‘The Wheeler Dealers’ on DVD

Posted on May 4, 2017 by Francine Brokaw

James Garner and Lee Remick star in the 1963 comedy The Wheeler Dealers. The film is about Molly Thatcher (Remick), one of the few women working on Wall Street, and Henry Tyroon (Garner), a master of making deals.

Tyroon is in need of a lot of money. This Texan goes to NYC to rustle up some cash – his way. Although he puts on a show of being a dumb Texan, in reality he is a highly educated Ivy Leaguer with the knack of making deals. His act helps him pull off some doozies.

When Thatcher is given an almost impossible job of raising interest and the bottom line of a company no one has heard of – Universal Widget – she joins forces with Tyroon. Although he has the good intentions of helping her with her job, he also has another motive. He is in love with her.

While the two work together on the Widget account, Tyroon is also making deals to help his own bottom line. By buying and selling things, he manages to put together some interesting transactions. Although the viewers might get a little confused about how he wheels and deals, that really isn’t as important as the fact that he actually does it.

While he is dealing and wooing Thatcher, she is all business. She is intent on keeping her job and raising the female role in an almost male-dominated profession. But who could resist the charms of Tyroon? When he finds out she loves a restaurant, he buys it. When she mentions she likes a painting, he buys a bunch of paintings. But his goal is not only to impress her. He also has his finances in mind. Combining the two works out well.

Lee Remick’s wardrobe is a knock out. This was the era of the beautiful Jackie Kennedy style and she carries it off wonderfully. The best part of the film, however, is James Garner. His expressions are priceless. He was nominated for a Golden Globe for his performance in this movie.

The Wheeler Dealers is part of the Warner Archive Collection and can be ordered directly from their website or where DVDs are sold. The film is not rated however there are no objections elements so 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.

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‘Bambi’ turns 75

Posted on May 1, 2017 by Francine Brokaw

Disney’s Bambi, which celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, joins the Walt Disney Signature Collection. The Collection release includes a variety of new bonus material, including recordings of Walt Disney discussing the challenges and triumphs during the production of “Bambi;” deleted scenes and characters; stories and effects that “Bambi” had on the Studio, other films and artists; and much, much more. Additionally, the Digital HD release includes an exclusive, heartfelt feature on the incredible artist, Tyrus Wong, who inspired the film’s soft watercolor backgrounds and beautiful palette. Bambi arrives home on Digital HD, Disney Movies Anywhere, and on DVD & Blu-ray™ May 23rd.

DisneyNature’s ‘Born in China’ plush animal babies

Posted on April 30, 2017 by Francine Brokaw

The newest DisneyNature film, Born in China, follows several animals as they make their way through life in the rugged terrain of China. We all associate pandas with China. This film includes these highly adored animals. Other animal families are a snow leopard mom with two cubs and a golden monkey family. Granted, nature is not always filled with warm and fuzzy moments. There are harsh realities in this film, but viewers have taken the panda Mei Mei, the two-year-old little golden monkey Tao Tao, and the snow leopards to their hearts.

Now Disney Store has joined with the World Wildlife Fund to bring animal lovers three adorable plush babies representing three sweet animals from the film. All of them are super soft and huggable

Tao Tao will steal your heart. This golden monkey has a sweet expression on his little blue face. His arms are welcoming for any and all hugs. He will be a treasured friend for all ages.

The snow leopard cub has a cute pink nose and a loving face. The soft plush has the printed snow leopard spot design made in faux fur. It is the perfect pal for little ones to hug and cuddle with in bed.

And Mei Mei, the little panda cub, has a loving expression as if to say, “I love you. Please love me.” This little cub will be cuddled by kids and by the young at heart.

The snow leopard cub has an eleven-inch long body with an eight-inch tail. Tao Tao sits at nine inches with his soft nine-inch tail behind him. And little Mei Mei measures nine inches high.

They are all adorable. It might be tough to choose a favorite, however kids will no doubt have one that they want to cuddle with the most. And with the very soft faux fur plush, they are all super cuddly.

Each little plush Born in China animal lists for $14.95 from The Disney Store.

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.

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It’s vacation time with the tiger family on ‘Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood’

Posted on April 28, 2017 by Francine Brokaw

On May 8, 2017 Daniel Tiger and all his friends and family return for another season of great fun. The one-hour season premier, “Tiger Family Trip,” is a colorful and musical experience for preschoolers.

For us humans, summer is quickly approaching and that means vacations. It’s the same for Daniel and his family. They embark on Trolley for a visit to Grandpere. Anyone who has ever traveled with a child has heard, “Are we there yet?” That’s the same for the Tiger family. Daniel gets a little impatient on the journey.

Luckily for Daniel, mom has made a map of all the new things they will see and experience on their excursion. First they take a winding road, then have fun on the Dinosaur slide, then visit the butterfly garden. All of these experiences are new for Daniel and Margaret. They are all “Tiger-tastic.”

The journey to Grandpere’s is the first half of the show. The second half is all the fun and new experiences at Gandpere’s house. First the family enjoys dinner outdoors next to a fire. Then Daniel gets to sleep in his sleeping bag.

The next morning they again get to eat outside, which is exciting for the little tigers. They all get on Grandpere’s boat to travel to Tiger Island where they are “adventure tigers together.” Daniel and Grandpere go on an exciting treasure hunt and everyone has fun and new experiences on their vacation.

“There are so many things to do and see when you’re on a trip with your family!”

“We’re thrilled families across the country will be able to join us on ‘Tiger Family Trip’ as Daniel deals with new and exciting experiences,” said Lesli Rotenberg, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Children’s Media and Education, PBS. “As research continues to show the positive effects Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood has on children’s social and emotional learning, we hope this one-hour special will offer helpful road trip strategies for families on the go.”

“New experiences, such as a family vacation, can be scary as well as exciting for preschoolers, and we’re delighted to introduce important – and fun – strategies in this new special that can help make road trips a smooth ride for both parents and young children,” said Paul Siefken, President and CEO of The Fred Rogers Company. “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood addresses the issues that affect families most, and the episodes premiering on PBS KIDS this spring are all designed to help young viewers learn and grow.”

“Tiger Family Trip” and “Going to See Grandpere,” are two books now available on Amazon. The “Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Travel Album,” features 13 new songs and is now available on iTunes, Amazon, Google Play, and Spotify. And the DVD of “Tiger Family Trip” hits the shelves may 16.

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood is filled with Grriffic fun for everyone!

“Tiger Family Trip” premiers Monday, May 8, 2017 just in time to prepare for your own family vacation.

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‘Spencer’s Mountain’ is a great family film now on Blu-ray

Posted on April 28, 2017 by Francine Brokaw

Spencer’s Mountain was the foundation (no pun intended) for the popular TV drama The Waltons. From writer Earl Hamner who penned the novel as well as created the TV series, Spencer’s Mountain follows the Spencer family as they raise their nine children on a beautiful mountainside in Wyoming.

Henry Fonda plays Clay Spencer with Maureen O’Hara costarring as Olivia Spencer. James MacArthur is Clayboy, aka Clay Spencer Jr. Clayboy’s desire for knowledge is his driving force. He is the first Spencer to graduate from high school and he wants to go to college. The problem is he needs a scholarship because the family cannot afford the tuition and other expenses.

While the family focuses on getting the scholarship and money for their oldest child to go off to college, Clay continues to work in the quarry while building his dream house on the top of the mountain. Clayboy is being wooed by his childhood friend Claris (Missy Farmer), a willful young woman whose hormones are raging and who entices Clay into more than their usual pecks on the cheek.

Clay and Olivia have a houseful with their nine children and Clay’s mother and father. His eight brothers live nearby. This large family is not the richest or the poorest family in the valley, but they are the best known. The mountain was named for them when the patriarch settled there. This story takes in three generations of the Spencer family.

There are many similarities between this movie and the TV show that aired from 1971-1981. First is the family. Viewers will see comparisons between them and the Waltons. Another is a reference to the “recipe” that two women make from their father’s recipe. This concoction manages to cause a ruckus when Clay has the new minister (Wally Cox) imbibe in the liquid. The minister had never had alcohol and it quickly takes its toll on him. Unfortunately, the entire town is witness to their inebriated new minister.

Bonus features look at the town of Jackson Hole, Wyoming, the location where the film was shot. Many townsfolk played parts in the film, and the movie’s premier took place there. Another bonus is a roundup of interviews with Henry Fonda when the town and the media were all gathered together preparing to view the film’s premier.

Spencer’s Mountain is a great family film. This 1963 movie is filled with family love and dedication. The Blu-ray release is part of the Warner Archive collection and can be ordered from their website or online retailers.

Stay at The Anabella Hotel in Anaheim before it closes!

Posted on April 27, 2017August 12, 2025 by Francine Brokaw

The proximity to a variety of locations makes The Anabella Hotel a convenient place to hang your hat when you’re in Anaheim. It’s across the street from the Disneyland Resort, next door to the Anaheim Convention Center, and a short drive to Knott’s Berry Farm and several other Southern California activities. This is a quaint boutique-style hotel with plenty of amenities.

The rooms are comfortable with complimentary Wi-Fi. There is a fitness center on site as well as two pools and a Jacuzzi. With 358 rooms it might be considered a major hotel, however it doesn’t feel like a big time hotel with all the hubbub and hustle and bustle associated with them. It’s just a cozy hotel that offers plenty of amenities. They even have a kid’s suite with Disney designed décor so your little ones will still feel like they are at the resort when they get back to the Anabella.

There is a small Frozen Yogurt shop and a gift shop across the driveway from the lobby. The gift shop has plenty of cold beverages you can buy to take back to your room, as the rooms are equipped with refrigerators and safes.

The Tangerine Grill and Patio has a variety of options for all kinds of tastes. My personal recommendation for lunch or dinner is the Ultimate Grilled Cheese Sandwich. A grilled cheese sandwich? Absolutely. There is plenty of aged cheddar and Gruyere to make this a very cheesy sandwich. And if you want, it comes with caramelized onions (I opted not to have this). The piece de resistance is the Parmesan crusted sourdough bread. If that doesn’t make your mouth water, nothing will. This is delicious. If you don’t want this there are plenty of other options from which to choose, for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

If you have a car, there are many wonderful restaurants just a short drive down the street. And don’t forget Disneyland and Downtown Disney across the street. While you cannot simply go to the corner and cross the street to get into the resort, the walk is a pleasant one. And you can purchase your Disneyland Resort tickets at the front desk if you plan to go into the parks.

By the way, if you are coming down to the D23 Expo this summer, definitely look into the Anabella Hotel. It’s adjacent to the Convention Center, making it a convenient place to rest between long days at the Expo.

For packages and special offers, visit their website.

The hotel will be closing after the D23 Expo to be demolished and completely rebuilt, so this is the time to get in on the final deals at this hotel.

‘You’ll Never Get Rich’ on Blu-ray

Posted on April 27, 2017 by Francine Brokaw

Fred Astaire and Rita Hayworth star in this 1941 black and white musical with songs by Cole Porter. You’ll Never Get Rich was nominated for two Academy Awards, both for its music. While there are no memorable songs in the film that have lasted through the years, the story is adorable and the dancing is top notch. After all, what else would you expect from an Astaire film?

Astaire plays Robert Curtis, the choreographer for a big NYC theater. Rita Hayworth is Sheila Winthrop, one of the new dancers in the group. Robert Benchley is Martin Cortland, the owner of the theater and a philanderer who buys diamond bracelets for women he wants to seduce while splurging on a back scratcher for his wife (Frieda Inescort) for their anniversary.

When Mrs. Cortland discovers her husband’s latest indiscretion, everything gets mixed up. Sheila is interested in Robert but Martin bought the bracelet for Sheila. Then his wife sees the inscription and, well, that’s where this comedy begins. Martin gets Robert to cozy up to Sheila so he can convince his wife that the bracelet is Robert’s. Robert goes along with the scheme but finds himself falling for Sheila. She is excited because she has been interested in him from the start. When Sheila realizes it is all a scam, Robert is rejected.

After a whacky encounter at Sheila’s apartment, Robert figures the best thing for him to do is to join the army. Now, if you thought the wackiness in the city was the end of all the scheming and plotting, think again. There is plenty more tomfoolery in the army. Robert’s new army friends help him woo Sheila when she is on the base visiting her old friends, one of which is Robert’s captain and hopeful fiancé of Sheila.

This all sounds confusing and complicated, but trust me, it’s not. Once you start watching all the characters fall into place, some of them literally. And there are plenty of wonderful dance sequences with Astaire and Astaire and Hayworth. Plus, the comedy will have viewers laughing out loud.

Astaire and Hayworth continued to dance together the following year in the 1942 movie You Were Never Lovlier.

You’ll Never Get Rich is a new Blu-ray release from Twilight Time. It’s enjoyable and a fun film with a cast of great characters. It is a witty, clever comedy that will leave you happy.

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Clips from ‘The Mr. Peabody and Sherman Show’ season 4 on Netflix

Posted on April 20, 2017 by Francine Brokaw

Returning for season four are Mr. Peabody and Sherman for more antics.

Season four finds Peabody and Sherman, after losing their talk show to the evil Guapo Brothers, hunting down a gang of historical outlaws in order to get it back. Their adventures also include helping the first K9 Police Force with its first criminal case and having the first dentist attend the show to remove Sherman’s tooth.

Kevin Spacey will host the Tony Awards on June 11, 2017

Posted on April 19, 2017 by Francine Brokaw

Kevin Spacey is one of a few actors in Hollywood who can do it all. He is just as good at drama as he is at comedy. He can sing and dance. In other words, he’s the whole package. Spacey has won two Oscars, a Golden Globe, and a Tony in his long and successful career. His latest gig will be hosting the Tony Awards from Radio City Music Hall in NYC.

Spacey has played a variety of characters in his career, including Richard Nixon, Bobby Darin, and his current role as President Frank Underwood in the Netflix series House of Cards.

“I was their second choice for Usual Suspects, fourth choice for American Beauty and 15th choice to host this year’s Tony Awards. I think my career is definitely going in the right direction,” quipped Spacey. “Maybe I can get shortlisted to host the Oscars if everyone else turns it down.”

Jack Lemmon was his mentor and Spacey was/is close with the Lemmon family, including Jack’s son Chris who fondly referred to him as his “brother” during an interview we had years ago.

Spacey was the Artistic Director of The Old Vic Theatre Company in London for over ten years however he has now relinquished that position. His countless awards and nominations has set the actor in high regard in both the film and live entertainment businesses.

“We are thrilled to have Kevin, who has mastered the Broadway stage, the big and small screens and the West End, host this year’s Tony Awards! His spirit and passion for live theatre makes him the perfect host, and we can’t wait to see the energy he brings to Radio City on Tony night!” said Charlotte St. Martin, President of The Broadway League, and Heather Hitchens, President of the American Theatre Wing.

The Tony Awards highlight excellence in the past year on Broadway. The nominations will be made May 2. The 71st Annual Tony Awards airs June 11 on CBS.

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“The Red Turtle” DVD GIVEAWAY

Posted on April 18, 2017July 20, 2017 by Francine Brokaw

Marking the much-anticipated return of Studio Ghibli, this masterfully animated fantasy film tells the story of a man shipwrecked at sea who becomes stranded on a beautiful but desolate island. He learns to live in isolation, seemingly tormented in his efforts to escape the island by a giant red turtle. Miraculously, soon he comes upon a young woman and they create a family together.

For a complete review of this DVD, click here.

We have some DVDs to giveaway.

To be eligible to win a copy of The Red Turtle, email us at [email protected] with “The Red Turtle Giveaway” in the title. Please supply your name, address, phone number and email address (so we can let you know if you are a winner).

The deadline for this giveaway is May 5, 2017.