Author: Francine Brokaw

“Encanto at the Hollywood Bowl’ now streaming on Disney+

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


Last November the Hollywood Bowl put on a special performance of the popular Disney animated film Encanto. This live performance was enjoyed by audiences of all ages, and now everyone can experience the magic of the Family Madrigal on Disney+.

With the original cast portraying on stage their animated characters, the story of Mirabel comes to life with music, colorful costumes, humor, a live orchestra, some clips from the movie, and plenty of projections around the bowl immersing the audience in the magic and wonder of Encanto. This story has resonated with families around the world, and even though the Madrigal family is Colombian, all families will see parts of themselves in these characters and their stories.

This was truly an immersive experience for those attending the production, however for viewers of Disney+ there is still the enjoyment of watching this extraordinary performance with all the flare expected from a Disney presentation.

The colors are amazing and because the performance was at night, the brightness of the costumes and the projections are vibrant and even electrifying. Color color everywhere. And let’s not forget about the wonderful music from the film, which is brought to the story via a live orchestra.

There are often clips from the film shown on the screen above the stage to help move the story along. And the characters often walk among the attendees. But don’t fear – all that magic is still there when watching via Disney+.

What adds to the streaming version is looking at the faces of the kids in the crowd. Watching their faces light up when the songs are sung, the dances are danced, and the story unfolds is like watching a child on Christmas morning. Their eyes are wide and they sing along with the cast. Even the adults are enchanted with the performance and sing along as well, but just watching the faces of the small children enjoying the show is priceless and heartwarming.

If you have yet to check out Encanto at the Hollywood Bowl, it’s time to return to the Madrigal family with all their love, magic, and heart.

 

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 25 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 Disney+

‘SuperKitties’ is great fun for kids

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

 

The new series SuperKitties is geared to ages 2-7 and adults will also enjoy watching along with their kids. Each episode includes two 11-minute stories. In the stories the four “super kitties” help solve problems in the town of Kittydale.

Ginny, Sparks, Buddy, and Bitsy are four adorable kitties who, when called upon to help others, turn into the SuperKitties. These superheroes are not only cute, they are helpful and always willing to help others.

When they get the “SuperKitty Call” they spring into action. Usually the problem they must solve is caused by Cat Burglar, Lab Rat, Zsa-Zsa, or Mr. Puppypaws. The kitties use their exceptional skills to help others. As kids watch these furry crime fighters, they learn about kindness, friendship, and empathy.

Their skills along with some special tools are part of what makes the show entertaining and enjoyable for kids. The four kitties are fun to watch and are Brave, Smart, Strong, and Kind. That is what they represent, along with their cuteness.

Bitsy, the smallest, has a special friend – a yarn animal named Mr. Greenie. Her relationship with Mr. Greenie is endearing, to say the least. These cute, cuddly crime fighters are always willing and able to help. Their teamwork as well as their abilities always right the wrongs.

This is a cute series that airs on Disney Junior, Disney Channel, and on the Disney Now app. The app has additional fun activities for kids. These interactive games add to the enjoyment of the foursome.

SuperKitties is rated TV-Y. In my watch group that previewed the series, both kids and adults enjoyed the antics and especially the four furry friends.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 25 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.

Print out the image below for some coloring fun for your kids.

‘The Menu’ is a dark yet intriguing story

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

 

The Menu is a twisted, dark, gruesome, yet at times interesting story of conceit and revenge. It’s touted as a “dark comedy” yet there is little in the way of comedy. It is definitely dark, however.

Ralph Fiennes stars as Chef Slowik who owns and runs a high-end restaurant on a secluded island. This film takes place in one night as several guests gather for a lavish meal. Included on the guest list are a rich and self-centered couple (Reed Birney and Judith Light), a movie star and his assistant (John Leguizamo and Aimee Carrero), a famous food critic and her friend (Janet McTeer and Paul Adelstein), a group of businessmen (Rob Yang, Arturo Castro, Mark St. Cyr), and a foodie with his friend (Nicholas Hoult and Anya Taylor-Joy). They all expect a fabulous meal but what they get is murder.

The island and restaurant are amazing. The setting is beautiful and the food presentation is magnificent. But there is something off about the night. Chef Slowik insists on referencing every course with a personal discussion about a story related to the course and what went into creating the food.

While everyone in the restaurant was invited for this special night, there is one last minute substitution. Margot (Taylor-Joy) was not invited and was brought by foodie Tyler who is over-the-moon at being able to eat in the establishment of his idol. Margot, on the other hand, is not excited about the food or the Chef. He is intrigued by her as Tyler’s date and does everything he can to learn more about this uninvited guest.

This black comedy (I would refer to as dark horror) has received good reviews by critics. While there are some interesting elements, the film is definitely a twisted look at life and revenge.

The Menu is now available digitally and will be available on Blu-ray on January 17, 2023. It is rated R for strong/disturbing violent content, language throughout and some sexual references. It’s not for kids or the squeamish.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 25 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. Follow her on Twitter.

Draft Top – Product Review

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

When I first learned about the Draft Top tool I thought this was made for me. I’m one of those people who inevitably spill when drinking from a can. I turn to a straw or a cup to avoid messes. Yes, I am a messy can drinker. But that problem has been solved!

I was sent a Draft Top to test and I can honestly say it lives up to the hype. It is a simple to use tool that easily removes the top of a can thus turning it into its own drinking vessel. Yep, you read correctly. After placing the tool correctly on the top of a can, with a minimal amount of pressure on the levers and a few simple twists, the top is seamlessly removed. And the opening of the can is smooth and easy to use as a cup in itself.

These days people are concerned with saving the planet by using less plastic. So the Draft Top eliminates the need for plastic straws. Plus, if you normally pour your drink into a throwaway plastic cup, that is eliminated as well.

I love flavored cola. When the top is removed there is plenty of room to squeeze a lemon to make lemon cola, or add chocolate syrup for a chocolate cola. (If you haven’t tried these, you’re missing some good drinks.) And once some of the liquid has been consumed, it is easy to add an ice cube or two to cool down the soda or whatever is in the can.

This handy tool can be used for soda cans, juice cans, and alcoholic beverage cans. It is safe to handle however keep little fingers away as the blade can be a source for trouble when it comes to kids and their curiosity.

Think about taking this tool to the beach and eliminating the need to bring cups. Or if you’re having a party this also makes things easier for guests.

 

By turning the cans with the flip top into a rimless can, it is therefore turned into a vessel that is easy to drink from and doesn’t require additional tools  – like straws or cups.

These make great hostess gifts as well as unique thank-you gifts. At $24.99 you just might want to get a couple for yourself.

So, the bottom line is this is a tool that I will be using often and one I will be giving as gifts. I think when they designed this they were thinking of all of us who end up spilling when drinking from a can, whether it is from the opening or the liquid that has gathered in the groove. You know what I mean.

Before using the Draft Top I suggest washing the can first, just as you should when drinking from a flip top. It’s just common sense for cleanliness.

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, books, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists,  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. Follow her on Twitter.

‘Strange World’ is Disney’s newest adventure

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


Disney’s newest epic adventure, Strange World, has several interesting aspects. The visuals are beautiful and the characters are endearing. When it comes down to it, the basis of this film is family.

Although the film is filled with woke characteristics, the story revolves around family, specifically the Clades. Their village of Avalonia is in trouble. Surrounded by mountains, Jaeger Clade decides to venture out to get to the other side of the mountain range to find a solution to their troubles. Adventure is in his blood and he takes his son Searcher on this expedition to save Avalonia. But along the way, before they can get to the other side of the mountains, Searcher discovers a solution. He finds a plant that is filled with energy, something Avalonia desperately needs.

Jaeger is a stubborn man and insists on his goal of getting to the other side of the mountains, something no one has ever achieved. So he travels on while Searcher and the remaining members of the expedition return to Avalonia with their miracle plant.

Fast forward many years and Avalonia is thriving – until it stops. Another expedition is mounted to find the reason the plant named Pando is dying. If they can return it to its glory, Avalonia will continue to thrive.

The film takes off with this new expedition where the adventurers encounter several strange beings, including one gelatinous blob which Ethan Clade, Searcher’s son, names Splat. Along for the adventure is their three-legged dog Legend.

There are some interesting vehicles designed for this film. The color palette lends itself to the storyline. The movie itself is colorful and the end result is interesting.

The film might remind viewers of the 1966 movie Fantastic Voyage. It shares many of the same aspects but is done in a flamboyant and animated way.

Strange World is now available on Digital and will be released on 4K, Blu-ray and DVD February 14. There are several bonus features, including how anatomy was carefully studied to create realistic aspects of the story, a look at the three generations of Clade men, and many Easter Eggs. There are some deleted scenes and a cute look into the recording boot at some of the flubs. While animators at the Disney studio usually go to locations to recreate them in their films, this group of animators went to scientists to help them recreate anatomy.

With the inclusion of a mixed race couple and a gay character, this movie has definitely added some aspects that have not previously appeared in Disney films. Jake Gyllenhaal voices Searcher, Dennis Quaid voices Jaeger, Jaboukie Young-White voices Ethan, Gabrielle Union supplies the voice of Searcher’s wife Meridian, and Lucy Liu is the voice of Callisto Mal, the president of Avalonia.

Strange World is rated PG by the MPAA for action/peril and some thematic elements.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 25 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.

‘Living’ – movie review

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


Bill Nighy stars in this dark yet hopeful story. Living is set in London in the early 1950s and focuses on Mr. Williams (Nighy), a supervisor in a county office where everyone dresses the same, conducts their business the same, and continues to live in a bland world where they push papers around and get little accomplished.

When Williams learns he has only a few months left to live, he takes stock in his existence. What has he really done that is worthwhile? What has he contributed to society? What, if anything, has made him truly happy?

Being an administrator he has done what his fellow civil servant administrators do. He passes the buck to another department. This is the way things have been done and what he continues to do, until he decides he must do something worthwhile before he dies.

The film is a remake of the Japanese film Ikiru (translation – “To Live”) about life and death. It’s a melancholy tale that drips of sarcasm and as the characters move slowly through their dreary days, viewers will see the conflicts arise in them.

When Williams changes course and begins to actually get something accomplished, he is an uplifting source of inspiration to his staff. But will they continue to follow his lead after he is gone or will they return to their boring and mostly useless jobs?

It is rare to see Williams smile as he goes through his life. Every once in awhile viewers see that he is not a zombie-like creature, but a man with feelings. That is rare. His ultimate demise changes the way in which he looks at the world, his life, and his job. And he does provide inspiration to his co-workers. Most notably is Miss Harris (Aimee Lou Wood), a former coworker who left the office to work at a restaurant. In her he confides his story and together they are able to justify his life.

This is not a film that will have wide appeal to the masses. It is dark and slow, however the acting is wonderful and the sets take viewers back to the 1950s.

Living is rated PG-13 for some suggestive material and smoking. It opens in theaters December 23, 2022.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 25 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.

Royal fashions are examined in two documentaries

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

With the Platinum Jubilee and the death of Queen Elizabeth II last year, there is a renewed interest in all things Royal. Diana, Princess of Wales, captivated America in the 1980s and 1990s, and now Catherine, Princess of Wales, has captured the hearts of Americans in much the same way as her late mother-in-law. Chic & Classic Princess Diana and Chic & Classic Kate Middleton are two documentaries streaming on True Royalty TV (which I highly recommend) as well as Apple TV and can be downloaded on iTunes.

These two documentaries focus on the evolution of the styles of the two women. They came from a different world than those who were brought up in the Royal palaces, yet they both managed to make their marks in different ways.

Diana, although riddled with scandals later in her marriage, won the hearts of people all around the world. And her designer dresses were iconic. Whether she was dancing with John Travolta in the White House or presenting herself in a spectacular “revenge dress” after her husband admitted to adultery (although she had also been an adulterer in her marriage), her style was chic and sophisticated. Even when she was in everyday attire taking her children to school or watching a polo match, she was impeccably dressed.

The same is true for Catherine. Her style has also evolved into a smart, sophisticated look that turns heads and makes headlines. Like her late mother-in-law, Catherine looks flawless when she steps out of the palace for a film premier or just to take her kids out to the park. Whatever she wears is picture-perfect. Jeans, a t-shirt, and a blazer are just as eye-catching on this woman as a beautiful long gown.

While both women would like to be known for their work, they are also fashion icons. The “Kate effect” has expanded the British fashion industry and whatever she wears is sold out in minutes. Her wedding dress is among the most spectacular and memorable of all royal wedding dresses. Of course, it also helps that her figure is tall and slim.

When the coronation of King Charles takes place later this year, it is sure the Royal fashions will also be on display. Although the focus will be on the King, fashion experts and fans around the world will be watching what members of his family will wear to the occasion.

Chic & Classic Princess Diana and Chic & Classic Kate Middleton are available to stream on True Royalty TV, as well as Apple TV.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 25 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.

Enjoy a date night at Disneyland in February and March 2023

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


Whether you’re a new couple or a long-married one, why not have a fun date night at the Disneyland? It’s something couples don’t always think of when planning a night together. With Disneyland After Dark you’re sure to have an evening to remember.

The obvious time for date night is Valentine’s Day, but you don’t have to celebrate the holiday on the actual day. Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite encompasses seven different nights designed for a unique experience. On the special nights guests will be treated to a special fireworks show. There will be special food and beverages for this event too.

 

Whether you want to stroll along the banks of the river or actually enjoy a relaxing cruise on the Mark Twain Riverboat, there are plenty of ways to experience a romantic night…in Disneyland. Mickey and Minnie, as well as other “Disney couples” will be on hand to join in the evening’s events. There will be photo opportunities highlighting romantic scenes from Disney classics, like Lady and the Tramp and The Little Mermaid.

The dates for the Sweethearts’ Nite are: January 31, February 2, 5, 7, 9, 14 (obviously), and 16. This special event begins at 6 p.m.

 

For the first time Disneyland presents Disneyland After Dark: Princess Nite on March 7 and 9. With the Disney princesses on hand as well as specially prepared foods for royalty, this promises to be a night fit for a queen. With a musical concert that celebrates the heroines and special backdrops for those memorable photos, Princess Nite is a time to celebrate the princess – or queen – in your life.

Disneyland After Dark: Princess Nite is another great opportunity for a unique and memorable “date night.” Admission for Princess Nite is 6 p.m.

 

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 25 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.  Follow her on Twitter.

‘Secret Headquarters’ now available on Blu-ray and Digital

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


Owen Wilson stars in Secret Headquarters, a super-hero story for the entire family. What happens when a regular guy is turned into an international super hero? No, he’s not Superman, Batman, or any of the other superheroes we know. He is “The Guard.”

Jack (Wilson) is just a regular fellow with a wife (Jessie Mueller) and their son Charlie (Walker Scobell). One night on a camping trip he discovers a UFO crashed. Air Force Captain Irons (Jesse Williams) leads him to the site where the two men are in awe. When the alien technology “choses” Jack to be the savior of humanity, the world changes.

Flash forward a number of years and “The Guard” is an international hero, saving thousands of people from harm. But in his new job Jack has neglected his family. Now divorced from Lily, he rarely sees Charlie due to his busy schedule. But Charlie has no idea that his father is the hero he idolizes. He thinks his dad is just some schlub that puts his work before his son.

One day, while Jack is away on a “job” Charlie and his friends Berger (Keith L. Williams), Lizzie (Abby James Witherspoon), and Maya (Momona Tamada) accidentally discover Jack’s secret via his underground headquarters. There they find all kinds of gadgets to make them strong, fly, disappear, etc. They are enthralled by this discovery and being the kids that they are, they decide to use the gadgets to help themselves, without realizing the consequences.

Unfortunately the “bad guys” discover their location and soon it’s up to the four kids, or as they prefer to be called, young adults, to save the power source that is alien technology and at the same time save themselves – and the world from utter destruction.

From Producer Jerry Bruckheimer who brought us National Treasure, Top Gun, and more, this movie is a lighthearted tale about a superhero that was never supposed to be one. Yet, Jack proved beyond a shadow of a doubt that the aliens chose the right man for the job.

The bonus features include a look at the kids who starred in the film, the making of the film, a gag reel, deleted scenes, and a look at The Guard from Owen Wilson. The movie streamed on Paramount+.

Secret Headquarters is rated PG for violence, action, language and some rude humor.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw has been covering all aspects of the entertainment industry for over 25 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.

Even more fun with the Elf on the Shelf

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

For years families have enjoyed the Elf on the Shelf book and Elf himself. This little fellow always managed to move to a different location during the night. When kids woke up they had the task of locating where in the world – or in the house – the little Elf rested. Year after year families would be entertained by the Elf on the Shelf, making it a tradition to look forward to every December. Now there are new and more ways to enjoy the happy little guys from the North Pole.

First came the Scout Elf with his or her storybook. Now there is a cute and cuddly Plushee Pal, in a girl or a boy. The face on this little plush Elf is adorable. If it doesn’t put a smile on your face then nothing will. He/she is so sweet and like the original Scout Elf, the Plushee Pal Elf can sit on shelves, tables, chairs, and because they are so soft, they make great sleeping pals. The Plushee Pals are somewhat larger than the Scout Elves, and easier for tiny hands to hold.

Not only are the Plushee Pals a new way to enjoy the fellows from up North, but there are now new ways to enjoy the Scout Elves as well. Yes, not only do the Scout Elves sit on shelves and magically change locations during the night (thanks moms and dads), but also they can now be dressed in various outfits for decorating or just playing with in a new way. There are several outfits for these elves so whether you have a boy or a girl, there is some cute attire that will add to their enjoyment.

For instance, by attaching plastic legs and dressing the Elf in an apron and hat, and securing the tray to his/her body, the Scout Elf now becomes a chef who holds a tray of cocoa and treats. With no small children in your house, you can use this adorable item to decorate your kitchen. The Elf adds a touch of whimsy to any kitchen while at the same time bringing some festivity to the house

 

And to add to these new clothing options for the Elf, are some cute Insta-Moment Pop-Up backgrounds so creating special settings for your Elf is also an option. And yes, there is more. The Elves now have Elf Pets. A reindeer, a fox, a St. Bernard are other ways to add to the Elf fun.

It never ends, and just using the Elf at holiday time is now a thing of the past. These little guys are now all-year items that bring the quaintness and enjoyment of the holiday tradition to the family the entire year. Your Elf can now enjoy the sun and sand of a beach weekend. Or he/she can spend time at a salon or camping out in the mountains.

With the various outfits and scenarios available for the Elf, he will be a beloved addition to any child’s toy chest. Imaginations will run rampant with the fun of these little fellows.

 

So now, it’s time to decide which Elf is right for your family: Plushee boy, Plushee girl, Scout boy, Scout girl, what color skin, what outfit(s) and Pop-Ups, which animal friend, etc. Choices, choices, choices. Why not choose several? This is truly a fun product (and something I personally highly recommend).

 

About the Reviewer

Francine Brokaw writes about products, books, travel, and entertainment. She has been published in national and international newspapers and magazines as well as Internet websites. She has written her own book, Beyond the Red Carpet The World of Entertainment Journalists, from Sourced Media Books, 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. Follow her on Twitter.