New Instagram filter!! Type “Simba and Nala” in the browse effects or take a look in the effects tab on the Instagram profile page @TheLionKing to try it on yourself!
You can literally click on this video while it plays on Youtube – and have a look around!! Amazing!!
ENRICHMENT MATERIALS
This rich educational experience is designed for students, fans, teachers, and guests to deeply engage with Frozen the Broadway Musical. Choose a section to explore the production’s background and journey from page to stage. Teachers, be sure to check out the accompanying lesson plans available in certain sections!
Before I tell you all the wonders of Onward, let me preface with the fact that I am not unbiased here. I am a person who loves quests, adventures, and all things mystical. Therefore, this movie was a gift for me.
Onward is the story of two elf brothers, Ian and Barley Lightfoot, living in a world that has forgotten magic, primarily because, “magic is hard”. Voiced by Tom Holland and Chris Pratt these two brothers couldn’t be more different from one another.
Ian is anxious, scared of so many things, and in that very awkward stage of vacillating between feeling invisible, and wishing he was. While Barley is in what his mother calls “the longest gap year ever”. He seems to lack motivation and direction and is totally absorbed in a Dungeons and Dragons type board game, Quests of Yore, which Barely tries wholeheartedly to get his family to realize is all based in real history.
On Ian’s sixteenth birthday their mom, Laurel, gives Ian a present left by his father before he passed away. The present is a wizard’s staff and a magic spell that will supposedly bring their dad back for one full day. However, in the initial attempt to use this spell, remembering “magic is hard”, the spell goes a bit awry propelling the brothers on a quest that challenges them, bonds them, and gives the movie the bulk of its story.
Onward is Pixar at its best in my opinion. This movie goes on the shelf besides Coco, Up, WALL-E, and Inside Out, and reminds me of what they’ve always done best in their shorts, entertain us while getting us emotionally invested. This movie makes you feel. It’s beautiful, poignant, and shows us how important it is to remember who we truly are and just how far we can go when we have each other’s back.
I was absolutely thrilled with the side story of the boy’s mom who becomes involved with The Manticore in a perfect moment of girl power as they take on their own quest to find the boys before they find the Phoenix Gem and unleash the curse that they are unaware of.
Aside from the shameless pillaging from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, something I’m assuming was meant as an homage, but still felt a little funny as it was very note for note, this movie is a truly good reminder that there are more rewards on the hard path than the easy one, your travel companions will make or break any quest, and at the end of the day, sometimes we can’t see what’s right in front of us, without the quest.
This movie is emotional, touching, and fun for everyone, but I think will especially speak to families who’ve lost a parent, obviously to close siblings, and for people like me, quest going, adventure loving, believer of all things mystical.
Disclaimer:
**Please note that I was invited to a complimentary viewing of this movie on February 19, 2020 so that I could bring you this review on behalf of Krista at Disneyways. Complementary admission in no way influenced my review, and all opinions are my own.**
About the Author:
Samantha Lucas is an Author, Mystic, Disney Enthusiast, Dream Follower Extraordinaire. Follow her on Instagram HERE
Those who know my Disney side, are well aware of my love for Frozen and all of the Disney Princesses. More specifically, I love Elsa, who is not a Princess, but actually a Queen – so I guess it is safe to say she is my favorite Disney Queen of all time.
There was really no way fro me to bring you an unbiased review of Frozen 2 because I am incredibly biased and in love with these characters, forever. BUT – thank goodness for WDW Hints
I have included an unbiased review for in this space – so read on! For everyone waiting to hear what I had to say – here it is. In all of its gushing and totally biased glory. I LOVE FROZEN AND I LOVED FROZEN 2. For the rest of this article, I am going to give you some fun things to look for in this film – that really stood out for me!
Here they are in no particular order:
Olaf and the Gang Play Charades
One of the opening scenes includes Olaf and the crew playing charades. It is as cute as you can imagine. Olaf does a fantastic impersonation of Elsa, and even SHE giggles at his cuteness.
One of the best things ever? SVEN is the time keeper. Remember when Kristoff sang about how reindeers are better than people? Well apparently they are fantastic and fair when you need a timekeeper for charades too. Sven even rings the little bell at the stop and start of each round.
Olaf retells the story of the first Frozen, in his own special way
Practical, because he needed the Northuldra Tribe to understand the whole story. Entertaining, because it is Olaf!! Watch for his version of what happened in the first Frozen film. It is hilarious!
Animated Baby Reindeer
If you have been following our website for a while now, you probably know about my “thing” for baby animals. I wrote a full article when a baby zebra was born at Animal Kingdom Lodge. Oh and that one time when a mama and baby rhino came charging towards our vehicle on the Kilimanjaro Safari ride at Animal Kingdom? I wasn’t scared – I JUST THOUGHT THAT BABY WAS SO CUTE! So, you guessed it, I wrote about it– and included pics. One of my favorite things about Lion King in live action film? The babies!!!
You will have to look quick – but there is a scene in Frozen 2 where the cutest baby reindeer you have ever seen cuddles up with one of the girls. I can’t remember if it was Anna or Elsa now – because I was too busy looking at that BABY!!! He is not baby Sven, he belongs to somebody from the Northuldra tribe. They are all around a campfire… and oh… that little reindeer took my breath away!
Kristoff Made a Music Video
Bobby and Kristen Lopez, who did the music for the first film, wrote Kristoff this epic kind of 80s ballad and the animation that goes with it. It’s like an 80s music video,” Groff explained. “It’s a joke for the adults. The little kids don’t really get it.”
I think the kids that know about boy bands WILL get it. In Frozen 2, Kristoff belts out a song and that, combined with the video going on, made me feel like I was watching just that. IT WAS AMAZING …and hilarious!! I loved it. But Kristoff and I have a history.
Back when the first Frozen movie came out, Kristoff started making appearances in Magic Kingdom.
Some girlfriends and I were swooning over him. In fact, we may have started a hashtag.
If you love Kristoff and you love boy bands and you love music videos… you will totally understand this. And you and I can be friends forever.
Elsa’s Toes
Watch for Elsa’s beautiful little Queen toes. She is barefoot in parts of this movie. Maybe we got to see Cinderella’s toes too – but seeing the toes of a Queen seemed like a special thing to me.
EPIC COSTUMES ~ including one for swimming
Half of the fun of this movie – for me – was watching for wardrobe changes. These girls have more outfits than Cher!! Elsa wears the most fabulous swim costume I have ever seen. Watch for it! On a side note, all of the ocean and underwater scenes are breathtaking. I found myself wondering what was real and what was CGI. When animated films become so sharp that they look like reality – it freaks me out and delights me – all at the same time. What do you think about that?
Kristoff gets to be a hero…finally!
I understand we want to portray women in Disney films as strong and able to hold their own. But I was SO pleased to see a part in Frozen 2 where they actually let Kristoff be a hero. Finally!
Production Babies – Baby Presley!
It is tradition now at the end of a Disney movie to add the names of all babies born while the movie was made. Because of my obession with Elvis Presley, Disney, and how excited I get when my worlds collide, you can imagine my excitement about this. Somebody on the production team of Frozen 2 named their new baby “PRESLEY”
Spoiler Alert… what happens after the credits
Stay for the whole thing. You get to see Marshmallow and the Snowgies!
I hope you enjoyed my list of fun stuff to look for when you go to see Frozen 2! Disney princesses are a giant part of Disney magic to me. I started a facebook page just for celebrating them. Come on over to join in and participate HERE
**Please note that I was invited to a complimentary viewing of this movie on November19, 2019 so that I could bring you this review. Complementary admission in no way influenced my review, and all opinions are my own.**
Thank you to my friend Kitei for attending the media preview with me!
I want to thank my friend Tour Guide Barbi from Themepark Academy for her actual, spoiler free, review! She is less biased than I am because she honestly wasn’t in love with the first Frozen movie!
I was very lucky to receive last minute passes to the media screening of Frozen 2, which made my children feel very special. I find the words to describe it afterwards are a little tough to find. It is an epic, yet fairly predictable journey, with all of the characters acting in their established roles: Elsa is still being fairly reckless, Anna is still chasing after Elsa even though she doesn’t have powers and Olaf, Kristoff and Sven fill their supporting roles with humor and self-reflection. There are definitely some scenes where the these humorous breaks are appreciated due to some very tear-worthy moments. This film took several comedic shots at its predecessor, showing one of my favorite Disney studio traits, the ability to laugh at itself. The imagery is stunning, the score is as epic as the storyline and the new anthem “Into the Unknown” shows yet another stellar performance by Idina Menzel. Plus, the reprise at the end by Panic! At The Disco is equally as amazing. (I’m surprised that it took me this long to recognize Brendan Urie as Idina’s male equivalent! ) I fully expect Frozen Fever will be in full force once this opens to the public and in anticipation we have created a video on all the places to find the Frozen characters in the park. Enjoy! ~ Tour Guide Barbi
The Story of a Wannabe Disney Princess and a trip to Neverland.
Once upon a time in land called Orlando, a Wannabe Disney Princess was called upon to write and narrate a project that was literally – what her dreams were made of. She had always fantasized about guiding her friends to the second star to the right and straight on ’til morning. I guess you could call her a wannabe Disney Princess with Tinker Bell-like navigation skills!
Disney fans all know what happens when you wish upon a star. Anything your heart desires, will come to you!
My name is Krista Joy, and I am that wannabe Disney Princess!
Along the way of achieving my dreams of becoming a real Disney Princess, I feel like I am (already!) the Princess of manifesting my own dreams. The truth is that it only comes with the blessings the Lord chooses to give me, my heart full of gratitude, acceptance, living with intentionally and the help of lots and lots of good friends – of course!!
Theme Parkology presents The Dark Ride Series Peter Pan’s Flight all started with a dream – Jerry Cornell’s dream! Today we want to give you a little more of the backstory on how this dream turned into reality. It took a little more than faith, trust and pixie dust!
It all started when my dear friend, the fantastic, amazing and awesome Jerry Cornell, producer of documentaries extraordinaire – had a dilemma. He was ready to produce a new spectacular DVD for his Theme Parkology fans. “Theme Parkology presents The Dark Ride Series Peter Pan’s Flight” was to be a DVD that would pull back the curtain on this magical attraction – in all of it’s versions – in Disney Parks all over the world. As a bonus, Jerry wanted to take Peter Pan’s Flight from concept to construction, to changes through the years. It was no small task. Jerry’s other writers were not available, and that’s where I wanted to step in and help.
The Wannabe Princess hoped to be the heroine of this story! Of course in every fairytale there is always a villain or two. Time stealers, my daily responsibilities, and needing money to keep my household going, are always there… like the proverbial Maleficent to the Aurora’s baby shower of my Disney dreams…ready to impose at any time and wreak havoc! After all, this is volunteer work – and I knew I would not gain money from any of it, or the sales!
In spite of it all, I was inspired by my own childhood memories of the Peter Pan attraction, the Disney magic that ensues each time I ride it, and ALL that it means to me. I felt that it was very important to portray and tell the story in a way that would help bring that magic to others. I understood the significance, weight and the magnitude of the task. I STILL wanted to be the one to take it on – and give it my best shot. My determination was like the sword of Prince Philip and the encouraging voice of Jerry Cornell was like the magic that guided the sword in the fight.
I explained to Jerry it would be my delight to help, at no charge, but I would probably need a lot of time. Jerry was very understanding, as he always is, and emailed me the outline to work from, along with some talking points he wanted me to cover. He assured me that I could take as much time as I needed. I took a deep breath, read his email, and whispered to myself, “Come on everybody, here we goooooo!”
This project was on my mind and in my heart. There was no turning back now!
During the time span of several months, I worked on it in bits and pieces. To me, it felt like fighting Captain Hook and his crew. Wannabe Disney Princesses have a gift for sprinkling pixie dust and leaving a trial of sparkles and happiness where ever they go. Writing facts and figures and being historically accurate does not come quite as naturally. It was essential and beyond important – that I write the information in this project as timelessly and accurately as humanly possible. I was feeling the pressure because just like with my own brand, Disneyways, it is essential that Theme Parkology keeps it’s reputation as a trusted source for Disney content.
The pieces started forming over a span of a few months. Ultimately, the most work was done in the 2 to 3 days in a row that I was able to carve out of my schedule to make the writing a priority. I shut out all forms of distraction and got to work. I pieced together all of the research I had done, doing my best to not leave out any sections. I wanted the language to be breezy, conversational english, while trying to keep it as fun and light as possible.
THEN… I got to the parts where Jerry wanted me to get technical about the mechanics of the ride, physics, and the thinking process of the Imagineers. YIKES!
I remember calling Jerry and asking him…is this REALLY necessary?! This stuff is so BORING to me! Who really cares about all this anyhow??
In his reassuring way – Jerry once again calmed me down and told me, “Yes Krista. It’s essential. Theme Parkology fans LOVE this stuff the most. The more technical and detailed you can get on this part…the better.”
He acknowledged that out of “Fantasy” and “Technical” I am one of his writers that he puts in the “Fantasy” category. WOW isn’t THAT the truth?!!
Even so, he believed in me, and gave me courage to give it my all. I reluctantly agreed to it, and then set out to explain pulley systems, physics, and the scientific creative process for Peter Pan’s Flight – in the best way I knew how. Judging by the success and sales of this DVD – I hit the mark.
Overall, it was a project that stretched me, and flexed my creative muscles to the max!
I have been reading aloud and narrating as long as I can remember. This is my wheelhouse and it’s where I feel very, very comfortable. Jerry used my narrating skills for the “Disneyland Secrets” DVD so he knew I could do this part with ease. It was all recorded in my own home and I sent it in separate parts to Jerry over email. Reading what I had actually written was a joy. I was able to put inflection, emphasis, energy and even pauses…in all the places I wanted them to be. Jerry’s editing, graphics, and music are fantastic and really tie the whole thing together. His entire team worked in harmony together for one cohesive and immersive experience. Watch it and see for yourself!
I think you can really hear my heart and my feelings about Peter Pan’s Flight as you enjoy this DVD. My deepest hope is that you are taking the journey WITH me and feeling all the same magic and nostalgia that I feel when we take this ride together. I hope that I have brought you to a very happy place with my part of this work. I hope that you feel educated, too, in the parts that really tested me. I hope your curiosity about the mechanics of the ride is beyond satisfied. I hope that you will watch and enjoy this DVD over and over.
Through this Theme Parkology DVD… let’s travel off to Neverland together, for years and years to come. Normally, at his part, the Wannabe Disney Princess would ride off into the sunset with her prince and live happily ever after. But our story is not over! There’s so much more Theme Parkology fun to be had. Just like Peter Pan, we never really have to grow up and we are JUST GETTING STARTED!!
Come one everybody, here we goooo!! This whimsical documentary explores the history of the attraction and was written and narrated by the talented Krista Joy, intro music by James Presley, and animated title sequence by C. Andrew Nelson.
This will be a wonderful addition to your Theme Parkology collection.
**Theme Parkology is a fan publication not affiliated with the Walt Disney Company. I am not compensated for my work on these 2 projects. I was gifted with a few copies of them Parkology presents The Dark Rid Series Peter Pan’s Flight in exchange for my review. This in now way influenced my opinion and all thoughts are my own.***
Aladdin basically repeats the exact story line from our animated favorite, yes, it’s true. But stay with me here – because I’m going to give you 5 reasons to go see this in the theater anyway. There are glorious parts that I think you’ll want to see and hear on the big screen if you are a die-hard Disney fan like I am. We are going to discuss rugs, Elsa moments and some other things to note as well. Fair warning, you may or may not find this review to be “spoiler free.” The story has been out since 1992, grossed more than $502 million at the global box office, and led to successful stage productions on Broadway and abroad as well as a North American touring company. Chances are as a Disney fan – you are familiar with the tale!
“Aladdin” opens in U.S. theaters nationwide May 24, 2019. My future daughter-in-lawKelsey and I attended the media screening on May 21, 2019.
The live-action versions of Mary Poppins, and even Dumbo – switched up the story so it was different from the animated versions. If you go looking for that again, you won’t see it.
Just the same, here is my list of Top 5 Reasons Disney Fans Should Go See Live-Action Aladdin:
#1 The opening song “Arabian Nights” ~ like you’ve never heard it before!
The film opens with a version of the song Arabian Nights – but this time – Will Smith is the singer! YES Will Smith is the Genie. I had trouble wrapping my brain around it before I saw the film. BUT, I think if you had any concerns about live-action Aladdin, especially anything Will Smith-related, they will vanish once that first big song kicks in. As a fan of Will’s work since way back in the day when he was “The Fresh Prince” … it’s safe to say that I have been jamming “Prince Willie Style” for a long time.
For Arabian Nights, I LOVED hearing his voice in full song. Our theater had the volume up pretty loud for the whole film, so it made it extra epic! I got chills hearing Will belt out to the swell of the music:
“Araabiaaan Niiiiiiii-i-i-ghts like Araaabiann Daaaays….”
You can just imagine.
“A Whole New World” and “Friend like Me” won Oscars back in 1992. Why did this one not get one too? “Arabian Nights” is fantastic, so if you enjoyed it in the animated film, I know you are getting me here. By the way, Will Smith as the Genie, did not try to get fancy with the tune or change the arrangement. You’re going to recognize it, it stays true to the classic.
Note how in parts of this film, Genie might remind you a bit of Will’s character in Hitch.
#2 The CAPTIVATING Magic Carpet
Photo Source: Kirsten Acuna from Insider.com and she got it from Disney
I read and saw as little as possible about this film in advance because I wanted to be surprised. I had no idea that the carpet made a splash and was overshadowingall this talk about Will Smith being the Genie – as early as February 2019. But wow, I totally get it now!! Keep your eyes on the carpet – he is CAPTIVATING!! The detail really presents itself on the big screen of a movie theater. I never knew I could get so excited about a rug.
Speaking of “rugs” Mena Massoud who plays Aladdin…bless his heart… what was going on with his hair in this film? Maybe it’s just me and the world that I live in. In case you hadn’t heard, I work with Peter Alden, who is a stunning and talented Elvis Presley Tribute Artist with his own natural and beautiful hair – in a time where even the really young “Elvis guys” wear wigs. I don’t know if Mena was wearing a wig, or if they straightened is hair in an effort to get it to look more like cartoon Aladdin. But the hair was distracting to me. I feel like they could have done better. Or even just left it alone. His natural hair is gorgeous. Go see this film on the big screen and tell me if you get what I am saying here.
YES!!!
Nooooo….
#3 “Speechless” A Princess Anthem: Jasmine has an “Elsa” moment this time around!
I was so glad to hear Genie’s show-stopping familiar songs like”Friend Like Me” and the fantastic “A Whole New World.” The new live action remake of Aladdin brings to life brand new versions of all your favorite songs, but it also adds an all-new tune to the mix.
The courageous and self-determined Princess Jasmine is portrayed by Naomi Scott. Remember her? She used to be a Power Ranger. Go go Princess Jasmine! She has a thick British accent in real life – but she drops it and you totally forget about it during her role as Jasmine. During this film, she sings a new song called “Speechless.”
While watching this in the theater I thought to myself that surely they are trying to recapture the magic of “Let It Go” from Frozen. It really reminded me of that song and the whole Princess Elsa scene. Now that I am researching this whole thing, I have found that there is good reason for that.
The music is by original Aladdin composer, Alan Menken. Jasmine and her storyline with the desire to be free of the constraints of the palace and be recognized for her own abilities was major in the last film – but it’s given even more prominence in this one. The title of the song, “Speechless,” references the state that that those around Jasmine, like Jafar and her father, seem to want her to remain in. She, instead, wants to be able to speak her mind.
Does that sound a little like “Let It Go” to you?
I am from the (non-feminist) school of thought that Princesses were fine the way they were. But I enjoy seeing the girls shine in the newer films as well. So, to me, it’s mostly just nice for Jasmine to get a song of her own, because she never had one in the original animated film. If you recall, Jasmine’s only opportunity to sing back then – was as part of the “Whole New World” duet. Unlike many of Disney’s animated films, Jasmine is a princess that isn’t technically the main character in Aladdin. As I mentioned, she’s a bigger deal in this film….and as a Princess fan, that alone was enough to make me happy. Go see Aladdin in the theater just to catch Princess Jasmine on the big screen having her “Elsa” moment! The colors in the film, the music and the thought behind this — are positive — and fabulous.
#4 Aladdin dances Ballywood Style…On the Big Screen!
I’m going to leave that right there. The colors, the movement, the music…enough said.
#5 Prince Ali – fabulous he – Ali Ababwa…
Here comes the THRILLING and VIBRANT part. WOW, it was so beautiful, I almost cried. I can’t portray how fantastic this scene was to you in words. It was a moment I was happy that animation became live-action. This alone is a reason all Disney fans should go see this film in the theater, just to fully absorb the splendor. Here’s a YouTube video that gives you a couple sneak peeks at what I am talking about.
It is interesting to note that when Will as the Genie sings the original lyrics “brush off your sunday salaam” he changes them to “brush off your FRIDAY salaam” … all I can think of is that maybe he did that because the film will be released on a Friday? Tell me if you know something about that!
I hope you enjoyed reading my top 5 reasons to see Aladdin in theaters! Send me your list when you go see it! Here are some links so you can follow the official accounts for more fun!
**Please note that I was invited to a complimentary viewing of this movie on May 21, 2019 so that I could bring you this review. My guest and I each had to pay $8 for parking. The free admission and the money we shelled out for parking, in no way influenced my review, and all opinions are my own.**
Production notes:
Hashtag: #Aladdin
Genre: Action Adventure
U.S. Release date: May 24, 2019
Cast: Will Smith, Mena Massoud, Naomi Scott, Marwan Kenzari, Navid
Negahban, Nasim Pedrad, Billy Magnussen
Directed by: Guy Ritchie
Screenplay by: John August and Guy Ritchie
Animation Screenplay by: Ron Clements & John Musker and Ted Elliott & Terry Rossio
Based on: Disney’s “Aladdin”
Produced by: Dan Lin, p.g.a., Jonathan Eirich, p.g.a.
AVENGERS: ENDGAME – A Spoiler-Free Review by Peter Alden Grigsby
There is just ‘something’ about watching a Marvel Universe Film. They continue to produce films that build on one another. Often times creating a final product that leaves you with a feeling of “how in the world can they top that?!?!” Very few highly anticipated films live up to the hype, but Endgame certainly does. It’s the best possible conclusion to Infinity War, and, at this point at least, is the crown jewel of the Marvel franchise. As previously stated, “how in the world can they top that?!”
As most fans are aware of by now, Avengers: Endgame is the official close of MCU’s phase 3, and it certainly does that! What I am about to say next is certainly not a ‘spoiler’, but I will say,
(Albeit ‘tongue & cheek’), DO NOT have a lot of fluids before this film, and stay away from the largest cup size at the theater! It is every bit of its reported 3 hour running time. The first hour and twenty minutes, while certainly a necessity in the story telling of the film, does drag a bit, and would be optimal for a bathroom break if needed. That being said, when this film kicks into high gear, it does not slow down, and you will be loath to move from your seat until the end!
Avengers: Endgame (2019) picks up almost immediately after the devastating events of Avengers: Infinity War (2018), which left the universe in ruins. With the help of other allies, the remaining Avengers assemble in what might just be the last time, to attempt to undo Thanos’ actions, and restore the universe to normal. I feel almost silly attempting to write a ‘spoiler free’ review, because that is proving to be nearly impossible! I have started over a number of times, but buckle up true believers!
Endgame is, quite surprisingly, more inventive than I expected. We know where the story is headed, but there are some interesting turns getting there. I was also surprised at how emotionally engaging it was for a superhero film. With its 3 hour run time, this film spends quite a bit of time on character development, much more so than in previous offers. It does tend to make the film drag a bit early on, but I’m glad they did it, and it most certainly added to the reason the audience was so emotionally involved. There is also quite a bit of humor throughout as well. In fact, this is probably one of the funniest Marvel films since Thor: Ragnarok or perhaps Ant-Man. The laughs are intentional, but don’t feel forced or contrite. The battle scenes are visually stunning, and certainly live up to what we saw in Infinity War. It’s amazing to think that Marvel was able to keep this film under wraps, and I have no intention of spoiling that, but, suffice it to say, there are definitely some surprises that I certainly didn’t see coming. Run; don’t walk to see this little gem! Hopefully fans will keep a lid on things so that everyone can laugh, cry, gasp in surprise, and be thoroughly entertained without anything being given away or ruined.
One last thing though. I even struggled about this, but, in the end, I feel this doesn’t ‘spoil’ anything, so here we go. This film does not include mid-credits, or a post-credits scene, making it the first film in the MCU since The Incredible Hulk to include neither. Marvel has definitely raised the bar on themselves with this one, and I believe this could go down as the most successful superhero film, EVER!
**Please note that I was invited to a complimentary viewing of this movie on April 23, 2019 so that I could bring you this review on behalf of Krista Joy at Disneyways.com. The free admission in no way influenced my review, and all opinions are my own.**
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Peter Alden Grigsby is a Florida native. Pete has appeared in an episode of the Mickey Mouse club, was a Jungle Cruise Skipper, “friend” of the Rocketeer, tram driver on the backlot tour, and opening day cast member at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (formerly MGM). When he’s not writing movie reviews, he is performing as a singer and tribute artist all over the world and currently has a cover album of Disney songs called Kingdom Classics
Captain Marvel – A spoiler free movie review written by Peter Alden Grigsby
You really have to admire the Marvel Cinematic Universe. They have managed to take Comic Book Superheroes, and make them one of the most viable franchises in modern cinema. They have been so successful in fact, that they have enough productions to sub-divide into phases. As of now, we are coming to the end of phase 3, which will culminate with “Avengers: Endgame”. Shifting from big league hitters such as Captain America, Iron Man, Thor and Hulk to characters that have not received as much attention such as Dr. Strange, Black Panther, Guardians of the Galaxy, and the lynch pin, Captain Marvel. Spider Man, quite possibly their most popular character ever, has also recently re-acquired from Sony, so he will also figure prominently in the new phase.
When we left what was left of the team after “Infinity Wars”, we learned that Nick Fury had sent an emergency signal to Captain Marvel, just before being vaporized by Thanos. But who is Captain Marvel? Why was she not included in “The Avengers Initiative”? How can she help, when some of earths ‘Mightiest Heroes’ have already been vaporized? These are just some of the questions that this film sets out to answer. While giving the ‘basic gist’ of the story, I’m not going into too much detail; I want to present this review with NO SPOILERS! So buckle up true believers, here we go!
Right off the bat, THIS is an ‘origin’ film! Simply stated, don’t expect too much of a plot. Take this film as a “hi, nice to meet you”/first date kind of experience. We start out in the middle of the story, where we learn that a race of people called ‘Kree’ is in a war with another race called the ‘Skrulls’. We learned a little about them in “Infinity War”, but we get more of an insight in this film. The Skrulls are shape shifters, and can control their appearance. This is where we first meet “Vers” played by Brie Larson, who comes off fairly well. She presents a “girl-next-door” type of personality, while also being perfectly believable as a woman that can handle herself in any situation. At times she comes off a bit ‘wooden’, but hey, it’s a superhero movie, not “Titanic”. Vers is dealing with reoccurring nightmares about people she feels she knows, but can’t explain why. She also has a mysterious power that even the Kree don’t understand, but properly harnessed could make her one of the most powerful beings in the Universe. Her mentor, Yon-Rogg (Jude Law) is doing his best to help her figure out both who she is, and how to control her powers. Training her to control her emotions, as that is how she can ultimately control her powers. Jude Law is certainly capable, and believable in what he is being asked to do. That said, it’s not much! His character is certainly not explored to the degree it could have been. The chemistry between Law and Larson is not quite Luke Skywalker/Obi-Wan Kenobi caliber, but acceptable. Much like an older brother helping his younger sister. After learning that the Skrull commander, Talos (Ben Mendelsohn) has captured Soh-Lar a Kree spy. Vers joins Yon-Rogg and a Kree rescue team to retrieve Soh-Lar. Of course, things go terribly wrong and Vers winds up separated from her team, and on a collision course towards Earth. For me, Ben Mendelsohn comes close to stealing this film! He gets some of the best lines in the movie, and delivers them brilliantly. This character, sadly, is not explored much either, but Mendelsohn managers to capture a menacing presence, without coming off as a typical ‘casting couch’ villain. He also demonstrates some brilliant comic timing.
Marvel uses a great ploy of ‘going back’ to move forward! Back, meaning to earth in the mid-90’s, (those familiar with the time period will enjoy the many ‘inside jokes’ that are presented.) and there are some genuinely funny moments. This is where we meet a young Nick Fury (Samuel A. Jackson), sans eye-patch, and a ‘rookie’ Shield agent Coulson (Clark Gregg). I’ve never really been a fan of the ‘de-aging’ CGI effects to make older actors look younger, I’ve never thought it looked real, but I will say it was done fairly well, and doesn’t really distract too much. Talos has followed Vers to earth, and is now after her. Sadly, this is where the ‘1990’s’ shtick becomes burdensome, and takes this film into a TV superhero feel. Not ‘camp’ but more like the Bill Bixby/Lou Ferrigno ‘Incredible Hulk’ series. We learn Vers real name is Carol Danvers. She has a mysterious relationship with a Scientist (Annette Bening) she barely remembers. To me it seems that Bening was used for her ‘star power’ and very little else. What should have been a pivotal character was, again, never explored enough to the point that we actually cared anything about her. We also meet her best friend, Maria Rambeau (Lashanna Lynch). Maria Rambeau is extremely likeable, and presents her character as the kind of friend we would all like to have. However, other than being Danvers best friend, there is not much for her to do. Danvers and Rambeau, we learn, are kind of like a female version of “Top Gun”. Yes, there is even a mascot named ‘Goose’! It’s almost as if the writers got a bit lazy during this ‘middle section’ and just went into an auto pilot mode, burping up cliché’ after cliché’ and really over using what could have been a fun little plot point. Don’t get me wrong, there are definitely some laughs, but all in all, the movie drags a bit here.
The last 30 minutes or so ramps up, and we get more of the action sequences we were expecting from the trailers. This is where I have to be careful because, as I said before, I don’t want to give away any spoilers. Suffice it to say, we DO learn how Captain Marvel will fit into the MCU in “Endgame”, as well as some interesting little twists along the way.
So, in going ‘back’ to move forward, “Captain Marvel” has set the stage for phase 4 of Marvel’s cinematic franchise. While certainly not Marvel’s best ‘solo’ hero movie, it’s certainly not the worst, (that dubious honor belongs to “Iron Man 2” in my opinion) and it’s certainly enjoyable as sort of a ‘Saturday afternoon matinee’! Story line, what little there is of it, is a bit contrived and confusing at times. As for character development, there were so many, so none of them was really explored in-depth. It was certainly nice to learn more about Fury, and how everything ties in together. There were a few moments in this film when I felt that it was heading into a ‘preachy’, feminist, “#metoo” direction, but thankfully it pulled itself back. It’s going to be tricky, moving forward with this character, to not fall into that trap. I hope Marvel can do it, because Captain Marvel could be a very interesting character. I would still recommend seeing it to fill in the last gaps before “Endgame”. This movie does at least explain why Danvers has been absent, and that was satisfying. So, in short: Dull story, some funny dialogue, mediocre villains, and a predictable plot. CGI was well done.
**Please note that I was invited to a complimentary viewing of this movie on Monday March 4, 2019 so that I could bring you this review on behalf of Krista Joy at Disneyways.com. The free admission in no way influenced my review, and all opinions are my own.**
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Peter Alden Grigsby is a Florida native. Pete has appeared in an episode of the Mickey Mouse club, was a Jungle Cruise Skipper, “friend” of the Rocketeer, tram driver on the backlot tour, and opening day cast member at Disney’s Hollywood Studios (formerly MGM). When he’s not writing movie reviews, he is performing as a singer and tribute artist all over the world and currently has a cover album of Disney songs called Kingdom Classics
As seen on major Disney Fan sites such as Disney World Enthusiast, WDW Hints, WDW Magazine, City Surfing Orlando, Disneyways.com and many more! Rave reviews from all major Disney influencers and talk show hosts are online now – for Peter Alden’s Kingdom Classics CD. Get ready for Classic Disney songs, with a retro rock vibe!! Peter Alden captures the ‘classic’ feel of the golden age of rock and fuses it into some of your favorite Disney classics!!
Momosa Publishing LLC (Momosa Publishing), one of the United States’ leading publishers of health, parenting, inspiration, and children’s books, is proud to announce its donation of 25 books to the Literary Luau at Lakeview Elementary on January 26, 2019.
Momosa Publishingmarketing director Krista Joyhas a close connection to this special event. She manages the career of well-known local entertainer Peter Alden, whose adopted son Gabriel Grigsby’s courageous battle with rare genetic brain disorder Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) led to the family’s quest to add ALD to the list of newborn screenings in Florida.
ALD affects 1 in 18,000 people, primarily boys and some men. It destroys the protective sheath that surrounds the brain’s neurons — the nerve cells that allow us to think and to control our muscles. Championed by State Rep. Mike La Rosa (R-St. Cloud) for years, the ALD screening requirement became state law in May 2018 in honor and memory of Gabriel, who was 10 when he passed away in July 2013. It is a fitting legacy for the brave boy who fought against such tragic circumstances.
Gabriel attended Lakeview Elementary and the organizer, Stephanie Walcott was his favorite teacher. Gabriel’s father, Peter Alden, will perform a 15 minute set of songs from the film “Blue Hawaii” at the Literacy Luau. Peter Alden is a veteran of the Legends in Concert Stage and a full-time entertainer.
“Giving back to our communities is so much a part of who we are,” Momosa Publishing co-founder and editorial director Jennifer Reichsaid. “Krista’s relationship with Peter Alden – and his efforts to add ALD to the screening protocol – along with our ties to Florida and Orlando in particular – make our team a strong supporter of the event. We couldn’t be happier to participate in the Lakeview Elementary Literacy Luau.”
To kick off Literacy Week, Lakeview Elementary will have the Literacy Luau on January 26, 2019 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. This event will have many Hawaiian themed literacy activities, a book fair, and an opportunity to meet an author. The school will have community members including; Orlando City Soccer and Wonderworks passing out books to students. Families have an opportunity to read together in our butterfly garden and watch the special guest performances on stage. It will be a day filled with reading, learning, and fun!
Momosa Publishing’s mission of helping people raise healthier, happier families is rooted in its commitment to children. Along with its trademark Mommy MD Guides series of advice on children’s health from the country’s leading doctor moms, the firm has published a number of other child-centered books.
Reich’s two sons, Tyler, 13, and Austin, 11, collaborated on a series of enchanting stories of animals exploring the Magic Kingdom. Launched in August 2017, the “Adventures of the Real Animals in the Most Magical Place on Earth” children’s book series tells the stories of the real live animals that make their home in the most magical place on Earth. At the event, Joy will read a portion of the first book in the series, “The Adventures of the Rabbits in the Most Magical Place on Earth” and present Momosa Publishing’s donation of 25 books.
Save Money! Pre-Order”Peter Pan’s Flight” (Written and Narrated by Krista Joy from Disneyways.com) This DVD is now available for pre-order from Theme Parkology!
Click below for a sneak peek!
Come one everybody, here we goooo!! This whimsical documentary explores the history of the attraction and was written and narrated by the talented Krista Joy, intro music by James Presley, and animated title sequence by C. Andrew Nelson.
This will be a wonderful addition to your Theme Parkology collection.
Pre-order until November 5th 2018 and SAVE!! DVD is only $15 when you make this advanced purchase atTHIS LINK.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: 
story, where we learn that a race of people called ‘Kree’ is in a war with another race called the ‘Skrulls’. We learned a little about them in “Infinity War”, but we get more of an insight in this film. The Skrulls are shape shifters, and can control their appearance. This is where we first meet “Vers” played by Brie Larson, who comes off fairly well. She presents a “girl-next-door” type of personality, while also being perfectly believable as a woman that can handle herself in any situation. At times she comes off a bit ‘wooden’, but hey, it’s a superhero movie, not “Titanic”. Vers is dealing with reoccurring nightmares about people she feels she knows, but can’t explain why. She also has a mysterious power that even the Kree don’t understand, but properly harnessed could make her one of the most powerful beings in the Universe. Her mentor, Yon-Rogg (Jude Law) is doing his best to help her figure out both who she is, and how to control her powers. Training her to control her emotions, as that is how she can ultimately control her powers. Jude Law is certainly capable, and believable in what he is being asked to do. That said, it’s not much! His character is certainly not explored to the degree it could have been. The chemistry between Law and Larson is not quite Luke Skywalker/Obi-Wan Kenobi caliber, but acceptable. Much like an older brother helping his younger sister. After learning that the Skrull commander, Talos (Ben Mendelsohn) has captured Soh-Lar a Kree spy. Vers joins Yon-Rogg and a Kree rescue team to retrieve Soh-Lar. Of course, things go terribly wrong and Vers winds up separated from her team, and on a collision course towards Earth. For me, Ben Mendelsohn comes close to stealing this film! He gets some of the best lines in the movie, and delivers them brilliantly. This character, sadly, is not explored much either, but Mendelsohn managers to capture a menacing presence, without coming off as a typical ‘casting couch’ villain. He also demonstrates some brilliant comic timing.
Disneyways 