‘Which Brings Me to You’ is about attractions and relationships

Posted on January 15, 2024December 19, 2023 by Francine Brokaw

Based on the novel Which Brings Me to You: A Novel of Confessions by Steve Almond and Julianna Baggot, this movie is about two very flawed people who bond over their past issues with relationships. Lucy Hale and Nat Wolf star as Jane and Will.

The film takes place in one day. Well, kind of. The timeline of the story is basically over one 24-hour period however through storytelling both characters reenact their past relationships as viewers see them through the years. Jane and Will meet at a wedding and from there their rather unusual friendship takes off.

Both Jane and Will are flawed characters. They have issues with relationships and Jane says she always falls for damaged men, however she is also damaged. Will has commitment issues. Their messy pasts come to light as they both share all of their former encounters. As they do, the stories are seen on screen and in an interesting way. As they are imparting their stories to each other, and audiences see them play out, often times Will or Jane appears in the past story as an onlooker and often to interject comments.

To say they have each had whacky connections is an understatement. And to say they are both damaged is also putting it lightly. While they have been searching for meaning in their pasts, they have managed to create situations in which they simply cannot last. Will has had some interesting female acquaintances and Jane has been on a roller coaster when it comes to the men in her past.

The entire film is the two talking to each other in the present while thoroughly laying out their former situations. They are bold and honest with each other, and considering they only just met, that is strange. But as their pasts unfold, there is a bond that builds between them.

Can unburdening themselves and completely opening up about their flawed pasts be a bridge that connects them to each other in the present? Think about discussing in all honesty your past relationships with someone you just met. It’s quirky to say the least. But it is also a little endearing. Being completely honest with someone new is not usual, but for these two it just might be what they need to find something that is not flawed. Perhaps this is the way to cast away the damaged past and start a fresh path toward the future.

Which Brings Me to You is not rated however it is not for kids. If it were rated it would most likely get an “R” for sexuality. The film opens in theaters January 19, 2024.

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. Follow her on Twitter.

‘World of Color – One’ is back to light up the sky in Disney California Adventure (Plus a limited pre-show)

Posted on January 5, 2024August 12, 2025 by Francine Brokaw

Paradise Bay is once again dazzling night guests at Disney California Adventure with the stunning array of lights, lasers, fountains, and a heartfelt story of how one drop can turn into a wave and how we can all help each other to change the world. With memorable characters and inspirational music, this nighttime spectacular also includes fogs and flames to bring a magical, musical, and memorable show to the park. World of Color – One returns January 19, 2024.

To commemorate Lunar New Year, from January 23- February 18, 2024 the show will be preceded buy a special show Hurry Home – A Lunar New Year Celebration. This adorable and heartwarming show is the story of a little lantern trying to reunite with family for the celebration of good luck and fortune. This show is scored by Academy Award-winning composer Tan Dun.

Lunar New Year celebrations at Disneyland Resort run from January 23- February 18, 2024. It’s a celebration of Chinese Korean, and Vietnamese cultures and is always a highlight at the park.

Click on the link to see a preview of World of Color – One

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. Follow her on Twitter.

Pixar Fest returns to Disneyland Resort in 2024

Posted on January 3, 2024August 12, 2025 by Francine Brokaw

(Artist Concept/Disneyland Resort)

A rendering of the new sculpture coming to Disneyland Park for Pixar Fest, April 26-Aug. 4 shows plenty of Pixar pals.

Woody, Buzz, Turning Red Panda and Mei Lee, Dori, Wall-e, Russell, Dug, and more on this brightly colored sculpture will grace the beginning of Main Street, U.S.A for the Pixar Fest celebration from April 26-August 4, 2024.

The “Together Forever – A Pixar Nighttime Spectacular” at Disneyland Park will include Turning Red, among other Pixar favorites.

Over in Disney California Adventure, the brand new daytime parade “Better Together: A Pixar Pals Celebration!” will be a fun way for guests to see some of their favorite characters. Plus, look out for meet and greets with Ember and Wade.

This rendering of the sculpture looks like it will be a great place for photo options and brighten up Main Street with its festive characters and plants. Of course, we’ll have to wait until April to see the real thing, but it’s definitely coming to this year’s Pixar Fest.

The 15-story Pixar Place Hotel (formerly Paradise Pier Hotel) officially opens January 30, 2024, making this another fun place to hang your hat – or your ears – while visiting Disneyland Resort. With a new dining room, Pixar-themed guest rooms, and fun areas for kids and families, this is just one more addition to the growing Pixar-themed locations throughout Disneyland.

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Garfield is coming to the BIG screen

Posted on December 19, 2023 by Francine Brokaw

The Garfield Movie will hit theaters May 24, 2024.
Mark your calendars!

What a cute kitten. Just wait until he grows into a big cat!

Garfield (voiced by Chris Pratt), the world-famous, Monday-hating, lasagna-loving indoor cat, is about to have a wild outdoor adventure! After an unexpected reunion with his long-lost father – scruffy street cat Vic (voiced by Samuel L. Jackson) – Garfield and his canine friend Odie are forced from their perfectly pampered life into joining Vic in a hilarious, high-stakes heist.

‘Wish’ has a rocky start

Posted on December 15, 2023December 19, 2023 by Francine Brokaw

The latest Disney animated film, Wish, had a lot to live up to. First, it is their holiday release, which usually is a high performer at the box office. Second, it tried to encapsulate the Disney legacy in one film. And third, it was meant to bring the history of the company to this little story that is a celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Disney company. That’s a lot. Audiences did not flock to theaters when it opened, perhaps because they are tired of the Disney “woke” agenda. The thing about the story is this – it takes a couple viewings to really be appreciated.

The story centers around Asha (voiced by Ariana DeBose), a girl with high moral standards and a desire to do good. She lives in the island city of Rosas which is ruled by a seemingly nice king and an equally caring queen. The king takes everyone’s wishes and reviews them. His goal is to keep the peace, but the people of Rosas do not know that he has no intention of granting the wishes.

Asha applies to be his assistant and discovers what has happened to all the wishes. They are stowed away never to be granted. She is heartbroken and dearly wants to help the people of Rosas realize their wishes. But how can one young girl do this? Asha looks up at the stars and makes her own wish. Well, that starts everything going in a different direction.

A little star comes down from the sky and begins helping Asha. This little fellow is adorable and his magic spreads across the land. Animals discover they can talk, and in accordance with the Disney films of the past, Asha has an animal companion. Her pet goat Valentino is her best friend. And, then, lo and behold, thanks to Star, he can now talk. Valentino (voiced by Alan Tudyk) goes about helping Asha in her quest to free all the wishes held by King Magnifico (voiced by Chris Pine) and return them to their owners. This will give everyone in Rosas the chance to realize their dreams and wishes.

Getting to the wishes is one task, but then freeing them and, with Star’s help, returning them to their owners, is another task. All the while, Magnifico has a bounty on Asha’s head. But this young girl is not stopping for anything. She is determined to set things right.

Okay, so now you know the plot. The characters are not as endearing as in many of the other Disney films, yet Valentino and Star steal the show. There are several hints at past Disney films throughout the movie.

A really great aspect of this film is when the credits are rolling at the end. As the credits roll a number of past Disney characters appear, which is a fun element. Plus, when all the credits are over, there is one last scene that will touch the hearts of Disney fans.

Think of all the stars in Disney films. The second star to the right leads Peter Pan to Neverland. Lilo wishes on a falling star. And Jiminy Cricket sings about wishing on a star to Pinocchio. There are so many stars throughout the Disney list of animated features, but this little Star in this film is different. He is an actual character, and a cute one as well.

While this is not the best Disney film, and certainly many critics and audiences decided it does not live up to the pre-release hype, it deserves a second viewing. If you keep your expectations in check, you might see a bit of the old Disney charm and magic in Wish.

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Several James Cameron films now on 4K

Posted on December 13, 2023 by Francine Brokaw

Fans of James Cameron are a little happier now. For the first time three of his memorable films are available on 4K Ultra HD: The Abyss, Aliens, and True Lies. And yes, there is a difference with the HD versions. Everything is brighter and clearer. Also, there are new collector’s editions of Avatar and Avatar: The Way of Water.

The Abyss includes some new bonus features on the disc and digital:

New Documentaries:
● Deep Dive: A Conversation with James Cameron – An exclusive new sit-down
with James Cameron as he revisits the origin of the project and addresses some
of the myths behind the production.

● The Legacy of The Abyss– Discover the lasting legacy of THE ABYSS with
stories from James Cameron and the crew about how and why the film continues
to have an impact on filmmaking today.

Additional bonus features:

● Under Pressure: Making The Abyss – The original documentary about the
infamous production of The Abyss, with candid commentary by the actors and
crew.

● Deepcore Timelapse – Watch this production timelapse of the Deepcore set
being created.

● Videomatics Montage – Watch a montage of behind-the-scenes production
videomatics.

● Montana Bridge Flooding – See behind-the-scenes footage of the Montana
bridge flooding.

Bonus features on Aliens 4K disc and digital:

James Cameron Introduction – A message from writer/director James Cameron
introducing the Special Edition version of the film.

2003 Audio Commentary by James Cameron and the Cast and Crew-Special
Edition – 1990 Special Edition Commentary by James Cameron and the cast and crew.

The Inspiration and Design of ALIENS – For the 30th anniversary, writer/director
James Cameron reveals new insight into his own inspiration and the design elements for Aliens.

2003 Audio Commentary by James Cameron and the Cast and Crew – 1986
Theatrical Version Commentary by James Cameron and the cast and crew.
Isolated Scores

● Final Theatrical Isolated Score – This isolated track presents, as accurately as
possible, James Horner’s music score in its final form following extensive
reworking during the post-production process.

● Composer’s Original Isolated Score – Although there are a few instances
where the length of individual sequences was changed slightly after the music
was recorded, this isolated score track presents, as accurately as possible,
James Horner’s original intentions.

Bonus features on the True Lies discs/digital:

New Documentary- Fear Is Not an Option: A Look Back at True Lies – Unveil the explosive behind-the-scenes secrets of True Lies with the cast and crew as they share untold tales of daring stunts, cutting-edge technology, and the comedic genius that brought this spy-thriller to life.

Script, Artwork, Marketing – Dive into the production secrets of True Lies with these exclusive behind-the-scenes documents and more.

Avatar and Avatar: The Way of Water also have bonus features.

The Abyss, Aliens and True Lies will be available in 4K Ultra UHD for the first time ever on December 12 at digital retailers and on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray disc March 12, 2024. Avatar and Avatar: The Way of Water Collector’s Editions will also be available at digital retailers December 12 and on Blu-ray December 19.

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‘Fast Charlie’ is intense

Posted on December 4, 2023December 19, 2023 by Francine Brokaw

Based on the novel Gun Monkeys by Victor Gischler, Fast Charlie is an intense and often gruesome film taking viewers into the underworld of New Orleans. Pierce Brosnan stars in this action-fueled film. This was also the last film with James Caan before his death.

Charlie Swift (Brosnan) is what is known as a “fixer.” If there is someone to be snuffed out or a problem to be dealt with, he’s the guy to call. His boss, Stan Mullen (Caan) is old, ill, and suffering with dementia. But Charlie is loyal to the core. So when another mobster, Beggar Mercado (Gbenga Akinnagbe), wants to take over Stan’s area, well, let’s just say that Charlie is not on board with that.

Charlie tasks himself with protecting his boss and saving his reputation and to do this he must take down Mercado’s organization.

On his latest “job” his victim lost his head, literally. But that doesn’t phase the victim’s ex-wife Marcie (Morena Baccarin) who is a taxidermist and not affected by gruesome scenes. Charlie and Marcie form a cute friendship and he enlists her help to take down Mercado.

The film is violent, bloody, and definitely not for minors. It is for adults only, due to the language and violence. Fans of Brosnan will see him in a different light, with a Southern accent but still easy-going even when the going gets tough. It’s interesting to note that this actor ages like a fine wine. He’s still the dapper, adorable man his fans have enjoyed watching for decades, even when he plays this tough hit-man with a heart of gold.

The fun quips between Charlie and Marcie and their pairing is the saving grace of the story. As mentioned earlier, this is a tough-as-nails story but with some heart – at times. Let’s just say when he’s not whacking off people, Charlie is a nice guy.

Fast Charlie is not rated however it is for adults only. It opens in theaters and available On Demand December 8, 2023.

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‘The Art of Wish’ brings the animated film to readers with insights and images

Posted on November 28, 2023 by Francine Brokaw

The highly anticipated Disney animated feature Wish is now in theaters. Whether you have seen the film yet or not, The Art of Wish is a good addition to your Disney film library and “Art of” book collection. This latest publication from Chronicle books takes readers inside the story and behind the scenes with those involved in the film.

This is the 100th anniversary of the Disney Studios and those at the studio wanted to celebrate and pay tribute to the last 100 years. They did so with this film and to prepare themselves they watched every animated feature film created from Disney, beginning with the first full-length animated feature Snow White all the way up to Moana. Their goal in making this movie was to pay tribute to the legacy, as writer, executive producer and chief creative officer Jennifer Lee states in the Preface of the book.

The book delves into the beginning of the process of creating the film. The story was just one element. The characters, atmosphere, and background of the land of Rosas is examined throughout the pages of this beautiful book. And even for those who do not want to read about all the intricacies involved in creating the film, the images tell the story in their own right.

From simple and original drawings through the digital art, this book, and indeed the film, are not only a tribute to the legacy of Walt Disney, but also a love story in itself. Walt Disney was a dreamer and a wisher, and those aspects come out in the story through the characters and the newest Disney hero Asha. And, true to the history of Disney films, she has a cute companion – a pet goat named Valentino who supplies plenty of fun antics. He’s cute and cuddly, but can be a little bit of a nuisance. Read how he was imagined and how the animators settled on how he is dressed. Associate Production Designer Griselda Sastrawinata-Lemay said, “Valentino’s costume is inspired by Lisa Keane’s private collection of pajamas for goats.” (p 140) Keane was a co-production designer and is an animal expert at the studio.

The songs in the film also add to the story and they are examined in this book. The movie brings out aspects of all the past Disney animated films and that is evident when looking through the pages. Star, another creative character, often imitates the facial expressions of Mickey Mouse himself.

There is a four-page fold-out looking at the Hamlet in which Asha lives as well as her cottage itself. Plus, there are images of the new land of Rosas and the castle where the king and queen live. After all, Disney is famous for their castles and palaces, and this one is quite beautiful, even if a villain resides there.

The villains in the Disney films are also shown and the book looks at the various characters in the past films that added to the look and feel of this movie. Also, there are plenty of critters and different foliage that pay tribute to the other films. All of these are shown in the book.

As Lee writes, “There’s a moment when the film starts telling you what it wants to be.” (p. 84) The evolution of the movie, from beginning to end, comes to light throughout the pages of the book.

Besides the story, characters, and background, the filmmakers delve into aspects of animation like color-blocking, among others. This is a great lesson for anyone interested in how animated films are made.

The entire environment of the film is discussed and shown very clearly throughout all the pages. This is truly a book that will be opened many times just to see all the wonderful artwork or to learn about the making of the film.

The Art of Wish is a must-have for those collecting the “Art of” series of books. It is also a great gift for fans of the film. All you have to do is to look at the beautiful cover art to see what’s in store when you open the book.

Publisher : Chronicle Books (October 24, 2023)
Hardcover : 200 pages
ISBN-10 : 1797222198
ISBN-13 : 978-1797222196

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 30 years. She also writes about books, 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. Follow her on Twitter.

Win ‘The Canterville Ghost’ and some goodies to go along with this new animated film

Posted on November 27, 2023December 3, 2023 by Francine Brokaw

After 300 years of haunting his mansion, Canterville Chase, Sir Simon de Canterville (voiced by Stephen Fry) encounters the American Otis family, which is not deterred by his presence. This is a fun family film.

‘Tis the season! It’s a time for celebrating with family, friends, and loved ones while embracing traditions that include shared storytelling and watching unconventional holiday mysteries. Families are invited to join Virginia Otis and the Otis family on a thrilling adventure at a late 1880s English countryside estate in the new animated feature THE CANTERVILLE GHOST. On December 5, 2023, Shout! Studios and Shout! Kids will release THE CANTERVILLE GHOST on Digital, available for purchase and/or rent across all major entertainment platforms in the U.S. and Canada.

We have some goodies to give away. Lucky winners will receive

A digital code to watch the film on Apple
A plaid fleece throw blanket to cozy up while watching
10 paper popcorn buckets so everyone can enjoy a snack while enjoying the film

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

The deadline for this giveaway is December 1, 2023.

Bearizona in Arizona is fun for the entire family

Posted on November 26, 2023August 12, 2025 by Francine Brokaw

Located in Williams, Arizona, Bearizona is a unique wildlife park. Guests can drive through areas where animals reside and walk through a zoo-like region filled with all kinds of animals. It’s fun to see them all up close and personal.

Driving

During the driving section of the park guests are warned to keep their windows closed when going through the areas where bears and wolves reside. Signs enforce this as they want to keep everyone – human and animal – safe. Even while driving with closed windows, the experience is awe inspiring when the bears are alert and walking around. And the wolves are also amazing to see as they maneuver their way through the grass and around the trees. Keeping a very slow pace with your car, you will be able to spot many animals in these areas, whether they are close to the road, walking on the roadway, or napping far away.

Click on the links below to see some of our driving adventures in the park

driving with more bears

The park is expanding, making room for even more animals, and in the meantime there are so many great and often-majestic animals to view as you slowly drive through the area. American Bison, Bighorn Sheep, American Burro, various species of deer, Rock Mountain Goat, White Bison (so beautiful), and even Reindeer have their areas in which they wander freely.

Walking

The walking area includes some of the same animals you have seen in the “wild” driving section, as well as many others. American Badger, Beaver, Bobcat, Grizzly Bear, Turkey, Jaguar, Javelina, Miniature Donkey, Porcupine, River Otter, Raccoon, Prairie Dog, Rocky Mountain Elk, Red Fox, and Farm Animals are there to watch. They is a Northern Leopard Frog but after three visits to the park we have yet to see it. It is small and hides in his fairly large habitat area. There is a petting zoo with restricted hours so check with the park if that is what your family wants to experience.

Signs introduce the animals to the public, telling their names and often how long they have resided there.

Every time I visit this place I find another animal I fall in love with. The trio of Arctic Wolf is fun to watch. They play with each other and often look like they are playing “tag.” So darn cute. Click on this link to watch them playing.

wolves playing

Kids seem to be especially drawn to the water animals, watching the Badger and Otter swim in their private ponds.

There is a little cave that houses a Burmese Python for those who enjoy looking at snakes. I don’t. I prefer the cute furry critters, but to each his/her own.

Activities

Several times a day they put on a live show with various species of birds, birds of prey, and other animals. It’s fun to see and enjoyable for the whole family to sit and learn about the critters.

Yes, they do have a store in which plenty of fun merchandise can be purchased. There is also an interesting restaurant that looks like you are in a cave with plenty of animal drawings all around. Each area of the restaurant has a different feeling, but they all transport guests to a rural area in keeping with the theme of the park.

Bearizona is a fun family-friendly place to visit. It is located on the historic Route 66 in Northern Arizona, not far from the Grand Canyon.

For more information about Bearizona Wildlife Park, visit their website.

Author’s note: We have been there several times and always come away happy to have been with the animals. Nature is amazing and the folks at Bearizona do their best to keep all the animals safe and even rescue those in need. For instance they recently rescued three bear cubs whose mother had died. They are now thriving and it looks like they are enjoying their new lives in the large area set aside for them.

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