‘Elena of Avalor: Ready to Rule’ on DVD

Posted on December 1, 2016 by Francine Brokaw

Elena of Avalor is a popular series on Disney Channel. Elena is the second TV Disney princess, following Sofia the First. While Sofia became a princess when her mother married the king, Elena was born into royalty, along with her sister Isabel. Then on her 16th birthday an evil sorcerer trapped the young princess inside an amulet and her grandparents and Isabel inside an enchanted painting. Now, 41 years later, they are all freed, and their new adventures begin.

Elena is anxious to be crowned queen, however on the day of her coronation she learns she is still too young to rule, even though she is in fact 57 years old. The 41 years she spent trapped inside the amulet don’t count. She is still only 16 years old.

The first episode, “First Day of Rule,” sets the magic tone for this fairy tale land. Elena is anxious to help everyone in her kingdom and comes across some shapeshifting creatures known as Noblins. They too were unjustly treated by the evil sorcerer. She proves she is worthy of the crown, however, she knows she needs some time before she takes over, so she and the Grand Council (Francisco, her grandfather, Luisa, her grandmother, Duke Esteban, her older cousin, and Naomi, her new friend) will help guide her on the path to becoming Queen. And Elena also has Zuzo, an animal spirit guide to help steer her in the right direction.

Two more episodes are included in this new DVD. “All Heated Up” Elena and the Grand Council have different views as to how to stop a magical rock from erupting. Her kindness wins out. And in “Island of Youth,” while preparing a surprise birthday party for her cousin Esteban, he drinks too much from the Fountain of Youth and turns into a small child. Elena must save him.

Elena has a magical “scepter of light,” a beautiful glowing scepter that gives her special powers. A miniature projection scepter is included in the box. When the button is pressed, the scepter lights up and emits an image of Elena.

Flying creatures called jaquins (Luna, Skylar, and Migs) are half bird and half jaguar and very colorful. They are part of life in Avalor. Magic, mythology and folklore come into play in this series as Disney presents its first Latin princess. Elena learns not only how to lead, but also the importance of family, friends and self. She wants to do her best at everything and that involves making the right decisions.

Elena of Avalor: Ready to Rule is rated TVY.

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

‘Hairspray Live!’ on NBC

Posted on December 1, 2016 by Francine Brokaw

The latest musical to make its way onto live TV is Hairspray. This is the story of life in the 1960s, segregation, integration, and self-awareness.

Harvey Fierstein takes on the role of Edna Turnblad, one he embodied on the stage. He admitted he had not seen the film version with John Travolta in that role. He was also excited to bring the show to viewers live. The themes in the story are important to him and all the cast. “You know, music just brings us all together in a way that words just don’t, and when you see a story like this, which is told in such good humor and with such warm heart and such good purpose, I think it will do wonders. I hope so. That’s our aim, and we are each in this together to do that.”

Fierstein is definitely looking forward to the live telecast. “I am going to have the unbelievable honor of having Marty Short as my husband. Who would not want to have a love affair with Marty Short and to sing that wonderful ‘Timeless to Me,’ to do a duet with him?”

Maddie Baillio takes on the iconic role of Tracey Turnblad, the teen with a little extra weight but a lot of guts and moxie. “This is surreal,” the actress told the media. “This was my first audition outside of college and school.”

Ariana Grande is playing Penny Pingleton, Tracey’s best friend. “I never thought it would actually happen. It’s kind of surreal for me to even be a part of this,” she exclaimed. “I’m so grateful.” She added with plenty of enthusiasm, “Playing Penny has literally been a dream of mine since the original Broadway cast, since Kerry Butler originated the role. It’s a dream come true for me. So I don’t want to change anything about the role or, you know, how she develops. I just love Penny, and it’s just such a great honor to play her. So I don’t want any sort of special icing or parts. This is, like, really great, and I’m so happy.”

Kristin Chenoweth takes on the role of Velma Von Tussle, the woman who has ulterior motives when casting the dancing contest – her daughter. “I actually wanted to play this role originally back in ‘98, but I was too young, so I was hoping to graduate into one of the parts and here I sit. I saw the original movie and I guess now it’s the right time…”

Taking on the role of Maybelline is Jennifer Hudson, who admitted she was nervous about doing live TV. She adores the story and acknowledged, “So I feel I’ve been reintroduced to it in a different way now, now that I’m a part of it. I’m seeing it differently.

Derek Hough appears as Corny Collins, the TV personality and host of the dance show. Hough had done musicals in London prior to joining Dancing with the Stars. “And so to kind of get back into musical theater is a beautiful, beautiful thing, and I’m very excited about it and also just so excited to be among such incredible artists and human beings and people to, sort of, elevate and to reignite that sort of musical passion. So I’m excited.”

Hairspray Live! will air on NBC on December 7.

About the Author

Follow her on Twitter

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas: The Musical

Posted on November 30, 2016 by Francine Brokaw

Last night was the best way to kick off the holiday season at the opening night production of the musical play “White Christmas” at LA’s Pantages Theater. Honestly, having grown up with the classic film and having watched it at least once a year for many decades, I wasn’t sure what to expect from a Broadway play. After all, I knew all the nuances of every scene. But I must admit I was pleased with the production and it left me with a warm feeling and without any disappointment whatsoever.

While my vision of the story plays out in my head by the film actors, the stage actors did their roles justice. The choreography was fun and the songs were wonderful. Of course there had to be changes from the film version, but the way the story unfolds on the stage is a fun and different adventure for the audience to experience. The man next to me said he had never seen the movie (which I found almost impossible) and said he loved every moment of the play.

The high point is the finale when the entire production gathers on stage and encourages the audience to join in in the title song. While the whole theater is singing “White Christmas,” snow falls over the front part of the theater. It is an experience that puts everyone in a holiday spirit and a smile on everyone’s face. Indeed, it was a fun night filled with music, dances, and theatrical enjoyment.

If you go expecting a stage version of the film, you will be mistaken. Yes, the story is basically the same, but how the characters get from point A to point B is just a little different than the film version. However, it all makes sense and is filled with all the joy that the story, songs, dances, and the music of Irving Berlin intended. Don’t hesitate to catch this production if you can.

It runs in LA until December 4. Check the website for other locations.

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

Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Hawai’i

Posted on November 30, 2016August 12, 2025 by Francine Brokaw

Ohana means family, and everyone at Aulani truly knows how to make you feel like part of their ohana.

Upon arrival, you’re greeted with big smiles and the traditional lei. Once in the lobby, the beautiful high ceilings and artwork are a sight to behold. “As guests enter, they are flanked by a ki’i representing masculinity on the right, and a ki’i representing femininity on the left.” “A third piece, topped with the image of the ‘io, or Hawaiian hawk, represents the many generations of Hawaiian people who descended from these ancestors. (disneyaulaninews.com)

The Resort

The rooms are gorgeous and highlight the Hawaiian culture in big and small ways, from the lamps made with the same lava stone as the Pohaku ku’i ‘ai (poi pounders), to the rugs featuring taro leaves typical of Hawai’i. The “rooms are angled and views include ocean and partial-ocean, poolside garden, island garden, and standard”. (disneyaulaninews.com)

The concept of femininity and masculinity are echoed throughout the resort, with a mural of goddess Hina on the outside of one building, and a mural of demi-god Maui on the other.

Laniwai Spa

The word Laniwai means “freshwater heaven”. As Lucia Rodriguez, Spa Director, explained, Laniwai features 15 treatment rooms, each with a name inspired by rainbows, a full service salon and fitness center, and a hydrotherapy garden.

If you’re getting a spa treatment, plan on enjoying the Kula Wai Hydrotherapy Garden. “The 5,000-square-foot garden retreat offers pampering amenities, including private vitality pools, a reflexology path, six rain-style showers, whirlpool jet spas and a lounge area with a menu of healthy snacks”. (disneyaulaninews.com). Ask for a menu as you come in and enjoy lunch in the garden. You won’t be sorry.

Dining

There are plenty of dining options at Aulani.

If you want a quick bite, visit the Ulu Café. They offer fast service and plenty of options. Quick tip: buy the Aulani refillable mug when you arrive, and you will be able to reuse it throughout your stay (excludes alcoholic drinks).

You can’t miss the Disney Character Breakfast at Makahiki. The buffet is amazing, and who can say no to Mickey-shaped pancakes? The best part: Mickey and Minney come by to say “Aloha!” to all the guests!

For a beautiful dining experience, visit ‘AMA’AMA, the resort’s signature restaurant, located just steps away from the beach. Their menu consists of Contemporary Island cooking made with fresh local ingredients. Make dinner reservations and enjoy a stunning sunset worthy of a movie scene.

Entertainment

Pick up The Daily ‘Iwa, the resort newsletter, for a list of daily activities and entertainment offered at the resort for guests of all ages. Just a few of your options are:

Aunty’s Beach House

A “5,200-square-foot, state-of-the-art kids club designed to entertain and delight”. (disneyaulaninews.com) Kids, 3-12 yrs, can become part of Aunty’s extended ohana, while parents relax and enjoy some alone-time.

Stop by from 8-9:30 for the open house, and register your kids online (at least 2 but no more than 90 days ahead of time) to save time.

Children with special needs are accepted on a case by case basis.

Mo’Olelo Fire Pit Storytelling with Uncle and Moana

Learn about Hawaii’s legend and lore as you listen to master storyteller, Uncle, with his special guest, Moana, Disney’s newest heroine. The entire family will be mesmerized “as the stories come to life with magical effects”. (disneyaulaninews.com)

Island Excursions: Gold Coast Catamaran Experience

Sail aboard a 53-foot catamaran and enjoy an exciting adventure with Hawaii Nautical! During the shuttle ride to the beach, Adventure Guides will regale visitors with fun facts about Hawai’i flora, fauna, and folklore! Once aboard the catamaran, a lunch will be served. Bring your swimsuits and jump in the water for some snorkeling, or simply enjoy the tranquil view of Oahu’s Leeward Coast.

Other adventures offered include horseback riding, kayaking through protected inlets, and more.

KA WA’A – A Lu’au at Aulani

If you’re visiting Aulani you simply cannot miss their new and exciting KA WA’A luau! Disney incorporates Hawai’i tradition, music, and storytelling to create an unforgettable show that will move and inspire you.

“KA WA’A or “the canoe,” symbolizes the incredible journey across the ocean by the Hawaiian people–from ancient times to the present day.” (disneyaulaninews.com)

Before the luau, Disney cast members will teach you and your little ones the art of lei making, ku’i kalo (taro pounding), kāpala (printing), and the hula kahiko, a traditional Hawaiian dance.

Guest will also enjoy a veritable feast of traditional foods and lively music.

For your next family vacation, Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, Hawai’i, should definitely be at the top of your list!

For more information, visit DisneyAulani.com

Daniel Tiger Toys

Posted on November 27, 2016 by Francine Brokaw

It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood with Daniel Tiger and his family and friends. This celebrated PBS Kids series for preschoolers, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, has garnered a lot of praise and won the Television Critics Association 2016 award for best children’s program.

The Deluxe Electronic Trolley is a fun way for kids to “play” in the neighborhood with Daniel and his mom. The motorized trolley lights up and has two songs as well as 12 phrases from the characters in the show. It also emits real trolley sounds.

Push the top left button and the headlights turn on and the trolley song plays. Press the tiger button and Daniel asks, “Do you want to take a ride on trolley with me?” Press it again and he says, “It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood.” There are more sayings from Daniel and when the other buttons are pushed there are sayings from those characters as well. It’s a fun-filled trolley, especially when the top left button is pressed. It’s then when the trolley sounds come on with the headlights. How cool is that?

Also included in this set is a traffic stop so kids can obey the rules. It’s also a good way to help them understand when it’s safe to walk (when the green walking diagram is visible).

Push a button and the trolley rolls ahead. A handle on top makes it easy to carry and a fun set to take when visiting grandma or going out to the park to play.

This set comes with the two figures however many of the other characters from the show are available to purchase in separate sets to add to this trolley. The Deluxe Electronic Trolley requires 3 AA batteries, which are included in the box. This set brings all the fun and imagination of Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood to your own house. This trolley set is designed for ages 3+ and lists for $29.99.

There’s even more fun with the Daniel Tiger Phone. It looks just like a smartphone only is much easier to use! You won’t have to buy a “Smartphone for Dummies” book to use this one!

There is an on/off sliding button on the side. The phone includes real phone sounds and when the little trolley is slid from one side to the other, it jingles. The front of the phone has a keyboard as well as six photo buttons with various characters. When a number button is pressed, the number is said allowed so kids can easily learn their numbers from zero to nine.

When a character button is pressed the characters talk. There are 11 phrases in all, including Daniel saying, “Hi neighbor, it’s me. Daniel Tiger.” And when the two little phone icon buttons are pressed the Daniel Tiger song plays.

The Daniel Tiger Phone is for ages 2+ and lists for $9.99.

Daniel Tiger is a beloved character and his father entertained generations of viewers on the original Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood. Daniel is a sweet little guy with a lot of heart. With these toys kids can let their imaginations soar along with Daniel and his friends in the neighborhood.

About the Reviewer

Follow her on Twitter

‘The BFG’ on Blu-ray Combo Pack and Single DVD

Posted on November 27, 2016 by Francine Brokaw

Creativity abounds in this fantasy story about a little orphan girl and a giant. When Sophie is taken by a giant, she is at first a little afraid, but soon learns he is a friend and they become partners in his dream catching business. This Big Friendly Giant is filled with magic, making The BFG a fun film for the entire family.

The original story was penned by Roald Dahl (James and the Giant Peach, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, etc.) and the screenplay was written by Melissa Mathison (ET, The Black Stallion, etc.) With producers Kathleen Kennedy and Frank Marshall along with director Stephen Spielberg, the story of The BFG has been taken to the heart of millions of viewers. It’s now available on a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD Combo Pack as well as a single DVD.

Sophie calls the big friendly giant “BFG” and they become close friends. Unfortunately her life is put in danger by the other giants in Giant Country. These giants are much larger than BFG and are cruel. They even eat little human children.

Sophie comes up with a way to save the BFG from the other giants but it takes a visit to Buckingham Palace and assistance from the Queen to solve the problem.

There are plenty of bonus features on the combo pack. There is a featurette about the little boy who was the BFG’s friend long before Sophie came to his home. There is a feature about bringing the story to life from the inception when it was a bedtime story told by Dahl to his daughters, to the writing and filmmaking processes. Another feature shows viewers how combining motion capture with animation created the realistic giants in the film.

Another fun featurette is a short video by the little boy who had been the BFG’s friend long before Sophie and who taught him to speak English, even if he did mangle words. And speaking of words – no pun intended – there is a cute featurette about the actual words used by the giant. Gobblefunk is the language of the BFG. Words in this language include Swigpill (disgusting food), Frobscottle (a drink where the bubbles go down instead of up and cause some Whizzpopping, aka farting), Majester is his word for Majesty when he visits the queen, Whoopsy-Splunkers, Time-Twiddler, Phizzwizzards and more are part of this creative language combining words to suit the giant’s world.

The BFG is a unique movie that will capture the hearts and imaginations of viewers of all ages. There is something for everyone in this creative film. The BFG is rated PG for action peril, some scary moments, and brief rude humor.

About the Author

Follow her on Twitter

‘The Secret Life of Pets’

Posted on November 27, 2016 by Francine Brokaw

Have you ever wondered what your pets do when you’re not at home? That is what the filmmakers wondered. That is how they came up with this fun animated film for the entire family. The Secret Life of Pets is adorable and filled with plenty of animals that will steal your heart.

Max (voiced by Louis C.K.) is a content little dog who adores his owner Katie. Then one day she brings home another dog, Duke (Eric Stonestreet), who is a huge, loveable fellow. Unfortunately, Max is not pleased with the new addition to their family and sets out to make life miserable for his new “brother.”

Max and Duke end up separated from the others when their dog walker becomes distracted and soon the two pooches find themselves in danger on two fronts. First, they are targeted by a gang of mischievous former pets who are intent on revenge against humans who have mistreated them. A cute bunny named Snowball leads this gang. But don’t let his looks deceive you. He is filled with rage. The two dogs are also trying to evade the animal control truck.

When their friends learn they are missing, they set out on a mission to save them and bring them home. Among them are Gidget (a fluffy little dog who is in love with Max), Mel (a fun-loving pug), Buddy (an inventive dachshund), Sweetpea (a sweet bird), Chloe (a fat cat), Tiberius (a red-tailed hawk), Norman (a guinea pig), and Pops (a basset hound).

Bonus features on the combo pack include a look at how and why the filmmakers created the story as well as the voice cast. There is a funny and educational featurette about various real life animals with animal trainer Molly Mignon O’Neill in which she introduces viewers as well as voice actors Kevin Hart and Eric Stonestreet to these living critters. Plenty of other bonus features round out this fun-filled disc.

The Secret Life of Pets is available in a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital HD combo pack, a DVD, a 3D combo Pack and a 4K Combo Pack. It’s rated PG for action and some rude humor.

Look for the sequel in 2018.

About the Author

Follow her on Twitter

Jakks Pacific and Black + Decker Junior Ready to Build Workbench

Posted on November 27, 2016 by Francine Brokaw

Joining forces with Black + Decker, Jakks Pacific brings young builders their own Power Tool Workshop. It’s just like the adult version of the Black + Decker workbench only made for kids 3 and up.

Included in this amazing product is a battery-operated drill press, a miter saw, and a bendable flashlight so kids can work alongside dad – or mom. There are 75 tools and accessories for all kinds of “play” projects. This is the best way to play/work alongside an adult without getting injured or in any danger from real tools. Lights and sounds make this as realistic as possible and great for anyone who has a hankering to use tools but is just a little too young. It’s a great starter set for anyone who loves to create and be imaginative, and is perfect for playing alone or with others.

Whirring, rotating, and zapping are fun tools of the trade, so to speak, and this little workbench is sturdy too. Just insert 4 AA and 2 AAA batteries (not included) and your little one is ready to get to work.

Adult supervision is needed to assemble the workbench, which sits 21 inches wide, 16.25 inches deep, and 38 inches high. It can go right alongside dad’s full size workbench in the garage or in a playroom. The colors match the real tools in the orange/black/silver mode of Black + Decker.

There are places to put all the accessories once the workbench is set up and put in place. Screws and bolts, saw, hammer, screwdriver and other tools are neatly stored in their correct place leaving the workbench ready for any project. And, with their own hammer, screwdriver, and wrench, any kid is ready to tackle little jobs around the house.
Kids love to emulate adults and with this sturdy and realistic set, they are ready to let their imaginations run wild and construct, fix, and play just like dad – or mom.

Other items from the Black + Decker Junior line of merchandise from Jakks Pacific include a Junior Toolbox, Power Tools, a Tool Belt, a storage case, a simulating snowblower, and a toy BBQ Grill. But we all know the importance and reliability of Black + Decker tools. This workbench is a way to start any child off with a brand that will be part of their lives forever.

About the Reviewer

Follow her on Twitter

Moana Plush Toys

Posted on November 24, 2016November 24, 2016 by Francine Brokaw

If you’re still wondering what to get a child for the holidays, you cannot go wrong with a plush toy from the hit (and instant classic) Disney film Moana. Moana is the newest Disney princess.

In the film, Moana is introduced as a young child. This little toddler steals the hearts of viewers of all ages. And to commemorate the princess as a child, there is an Animator’s Collection plush young Moana. This 12-inch doll is ready to snuggle with any child. She comes dressed in her Polynesian clothes and wears her “shell” necklace along with the traditional flower in her hair. Moana’s face is embroidered so nothing can be pulled off by young hands. Her expression reveals the excitement and wonder of this little toddler. This little island girl lists for $14.95.

There is also an older plush Moana that is 20-inches in length (height) and is ready for adventure. Moana is not only a princess, but she is also a hero to everyone. This feisty girl really comes through for her people. Like her younger counterpart, Moana plush is made of soft plush with embroidered features. This Moana doll lists for $19.95

Maui is the demigod with some fun tattoos covering his entire body. This plush 15-inch doll carries his trademark fishhook and is ready to battle foes. He is also ready for some big hugs. How can anyone resist his wide grin? Plush Maui lists for $19.95.

Heihei is a whacky little rooster who is also ready for hugs from boys and girls. This brightly colored 12-inch plush has embroidered features and fluffy feathers. Heihei lists for $14.95.

The most adorable plush of the collection is little Pua, Moana’s pet pig. Pua is 9 ½ inches of cuteness. He’s soft and cuddly with embroidered features and an expression that will put a smile on anyone’s face. This little guy will not only be cherished by kids, but also endeared by adults. He’s super cute. After cuddling this little fellow, you might never want to eat bacon again. Pua is great for boys and girls. He lists for $14.95. There is also a larger 17-inch high Pua for $39.95.

With the plush collection from the Moana movie, there is a cuddly character for everyone.

About the Reviewer

Follow her on Twitter

Cats Empire Activities to download

Posted on November 22, 2016 by Francine Brokaw

CATS EMPIRE is available now to play on your mobile device; and here is a BRAND NEW activities button.