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3 Things You Need to See When Visiting Ottawa Canada

Tessa Smith
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3 Things You Need to See When Visiting Ottawa Canada

Ottawa

I recently took a long weekend trip to Ottawa, Canada with my family. We are lucky enough that we live a short 3 hour drive away in Upstate New York. We have spent plenty of time in Canada already since we moved here just 3 short years ago, but this was our first time in the country’s capital.

It was kind of a whirlwind trip as we decided last minute to check out a winter festival that we had just learned about – Winterlude – and boy are we glad that we did. The city itself is amazing, the architecture is incredible. We are already planning a summer trip back so that we can spend more time walking around the city and taking it all in (it was negative 30 degrees there so we were not spending much time walking around). If you are planning on visiting Canada for the first time, remember, as there is so much that you’d want to see, it may be in your best interest to do a quick google search into something like Comfort Tour Canada and find out what the best way would be to see Canada for the beautiful country is is known for.

Canadian Museum of History   Canadian Museum of History   Canadian Museum of History   Canadian Museum of History

Canadian Museum of History

The Canadian Museum of History has so much to offer. There was a lot more to it than we expected and we did not even get to see everything there. If we had known, we would have arrived earlier than we did (we got there about an hour after they opened). Inside the museum not only are there different exhibits, there are actually several different museums.

There is a war museum, an IMAX theater, and even a children’s museum – not to mention the different areas for special exhibits. The exhibit going on while we were there is the Vikings exhibit. I am bummed that we missed this so we could check out the Thomas the Train Exhibit going on in the Children’s Museum area (open until May 1, 2016), but the kids always come first, right?

Speaking of the Children’s Museum, they have “passports” that the kids can take around to different exhibits and get stamped after they check them out. My daughters loved doing this – and were excited to have their own special souvenirs from the trip. While the museum is not technically in Ottawa, it is just a short drive across the boarder into Quebec.  Find out more about the Canadian Museum of History here.

Canadian Museum of Nature   Canadian Museum of Nature   Canadian Museum of Nature   Canadian Museum of Nature

Canadian Museum of Nature

One stop that should be a must visit on everyone’s list is the Canadian Museum of Nature. When we went, the special exhibition was Bugs: Outside the Box (open until March 28, 2016) and we just knew we had to go because my girls are fascinated with bugs and insects. This exhibit was amazing! There were so many bugs to check out – alive and dead – and the whole family enjoyed seeing them. There were fun activities the kids could do like roll “dung balls”, jump like a grasshopper, and even eat bugs!

My daughters said they were excited to do this but they both chickened out – my husband did enjoy some honey mustard crickets though (and I Periscoped it LIVE for my followers to see). There were many other exhibits and halls where you could explore under the sea, learn about dinosaurs and early mammals, see what makes the Earth and rocks, and so much more! We ended up spending the entire day there – there was so much to see!

We cannot wait to go back this summer because the new special exhibit will be Ultimate Dinosaurs! Find out more about the Canadian Museum of Nature here.

Winterlude   Winterlude   Winterlude   Winterlude

Winterlude

If you are lucky enough to be able to go during this three-weekend festival, there is so much to do. You will not believe your eyes when you see all that they have to offer. There are giant ice slides (individual and family size), kick sleds, performances, and so much more.

And don’t get worried about being too cold because they have heated refuges where you can get warm and enjoy a drink at the same time.  My daughters had the time of their lives there – and so did my husband and I. We can’t wait to go back next year – it will be a Smith family tradition for sure!

Assassin’s Creed Chronicles In Stores Now!

Tessa Smith
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Assassin’s Creed Chronicles In Stores Now!

Disclosure: Mama Smith’s Review Blog received this item in exchange for her honest review. All opinions expressed are 100% hers.

Assassin's Creed Chronicles

The Assassin’s Creed franchise has always taken fans to exotic locations and time periods to explore – from the Italian Renaissance to the American Revolution. This year is no different! This time, the Assassins are headed to India and Russia in the Assassin’s Creed Chronicles! Players will journey to distinct civilizations throughout history, including the Sikh Empire as it prepares for war in India and the aftermath of the Red October Revolution in Russia. I have gotten a chance to play this game and since I put it in, I could not stop! This game is amazing! I love playing all three of them.

Now, I am a long time fan of this series – but whether you are a long-time fan of Assassin’s Creed like me, or a newcomer, Assassin’s Creed Chronicles lets you discover what has made the franchise one of the most celebrated in video game history in a fresh genre for the series. Each chapter is a new beginning and comes with a unique hero from the Assassin’s Creed universe in a never-seen-before setting. While each Assassin’s story stands on its own, the chronicle is tied together narratively (and I for one, love this!).

Assassin’s Creed Chronicles brings the thrill of being a Master Assassin to 2.5D. Scout, sneak, and hide to avoid detection. Fool your enemies by using whistles and disguises. Find your target, kill, and escape. As in every Assassin’s Creed experience, freedom of movement is essential. Whether you’re running from danger, scaling obstacles, or climbing stealthily, you will feel that you really can do anything. Switch between fore, mid, and background environments and choose different paths according to your needs. Open new pathways, complete side missions, grab hidden collectibles, or take the quickest path to your target.

Assassin’s Creed Chronicles: China
Assassin’s Creed Chronicles: China takes place in China, 1526, as the Ming dynasty starts to crumble. You embody Shao Jun, the last remaining Assassin of the Chinese Brotherhood, returning to her homeland with a vendetta. Newly trained by the legendary Ezio Auditore, she is hell-bent on exacting vengeance and restoring her fallen Brotherhood.

Assassin’s Creed Chronicles: India
Assassin’s Creed Chronicles: India throws you into the tension between the Sikh Empire and the East India Company in 1841. When a Master Templar arrives with a mysterious item that used to belong to the Assassin Order, Arbaaz Mir must discover why he’s come, steal back the item, and protect his friends and his lover.

Assassin’s Creed Chronicles: Russia
Assassin’s Creed Chronicles: Russia occurs in Russia, 1918. Nikolai Orelov wants to leave with his family, but is required to perform one last mission for the Assassin Order: infiltrate the house where the tsar’s family is being held by the Bolsheviks and steal an artifact that has been fought over by Assassins and Templars for centuries. Along the way, he witnesses the massacre of the tsar’s children, but manages to save the princess, Anastasia. He must escape the Templars while protecting the artifact and Anastasia.

Assassin’s Creed Chronicles is available NOW on PS4, Xbox One and PC!

Connect with Ubisoft on Social Media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ubisoftus
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ubisoft
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ubisoft
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBMvc6jvuTxH6TNo9ThpYjg

FanGirl Friday

SNOWTIME! Hits Select Theaters Tomorrow

Tessa Smith
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0
SNOWTIME! Hits Select Theaters Tomorrow

Disclosure: Mama Smith’s Review Blog received this item in exchange for her honest review. All opinions expressed are 100% hers.

snowtime-group-image

My family and I recently took a trip to Ottawa, Canada for the Winterlude festival (more coming on that in a post tomorrow). Little did we all know that a part of the activities would be themed for SNOWTIME! – a movie that we had waiting at our house for us to screen from Shout Kids. I only wish that we had received it before we left so we could have been more familiar with it as we were exploring all the stuff they had set up. There were snowmen with the clothing and faces of the characters, snowball fight arenas set up, and they were even giving away pins with the title (in French) of the movie and the characters on it. My girls love theirs!

So imagine their surprise when we got home and I popped in the film – they instantly recognized the kids and were glued to the screen! We watched the movie straight through and that is saying a lot considering my girls are 3 and 4 and usually have a handful of reasons to pause a movie. I laughed almost the entire film, and so did my daughters. This is a great family film – it is so much fun! The music is great and the story is hilarious. This is a must seee for families in my book!

Snowtime   Snowtime   Snowtime   Snowtime

Synopsis
New animated feature SNOWTIME! is a romp through childhood full of heart and humor. To amuse themselves during the winter school break, the kids in a small village decide to have a massive snowball fight. Luke and Sophie, both 11 years old, become the leaders of the opposing sides. Sophie and her cohorts defend an elaborate snow fort against the assault of Luke’s horde. Whichever side occupies the fort at the end of the winter break, wins. But what starts out as pure youthful fun and enthusiasm deteriorates into a more serious conflict, where children learn valuable life lessons on friendship, the importance of unity, and the emotional consequences of vicious rivalry. The film’s underlying message – neither side wins in war – is as relevant today as ever.

Based on the acclaimed live-action film classic La Guerre des Tuques (The Dog Who Stopped the War), SNOWTIME! is a captivating cinematic adventure about hope and friendship. The film explores the sometimes mercurial relations between friends during childhood, and the role that enthusiastic competition and energizing solidarity play in the lives of children.

SNOWTIME! will be in select theaters nationwide February 19, 2016 releasing digitally on iTunes and other VOD platforms March 1st!

Visit the SNOWTIME! Official Website Here: http://www.snowtimemovie.com/
Like Shout Kids on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShoutKids
Follow Shout Kids on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShoutFactory

snowtime-poster-lg

Directed by: Jean-François Pouliot
Co-director: François Brisson
Produced by: Marie-Claude Beauchamp
Screenplay by: Normand Canac-Marquis, Paul Risacher
MPAA Rating: PG

Voice Cast: Ross Lynch, Golden Globe®-Winner Sandra Oh, Angela Gallupo, Lucinda Davis, Sonja Ball, Don Shepherd, Jenna Wheeler, Heidi Lynne Weeks, Elisabeth MacRae, Holly Gauthier.

Songs performed by: Celine Dion, Simple Plan, Walk Off The Earth, Marie-Mai, Groenland

Marvel Studios Begins Production on GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 2

Tessa Smith
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Marvel Studios Begins Production on GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY VOL. 2

gotg2

As most of you know I am a giant Marvel fan. I have been reading the comics all my life and so I have been loving the movies that Disney has been releasing. They are doing a fantastic job with the characters and story lines. When they announced Guardians of the Galaxy, I was thrilled. Guardians is probably my favorite Marvel comic book ever. My husband and I have been reading it together for years now and we love everything about it. Star-Lord is one of my favorite characters of all time, for so many reasons. And Chris Pratt played him perfectly. In fact, that movie was cast to perfection – I have zero complaints and that says a lot from someone who has been reading the series since I can remember.

I can vividly recall hearing that Marvel Studios would be making a Guardians of the Galaxy 2 before the first one was even out in theaters (the same week if memory serves me right). And now Marvel Studios has finally begun production on the film – titled Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. I cannot wait for this movie! It is going to be amazing – I just know it. We are a little over a year away from the release, but I know it will be worth the wait! Oh and did I mention that Kurt Russell has joined the cast! Eeeekkkk – I planned to save this post for my FanGirl Friday series but I just couldn’t make you guys wait any longer! Read on to learn a little bit more about the film – and don’t forget to mark your calendar!

Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 hits theaters on May 5, 2017!

Marvel

“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” is written and directed by James Gunn (“Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Slither”). The film marks the return of the original Guardians, including Chris Pratt (“Jurassic World,” “Guardians of the Galaxy”) as Peter Quill/Star-Lord; Zoe Saldana (“Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Star Trek Into Darkness”) as Gamora; Dave Bautista (“Spectre,” “Guardians of the Galaxy”) as Drax; Vin Diesel (“Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Furious 7”) as the voice of Groot; Bradley Cooper (“Joy,” “American Sniper”) as the voice of Rocket; Michael Rooker (“Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Jumper”) as Yondu; Karen Gillan (“Guardians of the Galaxy,” “The Big Short”) as Nebula; and Sean Gunn (“Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Gilmore Girls”) as Kraglin. New cast members include Pom Klementieff (“Oldboy”), Elizabeth Debicki (“The Great Gatsby,” “Everest”), Chris Sullivan (“The Knick,” “The Drop”) and Kurt Russell (“The Hateful Eight,” “Furious 7”).

Set to the all-new sonic backdrop of Awesome Mixtape #2, “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” continues the team’s adventures as they unravel the mystery of Peter Quill’s true parentage.

“Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2” is produced by Marvel Studios’ president, Kevin Feige, with Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Jonathan Schwartz, Nik Korda and Stan Lee serving as executive producers.

Director James Gunn’s creative team also includes director of photography Henry Braham (“The Legend of Tarzan,” “The Golden Compass”); production designer Scott Chambliss (“Star Trek,” “Tomorrowland”); editors Fred Raskin (“The Hateful Eight,” “Guardians of the Galaxy”) and Craig Wood (“Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End”); composer Tyler Bates (“Guardians of the Galaxy,” “John Wick”); three time Oscar®-nominated costume designer Judianna Makovsky (“Captain America: Civil War,” “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”); Oscar®-nominated visual effects supervisor Chris Townsend (“Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “Iron Man 3”); stunt coordinator Tommy Harper (“Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales,” “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” ); co-producer / first assistant director Lars Winther (“Captain America: Civil War,” “Captain America: The Winter Soldier”); and six-time Oscar® nominee, special effects supervisor Dan Sudick (“Captain America: Civil War,” “The Avengers”).

The original “Guardians of the Galaxy” was a hit with critics and audiences alike, earning over $770 million at the worldwide box-office, and holds the record as the most successful debut film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. In addition, the film’s soundtrack went platinum and was nominated for a Grammy®.

Based on the Marvel comic characters first published in 1969, “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 ” continues the lineage of epic big-screen adventures chronicled in “Iron Man,” “The Incredible Hulk,” “Iron Man 2,” “Thor,” “Captain America: The First Avenger,” “The Avengers,” “Iron Man 3,” “Thor: The Dark World,” “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” “Guardians of the Galaxy,” “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “Ant-Man,” and the upcoming release schedule, which includes “Captain America: Civil War” on May 6, 2016; “Doctor Strange,” November 4, 2016; “Spider-Man,” July 7, 2017; and “Thor: Ragnarok” on November 3, 2017.

Marvel Studios continued its unprecedented success in 2015 with the release of “Avengers: Age of Ultron.” At the time of release, the film recorded the second biggest opening weekend of all time with a $191.3 million box office. It has also been the #1 release in every country where it has opened and has grossed over $1.4 billion in global box office. The studio also successfully launched another franchise with “Ant-Man,” starring Paul Rudd, Michael Douglas and Evangeline Lilly. The film opened #1 at the box office on July 17 and went on to gross more than $519 million at the worldwide box office. The film propelled the Marvel brands’ #1 domestic box-office opening streak to a record-breaking 12 consecutive films.

About Marvel Entertainment
Marvel Entertainment, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company, is one of the world’s most prominent character-based entertainment companies, built on a proven library of more than 8,000 characters featured in a variety of media over seventy years. Marvel utilizes its character franchises in entertainment, licensing and publishing. For more information visit marvel.com. ©MARVEL

P!nk Partners with Disney’s Alice Through The Looking Glass

Tessa Smith
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0
P!nk Partners with Disney’s Alice Through The Looking Glass

through the looking glass

I remember seeing P!nk way back when she toured with *NSYNC – yes, I loved (OK still love) them and I may have seen them perform in 10+ states but hey, we are getting off track here. The bottom line is I have seen P!nk perform live several times and she is just incredible. I love her stuff and will be a fan of hers for life. So of course when I found out that she was partnering with Disney’s Alice Through The Looking Glass, I was thrilled! I loved the first movie and have been dying to see this one since it was announced. Johnny Depp is incredible as the Mad Hatter (when is he not incredible?) and the footage that I saw at the D23 Expo made me even more excited for it. He is going to be more or less the main focus of this movie and I for one, cannot wait for it. Watch the video below (and check out the brand new poster above!) and just try to tell me that you are not excited about it too – you won’t be able to. I love that Sacha Baron Cohen is joining the cast. He is a brilliant actor! Read on to learn more about P!nk’s contribution to the film.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKE0Py64jmk

Walt Disney Studios is partnering with three-time GRAMMY-winning singer/songwriter P!nk on the studio’s upcoming release “Alice Through the Looking Glass.” P!nk will write and record an original song which will appear in the film and on the motion picture soundtrack from Walt Disney Records featuring four-time Academy Award nominee Danny Elfman’s score. She has also recorded a cover version of the iconic song “White Rabbit” for the film’s marketing campaign. “Alice Through the Looking Glass” is an all-new spectacular adventure featuring the unforgettable characters from Lewis Carroll’s beloved stories which stars Johnny Depp, Anne Hathaway, Mia Wasikowska, Rhys Ifans, with Helena Bonham Carter, and Sacha Baron Cohen.

ALICE THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS opens in theaters everywhere on May 27th!
Like ALICE THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DisneyAlice
Follow ALICE THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS on Instagram: https://instagram.com/DisneyAlice
Follow Walt Disney Studios on Twitter: https://twitter.com/disneystudios
http://movies.disney.com/alice-through-the-looking-glass

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJBdSaH6hl4

About P!nk:
Since her debut in 2000, P!nk (Alecia Moore) has released seven records, sold over 60 million albums, over 130 million singles, over 2.4 million DVDs worldwide and has had 14 singles in the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart (four at #1). In addition, she is the recipient of three GRAMMY® Awards, three Billboard Music Awards, six MTV Video Music Awards, two MTV Europe Awards, two People’s Choice Awards and was named Billboard’s Woman of the Year in 2013. Her “The Truth About Love” World Tour played 142 shows in 13 countries. In the fall of 2014, she released a side project with singer/songwriter Dallas Green entitled “You+Me.” Their album, “rose ave.,” debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Folk Album chart and #2 on Billboard’s Digital Album chart. In 2015, P!nk became the newest UNICEF Ambassador. She is also a huge supporter of various charities, including: Make a Wish Foundation, Autism Speaks, Human Rights Campaign and No Kid Hungry. She is currently a spokesperson for COVERGIRL, and made her acting debut in Lionsgate’s “Thanks for Sharing,” alongside Gwyneth Paltrow and Mark Ruffalo.

About The Film:
In Disney’s “Alice Through the Looking Glass,” Alice returns to the whimsical world of Underland and travels back in time to save the Mad Hatter. Directed by James Bobin, who brings his own unique vision to the spectacular world Tim Burton created on screen with “Alice in Wonderland,” the film is written by Linda Woolverton based on characters created by Lewis Carroll. The producers are Joe Roth, Suzanne Todd and Jennifer Todd and Tim Burton. John G. Scotti serves as executive producer. “Alice Through the Looking Glass” reunites the cast from the 2010 worldwide blockbuster phenomenon, including Johnny Depp, Anne Hathaway, Mia Wasikowska, Matt Lucas and Helena Bonham Carter and introduces new characters played by Rhys Ifans and Sacha Baron Cohen. Also back are the talented voices of Alan Rickman, Stephen Fry, Michael Sheen, Timothy Spall, Barbara Windsor and Paul Whitehouse, and they are joined by Toby Jones.

About Walt Disney Studios:
For over 90 years, The Walt Disney Studios has been the foundation on which The Walt Disney Company was built. Today, the Studio brings quality movies, music and stage plays to consumers throughout the world. Feature films are released under the following banners: Disney, including Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios; Disneynature; Marvel Studios; Lucasfilm; and Touchstone Pictures, the banner under which live-action films from DreamWorks Studios are distributed. The Disney Music Group encompasses the Walt Disney Records and Hollywood Records labels, as well as Disney Music Publishing. The Disney Theatrical Group produces and licenses live events, including Disney on Broadway, Disney On Ice and Disney Live!.

5 Must Have New Titles from Mill Creek Entertainment

Tessa Smith
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1
5 Must Have New Titles from Mill Creek Entertainment

Disclosure: Mama Smith’s Review Blog received this item in exchange for her honest review. All opinions expressed are 100% hers.

MillCreek DVDs

February is another great month for DVD and Blu-ray releases from Mill Creek Entertainment! They have released three original documentaries, a couple Blu-rays, a nice assortment of multi-feature collections, and plenty of action packed films! There are 10 in total but I received 5 that are must sees if you ask me!

Backyard Chicken Coops

Backyard Chicken Coops

Backyard Chicken Coops is an hour long how-to documentary that outlines various topics that new chicken coop owner will need to know before embarking on creating their own coop. “Many people are starting to raise chickens and other livestock in urban areas as part of a broader small-scale agriculture movement. It’s an exciting change to the relationship we have with the food we eat, but if it’s something you’re interested in doing, it’s not something that you should start without understanding the risks and challenges involved,” says Matt Eckholm, director of the documentary.

Topics such as local ordinances, planning and construction of a coop, selecting and purchasing chickens, raising and caring for chickens as well as long term health care and concerns are covered. Eckholm says, “With Backyard Chicken Coops, I wanted to give an accessible overview of what goes into raising and keeping a small brood, both for people who have never been involved with poultry before, and people who may know a thing or two about chickens, but had never considered raising them in the city.” My husband and I raised chickens for several years so this was a really cool documentary for me to watch. I just loved every part of it! This documentary will be available exclusively at Tractor Supply Co and on the Mill Creek website here.

Gold Rush

Gold Rush

The discovery of gold nuggets in the Sacramento Valley in early 1848 sparked the Gold Rush, arguably one of the most significant events to shape American history during the first half of the 19th century. As news spread of the discovery, thousands of prospective gold miners traveled by sea or over land to San Francisco and the surrounding area; by the end of 1849, the non-native population of the California territory was some 100,000 (compared with the pre-1848 figure of less than 1,000). A total of $2 billion worth of precious metal was extracted from the area during the Gold Rush, which peaked in 1852. This captivating, new documentary series explores the stories of struggle and triumph of the thousands who risked everything for the pursuit of wealth and the illusive American Dream. Purchase here.

Frankenstein

Frankenstein: The Complete Mini Series

“It should become the official home-study of alternative for kids too lazy to read the book. A literal and literate addition to the lengthy annals of monster lore.” – Variety 

What happens when man violates the laws of God and science? For Captain Walton (Emmy and Golden Globe winner Donald Sutherland, The Hunger Games) and the crew of a weather-beaten ship stranded in the icy sea, the answer follows their rescue of a scientist close to death, frozen in fear, and insane with dire warnings. Viktor Frankenstein (Alec Newman, Frank Herbert’s Dune) has a story to tell—a story as chillingly real as the tortured howls emanating from the Arctic fog and as timeless as the need to be loved. Available in DVD and Blu-ray format. Purchase here.

bump in the night

Bump in the Night

The hilarious stop-motion animation adventures of Mr. Bumpy, Squishy, Molly Coddle and the various “household monsters” who make sure their humans are protected from dirty socks and other scary things.

I remember watching this show when I was young so I was super excited to share it with my daughters. My 4 year old really took to it and she just loves it! We went on a trip to Canada and it was a 3 hour drive each way – she watched this the entire drive! She loves Mr. Bumpy and will not stop talking about him. It is fun for me to watch this show again as well. Purchase here.

The Beast

The Beast: The Complete Series

“Patrick Swayze’s performance is impressive for its resistance to cliché and remarkable for the mere fact of its execution.” – Ginia Bellafante, The New York Times

Veteran FBI agent Charles Barker, who isn’t afraid to break rules to get the job done, trains new rookie partner Ellis Dove in his pushing-the-envelope style of agenting. But if Dove is having trouble learning the ropes, it could be because he’s a little distracted: An FBI Internal Affairs team that suspects Barker may have gone rogue is pressuring Dove to work as a double agent and keep them posted on his mentor. Purchase here.

Connect with Mill Creek Entertainment on Social Media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MillCreekEnt
Twitter: https://twitter.com/millcreekent

About Mill Creek Entertainment

Mill Creek Entertainment is the leading provider of value home video content to the retail and specialty marketplaces. With over 50 million DVDs and Blu-ray discs sold annually the company has established a powerful distribution network that encompasses over 30,000 storefronts and millions of online customers. The company is relentless in its quest to always provide outstanding content and packaging with amazing value propositions to ensure consumer demand and customer satisfaction. Mill Creek offers a tremendous range of content including contemporary and classic feature film and television, kids’ animation, documentary, special interest and fitness. Compilations range from double-features to 100-movie collections as well as 10 to 600 episode TV collections. Driven by its immense library of over 12,000 hours of owned and licensed content and licensing partnerships with major studios and production companies world- wide, the company continues to redefine the value marketplace. For more information: www.millcreekent.com.

Brand New Zootopia Clips!

Tessa Smith
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0
Brand New Zootopia Clips!

zootopia-3

I am so excited about the movie Zootopia! I have promised my 3 and 4 year old that we will be at the theater opening night and I cannot wait! Ever since I saw clips from the movie at D23 Expo this summer, I knew it was going to be a great family film. It is sure to keep everyone laughing! I mean, have you seen that sloth clip? HILARIOUS! The latest three clips that have been released have me dying to see more. Thankfully, we are less than a month away from the release (March 4, 2016). Check out these clips and I dare you to tell me that you did not laugh!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEj5qwsDn3o

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQ2XkyDTW34

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XNv0AoWLMKY

About Zootopia
The modern mammal metropolis of Zootopia is a city like no other. Comprised of habitat neighborhoods like ritzy Sahara Square and frigid Tundratown, it’s a melting pot where animals from every environment live together—a place where no matter what you are, from the biggest elephant to the smallest shrew, you can be anything. But when rookie Officer Judy Hopps (voice of Ginnifer Goodwin) arrives, she discovers that being the first bunny on a police force of big, tough animals isn’t so easy. Determined to prove herself, she jumps at the opportunity to crack a case, even if it means partnering with a fast-talking, scam-artist fox, Nick Wilde (voice of Jason Bateman), to solve the mystery. Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Zootopia,” a comedy-adventure directed by Byron Howard (“Tangled,” “Bolt”) and Rich Moore (“Wreck-It Ralph,” “The Simpsons”) and co-directed by Jared Bush (“Penn Zero: Part-Time Hero”), opens in theaters on March 4, 2016.

Be sure to download some Zootopia coloring pages and activity sheets here!

Like ZOOTOPIA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DisneyZootopia
Follow ZOOTOPIA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DisneyZootopia
Follow Disney Animation on Instagram: https://instagram.com/disneyanimation/
Visit Disney Animation on Tumblr: http://disneyanimation.tumblr.com/
Visit the official ZOOTOPIA website here: http://movies.disney.com/zootopia

ZOOTOPIA opens in theatres everywhere on March 4th!

Meet the actor inside Colossus in Deadpool: Stefan Kapicic

Tessa Smith
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Meet the actor inside Colossus in Deadpool: Stefan Kapicic

Disclosure: This Q&A session as well as the photos was provided to me by EW. See original article here.

Colossus in Deadpool

I have been dying to see Deadpool since the moment I found out it was going to be a thing. I knew right away that Ryan Reynolds would be the perfect Deadpool. I have read just about everyone one of the comics and Ryan’s quick wit makes him the ideal actor to play the Merc with a Mouth. But who would play the supporting roles? I was thrilled when I heard that Colossus would be a character in this film because he is one of my favorite characters from the comics. Something about him – maybe the love for his little sister or quite possibly his brute strength has made him stand out to me.

I was recently given the opportunity to interview Stefan Kapicic (the Serbian actor inside the 7-and-a-half foot tall mutant) and while I was unable to make room in my schedule, I did get some questions and answers that helped me get to know him – and I think he was a great choice! Read on below and I am willing to bet you will agree!

Deadpool on Social Media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeadpoolMovie/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/deadpoolmovie
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deadpoolmovie/
Website: http://www.foxmovies.com/movies/deadpool
#Deadpool

Deadpool

1. Did you have previous knowledge of Deadpool? Were you a fan?

Yes! I am big comic book geek. I can’t live without them! Deadpool was always one of my favorite characters because of the way he handles all kinds of situations. His style and humor make him the perfect antihero. It’s great finding a comic book character that doesn’t care about following traditional comic book rules like “breaking the fourth wall” and being explicit about everything! This gives Deadpool the arrogance which you just have to love.

2. What was the interview/audition experience like for the role of Colossus?

It was such a top secret project from the beginning that I didn’t even know what I was auditioning for. All the characters had different names attached as well. I found out I was up for this while I was working in Belgrade and my manager (at Endorse Management Group from LA) was visiting me on-set where he promised an opportunity to work on a film in the U.S. in the near future. A few weeks later, he called with this secretive role on a film to self-tape. Since that time, this became a three-month experience that I was self-taping from Europe (where I was working in Serbia). It was only after the second round of casting that some of the names were revealed and I figured it out IMMEDIATELY, so it was a much bigger deal for me because I am such a huge fan. I had such great experience with the casting team at FOX. They were so great to me, while giving excellent directions and notes, that I ended up with 120 takes on my third call of auditions. After that, FOX called my manager and requested I come back to my home in Los Angeles (which happened to be the ONLY week between my two theatre performances in Dubrovnik, Croatia and Montenegro) when we were dark. When I was there, I worked at FOX studios with Tim Miller (Director) for the last part of the audition. The session was supposed to be for four hours, but we got inspired and creative, so it continued for eight more hours. After we were done, I flew the 14hr flight back to Montenegro and drove straight to the theatre to perform “Romeo and Juliette.” I was reeling with excitement from that last week in LA, but I couldn’t tell ANYONE about Colossus!

3. Describe the feeling when you found out that you had received the part.

I still get chills when I think about it. Amazing! I’ve filmed before in USA, and have more than 80 roles in TV, Film, and theatre, but the feeling of becoming a part of the Marvel Universe as Colossus is incredible! Sometimes you just can’t explain that moment, but when you think about it you feel so happy and proud. This is a dream opportunity!

4. Your voice is used to create Colossus – but did the performance involve motion capture as well?

Tim Miller’s idea of Colossus was to be bigger and stronger than everyone else, so for the motion capture they needed an extremely tall man (I’m 6’4”, but he wanted Colossus to be over 7’, so they used a stunt-double to recreate his height, and he did very good job there). Tim also wanted Colossus to sound as close as possible to the comic book character’s background, so he had me to come in, since my voice was what he envisioned for Colossus who has an authentic Russian accent. My character’s voice gives him the past history as Piotr Nikolayevich Rasputin once you hear him speak. This made him the most authentic to the original idea of the comic book character.

5. How is Colossus’s voice different from your own? What were you attempting to achieve with the voice?

Giving the voice and expressions to a character is giving it a soul. It is a specific type of acting and it must be precise as it has to bring a character to life. We had been trying all sorts of depths–both vocal and emotional–while playing with variations of Russian accents to give a range to the role until we finally got what the director wanted. It was such an amazing process and all the hard work payed off! I cannot wait for everyone to enjoy it! Colossus’s voice is not much different than mine as the director loved my natural color and range of voice, so we kept it and worked more on the Russian accent. The best note I received was to be authentic.

6. Were you aware how close the movie was to being finished when you worked on your part?

Yes, I was aware, so I knew how important was to make a perfect Colossus. We worked our best to make him a well-known character–an original from the comic book–because of the huge fan base that Colossus has.

7. Tell me what it was like to work with Ryan Reynolds? And also Tim Miller?

There is no actor in the world with such talent and charm that could play Deadpool as well as Ryan Reynolds. Working with him was a fantastic experience, and his ideas and suggestions helped me out a lot. It was just great fun to work one-on-one as Deadpool and Colossus.

I worked with many directors in my life, but Tim Miller is definitely my favorite. He not only has a beautiful sense of directing actors, but he also shares a great love and passion for the comic book world, as I do. I enjoyed working and spending time talking with him. He is an exceptional man and friend and I can never thank him enough for this opportunity that he gave me.

8. I noticed on Twitter that you made a reference to the upcoming news about your casting in Deadpool and used the hashtag #dreamscometrue. Explain how this is a dream come true for you.

My grandfather bought me my first marvel comic book when I was six years old, and since then, it has been an ongoing love. It was an X-Men comic book.

Becoming a part of the Marvel Universe was my childhood dream. Like most kids growing up, I read a lot of comic books and acted out some of the characters with friends. Since I can remember, I wanted to be a superhero, so it’s not just a movie for me–or just another role–it’s a fulfillment of my dreams on so many levels.

Disney Channel’s Stuck in the Middle Sneak Peek to Air February 14 Following Frozen

Tessa Smith
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Disney Channel’s Stuck in the Middle Sneak Peek to Air February 14 Following Frozen
Stuck in the Middle Disney Channel
Photo Credit: Disney Channel/Craig Sjodin

Fellow Disney fans – I have some super exciting information for you! Not only will Frozen be airing on The Disney Channel this weekend for the first time ever, but the new show “Stuck in the Middle” will be airing a FULL EPISODE sneak peak once it ends! I have seen a clip and I can promise you – this show is going to be great. My daughters and I are planning a family fun night to tune in to Frozen and then Stuck in the Middle.

We cannot wait! Even though we own Frozen (and watch it at least once a week) it will be fun to see it on TV for the first time. I am even letting my 4 year old stay up late on a school night (shhhh – don’t tell her teacher).

Frozen starts at 7:00 p.m. EST on SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14th and Stuck in the Middle will start at 8:45 p.m. EST. If you can’t tune in – set those DVRs – you won’t want to miss this! The Stuck in the Middle preview episode will also be on WATCH Disney Channel and WATCHDisneyChannel.com, available to users on tablets, phones, set top boxes and computers, beginning Sunday, February 14.

Stuck in the Middle Disney Channel
Photo Credit: Disney Channel/Eric McCandless

About Stuck in the Middle

Jenna Ortega (Jane The Virgin and Elena of Avalor) stars as inventive tween Harley Diaz, the middle child in a bustling household of nine, in the engaging, single-camera comedy series Stuck in the Middle. Told from Harley’s point of view, the slice of life stories find humor in everyday life as this middle child devises creative ways to cope with – and stand out – in her family’s busy suburban Massachusetts household.

The Diaz parents, Suzy and Tom, also have six other kids: Rachel the self-involved eldest; Georgie, a basketball-playing teen; Ethan, Harley’s closest ally; invincible and indestructible twins Lewie and “Beast”; and the strong-willed youngest sibling, Daphne. In the preview episode, avid inventor Harley is all set to accept a community award, but must first devise a way to get her family out of the house and to the ceremony on time.

Stuck in the Middle Disney Channel
Photo Credit: Disney Channel/Eric McCandless

In addition to Jenna Ortega, the series stars Isaak Presley (Austin & Ally) as Ethan Diaz, Ronni Hawk as Rachel Diaz, Kayla Maisonet (Dog With A Blog) as Georgie Diaz, Nicolas Bechtel (“General Hospital”) as Lewie Diaz, Malachi Barton (The Young and the Restless) as Beast Diaz, Ariana Greenblatt (Liv and Maddie) as Daphne Diaz, Cerina Vincent (Mike and Molly) as Suzy Diaz, and Joe Nieves (How I Met Your Mother) as Tom Diaz. Linda Videtti Figueiredo (Rules of Engagement and Last Man Standing) serves as executive producer. The series was created byAlison Brown(Dog With A Blog).

Stuck in the Middle will air in its regular time slot beginning FRIDAY, MARCH 11 (9:00 p.m. EST) on Disney Channel.

The series is from Horizon Productions, Inc., and carries a TV-G parental guideline. Disney Channel is a 24-hour kid-driven, family-inclusive television network that taps into the world of kids and families through original series and movies. Currently available on basic cable in over 96 million U.S. homes and to millions of other viewers on Disney Channels around the world, Disney Channel is part of the Disney | ABC Television Group.

 

3 Reasons You Should Go See Kung Fu Panda 3

Tessa Smith
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3 Reasons You Should Go See Kung Fu Panda 3

Kung Fu Panda 3 Poster

Last weekend my husband and I took our daughters to see Kung Fu Panda 3. We have seen the others (which we love!) so we expected the film to be pretty good. I must say, as we both walked out of the theater, we couldn’t stop quoting it! We were both blown away by just how amazing it was! Below are a few reasons why you should go see it.

Kung Fu Panda 3

Great Family Film
Kung Fu Panda 3 is a great movie for the entire family. If you have seen the first two (which you don’t really NEED to see in order to go see this movie), you know they are done very well. Some people might see Jack Black’s name and think this film might have a dirty side to it, but it doesn’t. It is very clean with some great humor that the whole family can enjoy. A few times my eyes teared up from laughing so hard! My daughters have always loved Po but now they do even more.

The Morals That You Learn
Be Yourself. That is the main lesson that you walk away with when you watch this film. Be the best you that you can be. I love that this film encourages my girls to find out what they do best and run with it. Kung Fu Panda 3 also shines light on family and friendship – just how important it is. I may have shed a few (OK, more than a few) tears at the end. Both of my daughters were very huggy after watching the film and I think that is because they realized (at least a little bit) just how much my husband and I love them.

The Voice Acting
I mean, just take a look at the list of actors in this film and you will know that it is awesome. You cannot go wrong with Jack Black, Bryan Cranston, Seth Rogan, Lucy Liu, Kate Hudson, Jackie Chan, J.K. Simmons, Dustin Hoffman, Angelina Jolie, David Cross – and that is not even all of them! Each of these actors brings life to their characters. I cannot hear Jack Black talk now without picturing Po! The combination and chemistry between them all is great and they had us laughing almost the entire film!

Kung Fu Panda 3 Kai

Synopsis
Living large and loving life, Po (Jack Black) realizes that he has a lot to learn if he’s going to fulfill the next challenge from his beloved instructor (Dustin Hoffman). After reuniting with his long-lost father (Bryan Cranston), Po must transition from student to teacher and train a group of fun-loving, clumsy pandas to become martial-arts fighters. Together, the kung-fu brethren unite to take on the evil Kai (J.K. Simmons), a supernatural warrior who becomes stronger with each battle.

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