Well, everyone, today, we review a film that was adapted from a children’s book, apparently from 1955, and was written by children’s author Crockett Johnson. This film version was also directed by former founder of the former Blue Sky Studios, Carlos Saldanha. Starring Zachary Levi as the main title character, let’s discuss the movie version of Harold & The Purple Crayon.

Plot: When a man with a magic purple crayon named Harold (Zachary Levi) begins hearing the voice of the person that created him, and his friends, Moose (Lil Rel Howery), and Porcupine (Tanya Reynolds), they decide, with the help of Harold’s purple crayon, to head from their fantasy world, and into the real world (aka our world). With the help of new friends such as Terri (Zooey Deschanel), and her son, Mel (Benjamin Bottani), will they be able to find the mysterious voice that Harold’s been looking for all along?

Well, I will go ahead, and confess that part of me was on the fence on seeing this newer family film after hearing a lot of not so great things about it. However, after hearing positive things about it from one, or two other people that I know, I decided to give it a go. That being said, is Harold & The Purple Crayon as bad as many people make it out to be? Well, no. It was at least okay, I’ll give it that. So, what good things were there in this movie? Well, there was some nice comic book like animation throughout some of the film, especially in the beginning. Plus, having Harold’s two animal friends, Moose, and Porcupine, each turn human once they entered the human world is a nice touch. Honestly, if the filmmakers had tried to make those two remain animals, and talk even in the real world, it might have somehow looked corny, and downright stupid. So it was probably for the best that those two characters were handled the way that they were in the end. Additionally, there was also some good action in this film as well. Also, the setup, though it probably could have been executed better, ended up being very creative as well. There were also some very emotional, and heartwarming moments as well, one moment especially that occurred right near the end of this film. The acting from Zachary Levi, Zooey Deschanel, and the rest of the cast was also very good. And another thing! For those of us that have seen this film, how could we not admire Harold’s determination to find the voice that keeps speaking to him, and narrating the events of his life? One final positive element for this film is that what this films lacks in a good story, if makes up for with plenty of really funny lines, and funny scenes.

Still, this adaptation of Harold & The Purple Crayon does have its fair share of issues as well. First of all, Harold, the main character, almost feels like a carbon copy of someone like Shazam from the newer Shazam movies. I’m not sure if maybe that’s because of the fact that both characters were played by the same person, Zachary Levi, or some other reason. Either way, Harold had the potential to likely be a better character, and the filmmakers didn’t seem to take as much advantage of that as they probably could have. Same goes for the villain in this film, some of the characters in general, and the story overall. Again, the story isn’t bad. Still, it had the potential to be better. Even the climax felt rather lackluster, and a little too fast-paced. Also, what was with some of the tragic moments dragging on a little long at times? Finally, though some of the ending was good, and heartfelt, there were other times when it felt just okay.

And that’s my review for Harold & The Purple Crayon. Is it as bad as a lot of people are making it out to be? No! In fact, there is enjoyment to be had in this movie. Still, there is a balance between the good moments, and the rather tougher ones. I would say that if you want to see Harold & The Purple crayon, see it for the many comedic moments in this film, and some rather heartwarming moments, then it should be worth your time. Just be prepared to see a film with a story that could have been stronger, despite being directed by a well-known director like Carlos Saldanha, the founder of the former Blue Sky Studios.

Final Grade: C+

Everyone, today, we are going to review a family-friendly film that was inspired by true events. So now, let’s discuss My Penguin Friend!

Plot: When a heartbroken Brazilian fisherman (Jean Reno) rescues a lone penguin from an oil spill, he, and his wife (Adriana Barraza) decide to take the creature under their wings. Now, will he especially be able to keep the penguin, whom he names Dimdin, safe from potential harm in the future?

Okay, first of all, it is nice that we have family films like this one. Someone recently described My Penguin Friend as “touching, compassionate, and tender.” You know what? This film really does have those qualities. So much so that it’s a shame that this film hasn’t been more popular. Why is it that movies like Twisters, and Deadpool & Wolverine, for instance, have much more popularity than this family film here? Okay, am I saying that My Penguin Friend has to make around $200-300 million at the box office? No! However, that being said, this film deserves more attention than the very little that it’s been getting thus far. I mean after seeing a family film like Harold & The Purple Crayon last night (and yes, that review will be coming soon), I’m very shocked, and surprised that that movie is even performing even moderately better than My Penguin Friend. With all that said, why does this newer film, that’s based on a true story, deserve to be a must see? Well, to begin, there’s the fact that My Penguin Friend is based on a true story. In an age where a lot of those movies seem to be more mature stories that seem to be a little more accessible to adults than to kids, it’s nice that a company like Roadside Attractions makes a film that is, for the more part, accessible to kids, teens, and adults all equally. Yes, even if people that have owned pets may be the ones to appreciate My Penguin Friend more so, even those that haven’t owned one may still learn some valuable lessons from the film. Also, what makes this film touching, and the other good qualities is how much main character, Joao Pereira de Souza, ends up changing after enduring hardship for quite a few years following a tragic incident that he went through, and then adopting a penguin sometime after that. Then, to see him grow as a person, it just comes to show how much having a pet, be it a dog, a cat, or, in rare cases like this one, a penguin, or other animals for that matter, can most likely help people out in life. Additionally, how could you not love the relationship between Joao, and Dimdin, the penguin? I mean the way that he takes Dimdin in his care upon meeting him immediately, and calls him his friend, instead of just his pet, wow, that’s another thing to like about the character in the movie, and, I’m sure, even Joao in real life. Also, how could you not love the rest of the characters? They are fun, likable, and ones that you will definitely want to hang out with the more you see them in this movie, and get to know them. Who knows, maybe more people will want to go to Brazil, and possibly get to know that culture a little more? You got me! Another thing to like was the score, especially in the beginning, that was composed by Fernando Velazquez. First off, his score knew when to be uplifting, be sad in the sad moments, and more. Plus, for those of us who saw the trailer for this film, how could we not appreciate part of Velazquez’ score both in the trailer, and in this film? Finally, if you want a live-action film that’s not only based on a true story, but also feels heartwarming, uplifting, compelling, and a film that that truly gives you a good feeling by the end, as well as provides some valuable lessons to take away afterwards, then all the more reason to see this film.

And that’s my review for My Penguin Friend. Truly, it is original films like this one that need to be released more, and more, instead of mainly sequels, prequels, and remakes for the most part. Yeah, after seeing heartwarming films like My Penguin Friend, and Arthur The King earlier this year, I can say that it is films like these that we need more of. My Penguin Friend is a lovely film that, though it has some dark, as well as sad, and depressing moments, is an overall really touching, and feel good movie that will make you want to likely see it again. The characters are likable, and ones that may make you wish that you got to see them in real life. All in all, if you haven’t seen My Penguin Friend, I highly recommend it. You will be glad that you did, and probably wish it was more popular in the end. So yeah, go see it, and see what you think!

Final Grade: A+

And now, on to Despicable Me 2!

Plot: Sometime after the events of the first film, Gru (Steve Carrell) is summoned by Silas Ramsbottom (Steve Coogan), and the Anti-Villain League (AVL) to find a criminal mastermind that stole a mutagen from the Artic Circle by the name of PX-41, which could cause trouble when tested on others. With the help of agent Lucy Wilde (Kristen Wiig), can Gru find the culprit, bring him to justice, and prevent the mutagen from being used on others like the Minions?

So, did this sequel improve over the first film, or did it fall lower than the first film? Well, I’ll be honest with you guys, this was one of those rare to few times where the sequel improved over the first Despicable Me in quite a few ways. First of all, Gru’s character development was better improved this time around. Not only that, but his relationship with Margo, Edith, and Agnes was better developed. He, and agent Lucy Wilde also had great chemistry onscreen as well. And as for the villain, who was called El Macho (who was voiced by Benjamin Bratt), wow, talk about an improvement from Vector. Okay, that’s not to say that Vector was a badly developed villain by any means. It’s just that El Macho seemed to be the more memorable one of the two. Honestly, one could likely argue that, as far as animated sequels go, El Macho may as well have been the Lord Shen of the Despicable Me franchise, but the difference being that El Macho may not have been as menacing as Shen, but more memorable than Vector, and had a mix of villainy, and comedy combined together, and working perfectly. Also, how could you not like El Macho’s pet chicken, Pollito? Additionally, it was cool that this film ended up acting like a spy type of movie. Honestly, since there was a little bit of a James Bond type of element at some points in the first film, it worked really well in this sequel. What’s more is that this film, overall, works as a comedy. Not only that, but, even though some of the humor may feel childish, there’s still adult charm to be found too, even from the Minions. Oh, and some of the comedy is also brilliant at times too. Finally, the animation seemed to improve to a degree this time around as well.

Honestly, if you were to ask what faults that Despicable Me 2, they would be that, one, there were one, or two newer characters from this sequel that may have acted a little over the top, and seemed to grind on your nerves. The other thing is that there were a times when Gru felt upset, and frustrated about certain situations, and handled them in an unhealthy way, by taking them out on other people. Okay, it’s okay to be upset, no doubt. But taking it out on other people, and being a jerk to others?!? Yeah, never the best idea.

And that’s my review for Despicable Me 2. It is definitely an improvement from the first film, despite a couple glaring cults. If you haven’t seen the second film, then I highly recommend it. You will most definitely have a a fun time. So yeah, go see Despicable Me 2, and see what you think!

Final Grade: A-

Well, everyone, today, we dive into the animation world, specifically the world of Universal/Illumination Studios. Oh, but that’s not all. We aren’t just reviewing any animated film from this film library, no, no. This particular animated film, that we review today, is one that started this animation film library over a decade ago. So now, in honor of that, and, of course, the fact that there is a forth film in this franchise as of recently, let’s discuss the one that started it all for Universal/Illumination Studios, the one, and only Despicable Me.

Plot: Gru (Steve Carrell) is a villain in league eight another scientist, and some minions of his. Throughout his career as a villain, he, and his minions have stolen very important objects, including a pyramid from Egypt. But when he, and his followers plot to steal the moon, while also reluctantly agreeing to take three orphan girls (Miranda Cosgrove, Dana Geier, and Elsie Fisher respectively), the question remains as to whether or not he will continue in his devious ways, or have a change of heart.

Well, I will give the film these things. There is a lot of good comedy in this film that works very well. Also, who doesn’t like Steve Carrell? I mean he is hilarious, and, therefore, memorable in basically anything that he performs in. Voicing Gru in this film is no exception. And, come on, even though the Minions may be childish in this film, and in the other films that they’re in, who doesn’t still love those characters as well, especially when they still have some adult charm to each of their characters as well? Honestly, I can see why plenty of merchandise has been sold for those particular characters. The soundtrack was also very nice too, with some catchy tunes here, and there, along with a nice score by Pharrell Williams, and Heitor Pereira. Oh, and the girls, Margo, Edith, and Agnes, how could you not like how adorable they are, and their charm, and humor as well? The relationship between them, and Gru is good too. Last, but not least, as far as the pros go, this film certainly provided good lessons such as not letting pride get in the way of love, and care for other people in your life.

So, with all of these pros that I mentioned, are there any cons to it? Well, there are a few, yes. First of all, the storyline felt a little rushed at times, and seemed unable to make things like Gru’s character development not reach its full potential. Let me put it to you all this way. I heard quite a few YouTube animation fans compare both Despicable Me, and DreamWorks’ Megamind (which was released the same year as this movie), and say that Megamind’s character, and character arc was done better. I still have yet to revisit Megamind, but from what I remembered of that film, it would seem that likely was true. But now I need to watch that film again to know for sure. Anyway, aside from Gru, his adopted daughters, and the minions, the rest of the characters are just okay. Sure, Vector was a somewhat decent villain, and had some hilarious moments. You got to admit his fortress was really cool too. Aside from those elements, he was just an okay villain. Finally, there’s the animation. It was okay. But come one, did the animators really need to make the arms, and legs of many of the characters that skinny? Seriously, what was that about? The animators seemed to make a bad habit of that. Thankfully, they’ve gotten at least a little better about that.

And that’s my review for Despicable Me. Well, it was the first film of this library. For what it was, it was not a bad film. Yes, it could have been better. And hey, at least Universal/Illumination would get even a little bit better as they progressed with the films that they would come out with down the road. I would say definitely still see Despicable Me since there’s still heart to it, it has a Looney Tunes vibe to it, it has very comedy in it, and things like that. And hey, at least this film was a very good practice round for future films that would be made from this studio.

Final Grade: B

And now, ladies, and gentlemen, today, we review a comedy that stars Channing Tatum, Scarlett Johansson, and Woody Harrelson. Presenting to you all my review of Fly Me To The Moon!

Plot: During the 1960s, when the Space Race occurred, a relationship between NASA director (Scarlett Johansson) that’s in charge of the Apollo 11, and a marketing specialist forms. This happens in order to attempt to fix NASA’s public image by faking a “back-up” fake moon landing, with the help of a con artist (Woody Harrelson) Will the plan work in the end?

Well, I have to tell you guys this! Fly Me To The Moon is a really fun film. First of all, this film is a great example of how you do a parody, and do it right. I mean to do a parody of a real life event such as the first astronaut to land on the moon, it worked really well. Oh, and did I forget to mention that there are plenty of good laughs, and jokes that help make this movie even more fun? The movie also does a fantastic job of capturing the period of the 1960s, with its music, composed by Daniel Pemberton in this case. The characters are also great, and likable. Channing Tatum, and Scarlett Johansson as Cole Davis, Kelly/Winnie Jones respectively, they work great together. Not only is the relationship well established, but the two have excellent chemistry every time they are on screen together. What’s more is that their relationship is well-written, and can likely be relatable to any relationship in real life. And man, Ray Romano, and Woody Harrelson as Henry Smalls, and Moe Berkus respectively, they both play very interesting roles, especially the latter character. In addition to all of this, the premise was very interesting, and may make you ask some very interesting questions in regard to the whole deal of landing on the moon afterwards. One other thing to mention is that, when you learn why some of the characters act the way that they do, especially the main ones, it will probably serve as a reminder to not be so quick to judge people by their actions, but still call them out on them when they’re making wrong decisions.

With all those things mentioned, what weaknesses does this film have? Well, for one, some of the characters didn’t seem to feel as developed as they could have been. I mean they’re developed decently well. Some of that just seemed to have potential to be a little better. This also leads me to the other flaw of this film. That being that the ending, and characters could have maybe come around full circle more so than they did in the end.

And that’s my review for Fly Me To The Moon. Despite there being a couple flaws in this film, Fly Me To The Moon is a fun film with a creative premise, fun characters, and so much more. If you like films with people like Tatum, and Johansson, then all the more reason to this film. It’s just disappointing that Fly Me To The Moon didn’t perform as well as other films that came out around the same time have not been. So, if you want a comedy like this one, go see it, and see what you think!

Final Grade: A-

And now, in honor of new Twister sequel, Twisters, getting released recently, we review its predecessor, the one, and only, Twister!

Plot: Years after a tragic family incident involving a tornado in Oklahoma, Jo Harding (Helen Hunt) decides to become a meteorologist who is obsessed with tornadoes at this point. She figures out some devices that could potentially warn of weather patterns in advance before tornadoes occur. Will her invention work, or will it turn out that tornadoes truly will remain unpredictable?

Okay, first of all, I’m going to say that it’s been years since I had last seen this original Twister film. Quite honestly, had it not been for the newer sequel getting released as of recently, I’m not sure when I would have gotten around to rewatching this film again. You got me! Watching this film again many, many years later, though I had remembered some of it, I will also admit that I had also forgotten a lot of the movie as well. Well, also, after watching it again for the first time in a long while, I’m just going to say that the score is really great. I was surprised to hear that Mark Mancina composed the score for this film. Wow, he does just as great of a job here, if not better than when he worked on more family-oriented films like Tarzan, Brother Bear, Moana, and films like those. Truth be told, the areas where his score truly shines are during scenes that involve people driving, or when there are dangerous action scenes occurring. Additionally, for the acting, we have Helen Hunt, Jami Gertz, Cary Elwes, and, of course, the late Bill Paxton included in this cast. I will say that I was surprised to forget about Cary Elwes being in this film, and to play the role that he did in this film. Anyway, the action is also really intense. Well, since this is an action, as well as what is also considered a disaster film, that’s likely to be expected, wouldn’t you say? In addition to all of this, the way that the story is structured is surprisingly very creative. I mean yes, one should expect even an action film, or a disaster one to be creative to one degree, or another, that’s for sure. Still, Twister ends up being very creative with how the story is set up, how resolutions to problems are solved in this film, how characters are handled, you name it. The characters are also very well-written as well, especially the main ones, and a character who may as well be a borderline between a downright jerk, and villain. Some of them served as proof that it’s life for people to be complicated. This leads to another beneficial aspect of this film, the relationships, and how they are handled. Let me tell you, the relationships are well handled, even when some of them, let’s just say, go through rough patches. Finally, as far as positives go, Twister provides some excellent lessons in how people are complicated, not everyone is always honest with themselves how about their feelings of people, or situations overall, letting go of the past, especially the tragedies of your past, is really important, learning to appreciate those things which are good, and pure in your life rather than dwelling on what goes wrong, or on what you don’t have in life, and lessons like those.

But are there any negatives? Well, the one thing is that there are one, or two scenes where the language was a little coarse. Thankfully, nothing that made this film like it should have been given an R-rating, or anything like that. Still, there’s no denying that those couple scenes were definitely unnecessary. The other thing is that there were a couple conflicts, and situations that probably could have been handled a little better.

And that’s my review for Twister. It is a very creative film, and a really good one. It has characters that stand out well, a really good score, some exciting, and tense moments that will undoubtedly keep you on the edge of your seat. Not to mention some of the lessons that can be taken from this film. If you haven’t seen Twister, then make it a point to, whether you plan to also see the recent stand alone sequel, or not. Maybe you’ll find additional things to like about it than I did, but that’s up for you to decide. Anyway, yes, see this film, and see what you think!

Final Grade: A-

Alright, everyone, today, we review a film that depicts an aspect of the settling of the Old West, and was supposed to have two parts come out this summer, but with the second part being delayed, due to the first film flopping at the box office thus far. Oh well! Well, for now’s let’s discuss the first part that was for sure released, Horizon: An American Saga.

Plot: The film depicts the settlement of a frontier town in the San Pedro Valley by the name of Horizon. It follows three families, and their adventures that occurred following an Apache raid that was led by Apache leader Pionsenay, causing to scatter to different parts of the Old West.

Well, I will say this, Horizon: An American Saga Part 1 is definitely a very good film to watch for the historical aspect. I mean if you want to see a film that does well with depicting what life was like for those that grew up during the settlement of the American frontier, the hardships that occurred in the process, and more, those are aspects that will make you enjoy this film. This movie also has excellent acting. I mean for one, come on, who doesn’t enjoy Kevin Costner in just about everything he’s been in, be it Field Of Dreams, Dances With Wolves, For Love Of The Game, you name it? In addition to him, you also have Sienna Miller, Sam Worthington, Will Patton, and more. Each of their performances were really great. And the music by John Debney was great too. He truly did great with capturing life in the mid-19th century with the music that he composed. I will also say that it was interesting that he went from composing from a more family-oriented film like The Garfield Movie to a more adult film like this one in such a short amount of time. The movie also was not afraid to shy away from things like Americans being raided by some neighboring Native American tribes, the fact that prostitution occurred even during this time period, and so much more. So that begs the question, was Horizon: An American Saga too violent even for an R-rated film? Did this film also end up border lining on the side of being a little too sad, and depressing? Maybe! Maybe not! I mean chances are that’s how life was even back then. Plus, life is not always going to be a happy ending for any of us. That being said, should this film have aired more on the side of being a bittersweet kind of a film? Yeah, that is a question that is in fact that is up for debate for those of us that have seen Horizon: An American Saga.

Still, on the other hand, did this movie need to be around three hours? And another thing! Horizon: An American Saga may have had too many characters that it centered around. I mean that may have worked better with a fictional faith-based film like God’s Not Dead, since there was a better purpose, and went along well with the themes, and story overall of that film. Here, however, going that direction seemed to cause the movie to be more hard to follow. It also made it more hard to feel invested in the characters. Maybe it may have worked better if this ended up being a TV series, instead of a movie? I wish I could say for sure. Reasons such as these might partially, if not fully, factored into why this film didn’t perform too well in theaters. Could this film going up against a popular family film like Despicable Me 4 the same weekend also served as a cause for this film not performing all that well? Possibly! Still, putting even that aside, having a movie with too many characters, and likely having a more difficult time following the story of this film really seemed to take away from how much this film was, or could have been, enjoyable. Also, this film may have felt a little too sad, and depressing. Would that have been the case if this film had been released 40, 50, maybe 60 years ago? I wish I could say for sure. Well, in some ways, maybe it was gold that they showed the brutality of the violence that occurred during this time period, and how difficult life was for people living during this time period. On the other hand, however, is it possible that maybe the filmmakers went a little overboard with all that? I definitely would be curious to hear feedback on that, especially from those of you that have seen this film.

And that’s my review for Horizon: An American Saga. Though this was a good film for it’s historical aspects, the outstanding performances of all those who played their respective roles in this film, beautiful musical score, and things like that, I think I have found myself enjoying films like Sound Of Hope: The Story Of Possum Trot, Inside Out 2, and films like those a little more. All to say, people definitely will enjoy it for what good things that were in this film. Still, I personally might not revisit this film as often as other films that I have revisited in the past, or may revisit ion the future, regardless of the genre. I would say still see it, and go into with an open mind. Maybe some of you will enjoy it more than I did. And if you do, please let me know why, and do so with a civil discussion. So yeah, let me advise you to still see Horizon: An American Saga: Part One, and see what you think!

Final Grade: C

Everyone, today, we review a film that was based on true events, and was released by Angel Studios. And wow, how could we not love the fact that this film was released on July 4th, just like last year’s Sound Of Freedom? Well, let’s now discuss Sound Of Hope: The Story Of Possum Trot, shall we?

Plot: The film is based on a true story, and it follows the lives of Reverend Martin (Demetrius Grosse), and his wife, Donna (Nika King), from a local Baptist church in Possum Trot, Texas. The couple decides to take on the challenge of doing the impossible, and adopting seventy-seven foster children. Did their work prove successful? Most importantly, did the couple, and their church, succeed in showing love, and compassion to all of the children that they brought into their lives?

Wow, what an incredible film! First of all, why have neither this film, or Sight made even remotely as much last year’s Sound Of Freedom did? Seriously, this film especially deserves much more recognition than it’s gotten thus far! Grrr! Well, second, Sound Of Hope: The Story Of Possum Trot is a really great story. I mean to learn about the small town of Possum Trot, what a great opportunity this film provides for that. And wow, the fact that this film shows what an incredible thing that the reverend, his family, and his congregation did by deciding to adopt so many foster kids? Holy cow! These are the kinds of events, and miracles, that need to be talked about more in history, especially since things like those are touching, and, more importantly, bring a smile to God’s face above all else. This movie did well with portraying how difficult raising a foster child can be, people obeying the will of God, even when it felt difficult, and/or made no sense from the human perspective, and so much more. The movie also did well with briefly showing the hypocrisy of some leaders in the church as well. Well done to the filmmakers on those elements as well! Additionally, Sound Of Hope is excellent at developing all the characters that were a part of this event in history. Now, how many of these characters were real, and how many fiction, I’m not sure. Still, the characters that we had in this film were each really great, stood out in every single scene that they were in, major, or minor ones, and were genuine. Finally, if people don’t fully appreciate all the good elements of this film that I mentioned, hopefully they’ll at least appreciate the love, care, and compassion that Reverend Martin, his wife, Donna, their biological children, and, in time, the rest of their church, began to show for all the foster children that needed love, and care.

And that’s my review for Sound Of Freedom: The Story Of Possum Trot. It truly goes without saying that this film, just like The Chosen, Sight, Sound Of Freedom, and other films, and shows that were made by Angel Studios, it’s a miracle that such a studio exists, and that these films are being made for the mainstream media. Truly, if Angel Studios continues to make these films, then hopefully more people will become more, and more interested in seeing these particular films. Anyway, Sound Of Hope: The Story Of Possum Trot, though it has heavy subjects matters, is a really great film from beginning to end. It serves as an example of what true love for God, and others, looks like, without coming off as preachy, and is a must-see film as a result. If you haven’t seen Sound Of Hope: The Story Of Possum Trot, then make it a point to. It will go without saying that you’ll be glad that you did see it in the end.

Well, everyone, today, we now review the sequel to the very Disney/Pixar film that will be reaching its 10-year anniversary next year. Now that we’ve discussed 2015’s Inside Out , let’s discuss it’s sequel, Inside Out 2.

Plot: Two years after moving to San Francisco, Riley Anderson (Kensington Tallman), now a teenager, gets an opportunity to go to hockey camp, along with her friends, Bree (Sumayyah Nuriddin-Green), and Grace (Grace Lu). Not only that, but she also gets to play with a popular hockey Nick’e from another high school by the name of Val Ortiz (Lilimar). While at the camp, the question remains, will Riley continue to thrive in hockey? Will she continue to maintain her friendship with her two best friends, while making new ones with Val, and her team? How will things turn out for Riley in the end?

As we know, Inside Out 2 has been breaking records since being released a month to month and a a half ago. That being said, has it been worth it, or has this new Disney/Pixar film become overhyped? Well, I will just tell you all this, I went into this sequel not having too high of expectations, especially with most of Disney’s films not being quite the best these days, only to come out of this film feeling wowed, and overly surprised. Inside Out 2 is truly a surprise from beginning to end. With that said, is Disney back in the game yet? I won’t say one way, or another yet. However, I will say that after seeing Inside Out 2, let’s just say that part of me is now feeling a little more hopeful that some of Disney’s upcoming films like Moana 2, the CGI prequel to The Lion King, Mufasa: The Lion King, and next year’s Disney/Pixar film, Elio, will probably be better films than we might have originally hoped as of these days. But again, we’ll have to see, eh? But now, let’s return to Inside Out 2, shall we? So what is it about this film that has made it really popular for the past month and a half? Well, for one, things like the world building of Riley’s mind, and her character, overall, being expanded upon. I will also say that I watched my friend, the Lawn Gnome on YouTube. Basically, he’s a YouTuber who has video segments on his channel, including a segment called Out Of The Vault. That segment started off with him just reviewing a film Walt Disney Animation Studios once a month, which eventually turned whim reviewing either a a film from that library, or a Studio Ghibli film, or a Disney/Pixar film once a month. For those of you interested in such videos, you should go check it out. Anyway, something that he pointed out in that video was that we get to see more of the character of Riley herself in this sequel. You know what? He makes a good point, because we really do. Well, not to say that Riley wasn’t well developed in the first film, because she was. Still, yeah, it’s possible that the emotion characters like Joy, and Sadness had a little more of the spotlight in the first film. In this sequel, however, even though we get new emotions this time around like Ennui (which apparently means boredom), Embarrassment, Jealousy, and especially Anxiety, who really seemed to play a major role for Riley in this sequel, not only do we get to see those emotions developed, along with more development for Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust as well, but we also get also get to have more scenes with Riley herself as well. Let me just tell you all that it works brilliantly well, and all within an hour and a a half. What a miracle, considering that having multiple side/supporting characters in an animated film that has only that long of a running period hasn’t always seemed to work quite nearly as well as one would like. Well, again, in this case, it did. What’s more is that this movie tackles some very mature topics, especially for things that teenagers go through, and it seems to do that better than say 2022’s Turning Red (which, of course, was also done by Disney/Pixar) did. As for things like the score, even though we had a different composer this time, with Andrea Datzman, instead of Michael Giacchino, it was still nice to see some of his score used from the first film, and incorporated into this one. The animation was also great, maybe just as good, if not better than the first Inside Out. However, what this film does beautifully is tackle its topics well. I was surprised by how beautifully it all was done. This film did an excellent job of tackling themes of jealousy, comparing oneself (someone recently pointed out how comparison is the thief of joy), anxiety, and how people will often think that they’re not good enough at things in life, or that someone is not good enough as a person period. And it was executed in a really creative way, specifically in the new emotion character, Anxiety. That begs the question, does Anxiety seem to serve as more a villain, or anti-heroine in this film? Definitely just something good to consider, that’s for sure. Because of this, even if non-Christians may not see some potential underlying Christian undertones (or, might they, miraculously?), Christians probably will. Both Inside Out, and Inside Out 2 could possibly serve as modern day parables (and I bring up that term because of the fact that Jesus spoke in parables several times while on Earth, and when the four Gospels of the New Testament were being recorded). Now, am I saying that the writers of both films were Christians? Well, no, but only God knows for sure. Even so, there are plenty elements, and themes from Inside Out 2 to be taken from a Christian point of view, questions that can be asked with aspects of this film, and more. Because of all this, I can see why Inside Out 2 may yet reach near the box office numbers of films like Avatar 1, if not quite to that point.

And that’s my review for Disney/Pixar’s Inside Out 2. There is no doubt that kids will for sure love this film for its creative characters like the emotions, the humor, and more. However, teenagers, and adults, especially the latter demographic, will enjoy it for its relatability to main character, Riley, its complex themes, and more. Inside Out 2 is definitely a great film for having great character development, a surprisingly well-written story, great animation, and themes of this film that can be seen through a Christian lenses (which, Christians will likely appreciate that aspect more than non-Christians, but still). So, if you haven’t seen Inside Out 2, definitely do so. This is one of those rare films that Christians should take a non-Christian friend, or two, or more, and then maybe discuss it with them afterwards. Yeah, probably saying a lot, yes? Either way, see Inside Out 2, see if you like it just as much, if not more, than the first film, and yeah, see what you think! I can guarantee that you’ll have a blast with this sequel to one degree, or another either way.

Final Grade: A+

Everyone, today, in honor of the newest Disney/Pixar sequel being released, we review its predecessor that will be reaching its 10-year anniversary next year. The one, and only, Inside Out!

Plot: When Riley (Kaitlyn Dias), and her parents (Diane Lane, Kyle MacLachlan) move from a small town in Minnesota to San Francisco, California, Riley’s in her head that consist of Joy (Amy Poehler), Sadness (Phyllis Smith), Anger (Lewis Black), Disgust (Mindy Kaling), and Fear (Bill Hader) begin to try to work in her head to try to make her feel different emotions about the move. However, Joy is determined to help make Riley feel joyful, and happy about the situation. Now, will Riley end up feeling happy the whole time, or will all the other emotions end up going to her head, and make her feel mixed emotions about leaving Minnesota, and going to California?

Based on the above description, it may sound like this is a movie in which a human is being operated like a robot by characters in her head that are emotions, yes? Well, though it may potentially come off that way on the surface, it’s more that this movie shows, in a surprisingly creative way, that humans have emotions, be it happiness, sadness, you name it. Director Pete Doctor makes the decision to make each of these emotions into characters. And wow, does it work beautifully. Not only is this film brilliantly executed, but it is probably one of the most well-written films in the Disney/Pixar library. I mean it does well with balancing out its happy moments, it’s more sad, and serious moments, and things like that. The world building is also memorable with there being islands in Riley’s head like Goofball Island, Family Island, you name it. Each emotion also has a personality, besides the fact that Joy tries to be the joyful one all the time, Disgust the same thing, and more. The emotion characters are also really hilarious at times, especially Anger, who , ironically, may yet be one of most hilarious of the other emotion characters. The humans are also really great characters too, especially Riley herself. It was also great to catch glimpses here, and there, of emotion characters in the heads of other humans, such as Riley’s parents, for example. One other thing in regard to the characters is that some secondary characters, like Bing Bong, were memorable too. It was also great to see film director Pete Doctor, and score composer Michael Giacchino working together for another Disney/Pixar film after doing so six years before with Up. Speaking of which, isn’t it interesting that both films end up up covering mature themes, while also having a lighthearted side to each of them as well? The animation is also gorgeous, especially when we get to see the inside of other people’s heads, especially Riley’s. But really, what makes Inside Out stand out from many of Disney/Pixar’s entries, are the mature subjects, particularly the whole deal of having to cope with joy, pain, and so much more either at the same time, or at various moments in life. It’s also interesting to see a character like Joy act like both a heroine, and an anti-heroine. Yeah, don’t believe me!?! Let’s just say that you’d be surprised by how her character is handled at certain points in this film. Anyway, Inside Out can serve as both a fable, and metaphor to real life. See, as I’m sure many of us know, many of us, especially as Christians, seem to think that we need to try to be joyful, and act like we’re okay every single moment of every single day when, in reality, we may sometimes feel down, feel brokenhearted, and things like those. First of all, I like how true Pastors have learned to counter that argument, and it’s good that this movie countered that argument in very creative ways. However, what really makes this movie be a classic film is how each character, be it human ones, or even the the emotion characters themselves, learn how to truly grow, and mature physically, and especially emotionally as characters, characters like Riley, Joy, and Sadness in particular. Finally, this film also serves as an excellent reminder that there truly is a time to be happy, and joyful, a time to be sad, a time to be angry, you name it.

And that’s my review for Inside Out. Yes, it may balance out both its comedic moments, and its dramatic ones. Still, it covers some heavy subjects while also doing a great job of making it a fun film for kids in some ways, as well as teens, and adults in other ways. Truly, there will be something for any person at any age to enjoy in Inside Out. So, if you haven’t seen Inside Out, then know that it is one of those films that is for sure a must see. And if you find that somewhat hard to believe simply because this is an animated film, then trust me when I say that by the end, you’ll be pleasantly surprised, and may most likely find yourself than some of Pixar’s films that came out prior to it, and likely even the ones that were released after it. For reasons such as these, I can see why it snagged the Oscar for Best Animated Feature that following winter, or spring, in 2016. All to say, if you still have yet to see this Disney/Pixar film, known as Inside Out, 9-10 years later, then make it a point to see it ASAP, and see what you think!

Final Grade: A+