Author: Francine Brokaw

Crunchyroll streaming channel is for Anime fans

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

The streaming channel Crunchyroll is all anime. Gita Rebbapragada, Chief Operating Officer at Crunchyroll, recently spoke to the media about anime and the channel.

“I’ve worked in the anime industry for about six years now, but my love for these characters and through these stories actually started for me when I was very young. My father lived in Japan. He would bring home Japanese manga, which is Japanese comic books.”

Rebbapragada explained that contrary to popular thinking, anime is a medium, not a genre. Within anime are genres: comedy, action, horror, etc. Much of anime comes from Japanese comics and it has a specific look.

The hair and eyes of the characters are unique to this medium. 

“Shonen,” she explained, “is high-action, high-octane, fast-paced storytelling. There’s Shojo which is more of a personal and romantic relationship. And then there’s one of the fastest growing subgenres which is Isekai, and that is where a protagonist is transported or reincarnated into a different world, often a fantasy realm, parallel universe, or a video game-like setting.”

Last year, the anime movie “The Boy and the Heron” won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. This was a change from past winners.

“Gen Alpha and Gen Z, they over-index on anime. This generation finds this medium incredibly and deeply resonant,” she explained. “So here are some facts, courtesy of our friends at Polygon, that, when I saw them were pretty eye-opening for me.  42% of Gen Z are watching anime weekly. That’s compared to 25% of Gen Z that’s watching the NFL. 65% of anime viewers find that anime is more emotionally compelling than any other medium, which is why I believe this resonates so deeply with younger audiences.”

What is the competition for Crunchyroll? She stated unequivocally that it is gaming. And parents know how involved their kids get in their games. So Crunchyroll is another outlet in which they can explore and indulge in the medium of anime.

The medium has been integrated into pop culture. “If you look around you, you will see anime’s influence integrated into film, television, art, music, gaming, sports, you name it.”

According to Rebbapragada, Attack on Titan is one of the most popular and iconic anime shows and ranks high on the list of top TV episodes. She stated, “So with a broad mix of genres to offer, deep, deep resonance with young and diverse audiences, massive influence on popular culture, and growth that seems boundless, the punchline here is that anime is not niche. It is massive, it is mainstream, and it is the future.” 

Even though she insists anime is beloved by multi generations, there are many older viewers that prefer good old-fashioned animation. To each his or her own. Nevertheless, it does look like anime is gaining popularity and with Crunchyroll fans have a dedicated channel for their anime adventures with a large anime library.

Crunchyroll is a joint venture with Sony Pictures Entertainment, Aniplex, Sony PlayStation, plus Sony Music Japan, which she explained “produces some of the most iconic opening and ending music in anime shows.”

For those who want to check it out, Crunchyroll offers a free 7-day trial. 

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 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, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.

KAZE hair paddle brush from Mint Tools – Product Review

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

The new KAZE paddle brush from Mint Tools is amazing. When I received the package I was surprised. It comes in a beautiful pull-out box and is nestled in a satin bedding. This looks high end and it is. It is a stylish, eco-friendly brush with no glued parts and a removable bristle pad for easy cleaning. What else could you ask for? Plenty…

The hand-carved Ash wooden handle is easy to hold and feels good on the hand. The bristles are soft enough to grab the hair without pulling it and evenly distributes your natural oil from scalp to tips.

The brush is not only great for gently detangling your hair as well as for oil distribution, it also lightly massages your scalp. It’s kind of like a head massage on a stick.

The KAZE can be used on wet or dry hair. Try using it while blow drying your hair to see how smooth and silky your hair turns out.

The folks at Mint Tools developed this brush to gently detangle unruly hair (mine) without pulling it. 

When I brush my hair with my old brush I hear the hair ripping and breaking. But not with the KAZE. Usually when I get through brushing my hair there is a nest of hair on my brush. This hasn’t happened with the Kaze.

In Japanese the word “Kaze” translates to wind.

I am thankful to the folks at Mint Tools for sending this brush to me (without any expectations of coverage). It is now the only brush I grab from my drawer, especially before I go to bed. I do recommend it. 

While my hair constantly changes from just above the shoulder to chin length (I like to change things up), it is very course and wavy. This is a great brush for me. It is also a good brush for those with long hair.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw has been covering products, travel, and all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 35 years. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County.

Note: This unit was sent to me for an honest review with no expectations.

Celebrate Disneyland’s 70th with new food options

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

(Christian Thompson/Disneyland Resort)

Yes, there are plenty of places in the Disneyland Resort for a variety of food, however during the special 70th anniversary celebration they have added some new items that look very tasty.

Here are just a few of the limited time options for those of us with a sweet tooth (you know who you are!)

  • 70th Celebration churro, available at select churro carts: classic churro rolled in ube sugar topped with marbled blue raspberry icing drizzle and sprinkles 
  • Mickey-shaped celebration waffle from Schmoozies!: with strawberry whipped cream topped with sprinkles and powdered sugar 
  •  Pineapple upside down sundae from the Tropical Hideaway: DOLE Whip pineapple, caramel drizzle, and pineapple upside-down cake topped with a maraschino cherry
  • Mickey Hat cookie from Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe and Market House: cookie dipped in chocolate with a chocolate decoration reminiscent of the 1955 Mickey Mouse Club ears 

And for some savory items:

  • W.E.D. chili cheese baked potato from Troubadour Tavern: topped with beef and bean chili, cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and cornbread 
  • Hook’s Galley tuna melt from Red Rose Taverne: fresh tuna salad topped with Muenster and herb-marinated tomatoes served with house chips 

There are plenty more goodies in store during this celebration. For the roundup go to the Foodie Guide.

The celebration begins May 16, 2025.

 

Francine Brokaw

 

 

‘Lilo and Stitch’ in stunning 4K Ultra HD

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


Finally the beauty of this popular Disney film has been released in stunning 4K Ultra HD which highlights the colors and sound of the story of one little girl and one alien experiment who became “Ohana.” Fans of this emotional and adorable story of Lilo and Stitch can now enjoy it in all its splendor, just like popping into the film itself.

All of the characters are memorable, but none as much as little Lilo who lost her parents and is living with her older sister Nani. While Nani does her best, it’s not good enough and little Lilo is set to be taken away to foster care. But as we all know, that doesn’t happen!

Up in space Jumba is inventing experiments to do a variety of things, and his latest, 626, is causing havoc amongst the council. He is incarcerated but manages to steal a spaceship and eventually crash lands on Kauai, which happens to be the island where Lilo lives. 

The story continues with Lilo going to the dog pound and adopting her new “puppy” who really isn’t a puppy after all, but is in fact 626. She names him Stitch and soon the two are becoming best buddies. But the United Galactic Federation Grand Councilwoman has sent Jumba and member of the Galactic Federation Pleakley to recover 626 and bring him back to their planet.

While avoiding and evading his hunters, Stitch tries his best to fit in, with the help of Lilo. She tells him that Elvis (whom she idolizes) was a great example and he should follow him. Lilo is a bit quirky, but in her heart she is very lovable and just wants to be loved. She takes peanut butter sandwiches to Pudge the fish every Thursday. Why? Because Pudge controls the weather!

Lilo is a good girl and does her best but things don’t work out for her or Nani. However all’s well that ends well when the Grand Councilwoman comes to retrieve 626 and he tells her he found his Ohana. Ohana means family and family means no one gets left behind or forgotten. This sways and touches her and ultimately allows 626 to stay on Earth, with the caveat that Jumba and Pleakly look after the family.

Bonus Features (Bonus materials vary by format and retailer)

In one feature there is a brief Hula Lesson which explains the four basic steps (traveler step, hip sway, leg extension, and a combination) and viewers can follow along to learn a little hula.  Hula has been passed from generation to generation. It’s a living record and is described as a “dance of the heart.”

Another feature looks at how the filmmakers animated the hula scenes in the film. They knew the significance of the hula to the Hawaiian culture and wanted to honor it, portray it realistically with respect and accuracy. To do that they filmed an entire day of Hula in a Halau (Hula school) and made sure they put all the movements on paper – by hand. 

Another feature is a travel log of the Hawaiian Islands narrated by Nani and Lilo. Viewers see scenes from the big island of Hawai’i and learn about volcanos and lava flows. They then travel to O’ahu to learn about surfing and its history. On Maui viewers get the lowdown on leis and Luaus which celebrates life with food, music, and dance. Kaua’i is the most tropical island with plenty of rain and spectacular waterfalls. Lana’i used to have pineapple plantations but no longer. However, the warm waters there attract migrating whales. And Moloka’i has a small population but a long history.

While viewers see and learn about these islands, the history of Hawaii is also touched on by Nani with a little input from Lilo. (No, Lilo, it wasn’t Captain Hook who discovered the islands – it was Captain Cook!)

Two music videos and a behind-the-scenes featurette with Wynona who sings Elvis’ “Burning Love” in the film.

There is an adorable animated featurette, “A Stitch in Time: Stitch Through the Years,” that looks at how this little fellow tried to insert himself into various Disney films, acted as an extra in some films, and helped out around the studio before finally getting his own film.

And there are four Inter-Stitch-ials which were trailers for Lilo and Stitch inserting Stitch into Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, and The Lion King.

Lilo and Stitch 4K

This new edition makes the animation pop. It’s beautiful with the heartwarming story of Lilo and Stitch. The bonus features are included on the Blu-ray disc, which comes along with the 4K disc.

The characters were so popular there was a TV series highlighting Lilo and Stitch finding the perfect places for all of his “cousins.” After all, there were 625 experiments before him. Plus, there were some additional movies with Lilo and Stitch with plenty of antics and a lot of love for this Ohana.

With the live-action version of the film coming to theaters on May 23, 2025, this is the perfect time to revisit the original 2002 movie as it was initially envisioned. 

Lilo and Stitch on 4K Blu-ray (with Digital Code) is available on May 6, 2025. 

Aloha!

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 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, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.

All images supplied courtesy Disney Home Entertainment

Bring home ‘Tombstone’ in stunning 4K

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

With the recent death of Val Kilmer, the release of Tombstone in 4K Ultra HD is perhaps not only good timing but also very poignant. It is touted as one of his iconic roles in his long career.

Along with Bill Paxton, Sam Elliott, and Kurt Russell, Kilmer brings the legends of the old west to the screen. This 1993 film is just as entertaining today as it was when it was first released.

The story of U.S. Marshall Wyatt Earp (Russell), Morgan Earp (Paxton), Virgil Earp (Elliott), and Doc Holliday (Kilmer) bringing law and order to the town of Tombstone is filled with action and culminates with the big “showdown at the O.K. Corral.” 

When Wyatt Earp located to Tombstone he went there to make money and get rich with his brothers. But they encountered  the vicious gang known as The Cowboys, who were committing violence in the region. How will this end and will Tombstone find peace? Well, that’s all part of history and culminated at the gunfight at the O.K. Corral. 

The Earp brothers along with Doc Holliday are not all good and not all bad. They have aspects of both sides as the actors discuss in the bonus features. 

Michael Biehn, Powers Boothe, Jason Priestley, Stephen Lang, Thomas Haden Church, Dana Delany, Paula Malcomsom, Lisa Collins, Dana Wheeler-Nicholson, Harry Carey Jr., and Charlton Heston join the list of this top-rated cast. Also appearing are John Corbett, Billy Bob Thornton, Terry O’Quinn, Frank Stallone, and a lot of others that combine to make this a movie that has been a favorite among western fans, fans of history, and fans of the cast. 

There are several bonus features that include the original storyboards for the O.K. Corral Sequence. A “making of” feature looks at the ensemble that make up this dramatic film, a look at the Gunfight At The O.K. Corral, and a look at how the filmmakers created and authentic western film. 

By shooting this entirely on location near the actual places where the story unfolded, the movie is as authentic as possible. The filmmakers researched the layout of the town and the wardrobe of the characters to bring the most realistic version of this part of history to the screen. 

Wyatt Earp, a distant relative of the historic figure, is also part of the film and admits he thinks Kurt Russell plays the most authentic version of Earp. Russell said he researched the man and wanted to bring him to life with all his flaws, which he did.

The bonus features are almost as entertaining as the movie, with plenty of back stories and history of the time and the town, as well as the characters portrayed in the film. The cast is amazing and brings to life this part of the history of the old west. 

Saddle up and get ready for a wild ride.

Tombstone on 4K is now available on digital platforms, including Prime Video, Apple TV and Fandango at Home, and Movies Anywhere.

Tombstone is rated R for strong Western violence.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 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, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.

Courtesy Image

Manta Eye Cups – Product Review

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

If you have a Manta Sleep Mask, you know how comfortable it is. The eye cups are cushioned and protect your eyes. The mask itself does not touch your eyes making the adjustable cups that much more important. There are two additional packs of Eye Cups available that will bring more comfort whether you need some cooling or heat.

Sinus sufferers will feel more comfortable with the new cups. Some people prefer hot cloths on their eyes when they have a sinus headache and others prefer an ice pack. Take your pick with the Manta Sleep COOL Eye Cups or the Manta Sleep STEAM Eye Cups. This goes for migraine sufferers as well.

Manta Sleep COOL Eye cups come with a plastic bag in which to place the cups. Then put the bag in the freezer for one hour, remove them from the freezer and the bag and simply attach them to your Manta Sleep Mask. In seconds you’ll feel the cooling effect around your eyes. This is also great for tired eyes after a long day working on the computer.

The Manta Sleep STEAM Eye Cups are placed in the microwave for about 20 seconds, no more than 30 seconds, to heat them up. Then place the cups on your mask and adjust it on your head for a soothing effect that helps users unwind after work, play, or whatever. The warmth is a calming feeling.

Personally, I would recommend getting both packs as you never know when you can use some soothing eye care. 

The bottom line is I really do endorse these. I think they are great for anyone who suffers from eye pain, like myself.

If you don’t already have a Manta Sleep Mask, you can purchase one at their website. There is a variety of choices. And if the COOL and STEAM cups interest you, they do have a bundle pack with both of them along with the mask ($105).

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw has been covering products, travel, and all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 35 years. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites.

 

Images: Francine Brokaw
Note: These packs were sent to me for an honest review with no expectations.

 

 

‘Journey to You’ is a heartfelt story

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

Erin Cahill and Erik Valdez star in Journey to You, a story of finding oneself in the turmoil of a busy world.

Monica (Cahill) is a hard working Nurse Practitioner in a busy ER in Boston, Massachusetts.  Unfortunately, she just got passed over for a big promotion. Devastated, her mother talks her into taking a vacation to Spain to walk the Camino de Santiago, a place where she will be able to clear her mind and focus on what she really wants for her life.

Monica’s parents met while they were both walking the Camino so she knows a lot about what the spirit encounters during this weeks-long journey. 

Monica agrees to go and joins her small group consisting of Luis, a psychologist, his teenage son Mateo (Solal Bellaiche), his father and their guide. While Monica is there to look deeper into herself, Luis is there to bond with his son and have a memorable family adventure.

The group are the newest “pilgrims” to walk the trail. This is a historic ancient pilgrimage route that culminates at the Cathedral of Santiago and along the way every one in her group makes their own self-discoveries and are able to delve deep within themselves to find the courage, dedication, and honesty that is missing in their lives.

Newly divorced Luis is trying to bond with his son who is originally not interested in the journey or any of the sights. But soon he sees that life is different than he thought and he finds the courage to tell his father things about himself he never was able to do before. Some of this newfound courage is from the journey and some is from the encouragement given to him by Monica.

It’s an interesting trek for this group as little by little they let go of their stresses and confines of their everyday lives and bond with God in a way that helps them understand what they need in their lives and what they need to let go of.

During the trek Monica and Luis find themselves getting closer and in true Hallmark fashion, they do fall in love, which originally causes some stress with Mateo who feels his father cares more about Monica than his own son. 

As they saunter on, their minds begin to clear out the cobwebs and they discover new things about themselves and in Monica’s case, about her parents who met in the exact place she is. This realization is heartening to her, especially because her father has passed away.

Many people have undertaken this religious journey and have found more clarity in their lives, and this group is no exception.

Journey to You premieres April 19, 2025 on Hallmark Channel and the following day is available to stream on Hallmark +.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 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, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.

Image supplied courtesy Hallmark Media.

Fun Facts about Disneyland’s ‘it’s a small world’

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


it’s a small world is a favorite attraction at Disney parks and everyone who has ever ridden it knows that memorable song. There are several facts about this fan favorite that you might not know.

  1. it’s a small world is never capitalized. It is always spelled with lower case letters. 
  2. The song by the Sherman Brothers is the only Disney song never to be copyrighted. Walt Disney wanted it to belong to the children of the world and as a tribute to UNICEF.
  3. The attraction was originally created for the 1964-1965 World’s Fair in New York.
  4. The attraction was moved to Disneyland in 1966.
  5. it’s a small world is in Disneyland, Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Tokyo Disneyland, Disneyland Paris, and Hong Kong Disneyland.
  6. Everything about the attraction was inspired by the art of legendary artist Mary Blair who not only contributed her whimsical art but also her blend of colors.
  7. All the art and designs in the attraction represent a childlike atmosphere. 
  8. A final third verse to the iconic song was written by Richard Sherman to honor the 60th anniversary of Disneyland and will be added to the attraction in 2025 to coincide with Disneyland’s 70th anniversary.
  9. During the holiday season holiday songs and the essence of the holidays become part of the attraction.
  10. Every quarter hour the clock on the faćade rings out with a procession of children walking around the clock. Walt Disney said the clock “performs the time.”
  11. The exterior if the attraction is transformed at the holiday time. 
  12. The exterior is also used as a screen for projections at various times during the day and night for guests to enjoy more of the Disney magic.
  13.  In 2014 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the attraction Disney released several singing dolls from the ride. They sang the iconic song in their native language and also in English. The dolls won the FAMILY CHOICE AWARD in 2014. To hear her sing click here Small World doll singing .
  14. The ride depicts the children of the world, however in 2009 some Disney/Pixar characters joined in the fun. Look carefully as you sail through the world and you may spot: Peter Pan and Tinker Bell (Peter Pan) in Great Britain, Alice and the White Rabbit (Alice in Wonderland) in Great Britain, Cinderella, Gus, and Jaq (Cinderella) in France, Pinocchio and Jiminy Cricket (Pinocchio) in Italy, Aladdin, Jasmine, Abu, and the Magic Carpet (Aladdin) in the Middle East, Mulan and Mushu (Mulan) in China, Simba, Pumbaa, and Timon (The Lion King) in Africa, Ariel, Flounder, Andrina, and Attina (The Little Mermaid), Lilo and Stitch (Lilo and Stitch) and Nemo and Dory (Finding Nemo) in the South Pacific Islands, Donald Duck, Panchito, and José (The Three Caballeros) in South America, and Woody, Bullseye, and Jesse (Toy Story) in the U.S.A. And joining them this year in Mexico are Miguel and Dante (Coco).

it’s a small world has touched the hearts of generations of guests to the parks, and the song has stayed with them long after they left! But hey, it’s a beautiful thought combined with  fun medley and an enjoyable boat ride. When you think about it, it’s a small world after all.

And, as they say, it’s the happiest cruise that ever sailed. 

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About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 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, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.

Images and video: Francine Brokaw

Bring home ‘Captain America: Brave New World’

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


Captain America: Brave New World is now available on Digital and will be available on Blu-ray, DVD, and 4K Ultra HD beginning May 13, 2025. 

The story has Sam Wilson (Anthony Mackie) wielding the famous shield of Campaign America. Sam finds himself smack dab in the middle of an international incident and must discover the reason behind this global plot before it destroys the peace.  Harrison Ford is newly elected U.S. President Thaddeus Ross and Danny Ramirez is Joaquin Torres, Captain America’s sidekick.

Bonus Features

Besides this well-received movie, there are plenty of bonus features.

In the featurette “Assuming the Mantle,” producer Kevin Feigh claims, “It’s the decisions you make early on in the process that’s going to inspire everything that comes after it.” He added that casting Mackie was one of those great decisions and the actor has added greatly to the franchise.

Sam Wilson was passed the shield by Steve Rogers (Chris Evens) in the previous film Avengers: Endgame in 2019. This featurette is a deep dive into both the character, his role in the whole story, the actor, and even his costume.  His wit, charm, and heart are his superpowers that bring him into the world of superheroes.

Another featurette, “Old Scores, New Scars” looks at how the writers put Sam through the paces. And, according the the filmmakers, “The biggest unanswered Easter egg in the Marvel comics goes back to the Incredible Hulk.” So, Sam isn’t super strong or has other great powers however he is super smart. Being Super Smart is a Superpower that is new but commendable to viewers.

Also included are some cute “oopsie” moments in the blooper reel, and four deleted scenes. Actually, watching these very short scenes they really could have been included in the final version however for some reason they were cut. 

This movie was nominated and came in 4th place in the category of “Most Anticipated Movie of 2025”. So for fans of the franchise who cannot wait another month, they are now able to purchase the digital version with the bonus features. On May 13 everyone can purchase physical copies of the film in various forms. 

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 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, is the entertainment correspondent for Good Day Orange County, and has her own TV show, Beyond the Red Carpet, on Village Television in Orange County. She is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.

Images supplied courtesy Disney

Manta Sleep Mask SOUND – Product Review

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

 

The Manta Sleep Mask is a comfortable mask that doesn’t press on eyes. Now the Manta Sleep Mask SOUND adds more for those who want to add sounds to their experience. It’s still the same no-pressure eye mask that the regular mask has and still has the  comfortable removable/adjustable eye cups, but there is more.

By including razor thin Bluetooth headphones and easy to press buttons for on/off volume up/down, this is a great way to listen to your personal music or audio book while still enjoying the peace of blackout from light and without bothering anyone else.

The rechargeable battery lasts approximately 20 hours so you can experience your audio for quite a while before having to recharge it with the USB/USBC cord that comes with the package. Also included in the package is a convenient strap and a mesh carrying case. 

The eye cups are easy to position so you get the best comfort without irritating your eyes. And the speakers are easily adjustable too. Simply slide the blue tabs to where your ears can pick up the sound. With a three inch area in which to slide/adjust the speakers, this will fit almost every head. 

Pairing the mask with your smartphone or tablet is easy however the mask must be within 3 feet of the device to successfully pair it. And the user is not limited to one device. Pairing to a different device is just as easy.  Instructions in the package explain everything so don’t worry that this is a difficult device to use.

This is a great product for anyone who loves to go to sleep while listening to music and who doesn’t want to disturb anyone else. It is also a good little unit to wear in the car – AS A PASSANGER – to listen to an audio book or music while traveling.

While Manta offers a white noise machine to drown out noise while you are trying to sleep or rest, this Sound Mask is different. It allows the user to personally listen to any sound files on their devices. The only thing it cannot do is to pair it with a smart TV to be able to listen to a show while the mask is on. 

With comfort, adjustability, and convenience, this Manta Sleep Mask SOUND is a nice little device that also makes a great mother’s or father’s day gift, or a graduation gift. Actually, it is a great gift for anyone including yourself.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw has been covering products, travel, and all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 35 years. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites.

All photos: Francine Brokaw
Note: This unit was sent to me for an honest review with no expectations.