Pokémon Concierge - Season 1 (2023)

Title: Pokémon Concierge
Rating: TV-PG
Run Time: 20 minutes
Release Date: December 28, 2023
Genre(s): Animation, Fantasy, Series
Production Co.: GAME FREAK
Director: Iku Ogawa
Starring: Karen Fukuhara, Eita Okuno, Fairouz Ai


Who would I recommend this to?
You!

What is this about?
A young lady starts working at a resort for Pokemon.

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

Where does it take place?
The Pokemon Resort.

Why did I decide to watch this?
It looked effing adorable.

How did I like this?
It's effing adorable! We need more shows done in this style!

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

I Can't Understand What My Husband is Saying - Season 2 (2015)

Title: I Can't Understand What My Husband is Saying
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 3 minutes
Release Date: April 3, 2015
Genre(s): Anime, Comedy
Production Co.: DAX Production, Dream Creation
Director: Shinpei Nagai
Starring: Yukari Tamura, Kenichi Suzumura, Kaori Shimizu


Who would I recommend this to?
I'm not sure. I'm an anime newb.

What is this about?
A woman married to an otaku, and their daily hijinks.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever you have a few moments to spare.

Where does it take place?
Japan.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I liked the first season well enough, and it's super short.

How did I like this?
I liked it more than the first season! There was a smaller focus on random humor, and more focus on the emotional arcs. And we got to know everyone a lot better, including the friend group.

Have you seen I Can't Understand What My Husband is Saying? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

I Can't Understand What My Husband is Saying - Season 1 (2014)

Title: I Can't Understand What My Husband is Saying
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 3 minutes
Release Date: October 3, 2014
Genre(s): Anime, Comedy
Production Co.: DAX Production, Dream Creation
Director: Shinpei Nagai
Starring: Yukari Tamura, Kenichi Suzumura, Kaori Shimizu


Who would I recommend this to?
I'm not sure. I'm an anime newb.

What is this about?
A woman married to an otaku, and their daily hijinks.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever you have a few moments to spare.

Where does it take place?
Japan.

Why did I decide to watch this?
It sounded fun and it's super short. Easy win!

How did I like this?
It was pretty good! Not all of the humor was to my liking, but that's normal. I still enjoyed it.

Have you seen I Can't Understand What My Husband is Saying? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

The Santa Clauses - Season 2 (2023)

Title: The Santa Clauses - Season 2
Rating: TV-PG
Run Time: 30 minutes
Release Date: November 8, 2023
Genre(s): Fantasy, Series
Production Co.: Disney Branded Television
Creator: Jack Burditt
Starring: Tim Allen, Elizabeth Mitchell, Eric Stonestreet


Who would I recommend this to?
Whoever liked the first season.

What is this about?
Mad Santa is on the loose!

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

Where does it take place?
The North Pole.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I really liked the first season.

How did I like this?
I love Mad Santa! He's great! This season was really fun!

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

The Little Drummer Boy (1968)

Title: The Little Drummer Boy
Rating: NR
Run Time: 25 minutes
Release Date: December 19, 1968
Genre(s): Animation, Musical, Fantasy, Short Film
Production Co.: Rankin/Bass Productions
Director: Jules Bass, Arthur Rankin Jr., Takeya Nakamura
Starring: Jose Ferrer, Paul Frees, June Foray


Who would I recommend this to?
Anyone who likes questionable Christmas content.

What is this about?
An angry boy who needs Jesus to heal his lamb.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Christmas, I guess.

Where does it take place?
Jerusalem.

Why did I decide to watch this?
It was Christmas Eve and I couldn't remember if I'd seen this one.

How did I like this?
It looked familiar, so I probably did see it, and probably never watched it again. It's not very good. I definitely hate people too, but...weird.

Have you seen The Little Drummer Boy? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Santa Claus is Coming to Town (1970)

Title: Santa Claus is Coming to Town
Rating: TV-G
Run Time: 48 minutes
Release Date: December 14, 1970
Genre(s): Animation, Musical, Fantasy, Short Film
Production Co.: Rankin/Bass Productions
Director: Jules Bass, Arthur Rankin Jr.
Starring: Fred Astaire, Mickey Rooney, Keenan Wynn


Who would I recommend this to?
Christmas people.

What is this about?
An orphan becomes the greatest criminal of all time.

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

Where does it take place?
Sombertown.

Why did I decide to watch this?
It was Christmas Eve and I hadn't seen this in a while.

How did I like this?!
I always adored this one! Not as much as Rudolph, but who could ever forget Bergermeister Meisterberger?! The songs are top notch too.

Have you seen Santa Claus is Coming to Town? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Frosty the Snowman (1969)

Title: Frosty the Snowman
Rating: TV-G
Run Time: 25 minutes
Release Date: December 7, 1969
Genre(s): Animation, Musical, Fantasy, Short Film
Production Co.: Rankin/Bass Productions
Director: Jules Bass, Arthur Rankin Jr.
Starring: Jackie Vernon, Billy De Wolfe, Jimmy Durante


Who would I recommend this to?
Christmas kids.

What is this about?
Kids try to get their magical snowman friend somewhere cold.

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

Where does it take place?
Uhh....

Why did I decide to watch this?
It was Christmas Eve and I hadn't seen it in years.

How did I like this?
It's fine. I know I watched it as a kid, but I don't have many memories of it. It's a cute short, but it doesn't really stand out to me like the other Christmas specials from this time.

Have you seen Frosty the Snowman? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Barbie (2023)

Title: Barbie
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 1 hour 54 minutes
Release Date: July 21, 2023
Genre(s): Fantasy, Comedy
Production Co.: Warner Bros.
Director: Greta Gerwig
Starring: Margo Robbie, Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera


Who would I recommend this to?
THE WORLD.

What is this about?
Fighting the patriarchy. And what makes us human.

When would be a good time to watch this?
All the time.

Where does it take place?
Barbieland and Los Angeles.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because Barbie is epic.

How did I like this?
I loved it! I smiled so much! And it had my kind of humor! And heart! And was part musical! And I have that dress! I'm a Barbie girl, unfortunately in the Real World.

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

The Santa Clauses - Season 1 (2022)

Title: The Santa Clauses - Season 1
Rating: TV-PG
Run Time: 33 minutes
Release Date: November 16, 2022
Genre(s): Fantasy, Series
Production Co.: Disney Branded Television
Creator: Jack Burditt
Starring: Tim Allen, Eilzabeth Mitchell, Devin Bright


Who would I recommend this to?
Anyone who likes Christmas stuff.

What is this about?
Christmas is changing, so must Santa change too...

When would be a good time to watch this?
The "holiday" season.

Where does it take place?
The North Pole and Chicago.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because I like the original movie.

How did I like this?
Am I allowed to say I liked this better than the movies? Well, it's not hard to be better than the third movie, but I genuinely enjoyed this more than all of them. It's so fun! As someone who no longer celebrates Christmas, I loved them poking fun at what the holiday has become, without being cynical.

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

Good Burger 2 (2023)

Title: Good Burger 2
Rating: TV-PG
Run Time: 1 hour 46 minutes
Release Date: November 22, 2023
Genre(s): Comedy
Production Co.: Paramount Pictures
Director: Phil Traill
Starring: Kel Mitchell, Kenan Thompson, Kamaia Fairburn


Who would I recommend this to?
'90s kids who grew up with Kenan and Kel.

What is this about?
Revenge with a side of burger sauce. And the friends we made along the way.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Anytime you need something goofy.

Where does it take place?
Los Angeles.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because the first movie is a classic.

How did I like this?
 It certainly has the spirit of the original! Gang's all here! And the plot feels very reminiscent of the first, not a direct copy, but it feels real for these characters.

I do have to say, I feel like they were trying too hard with some of the jokes, but that seems to be common across most adult reboots of kids' stuff.

Have you seen Good Burger 2? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Goosebumps - Season 1 (2023)

Title: Goosebumps
Rating: TV-14
Run Time: 40 minutes
Release Date: October 13, 2023
Genre(s): Fantasy, Horror, Series
Production Co.: Factory Underground
Creator(s): Rob Letterman, Nicholas Stoller
Starring: Zack Morris, Isa Briones, Justin Long


Who would I recommend this to?
Grown-up '90s kids.

What is this about?
Freaky stuff happens to a group of teens and their teacher, after he moves into a house where a grisly death occurred.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Now. Spooky season.

Where does it take place?
Port Lawrence.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because I'm a '90s kid who grew up on the Goosebumps books.

How did I like this?
It's so much fun! I adored how they mixed a bunch of different plots from the books into a semi-cohesive series about death and revenge!

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

Five Nights at Freddy's (2023)

Title: Five Nights at Freddy's
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Release Date: October 27, 2023
Genre(s): Horror
Production Co.: Blumhouse Productions
Director: Emma Tammi
Starring: Josh Hutcherson, Piper Rubio, Elizabeth Lail


Who would I recommend this to?
FNaF fans. The normies won't get it.

What is this about?
A down-on-his-luck guys starts working as a security guard for a haunted pizzeria.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Now, spooky season, any time you want some fun.

Where does it take place?
Freddy Fazbear's Pizzeria.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because I fell into the FNaF rabbit hole and can't get out.

How did I like this?
It's so fun! It's more focused on the human, emotional side than the horror side, which suited me fine. I'm a baby when it comes to Horror, so I'm glad this was more tame. Yes, there are jumpscares, but anyone familiar with the games will be expecting that.

Have you seen Five Nights at Freddy's? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

The Meg (2018)

Title: The Meg
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 1 hour 53 minutes
Release Date: August 10, 2018
Genre(s): Horror
Production Co.: Di Bonaventure Pictures
Director: Jon Turteltaub
Starring: Jason Statham, Bingbing Li Rainn Wilson


Who would I recommend this to?
Fans of shark attack movies.

What is this about?
A group of scientists accidentally unleash a though to be extinct monster!

When would be a good time to watch this?
Anytime, really.

Where does it take place?
The Marianas Trench.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I like shark attack movies.

How did I like this?
It was fun! Less ridiculous than I was anticipating, but a good time! The dog survives, which is what matters!

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

Haunted Mansion (2023)

Title: Haunted Mansion
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 2 hours 4 minutes
Release Date: July 28, 2023
Genre(s): Fantasy, Horror
Production Co.: Walt Disney Pictures
Director: Justin Simien
Starring: LaKeith Stanfield, Rosario Dawson, Owen Wilson


Who would I recommend this to?
Those with spooky hearts.

What is this about?
A mansion...that is haunted...

When would be a good time to watch this?
Now. Or anytime during Spooky Season.

Where does it take place?
New Orleans, Louisiana.

Why did I decide to watch this?
It's Disney. Halloween Disney at that.

How did I like this?
It's so much fun! It's like they took scenes right from the ride and expanded on them! The stretching room! The hatbox ghost! Constance! Gang's all here!

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

Pokémon: The Johto Journeys (2000-01)

Title: Pokémon: The Johto Journeys
Rating: TV-Y7
Run Time: 20 minutes
Release Date: October 14, 2000
Genre(s): Anime, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Series
Production Co.: GAME FREAK
Creator(s): Junichi Msauda, Ken Sugimori, Satoshi Tajiri
Starring: Veronica Taylor, Rachael Lillis, Eric Stuart


Who would I recommend this to?
Everyone who watched the first two seasons.

What is this about?
Legal, nonlethal animal fighting...and the friends we made along the way.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever you need something to perk you up.

Where does it take place?
The Johto Region.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because I was already extremely late to the party, was actually enjoying myself, and decided to stay.

How did I like this?
This season did have a couple of tear-jerkers! I did miss Tracy though! But thankfully, Brock wasn't too annoying. I do like when he breaks out his Pokemon knowledge and cooking skills. I just wish he'd leave the ladies alone. At least Misty is there to keep him in line.

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

 

Pokemon: Spell of the Unknown (2001)

Title: Pokemon: Spell of the Unknown
Rating: G
Run Time: 1 hour 33 minutes
Release Date: April 6, 2001
Genre(s): Anime, Sci-Fi
Production Co.: 4 Kids Entertainment
Director: Kunihiko Yuyama
Starring: Veronica Taylor, Eric Stuart, AMy Birnbaum


Who would I recommend this to?
Pokemon fans or even those new to Pokemon.

What is this about?
Ash and friends must save his mother from the Unknown!

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

Where does it take place?
Greenfield.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because I'm bingeing Pokemon for the first time.

How did I like this?
This is my favorite of the movies thus far! That was insane! And a certain returning Pokemon made me cry. I loved this wild dream world, and it was much more emotionally driven than the previous movie.

Have you seen Spell of the Unknown? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

 

Elemental (2023)

Title: Elemental
Rating: PG
Run Time: 1 hour 41 minutes
Release Date: June 16, 2023
Genre(s): Animation, Fantasy, Romance
Production Co.: Pixar Animation Studios
Director: Peter Sohn
Starring: Leah Lewis, Mamoudou, Ronnie Del Carmen


Who would I recommend this to?
Fans of Inside Out.

What is this about?
Fire and Water come together.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever you need something to do.

Where does it take place?
Element City.

Why did I decide to watch this?
It's Disney.

How did I like this?
They tried to tell a story about the struggle of immigrants and discrimination, much like they did with Zootopia, but it didn't totally work. This was more like another Inside Out, but if Anger and Sadness started dating. I didn't get it at all. 

It was still pretty cute though.

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

The Little Mermaid (2023)

Title: The Little Mermaid
Rating: PG
Run Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Release Date: May 26, 2023
Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance, Musical
Production Co.: Walt Disney Pictures
Director: Rob Marshall
Starring: Halle Bailey, Jonah Hauer-King, Melissa McCarthy


Who would I recommend this to?
You.

What is this about?
A young mermaid longs to be part of the human world.

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

Where does it take place?
Under the sea. And the palace.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because it's Disney, duh.

How did I like this?
I am crying. I cried. Crying. It's so cute.

The first few minutes did give me motion sickness though. That underwater CGI is rough.

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

Pokémon the Movie 2000 (2000)

Title: Pokémon the Movie 2000
Rating: G
Run Time: 1 hour 39 minutes
Release Date: July 21, 2000
Genre(s): Anime, Fantasy, Sci-Fi
Production Co.: GAME FREAK
Director: Kunihiko Yuyama
Starring: Veronica Taylor, Rachael Lillis, Eric Stuart


Who would I recommend this to?
Pokemon fans.

What is this about?
Ecological collapse thanks to someone capturing the legendary Pokémon.

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

Where does it take place?
The Oranges Islands.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I'm binging Pokemon for the first time.

How did I like this?
 This one didn't hold my attention as well as the first movie. The story was fun and exciting, but didn't have that intensity. Also, the animation style was really distracting. It mostly looked like the anime, but with hyper-realistic objects thrown in, which looked off. But it was the '90s...

Have you seen Pokémon the Movie 2000? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Pokémon Adventures in the Orange Islands (1999-2000)

Title: Pokémon Adventures in the Orange Islands
Rating: TV-Y7
Run Time: 20 minutes
Release Date: December, 1999
Genre(s): Anime, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Series
Production Co.: GAME FREAK
Creator(s): Junichi Msauda, Ken Sugimori, Satoshi Tajiri
Starring: Veronica Taylor, Rachael Lillis, Eric Stuart


Who would I recommend this to?
Everyone who watched the first season.

What is this about?
Legal, nonlethal animal fighting...and the friends we made along the way.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever you need something to perk you up.

Where does it take place?
The Orange Islands.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because I was already extremely late to the party, was actually enjoying myself, and decided to stay.

How did I like this?
It's so fun! I flew right through all of the episodes! While none of them made me cry like during Indigo League, there were still several emotional moments. I liked how this arc focused on teamwork. Ash doesn't just need to catch Pokémon and battle with them, they all need to learn to work together on and off the battlefield.

I also liked Tracy so much more than Brock!

Have you seen Adventures in the Orange Islands? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

 

Red, White & Royal Blue (2023)

Title: Red, White & Royal Blue
Rating: R
Run Time: 1 hour 58 minutes
Release Date: August 11, 2023
Genre(s): Romance, LGBTQ+
Production Co.: Amazon Studios
Director: Matthew Lopez
Starring: Taylor Zakhar Perez, Nicholas Galitzine, Uma Thurman


Who would I recommend this to?
Fans of gay romance.

What is this about?
The president's son and the prince of England fall in love!

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

Where does it take place?
Washington DC and London, England.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because the book has been on my radar forever and it sounded cute.

How did I like this?
It was adorable! I really knew nothing going into it, so I was pleasantly surprised. It was funny and steamy and heartfelt.

The only annoyance was Madam President's accent.

Have you seen Red, White & Royal Blue? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Cruel Summer - Season 2 (2023)

Title: Cruel Summer
Rating: TV-14
Run Time: 40 minutes
Release Date: June 5, 2023
Genre(s): Drama, Suspense, Series
Production Co.: Freeform
Director: Bill Purple
Starring: Sadie Stanley, Lexi Underwood, Griffin Gluck


Who would I recommend this to?
Everyone who likes DRAMA and INTRIGUE and CHAOS!

What is this about?
A small town is shaken up when a local teen winds up dead.

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

Where does it take place?
The pacific northwest. "Chatham."

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because Season 1 was excellent.

How did I like this?
I am deceased! I was worried this one wouldn't hook me like the first, but I was IN IT! I only partially figured out whodunit, and a couple of other reveals, so I was SHOOK! I knew a huge twist was coming, but that didn't keep my jaw from dropping.

I love millennium music.

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

iCarly - Season 3 (2023)

 

Title: iCarly
Rating: TV-14
Run Time: 24 minutes
Release Date: June 1, 2024
Genre(s): Comedy, Series
Production Co.: Awesomeness Films, Nickelodeon Studios
Starring: Miranda Cosgrove, Jerry Trainor, Nathan Kress


Who would I recommend this to?
iCarly fans! This is for us!

What is this about?
Carly Shay is all grown up and facing adult problems!

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

Where does it take place?
Seattle, Washington.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because I loved the original iCarly and this reboot has been A+!

How did I like this?
Creddie?! After all this time! I was never a big shipper of them, but I also wasn't against it. But they do make sense and are super cute. I also loved getting more of Mrs. Benson's shenanigans. And of course, Harper! Although I feel like they don't know what else to do with her. It's the same plot as last season, but a different woman.

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

RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars - Season 6 (2021)

 

Title: RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars - Season 6
Rating: TV-14
Run Time: 1 hour
Release Date: June 24, 2021
Genre(s): Series, Reality, LGBTQ+
Production Co.: World of Wonder Productions
Starring: RuPaul, Michelle Visage, Ross Mathews


Who would I recommend this to?
Drag Race fans.

What is this about?
Past contestants compete to be added to the Drag Race Hall of Fame!

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

Where does it take place?
The workroom and main stage.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I never got a chance to watch my DVR of it!

How did I like this?
Obviously, I knew who won going into this, since it's been two years already and I'm obsessed with the series. I wasn't familiar with her at all, because I still haven't seen Seasons 2-4. Oops. In fact, this is probably my least favorite All Stars season, because I wasn't excited about any of the queens. I adored Season 1, even though I didn't know most of the queens, so that's not a problem. Just no one here made me care. I didn't dislike anyone. I was just...indifferent.

I'm also not a huge fan of the lipsync assassin twist. The assassins have no stake in this competition. Let the winner enjoy all of the perks of winning! Or do the true Lip Sync For You Legacy between the top two queens. And the Lipsync Smackdown? I don't see how winning a string of lipsyncs is equal to surviving the main challenge to the end. I like when an eliminated queen returns; I just don't care for this format. Not to mention, that Jiggly totally beat Silky in that second round, and Jan beat her as well. There's no way. But Silky totally won that Barbie Girl.

Have you seen RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars - Season 8 (2023)

Title: RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars - Season 7
Rating: TV-MA
Run Time: 1 hour
Release Date: May 12, 2023
Genre(s): LGBTQ+, Reality, Series
Production Co.: World of Wonder Productions
Starring: RuPaul, Michelle Visage, Carson Kressley, Ross Mathews


Who would I recommend this to?
Drag Race fans, or even those who are new and need to experience it for the first time.

What is this about?
12 previous contestants compete to be in the Drag Race Hall of Fame!

When would be a good time to watch this?
When you need something fun to binge.

Where does it take place?
The workroom and main stage.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because I always watch Drag Race.

How did I like this?
I adored this season! I was so happy to see Jimbo again! And even though I still haven't seen Season 2, I fell in love with Jessica Wild! And it was fun to have LaLa Ri back! This was just a fun cast! I especially loved having all of them back to get ready for the finale together. That was just so sweet and fun.

"Wha-ha-happened to Lil Poundcake" has been added to my list of favorite challenges. I was dying!

Have you seen RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

M3GAN (2022)

Title: M3GAN
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 1 hour 42 minutes
Release Date: December 28, 2022
Genre(s): Horror
Production Co.: Blumhouse Productions
Director: Gerard Johnstone
Starring: Allison Williams, Violet McGraw, Ronny Chieng


Who would I recommend this to?
Those who like creepy, but not actually scary movies.

What is this about?
A robot toy starts killing anyone who harms her girl.

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

Where does it take place?
Oregon?

Why did I decide to watch this?
I like robots, and it was available on my flight home.

How did I like this?
 I'm so glad it wasn't scary, because I liked it a lot! I just can't rate it higher because there was no reason to kill the dog. There were plenty of other ways M3GAN could have gotten rid of him without murder.

Have you seen M3GAN? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Lady Bird (2017)

Title: Lady Bird
Rating: R
Run Time: 1 hour 34 minutes
Release Date: December 1, 2017
Genre(s): Drama
Production Co.: IAC Films
Director: Greta Gerwig
Starring: Saoirse Ronan, Laurie Metcalf, Tracy Letts


Who would I recommend this to?
Those who like more intellectual movies.

What is this about?
A high school senior and her complicated relationships with everyone around her.

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

Where does it take place?
Sacramento, CA in 2002.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I remember being intrigued by the trailers, and it was available on my flight home...to Sacramento...

How did I like this?
It was surprisingly relatable and less artsy-fartsy than I was expecting.

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

Pitch Perfect 2 (2015)

Title: Pitch Perfect 2
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Release Date: May 15, 2015
Genre(s): Musical, Comedy
Production Co.: Universal Pictures
Director: Elizabeth Banks
Starring: Anna Kendrick, Rebel Wilson, Hailee Steinfeld


Who would I recommend this to?
Fans of rauchy girl comedies.

What is this about?
Collegiate acca pella singers gone bad.

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

Where does it take place?
Barden University and Copenhagen.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I liked the first one, and it was available on my flight home.

How did I like this?
It was fun, but I felt like it was trying too hard to recapture the greatness of the first movie. They relied too heavily on repeating the same type of jokes over and over, making some of the girls caricatures rather than interesting characters. I did appreciate them trying to flesh out some of the other characters, but it did make the plot a bit messy as there was way too much going on.

Have you seen Pitch Perfect 2? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Paddington 2 (2017)

Title: Paddington 2
Rating: PG
Run Time: 1 hour 43 minutes
Release Date: November 5, 2017
Genre(s): Comedy, Fantasy
Production Co.: StudioCanal
Director: Paul King
Starring: Ben Whishaw, Hugh Grant, Hugh Bonneville


Who would I recommend this to?
Everyone.

What is this about?
A talking bear goes to prison.

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

Where does it take place?
London, England.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I adored the first one, and it was available on my flight home.

How did I like this?
It's so cute! I'm still shocked I hadn't seen these movies before. I was absolutely not prepared for Paddington to go to prison and have grand adventures there!

Have you seen Paddington 2? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022)

Title: Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
Rating: PG
Run Time: 1 hour 42 minutes
Release Date: December 21, 2022
Genre(s): Animation, Comedy, Adventure
Production Co.: Dreamworks Animation
Director: Joel Crawford, Januel Mercado
Starring: Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek, Harvey Guillen


Who would I recommend this to?
Everyone.

What is this about?
An adventuring kitty is on his last life, so must hunt down the Wishing Star to avoid death!

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

Where does it take place?
The Dark Forest.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because I like the first one, and heard amazing things.

How did I like this?
What was that animation style?! OMG! It's so good! It's like a 3D storybook! The story is really good too. Totally fitting for Puss to want to avoid Death at all costs. It made me cry multiple times.

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

Moulin Rouge! (2001)

Title: Moulin Rouge!
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 2 hour 7 minutes
Release Date: June 1, 2001
Genre(s): Drama, Romance, Musical
Production Co.: Twentieth Century Fox
Director: Baz Luhrmann
Starring: Nicole Kidman, Ewan McGregor, John Leguizamo


Who would I recommend this to?
The world.

What is this about?
The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.

When would be a good time to watch this?
All the time.

Where does it take place?
Paris.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I grabbed the DVD at Costco when it came out and watched it everyday while we didn't have cable.

How did I like this?
Obviously, I am obsessed with this movie. The music is A+, the story is engaging, it's funny, and sad, and I cannot stop! El Tango de Roxanne is the bestest.

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

Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023)

Title: Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 2 hours 4 minutes
Release Date: February 17, 2023
Genre(s): Action, Sci-Fi
Production Co.: Marvel Studios
Director: Peyton Reed
Starring: Paul Rudd, Evangeline Lillly, Michelle Pfeiffer


Who would I recommend this to?
Fans of the other two.

What is this about?
Michelle Pfeiffer being hot...and getting sucked into the quantum realm to fight a war.

When would be a good time to watch this?
After the other two.

Where does it take place?
The quantum realm.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I'm trying to keep up with the Marvel movies.

How did I like this?
Definitely one of the better Marvel movies, since it doesn't feel like a Marvel movie. More like a high budget SyFy Channel movie. It was fun and kept my attention the whole time. Although I'm unsure if I was suppose to take the Ultimate Weapon seriously or not, because he was very '90s Power Rangers.

And are you trying to tell me that The Conqueror was able to use all of his tech knowledge to build all that, but he needed Ant-Man to solve his main problem? I had trouble believing that.

Have you seen Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)

Title: Spider-Man: Homecoming
Rating: PG-13
Run Time: 2 hours 13 minutes
Release Date: July 7, 2017
Genre(s): Action, Sci-Fi
Production Co.: Marvel Studios, Columbia Pictures
Director: Jon Watts
Starring: Tom Holland, Michael Keaton, Robert Downey Jr.


Who would I recommend this to?
Teen action movie fans.

What is this about?
A young boy with spider powers trying to save his city from evil.

When would be a good time to watch this?
On your next movie night.

Where does it take place?
New York.

Why did I decide to watch this?
It's finally on Disney+.

How did I like this?
 Easily the best of the Marvel movies! It was so fun! And I honestly did not even think about the twist! What?!

But...why was Zendaya in this? I like her in general, but this role? Just...why? I mean, I guess they cleared it up at the end, but she still makes no sense.

Have you seen Spider-Man: Homecoming? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars - Season 1 (2012)

Title: RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars - Season 1
Rating: TV-14
Run Time: 1 hour
Release Date: October 22, 2021
Genre(s): Series, Reality, LGBTQ+
Production Co.: World of Wonder Productions
Starring: RuPaul, Michelle Visage, Santino Rice


Who would I recommend this to?
Drag Race fans.

What is this about?
Past contestants compete to become the first Drag Race All Star.

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

Where does it take place?
The workroom and main stage.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I've never seen it!

How did I like this?
Raven totally won. There...I said it. I can understand Chad winning, and I already knew that going in, but still. I fell in love with Raven this season. But I'm so glad they never did this competing in pairs thing ever again. I know it was to fit all those queens into six episodes, but it wasn't a fair competition.

Have you seen RuPaul's Drag Race All Stars? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

The King's Daughter (2022)

Title: The King's Daughter
Rating: PG
Run Time: 1 hour 38 minutes
Release Date: January 21, 2022
Genre(s): Fantasy, Romance, Drama
Production Co.: Lightstream Pictures Australia
Director: Sean MacNamara
Starring:  Pierce Brosnan, Kaya Scodelario, William Hurt


Who would I recommend this to?
Whoever needs brain candy for 98 minutes.

What is this about?
King Louis XIV wants to use a mermaid to become immortal, but his estranged daughter befriends her.

When would be a good time to watch this?
When you have nothing better to do.

Where does it take place?
Versailles.

Why did I decide to watch this?
My mom told me to.

How did I like this?
It was fine. The second half was waaay better than the first. The beginning was framed super awkwardly. Like, Louis' actions toward Marie had a romantic edge to them which I don't think was intentional, but it was very weird. I mean, if this was suppose to be some taboo movie, then fine, but it's not. But after he confesses to being her father, things were more normal and kinda fun.

Have you seen The King's Daughter? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

The Super Mario Bros. Movie (2023)

Title: The Super Mario Bros. Movie
Rating: PG
Run Time: 1 hour 32 minutes
Release Date: April 5, 2023
Genre(s): Animation, Fantasy, Adventure
Production Co.: Illumination, Universal Pictures, Nintendo
Director: Aaron Horvath, Michael Jelenic, Pierre Leduc
Starring:  Christ Pratt, Anya Taylor-Joy, Charlie Day


Who would I recommend this to?
Nintendo fans.

What is this about?
Bowser's proposal to Peach goes terribly wrong.

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

Where does it take place?
Brooklyn and the Mushroom Kingdom.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I've been a Mario fan since forever. Peach and Bowser forever!!!

How did I like this?
It's so fun! It felt exactly like what a Mario movie should be like. Although it did really feel like a special episode of Bridezillas, where the groom is out of control. I am an unapologetic Bowser-Peach shipper, so I was loving it.

I did have two annoyances though. One: shouldn't the blue shell have hit Peach? Two: The Donkey Kong games have the BEST soundtracks, so why replace the music?!

Have you seen The Super Mario Bros. Movie? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story - Season 1 (2023)

Title: Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story
Rating: TV-MA
Run Time: 1 hour
Release Date: May 4, 2023
Genre(s): Historical, Romance, Drama, Series
Production Co.: Shondaland
Director: Tom Verica
Starring: India Amarteifio, Adjoa Andoh, Michelle Fairley


Who would I recommend this to?
Anyone who enjoys period dramas with a little extra.

What is this about?
How Queen Charlotte became Queen Charlotte.

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

Where does it take place?
London, England.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because I loved Bridgerton.

How did I like this?
It gave me emotions! I knew it would, because that one season in Bridgerton got me too. This was super interesting and I might have liked it better than the main series? It was just so heartbreaking and heartwarming!

The racism plotline was...well it was there. I found it kind of odd how they danced around the issue ("You're the first of your kind!"), while vaguely pointing it out and centering it. I get this show is not about handling serious topics, but it was an important plot thread, so...it was odd.

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

Peter Pan & Wendy (2023)

Title: Peter Pan & Wendy
Rating: PG
Run Time: 1 hour 46 minutes
Release Date: April 28, 2023
Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
Production Co.: Walt Disney Pictures
Director: David Lowery
Starring:  Alexander Molony, Ever Anderson, Jude Law


Who would I recommend this to?
People who like to hate-watch things.

What is this about?
Nothing.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Never.

Where does it take place?
Neverland and London.

Why did I decide to watch this?
It's Disney and I always have hope.

How did I like this?
I did not. To be fair, I don't like Peter Pan in general (except Hook), and the original Disney animated film is one of my least favorites of all-time. But I had hope. False hope, but still hope. I liked Tinkerbell and Smee and that is it. Which is sad, because I've always loved Captain Hook, but I don't think Jude Law was given much to work with here. Just let him be evil! He doesn't need to be sympathetic! Just entertaining!

Have you seen Peter Pan & Wendy? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

From Me To You - Season 1 (2023)

Title: From Me To You
Rating: TV-14
Run Time: 30 minutes
Release Date: March 30, 2023
Genre(s): Romance, Drama, Series
Production Co.: Fine Entertainment
Director: Takehiko Shinjo, Takeo Kikuchi
Starring: Sara Minami, Oji Suzuka, Rinka Kumada


Who would I recommend this to?
JDrama fans, I guess. Anyone cheering for the weird girl.

What is this about?
An outcast girl finally finds her people.

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

Where does it take place?
In and around Kitahoro High School.

Why did I decide to watch this?
It looked cute, and I'm always here for the weird girl!

How did I like this?
It was sooo cute! I do wish they leaned into Sawako's weirdness/creepiness more, but it really only shows up in the first and 6th or 7th episodes. I found myself really attached to all of these characters though.

Have you seen From Me To You? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Pokémon Indigo League (1997-1999)

Title: Pokémon Indigo League
Rating: TV-Y7
Run Time: 20 minutes
Release Date: April 1, 1997
Genre(s): Anime, Fantasy, Sci-Fi, Series
Production Co.: GAME FREAK
Creator(s): Junichi Msauda, Ken Sugimori, Satoshi Tajiri
Starring: Veronica Taylor, Rachael Lillis, Eric Stuart


Who would I recommend this to?
The world.

What is this about?
Legal, nonlethal animal fighting...and the friends we made along the way.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Whenever you need something to perk you up.

Where does it take place?
The Kanto region.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because I'm extremely late to the party and thought it was about time I arrived.

How did I like this?
It's so fun! I couldn't believe how many episodes actually made me cry or gasp out loud. I was invested. Sure, the thought that these innocent creatures are being forced to fight for sport kept creeping in. But none of them actually die or get seriously injured. It's all very low stakes...in general. I also grew attached to Ash, and I never realized what a little menace Pikachu is!

Have you seen Pokemon Indigo League? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

Pokémon: The First Movie - Mewtwo Strikes Back (1999)

Title: Pokémon: The First Movie - Mewtwo Strikes Bac
Rating: G
Run Time: 1 hour 36 minutes
Release Date: November 12, 1999
Genre(s): Anime, Fantasy, Sci-Fi
Production Co.: Oriental Light and Magic
Director: Kunihiko Yuyama, Michael Haigney
Starring: Veronica Taylor, Rachael Lillis, Eric Stuart


Who would I recommend this to?
Pokemon fans.

What is this about?
A genetically engineered Pokemon tries to take over the world.

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

Where does it take place?
New Island.

Why did I decide to watch this?
I'm binging Pokemon for the first time.

How did I like this?
 That was way more intense than I was expecting! Kind of dark, but fit the story being told. And yes, I cried even though I knew everything would turn out fine. I just can't stand to see Pikachu upset!

Have you seen Mewtwo Strikes Back? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?

RuPaul's Drag Race - Season 15 (2022-23)

Title: RuPaul's Drag Race - Season 15
Rating: TV-14
Run Time: 1 hour
Release Date: December 13, 2022
Genre(s): Reality, Series, LGBTQ+
Production Co.: World of Wonder Productions
Starring: RuPaul, Michelle Visage, Ross Mathews, Carson Kressley


Who would I recommend this to?
Fans of drag and reality competitions.

What is this about?
Drag queens compete to be crowned America's next drag superstar!

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

Where does it take place?
The main stage!

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because it's one of my favorite shows!

How did I like this?
This was a pretty mid season for me. I like a lot of the queens, but I didn't have a standout. I would say that my favorites were Anetra, Luxx, and Sasha though. Although I didn't find myself hoping too hard for one of them to beat the others.

The first part of the season felt so rushed, but I didn't even realize that the episodes were shorter than usual! What the heck, MTV?! There was no breathing room! But that Rusical was super good! One of my favorites!

Have you seen RuPaul's Drag Race? What did you think?

If not, would you watch it?

 

Paddington (2014)

Title: Paddington
Rating: PG
Run Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Release Date: November 23, 2014
Genre(s): Fantasy, Comedy
Production Co.: StudioCanal
Director: Paul King
Starring: Hugh Bonneville, Sally Hawkins, Julie Walters


Who would I recommend this to?
The world.

What is this about?
A small bear from Peru finds big adventure in London.

When would be a good time to watch this?
Now. The world needs light.

Where does it take place?
London, England.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Every now and then it pops up, so I watched it.

How did I like this?
I'm kind of annoyed that I never saw this before! I knew it existed, but just forgot about it. It's so freaking cute! There is no way to not love Paddington; he's just so sweet! Sure, the plot is kind of predictable, but it has heart! So much heart! Yes, I cried.

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

Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical (2022)

Title: Roald Dahl's Matilda the Musical
Rating:  PG
Run Time: 1 hour 57 minutes
Release Date: December 25, 2022
Genre(s): Musical, Drama, Fantasy
Production Co.: Netflix
Director: Matthew Warchus
Starring: Alisha Weir, Emma Thompson, Lashana Lynch


Who would I recommend this to?
Not fans of the '90s movie.

What is this about?
A very smart, but neglected girl discovers a power to change her life.

When would be a good time to watch this?
If you have two hours to kill and nothing better to do.

Where does it take place?
The UK somewhere...Truchen Hall school.

Why did I decide to watch this?
Because I love the '90s Matilda movie.

How did I like this?
It was fine. It's really nothing like the movie, since it's based on the stage production which I know nothing about. I do like how it leans into the darker themes, but it's also missing an element of fun. Matilda's storytelling was never explained and just felt like padding which slowed the movie down as a whole.

The songs also aren't great. The only one I really liked was Miss Honey's, and that alphabet song was pretty clever.

Have you seen Matilda the Musical? What did you think?
If not, would you watch it?