documentary which reveals director Derek Cianfrance’s unique approach that allowed the all-star cast to embody their characters and examine the power of love; a historical look at New Zealand’s Cape Campbell Lighthouse that serves as Janus Rock, a key element in Stedman’s novel; and insightful and in-depth audio commentary led by Cianfrance. My personal favorite was the historical look at New Zealand’s Cape Campbell Lighthouse – it is so gorgeous there!
Synopsis DreamWorks Pictures’ “The Light Between Oceans” stars Michael Fassbender as Tom Sherbourne, a young combat veteran and lighthouse keeper on a remote island off the coast of Western Australia; Alicia Vikander as Isabel Graysmark, the beautiful and spirited daughter of the school headmaster on the mainland of Partageuse; Rachel Weisz as Hannah Roennfeld, a resident of Partageuse who is desperately hoping to find her husband and baby lost at sea; Bryan Brown as Septimus Potts, Hannah’s wealthy, influential father; and Jack Thompson as Ralph, a salty, sea-faring skipper. The film is written for the screen and directed by Derek Cianfrance based on the novel by M.L. Stedman and produced by Oscar-nominee David Heyman, p.g.a. and Jeffrey Clifford, p.g.a. The executive producers are Tom Karnowski, Rosie Alison, Jeff Skoll and Jonathan King.
Bringing The Light to Life – For weeks, the cast and crew of “The Light Between Oceans” lived in trailers on Cape Campbell, an isolated region of New Zealand, to film the movie adaptation of the best-selling novel. This documentary chronicles the unique approach and shooting style of director Derek Cianfrance and the production journey that inspired Michael Fassbender, Alicia Vikander and Rachel Weisz to fully embody their characters and explore the power and depths of love.
Audio Commentary – View the film accompanied by an in-depth and thoughtful conversation between director Derek Cianfrance and his film studies professor Phil Solomon.
Lighthouse Keeper – The filmmakers, cast and Cape Campbell Lighthouse inspector/maintainer Rob Sword share the history of the lighthouse and explain the typical duties a lighthouse keeper like Tom Sherbourne would have during an assignment on Janus Island.
As you might already know, I have started doing Nutrisystem again. It helped me lose about 50 lbs a few years ago and it is time to start healthy habits again. On this plan you are allowed what are called Powerfuels and Smartcarbs on top of the Nurtrisystem meals that are sent to you. My husband and I have been coming up with delicious new creations that will count as our Powerfuels and Smartcarbs for the day. As we create hit recipes, I plan to share them here.
Egg salad has always been a favorite in our house, however, the mayonnaise is not very good for you. We decided to come up with a healthier alternative – and it turned out to be amazing! If you are on the Nutrisystem diet, this would count as 1 Powerfuel, 1 Smartcarb, and 1 Extra. If not, this is just a healthy alternative to an egg salad sandwich. Enjoy!
Ingredients
1 Hardboiled Egg
1/2 Tsp. of Fat Free Plain Greek Yogurt
1 Diced Black Olive
1 Sliced Black Olive
4 Banana Pepper Slices
1 Piece of Whole Wheat White Toast
Yellow Mustard Taste
Salt, Pepper, & Paprika to Taste
Franks Hot Sauce to Taste (optional)
Directions
Mix egg, yogurt, diced olive, mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Spread on whole wheat toast.
Top with sliced olive, banana peppers, and Franks hot sauce (if desired).
Alternative Options: If you are not a fan of olives, try tomatoes. If you are looking for a crunch, try diced celery.
In just 42 days (but who is counting, right?) my family and I will be going on a 7 day cruise aboard the Disney Fantasy. I was lucky enough to take my daughters and mother on a 3 day cruise on the Disney Dream last summer. I knew right away it was something we had to do as a family, and for longer the next time. We decided to book this one because it had the Star Wars Day at Sea, and we are HUGE Star Wars fans. Be sure to follow along my social media accounts while we are aboard (Feb 25th to March 4th) and come back here for tips, tricks, and more!
Disney Cruise Line just made an amazing announcement that I had to share with you. In 2018, the epic Star Wars Day at sea returns to Disney Cruise Line with 15 special Disney Fantasy sailings to the Caribbean from January through April. Star Wars Day at Sea transports guests to a galaxy far, far away to celebrate the legendary adventures and iconic characters from the Star Wars saga with Jedi, Wookiees, droids, Stormtroopers and others during the special day-long celebration.
Star Wars Day at Sea summons the power of the Force, the magic of Disney and the excitement of cruising for an out-of-this-galaxy experience unlike any other.
“The Force is stronger than ever onboard the Disney Fantasy, and we are excited to bring back Star Wars Day at Sea in 2018,” said Karl Holz, president of Disney Cruise Line. “The popularity of the event over the past two years inspired us to continue immersing our guests in the Star Wars galaxy. Everyone, from the youngest Padawan to the most knowledgeable Jedi Master, is invited to enjoy this event of galactic proportions and make memories that will last a lifetime.”
The event features a full day of Star Wars celebrations including a deck party spectacular with an extraordinary fireworks display, encounters with the galaxy’s most formidable and heroic characters, Star Wars-themed family and youth activities, unique food and beverage offerings and special merchandise. Throughout the day, guests enjoy immersive entertainment and activities that are all a part of the galactic adventure…
Characters from across the Star Wars galaxy are onboard for interactions and photos.
Guests are encouraged to bring costumes for a special gathering in the atrium lobby.
Guests indulge in the Star Wars films and television series, including all the films in the Star Wars saga, Star Wars Rebels and the latest installment in the new standalone series “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.”
Specialty Star Wars-themed beverages, snacks, dinner menu items and desserts please the palates of everyone from Padawans to Rebel pilots to Tusken Raiders.
Learn the Ways of the Jedi
In “Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple,” Force-sensitive children learn the ways of the Jedi and use their new-found skills in a final face-off with Darth Vader and the Seventh Sister.
Star Wars-themed arts and crafts, games and activities are offered throughout the day in all youth spaces for younglings to explore their powers.
Kids and families test their knowledge during Star Wars trivia games.
“Summon the Force”
The epic day at sea concludes with the “Summon the Force” deck celebration where guests unleash the Force during games, music and a galactic dance party.
The grand finale features legendary Star Wars characters, pyrotechnics, stunts, special effects and a stunning fireworks display accompanied by John Williams’ iconic music.
Star Wars Day at Sea will be on 15 Disney Fantasy seven-night Caribbean cruises sailing from Port Canaveral, Fla.
Departing Jan. 6, 20; Feb. 3, 17; March 3, 17, 31; and April 14, 2018, the western Caribbean itinerary includes Cozumel, Mexico; Falmouth, Jamaica; Grand Cayman, and Disney’s private island in the Bahamas, Castaway Cay.
Departing Jan. 13, 27; Feb. 10, 24; March 10, 24; and April 7, 2018, the eastern Caribbean itinerary includes Tortola, St. Thomas and Castaway Cay.
To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, guests can visit http://www.disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact their travel agent.
Disney provided me with this experience, however, all opinions expressed are my own. This post contains affiliate links.
Disney Junior/David Moir
While at The Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco (on Walt Disney’s birthday!) I was lucky enough to see an advance screening of the first two episodes of Mickey and the Roadster Racers. I knew instantly that this was a show my daughters were going to love. There was so much of the classic Mickey in it, with a great mix of newer stuff – like you get in Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. This show is going to be an immediate hit – I am already eager to start collecting the toys and watching more episodes with my girls. I am super excited to be able to share it with them when it premiers on January 15th! I also got to chat with Mark Seidenberg and Rob Laduca (the executive producers) about the show after watching it. They are such great guys – and I could tell that they love the Mouse and his pals as much as I do! Our conversation with Mark and Rob was amazing. I felt like they really took us in to their world. They explained to us about how they started doing what they do, how they met, and about how much Mickey Mouse and Disney mean to them.
Disney Junior
Talking with Mark Seidenberg & Rob Laduca
Rob Laduca opened by saying “I was just one of those kids my parents didn’t know what to do with, because I was always doodling and drawing. We owned a restaurant, so my father would bring home butcher paper, put it in on the wall, and I would just go crazy – drawing constantly – and it developed into this! So let your kids doodle, that’s all I want to say.” and that really hit home with me. My 5 year old draws constantly. In fact, she gets in trouble at school for doodling in the blank spaces on her papers. So after hearing what Rob had to say, I don’t think I will be as hard on her about that. Mark also added, “I always was drawing when I was a little kid, and, of course, Mickey was one of the first characters that I drew beause he’s all circles, and he was really easy to draw. Later on, when it was college time, I was really interested in being a cartoonist. I went to art school, and I went to film school, and I was totally bit by the animation bug. It was really great. Years later, then Rob and I are working at Disney, which was the place that I always wanted to work at. So for us, this is a real honor to be here on Walt’s birthday, to show what we’ve been working on for the past two years.”
Disney Junior/David Moir
Rob and Mark let us know that they met when working on Gummi Bears, which was one of my favorite shows when I was a little girl. Fast forward to 2005 and Rob started working on Mickey Mouse Clubhouse – and Mark had just come back to Disney to do the Lilo and Stitch TV show. They joined forces on Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and were excited to be able to bring back classic Disney characters. “Mickey was one of those characters I grew up loving. The company was very reticent to use Mickey because he was such a figurehead of the studio. But he was a loved character that really should’ve been used to entertain more generations of children. So it was a real opportunity to develop that show (Mickey Mouse Clubhouse).” Mark explained. “What we tried to do on that show was bringing life back to the characters – Mickey, Donald, Goofy, Minnie and Daisy – and making them lots of fun. The show dealt with curriculum – Clubhouse dealt with mathematics. We wanted to make it more than just Mickey talking to the kids like a teacher. We started creating musical numbers – and we made sure that Goofy was Goofy! So the kids were being entertained, but they were also being educated at the same time.” I must say, they did a great job with it. Mickey Mouse Clubhouse is a hit in our home. My girls are 4 and 5 and they still love it. A day doesn’t go by without us watching at least one episode. I love it, and I swear my girls have learned a lot from it. I credit some of their smarts to Mickey and the gang!
When Rob and Mark were asked to develop a new show together, they asked what the most popular Mickey Mouse Clubhouse was to get some ideas. The answer? Clubhouse Road Rally. “That involved every character who had their own little car that fit their personality. So we expanded on that and we gave Mickey a classic hotrod – it’s his normal car from Clubhouse, and then it turns into this classic American Roadster. Goofy’s personality, being so goofy, if his car could transform, what would it transform into? A bathtub. And Minnie being elegant, and into fashion, we went with kind of a bow car, but basically the design comes from a French car called a Delahaye that had very smooth curves, and looked kinda like a bow. Donald is a sailor, so we created the Cabin Cruise – and his is the only roadster, at this point, that can go on land and in the water.” Mark explained.
Disney Junior
We learned that there are a lot of celebrity voices in Mickey and the Roadster Racers, including Jay Leno! Mark told us that Rob, himself, and a lot of the artists actually went to check out Jay’s car collection to get some sketch ideas. Apparently Jay gave them the tour himself and at the end Mark asked him if he would be interested in voicing the race announcer, Billy Beagle. Jay started doing the voice right then and there! I guess he is a huge Disney fan, I mean, who isn’t, right? One little fun fact the guys let us in on is that whenever Jay comes to do a recording, he is always in a different car.
Disney Junior/David Moir
“This whole journey for this show has been an absolute thrill, and especially now on Walt’s birthday. This was a character that he held so close to his heart. This was his beginning. So it’s a real honor to expand Mickey into the future. Walt was a total innovator. Walt was always the first to experiment with sound, and color, and all kinds of things – I like to think of this as an extension. If Walt was alive today, he would have been the first one to use computer animation. There was a lot of studio people who didn’t want to experiment with computer animation way back when, but I know Walt would’ve charged right into it. He brought us animatronics, and all the parks. He was such a thinker – I love that we can expand on his vision.”
Disney Junior/David Moir
I found it really interesting when they explained how animation has changed since they started working on Gummi Bears. “We do everything on computers now – everything from color to designing the cars, to the backgrounds. That’s really broadened our opportunities. It used to take so long to do a painting [with] water colors or acrylics – and to paint the cells – you have to do each one. 24 frames per second is a lot of drawings that were involved. So it broadened our world which is so dimensional.” They explained that as a director and having the computer as a tool now, you can move the camera in that space and create a lot more fun and adventure. The world becomes more dimensional, and I find that so fascinating. I guess I never really thought of it that way. When we asked them who their favorite character was, they let us know it was like choosing a favorite child – basically impossible. they said they have a soft spot for each of them. Mickey is a favorite because he is “everybody’s best friend” and Goofy because “all of us feel a little goofy“.
Don’t worry parents, Mickey Mouse and the Roadster Racers toys are already available – and they look awesome! I know that I will be stocking up on the toys for my girls because this is sure to be a new favorite show in our home. One of the coolest things about my day and learning about this new show is that we got to see Mickey Mouse in his brand new racing outfit (and it was Mark and Rob’s first time seeing him in it too!). I absolutely love Mickey and always enjoy my encounters with him. We even got to take our photos with Mickey, Mark, and Rob. Later in the day, my friend and I ran into Mark and Rob in the gift shop. We chatted a bit and had another great conversation – this was truly a day that I will always remember.
Giving our favorite mouse a kiss with Joyce from WomenandtheirPretties.net! Credit: Disney Junior/David Moir
About Mickey and the Roadster Racers
The series takes Mickey and the gang, along with their unique transforming vehicles, on humorous high-spirited races around the globe, as well as hometown capers in Hot Dog Hills. Off the racetrack, Minnie and Daisy also run their own successful business as Happy Helpers, solving problems for anyone in need of a helping hand. Geared towards kids 2-7, the stories are designed to impart social and emotional lessons about friendship, teamwork, optimism and good sportsmanship.
NASCAR stars Jimmie Johnson, Danica Patrick and Jeff Gordon recur as race car drivers Jiminy Johnson, Danni Sue and Gordon Gear, respectively. Additional guest stars include television personality Jay Leno as announcer Billy Beagle; Tim Gunn (“Project Runway”) as Robbie Roberts; Gordon Ramsay (“MasterChef”) as Chef Oxley; Hoda Kotb (“The Today Show”) as Mrs. Sweetums; Peter Serafinowicz (“Guardians of the Galaxy”) as Dr. Crutchley; Jane Leeves (“Frasier”) as the Queen of England; Fred Willard (“Best in Show”) as Mr. Doozy; Hector Elizondo (“Last Man Standing”) as Grandpa Beagle; Tony Shalhoub (“Monk”) as Luigi; Kate Micucci (“Garfunkel and Oates”) as Emmy Lou; Tia Carrere (“Wayne’s World”) as Antie Olina; and comedian Patton Oswalt as Mr. McSnorter.
Mickey and the Roadster Racers will make its television debut in a simulcast SUNDAY, JANUARY 15 (9:00 and 9:25 a.m. EST), on Disney Channel and Disney Junior. Two more episodes will premiere MONDAY, JANUARY 16 (9:00 and 9:25 a.m. EST), on Disney Channel. Episodes will also be available on the Disney Junior app and Disney Junior VOD beginning Sunday, January 15, and on iTunes beginning Monday, January 16.
Dive into a magical adventure the whole family will enjoy when Guardians of Oz arrives on DVD, Digital HD and On Demand January 24 from Lionsgate. The world of Oz is fantastically recreated with story and character design by Golden Globe®-nominated filmmaker Jorge Gutiérrez (The Book of Life). Starring YouTube sensations @jennxpenn and Mikey Bolts, the classic tale is revamped into delightful animation featuring new characters in an original story. It even earned the Dove Foundation’s seal of approval. My girls and I were thrilled to receive an advance copy.
We have a family movie night once a week, but as soon as this arrived we made an exception and added another. Both of my girls were glued to the screen for the whole movie – and they have watched it several times again since! They are 4 and 5 years old and this movie was perfect for their age. My husband and I really enjoyed it as well. I highly recommend it for families of young kids.
Synopsis
Wicked witch Eviline (Ambyr Childers) tries to steal back the broom that holds her powers, but Ozzy, a kindhearted flying monkey, snags it instead. Hoping to rescue his father, Ozzy joins forces with cheeky young sorceress Gabby. But can they find the Lion, Scarecrow, and Tin Woodman — and lift the enchanted spells Eviline has imprisoned them with? Visionary animator Jorge Gutiérrez (The Book of Life) continues the enchanted saga of Oz in this dazzlingly funny family adventure. Pre-Order or Purchase here.
DVD/DIGITAL HD SPECIAL FEATURES
Behind-the-Scenes Featurette
TV’s “Minuscule” Episodes
“Wasp Belle”
“A Snail’s Dream”
“Chewing Gum”
“Bananas”
Enter to win a copy of Guardians of Oz using the Gleam form below. There will be TWO winners! While you are here, check out my other giveaways and GOOD LUCK!
I have always dreamed of being able to visit The Walt Disney Family Museum because I am a Disney fanatic. So imagine how excited I was to find out that as part of the #RogueOneEvent trip I was taking to San Francisco in December, we would be going! I grew up watching Disney movies and going to Disney World for family vacations – and now I take my family to Disney World at least once a year. So this was going to be a really special experience for me – and it was. I laughed, I smiled, and I cried (I mean sobbed – just as Joyce from Women and Their Pretties – she was sobbing with me) while I was there.
But the thing that really stood out to me was the Wish Upon A Star: The Art of Pinocchio Exhibit. One of my all time favorite Disney movies is Pinocchio. I have watched it at least 50 times, if not 100. I have shown it to my two young daughters and they love it just as much as I did when I was their age. It is one of the classics and there is just something about it that makes me all warm inside. The exhibit was all that I could have hoped for, and more. The exhibit features more than 300 objects and takes a closer look at the settings, color, mood, character relationships, and style of Pinocchio. I was genuinely taken aback while walking through the exhibit – there was so much to see! From actual models that were used by the animators to original sketches. It was really special to be there and to be able to see everything in person – I cannot explain the way it made me feel.
Spending the day at The Walt Disney Museum made that day one of the best days of my life. The entire museum is amazing – and a must see for any Disney fan. I hope that you were lucky enough to check out the Wish Upon a Star: The Art of Pinocchio exhibit because it was amazing. I loved seeing how Pinocchio came to life. I am really excited that Pinocchio is coming to vibrant new life for the first time on Digital HD and Disney Movies Anywhere TODAY (January 10) and on Blu-ray and DVD on January 31.
ABOUT THE FILM
From the mid-1930s to the mid-1940s, The Walt Disney Studios created five cinematic classics that explored new possibilities and redefined the art of animation: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937), Pinocchio (1940), Fantasia (1940), Dumbo (1941), and Bambi (1942). Produced at the end of the Depression in the late-1930s, Pinocchio brilliantly deployed state-of-the-art hand-crafted drawings and various technical breakthroughs—such as the Multiplane Camera—to tell an epic story. Touted by many as the crowning achievement of the extraordinary Golden Age of Walt Disney’s early studio, this groundbreaking film pioneered cutting-edge animation and sound technologies and firmly established a blueprint for Disney filmmaking that remains intact today. It became the first animated feature film to win a competitive Academy Award®—in fact it won two—and is now considered one of the finest films ever made.
ABOUT THE MUSEUM
The Walt Disney Family Museum presents the fascinating story and achievements of Walt Disney, the man who raised animation to the level of fine art, transformed the film industry, tirelessly pursued innovation, and created a global yet distinctively American legacy. Opened in October 2009, the 40,000 square foot facility features the newest technology along with a vast collection of historic materials and artifacts to bring Disney’s achievements to life, myriad interactive galleries presenting early drawings and animation, movies, music, listening stations, a spectacular model of Disneyland and much more.
The Walt Disney Family Museum has created many world-class exhibitions, such as Disney and Dalí: Architects of the Imagination; MAGIC, COLOR, FLAIR: the world of Mary Blair; and Water to Paper, Paint to Sky: The Art of Tyrus Wong, several of which have traveled to other museums around the world. Wish Upon a Star: The Art of Pinocchio is the fifteenth exhibition originated by museum since 2012.
Hours: 10am to 6pm, Wednesdays through Monday; closed on Tuesdays and the following public holidays: New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Tickets: Museum and special exhibition admission is free for members and children under 5 General admission + special exhibition: $30 adults, $25 seniors and students, $22 youth ages 6 to 17 General admission: $20 adults, $15 seniors and students, and $12 youth ages 6 to 17 Stand-alone special exhibition ticket: $10 all levels Audio guide: free for members as download, $7 audio guide rental for members and non-members
Public Media Distribution is re-releasing the Oscar-nominated The Gruffalo and the sequel The Gruffalo’s Child on DVD January 10 – and I for one, could not be any more excited! These are two of my favorite movies and I was super excited to share them with my young daughters! We were so lucky to receive advanced copies and we watched them together as a family. My girls are totally in love with The Gruffalo now! I plan to pick them up copies of the books ASAP.
Both of these films are based on beloved children’s books written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler, and feature an all-star cast of voices. Some of the featured voice talent in both films includes Helena Bonham Carter (Harry Potter), Robbie Coltrane (Harry Potter), James Corden (The Late Late Show with James Corden), John Hurt (Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull), and Tom Wilkinson (Batman Begins).
About The Gruffalo
This enchanting tale tells the story of a mouse who walks through the woods in search of a nut. Along the way, he encounters a hungry fox, owl, and snake who all think the mouse looks good to eat! Forced to rely on his wits for survival, Mouse invents an imaginary monster with frightening features to scare them away, but what happens when he comes face-to-face with his own creation? Purchase here.
About The Gruffalo’s Child One snowy night, the Gruffalo’s Child ignores her father’s warning and bravely tiptoes out of their cave into the deep dark wood in search of the Big Bad Mouse. On her journey, she meets Snake, Owl, and Fox but no sign of the fabled Mouse. He doesn’t really exist…or does he? Purchase here.
Enter to win a copy of The Gruffalo and The Grufflo’s Child using the Gleam form below. Be sure to check out my other giveaways while you are here and GOOD LUCK!
Kids are all heading back to school after winter break – so why not give them something to be excited about. I always loved decorating my locker but they have so many more amazing things to do that with now-a-days! I never had cool things like this:
The list above is my top ten locker decorations from Amazon. I would have loved them when I was in school! I did let my 5 year old pick out her favorites, and while she doesn’t have a locker just yet, she does have a cubby she is allowed to decorate at school. She chose the following a cork board, a dry erase board, and of course, a colorful set of dry erase markers. She already had a mirror up in her cubby.
The New York Times best-selling series by James Patterson breaks all the rules when Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life arrived on Blu-ray (plus Digital HD), DVD, and On Demand January 3 from Lionsgate and CBS Films. This hilarious, family-friendly leap from the page to the big screen stars Griffin Gluck (Batman vs. Robin) alongside Lauren Graham (TV’s “Gilmore Girls”), Rob Riggle (The Hangover), Thomas Barbusca (TV’s “Wet Hot American Summer: First Day of Camp”), Andy Daly (Semi-Pro), Adam Pally (Dirty Grandpa), Isabela Moner (TV’s “100 Things to Do Before High School”), Isabella Amara (The Boss) and Alexa Nisenson (TV’s “Constantine”.)
Rafe has an epic imagination…and a slight problem with authority. Both collide when he transfers to a rule-crazy middle school. Drowning in do’s and don’ts, Rafe and his best friend Leo hatch a plan to expose the principal by breaking every rule in the school’s Code of Conduct. As the principal strikes back, Rafe’s world, at home and at school, explodes into hilarious chaos (both real and imagined) in this laugh-filled family comedy based on James Patterson’s best-selling book series.
The Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life home entertainment release special features include four behind-the-scenes featurettes, a hilarious gag reel plus four deleted scenes, including one hilarious animated sequence. Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life is directed by Steve Carr with screenplay by Chris Bowman & Hubbel Palmer and Kara Holden. Executive produced by James Patterson and Steve Bowen. Produced by Leopoldo Gout and Bill Robinson.
BLU-RAY/DVD/DIGITAL HD SPECIAL FEATURES
“That Middle School Life” Featurette
“Middle School = The Worst / Making Movies = The Best” Featurette
Enter to win a $30 Amazon Gift Card so you can pick out some Locker Swag using the Gleam form below. Be sure to check out my other giveaways while you are here and GOOD LUCK!
This year is going to be another incredible year of films from Walt Disney Studios. There is not one movie on their slate that I am not excited to see. There isn’t even a way to rank them in order of my excitement (I literally just tried four times and had to keep rewriting my list). Here is what Walt Disney Studios has in store for us in 2017 – and hold on to your hats because it is amazing!
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
(Walt Disney Studios)
March 17, 2017 #BeautyAndTheBeast #BeOurGuest
I grew up LOVING the classic Beauty and the Beast. When I was little you could always find me with my nose in a book, so I really understood Belle. She has always been my favorite princess, making the tale as old as time one of my favorite Disney films. I love Emma Watson and am really looking forward to seeing her take on Belle. This is one I have been counting the days down to for a long time.
About
The story and characters audiences know and love come to spectacular life in the live-action adaptation of Disney’s animated classic “Beauty and the Beast,” a stunning, cinematic event celebrating one of the most beloved tales ever told. “Beauty and the Beast” is the fantastic journey of Belle, a bright, beautiful and independent young woman who is taken prisoner by a Beast in his castle. Despite her fears, she befriends the castle’s enchanted staff and learns to look beyond the Beast’s hideous exterior and realize the kind heart of the true Prince within. The film stars: Emma Watson as Belle; Dan Stevens as the Beast; Luke Evans as Gaston, the handsome, but shallow villager who woos Belle; Kevin Kline as Maurice, Belle’s father; Josh Gad as LeFou, Gaston’s long-suffering aide-de-camp; Ewan McGregor as Lumière, the candelabra; Stanley Tucci as Maestro Cadenza, the harpsichord; Audra McDonald as Madame de Garderobe, the wardrobe; Gugu Mbatha-Raw as Plumette, the feather duster; Hattie Morahan as the enchantress; and Nathan Mack as Chip, the teacup; with Ian McKellen as Cogsworth, the mantel clock; and Emma Thompson as the teapot, Mrs. Potts.
Directed by Bill Condon based on the 1991 animated film, “Beauty and the Beast,” the screenplay is written by Stephen Chbosky and Evan Spiliotopoulos and produced by Mandeville Films’ David Hoberman, p.g.a. and Todd Lieberman, p.g.a. with Jeffrey Silver, Thomas Schumacher and Don Hahn serving as executive producers. Alan Menken, who won two Academy Awards® (Best Original Score and Best Song) for the animated film, provides the score, which includes new recordings of the original songs written by Menken and Howard Ashman, as well as three new songs written by Menken and Tim Rice. “Beauty and the Beast” will be released in U.S. theaters on March 17, 2017.
I love wanting Disneynature movies with my daughters – and this is one we are all really looking forward to seeing in 2017!
About
Narrated by John Krasinski (“13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi,” NBC’s “The Office,” “Amazon’s “Jack Ryan”), Disneynature’s new True Life Adventure film “Born In China” takes an epic journey into the wilds of China where few people have ever ventured. Following the stories of three animal families, the film transports audiences to some of the most extreme environments on Earth to witness some of the most intimate moments ever captured in a nature film. A doting panda bear mother guides her growing baby as she begins to explore and seek independence. A two-year-old golden monkey who feels displaced by his new baby sister joins up with a group of free-spirited outcasts. And a mother snow leopard—an elusive animal rarely caught on camera—faces the very real drama of raising her two cubs in one of the harshest and most unforgiving environments on the planet. Featuring stunning, never-before-seen imagery, the film navigates China’s vast terrain—from the frigid mountains to the heart of the bamboo forest—on the wings of red-crowned cranes, seamlessly tying the extraordinary tales together. Opening in U.S. theaters on Earth Day 2017, “Born in China” is directed by accomplished Chinese filmmaker Lu Chuan, and produced by Disney’s Roy Conli and renowned nature filmmakers Brian Leith and Phil Chapman.
I am a total comic book nerd and Guardians of the Galaxy has always been one of my favorite series. I loved the first film and have seen it more times than I can count. When I got the chance to go ON THE SET of GotG Vol. 2, I jumped at it. It is one of my favorite memories – keep checking back for exclusive interviews and to find out all the fun I had on set. This movie is going to be even better than the first, and that is pretty impressive if you ask me.
About
Set to the all-new sonic backdrop of Awesome Mixtape #2, Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” continues the team’s adventures as they traverse the outer reaches of the cosmos. The Guardians must fight to keep their newfound family together as they unravel the mystery of Peter Quill’s true parentage. Old foes become new allies and fan-favorite characters from the classic comics will come to our heroes’ aid as the Marvel Cinematic Universe continues to expand.
Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” is directed by James Gunn and stars Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, featuring Vin Diesel as Groot, Bradley Cooper as Rocket, Michael Rooker, Karen Gillan, Pom Klementieff, Elizabeth Debicki, Chris Sullivan, Sean Gunn, Tommy Flanagan, Laura Haddock and Kurt Russell. Kevin Feige is producing, and Louis D’Esposito, Jonathan Schwartz, Victoria Alonso, Nik Korda and Stan Lee are the executive producers. The screenplay is by James Gunn. Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” blasts into theaters on May 5, 2017.
PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MEN TELL NO TALES
(Walt Disney Studios)
May 26, 2017 #PiratesOfTheCaribbean #APiratesDeathForMe
I love the Pirates of the Caribbean series. They started coming out way back when I was in college (boy that makes me feel old) and I remember going to see them with my friends. They are always fun, a little scary, and have a great story to them. I cannot wait until my girls are a little bit older so I can share them with them. Johnny Depp is amazing as Captain Jack Sparrow – and I am really looking forward to this movie.
About
Johnny Depp returns to the big screen as the iconic, swashbuckling anti-hero Jack Sparrow in the all-new “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales.” The rip-roaring adventure finds down-on-his-luck Captain Jack feeling the winds of ill-fortune blowing strongly his way when deadly ghost sailors, led by the terrifying Captain Salazar (Javier Bardem), escape from the Devil’s Triangle bent on killing every pirate at sea—notably Jack. Jack’s only hope of survival lies in the legendary Trident of Poseidon, but to find it he must forge an uneasy alliance with Carina Smyth (Kaya Scodelario), a brilliant and beautiful astronomer, and Henry (Brenton Thwaites), a headstrong young sailor in the Royal Navy. At the helm of the Dying Gull, his pitifully small and shabby ship, Captain Jack seeks not only to reverse his recent spate of ill fortune, but to save his very life from the most formidable and malicious foe he has ever faced.
“Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales” also stars Kevin R. McNally as Joshamee Gibbs, Golshifteh Farahani as the sea-witch Shansa, David Wenham as Scarfield, Stephen Graham as Scrum, and Geoffrey Rush as Captain Hector Barbossa.
Joachim Rønning and Espen Sandberg are directing “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales” with Jerry Bruckheimer producing. The executive producers are Mike Stenson, Chad Oman, Joe Caracciolo, Jr., Terry Rossio and Brigham Taylor. Jeff Nathanson wrote the screenplay. “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales” drops anchor in U.S. theaters on May 26, 2017.
Disney/Pixar movies are always amazing. One of my favorites has always been Cars (and Cars 2). My girls love Lightning McQueen and Mater and their stories. We watch these movies at least a few times a year. We are all really looking forward to Cars 3. I must say, I am a little worried for Lightning – but I know he will pull though, and I can’t wait to see it on the big screen!
About
Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers, the legendary Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) is suddenly pushed out of the sport he loves. To get back in the game, he will need the help of an eager young race technician, Cruz Ramirez (voice of Cristela Alonzo), with her own plan to win, plus inspiration from the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet and a few unexpected turns. Proving that #95 isn’t through yet will test the heart of a champion on Piston Cup Racing’s biggest stage!
Directed by Brian Fee (storyboard artist “Cars,” “Cars 2“) and produced by Kevin Reher (“A Bug’s Life,” “La Luna” short), “Cars 3” cruises into theaters on June 16, 2017.
THOR: RAGNAROK
(Marvel Studios)
November 3, 2017 #ThorRagnarok
As most of you know, I am a huge Marvel fan. So of course I am really looking forward to this film to see what Thor has been up to in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. I just know this is going to be another great film. And I can’t wait to see him take on Hulk!
About
In Marvel Studios’ “Thor: Ragnarok,” Thor is imprisoned on the other side of the universe without his mighty hammer and finds himself in a race against time to get back to Asgard to stop Ragnarok—the destruction of his homeworld and the end of Asgardian civilization—at the hands of an all-powerful new threat, the ruthless Hela. But first he must survive a deadly gladiatorial contest that pits him against his former ally and fellow Avenger—the Incredible Hulk!
“Thor: Ragnarok” is directed by Taika Waititi and returns Chris Hemsworth starring as Thor and Tom Hiddleston reprising his role as Loki. They are joined by Cate Blanchett, Idris Elba, Jeff Goldblum, Tessa Thompson and Karl Urban, with Mark Ruffalo and Anthony Hopkins.
Kevin Feige is producing with Louis D’Esposito, Brad Winderbaum, Victoria Alonso, Thomas M. Hammel and Stan Lee serving as executive producers. The story is by Craig Kyle & Christopher Yost and Stephany Folsom, and the screenplay is by Eric Pearson. “Thor: Ragnarok” thunders into U.S. theaters on November 3, 2017.
COCO
(Disney / Pixar)
November 22, 2017 #Coco
Ever since learning about this film at the D23 Expo in the summer of 2015, I have been looking forward to seeing it. I can tell it is going to be a heartwarming story filled with adventure that the whole family will love.
About
Despite his family’s baffling generations-old ban on music, Miguel (voice of newcomer Anthony Gonzalez) dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz (voice of Benjamin Bratt). Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead following a mysterious chain of events. Along the way, he meets charming trickster Hector (voice of Gael García Bernal), and together, they set off on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history. Directed by Lee Unkrich (“Toy Story 3”), co-directed by Adrian Molina (story artist “Monsters University”) and produced by Darla K. Anderson (“Toy Story 3”), Disney•Pixar’s “Coco” opens in U.S. theaters on Nov. 22, 2017.
STAR WARS: EPISODE VIII
(Lucasfilm)
December 15, 2017 #StarWarsVIII
Star Wars: The Force Awakens blew me away. It was an incredible continuation of the series that I have grown up loving. I am dying to see how the story moves forward with Episode VIII!
If you know anything about me, you know I am a Disney fanatic. I mean, I bleed Disney. Recently, my family and I took our third Disney World vacation together and we decided to splurge. Thanks to some deals Disney was offering, we were able to book our bucket list hotel – Animal Kingdom Lodge. This hotel has been a must for our family since we found out about it. It is a bit pricey, but that is why we saved and took advantage of a discount. We just knew we had to stay there. It exceeded all of our expectations and I urge you to book your next Disney World stay there. Here’s why.
The View
Go all in when you stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge – get yourself a Savannah View room. Trust me, just do it. From the moment we walked in to our room, we were thrilled with our selection. From our balcony we could see giraffes, antelope, birds, ankole cattle, and more! We were even provided with a checklist booklet so we could check off the animals as we see them – which the girls LOVED doing every morning and night. There is nothing like waking up and looking out the window to see giraffes having their breakfast. Every morning my husband and I enjoyed our coffee out on the balcony while watching the animals before we got the girls up and ready for the parks. There is nothing like it, and I still dream of those mornings. Peaceful and serene, with a great view!
Boma
I had been told that Boma was a delicious buffet restaurant option at Animal Kingdom Lodge and that you needed to go hungry. Well boy oh boy was that true! We went for breakfast one morning and the food was amazing. Not only that, there were so many options to choose from. I walked away stuffed full. No breakfast will ever compare – and I heard that dinner is amazing as well!
Dining Plan
You can only partake in the incredible savings and ease of a Disney Dining Plan if you stay in a park resort. I cannot stress enough how much easier this makes your trip – and how much money you can save. We have done the math and we save hundreds when we do use the meal plan. I cannot imagine going to Disney and not doing the meal plan.
The Rooms
Not even considering the view, the rooms at Animal Kingdom Lodge are amazing. Ours had a double sink, two large beds, a huge TV, and a refrigerator. We actually ended up extending our stay one day so that we could enjoy the hotel room and relax after 5 fun filled days in the parks. The service is amazing, exactly what you would expect from Disney. These are top notch rooms – you get what you pay for, guys.
Kid’s Activities
Animal Kingdom Lodge has a series of kid’s activities that my girls could not wait to participate in. There are eight different ones and once completed, the kids will all earn a bead. These beads are used to create a necklace for them – and they can all be done in one day. This is the perfect way to keep kids busy if you stay an extra day at the hotel to relax and not go to the parks. My girls still wear their necklaces almost daily. They love telling all their friends about how they earned the different beads.
Now, I know this is one of the more expensive Disney hotels – but I am telling you, stay there at least once.
You will not regret it!
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