Author: Francine Brokaw

‘Love in Taipei’ is now streaming on Paramount+

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


Set in the Taiwanese capital of Taipei, Love in Taipei is the story of 18-year old Ever Wong (Ashley Liao). The film is based on the best-selling book Loveboat, Taipei, by Abigail Hing Wen.

Ever’s parents had moved from Taiwan to Ohio to raise their daughter. Now, before going to college, Ever is sent back to spend the summer in Taipei. Her parents enrolled her in a cultural immersion program where the students learn calligraphy, cooking, Mandarin, and everything Taiwanese. Little did she know that this experience would be life-changing.

A somewhat shy girl, Ever is immediately taken aback when she arrives in Taipei. It turns out the program is supplemented (without official approval) as a party program where everyone lets loose after class, sneaks out, and parties like there is no tomorrow. It takes a bit for Ever to join in, but once she does she finds life in Taipei a fun, invigorating, and joyous city. “Loveboat” is the word used to describe the program.

Ever is caught between two worlds. Her parents expect her to go to medical school, but her passion is dancing. Her American side is yearning to follow her heart but her Taiwanese side just wants to please her parents.

She is also caught between two men. Having been a “fan” of Rick Woo (Ross Butler), a wonder boy – or boy wonder, she is delighted he is part of the program. But Xavier Yeh (Nico Hiraga), another participant, also catches her eye.

Ever’s roommate Sophie Ha (Chelsea Zhang) is a fun loving gal and the impetus for Ever’s coming out of her shell. And while in Taipei, Ever catches up with her aunt Shu (Cindy Cheung), and artist who also encourages Ever to follow her heart.

The movie was filmed on location in Taipei with the beautiful city adding plenty of flavor to the story. It is a cute story about connecting to family culture and finding the courage to be oneself. The cast is entirely Asian with the one exception of Ever’s Ohio girlfriend who is only seen via FaceTime.
Besides the students being immersed in the culture, viewers also get plenty of the vibrant culture and appreciation. The one part that might be concerning is the fact that Ever often walks through the city alone at night, giving the impression that Taipei is completely safe, and indeed it has been touted as a fairly safe city, although still not 100 per cent safe. From the viewer’s standpoint, it looks to be a fun, exciting, and colorful city. And yes, there is an actual summer immersion program in Taipei known as “Loveboat.”

Love in Taipei is now streaming on Paramount+. It is rated PG-14.

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.

‘Calming a Panic’ album for stressful times

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


There’s no doubt that we are living in stressful times. Kids can be affected by the stress of their parents and just everyday life. The new album (CD or digital files) by Nicole Porter helps to alleviate panic and stress with upbeat and fun music as well as inspirational messages. Calming a Panic is meant for kids, but it is also a great stress reliever for adults.

With upbeat music combining pop, rock, classical and jazz, with a bit of show tunes mixed in, the songs are all fun and helpful in tough situations. Sometime little things feel unmanageable and frightening for kids (and adults). While parents try to reassure their kids and help them feel happy in whatever situation is troubling them, having an additional tool is helpful. These songs are just the tools for bringing some light into a dark situation or help uplift a worried child.

All of the songs are filled with enthusiasm and messages of confidence. It’s a great way to bring some sunshine into a dreary or sad day. The songs are fun and even the titles are cute:

  • Shake Shake
  • Rhythm
  • Earth Candy
  • Abacabama
  • Let Your Soul Shine
  • Find My Way
  • Do the Vowel Howl
  • Tiger in a Hammock
  • Stay Wild Moon Child

Music has a special effect on people. I personally enjoy listening to upbeat music when cleaning the house or when I feel a bit down. Conversely, I often put on slow, calming music when I want to unwind. It’s common for people to use music as a mood elevator, and this collection of songs is just that. The songs bring positive messages and as the title of the collection says, they help calm a panic. 

Nicole Porter is a clinical director, artist, and art therapist specializing in early childhood acute assessment, trauma treatment, and family advocacy.

Calming a Panic will be available beginning September 15, 2023  and available now for pre-sale at Spotify and Amazon.

The songs will be available on all streaming services and the CD can also be purchased at Nicole Porter’s 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. Follow her on Twitter.

‘Warrior King’ is coming to theaters

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


This Chinese animated epic fantasy is based on the true story of King Gesar. born to a divine lineage and destined to become a great hero and ruler. As a young man, the future king grew up exiled in a realm overrun by menacing demons and monsters. When evil forces threaten his home, he embarks on a heroic journey to save his people and fulfill his destiny as a legendary leader.

The story of Gesar is considered one of Central Asia’s literary classics and was passed down in oral tradition for some 1,000 years, as well as literary, poetic and stage play versions. Its Tibetan iteration may now be the most prominent, It is certainly one of the longest, running to over 100 volumes and a million verses, according to some calculations.

The movie will be released in theaters August 25, 2023.

More fun with ‘Eva the Owlet’ on Apple TV+

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

Based on the New York Times bestselling Scholastic book series Owl Diaries by award-winning author Rebecca Elliott, Eva the Owlet has returned with four adorable shorts.

“Diary, Cheer Me Up, Up, Up!” follows little Eva who is upset about breaking a pinecone. To cheer herself up she goes on a fly with Baxter.

“All About Baby Mo,” has Eva telling her diary all about Baby Mo, who has scribbled all over the pages. This is infuriating to her but then, she does know there are some wonderful things about the little guy she dearly loves. 

“Diary Doodles” follows Eva has little Eva doodling during a rainy day. It’s a nice activity to do inside when the weather is wet and dreary outside.

“Diary, Cheer Lucy Up, Up, Up!”  has Eva helping her best friend Lucy write her own Cheer-Up List. Lucy is sad and upset because her stuffed animal got a hole in it. (note: I remember being very young and feeling the same way as Lucy when one of my animals got a hole. A needle and thread from my mom was the trick for me.)

Eva and her friends live in Treetopington. She is a fun, adventurous, and compassionate little owl. And to remember everything, she keeps track of her feelings and adventures in her diary.   

Since first being published, Owl Diaries now has eight foreign language translations and 11 million copies in print. 

Eva the Owlet is streaming now on Apple TV+.

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.

Look what’s coming to Cartoon Network this fall

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

“Cartoon Network presents the best in animation for all generations with iconic, creator-driven shows,” said Michael Ouweleen, president of Cartoon Network and Boomerang. “This fall is no exception as we premiere new seasons and series from the talented crews at Cartoon Network Studios, Warner Bros. Animation and Hanna-Barbera Studios Europe.”

 

New and returning animated shows to entertain kids will be flooding the airwaves this fall however viewers do not have to wait for the newest episodes of Bugs Bunny Builders. Featuring Bugs, Lola, Daffy, Tweety, and Porky Pig, Bugs Bunny Builders has just begun airing their newest episodes.

Fall premieres include new episodes of We Baby Bears, which will begin a new season on August 26, 2023. The storyline follows baby bear brothers (Grizz, Panda, and Ice Bear), lovable characters for all ages.

On September 11, 2023 preschoolers will be embarking on new adventures with Batman, Batgirl, and Robin on the animated series Batwheels. This high-octane adventure show is a fan favorite for youngsters and adults will enjoy the episode on September 15 that features the voice of Adam West, the Batman of the past.

Teen Titans Go! returns on September 23, 2023. Robin, Starfire, Raven, Beast Boy, and Cyborg are back for their eighth season and commemorate the Warner Bros. 100th Anniversary with a special episode. Fun for the whole family, the gang takes a visit to the Warner Bros. studio lot and encounter surprise guests.

And on November 11, 2023 the U.S. debut of The Heroic Quest of the Valiant Prince Ivanhoe will join the lineup of animated shows for kids. This is the story of a confident guy and his sidekick Bert as they experience magical and fun quests through kingdoms. Get ready for royal antics, fairy tale creatures, swashbuckling, and magic. This is another show that parents will enjoy watching with their youngsters.

Besides airing on Cartoon Network, the shows will be available on Max as well. This lineup of animated series’ are a great addition to viewing for young kids and preschoolers. They provide fun, adventure, and some laughs with characters that will be embraced by everyone.

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.

 

Bring home newest release of the classic ‘Roman Holiday’ on 4K

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

To celebrate the 70th anniversary of the classic film Roman Holiday, Paramount has released a new 4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray + Digital Code 2-disc set. This film stars Gregory Peck and introduces Audrey Hepburn in her first starring role.

Hepburn is Princess Ann who is on a royal tour of European cities. She is getting bored and tired of her position and longs to escape from the constraints and responsibilities with which she lives. Lo and behold, she does. Princess Ann sneaks out one evening in Rome and for the next 24 hours she finally gets the chance to discover what it is to live like a non-royal, free of the rigid life and able to do what she wants. 

Joe Bradley (Peck) discovers this young woman sleeping on a bench and tries to wake her up, but having been sedated while at the embassy, all she wants to do is sleep. Being the good man he is, he cannot let her stay alone on the bench so he takes her back to his apartment, where she spends the night – all above board. No hanky panky. 

The following day journalist Bradley learns that Princess Ann has been taken ill and cannot attend her functions. After seeing a photo of the young princess, Bradley realizes the woman who is sleeping in his apartment is Princess Ann. So, what is a journalist to do? He wants to get an exclusive on the princess so he enlists the help of his photographer friend Irving Radovich (Eddie Albert) and they devise a plan to unobtrusively take pictures of Ann (who is calling herself Anya) as the three embark on a fun-filled day in Rome. Ann, aka Anya, has no idea the two men are journalists.  

The first thing she does before anything else is cut her hair. This releases her psychologically from her royal life.

The trio manages to get themselves into quite some interesting situations, while Ann is enjoying everything and does not want to return to royal life. The three have some fun antics in the eternal city, including a far-fetched ride on a Vespa.

What Bradley doesn’t plan on are the feelings he and Ann begin to feel as their friendship blossoms. 

The ending is perhaps not what romantic viewers would have liked to see. It is fun to think of the next chapter in the lives of Princess Ann and Joe Bradley if there would have been a sequel. But viewers can make up their own minds about whether they will end up together somehow in the future or not. Either way, this makes for a classic story that stands the test of time. 

There are plenty of bonus features on the Blu-ray. Filmmaker and historian Leonard Maltin discusses the film, which was made entirely in Rome. There is another feature about the costumes and an interesting look at the history of Rome in the locations which were part of the movie. This was the first time Audrey Hepburn had a starring role and her career at Paramount is the subject of yet another bonus. After finishing Roman Holiday she went on to star in another classic film, Sabrina, with Humphrey Bogart and William Holden. Next came War and Peace followed by Funny Face. She is also known for Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Charade, My Fair Lady, and many other classic movies. 

Another bonus feature delves into the story of the screenwriter Dalton Trumbo, who had many trials and tribulations as he was one of the “Hollywood Ten” who were blacklisted by the House Un-American Activities Committee.

The 4K Ultra HD disc is the clearest version of the film. This black and white movie is a delight however it would have been wonderful if it had been filmed in color. Yet, it holds up well in black and white on 4K.

Many scenes in Roman Holiday have been reenacted and referred to in other films, like the scene where they encounter the mouth of truth, and the fun Vespa drive. This is a movie that is a go-to when anyone is in the mood for a fun, sweet, and enjoyable story.

Roman Holiday is not rated. There are scenes of smoking and a cute non-brutal fight scene.

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.

photos courtesy Paramount Home Entertainment

‘Book Club: The Next Chapter’ – Movie Review

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

Diane Keaton, Candice Bergen, Jane Fonda, and Mary Steenburgen return for the next chapter of their amazing friendship that has spanned 50 years. Book Club was produced in 2018 when the four women took on the challenge of reading 50 Shades of Grey.  Besides their emotions about the book, their personal lives played out as the film progressed. Now Book Club: The Next Chapter takes the foursome on a new adventure – to Italy.

The story begins with their lives during the lockdown when they had to communicate via the Internet. Now that the lockdown is over they get the chance to finally meet again in person. And when they do, they are in for a surprise. 

Vivian (Fonda) announces she is finally getting married to her beau Arthur (Don Johnson). To celebrate, the foursome decide to go to Italy for a “bridal celebration.” Carol (Steenburgen) is a little apprehensive about leaving her husband Bruce (Craig T. Nelson) who recently suffered a heart attack. Sharon (Bergen) is concerned about leaving her dog. And Diane (Keaton) worries about leaving her boyfriend Mitchell (Andy Garcia). But after being convinced, they all agree to head to Italy and finally take the trip they had planned decades before. 

What a trip they have! They find themselves in one precarious situation after another, but their loyalty and fun spirit prevails. It doesn’t matter that their luggage was stolen or that they spend a night in jail. What matters is their love and devotion to each other. After 50 years, this is a friendship that has stood the test of time and trauma, and continues to do so. This is something that many of us would love to have – an enduring friendship with very close pals with which we can share all the aspects of our lives without judgement, just tough love.

This girls’ trip is also a time when the growth in their personal lives proves to add to the fun of the story. Carol meets an old friend (Vincent Riotta) with whom she shares an entertaining evening. Sharon meets an interesting intellectual (Hugh Quarshie) with whom she shares a little more than just entertainment. The Police Chief (Giancarlo Giannini) seems to pop up wherever the foursome is, and in some very fun situations. But when it is revealed that Vivian has been set up by Arthur to have their nuptials in Italy, her emotions unwind. This is a woman late in life who has never been married. Although she loves Arthur, does she really want to be a “wife”?

Perhaps the most lovable of all the men in the show is Mitchell. Garcia plays him with a tender heart and a sense of love and gratitude to have Diane in his life. 

The first film in this franchise was cute however, even though I am not a big fan of sequels overtaking the original film, I have to say this second film is much better. There are so many laugh-out-loud moments woven into the story of friendship and love. 

As of this writing there is no confirmation they will reunite for Book Club 3. Fingers crossed they do as these women and their stories are like fine wine – they get better and better.

Book Club: The Next Chapter streams exclusively on Peacock. It is rated PG-13 for some strong language and suggestive material. (A dog dies off screen, there are kissing scenes, and implied sexual activities.)

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 Place Hotel at Disneyland Resort has some new cool updates

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


The Paradise Pier hotel at the Disneyland Resort has been undergoing a complete renovation. It has updated everything, including the pool areas, to reflect the Pixar movies and characters. This is a colorful place in which to enjoy the water and the fun of Pixar. Here are some images of the new water play areas including Crush’s Surfin’ Slide at the Pixar Pool, and some fun at Nemo’s Cave. These areas are now open the guests however the entire hotel will be completed sometime this fall, 2023.

Splish splash with Nemo and his friends at the Pixar Place Hotel. (images are courtesy Richard Harbaugh/Disneyland Resort).

‘The Slumber Party’ streams on Disney+

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

Based on the novel The Sleepover by Jen Malone, The Slumber Party brings drama, comedy, and mayhem to a group of girls in the space of one day. It’s a cute story especially for young teens. It’s touted as “a long weird story,” and that just about says it all. But add in a lot of hijinks and some cute characters.

Anna Maria (Valentina Herrera) is turning 14. To celebrate her birthday and the fact that she and her group of besties are now high schoolers, she throws a slumber party. Invited are her friends Megan (Darby Camp) and Paige (Emmy Liu-Wang), and her soon-to-be step sister Veronica (Alex Cooper Cohen). Veronica is a no-nonsense gal who is up for anything, but Megan is a bit skittish. She hates trying new things but learns that sometimes it’s good to step out of your comfort zone.

The hypnotist hired to entertain the girls, Mesmer (Titus Burgess), performs his magic and the next day the girls wake up without any knowledge of what happened the night before. The house is a mess, things are not right, and to top it off, Anna Maria is missing. What exactly happened after they were all hypnotized?

They have to get to the bottom of the mystery, but first they need to locate Anna Maria. This proves to be more difficult than anticipated. They end up in several strange situations, and some of the things they put themselves through are crazy. But it’s all done to find their friend.

So, take a little Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, High School Musical, American Pie, The Breakfast Club, and a dash of Vacation (where everything goes wrong), and mash them all together. This is the story of friendship that lasts forever. These girls have shared so much in their lives and now with the addition of Veronica, they have an even greater experience shared during these 24 hours.

This is a fun show for young teens and makes a great family viewing experience. At the heart of it is friendship. 

The Slumber Party premiered on Disney Channel and can be streamed on Disney+. Grab some popcorn, snuggle with your cozy blanket, and enjoy this whacky slumber party with the gang. And by the way, in the end they do get their memories back and learn all that they did the night before. That’s a story in itself. 

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.

‘The Little Mermaid’ 2023 now on digital and coming to Home Entertainment

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

In 1989 when Disney released the animated classic The Little Mermaid, audiences around the world were enchanted by the young mermaid who desperately wanted to be human. Little Ariel captured the hearts of viewers. As the youngest daughter of King Triton, her life had been spent under the sea, but her inquisitiveness and curiosity kept her searching for something more. She was enthralled by the people living on the land, and when she rescued Prince Eric from a shipwreck, she immediately fell in love. Now the story has been reimagined in live-action, well, as much live action as can be created when half of the movie takes place under water or with sea critters.

The vision of filmmaker Rob Marshall, this version of The Little Mermaid is a bit different, with additional songs and some adjustment in the characters. Lin Manuel Miranda added the extra songs and lyrics, and Scuttle, who in the animated film was a seagull, is now a different kind of bird that looks similar to the animated bird however this Scuttle is able to dive under water. That was intentional so he could be introduced to the viewers under the sea.

Yes, the main songs are still alive and well in this version, however there are some subtle differences in the scenes. The underwater scenery is magnificent and the filmmakers did a wonderful job bringing the underwater world to the viewers.

As a nod to the original movie, Jodi Benson who voiced the animated Ariel, appears in a brief cameo. This time around Halle Bailey is the brave mermaid who risks everything to be with the man she loves. 

Being a little dark, smaller kids might be more intimidated by the scary scenes than with the animated movie. The downfall of this film is the length. At 2 hours 15 minutes, it poses a problem for kids who might get a little fidgety sitting for that long time. That is the benefit of the Digital version (available now) when parents can pause the show for a break or even split it into two nights of viewing. And the 4K, Blu-ray, and DVD editions will be available September 19, 2023.

Ariel is a princess of the sea, and with Eric she is a princess of the land as well. Their union brings harmony to the two worlds that have been at odds for a very long time. But now, all is well.

Note: I am not a personal fan of remaking classics and especially remaking animated classics into live-action. That said, this was not on my priority of films to watch. It is, however, an OK movie that is filled with the same emotions and family feelings that exist in the animated version. I still prefer the animated movie because, well, I don’t like messing with a classic.

The 1989 animated version is rated G. This live action version of The Little Mermaid is rated PG for action/peril and some scary images.

The Little Mermaid is now available on Digital and on 4K, Blu-ray and DVD September 19.

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.