Movie Review - Jumanji 2, The Next Level

One of the items on Molly & Jack's Christmas Vacation bucket list was going to the theatre to see Jumanji 2, The Next Level.  We managed to check it out before they headed back to school on Monday.

via Consequence of Sound

What's in it for the Kids?
If your kid enjoyed the first reboot movie, they're sure to like the players facing off against the next level of the semi-cursed video game.  All of the old characters are there, along with some new ones, and the same funny running jokes as before.  It's fast paced and fun with a lot of action.

What's in it for the Adults?
In addition to the talents of the original cast, adults can take comfort in familiar faces from their childhood in the forms of Danny DeVito (playing a grandpa) and his fellow senior citizen friend Danny Glover who enter the game by accident while the teens need to navigate Jumanji alongside a pair who aren't well versed in video games or surviving the game.

Best Parts of the Movie
Funny video-game sized action with a fantastic cast, bound to keep you laughing all the way through. The addition of Awkwafina to the movie was an excellent fit.

via The Medium Is Not Enough

Worst Parts of the Movie
If you're going in and looking for a completely different story, you are going to be disappointed.  The same goes if you haven't seen the original film because you are going to miss some of the inside jokes and the film won't be as enjoyable. For a good portion Dwayne Johnson puts on a fake accent that doesn't work, but you can tell it was the best he could do. As far as sequels go, this one is solid, but it's still not as good as the original reboot.

Parental Warning
There are some adult jokes and language in this movie, along with some video game style Jumanji violence.  If you don't think your kid can take that, don't take them to this movie.

Overall Rating
A fun and wild ride I would rate this movie a 3.5/5, the kids really liked it and I would watch it again with the kids if they wanted to, but probably not multiple times like I would with the original Jumanji reboot.

Movie Review Spiderman Far From Home

Jack has been talking about Spiderman Far From Home for months, so we promised him we'd get out to see it within the first week of it opening at the box office.  Fun fact, my super twins share a birthday with Peter Parker and they're super stoked about it.

Note: There are spoilers in this review for Avengers Infinity War & Avengers End Game (but not the Spiderman Movie)

via The Collegiate

What's in it for the Kids?
Same old neighbourhood Spiderman, but this time in Europe.  This movie has stuck with Jack and he has continued to talk about for it for days since we watched it.  It's fun, fast, friendly, and mostly kid friendly (cause it's Spiderman).

Are There End Credits Easter Eggs?
Yes, two.  You'll want to sit through two sets of end credits to see what's next for Spiderman and the rest of the Marvel Universe.

What's in it for the Adults?
Fast fun dialogue, along with Samuel L. Jackson and other Avengers/ Agents of Shield Cameos.   As an adult I appreciated (SPOILER ALERT) the way Spiderman copes with imposter syndrome and his new role as a hero following the death of Iron Man in Avengers End Game. 

via Movie Web

Best Parts of the Movie
Good live action and it deals with some pretty great themes.  The kids were really entertained by the theme of a romantic rivalry between Peter Parker and another character to get MJs attention.  I really liked the detail explaining some of the questions left unanswered in a post Thanos world.

Worst Parts of the Movie
A solid movie, but some stuff that got predictable.  I was able to predict a few things before they happened, but the kids did not.

Are My Kids too Young to watch this Movie?
Parents who care about romantic themes or swearing, should note there is some of that, but in a very PG way.  There was one particularly scary scene involving a nightmare like sequence that could spook some kids. There are some scarier monsters in some of the fight sequences. Both Molly and Jack say you should be a brave six or seven year old before you're old enough to watch.

Overall Rating
The kids loved the movie and it got them invested/ excited about what's coming next in the Marvel Universe.  Molly and Jack both rated this movie a 5/5, whereas Chris and I saw it more as a 3.5/5.  A fun summer superhero movie to watch with the whole family.

See the movie? What did you think?

Movie Review - The Incredibles 2

On the last day of school we decided to surprise the kids with a trip to the movies after our annual trip to Dairy Queen for Ice Cream.  Both had put checking out the Incredibles in theatres on our summer bucket list, and I'm not lying it was pretty cool to knock it off the list on our very first day of the break.

Movie Review The Incredibles 2

Image Courtesy of Facebook

What's in it for the Kids?
If your kids dug the first Incredibles movie, this offers all of the same characters you love (although for whatever reason the animators decided to completely change what teen hero Violet's love interest Tony looks like - Buzzfeed even wrote an article about it you can check out here).  There are a lot of laughs with baby Jack Jack as he begins to explore the full range of his own super powers.  This provided most of the kid related comic relief for the movie.

What's in it for the Adults?
Although both Incredibles movies are supposed to be set in the past (we have not idea exactly how distant) both adult characters face feelings of incompetence and stress when taking on new job and family related responsibilities - very easy to relate to (although this could be seen as reinforcing old fashioned women in the workforce gender roles - worthy of debate).  The villain in this film, Screenslaver, serves as a creepy Big Brother reminder that felt very Orwellian to my English major self.  Voice work by all of the original characters, Craig T. Nelson, Samuel Jackson, Holly Hunter, and Brad Bird continued to impress, as did the additions of  Bob Odenkirk (Better Call Saul) and Catherine Keener.

The Incredible Family

Best Parts of the Movie
After a 14 year gap this movie hits the ground running, in what is set to be mere days after the first film.  Action sequences are fun and the villain is genuinely scary.  Kids in the theatre six and under were quite scared in specific villain confrontation scenes, so consider yourself warned in what is otherwise a family friendly flick. You don't need to have seen the first movie to enjoy this film.


Worst Parts of the Movie
The movie felt a little long at times, particularly in the first half, but once it got rolling the kids were highly invested in the characters, so much so that we had to force Jack to go to the washroom while it was still on. 

Overall Rating
I would rate this movie 3.5/5, I don't consider it a classic, but the kids enjoyed it and want to watch it again.  A fun way to beat the heat on a hot summer day, but don't sweat it if you wait until it comes to a small screen for streaming near you.

To read my review of A Wrinkle in Time click here

A Wrinkle in Time - Movie Review

The kids were both really excited to see A Wrinkle In Time.  I must admit, despite being a child of the 1980's I had never read the book.  After seeing mixed reviews online I was a little skeptical, but the kids were interested, so we decided to make it our March Break Matinee film.

Image Courtesy of The Verge

What's in it for the Kids?
This is not a movie for little kids.  If your kid scares easily, or has trouble focusing on live action compared to cartoon, wait to watch this until they're 7-9.  It was almost a mash-up or nod to a bunch of films I grew up with, and with Molly and Jack's recent interest in films like Never-ending Story, the timing of this movie couldn't of been better for them.


What's in it for the Adults?
Visually this movie is stunning.  The costumes and background are bound to give you some wanderlust and a sense of enchantment and wonder. Performances by favourites like Reese Witherspoon, Oprah, Mindy Kaling, and Zach Galifianakis won't disappoint.  Just remember to keep in mind this movie is for kids, not you, and that it was Disneyfied for children, and you'll be okay.  While Storm Reid was fantastic playing the conflicted Meg, my prediction for career potential goes to Levi Miller (Calvin) who has an amazing presence, despite his smaller role, that was somewhat reminiscent of a young River Phoenix.


Best Parts of the Movie
This movie ambitiously takes on a lot.  It touches on everything from being yourself to bullying to self worth to family dynamics.  Some of the lessons are more subtle, whereas others hit you over the head, but the kids didn't seem to notice.  Jack's favourite parts of the movie were discussions around "the it" (darkness) vs. positive energy and the light.  Molly loved Meg, as a female warrior, as well as Ms. Which (Oprah).  We've been working a lot with Molly on body positivity - I can't get over how young things like body image and fat shaming come into play for little kids.  Molly falling in love Ms. Which because, according to Molly - she is the oldest, biggest, strongest, and most powerful, felt like a win to me. Recently we've noticed the strong influence that pop culture and the the world of twig thin female heroines has had on her definition of beauty, health and strength- bravo to this film which literally calls out the question, "Is there such thing as the wrong size?"

Image Courtesy of YouTube

Worst Parts of the Movie
This film had no cruise control and an uneven pace.  The story building was slow, then audiences were taken warp speed into the story, and then spit back out again at the end.  There were plot holes, but I could forgive them, because the kids loved this movie. I have never read the book, so I have no point of reference, but this movie seemed a bit like a Frankenstein of other successful films as it pieced together a non linear story in a way children could understand with inspiration from films like The Labyrinth, Never-ending Story, and Return to Oz.

Overall Rating
I would rate this movie 3/5, it wasn't nearly as bad as the critics are making it out to be, and the kids really liked it.  Brimming with positive messages about making change and being your own hero and warrior, as well as embracing your faults, give it a shot, just maybe not in theatres.

To read my review of Captain Underpants click here

To read my review of Boss Baby click here

To read my review of the Lego Batman movie click here

Despicable Me 3 - Movie Review

Going to a sequel for a movie you love is one thing, but by the time you get to the third movie in a series things can fall apart pretty easily.  I would have been content to wait until Despicable Me 3 came to Netflix, but the minions had other ideas, and even put seeing the movie on their summer bucket list, so we went to the film on the opening weekend with their grandparents.

Image Courtesy of Wikia

Despicable Me 3

What's in it for the Kids?
The same old characters they've fallen in love with over the past two movies, and a handful of new ones.  Some slapstick laughs kept my kids, and all of the other kids in the theatre in regular laughter

What's in it for the Adults?
This movie is geared at children, period, so don't go in expecting anything directed at the parents or you'll be disappointed.  There's a Star Wars reference to explain Dr. Nefario (Russell Brand's) absence in the movie that wasn't lost on me.  Voices are reprised by Steve Carrell, Julie Andrews, and Kristen Wiig. Trey Parker has been added as the latest villain.

Image Courtesy of Flickering Myth

Best Parts of the Movie
The slapstick comedy is king for kids watching this movie.  When I asked Molly and Jack for their favourite parts, both mentioned the slapstick filled scenes.  The latest villain who is trapped in his 1980's heyday provides some fashion and pop culture nostalgia to parents who lived through the 1980's, along with a decent retro soundtrack.


Worst Parts of the Movie
There were so many subplots in this movie that felt like they'd already been beaten to death in the first two movies.  Lucy is struggling with being a mom, Agnes loves unicorns, the minions want to be bad again, we get it! I get that it could be fun watching Steve Carrell play twins, but the whole long lost twin brother thing jumped the shark for me. This movie feels like someone drew ten ideas out of a hat and decided to roll, poorly, with all of them.  The movie focuses at a very shallow level on "real" family issues instead of the cool heroes fighting crime or bad guys being bad aspects. I fell asleep for a few minutes, twice. The minions were barely in the film, and when they were there was a plot hole that left Molly crying at the end of the movie.  In one scene, minion Bob is left behind by the other minions and it's never addressed again.  Perhaps that scene was cut? Either way Molly noticed and was quite upset.

Overall Rating
I would rate this movie 2.5/5, it wasn't terrible, but it was forgettable and blends with the other two movies too much, all while leaving bad aftertaste.  The kids enjoyed it, but at the same time, if they ask to watch it again when it comes out on Netflix, I'm going to opt to do something else.

To read my review of Captain Underpants click here

To read my review of Boss Baby click here

To read my review of the Lego Batman movie click here

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Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie A Movie Review

Jack discovered Captain Underpants in the books at his after-school program.  Immediately he fell in love with the tighty-whitie clad hero who looks like a giant baby, and bathroom humour to boot!  He also fell in love with story time, books, and comics thanks to the brilliance of Dav Pilkey.  We're currently at number 10 in the Captain Underpants series, and have also become big fans of the Dog Man series thanks to Jack and his infectious giggles.

Image Courtesy of Teaser Trailer

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie

What's in it for the Kids?
Friendship, fart jokes, and the comforts of a story that many, many kids know well and are growing up with.  The story runs pretty close to the first and fourth book in the series and leaves room for many sequels should this flick bring in the numbers they're looking for at the box office.

What's in it for the Adults?
If your kids love Captain Underpants as much as mine do, odds are you'll know the story quite well. We were all pleasantly surprised to see that the voice interpretations Chris has been practicing for the past several months for Captain Underpants/Principal Krupp, and Melvin Sneedly were spot on.  This is a kids movie, geared directly at kids, with a lot of bathroom jokes in it, so there isn't a lot in there for parents (unless potty humour is your jam), but you can enjoy the voice talents of Kevin Hart, Ed Helms, Kristen Schaal, Nick Kroll, and Thomas Middleditch (Silicon Valley).

Image Courtesy of YouTube

Best Parts of the Movie
This is the next generation of Superfudge (man I feel old saying that) but brought to the big screen with celebrity voice actors, CG animation, and even a movie style Flip-O-Rama in a real ode to the Dav Pilkey books in all of its movie glory. While there is no real moral to the story, and you may need to have a couple of conversations with your kids about toning down the toilet humour, the friendship in this movie between George and Harold is as special in the movie as it is in the book.


Worst Parts of the Movie
I found myself wanting more humour, more wit, and more potty jokes than what was provided here. Other adults with me agreed.  In the last 20 minutes of the film I found my dedication to the little plot present lagging, but was re-interested each time I heard the little giggle of Jack from a few seats over.


Overall Rating
I would rate this movie 3/5, because I just wanted more but Molly and Jack would give it a solid 4. Sometimes a movie comes out at the perfect time for the perfect person to enjoy it: Jack is that person right now and both kids loved the film. Jack who usually has so many questions during a film that we have to limit the number of times he's permitted to talk sat there in jaw dropped silence that was only broken by his belly laughs.  We will own this movie, and we will see all of the sequels, but not because of our insistence.  It's not the type of movie that you're going to hate your child watching, but you won't be compelled to sit down and join them.  If your kids love Captain Underpants in all of his "Tra La La" glory, go and see this with them.

To read my review of Boss Baby click here

To read my review of the Lego Batman movie click here

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Big Boss Man: Movie Review Boss Baby

Boss Baby was excellently marketed to kids. We pass by a giant billboard advertising the movie at least twice a day, and have seen several others all over the city. Molly in particular took notice and added watching this movie to our spring bucket list.  We decided a rainy weekend day would be a great time to check out the film.

Image courtesy of www.dreamworks.com

What's in it for the Kids?
Many kids can feel put out when a new sibling arrives.  This movie is all about sibling rivalry, paired with out there moments from the mind of a child (main character Tim) who has a fantastic imagination.  The movie is quick moving and delivers pretty much what the commercials advertise.

What's in it for the Adults?
I have a weird thing for Alec Baldwin that I've never quite understood (don't judge me).  He is the perfect person for the Boss Baby role in all of his 30 Rock Jack Donaghy glory.  There are a few jokes in this film geared towards the grown-ups that kids won't get - hopefully enough to get you through another kid movie.  I thoroughly enjoyed this film, and found myself laughing often, even when other people in the theatre were not.  Additional voice work provided by favourites including: Steve Buscemi, Lisa Kudrow, Jimmy Kimmel, and and Tobey Maguire.

Image courtesy of  www.screendaily.com

Best Parts of the Movie
Kids (and adults) who like a high action real cartoon feel to a movie will totally dig this film.  The fantasy sequences were imaginative and charming enough to keep parents engaged.  Side note: I am in love with Timmy's wizard clock (Wizzie) .

Worst Parts of the Movie
The concept is a bit of a one trick pony (he's a baby and the boss), but we went in with this in mind and were pleasantly surprised.  There are scenes in the early part of the movie (introductions of Boss Baby) that could be quite scary for a little kid.  One of the kids we saw the movie with was on her mom's lap and quite scared for about five minutes, but quickly got over it.  This scene seemed a little unnecessarily dark for a film targeted towards kids.

Overall Rating
I would rate this movie 3.5/5, it wasn't super original, but we all thoroughly enjoyed it.  Since Molly liked it so much it is a movie we will end up purchasing and potentially watching again and again. Molly's favourite part of the movie was scenes involving the big, strong, baby.  Jack loved the gross out moments when the kids were trying to trick their babysitter and laughed hysterically throughout anything slapstick or gross. As grown-ups we had fun with it, but I don't know how well I'd cope if the minions want to watch the movie as often as they do Trolls.  See it with your kids, but go in knowing that it's not going to be one of those movies that changes your life, and you won't regret it.

To read my review of the Lego Batman movie click here

To read my review of Trolls (which is now available for purchase) click here.

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Movie Review Moana

Over the holidays we enjoyed cuddling up from the cold with a few movies.  Moana was one of them. Here is my review based on my thoughts as a parent, as well as what the minions have had to say.

Image courtesy of movies.disney.com

What's in it for the Kids?
This movie does what Disney does best -  sing songs, in a child-friendly plot, with a handful of charming characters little ones will love.  Moana is being prepared to take over as the eventual leader of her people, but is drawn to the sea, despite her father's warnings (pretty typical Disney source of conflict).  When she must save her people by going on a seaward quest, and force the trickster demi-god Maui to return what he had stolen many years ago, she learns a lot about her personal strength and abilities. Comic relief was provided throughout the film by chicken Hey Hey, who Jack found absolutely hilarious, while Molly related more to story lead Moana.

What's in it for the Adults?
The animation for this movie provides a lush and pretty landscape to admire.  The film contains some pretty fun, and authentic voice talents for lead roles.  Anyone who enjoyed Flight of the Conchords is sure to get a laugh or two out of Jemaine Clement's David Bowie(esque) song and persona as Tamatoa.  Dwayne Johnson is fantastic as the arrogant, yet oddly charming Maui.  I particularly loved the strong female influence throughout the generations in Moana's life, and the support she received from her mother and grandmother.

Best Parts of the Movie
Finally, a Disney movie with no romantic love story.  No prince saving the day, no kisses, just a leader learning how to lead, period.  This change to the Disney formula made a pretty typical hero story feel a lot less tired, and a lot more authentic to it's intended girl power messaging.


Worst Parts of the Movie
The story is pretty predictable, and although Moana isn't technically a princess (she's the daughter of the Chief) it's still a pretty cliched story about a princess (with an animal sidekick) who must overcome challenges to find herself and save the day. The movie received a PG rating for some "villains" who may seem scary to really young children (although at five neither Molly or Jack had an issue with being scared during the film, there were a couple of younger kids who were crying during a specific conflict scene).  Despite this being a good film, most of the songs didn't carry the same memorable oomph Disney is known for (I can assure you, the next Let it Go is not hiding in this film).

Overall Rating
I would rate this movie 4/5.  It's watchable and re-watchable for kids and I know that we'll purchase it when it comes out for sale.  I liked that the women in this movie were strong and capable, both physically and spiritually and the message this sends to both kids.

To read about the minions journey into the world of Star Wars click here.

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Trolls: A Movie Review

This weekend we decided to take the minions to the movie to check out the new Dreamworks pics Trolls.  Here is a review from our, Molly ,and Jack's perspective.

Promo Shots for Trolls 

What's in it for the Kids?
This movie is a visual trip to the candy store, with bubble gum catchy songs and adorable little trolls. There's a whole lot of positivity, stick-to-it-iveness, and team first messaging (as no troll gets left behind) that both parent and kids can get behind.  The little kid themed humour and affection of trolls who hug every hour, (one troll poops cupcakes and another farts glitter) will keep the little ones giggling throughout.

What's in it for the Adults?
Many songs that you love to hear when you've had a few drinks at a holiday party or wedding are featured in this film ("I'm Coming Out", "Hello", "It's a Sunshine Day", and "Total Eclipse of the Heart").  Be warned, they are earworms and you'll be humming them the next day, but that's not a bad thing.  Voice talents of a lot of your favourite stars: Justin Timberlake, Anna Kendrick, Russell Brand, Zooey Deschanel, John Cleese (and heck, they even feature McLovin himself, Christopher Mintz-Plasse as the king of the dreaded Bergen).  There are a handful of double entendre jokes intended for parents in this slightly psychedelic feeling film, but overall the movie is mostly for the kids. Basically enjoy watching your young kids eat up this sprinkle-laden, sugar coated film, and get your groove on to the fun tunes.

Best Parts of the Movie
The songs are a definite highlight here.  Justin Timberlake's cover of Cyndi Lauper's True Colours is pretty and tugs at all of the right heart strings.  Literally every child in our movie-going group climbed up into a parent's lap during this song for a cuddle.  The visuals are great, particularly if you're okay with feeling as if you're trapped in a Katy Perry video for an hour and a half.  Jack loved the little worm troll (Mr. Dinkles) and giggled with glee, jumping up and down every time he was on the screen. He also lost his mind and was grinning ear to ear when The Bergen sang "Clint Eastwood" by The Gorillas, which is one of his all time favourite songs.  For most of the movie we shushed Jack encouraging him to quiet down, but he was so excited and happy about what was going on, we also just watched him in awe thrilled at how much he was enjoying himself.

Worst Parts of the Movie
There is nothing new to this plot, but that's okay.  Basically everyone is happy in Troll land for 20 years after they escape from the terrible Bergen who eat them once a year to obtain happiness. Everything is wonderful and sparkle-filled for all Trolls except for one gloomy hyper vigilant troll named Branch (voiced by Timberlake).  When the Trolls are discovered at their 20th anniversary celebration and many are captured, it's up to positive Princess Poppy (Kendrick) and cynic Branch to save the day.  Adventure ensues, and everyone learns about happiness. The film has been described by the harsher critics as a more bubblegum laden re-make of Shrek (although I'd personally say it's more like Shrek meets Frozen).  There have also been complaints it's a cash grab for selling toys since the holiday season that's coming, but seriously what kid's movie isn't marketing their characters? This movie isn't a classic, but both kids, Jack in particular, really enjoyed it.  I'd say it's the best for the under 8-10 crowd, but a fun movie the whole family can enjoy together.

Overall Rating
I would rate this movie 3.5/5.  It's watchable and rewatchable in the background for parents who will end up watching it again and again (like us if Jack has his way) by osmosis when it's released for purchase in a few months. November is a typically grey month, why not brighten it up with some sparkle laden, pastel fun!

To read about the minions journey into the world of Star Wars click here.

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Red Riding Hood: Movie Review Hoodwinked Too

Molly and Jack love the movie Hoodwinked, so as soon as they heard there was a sequel they both began clamouring to check it out, immediately.  Despite sub par reviews on Rotten Tomatoes we decided to check it out, after all, the first movie didn't get great reviews and all of us liked it, so we watched it for Sunday Night movie night a couple of weeks ago.

Movie Review: Hoodwinked Too

Image Courtesy of Wikipedia

What's in it for the Kids?
Revisit all of your favourite characters from the first film as they try to rescue Hansel and Gretel from the evil witch.  The plot offers good discussion points on jealousy and team dynamic, revisits a lot of old jokes, and the characters they love.

What's in it for the Adults?
This film has some of the witty, fast, and funny dialogue from the first movie that will keep the parents (mildly) entertained. The movie also features the returning voice talents of: Glenn Close, Patrick Warburton, and Andy Dick.  Hayden Penettiere has replaced Anne Hathaway as Red for this movie (but truthfully I didn't notice much difference). New voices include: Amy Poehler, Bill Hader, Brad Garrett, Joan Cusak, Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong.

Best Parts of the Movie
The first half of the movie continues with the same fast paced and fun dialogue as the first film, but then about halfway into the movie this momentum kinda dies.  Molly and Jack love Hansel and Gretel and have requested to watch the movie several more times since our first viewing.

Worst Parts of the Movie
This movie just stalls.  Chris and I both fell asleep in front of it at the 30-40 minute mark during two separate viewings because it's just missing something that the original movie had.  It's just not as funny, period.

Overall Rating
Molly and Jack love this movie, but their tastes can be questionable, so I'm not relying on them for a critical analysis of a film.   I would rate this movie 2.5/5.  There is nothing offensive that would stop me from letting them watch the movie because they love it, however I won't be watching it with them again, unless I need a nap.

To read my review of the original film, Hoodwinked, click here

To read my review on Zootopia click here

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Zootopia - Movie Review

We'd been creeping on the positive Rotten Tomato reviews and hearing news of box office record smashing for nearly a week when we decided Sunday afternoon was a good time to check out Zootopia with the minions.

Disney Zootopia promotion courtesy of Forbes

Movie Review: Zootopia 

What's in it for the Kids?
An engaging story about determination, sticktoitiveness and fighting prejudice (both of others and your own).  Animal character Judy tries to navigate her new life in the big city, Zootopia, as the first ever rabbit police officer, finding help in an unlikely ally, a fox named Nick.

What's in it for the Adults?
This is another "cool" concept movie.  Essentially imagine a world with no humans, where animals (both predators and prey) live together in a modern North Americanish way. Some homage is paid to film classic The Godfather, and the choice of sloths as DMV employees will entertain the adults throughout the movie.  The movie features the voice talents of Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Idris Elba, J.K. Simmons, and Shakira.

Best Parts of the Movie
There is relatable messaging about getting along, preconceived notions, and some good teachable moments you can talk to your kids about afterwards.  In looking around the theatre I'd say the kids that were most engaged by the film were around ages six to nine, so there's a bit of a sweet spot there. I can see this movie becoming a part of school curriculum.

Worst Parts of the Movie
Maybe I read too many amazing reviews before we saw this movie and it spoiled it for me, but I was disappointed in this film.  It was looonggg for a children's movie (1 hour and 48 minutes) and did not hold either Molly and Jack's attention all the way through (granted they've both said they enjoyed it). An adult we attended with admitedly fell asleep for a few minutes in the middle where the movie dragged.  There are certain plot points and moments during the movie where Molly got really scared and hid under a sweater, whereas Jack remained unconcerned about "bad guys and scariness, through the entire flick.  I know this is irrelevant to the plot of the movie, especially when I'm already complaining about length, but so much thought was put into the Zootopia world, yet couldn't they address what the meat eaters consume instead of other animals, are they all vegan?

Overall Rating
I would rate this movie 3.5/5.  It's watchable, particularly if you have kids aged six to nine or ten, but I don't think it's quite worthy of the Frozen record smashing we're seeing here. All of that being said, seeing a slightly longer movie on a rainy March Break week might not be the worst thing to entertain.

To read my review of Kung Fu Panda 3 click here.

To read my review of Good Dinosaur click here.

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Good - Movie Review, The Good Dinosaur

Sunday night was movie night, so we decided to see if any of Chris or my childhood obsessions with dinosaurs could possibly rub off on the minions, cause how awesome would that be?  We decided it was time to check out Pixar's 2015 release of The Good Dinosaur.

The Good Dinosaur Promo ad Courtesy of Pixar Wikia

Movie Review: The Good Dinosaur

What's in it for the Kids?
This movie is a fairly predictable coming of age story where runt of the litter Dino Arlo tries to face his fears, and find his place in the world and on his family farm.  Along his journey he finds an unlikely friend in a human boy, who essentially acts as a human version of a pet dog.

What's in it for the Adults?
The concept of this movie is pretty cool, especially for dinophile adults. Basically it explores an alternative universe of what would have happened had the asteroid it is believed to have destroyed the dinosaurs took a slightly different path.  In this re imagined worlds many dinosaurs are farmers and ranchers, with less evolved cavemen humans co-existing as feral animals. As a stickler for theorized accuracy it bothered me enormously that the aerial view of earth was not presented as Pangea, but as current day multiple continents. Voice talents of Jeffrey Wright, Frances McDormand and Steve Zahn make things a little more entertaining for older viewers.

Best Parts of the Movie
There is some good messaging along the lines of "don't judge a book by its cover".  As Pixar's 16th film has the fantastic artwork they've become known for continues in ways visuals that are innovative, clever, and at times breathtaking.  My favourite scene in the film artistically involves the introduction of the T-Rex characters (any more info then this would qualify as a spoiler).  The movie features relatable themes like the importance of family, friendship, loss, bravery, and the challenges of discovering your own strengths and weaknesses.

Worst Parts of the Movie
This is a story that we've all seen before, but likely the kids won't be as sick of it as the adults. SPOILER ALERT: In a typical children's story plot device, Arlo's adventure begins as a result of the death of his father.  This particular scene could be scary for little kids and eye-rolling level cliche to the adults.  Molly spent a good portion of the movie talking about "how she'll need to find a new daddy when Chris dies", naturally he was thrilled.

Overall Rating
I would rate this movie 3/5.  It's watchable, but nothing I'd ever purchase for regular viewing rotation and neither kid has asked to watch it again or to own it.  If you can see it for free, if your kids are crazy about dinosaurs, or you stumble across it on TV or online check it out.

To read my review of Kung Fu Panda 3 click here.

To read about villains and the ways they fit into a child's moral development of black and white issues click here.


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