Author: Francine Brokaw

Original attractions at Disneyland that are still around today

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

It’s been 70 years since Disneyland opened. Walt Disney began his speech, “To all who come to this happy place: welcome. Disneyland is your land.”  

It has been dubbed “The Happiest Place on Earth” and for families that has been true for generations as young and old have happy memories of their time spent in the resort.

When it opened Disneyland was much different than the resort we know today. The parking lot is now known as Disney California Adventure! How’s that for a change?

While it has gone through countless changes there are still some original attractions that remain today. 

The attractions have been upgraded, spoofed up, and attended to through the years, but the bones are still the same as the day Walt Disney opened the park. 

Walt Disney was a train enthusiast and he insisted Disneyland included a railroad. The Disneyland Railroad still operates and loops around the park. Currently it stops at Main Street, U.S.A., New Orleans Square, Mickey’s Toontown, and Tomorrowland while also taking guests on a tour of the Grand Canyon and the Primeval World. 

Fantasyland

“Here is a world of imagination, hopes, and dreams. In this timeless land of enchantment, age of chivalric, magic, and make-believe are reborn, and fairy tales come true. Fantasyland is dedicated to the young and the young in heart, to those believe that when you wish upon a star, your dreams do come true.” Walt Disney

What would a theme park be without a carrousel? King Arthur Carrousel still excites guests young and old. It has been restored several times since 1955 yet remains as beautiful and enchanting as ever. The Carousel sits at the entrance to Fantasyland and is the first attraction guests encounter when they walk through Sleeping Beauty’s Castle. 

With Disney music accompanying the horses and animals as they ride around, this carousel reminds guests of the joy the park and the films have brought to young and old.

Peter Pan’s Flight is so popular there are always lines to enter. Guests fly through the air (slowly) in a pirate ship and encounter the story of Peter Pan, Wendy, and the whole gang with the streets of London at their feet. 

The pirate ships glide on a track giving riders the illusion of flying through the air like Peter and the others. This attraction is one of the most popular in the land.

Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride is another Fantasyland attraction that has stood the test of time. As guests travel through the story of The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad, they sit in an old-fashioned car just like the one Mr. Toad drives in the film 1949 animated film.

This is the quintessential ride through a story, which the original attractions were meant to be.

Snow White’s Scary Adventures takes guests through the story of the princess. This attraction is the only one in Fantasyland that is dedicated to a Disney princess, which is interesting as the princesses have become some of the most popular Disney characters. The ride has been re-themed with a more fantasy approach than a scary one, and it has been tamed down, items added, and renamed Snow White’s Enchanted Wish. 

The re-themed version is more in keeping with the joy and delight associated with the land and brings the love of the princess to the delight of fans. Fantasyland less fear and more fantasy, and that is just what guests get in the Snow White attraction.

Mad Tea Party is a spinning ride as guests twirl around in teacups. As many people have discovered, even though it is possible to keep the cups from spinning too fast this ride is not for everyone. If you can handle spinning, then this is a fun – and colorful – attraction. 

Guests have the ability to spin their cups fast or slow while they also twirl around on a table top. At night with the lights above this is a beautiful sight with the colorful teacups spinning under the twinkling lights.

The Storybook Land Canal Boats cruise is a leisurely boat ride on a canal that winds through miniature settings of some popular Disney films. The ride has been updated through the years as new films have come out bringing more opportunities for various recreations.

Since it first opened there have been so many new films and they have required their own space in Storybook Land. 

As mentioned above, Walt Disney enjoyed trains. Besides the Disneyland Railway, the Casey Jr. Circus Train is another train ride. This one takes passengers through more miniature representations of Disney films. Some of these can also be seen on the Storybook Land Canal Boats. This is actually a fun little train ride for the very young.

Tomorrowland

“A vista into a world of wondrous ideas, signifying man’s achievement, a step into the future with predictions of constructive things to come. Tomorrow offers new frontiers in science, adventure, and ideals — the atomic age, the challenge of outer space, and the hope for a peaceful and unified world.” Walt Disney

Autopia has had many car upgrades throughout the decades but remains a tribute to Walt Disney’s idea of giving youngsters the thrill of driving their own car. This is one car ride where traffic jams are not a problem. And drivers won’t get a speeding ticket, although the cars can only go a maximum of 6 miles per hour. Whew! 

Adventureland

“Here is adventure. Here is romance. Here is mystery.” Walt Disney

Adventureland is the home of the Jungle Cruise. While the boat ride remains the same as it was on opening day, what is happening on the shore has been tweaked over the years. The original ride was a bit more adventurous than the often-comic one we know today. Everyone remembers when they see “the back side of water.”

Frontierland 

“It is here that we experience the story of our country’s past — the color, romance, and drama of frontier America as it developed from wilderness trails to roads, riverboats and civilization; a tribute to the faith, courage, and ingenuity of our hearty pioneers who blazed the trails and made this progress possible.” Walt Disney


In Frontierland the Mark Twain Riverboat on the Rivers of America remains a nice way to unwind, relax, and enjoy a peaceful cruise. It’s tame and peaceful away from the hustle and bustle of the park. This is a delightful 14-minute ride aboard an old-time paddlewheel boat.

Disneyland is 70! What a legacy!

While these attractions have been upgraded and altered throughout the years, they are still the foundation of the park. They were opened by Walt Disney in July 1955 with the hope of entertaining and delighting all ages.

Disneyland has had many changes in the past 70 years and is still undergoing advancements. As Disney famously said, “Disneyland will never be completed, as long as there is imagination left in the world”. And oh boy, is there ever still imagination in the world. Stay tuned for some big changes but in the meantime these original attractions remain a throwback and tribute to Mr. Walt Disney.

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.

Photo use is approved by Disney

The Old Spaghetti Factory in Riverside, CA

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


Unlike several Old Spaghetti Factory restaurants, the one in Riverside, California is open for lunch as well as dinner. It is located near the historic Mission Inn, a fun destination spot for special occasions. The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is a unique place to stay when visiting the Riverside area.

The Old Spaghetti Factory is one of the popular locations for family celebrations. As most OSF restaurants are decorated somewhat the same, this one is no different. There is an old trolly in the center of the dining room with tables and booths around this trolly which is another place for seating, which especially delights kids.

The menu is consistent with the others in the chain, with their famous 3-course meal: Bread with soup or salad, entrée, spumoni or vanilla ice cream.

One of their side dishes is a healthy portion of broccoli covered with their special Mizithra cheese. This is a unique flavor, making the broccoli tasty even the pickiest kids will most likely enjoy eating their vegetables with the Mizithra.

The Meat Lovers Treat includes meatballs, sausage, and spaghetti in a rich meat sauce. This is one way of getting protein with your pasta!

Their spinach & cheese ravioli is covered in a savory marinara sauce. The pillows of pasta are filled with a spinach and cheese mixture for a delicious combination to delight taste buds.

There’s not much else to say about this restaurant because if you have been to one OSF you pretty much know what to expect. This is a fun location located in the heart of Riverside, California.

They offer a gluten-friendly menu, senior size entrées, a kid’s menu, and Murder Mystery Dinners (check with the restaurant for details).

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about travel, restaurants, products, and all aspects of entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites.

‘Mufasa: The Lion King” is now available on digital and also 4K, Blu-ray, and DVD

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

This “live action” prequel to the hit 2019 animated film The Lion King is filled with heart, spirit, and above all – family. Family is at the heart of this story. Mufasa: The Lion King tells the story of how Mufasa became the king of  Milele and how his family continues the Circle of Life.

Alert – sensitive viewers will most likely need to keep some tissues handy as there are many sentimental scenes and scenes of terror. Although this movie is filled with those scenes, it is an entertaining addition to the franchise.

The story begins with Simba’s daughter Kiara being looked after by Rafiki while Simba and Nala are away as she gives birth to a new cub. Left alone and wanting her parents, Rafiki distracts her with the story of her grandfather and how he came to Milele.

When Mufasa was a cub he was swept away by a great flood and washed far from his parents and home. He was rescued by cub from another tribe. Taka always wanted a brother but his father the king refused to acknowledge Mufasa as his son. So the queen cared for the little lost cub and brought him up to be strong and worthy. She also gave him courage to go out and look for his real family and follow the words of his mother.

Then a pride of outsiders, white lions who were outcasts from their own prides, attacked and the son of the king was killed. Soon Mufasa and Taka were sent away to start a new bloodline in Milele, with Taka being king. His father instructed him to fulfill his destiny and instructed Mufasa to take care of his son.

Along the way they meet Sarabi, a young lioness who, along with her protector Zazu, are wandering around after being separated from their pride. Mufasa takes them with him and Taka as they travel toward Milele. Joining them is a young Rafiki who is intent on finding Milele as well, as he is looking for his family too.

The story unfolds while Rafiki is telling this epic adventure to Kiera, Timon, and Pumba as they await the birth of Simba and Nala’s cub and their reunion with Kiera.

The visuals are beautiful in this “live action” story filled with heart, hope, and destiny. As Rafiki says, “The eye never forgets what the heart has seen.” 

Taka sees Mufasa as his brother. When he falls for Sarabi, he asks his brother for advice, which he gives him. Mufasa is supposed to look after Taka and does what he can for his “brother.” But when Sarabi shows more interest in Mufasa than Taka, Taka’s jealousy gets the better of him and he becomes a danger to them all.

As mentioned earlier, there are many scenes of terror and death. This is scary at times and emotional at other times. The ending is satisfying though.

Spoiler alert: They do make it to Milele, Sarabi and Mufasa get together, Taka’s betrayal is addressed and his name is changed to Scar due to the scar he received when he saw the error of his ways and saved Mufasa, and after the storytelling by Rafiki comes to an end, Kiera is reunited with her parents and introduced to her new baby brother.

The movie is filled with life-saving scenes, scenes of treachery, scenes of danger, and also scenes of love. Family is number one and the whole reason for making this movie.

Additional features include song selections, outtakes, a “making of” feature, and some fun Easter eggs which are called Ostrich eggs in this case.

Another brief bonus touches on the Lion Recovery Fund that helps protect lions in Africa.

There are several deleted scenes that were not completed and not included in the film however after watching them there are two that – in my opinion – should have been kept in: “What do you feel in there” includes Rafiki telling Mufasa “No matter how far you walk destiny will follow.” Another incomplete scene is about a dream Taka has about his father. 

The Lion King was a worldwide hit when it was produced in 2019 and there have been several films in this franchise. Mufasa: The Lion King brings everything together and full circle, filling in pieces of the whole story,  just like The Circle of LIfe. The movie is rated PG.

The movie is available on digital, DVD, Blu-ray, and 4K.

Fans of Mufasa, Simba, and the whole gang can also get the three-movie set that includes the original animated feature, the “live action” version and this new prequel.

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 © 2024 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

‘Return to Office’ streams on Hallmark Plus

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

With shades of You’ve Got Mail, Return to Office focuses on communication in today’s world.

Janel Parrish and Scott Michael Foster star in this story of office workers who have been working remotely from their homes but are now required to work in their brick and mortar office. The problem is, there is not enough space in the office so everyone shares their workspaces with scattered work dates.

Liv (Parish) is assigned Mondays and Wednesdays and Tom (Foster) is assigned Tuesdays and Thursdays. They get to work from home on Fridays. Liv is a neat-freak but Tom is more easy-going. Even though the staff has seen each other via Internet meetings throughout their time working remotely, no one knows who their desk partner is. So when Liv puts her plant on the desk and writes a note for her workspace partner asking if it is ok for her to leave it there, she has no idea what is to come.

Tom comes in the following day and decides to decorate a little for himself. He leaves a note for Ms. Monday as he calls her, acknowledging that he has left some of his items too. Liv is incensed with what is left on her desk and takes away everything, noting that her workspace partner went too far.

Well, they get things settled and are off to a great start in their “relationship” that consists of leaving each other cute notes each day. 

On her time off, Liv volunteers at a retirement community which happens to be where Tom’s mother resides. She wants to set Liv up with her son but Liv won’t allow it. Then one day she learns that Tom is the man who is her workspace partner and the man with whom she was to be set up.

Liv knows that Tom is the man with whom she is having the note relationship and when they all get together for business parties and to share ideas, Tom is unaware Liv is Ms. Monday. This could be awkward but the two are good together and get along very well. 

Tom is captivated by Ms. Monday and wants to meet her, unaware he already knows her.  Liv is a bit apprehensive about uncovering her true identity to him since they continue to have projects to work on in person. Could revealing herself change their relationship?

But, as in You’ve Got Mail, things unravel and identities are uncovered. And yes, they both are happy about finally having a real relationship in person rather than simply  note to note.

Although this is basically a redo of other stories, this is still a cute movie and a fun way to spend an afternoon.

Back to Office just started streaming 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.

 

‘A Honeymoon to Remember’ streams on UP Faith and Family

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

 

The 2021 romcom A Honeymoon to Remember is a new addition to UP Faith and Family. Rebecca Dalton stars in this story of love, loss, and renewal.

Ava (Dalton) is a type-A personality to put it mildly. She organizes everything, and I do mean everything. She planned her proposal to the minute. So when Brett (Edward Ruttle) popped the question, she had a videographer at the ready.

Ava never took Brett’s ideas into consideration and planned their perfect honeymoon at a beautiful resort. He thought they were going to go see the fall foliage, but her plans took over.

While trying on her wedding dress (which she ordered ages ago even before she was proposed to), Brett barges in and calls off the wedding. She is too much for him.

What’s a person to do when she has two nonrefundable tickets to a beautiful resort? Her sister Bonnie (Jocelyn Gauthier) talks her into going on her honeymoon sans fiancé. Instead, Bonnie will be her companion.

Bonnie has not been on a date since her husband died a few years ago. She has basically sequestered herself so this is a big deal – for both of them.

While Ava is stewing over her loss of Brett, Bonnie meets a man who is sympathetic to her and enjoys her company. John (Brendan Taylor) is a nice guy and even comforts Ava when she continually talks about her breakup.

Then Kyle (Spencer Lord), who works at the resort, befriends Ava and even though she bends his ear about Brett, he thinks she is worth pursuing. Thus, the two sisters have male companions with whom to enjoy the fun at the resort.

Everything is going along fine until Brett shows up. He intends on winning Ava back and tells Kyle he is in for a challenge. 

So, while Bonnie and John are enjoying their relationship, Ava is conflicted. Should she continue seeing Kyle or is her past with Brett too much to ignore? 

A Honeymoon to Remember now streams on UP Faith and Family.

Personal note: Neither Brett nor Kyle are great catches. But there is something to be said for persistence.

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.

Karen Kingsbury’s ‘Someone Like You’ comes to GAF

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

 

From the popular novel Someone Like You by bestselling author Karen Kingsbury come the beautiful movie about love and life. Keep some tissues nearby when you watch this.

Sarah Fisher is London Quinn, a fun-loving and fearless young woman living in Birmingham, Alabama. She works in her mother’s coffee shop, loves everyone, adores her dog and her best friend Dawson Gage (Jake Allyn) who is desperately in love with her. 

When London is killed in an accident, Dawson is as devastated as her parents Louise and Larry (Lynne Collins and Scott Reeves). In their grief  they discloses to Dawson that London was an IVF baby. When they went to have the embryo implanted they discovered there were two so they took one and instructed the clinic to offer the second embryo to another infertile couple. 

The possibility that London has a sibling strikes at Dawson’t heart. He sets out to find this person, not knowing if it is a boy or girl. Tracking down the doctors and clinic is difficult, then tracking down the family that had the received the embryo is almost impossible but that doesn’t stop Dawson.

He locates Andi Allen (also played by Sarah Fisher) who lives with her parents Jenny and Jim (Robyn Lively and Bart Johnson) and sister Amy (Mary Marguerite Hall) in Nashville. When Dawson confronts Andi and informs her about the circumstances surrounding her birth, she is in disbelief. Her parents never told her.

In shock and not knowing what is what, Andi decides to go to Birmingham to meet her biological parents. Dawson is on hand to help her get to know who her sister was and the things and places she liked.

Everyone in Birmingham is stunned at the resemblance Andi has to London. After all, they are twins. As Andi gets acquainted with her birth parents, Dawson is right there to guide her through London’s life.

Andi is surprised when she learns Louise is very sick and in need of a kidney, which London was going to give. The accident came just before the surgery was to happen. Andi decides she wants to save Louise’s life and offers to donate one of her kidneys, if she is a match.

The confusion in Andi’s mind and heart sets her on a path to discover who she is. This is a heartfelt story of family, life and love. 

Viewers might see the attraction growing between Dawson and Andi and wonder if he simply transferred his feeling for London to her twin sister. But he tells her in the beginning when he looked into her eyes he saw London, but that changed and now he sees Andi. 

While there are deep emotional moments and the situation is itself emotional, threads of Christianity weave through the story. London was not a true believer in Church and religion but Dawson is, and so is Andi. 

Andi must find it in her heart to forgive her parents for not telling her about her birth. She also has to come to terms with two sets of parents, although Louise assures her the family  she knew is still her family and Jenny and Jim are still her parents. Maybe not genetically, but they did raise her and Jenny did carry her for nine months.

This is definitely an emotional and touching movie that is available to stream on Great American Family beginning February 22, 2025. To say it they packed a lot into this story is an understatement. It is a beautiful tapestry of happiness, sadness, life, family, and love.

For information about book clubs and bible studies, go to the Someone Like You website.


 

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.

 

Photo courtesy Great American Media

‘Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy’ streams on Peacock

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


Peacock continues the Bridget Jones franchise with a new original film.  Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy now streams on Peacock with Renée Zellweger returning as Bridget, Hugh Grant returns as Daniel Cleaver, and Colin Firth makes an appearance as his character of Mark Darcy.

Bridget first burst onto the scene in the 2001 movie Bridget Jones’s Diary. Audiences were enchanted by the way she kept her diary of life, food, weight, and love. Her life continued to entertain viewers in 2004 with Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason when she struggles with her relationship with Mark Darcy. Then in 2016 in Bridget Jones’s Baby, she discovers she is pregnant but is unsure of the father. Bridget and Darcy end up getting married.

So now, in this fourth film, Bridget must confront a whole new aspect of life – widowhood and being a single mother. Dating, work, children, it all adds up to confusion, frustration, and entertainment.

This made-for-Peacock movie is now available to stream at your convenience. Bridget Jones fans have their next story about this quirky yet at times lovable character.

The movie is rated R.

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 courtesy Peacock

Season of the Force returns to Disneyland for 2025

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

Star Wars fans will be delighted to know Season of the Force is returning to Disneyland from March 28 through May 11, 2025. That’s a lot of storm troopers and wookie fun.

Along with all the characters guests will be able to indulge in new food and yes, new merchandise to commemorate their visit to Batuu and their love of all things Star Wars. But even more than that, there is an all-new nightly projection show titled “Shadows of Memory: A Skywalker Saga.” This visual and audio spectacular takes guests on an adventure across the galaxy. Imagine standing in the park and watching the galactic history and memorable Star Wars music come to life on the spires of Batuu.

The usual characters make appearances in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, but this year guests might just catch a glimpse of some others, including perhaps Luke Skywalker himself? Keep your eyes open.


In addition to the new projection show, “Fire of the Rising Moons” is another nighttime spectacular complete with fireworks and definitely memorable music. John Williams’ film scores are part of music and movie history and the music instantly brings back memories of the films for fans who have known the Star Wars saga from the beginning and continue to enjoy the stories from galaxies far, far away.

As in the past, Space Mountain in Tomorrowland will become Hyperspace Mountain, and Star Tours – The Adventures Continue also adds additional elements for this event.

Merchandise

New items this year include Star Wars plush for the “Create Your Own Headbands.” Now guests can add Yoda, R2-D2, Darth Vader, s stormtrooper and an Ewok to their headbands.

There are also a plethora of additional merchandise items to commemorate the event, not least of which are T-shirts and sports jerseys. For a limited time guests can build their own Lightsabers from items not previously offered. (Advanced reservations are encouraged.)

The Droid Depot is always a popular locale for finding a special item, and during the event it is sure to be a “must do” for many guests.

Food and Drink

Can you say “delicious”? The Pi-Co Punch sounds amazing. It’s new this year and is a non-alcoholic concoction of coconut milk, pineapple juice, and lime juice. It’s available at the Galactic Grill in Tomorrowland. This new beverage will definitely quench your thirst.

And to add to the drink, why not get the Darth Vader Premium Mug , also available at the Galactic Grill.

Another fun item is the Droid Parts Premium Vessel which comes with buttered popcorn with Crait Red Salt. It’ available at Kat Saka’s Kettle in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Star Wars Nite

The after-hours Disneyland After Dark: Star Wars Nite is a fun party for true Star Wars fans. Additional tickets/reservations are required for these select nights from April 8 through May 6, 2025. Tickets can be punched now on the Disneyland website.

As always, check with the Disneyland app or website for show times and events. And also as always, many items are “while supplies last.”

Enjoy this returning special event, and May the Force be With You!

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry and travel for over 30 years. 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 courtesy Disneyland Resort

‘Renovation Aloha’ returns for season two

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

Hawaii is a beautiful place but there are some eyesores among the neighborhoods. Tristyn and Kamohai Kalama make their living renovating homes in this tropical paradise.

If you thought Hawaii was all gorgeous homes overlooking the Pacific Ocean, think again. This show takes viewers to locations vacationers rarely see. 

The couple returns to HGTV for their second season documenting their renovations. Like so many home renovation shows their final products are gorgeous, but getting there is what takes talent. And to do this in this setting makes it more enjoyable for viewers as they get to see some neighborhoods on the island of Oahu.

The first episode this season is in Pearl City. The couple purchases an abandoned – and quite dilapidated – home from a man who grew up there but hasn’t been back in years. This home has potential but at first sight it is more than an eyesore; it is a monstrosity. 

What this home needs is a lot of tender loving care and the talent of the Kalamas to make it into a home someone can love. And that’s just what they do.

The couple is fun to watch as they set about clearing out the junk – and there is a lot of junk – and determining what should be done to make this house beautiful and livable again. It is a large order, but these two are used to working hard to turn ugly homes into island beauties and resell them for a profit.

This HGTV series takes viewers to beautiful Hawaii and with the help and foresight of the Kalamas shows them how they create alluring homes that charm potential buyers and amaze the original owners. 

Seeing the house as it was when they purchased it and then seeing the finished home is amazing. 

Check out the new season of Renovation Aloha beginning February 18, 2025 on HGTV. 

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 credit: HGTV

‘Goldie’ is Apple TV+ newest series for kids

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

Goldie is a little girl with a big heart – literally. This new series consists of 13 half-hour episodes, each focusing on the fun and relationships in the little town of Boysenberg.

When the stork was delivering baby Goldie to her family the little baby fell out and landed in a tree in the town of Boysenberry. Goldie was discovered and taken in by a little bird named Romeo who looked after her and cared for her. Goldie is a giant and as she grew even though she is a giant size little girl, she is still a little girl, with all the feelings that all little girls have.

Goldie’s best friend is an African American little girl named Teeny. Adding to the group is wheelchair-bound little Petey.

In the beginning Goldie is treated by most people in the town as a monster. They don’t realize she is just a little girl who happens to be a giant. As they get to know her and see how kind and helpful she is, they come around.
Goldie is a sweet little girl and has feelings that make her laugh and cry. She is also a good friend and will do anything to make her friends happy.

The series is inspired by the award-winning 2019 animated short by Emily Brundige who also wrote and produced this new series. It is a sweet little show focusing on a memorable character who just happens to be a giant.

It’s also a little sad in that Goldie is not with her giant parents, but it is heartening to see that she has a good life and friends in Boysenberg. She is just a little girl but her size as well as her personality give her a big heart.

Kids and families will fall in love with Goldie. She’s sweetie – and really cute!
Goldie premieres February 14, 2025 on Apple TV+.

Apple TV+ offers a variety of great programming for kids as well as adults. Their shows for kids include Wonder Pets in the City, Camp Snoopy, Doug Unplugs, Duck & Goose, Frog and Toad, and many more great programming for kids. And now Goldie joins the list of shows parents can feel good about letting their kids watch.

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 are courtesy Apple TV+