Author: Francine Brokaw

Bring home Elvis and the beauty of ‘Blue Hawaii’

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

For the first time, the classic Elvis movie Blue Hawaii is available on 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray. Since the movie was made in 1961, there was a lot of restoration needed to make it as beautiful as it was originally experienced when it premiered in movie theaters. The opening sequence was completely rebuilt to bring it up to the standards we require today.

Blue Hawaii is a typical Elvis musical. It has a fun story with plenty of songs, not lease of which is his it song “Can’t Help Falling in Love”, the song which he usually ended his concerts. Elvis filmed three movies in Hawaii: Blue Hawaii(1961), Girls, Girls, Girls (1962), and Paradise Hawaiian Style (1966).

In this movie Elvis plays returning GI Chad Gates who has grown up on the island with his parents who run a successful pineapple plantation. Instead of going to work in the family business, Chad decides to become a tour guide for his girlfriend’s travel agency. After all, he knows the islands like the back of his hand.

 

The group Chad is responsible for is comprised of teenage girls and their chaperone. Anyone who knows anything about teenage girls knows their hormones are raging, and that is the case with one young girl in particular who ends up causing a lot of problems for Chad.

 

Chad’s parents (Angela Lansbury and Roland Winters) are not pleased with his choices in jobs or girlfriends. Maile (Joan Blackman) is not the kind of girl they would prefer their son to marry. But love wins out.

 

The film is peppered with fun and memorable songs: “Almost Always True” is when Chad sings to Maile about his life as a GI, “Slicin’ Sand” takes place when the group is frolicking on the beach, “Ito Eats” is a cute song Chad sings about his island buddy, “ Rock-a-Hula Baby,” “Moonlight Swim,” “ Hawaiian Sunset,” “Island of Love,” “Beach Boy Blues,” “Aloha oe,” “Hawaiian Wedding Song,” and the title song “Blue Hawaii” are included in this fun film that not only captures the joy of island life but also is a nostalgic look at the island in the early 1960s. Anyone who has visited the state in the past 40 years knows it has grown and changed dramatically from the sleepy paradise into a thriving tourist destination.

Of the three Hawaiian movies Elvis filmed in the state, many consider this first one the best of the three. It is a little more intricate than Paradise, Hawaiian Style, however they both reveal the beauty of the islands with plenty of memorable Elvis tunes.

Blue Hawaii is now available in stunning 4K Ultra HD, which is like watching a travel show about the island, with a cute story and plenty of music thrown in.

The bonus features include commentary and a filming scrapbook. Blue Hawaii is rated PG for mild sensuality.

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.

Complete list of Children’s and Family Emmy nominations

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

Here is the complete list of nominations for the first Children’s and Family Emmys

OUTSTANDING PRESCHOOL SERIES

Helpsters        Apple TV+

The Not-Too-Late Show with Elmo: Game Edition       HBO Max

Sesame Street   HBO Max

Tab Time  YouTube Originals

Waffles + Mochi      Netflix

OUTSTANDING CHILDREN’S OR FAMILY VIEWING SERIES

The Astronauts  –   Nickelodeon
The Baby-Sitters Club  –  Netflix

Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock  – Apple TV+

Raising Dion   – Netflix

Secrets of Sulphur Springs  -Disney Channel

 

OUTSTANDING YOUNG TEEN SERIES

Doogie Kamealoha, M.D.  –   Disney+

First Day   –  Hulu

Heartstopper –  Netflix

High School Musical: The Musical – The Series -Disney Channel

The Mysterious Benedict Society   – Disney+

 

OUTSTANDING FICTION SPECIAL

Better Nate Than Ever  –  Disney+

Muppets Haunted Mansion -Disney+

 

See Us Coming Together: A Sesame Street Special  – HBO Max

Sneakerella  – Disney+

Spin  – Disney Channel

Waffles + Mochi’s Holiday Feast  -Netflix

 

OUTSTANDING NON-FICTION PROGRAM

Hi I’m Sevy  – Magnolia Network

Kids Baking Championship –  Food Network

Nick News   – Nickelodeon

Sesame Street in Communities: Talking About Race  – YouTube

Who Are You, Charlie Brown? –  Apple TV+

OUTSTANDING PRESCHOOL ANIMATED SERIES

Ada Twist, Scientist  –  Netflix

Molly of Denali  -PBS

Octonauts: Above & Beyond  – Netflix

Santiago of the Seas  –  Nickelodeon

Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum  – PBS

 

OUTSTANDING ANIMATED SERIES

City of Ghosts  – Netflix

The Cuphead Show!  –  Netflix

The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder  – Disney+

Star Trek: Prodigy  –  Paramount+

A Tale Dark & Grimm –  Netflix

OUTSTANDING SPECIAL CLASS ANIMATED PROGRAM

El Deafo  –  Apple TV+

Hilda and the Mountain King -Netflix

Hotel Transylvania: Transformania -Amazon Prime Video

Maya and the Three – Netflix

Trollhunters: Rise of the Titans  -Netflix

OUTSTANDING SHORT FORM PROGRAM

Ciao Alberto –  Disney+

Little Bird – Vimeo

Rhymes through Times –  Noggin

Sesame Street in Communities – Explaining Race | #ComingTogether   – YouTube

We the People  – Netflix

OUTSTANDING INTERACTIVE MEDIA

Cat Burglar   –  Netflix

In Space with Markiplier  – YouTube Originals

Madrid Noir  – Oculus TV

Namoo  –  Baobab Studios

Paper Birds  –  Oculus TV

OUTSTANDING PROMOTIONAL ANNOUNCEMENT

CHOOSE KINDNESS Campaign  -ABC

Dragons: The Nine Realms   – Hulu and Peacock

Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous  -Netflix

Maya and the Three –  Netflix

My Squishy Little Dumplings  -Nickelodeon

PBS KIDS: “You Taught Me” Brand Campaign – PBS

OUTSTANDING LEAD PERFORMANCE IN A PRESCHOOL, CHILDREN’S OR YOUNG TEEN PROGRAM

Kit Connor as Nick Nelson Heartstopper – Netflix

Loretta Devine as M’Dear Family Reunion  – Netflix

Mark Feuerstein as Watson Brewer The Baby-Sitters Club – Netflix

Joe Locke as Charlie Spring Heartstopper – Netflix

Alicia Silverstone as Elizabeth Thomas-Brewer The Baby-Sitters Club – Netflix

Rueby Wood as Nate Better Nate Than Ever- Disney+

OUTSTANDING SUPPORTING PERFORMANCE IN A PRESCHOOL, CHILDREN’S OR YOUNG TEEN PROGRAM

Adeel Akhtar as Aditya Singh Sweet Tooth –   Netflix

Nonso Anozie as Tommy Jepperd Sweet Tooth -Netflix

Yasmin Finney as Elle Argent Heartstopper – Netflix

William Gao as Tao Xu Heartstopper  -Netflix

Lisa Kudrow as Aunt Heidi Better Nate Than Ever – Disney+

 

OUTSTANDING YOUNGER PERFORMER IN A PRESCHOOL, CHILDREN’S OR YOUNG TEEN PROGRAM

Malia Baker as Mary Anne Spier The Baby-Sitters Club – Netflix

Quinn Copeland as Izzy Punky Brewster  – Peacock

Sammi Haney as Esperanza Raising Dion – Netflix

Momona Tamada as Claudia Kishi The Baby-Sitters Club – Netflix

Ja’Siah Young as Dion Warren Raising Dion  -Netflix

 

OUTSTANDING GUEST PERFORMANCE IN PRESCHOOL, CHILDREN’S OR YOUNG TEEN PROGRAM

Olivia Colman as Sarah Nelson Heartstopper  -Netflix

Chris Diamontopoulos as Owen Quinn Ghostwriter -Apple TV+

Sharon Lawrence as Susan Punky Brewster – Peacock

Randall Park as Dr. Choi Doogie Kamealoha, M.D.-Disney+

Gina Rodriguez as Grown-Up Elena Diary of a Future President  – Disney+

OUTSTANDING VOICE PERFORMANCE IN A PRESCHOOL ANIMATED PROGRAM

David Errigo Jr. as Dudley Ridley Jones  – Netflix

Eden Espinosa as The Queen of Hearts Alice’s Wonderland Bakery  –  Disney Junior

Michael Luwoye as Wavey Jones Baby Shark’s Big Show! – Nickelodeon

Daniel Ross as Donald Duck –   Disney Junior

Mickey and Minnie Wish Upon a Christmas

Sherri Shepherd as Queen Fastine Blaze and the Monster Machines  – Nickelodeon

OUTSTANDING VOICE PERFORMANCE IN AN ANIMATED PROGRAM

Eric Bauza as Bugs Bunny, Marvin the Martian, Daffy Duck, Tweety  –                 HBO/HBO Max
Looney Tunes Cartoons

Grey Delisle as Lola, Lana, Lily, Meryl, Cheryl, Scoots, Mopes & Mrs. Bernardo  – Nickelodeon

The Loud House

Mark Hamill as Skeletor Masters of the Universe: Revelation  – Netflix

Tom Kenny as SpongeBob SquarePants SpongeBob SquarePants  –  Nickelodeon

Frank Welker as Himself, Fred and Scooby Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? –  Cartoon Network

 

OUTSTANDING YOUNGER VOICE PERFORMER IN AN ANIMATED OR PRESCHOOL ANIMATED PROGRAM

Asher Bishop as Lincoln Loud The Loud House  – Nickelodeon

Tucker Chandler as Alex Madagascar: A Little Wild  –  Hulu and Peacock

Kyrie McAlpin as Emma Doug Unplugs   – Apple TV+

Amir O’Neil as Marty Madagascar: A Little Wild  – Hulu and Peacock

Andy Walken as Young Durpleton Centaurworld – Netflix

OUTSTANDING HOST

Tabitha Brown – YouTube Originals
Tab Time

Recker Eans, Dylan Gilmer, Mykal-Michelle Harris, Olivia Perez – Peacock

The Kids Tonight Show

Dame Helen Mirren  –  Cartoon Network I TBS

Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament of Houses

Jack McBrayer-Apple TV+

Hello, Jack! The Kindness Show

Coyote Peterson  –  YouTube Originals

Coyote Peterson’s Wild Field Trip

 

OUTSTANDING WRITING FOR A LIVE ACTION PRESCHOOL OR CHILDREN’S PROGRAM

The Baby-Sitters Club – Netflix

See Us Coming Together: A Sesame Street Special   –  HBO Max

Sesame Street –   HBO Max

Waffles + Mochi  –   Netflix

Who Are You, Charlie Brown?  – Apple TV+

OUTSTANDING WRITING FOR A YOUNG TEEN PROGRAM

Better Nate Than Ever -Disney+

Doogie Kamealoha, M.D.  –  –  Disney+

Heartstopper   –   Netflix

The Mysterious Benedict Society  -Disney+

Sweet Tooth – Netflix

OUTSTANDING WRITING FOR A PRESCHOOL ANIMATED PROGRAM

Ada Twist, Scientist  –   Netflix

Alma’s Way   –   PBS

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood -PBS

Molly of Denali   –   PBS

Muppet Babies    –  Disney Junior

 

OUTSTANDING WRITING FOR AN ANIMATED PROGRAM

 

Amphibia   –  Disney Channel

City of Ghosts  – Netflix

Dug Days  –  Disney+

Karma’s World  –   Netflix

Maya and the Three –    Netflix

OUTSTANDING DIRECTING FOR A SINGLE CAMERA PROGRAM

 

The Baby-Sitters Club – Netflix

The Mysterious Benedict Society   – Disney+

Sneakerella  – Disney+

Spin   – Disney Channel

Sweet Tooth –   Netflix

Who Are You, Charlie Brown?  –   Apple TV+

OUTSTANDING DIRECTING FOR A MULTIPLE CAMERA PROGRAM

 

Raven’s Home   –   Disney+

The Quest  –  Disney+

Sesame Street  – HBO Max

Top Chef Family Style   – Peacock

Zero Chill  –  Netflix

OUTSTANDING DIRECTING FOR A PRESCHOOL ANIMATED PROGRAM

 

Ada Twist, Scientist  –  Netflix

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood  -PBS

Go! Go! Cory Carson   – Netflix

Muppet Babies  – Disney Junior

Stillwater    –  Apple TV+

Storybots: Learn to Read  –     Netflix

 

OUTSTANDING DIRECTING FOR AN ANIMATED PROGRAM

 

Arlo the Alligator Boy   –  Netflix

Carmen Sandiego  – Netflix

Ciao Alberto  -Disney+

City of Ghosts –   Netflix

Dug Days   –  Disney+

Hilda and the Mountain King -Netflix

 

OUTSTANDING VOICE DIRECTING FOR AN ANIMATED SERIES

Amphibia -Disney Channel

Centaurworld  –  Netflix

Hilda and the Mountain King -Netflix

The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder  -Disney+

Summer Camp Island  -HBO/HBO Max

OUTSTANDING MUSIC DIRECTION AND COMPOSITION FOR A LIVE ACTION PROGRAM

Better Nate Than Ever -Disney+

The J Team  –  Paramount+

The Mysterious Benedict Society  -Disney+

Ruby and the Well –   BYUtv

Sneakerella – Disney+

 

OUTSTANDING MUSIC DIRECTION AND COMPOSITION FOR AN ANIMATED PROGRAM

Cat Burglar   –  Netflix

Looney Tunes Cartoons  – HBO/HBO Max

Snoopy Presents: To Mom (and Dad), with Love  –  Apple TV+

The Tom & Jerry Show  –  Boomerang

The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse -Disney+

 

OUTSTANDING ORIGINAL SONG

 

“Friends with a Penguin”: Sesame Street – HBO Max

“If You Have a Dream”: Fancy Nancy –  Disney Junior

“In Your Shoes”:  Sneakerella   – Disney+

“It’s the Small Things, Charlie Brown”:  It’s the Small Things, Charlie Brown  – Apple TV+

“Kicks”: Sneakerella  – Disney+

 

OUTSTANDING LIGHTING DESIGN FOR A LIVE ACTION PROGRAM

Donkey Hodie  –  PBS

Endlings  –  Hulu

Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament of Houses –  Cartoon Network I TBS

High School Musical: The Musical – The Series –  Disney Channel

Sesame Street  – HBO Max

OUTSTANDING CINEMATOGRAPHY FOR A LIVE ACTION SINGLE CAMERA PROGRAM

 

Better Nate Than Ever –   Disney+

Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock – Apple TV+

The Mysterious Benedict Society   – Disney+

Sneakerella  – Disney+

Waffles + Mochi   – Netflix

 

OUTSTANDING CINEMATOGRAPHY FOR A LIVE ACTION MULTIPLE CAMERA PROGRAM

Bunk’d   – Disney Channel

Family Reunion   – Netflix

Just Roll With It  –  Disney Channel

Punky Brewster  – Peacock

Raven’s Home   –   Disney+

OUTSTANDING EDITING FOR A SINGLE CAMERA PROGRAM

Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock  –    Apple TV+

Sneakerella  –  Disney+

Sweet Tooth  –  Netflix

The Mysterious Benedict Society  -Disney+

Who Are You, Charlie Brown? –  Apple TV+

OUTSTANDING EDITING FOR A MULTIPLE CAMERA PROGRAM

 

Making Fun   –  Netflix

The Not-Too-Late Show with Elmo: Game Edition    – HBO Max

Sesame Street -HBO Max

The Quest    –  Disney+

Top Chef Family Style  –  Peacock

 

OUTSTANDING EDITING FOR A PRESCHOOL ANIMATED PROGRAM

Beepers   –  Cartoon Network

Go! Go! Cory Carson  –    Netflix

Octonauts & the Ring of Fire  -Netflix

Stillwater   –   Apple TV+

Trash Truck –  Netflix

 

OUTSTANDING EDITING FOR AN ANIMATED PROGRAM

 

Ciao Alberto   –   Disney+

Dug Days  –   Disney+

Maya and the Three  –   Netflix

Monsters at Work  –    Disney+

Olaf Presents   –   Disney+

 

OUTSTANDING SOUND MIXING AND SOUND EDITING FOR A LIVE ACTION PROGRAM

 

The Astronauts –  Nickelodeon

Raising Dion  – Netflix

Scaredy Cats-  Netflix

Sweet Tooth-  Netflix

The Mysterious Benedict Society  – Disney+

OUTSTANDING SOUND MIXING AND SOUND EDITING FOR A PRESCHOOL ANIMATED PROGRAM

City of Ghosts –  Netflix

Go! Go! Cory Carson  – Netflix

Mecha Builders – HBO Max

Octonauts & the Ring of Fire  -Netflix

Octonauts: Above & Beyond  – Netflix

 

OUTSTANDING SOUND MIXING AND SOUND EDITING FOR AN ANIMATED PROGRAM

 

Ciao Alberto  –   Disney+

Hotel Transylvania: Transformania  –  Amazon Prime Video

Lego Star Wars Terrifying Tales                                                                               Disney+

Maya and the Three                                                                                                    Netflix

Trollhunters: Rise of the Titans   -Netflix

 

OUTSTANDING VISUAL EFFECTS FOR A LIVE ACTION PROGRAM

 

Endlings   –  Hulu

The Mysterious Benedict Society -Disney+

Raising Dion –   Netflix

Sweet Tooth   –  Netflix

Waffles + Mochi –   Netflix

 

OUTSTANDING MAIN TITLE AND GRAPHICS

 

Big Nate   – Paramount+

The Ghost and Molly McGee  – Disney Channel

Green Eggs and Ham – Netflix

Hilda and the Mountain King  -Netflix

The Mysterious Benedict Society  -Disney+

OUTSTANDING CASTING FOR A LIVE ACTION PROGRAM

 

Better Nate Than Ever  -Disney+

Doogie Kamealoha, M.D.   -Disney+

Heartstopper   –  Netflix

Muppets Haunted Mansion   -Disney+

Sweet Tooth  –  Netflix

 

OUTSTANDING CASTING FOR AN ANIMATED PROGRAM

 

Big Nate  –   Paramount+

Centaurworld – Netflix

Go! Go! Cory Carson –  Netflix

Monsters at Work –  Disney+

The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder   -Disney+

 

OUTSTANDING ART DIRECTION/SET DECORATION/SCENIC DESIGN

 

The Barbarian and the Troll  -Nickelodeon

Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock – Apple TV+

Muppets Haunted Mansion  – Disney+

The Mysterious Benedict Society   -Disney+

Sneakerella –  Disney+

 

OUTSTANDING COSTUME DESIGN/STYLING

 

High School Musical: The Musical – The Series                                           Disney Channel

The Mysterious Benedict Society                                                                               Disney+

Odd Squad                      PBS

Raven’s Home                                                                                                        Disney Channel

Sneakerella                                                                                                         Disney+

 

OUTSTANDING MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING

 

The Baby-Sitters Club  – Netflix

The Canterville Ghost   – BYUtv

The Fairly OddParents: Fairly Odder -Paramount+

Heartstopper –   Netflix

High School Musical: The Musical – The Series  –  Disney Channel

Sneakerella  – Disney+

Warped!   – Nickelodeon

 

OUTSTANDING SPECIAL EFFECTS COSTUMES, HAIR AND MAKEUP

 

Danger Force – Nickelodeon

Muppets Haunted Mansion – Disney+

Odd Squad –    PBS

The Quest  –  Disney+

Sweet Tooth  – Netflix

 

OUTSTANDING CHOREOGRAPHY

Better Nate Than Ever   -Disney+

The Fairly OddParents: Fairly Odder -Paramount+

High School Musical: The Musical – The Series- Disney Channel

The J Team  – Paramount+

Siwas Dance Pop Revolution –    Peacock

Sneakerella  –  Disney+

 

OUTSTANDING STUNT COORDINATION

 

Danger Force   –  Nickelodeon

Endlings –   Hulu

The Fairly OddParents: Fairly Odder -Paramount+

Raising Dion  – Netflix

Side Hustle  – Nickelodeon

The Adventureland Treehouse will return to Disneyland in 2023

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

Guests to Disneyland have noticed the absence of the Swiss Family Robinson treehouse. The attraction will reopen in 2023 with a new look and some new additions. The waterwheel will once again be the point of entry and the rope stairway is also remaining, although updated.

Once inside the treehouse, guests can explore the various rooms built by the family and inspired by the 1960 film Swiss Family Robinson, which starred John Mills, Dorothy McGuire, James MacArthur, Janet Munroe, Tommy Kirk, and Kevin Corcoran. The original treehouse in the park was built in 1962 and has been a favorite place for guests to explore over the years.

The upstairs of the treehouse includes the rooms inspired by the Robinson sons and daughter as well as the mother’s music den. The downstairs includes the dining room and kitchen, as well as the art studio used by Mr. Robinson.

 

Treehouses have been favorite excapes for kids for ages. They have been clubhouses for private clubs, escapes from family responsibilities, places to read and play, and just a special retreat from the main house. Keeping the treehouse part of the park was a necessity. It might even inspire kids and their families to build their own treehouse in their backyards.

The Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse is located on the banks of the Jungle River.

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. Follow her on Twitter.

Images provided courtesy of Disneyland Resort

86 Emmy nominations for Disney’s Children’s and Family programming

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

The Walt Disney Company received 86 nominations in the inaugural Children’s & Family Emmy® Awards across its content brands and studios: Disney Branded Television, Disney Channel, Disney Junior, Disney Television Studios’ 20th Television, Lucasfilm Ltd., Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney Studios. Disney’s streaming platforms Disney+ and Hulu earned 62 and seven nominations, respectively.

The first annual Children’s & Family Emmy® Awards will be presented on Saturday, December 10 (Creative Arts) and Sunday, December 11 at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre in Los Angeles. The Children’s & Family awards are the first standalone expansion of the Emmy Award competition since 1979.

The Mysterious Benedict Society (Disney+/20th Television/Disney Branded Television) – 11 nominations

11 nominations

Sneakerella (Disney+/Disney Branded Television) – 11 nominations

Better Nate Than Ever (Disney+/Walt Disney Studios) – 8 nominations

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series (Disney+/Disney Channel/Disney Branded Television) – 5 nominations

Ciao Alberto (Disney+/ Pixar Animation Studios) – 4 nominations

Doogie Kamealoha, M.D. (Disney+/20th Television/Disney Branded Television) – 4 nominations

Dug Days (Disney+/Pixar Animation Studios) – 3 nominations

Endlings (Hulu) – 3 nominations

Muppets Haunted Mansion (Disney+/Disney Branded Television) – 4 nominations

The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder (Disney+ /Disney Branded Television)- 3 nominations

The Quest (Disney+/Disney Branded Television) – 3 nominations

Raven’s Home (Disney Channel/Disney Branded Television) – 3 nominations

Amphibia (Disney Channel/Disney Branded Television) – 2 nominations

Madagascar: A Little Wild (Hulu) – 2 nominations

Monsters at Work (Disney+/Disney Branded Television) – 2 nominations

Muppet Babies (Disney Junior/Disney Branded Television) – 2 nominations

Spin (Disney Channel/Disney Branded Television) – 2 nominations

Alice’s Wonderland Bakery (Disney Junior/Disney Branded Television) – 1 nomination

BUNK’D (Disney Channel/Disney Branded Television) – 1 nomination

CHOOSE KINDNESS Campaign (Disney Channel) – 1 nomination

Diary of a Future President (Disney+/Disney Branded Television) – 1 nomination

Dragons: The Nine Realms (Hulu) – 1 nomination

Fancy Nancy (Disney Junior/Disney Branded Television) – 1 nomination

First Day (Hulu) – 1 nomination

The Ghost and Molly McGee (Disney Channel/Disney Branded Television) – 1 nomination

Just Roll With It (Disney Channel/Disney Branded Television) – 1 nomination

Lego Star Wars Terrifying Tales (Disney+/Lucasfilm Ltd.) – 1 nomination

Mickey and Minnie Wish Upon a Christmas (Disney Junior/Disney Branded Television) – 1 nomination

Olaf Presents (Disney+/Walt Disney Animation Studios) – 1 nomination

Secrets of Sulphur Springs (Disney+/Disney Channel/Disney Branded Television) – 1 nomination

The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse (Disney+/Disney Branded Television) – 1 nomination

Celebrate with Pommery Champagne

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

 

It’s the time of year when everyone is shopping for holiday gifts. Let’s face it, the holidays are centered on children with all the fun and festivities. So after the house is decorated, the gifts are wrapped, and parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc., are worn out, why not celebrate with some delicious bubbly? We deserve it.

Pommery wines are the product of Madame Pommery. Her 1874 Brut was highly respected. The current creations are deserving of the great name. Founded in 1857 this winery has continued to produce some fine wines.



Champagne Pommery’s new world collection: the Mandala Boxes, Cuvée Louise 2005 ($224.99), or Cuvée Louise Brut Nature 2006 ($244.99).

In various traditions, Mandalas are employed as a guidance tool, and these in particular are inspired by the universe and serve as an aid to meditation. Unlock your spiritual path and discover the journey of the creation of Pommery Champagne with the stunning Mandala Gift Boxes available in Brut Royal ($51.99), Brut Rosé Royal ($64.99), Blanc de Blancs ($65.99), and Grand Cru Royal Millésimé 2009 ($74.99).  

Cuvée Louise was inspired by the personality of its founder, Madame Jeanne-Alexandrine Louise Pommery. It begins in a specially reserved vineyard and is a blend of three Grand Crus, the majority of which is Chardonnay. It is then placed in the cellars where it is allowed to age and develop, slowly and naturally. The result is elegant champagne with a velvety, creamy texture with a delicate flavor with incredible harmony and minerality.

Cuvée Louise Brut Nature is the purest and most authentic expression of the great terroirs it derives from. It is reserved for the most exceptional vintages which permit a refined vision of Louise with their richness and perfect harmony. With its minerality and incomparable flavors, Cuvée Louise Nature 2006 is a confidential cuvée created with the absence of dosage.

Having tested one sample, I can say that the Pommery Brut Royal Rose is wonderful. It’s full of essence and a light yet full flavored juicy Rose.

So, why not celebrate the holidays with something new? And for a last-minute gift, these might fit the bill.

Also, remember that New Year’s is coming soon. Is it 2023 already? Where do the years go?

So pop a cork and celebrate.

About the Author

Francine Brokaw  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.

Bring home ‘Top Gun: Maverick’

Posted on by Francine Brokaw


Odds are fans of Top Gun will probably have seen the sequel Top Gun: Maverickin the theater on the big screen. If, however, that is not the case, now is the time to pick up a DVD, Blu-ray, or 4K version of the film because not only does the movie itself wow viewers, but the bonus features are also amazing. It’s been a long time since the original film was produced in 1986. Since that time Tom Cruise has been asked over and over again when he will make a sequel, and his response was always the same. He would not make a sequel unless the story was worth it. And Top Gun: Maverick is worth what it took to create this E-ticket experience.

The story itself is engaging. Pete “Maverick” Mitchell (Cruise) is still a cocky, daring pilot. He is a test pilot for experimental aircraft, but when he is called back to TOP GUN for a special mission, his career takes a different path. He is tasked with training a group of the best pilots for a special and dangerous mission. His job not only involves training this group but he must also select the pilots that will actually undertake the mission.

One of the pilots is Lt. Bradshaw (Miles Teller) who is the son of his former wingman “Goose” who was killed back in the original film. But there is some bad blood between Bradshaw and Mitchell. So, while he is training these elite pilots and teaching them how to survive the mission, there are some personal elements going on in the background.

Val Kilmer reprises his role as Tom Kazansky only now he is an Admiral. Kazansky and Mitchell had a tenuous relationship in the first film but now they are fans of each other.

The bonus features on the Blu-ray, 4K, and digital versions are remarkable. First, viewers learn how they actually filmed this movie. Unlike the original movie, this was not done with CGI or camera tricks. Oh no. On the contrary. The actors had to undertake rigorous training and filmed in actual F18 jets. Training for their roles was not easy yet that was what Cruise insisted on in order to make this film. He wanted to show the true experience of a fighter pilot.

To get the required six cameras inside the jets, the production crew and the air force worked hand in hand for over a year to make sure the cameras would not interfere with the jets. Imagine flying an expensive F18 and having a piece of equipment break off.

Besides their robust training in the F18s, the actors experienced several levels of training to the insistence of Cruise. He knew how to get them to the level he wanted to create this amazing film.

Cruise, a pilot himself, flew his P51 Mustang single engine airplane in the film as well.

Music videos round out the bonus features. The bonus content adds to the experience of watching this movie.

Top Gun: Maverick is rated PG-13 for sequences of intense action and some strong language.

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.  Follow her on Twitter.

Starlette Galleria’s Engagement Rings – review

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

If you are looking for an alternate ring to wear on a cruise, to a ballgame, or just to enjoy without worrying about it being lost or stolen, look no further. Starlette Galleria has some great stand-ins for your expensive rings.

 

Founded by Olivia Starling, these hypoallergenic rings are great for engagements, weddings, and everyday. I have no compunction about replacing my wedding ring with a CZ alternative when traveling, and this one I just received is sparkling and beautiful.

Yes, I did receive this complimentary ring from the company to review should I feel it is worthy of my readers purchasing. And yes, I do love it.

 

The rings feature simulated diamonds (AAA CZ) set in 925 Sterling Silver and plated in either rhodium or 14k gold. This means they look more expensive that they are and they won’t tarnish. It bothers me when I want to wear a ring and it is tarnished. Who wants to polish their jewelry all the time? Plus, the rings won’t turn your finger green.

Losing one of these Starlette rings won’t bring on a lot of regret, although I still would not want to lose it. The jewelry is only a tiny fraction of the price compared to high end jewelry.

With the price of gold these days, it is out-of-reach for many people. Even if you can afford that beautiful ring you have had your eye on for the past year, the Starlette rings will add some sparkle to your jewelry collection. And switching off from one design to another is fun and affordable.

 

Out of the group of complimentary rings I was offered, I selected the Eliza. It is a dainty yet substantial two-piece set. The center stone is not too large. I wanted something believable. And the set can be worn either as one single ring or a double, with a thin band nesting into the main ring.

 

There are many selections as well as price points. Maybe the kids would like to pull their money and order a sparkling ring for Mother’s Day,  a birthday, or the holidays. Wow. What an amazing present to open.

It is worth checking out the line of rings from Starlette Galleria. They have other jewelry too.

 

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.

 

 

 

Bluejay Electric Bikes – review

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

Bluejay E-bikes has just introduced their second model – Bluejay Sport to go along with the Premier Edition model. These bikes are comfortable and very attractive.

The company invited me on a media ride to get acquainted with these bikes and I did enjoy the ride. I rode the Premier Edition with is a step-through model making it easier for those of us with, let’s just say knee problems. The new Sport model was designed for more off-road rides, although it is still a good city bike.

The battery on these bikes supplies a good push even when it is set to the lowest level. When the level is increased (which I did when going up a hill) the motor makes uphill peddling a breeze. The motor kicks in as soon as the pedal is engaged, so there is no awkward starting point. As they explained to me before I began my ride, it’s like having someone giving the bike a little assist – similar to when you learned to ride. I remember those days. My dad would run alongside my bike holding on until he thought I was capable of riding by myself. It worked, and the motor on the Bluejay works too, to make that takeoff and ride fun and easy.

The seat was very comfortable as were the handle grips. The information is displayed on an easy-to-read screen, and with the 75-mile battery life, this is one bike that can easily go several days when out for little jaunts.

 

Okay, let’s get down to the best part – the colors! Haha.  The colors are beautiful. The Sport model has some attractive matte colors and the Premier model has shiny paint. No matter which color you like, these are the best looking e-bikes I have ever seen.

Families will enjoy the easy-to-attach child seat as well as the comfy child buggy. These are not made specifically by Bluejay but are available for these bikes. You can even double up with a child seat on the rear of the bike and tow the buggy. Taking your family out for a ride in the park, by the beach, or just around the neighborhood is easier now with E-bikes. And for those peddling, well, let’s just say the ride got a lot smoother and less demanding.

 

I could get into more specifics about the Bluejay but it’s better if you check them out for yourself. To find a retailer near you to get detailed information, purchase or test drive, check here.

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.

Doctor Plotka’s Mouthwatchers

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

Oral hygiene is important. If you’re like me you usually have a toothbrush with you when you’re going to be out all day. But when it comes down to it, are the travel toothbrushes safe and clean? Doctor Plotka’s is an all-in-one foldable toothbrush that easily fits into a pocket, gym bag, purse, or backpack.

These foldable toothbrushes (invented by a dentist) are infused with silver to eliminate 99% of bacteria on the bristles, according to the website. The bristles are also positioned to clean at the gums and between teeth. They’re not floss but they do clean well. The bristles are thin to reach between teeth and into crevices. The company sent me some samples and I like the fact that they are antimicrobial.

If you work in an office and drink coffee, tea, soda, or snack at your desk, it is a good idea to keep a toothbrush handy. Brushing after drinking helps with oral hygiene. And it’s always a good idea to brush after lunch. This handy little toothbrush easily stores in a desk drawer without having to keep a separate pouch for it.

And teens in school definitely need to have a toothbrush in their lockers. For students with braces it is a must. When your mouth is fresh and clean you feel fresh and clean.

Long plane rides are another time when this foldable toothbrush comes in handy. With the tiny travel size toothpastes, the two items take up almost no space.

For travel, work, school, or whenever, this is a handy item. It’s never too young to start an oral hygiene habit. Keeping teeth clean and healthy is much easier – and way less expensive – than dealing with oral problems later in life.

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.

‘Three Wishes for Cinderella’ is a different take on the popular tale

Posted on by Francine Brokaw

In a twist on the fairy tale we all know and love, Three Wishes for Cinderella is a Norwegian version starring Scandinavian pop star Astrid S. The story has many of the same elements as the familiar tale, yet there are plenty of differences.

Cinderella lives as a servant to her stepmother. In this version the orphan has only one stepsister, and this spoiled girl is not as evil as those we have known in past versions. Cinderella is a sweet, kind hearted young woman who enjoys spending time with her animal friends.

One day while riding her horse, she comes upon a man. She chastises him about the evils of hunting and killing animals for no reason other than sport. The two hit it off and they enjoy some time together in the snow. Then Cinderella learns his identity. He is the prince. She leaves him in the snow and heads home.

The prince in this story is definitely more immature than past princes. He does not want to meet a perspective future wife at the ball, and lets his parents know how he feels.  He also has a habit of running away from his life. He’s not princely in the least.

While preparing her stepmother and stepsister for the ball, Cinderella yearns to go too. Unfortunately for those of us who love the fairy godmother from the past, there is no such character in this story. Instead, Cinderella obtains three magic acorns. These are the catalysts for her ball gown and other miracles in her life. 

The ball is pretty much the same as the ones we are used to, and yes, there is a lost shoe. But after that part things are completely different. Cinderella ultimately finds her courage and strength to stand on her own and defy her stepmother. And in the end, yes, there is a happy ending for the prince and Cinderella but only after she uses her archery skills to save a life or two. 

Fans of Frozen will notice the similarity between the castle in this movie and the one in Arendelle.  Viewers might even expect Elsa and Anna to come dancing across the bridge. And there is a little bit of Merida (Brave) in Cinderella when it comes to her archery expertise. 

This entire story takes place in the beautiful snowy Nordic winter, so grab a cup of hot chocolate and make yourself comfortable when you pop in this disc or watch the digital version.  

Three Wishes for Cinderella is from Shout! Studios and is now available on Blu-ray, DVD, and digital. The film is not rated.

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. Francine is a longstanding member of the Television Critics Association and is accredited by the MPAA.