Olaf's Frozen Adventure (2017)

Title: Olaf's Frozen Adventure
Rating: G
Run Time: 22 minutes
Release Date: October 27, 2017
Genre(s): Animation, Short Film
Production Co.: Walt Disney Pictures
Director: Kevin Deters, Stevie Wermers
Starring: Josh Gad, Idina Menzel, Kristen Bell


Who would I recommend this to?
Hardcore Frozen fans.

What is this about?
Olaf sets out to find a Christmas tradition for Anna and Elsa!

When would be a good time to watch this?
When you have a half hour to kill during the Christmas season.

Where does it take place?
Arendelle, Norway.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I like Olaf, sooo...

How did I like this?
It was okay. They really played up Elsa's emoness and Olaf's cluelessness. But it made me cry. WTF. A 20 minute Christmas short made me cry! Dammit, Disney!

Have you seen Olaf's Frozen Adventure? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

Decorating Disney: Holiday Magic (2017)

Title: Decorating Disney: Holiday Magic
Rating: TV-PG
Run Time: 42 minutes
Release Date: December 18, 2017
Genre(s): Documentary
Production Co.: T Group
Starring: Whoopi Goldberg, Paul-Dean Martin




Who would I recommend this to?
Disney fanatics!

What is this about?
How Disneyland and Disney World get decorated (overnight!) for the Christmas season.

When would be a good time to watch this?
When you feel like getting into the holiday spirit.

Where does it take place?
Disneyland and Disney World.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because I am a Disney fanatic and absolutely love the parks at Christmas time!

How did I like this?
I almost cried. I love Disney Holiday Magic that much. I did want a full hour about the Haunted Mansion though. And it made made me want to immediately book another Disney trip even though I just got back from two.

Have you seen Decorating Disney: Holiday Magic? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

How Dogs Got Their Shapes (2016)

Title: How Dogs Got Their Shapes
Rating: TV-PG
Run Time: 44 Minutes
Release Date: April 17, 2016
Genre(s): Documentary
Production Co.: Lion Television
Starring: Jake Robards


Who would I recommend this to?
Dog lovers!

What is this about?
Almost exactly what the title suggests. I felt like it was more about what different body shapes do for the dog, rather than how they actually got them (through breeding, obviously).

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever you want something quick and cute and moderately educational. I watched it at work.

Where does it take place?
All over. Wherever the dogs are.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I love dogs and thought it would be cute and interesting. It was a fun way to kill time on a slow work day.

How did I like this?
I thought it was adorable. I did learn some things about dogs, but felt like it didn't really go too in detail about the different body parts and shapes. They also seemed to focus on more common breeds, rather than the really unusual ones.

Have you seen How Dogs Got Their Shapes? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

Lady and the Tramp (2019)

Title: Lady and the Tramp
Rating: PG
Run Time: 1 hour 44 minutes
Release Date: November 12, 2019
Genre(s): Romance
Production Co.: Walt Disney Pictures
Director: Charlie Bean
Starring: Tessa Thompson, Justin Theroux, Sam Elliott


Who would I recommend this to?
Dog lovers. Love lovers. Disney fans.

What is this about?
A family dog and a street dog fall in love! You know the story!

When would be a good time to watch this?
Right now. Date night. Family night. A stormy afternoon.

Where does it take place?
New Orleans!

Why did I decide to watch this?
I love dogs. I love Disney. I have a Disney+ subscription. To hang out with my mom. I like the original animated version.

How did I like this?
I freaking adored it! It's sooo cute! It sticks pretty close to the original, but there are some changes. They're good changes though. I did miss the Siamese cat song, but I'm so glad they cut it! Because obviously.

Have you seen Lady and the Tramp? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

Wine Country (2019)

Title: Wine Country
Rating: R
Run Time: 1 hour 43 minutes
Release Date: May 8, 2019
Genre(s): Comedy
Production Co.: Dunshire Productions
Director: Amy Poehler
Starring: Amy Poehler, Rachel Dratch, Ana Gasteyer


Who would I recommend this to?
Comedy fans. Girl power. Women older than me.

What is this about?
A group of friends head to Napa for a 50th birthday bash! But things do not go as planned...

When would be a good time to watch this?
On a boring afternoon, when you just need something to do.

Where does it take place?
Napa Valley!

Why did I decide to watch this?
My friend just put it on while doing my hair. My mom had watched it and said it was funny.

How did I like this?
It was pretty good. I normally like friendship movies. However, I do think I was too young to really "get" it. I don't have 50 year old problems and a lot of references went over my head. It was definitely better than Bridesmaids though.

Have you seen Wine Country? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

The Perfection (2018)

Title: The Perfection
Rating: MA
Run Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Release Date: September 20, 2018
Genre(s): Suspense, LGBTQ+
Production Co.: Capstone Film Group
Director: Richard Shephard
Starring: Allison Williams, Logan Browning, Steven Weber


Who would I recommend this to?
People who like WTF-type movies that keep you on the edge of your seat. Fans of nonlinear storytelling.

What is this about?
Charlotte and Lizzie are the best cellists from their former music school, but can there really be two bests...

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever you're in the mood for something weird. Maybe not at night though, since there are some jumps. Or maybe that adds to the experience for you....

Where does it take place?
Mostly in Shanghai.

Why did I decide to watch this?
My friend was doing my hair. It was new on Netflix, so she put it on.

How did I like this?
Seriously, WTF. The word we both used to describe it was "crazy." Once we thought we knew what was going on, something else would happen and throw us off! It was one insanity after another!

Have you seen The Perfection? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Reflections on Blogging From A to Z Challenge

Well, that was fun!

I discovered the Blogging From A to Z April Challenge several years ago when I was a book blogger, but I never participated until now. And I survived! I also completed my personal goal of watching 24 new-to-me movies in order to cover the 26 needed.

For next year, I plan on joining again, but I'm thinking about reviewing series instead of movies! That would be a huge (but likely super fun) undertaking! I wouldn't force myself to watching all 100 episodes of something if I wasn't into it, but I'm sure I'll get hooked into binging plenty.

We'll see how I manage my time. It might be series. It might be movies again. Or maybe a mix. I just know that I want to do it again!

Zoom (2015)

Title: Zoom
Rating: TV-MA
Run Time: 1 hour 36 minutes
Release Date: September 11, 2015
Genre(s): Drama
Production Co.: Rhombus Media
Director: Pedro Morelli
Starring: Tyler Labine, Alison Pill, Michael Eklund


Who would I recommend this to?
Fans of quirky movies.

What is this about?
Emma is drawing a comic about Edward, who's filming a movie about Michelle, who is writing a novel about Emma, who is...

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever you feel like killing time with a short movie.

Where does it take place?
Canada and Brazil.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I needed a Z for A to Z Blogging!

How did I like this?
"It has lesbians; that's always hot."

I liked it! It was super weird and ridiculous and just interesting. I mean, Emma's comic, Edward's movie, and Michelle's novel don't make any sense whatsoever, but it was interesting how each one affected the life of the one they're writing/drawing/filming about.

The ending was awful! But it worked within the context! I had a feeling that would happen! But I want to know what happened with the cocaine!

Have you seen Zoom? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

You Get Me (2017)

Title: You Get Me
Rating: TV-MA
Run Time: 1 hour 29 minutes
Release Date: June 23, 2017
Genre(s): Suspense
Production Co.: Awesomeness Films
Director: Brent Bonacorso
Starring: Bella Thorne, Halston Sage, Taylor John Smith


Who would I recommend this to?
Fans of dark movies and suspense.

What is this about?
Tyler meets Holly and they spend a weekend together during the summer. Then she moves to be with him, but he has a girlfriend. Holly still believes that they belong together....

When would be a good time to watch this?
Maybe not when it's dark. It's not a horror movie, but there's a few jumps.

Where does it take place?
Sunny, smoggy Los Angeles!

Why did I decide to watch this?
I needed a Y for A to Z Blogging Challenge, and I'm a huge fan of fictional stalkers. If I can't have you, no one can!!!

How did I like this?
I really enjoyed it! Holly is clearly disturbed and Tyler is just a nice guy who made a mistake and now everyone around him is paying for it. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time! What is Holly going to do next?!

Have you seen You Get Me? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

X-Men (2000)

Title: X-Men
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 1 hour 44 minutes
Release Date: July 14, 2000
Genre(s): Sci-Fi
Production Co.: Twentieth Century Fox
Director: Bryan Singer
Starring: Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, Ian McKellen


Who would I recommend this to?
Sci-Fi Fans. Action movie fans. Sookie Stackhouse admirers.

What is this about?
Human evolution. Superhumans. Explosions.

When would be a good time to watch this?
When you need a little action in your life! Maybe date night?

Where does it take place?
Future America. Specifically, New York.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I remember watching the X-Men cartoon all the time as a kid, and I remember remembering that every time another movie was added to this series. Yet, I never watched any of them.

How did I like this?
It was fun! I was expecting action and excitement, but there were some unexpected humorous and heartfelt moments as well. I also thought this was a superhero movie, but it's not, which I liked. It's just superhumans doing superhuman things, rather than specifically setting out to save the world.

The special effects are kind of cheesy though. But I think that has more to do with age rather than them being bad. The technology is 20 years old, sooo...

I'm definitely left wanting more! Thankfully, there's plenty of movies to give an X for the A to Z Blogging Challenge for years to come!

Have you seen X-Men? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Wreck-It Ralph (2012)

Title: Wreck-It Ralph
Rating: PG
Run Time: 1 hour 41 minutes
Release Date: November 2, 2012
Genre(s): Animation
Production Co.: Walt Disney Pictures
Director: Rich Moore
Starring: John C. Reilly, Jack McBrayer, Jane Lynch


Who would I recommend this to?
Disney fans. Gamers.

What is this about?
Ralph is the bad guy in his game, and he's tired of it! So he sets out to earn a medal and prove that he's a hero!

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever you have 100 minutes.

Where does it take place?
In an arcade! And across different games in that arcade.

Why did I decide to watch this?
It's Disney. I own it. I needed a W.

How did I like this?
I didn't love it as much as I thought, and I didn't cry! It's definitely super fun and cute though.

This is also the most visually interesting Pixar movie, I think. The different style of video games crossing over into each other was super cool looking.

Have you seen Wreck-It Ralph? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

Venom (2018)

Title: Venom
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 1 hour 52 minutes
Release Date: October 5, 2018
Genre(s): Sci-Fi
Production Co.: Columbia Pictures, Marvel Entertainment
Director: Ruben Fleischer
Starring: Tom Hardy, Michelle Williams, Riz Ahmed


Who would I recommend this to?
Marvel fans.

What is this about?
A guy gets infected by an alien and explosions happen.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever.

Where does it take place?
New York, where everything seems to happen.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I actually saw previews for it when it was in theaters, which is rare for me, and thought it looked like what I wished Spiderman 3 was.

How did I like this?
I didn't. Honestly, I didn't pay much attention to it at all. It simply didn't grab my attention. I thought it was going to be a fun ride, but...not for me.

I thought it ended three different times. Awkward.

Have you seen Venom? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

Unicorn Store (2017)

Title: Unicorn Store
Rating: TV-PG
Run Time: 1 hour 32 minutes
Release Date: September 11, 2017
Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance
Production Co.: 51 Entertainment
Director: Brie Larson
Starring: Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, Joan Cusack


Who would I recommend this to?
Everyone. Especially anyone who feels alone or like they don't fit into the mold society wants us to.

What is this about?
Kit gets kicked out of art school and takes a boring job in an office to prove that she's not a failure. But then she gets invited to "The Store" where she can get the one thing that she's always wanted...

When would be a good time to watch this?
Immediately. As soon as you have time. When you need some light in your life.

Where does it take place?
I have no idea actually.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I am Kit. Except that I graduated from college. But I work a mediocre job, live with my parents, and desperately want a unicorn to love me forever and ever.

How did I like this?
Samuel L. Jackson wearing colorful suits and a tinsel afro gives me life. For serious.

This movie is beyond adorable. It's funny and heartwarming. There's family and romance and finding your own way. And glitter. It has everything.

Have you seen Unicorn Store? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

Teenage Cocktail (2017)

Title: Teenage Cocktail
Rating: TV-MA
Run Time: 1 hour 28 minutes
Release Date: January 15, 2017
Genre(s): Drama, LGBTQ+
Production Co.: Backup Media
Director: John Carchietta
Starring: Nichole Bloom, Fabianne Therese, Pat Healy


Who would I recommend this to?
Fans of dark movies. LGBTQ+.

What is this about?
Two girls' lives are at stake after meeting a fan of their webcam.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Right now. Whenever you have time.

Where does it take place?
Some small town.

Why did I decide to watch this?
It sounded exactly like something I'd like. Thanks, Netflix!

How did I like this?
I really enjoyed it! It had me hooked from the very beginning straight through to the end credits. Annie and Jules' relationship is one crazy ride.

That ending though...what happened!??!?!

Have you seen Teenage Cocktail? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

Stitch! The Movie (2003)

Title: Stitch! The Movie
Rating: PG
Run Time: 1 hour
Release Date: August 25, 2003
Genre(s): Animation
Production Co.: Disney Television Animation
Director: Tony Craig, Roberts Gannaway
Starring: Daveigh Chase, Chris Sanders, Tia Carrere


Who would I recommend this to?
Stitch fans.

What is this about?
Jumba is kidnapped and one of the other experiments escapes! It's up to Lilo and Stitch to save them all!

When would be a good time to watch this?
On a quiet afternoon when you have nothing else to do and need to kill an hour.

Where does it take place?
Hawaii! And outer space.

Why did I decide to watch this?
It's Disney. I own it. It's on Netflix. Yet, I hadn't seen it because of my fear of Disney sequels.

How did I like this?
It was cute! It's not the original, but that's okay. It was quick, to the point, and just a good time.

Have you seen Stitch! The Movie? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

Ready Player One (2018)

Title: Ready Player One
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Release Date: March 29, 2018
Genre(s): Sci-Fi
Production Co.: Amblin Entertainment
Director: Steven Speilberg
Starring: Tye Sheridan, Olivia Cooke, Ben Mendelsohn


Who would I recommend this to?
Everyone. Gamers. Pop culture enthusiasts. Bookworms.

What is this about?
Real life virtual reality...gaming competition...pop culture awesomeness...

When would be a good time to watch this?
Right now.

Where does it take place?
The Stacks. Columbus, OH. 2045. Mostly in virtual reality known as The Oasis!

Why did I decide to watch this?
I read the book several years ago and OMG LOVED IT!!!

How did I like this?
I have to say that the special effects are awesome. It's like one those of hyper-realistic videogames, which is exactly what I was expecting.

The specific plot points and details are different from the book, but the vibe is spot on! So I can forgive the liberties taken, which were likely done because of licensing and trademarks and all that legal nonsense.

Have you seen (or read) Ready Player One? What did you think?

If not, would you watch (or read) it?

Quest for Camelot (1998)

Title: Quest for Camelot
Rating: G
Run Time: 1 hour 26 minutes
Release Date: May 15, 1998
Genre(s): Animation, Fantasy
Production Co.: Warner Bros.
Director: Frederik Du Chau
Starring: Jessalyn Gilsig, Cary Elwes, Andrea Corr


Who would I recommend this to?
Kids. Fans of old school animation.

What is this about?
Kayley goes on a quest...for Camelot...

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever. On a boring weekend.

Where does it take place?
Camelot.

Why did I decide to watch this?
It's the first movie to come to mind when I was thinking of a Q for the A to Z Blogging Challenge, and I honestly don't know if I had ever watched it as a kid.

How did I like this?
This one is jam-packed with musical numbers. Sadly, only one of them is particularly memorable: I Stand Alone. The Villain's song did have cool imagery, but the song was rhythmically and lyrically lacking. And was a convenient distraction so Kayley could sneak away.

I'm sure I would have enjoyed this one more a long time ago, but it was a pleasant way to spend an afternoon.

Have you seen Quest for Camelot? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

Pete's Dragon (2016)

Title: Pete's Dragon
Rating: PG
Run Time: 1 hour 42 minutes
Release Date: August 12, 2016
Genre(s): Fantasy
Production Co.: Walt Disney Pictures
Director: David Lowery
Starring: Bryce Dallas Howard, Robert Redford, Oakes Fegley


Who would I recommend this to?
I feel like this one will appeal more to kids rather than Disney loving adults.

What is this about?
In true Disney fashion, it all starts with the death of Pete's parents. Then he's raised by a dragon in the woods where their car crashed. So basically it's The Jungle Book in a forest with a dragon instead of the jungle with a bear.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever.

Where does it take place?
Millhaven. Wherever that is.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I honestly don't know. I own it, but I can't even remember this movie coming out. I know I've seen the original, but the only thing that I remember from it is the song. Everyone knows the song.

How did I like this?
I liked it well enough. It's fairly predictable, but it did make me cry. Twice. Okay, three times. I have a dragon sensitivity.

Um, excuse me, but where is the song?! You know all know the one...WTF?!

Have you seen Pete's Dragon? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

The Outcasts (2017)

Title: The Outcasts
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Release Date: April 14, 2017
Genre(s): Comedy
Production Co.: BCDF Pictures
Director: Peter Hutchings
Starring: Victoria Justice, Eden Sher, Ashley Rickards


Who would I recommend this to?
Fans of high school movies. Fans of geek uprising! Geeks, dorks, and outcasts.

What is this about?
After a failed attempt at a truce, two BFF outcasts decide to flip the high school social hierarchy upside down!

When would be a good time to watch this?
Right now. Whenever you have time.

Where does it take place?
An American high school, somewhere.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I needed an O for the A to Z Blogging Challenge, and this one looked really fun!

How did I like this?
I adored it! I love movies with geek girls, and movies with outcasts standing up for themselves! This one had a lot of laughs and heartfelt moments.

Have you seen The Outcasts? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

Naomi and Ely's No Kiss List (2015)

Title: Naomi and Ely's No Kiss List
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 1 hour 29 minutes
Release Date: September 18, 2015
Genre(s): Romance, LGBTQ+
Production Co.: N/A
Director: Kristin Hanggi
Starring: Victoria Justice, Pierson Fode, Matthew Daddario


Who would I recommend this to?
People who enjoy college movies (I feel like they're rare) and/or LGBT movies. Friendship lovers.

What is this about?
Naomi and Ely have been friends forever, thanks in part to never fighting over boys. Until now...

When would be a good time to watch this?
Anytime. Maybe with your own BFF.

Where does it take place?
New York City! There's lots and lots and lots of shots of the city.

Why did I decide to watch this?
You probably expect me to say because I read the book. Well, nope. I actually didn't. It just sounded good.

How did I like this?
I enjoyed it. Not a favorite, because it took me forever to warm up to Naomi. I really dislike the "I lie to everyone" character. But as much as this movie is about friendship, it's also about Naomi growing up.

This also seemed to be an ode to Victoria Justice's navel and biting her lip...

Have you seen Naomi and Ely's No Kiss List? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things (2016)

Title: Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things
Rating: NR
Run Time: 1 hour 18 minutes
Release Date: 2016
Genre(s): Documentary
Production Co.: Catalyst
Director: Matt D'Avella
Starring: Joshua Fields Millburn, Ryan Nicodemus, Joshua Becker, Dan Harris, Sam Harris


Who would I recommend this to?
Huggers. People who are new to or are interested in minimalism. People who like documentaries about alternative lifestyles.

What is this about?
"There's more to life than bills and money and work."

"Is this useful."

When would be a good time to watch this?
The best time would probably be if you're looking to make some changes in your life. Maybe minimalism isn't for you, but this documentary will give you a lot to think about.

Where does it take place?
Consumerist America. Probably in your own home.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Honestly, because I recently became obsessed with The Minimalists while starting my own minimalist journey. I binged their podcast, read their books, so watching the film was a logical next step.

How did I like this?
I did enjoy it quite a bit, especially the section on tiny houses!!!

However...Josh in the desert? That was seriously out of place and self-indulgent. There's no other way to describe that. I hope there's none of that in their next documentary.

Have you seen Minimalism? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Love, Simon (2018)

Title: Love, Simon
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Release Date: March 16, 2018
Genre(s): Romance, LGBTQ+
Production Co.: Fox 2000 Pictures
Director: Greg Berlanti
Starring: Nick Robinson, Jennifer Garner, Josh Duhamel


Who would I recommend this to?
Everybody. Especially anyone who feels underrepresented in the media.

What is this about?
Simon, who is gay, but not out. Then he meets Blue online.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Anytime you need a cute and funny pick-me-up!

Where does it take place?
An American high school.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I read the book a couple years ago and really liked it! I'm very exited that this one got a movie deal.

How did I like this?
I super enjoyed this one! Its funny and sweet and heartwarming. Simon's gay college fantasy is basically my fantasy life.

Simon's parents cracked me up! I think the casting was spot on for those two!

Have you seen Love, Simon? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

Kronk's New Groove (2005)

Title: Kronk's New Groove
Rating: G
Run Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Release Date: December 12, 2005
Genre(s): Animation
Production Co.: Walt Disney Pictures
Director: Saul Blinkoff, Elliot M. Bour
Starring: Patrick Warburton, Eartha Kitt, Tracey Ullman


Who would I recommend this to?
Kronk fans.

What is this about?
Kronk just wants his father's approval!

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever. Take your time. It's not going anywhere.

Where does it take place?
"Somewhere deep in the jungle (again)..."

Why did I decide to watch this?
Kronk was my favorite character from The Emperor's New Groove, and I needed a K for the A to Z Blogging Challenge, sooo....

How did I like this?
This one is a musical even though the first one wasn't, which is fine. I generally prefer musicals, but the songs seemed thrown in just to fill up time, since there's a bit of a lack of real conflict. Although, the bread baking montage was pretty epic.

It was cute, but definitely fell into the disappointing Disney sequels trap. At least it was the original voice cast.

Have you seen Kronk's New Groove? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017)

Title: Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 1 hour 59 minutes
Release Date: December 20, 2017
Genre(s): Adventure, Fantasy
Production Co.: Columbia Pictures
Director: Jake Kasdan
Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Jack Black, Kevin Hart, Karen Gillan


Who would I recommend this to?
Everybody who watches movies

What is this about?
That dangerous life-like game is back (in a new form!) to bring a new generation together.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Immediately if you've never seen it. Also immediately if you haven't seen it in a while.

Where does it take place?
In the jungle you must wait until the dice read 5 or 8...

Why did I decide to watch this?
I love the original, so I was super excited for there to be a remake! Plus The Rock is pretty awesome.

How did I like this?
I loved it! This was such a smart and hilarious and adventurous update of a classic! I was laughing from beginning to end and my face hurts from smiling so much.

I'll say it....this is better than the original!

What you seen Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

Inside Out (2015)

Title: Inside Out
Rating: PG
Run Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Release Date: June 19, 2015
Genre(s): Animation
Production Co.: Walt Disney Pictures, Pixar Animation Studios
Director: Pete Docter, Ronnie Del Carmen
Starring: Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Richard Kind, Bill Hader, Lewis Black


 Who would I recommend this to?
Kids and hardcore Disney/Pixar fans.

What is this about?
A super creative look into emotions and memories!

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever. No rush.

Where does it take place?
Inside Riley's mind. Literally. Like inside her head where her emotions and memories reside. But also San Francisco!

Why did I decide to watch this?
As always, I'm a major Disney and Pixar fan, sooo...

How did I like this?
It was cute, but certainly not a favorite. I feel like the concept was way better than the execution.

This is also the first Pixar film that didn't make me cry. I guess there's a first time for everything.

Have you seen Inside Out? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

Hidden Figures (2017)

Title: Hidden Figures
Rating: PG
Run Time: 2 hours 7 minutes
Release Date: January 6, 2017
Genre(s): Biography
Production Co.: Fox 2000 Pictures
Director: Theodore Melfi
Starring: Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monae


Who would I recommend this to?
History buffs. STEM girls.

What is this about?
The super amazing black women who did the math for NASA's first manned shuttle launch into orbit!

When would be a good time to watch this?
I really don't know. I think this is one of those movies you need to be in the mood for.

Where does it take place?
1960s Virginia. Mostly in the NASA offices.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I found the book really interesting, but kind of slow to get through. So I figured the movie would be a more engaging format for the story of these amazing women.

How did I like this?
"Here at NASA, we all pee the same color."

I liked it a lot. It took the book, and condensed it down to the highlights and most interesting parts. Of course, it added some bits to make it entertaining.

Have you seen (or read) Hidden Figures? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

Ghostbusters (2016)

Title: Ghostbusters
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 1 hour 56 minutes
Release Date: July 15, 2016
Genre(s): Comedy, Fantasy
Production Co.: Columbia Pictures
Director: Paul Feig
Starring: Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon, Leslie Jones


Who would I recommend this to?
Anyone who likes funny science movies.

What is this about?
Smart women doing science to prove the existence of ghosts!

When would be a good time to watch this?
I watched this alone on a quiet afternoon, but I think it would be really fun to watch it during a girls' night or a date night or with your mom or something like that.

Where does it take place?
New York.

Why did I decide to watch this?
The future is female! It's all lady remake of Ghostbusters, so obviously I wanted to see it.

How did I like this?
This was so much fun! I was worried that it was going to be a repeat of Bridesmaids, but thankfully it wasn't. The humor was just spot on!

The cameos and nods to the original were also really well done without being ridiculous. I'm glad they mostly kept this as its own thing.

The special effects are questionable, but I think it fits the goofy feel of the movie. If that makes sense.

Have you seen Ghostbusters? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

Finding Dory (2016)

Title: Find Dory
Rating: PG
Run Time: 1 hour 37 minutes
Release Date: June 17, 2016
Genre(s): Animation
Production Co.: Pixar Animation Studios
Director: Andrew Stanton, Angus MacLane
Starring: Ellen DeGeneres, Albert Brooks, Ed O'Neill


Who would I recommend this to?
Disney fans.

What is this about?
Dory suddenly remembers her family. Kind of. So Marlin and Nemo agree to help her travel to California to find them!

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever. On a boring, rainy afternoon.

Where does it take place?
California! At a "fish hospital."

Why did I decide to watch this?
Um, it's Disney Pixar. I own it. I'm sure you all are sensing a pattern here. I love Disney. And I loved Finding Nemo. It's about time I watched its sequel.

How did I like this?
One thing that stands out to me about Finding Dory (and Finding Nemo, actually) is the colors. I absolutely love the bright colors! I am a sucker for colorful animation.

Overall, it was super cute. I loved Dory and Hank! But I must say that the original was better.

Have you seen Finding Dory? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

The Emperor's New Groove (2000)

Title: The Emperor's New Groove
Rating: G
Run Time: 1 hour 19 minutes
Release Date: December 15, 2000
Genre(s): Animation
Production Co.: Walt Disney Pictures
Director: Mark Dindal
Starring: David Spade, John Goodman, Eartha Kitt, Patrick Warburton


Who would I recommend this to?
Disney and David Spade fans.

What is this about?
It's Disney's take on the Emperor's New Clothes. Except the emperor isn't naked; he's just self-absorbed.

"Beware the groove. Groooooove..."

When would be a good time to watch this?
On a lazy afternoon. Possibly cuddling with your dog.

Where does it take place?
"Long ago, somewhere deep in the jungle..." according to the opening scene.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I actually saw this for the first (and previously only) time on the bus during my Senior trip to Disneyland. I didn't remember a darn thing, other than that it was on. We also watched the Little Mermaid and had a sing-a-long. It was about time for a real viewing.

How did I like this?
It's so fun and funny! Not what I was expecting, but I still liked it a lot. Mostly because of Kronk though.

Have you seen The Emperor's New Groove? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

A Dog's Purpose (2017)

Title: A Dog's Purpose
Rating: PG
Run Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Release Date: January 27, 2017
Genre(s): Fantasy
Production Co.: Dreamworks
Director: Lasse Hollstrom
Starring: Dennis Quaid, Josh Gad, Peggy Lipton


Who would I recommend this to?
Dog lovers. Bookworms.

What is this about?
A dog who keeps getting reincarnated in order to learn things and ultimately fulfill his purpose.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Immediately. Right now.

Where does it take place?
Somewhere...over many years, as Bailey returns again and again.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I read the book several years ago and loved it!

How did I like this?
Of course, a movie about puppy reincarnation means that said puppy has to die a few times. I hate that. It made me cry in the book, but I was prepared for it here.

I still cried through the whole movie though, because of everything. Happy tears. Sad tears. All of the tears.

Have you seen A Dog's Purpose? What did you think

If not, would you watch it?

Coco (2017)

Title: Coco
Rating: PG
Run Time: 1 hour 24 minutes
Release Date: November 22, 2017
Genre(s): Animation
Production Co.: Walt Disney Pictures, Pixar Animation Studios
Director: Lee Unkrich, Adrian Molina
Starring: Anthony Gonzalez, Gael Garcia Bernal, Benjamin Bratt, Alanna Ubach, Renee Victor


 Who would I recommend this to?
Everyone.

What is this about?
Miguel's family hates music, but he wants nothing more than to be a musician! Then hijinks ensue during the day of the dead, getting Miguel sent to the Land of the Dead to find his great great grandfather!

When would be a good time to watch this?
Anytime you want a fun movie, or maybe a good cry.

Where does it take place?
Mexico and the land of the dead! So pretty!

Why did I decide to watch this?
It's Pixar, duh. I own it and it's on Netflix and it took me forever to finally get to it.

How did I like this?
Well, it continues Pixar's streak of making me cry like a baby, so there's that. I was getting worried though, because it took until the very end and then hit me hard.

The animation is super duper gorgeous. The land of the dead is really something special.

Have you seen Coco? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Born in China (2017)

Title: Born in China
Rating: G
Run Time: 1 hour 19 minutes
Release Date: 2017
Genre(s): Documentary
Production Co.: Walt Disney Pictures
Director: Chuan Lu
Starring: John Krasinski


Who would I recommend this to?
The world. Particularly, animal lovers and nature enthusiasts.

What is this about?
A family of Golden Snub-nosed Monkeys, snow leopards, antelopes, and a mama and baby panda!

When would be a good time to watch this?
When you feel like having a good cry, or if you're not as sensitive when it comes to animals as me, just on a quiet afternoon when you feel like watching cute animals in the wild.

Where does it take place?
China...obviously.

Why did I decide to watch this?
It's Disney. It's on Netflix. I love the DisneyNature series even though it makes me weep.

I wonder if these are the same snow leopards from Ghosts of the Mountain? I haven't watched that one yet, but it's been on my list...

How did I like this?
I love these documentaries so much, but I cry so hard! I think this one had my favorite storylines and it didn't crush my soul as much as Earth. The cinematography was gorgeous as always.

Have you seen Born in China? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Atlantis: The Lost Empire (2001)

Title: Atlantis: The Lost Empire
Rating: PG
Run Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Release Date: 2001
Genre(s): Animation, Adventure
Production Co.: Walt Disney Pictures
Director: Gary Trousdale, Kirk Wise
Starring: Michael J. Fox, James Garner, Claudia Christian


Who would I recommend this to?
Disney fans, obviously. People who like funny adventure films.

What is this about?
The adorable Milo has been studying the legend of Atlantis and sets out to find it! Adventure (and gorgeous animation) ensues! Not a musical.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever you have 90 minutes to spare and want a fast paced, geeky adventure. Or on a rainy afternoon like I did.

Where does it take place?
Washington D.C. in 1914! Something a little different for Disney. Plus under water, of course. Mostly under water.

Why did I decide to watch this?
It's Disney. I own it. It's on Netflix. Yet, I hadn't seen it. Kicking off the A to Z Blogging Challenge seemed like a good enough reason to finally fix that.

How did I like this?
Milo's crew is quite colorful. Yay (stereotypical) diversity and fun personalities! The demolitianist cracked me up. "I just like to blow things up."

Why is Kida not a Disney Princess? Why is there no Atlantisland? It would be so pretty! Why is there no Atlantis ride?! Water ride!

Seriously, why did I wait so long to watch this?! I know it's not one of the classics or even one the more popular Disney movies, but it was so good! It also seems to be on the "sexier" and violent end of the spectrum. Definitely PG.

Have you seen Atlantis? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?