Author: Francine Brokaw

‘Tully’ – Motherhood is a tough job

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


In the new movie Tully, Charlize Theron is front and center in this story of motherhood. No one said it was going to be easy, but it is rewarding.

Theron is Marlo, a mother of two with a third coming any day. Let’s face it, the final days of pregnancy are rife with frustrations and uncomfortable feelings. But when the baby arrives, the tide turns. No longer is there a new baby on the way…it’s here! And now Marlo is the mother of three – a daughter, a challenging son, and a new baby girl. Her husband Drew (Ron Livingston) is caring but not hands-on, which would be a big help. Taking care of one child is hard enough, but three is, well, it could send someone over the edge. Even Marie Osmond and Brooke Shields have come out publicly about their experiences with post partum depression. While Marlo isn’t displaying these symptoms, she is suffering from exhaustion and being over worked. Motherhood is a tough job.

Enter Tully (Mackenzie Davis), a night nanny who arrives in the evenings and takes care of the baby and the house, thereby giving Marlo time for much-needed sleep. Tully takes over and adds the inspiration Marlo desperately needs. She is encouraging and honest. She also has a sixth sense of what Marlo is going through, what she needs, and how to help make her life easier. We could all use a Tully.

Parenthood, especially motherhood, doesn’t come with a manual. New mothers should be celebrated. They have a tough job. But while taking care of their children, they have to learn to take care of themselves. Asking for help is not a bad thing. On the contrary, it shows that you will do whatever it takes to care for your family, which also means caring for yourself. After all, if you are not taking care of yourself and running at your best, then you can’t do a good job being a mom. It is all interconnected, which is exactly what Marlo discovers.
This is a cute yet sensitive story celebrating the trials and tribulations of motherhood. Congratulations, moms of the world. You have a thankless, challenging, rewarding, and most difficult job.

Theron, Livingston, and Davis came to the special screening to introduce the film. Theron, who is a mom, said she is “absolutely in love with the film.” She said the film is about all of the things moms go through. She acknowledged being a parent is hard but also great!

Tully is rated R for language and some sexuality/nudity. It opens May 4, 2018.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 20 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

‘The Seagull’ takes Chekhov’s play from the stage to the screen

Posted on by Francine Brokaw



Anton Chekov’s beloved play The Seagull is now a motion picture with an amazing cast. Annette Bening, Saoirse Ronan, Corey Stoll, Billy Howle, Elisabeth Moss, Mare Winningham, Brian Dennehy, Glenn Fleshler) and Jon Tenney join together to bring a cast of dysfunctional characters to the big screen. A weekend in the Russian countryside estate turns into a cathartic session of life, love, and family dynamics.

Sorin (Dennehy), a retired government employee, and his sister Irina (Bening), a famous Moscow actress, entertain their friends while everyone is coming to terms with their age and unrequited love. Irina is a conceited, selfish woman who is not the typical mother to her son Konstantin (Howle), and flaunts her younger lover Boris (Stoll), a famous writer. Konstantin desires to be a writer, but is ridiculed at every turn by his mother.

The estate is managed by Shamrayev (Fleshler) and his wife Polina (Winningham) with their daughter Masha (Moss) helping out. Masha is truly in love with Konstantin but knows he has no feelings for her. Deeply depressed with her life, this young woman dresses in black as a symbol of mourning – for her life – and medicates herself with drugs and alcohol.

The object of Mahsa’s affection, Konstantin, is in love with Nina (Ronan), who wants to be an actress like his mother. Nina is a self-serving woman who will jump at any chance to further her career. During this weekend she falls in love with Boris. It’s as though the audience needs a map to connect the interpersonal relationships of this very dysfunctional group of people.

The story is rich with drama with plenty of humor relieving the tragedy of the situations.

Chekhov (1860–1904) is highly regarded for his probing stories of people and life’s situations. The Seagull was written in 1895 and the stories are still interesting and beguiling today. The play has been performed around the world to rave reviews.

Bening played Irina when she was a student at the American Conservatory Theater. “Irina is a passionate woman who is trying to get every last drop out of life that she possibly can,” she says. “She’s always trying to move toward joy and love and connection, but she doesn’t always get there. I sense that she didn’t achieve the stature that she wants. That’s part of what all of us who are trying to do something creative live with—how long will I get away with this, and is there something that’s gonna come up and take everything away? She feels good about herself until her son attacks her and then suddenly that part of her that is wondering where it’s all gonna go suddenly roars to the front of her consciousness and she’s confronted with her own vulnerability. She feels threatened and so she lashes out.”

“Nina is a bit of a dreamer,” says Ronan of her character. “She’s someone who is stuck in one place and yearns for something different. To her, like a lot of people, acting and the theater offer something exciting and new. She seems full of life, but I always think of Nina as quite a sad girl, actually. There’s something that’s just missing.”

Moss explained about Masha, “She can be angry and stubborn one minute, and then the next dissolve into tears, and then make a joke. There’s something wonderfully Bette Davis about her. But at the same time I think she’s the most self-aware character in the play. They’re not willing to accept their lot in life, whereas I feel like Masha sort of has. She has accepted that she’s not going to be happy— that’s just the way things are gonna go.”

This group of tangled relationships combines to create a dramatic story with wonderful performances.

The Seagull is rated PG-13 and opens in New York and Los Angeles May 11, 2018.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 20 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

Pixar Fest at Disneyland Resort through September 3, 2018

Posted on by Francine Brokaw



For the first time ever, Disneyland Resort is filled with all things Pixar for the Pixar Fest. This event encompasses both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure and there are plenty of great things to see and do, as well as eat and purchase during this special summer.

First of all, let’s face it. Disney Parades are always fun. And with the Pixar Play Parade, the characters from the beloved films are front and center. Leading the parade are, of course, the lamp and light that open every Pixar film. Another parade, the Paint the Night Parade, moves from Disneyland to Disney California Adventure and adds some favorite Pixar characters to the beloved and very colorful parade.


The creative chefs at the resort have designed several Pixar Fest specific items that will only be available during the event. From Toy Story there is a hearty cheeseburger pizza located at the Alien Pizza Planet. From Ratatouille there is, obviously, ratatouille, as well as berry-stuffed beignets. Monsters Inc. inspired color-changing noodles. Remember Randall changed colors in the film. Well, these delicious chilled noodles change from blue to pink when spritzed with lime and dressing. And, they are really tasty. Fried Bologna Sandwiches, Berry Funnel Cake, a variety of caramel apples and cake pops plus many other delectable items can be found throughout the two parks.

Guests to the Disneyland Resort also get a chance to meet their favorite Pixar characters. Why not say “howdy” to Woody or see if you can catch Jack-Jack on the Incredicoaster.

There are many items to purchase to show your fun-loving Pixar side. Specially designed mouse ears, fun sippers, a Sully popcorn holder that fits together with a Mike Wazowski sipper, clothing, and of course characters of all shapes and sizes. And from Alex and Ani are some specially designed bracelets. Definitely bring your wallet because there are so many fun things to buy.

And whatever you do, make sure you stay for the Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular. This is not only a grand fireworks show, but it is also a laser show as well as combining extra features in this one incredible display. Buzz Lightyear starts off the spectacular flying overhead, and later guests are wowed by Carl’s floating house. Whether you’re standing in front of the castle to see the amazing visuals displayed on the front of the building with the fireworks exploding above, or over by “It’s a Small World,” or on Main Street USA, there are things to see all around you. The buildings on Main Street come alive with all the fun of the Pixar films. If you can, come back over and over again to catch this spectacular from different locations. You’ll get a unique experience and see different things every time. It’s an immersive nighttime spectacular.

Pixar Fest at Disneyland Resort is fun, fabulous, and full of excitement for all ages – and I do mean ALL ages. From ages 5 to 105, guests will be enchanted and entertained during this wonderful event. The theme is friendship and togetherness. Bring your family to Pixar Fest for some great memory making experiences.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

‘Maya the Bee 2: The Honey Games’ is a buzzing good time

Posted on by Francine Brokaw



She’s back and even sweeter than before, just like her honey. Maya the Bee stole the hearts of movie audiences in 2015 and she does it again in her second film Maya the Bee 2: The Honey Games.

When fun-loving Maya gets the hive into a jam, it’s up to her to save their summer honey crop, with the help of a team of misfit bugs and her best friend Willie. After upsetting the Empress of Buzztropolis, who happens to be the Queen’s sister, Maya must win The Honey Games or forfeit Poppy Meadow’s entire summer honey crop, which would mean certain death for many in the hive.

The Poppy Meadow team consists of a lackluster group of last-minute recruits who only want to lose quickly to get back to their humdrum lives. They are unaware of the issue of the honey crop. They are also uncoordinated, clumsy, and lack the desire to win. Maya decides in order to win she must make this ragtag group into a cohesive team. Teamwork is what will win the games, and the honey crop.

They are up against a team from Buzztropolis, led by a snobby group of mean girls. These selfish, conceited, snotty girls will stop at nothing in order to win the games.

Through discipline and motivation, Maya and her team manage to pull out several victories and on the way to the finals she learns the most important lesson of all. She must take responsibility for her deeds. This adorable and well-meaning little bee always feels like she has to solve all the world’s problems by herself. But just as she made a team out of the bugs from Poppy Meadow, Maya learns how to be part of a team herself.

The movie is colorful, exciting, and of course Maya is a character that will capture your heart once again. This high-spirited little bee is an inspirational character and one the entire family will enjoy. Her lust for life is infectious. Her giggles and laughter will ring in your ears long after the movie is over. She is definitely a delight.

Maya the Bee 2: The Honey Games is just as fun and entertaining as the original film, and Maya continues to be a bee to believe in! Yay, Maya. And go Team Poppy Meadow!

Maya the Bee has been a beloved character for generations, ever since she was introduced to the public in 1912 in the children’s novel, “The Adventures of Maya the Bee” by Waldemar Bonsels. She has gained international acclaim and fans in her TV series, books, and films. This is her second feature film with hopefully more on the way. Maya the Bee 2: The Honey Games is a fun family film with plenty of buzz. Enjoy!

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 20 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

‘Paddington 2’ – as sweet as marmalade and a pure delight

Posted on by Francine Brokaw



That adorable and loving little bear is back for an all-new adventure. Paddington 2 is a sweet story featuring the kind-hearted bear and his “human” family, the Browns. The cast from the original 2014 film reunites to continue the story of Paddington’s life in London.

With Aunt Lucy’s (voiced by Imelda Staunton) birthday coming up, little Paddington wants to send the perfect gift. He sets his sights on an old Pop-Up book about London. After all, Aunt Lucy always wanted to visit this fabulous city and the book will show her the sites of the town. To afford this book Paddington takes on several odd jobs, with plenty of humor. But just when he’s able to afford to buy the book, it is stolen. Not one to sit by while a theft is taking place, let alone the theft of something he has worked so hard for, Paddington takes off after the thief. But the poor little fellow is arrested because the police think he is the thief. How is this fluffy little guy going to survive in the rough and tumble world of prison?

True to form, Paddington sees the good in everything. While the Browns are trying to find the real thief, Paddington learns to settle in to life in prison. But not only does he keep his kindness and good manners, he teaches them to his fellow inmates. Yes, this furry felon has such a kind heart that it rubs off on everyone.

And when he accidentally turns all of the prison garb pink – a red sock in a load of white and black uniforms isn’t such a good thing to do – the entire prison population is now wearing pink jumpsuits. And what a lovely shade of pink. As Paddington points out, it adds a bit of color to the drab place.

And when he teaches the “chef” how to make marmalade, it cheers up the crowd. Soon the lunchroom is turned into a tearoom, and the rough inmates are turned into a bunch of well-mannered men. All thanks to the kindness of this one little bear.

The theme in the film is that seeing the good in people is more important than seeing the bad. And looking on the bright side is much better than dwelling on the dark side of a situation.

Sally Hawkins (Mary Brown), Hugh Bonneville (Henry Brown), Samuel Joslin (Jonathan Brown), Madeleine Harris (Judy Brown), Jim Broadbent (Mr. Gruber), and Judy Walters (Mrs. Bird) all return for this delightful sequel, with the addition of Hugh Grant as Phoenix Buchanan, an eccentric has-been actor.

Bonus features in this Blu-ray Combo pack include a look at how the filmmakers worked with stand-ins for Paddington while the human actors were filming their parts. As they say, it was much easier to work with humans than imagine where the little bear would be. After all, reacting to another actor is half of acting whereas reacting to a blank spot is, well, even more acting.

Another bonus looks at the magic of the Pop-Up book that was important to the little bear. These were popular a long time ago, and as the filmmakers discovered, filming the scenes where Paddington imagines taking Aunt Lucy through the pages of the book were not easy at all.

Other bonuses look at the kindness of Paddington and his outlook on life. After watching this film, hopefully his sweetness will rub off on all the viewers. There is a look at the cast and how they all relate to the little fellow, a “how-to” make a marmalade sandwich featurette, an adorable music video with Hugh Grant and the inmates performing a high-stepping music and dance number, and some other bonuses that add to the fun of this Combo pack.

Paddington 2 is rated PG for some action and mild rude humor. It’s a cute little movie with a memorable character and his heartfelt outlook on life. Marmalade sandwich anyone?

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 20 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

‘The Railway Children’ on DVD

Posted on by Francine Brokaw



In 1906 E. Nesbit penned the novel “The Railway Children.” Little did he know that this story would become a beloved tale for generations. It has since been made into films, TV series’, and performed on stage. This new DVD is a filmed version of the play performed at the National Railway Museum in Yorkshire. The staging is interesting and the actors bring the viewers right into their story. This version was broadcast live in England in 2016, and now American viewers can immerse themselves in this beloved story.

Roberta (Bobbie), Peter and Phyllis are upper class kids with maids and no worries at all. That is until their father is taken away and imprisoned for spying. Their mother moves them out to the country where their lifestyle changes overnight. They call their new house “Three Chimneys” and it’s there they become “The Railway Children.”

They live by the railway line where they hang out, watching the trains and waving to the people. As the days go by, they befriend some people who they would never have talked to in their former lives. They help out others and learn that they don’t need the trappings of wealth to be happy and vibrant human beings.

They then turn their sights on finding out about their father. They don’t believe he could be a spy.

This is a heartwarming story of family and friendship. It’s a little different in that it is a stage play, and performed in the museum. But the charm is still there. It has all of the discovery and adventure, as well as the lessons of friendship and helping others that is the heart of the story.

This DVD is not rated however it is suitable for all ages.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 20 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

‘Wanderland’ – Movie Review

Posted on by Francine Brokaw



Wanderland is a story about disconnecting from the electronics that seem to run our world and reconnecting with people. Tate Ellington stars in this story of finding meaning in life and learning to be in the moment.

Alex (Ellington) is 34-years-old. He lives in the hustle and bustle of New York City yet is isolated from the world. His computer is his connection to the outside world, so when he sees an email invitation to housesit in a cottage in the Hamptons, he is intrigued. The invitation was send to a group of people and this e-blast is something unusual for him. So he decides to take advantage of the invitation. After all, it’s only for one weekend. At least he’ll get some fresh air and possibly a new outlook on life. And that is exactly what happens.

While on Long Island, Alex loses all contact with the outside world. His cell phone dies and there is no GPS or any other electronic connection. And, to make matters worse, his car dies. So Alex unwittingly goes on a journey filled with strange encounters and even stranger people.

The film is described as an “Alex in Wonderland” adventure. The entire weekend is surreal with one unusual meeting after another. The people with whom he comes in contact are not his usual type. They are free and carefree. At first he is uptight and taken aback by it all, but as the hours pass he learns to let go and take it all in. After all, he has no choice.

The story is definitely a step away from his structured reality. It is a rather zany adventure filled with all kinds of strange people, yet Alex goes with the flow and discovers how to finally interact with people on a face-to-face basis, instead of through all the electronics that have taken over our lives. The “Alex in Wonderland” phrase definitely describes this story. Alex comes into contact with unusual people just as Alice did when she went down the rabbit hole.

This is not a film for everyone. It’s a zany, madcap kind of story. But the redeeming factor is that at the end Alex is a happier human being that can now survive without all his electronics. It’s a lesson for all of us. Unplug and connect via human interactions.

The movie is a little comedy, a little drama, and a little musical. It opens in select theaters April 20, 2018.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 20 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

Busy moms need the MyPhonePouch

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

There’s a new invention that makes life a lot easier for busy moms. It’s the MyPhonePouch. So, what is this new product? It’s a simple flip-over pouch with pockets, weighted down on one side to stay comfortably on your waistband. How simple is that? It’s a wonder no one thought of this before.

With the MyPhonePouch, simply attach it to your belt or waistband, insert your cell phone, keys, credit card, driver’s license, or whatever else you might need. There are pockets that snap to keep your items secure. Now you’re ready to go for a walk, to the playground, to the store, or to the gym and you don’t have to carry anything. Your phone and other items are safely secure on your waist. You’re now hands-free.

Not only is this product easy to use, it’s also comfortable. Whether you’re driving or walking, it stays put and doesn’t interfere with whatever you’re doing.

Imagine taking your child to the playground. From now on you don’t have to take a wallet or your purse. You can simply attach this unit to your pants (even yoga pants) and go. You’re hands are free and when you need to make a call or check your texts, just slip your phone out of the pouch, then slip it back in when you’re finished. This is actually a great little invention for moms on the go.

But not only is this perfect for moms, it’s also a great product to use when you’re in your office. With everyone walking around holding their cell phones, you can be the one who doesn’t have to hold anything. Your phone is tucked away on your waist. And women aren’t the only ones who will benefit from the pouch. Men can use it too.

It’s crazy these days. Everywhere you look people are holding their phones. What did we all do before cell phones were invented? (We got along just fine.) But now people are almost attached – literally – to their phones. With the MyPhonePouch, you can keep your phone with you but you don’t have to hold it. What a great idea. And you won’t have to search for it when you get a call and can’t locate your phone in your purse. Come on, admit it. There have been times when you can’t easily reach your phone. It happens to most of us.

If you have a teenager, think about getting a pouch for them. It makes it less difficult to lose their phone when they don’t have to find a place to keep it. It will always be on their hip. And it’s less likely to be stolen when it’s tucked in the pouch and not being held.

The MyPhonePouch comes in a variety of sizes and colors. Select the right one for your specific phone. They’re made in the USA, well designed and well crafted, and machine washable. Check out their website for sizes and purchasing information. This is definitely a handy product.
About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter

Disney Channel star Ethan Wacker is set to wow fans in Utah

Posted on by Francine Brokaw



Utah tweens will be delighted on April 14, 2018 when Ethan Wacker, the co-star on Disney Channel’s hit series Bizaardvark, will be greeting fans and signing autographs, as well as hopefully taking a few selfies. Wacker plays Bernie on the popular show and has amassed a loyal fan base.

This 15-year-old is a great role model for young kids, something parents can feel good about. He grew up in Hawaii, and like most kids on the islands he enjoys outdoor sports and activities, but he also likes skiing and has even won archery competitions. Talk about a well-rounded athlete. This young man does it all, and with great skill.

Unlike some young actors who are always looking out for themselves, Ethan has a good sense of community. He was part of the Hawaii Literacy organization, The Humane Society, and feels strongly about helping veterans. He’s no sloucher. He definitely has the spirit to “give back” and “pay it forward.”

Besides his current hit series, Wacker supplied the voice for Pip in the animated series Miles from Tomorrowland, another Disney Channel show. He is a young actor with a bright future in front of him. And if his fans have anything to say about it, he’ll be around for a long time.

If you are in Utah, you’re in for a big thrill when Ethan appears at the Traverse Outlets at Traverse Mountain (3700 N. Cabela’s Boulevard) in Lehi. Parents – bring your earmuffs as the adoring tweens will be screaming their hearts out for their idol. And make sure all the cell-phones are fully charged for all the photos that will be taken. Parents might want to snap a few for themselves because this guy is adorable.

Mark your calendars for Saturday April 14, 2018 from 1-3 p.m. This meet and greet with Ethan Wacker will be an experience young girls will remember for years.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 20 years. She also writes about products and travel. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books.

Follow her on Twitter