Just in Time for Christmas -- Santa’s Magic Toy Bag -- Arrives on DVD on October 21st (Review)

Disclosure: I was sent a screener copy from the vendor in order to write up an honest review. All views shared are mine and mine alone.

Legend Films Proudly Presents

Pre-order now from Amazon for only $14.99

Christmas May Not Happen This Year!

Beloved Holiday Specials Not Seen Since Their Original ’80s TV Broadcast

Showcase the Puppeteering & Voice Talents of Alf’s Paul Fusco

Just in Time for Christmas, On DVD Oct. 21st

It is hard to find a good family friendly Christmas movie to share with the kids.  While I am a fan of the classic cartoons and animated flicks I grew up watching around the holidays, my daughters are a little set in their ways in that they want to see current characters in the movies.  I don't know about you, but some of the holiday movies nowadays lack the magic that ones we used to watch back in the day had. I remember getting excited about Santa's arrival and all things magical and wonderful about Christmas.  Holiday movies were wholesome and even though simple in animation really warmed your heart and had you reaching for these movies year after year.

One holiday movie that is a stand out from my childhood was "Santa's Magic Toy Bag", which aired on television back in 1983.  Prior to this upcoming DVD release, this movie was nearly impossible to find and watch.  Unless your original VHS of the movie, which you recorded off of the television, was still in good playing, then you could only talk about how wonderful this holiday movie and how you wish it was on DVD to share with your children.

Well, now it is and I was so excited recently to surprise my girls and a few of their friends with a screening.  Of the 5 moms who brought their girls, 3 remembered this movie, and were also excited to watch. The other weren't born when it originally aired, and had no idea what I was talking about.  But, once everything settled in tot watch this cute holiday movie, the magic began to happen.  Everyone's undivided attention was on the television, toes and feet were tapping during the musical numbers, and I couldn't help but catch everyone smile during different scenes.  


Overall, it was a fun viewing party, and one that has prompted the other moms to pre-order a copy of this soon to be holiday best seller on a DVD for family, with kids of all ages.  We will definitely be watching this a few more times (at minimum) before Christmas comes.  How about you?i

More about the movie:

"Parents will once again enjoy these beloved, 1980s,  holiday puppet specials – not seen since their original Showtime Network  debut and never before available in any video format. This is a unique chance for families and children to discover them again for the first time!

From Paul Fusco – creator and producer of NBC’s award-winning Alf (1986-1990) and the writer/puppeteer/voice behind the iconic television alien – these popular holiday TV specials showcase classic, wholesome, family entertainment at its best.

First to be released in the series is Santa’s Magic Toy Bag (1983), on DVD Oct. 21.

In Santa’s Magic Toy Bag, Christmas is bustling, festive and exciting for Santa, Mrs. Claus and all the Elves at the North Pole…  Sherman, an aspiring apprentice Elf, tries his best to fit in but can’t seem to do anything right!  He’s worked in nearly every department at the North Pole and has triggered a series of disasters everywhere he goes.

Santa tries to bolster Sherman’s self-esteem by entrusting him with the special task of guarding his Magic Toy Bag until Christmas Eve.  When Sherman accidentally shrinks the bag by washing it, he fears there might not be a Christmas this year … Unless the accident-prone Elf can finally make things right!

Featuring an original holiday soundtrack and the voice and puppeteering talents of Paul Fusco.

Coming Soon in the Holiday Collection From Paul Fusco …

The Valentine’s Day That Almost Wasn’t (1982) — When the sinister Rubella Slime  and her brothers threaten to poison all of Cupid’s love arrows with an evil “hate potion,” Valentine’s Day may be ruined forever!  It’s up to the efforts of Sam Cupid and his Cupid patrol squad to take action and save the holiday.

An Easter Story (1983) — It’s the day before Easter and there aren’t enough eggs to go around this year.  Time is running out for a panicked Easter Bunny to come up with a plan … fortunately his son stumbles upon a unique way to save the day!

A Far-Out Fourth (1983) — Young Carl, who has become disillusioned with the Fourth of July, is abducted by space aliens.  As a captive aboard their ship, he soon realizes the meaning of freedom and the true spirit of the holiday.

A Thanksgiving Tale (1983) — Thanksgiving just might be Tom Turkey’s unlucky day! While on a mission to break into show business, he stumbles upon a group of cats who plan to make him their holiday main course.  When a rival gang of dogs come to his rescue, Tom eventually unites the two sides and teaches them to live in harmony and to be thankful together."

About Legend Films:

Legend Films, headquartered in San Diego, Calif., is a leading distributor of quality home entertainment on DVD, Blu-ray, download and streaming platforms and cable VOD.  Its extensive library of independent and studio titles covers a broad array of genres, including drama, thrillers, mystery, horror, sci-fi, cult, comedy, classic, children’s, holiday specials, sports and other special-interest programming, including the original RiffTrax comedy series from the stars of the beloved cult classic TV series Mystery Science Theater 3000.  Founded in 2001, Legend Films is the pioneer and recognized leader in the restoration and colorization of classic B&W films. The company’s proprietary technology represents some of the most advanced restoration processes in the world, producing full-feature, HD colorization achieved at a resolution and quality that is unsurpassed. Visit us online at www.LegendFilms.com

Santa’s Magic Toy Bag

Legend Films

Genre: Holiday/Family/Kids

Not Rated

Format:  DVD Only

Running Time:  Approx. 30 Minutes (Plus Approx. 10 Minutes of Special Features)

Suggested Retail Price: $14.99

Pre-Order Date:  September 30, 2014

Street Date:  October 21, 2014

Catalog #:  LF00652

UPC Code:  # 8 44503 00297 6

Disclosure: I was sent a screener copy from the vendor in order to write up an honest review. All views shared are mine and mine alone.

Read more »

Must See Family Movie of 2013 -- Lost and Found, Now Available on DVD -- #Giveaway

Disclosure:  I was sent a sample from the vendor in order to write up an honest review.  The views shared are mine and mine alone.

I can't stop talking about how great Lost and Found is.  In addition to a review of the book and DVD, I have also participated in a fun Twitter chat hosted by the author of Lost and Found, Oliver Jeffers.  If you missed my review of Lost and Found, click here to read it now - http://www.inspiredbysavannah.com/2013/10/lostandfounddvd-magical-tale-of.html.

As I started planning for my holiday gift guide, I wondered which movies to include, that could be enjoyed by families that gather for the holidays, as well as watched all year round.  Time and time again, Lost and Found kept coming to mind.  My girls and I love watching this, and the book has become a must read every night at bedtime. :-)

So,  after contacting the folks at Entertainment One, I am happy to offer three (3) lucky readers a chance to win this recent DVD release, for you to enjoy with your family this holiday season and beyond.  I know that once you watch this short animated movie, that you will fall in love with the little boy and his new penguin friend.  Just watch this short trailer to get a feel for this cute family-friendly movie.

Looks good, huh?  It is! :-)



If you don't want to wait to see if you are one of the three (3) lucky readers chosen to receive a DVD copy of this movie, you can head to your local Walmart store, or even order through their online website, and pick up Lost and Found on DVD for only $8.48 -- a steal!

This movie will surely come in handy during the holidays, when you are looking to entertain the guest while you put the finishing touches on the meal, or are cleaning up.  I can't wait to hear what you think of this movie.  So, make sure you head back here after winning or buying it, to let me know.  And, don't forget to tell your family and friends this delightful film about friendship.

---

More About the Movie:

Families will embark on an imagination-inspiring journey alongside a pair of unlikely companions when LOST AND FOUND, the deeply-heartwarming and critically-acclaimed animated film, arrived in the U.S. for the first time ever on DVD (SRP $9.98) and Digital platforms on October 15, 2013 from Entertainment One and is available now to place on every child's Holiday Gift List!  A Winner of more than 60 international awards, as well as a coveted Parents Choice Gold Award, LOST AND FOUND will also air as a holiday special on Nick Jr.® 

Based on the internationally best-selling children's book by award-winning author, Oliver Jeffers, whose newest book has just captured the #1 spot on the New York Times Best Sellers list, the standout production was adapted and directed by Philip Hunt and features endearing narration by Academy Award®-winner Jim Broadbent (Harry Potter, Gangs of New York, Moulin Rouge), stunning CGI animation from Studio AKA, and a charming musical score by esteemed composer Max Richter (Shutter Island).  LOST AND FOUND brilliantly transports viewers from the 2D pages of the storybook to a rich and immersive world that will have both young and old alike mesmerized and brought to tears.  With more than five dozen international awards under its cap, the remarkable film is sure to find its way into audiences' hearts with its universal and timeless message of the true value of friendship.  

Originally inspired by the real-life story of a little boy in Belfast, Ireland, who somehow managed to sneak a penguin out of the zoo during a class trip and all the way home to his bathtub before anyone noticed, LOST AND FOUND tells the unforgettable story of a little boy who one day finds a penguin on his doorstep.  Assuming that the unexpected visitor must have lost his way, the thoughtful and determined boy takes up the noble task of bringing the penguin back home - even if it means rowing all the way to the South Pole! But when the pair finally arrive at their destination, the boy soon discovers that maybe the penguin wasn't really lost after all.  Maybe he was just lonely... And maybe he wasn't the only one. 

Gentle and uplifting in equal measure, LOST AND FOUND provides families with a welcome alternative t0today's more frenetic on-screen entertainment options for kids. In addition to the movie, the DVD contains a special "Making of" featurette, showcasing interviews with Jeffers, as well as key members of the production and creative teams. The segment offers viewers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the various elements that seamlessly come together to bring this dynamic film to memorable life.

--GIVEAWAY--

Like I said, three (3) readers will win a DVD copy of the new release, Lost and Found, to enjoy with their family.  To enter, please complete the entries on the Rafflecopter form below.  Good luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway



Disclosure:  I was sent a sample from the vendor in order to write up an honest review.  The views shared are mine and mine alone.

Read more »

Available To Own For The First Time On 5-Disc Blu-ray™ 3D Combo Pack -- Monsters, Inc. (Review)

Available To Own For The First Time On 5-Disc Blu-ray™ 3D Combo Pack

“Ultimate Collector’s Edition” -- Debuts February 19, 2013

"“Monsters, Inc.,” one of Disney•Pixar’s most beloved and visually imaginative feature films, arrives for the first time on Blu-ray 3D in the “Ultimate Collector’s Edition” 5-Disc Combo Pack on February 19, 2013.

In addition to hours of delightful bonus features, the “Monsters, Inc.” Blu-ray 3D
“Ultimate Collector’s Edition” features a sneak peek at the upcoming all-new Disney•Pixar release “Monsters University.”

The now-classic Academy Award®-winning animated comedy adventure “Monsters, Inc.” is set in Monstropolis, a thriving company town where monsters of all shapes and sizes reside. Lovable Sulley (voiced by John Goodman) and his wisecracking best friend Mike Wazowski (voiced by Billy Crystal) are the top scare team at Monsters, Inc., the largest scream-processing factory. The main power source in the monster world is the collected screams of human children—and at Monsters, Inc., an elite team of scarers is responsible for gathering those precious natural resources.

Believed by monsters to be toxic, children are strictly forbidden from entering Monstropolis.  But when a little girl named Boo (voiced by Mary Gibbs) accidentally follows Sulley back into his world, he finds his career in jeopardy and his life in utter chaos. Assisted by Mike, the two pals plot to rectify the mistake and return Boo to her home.  When the trio encounters an unexpected series of complications, they become embroiled in a cover-up catapulting them into a mystery beyond their wildest dreams.

Directed by Oscar®-winner Pete Docter (“Up”) and produced by Oscar nominee Darla K. Anderson (“Toy Story 3”), “Monsters, Inc.” features a screenplay by Andrew Stanton and Daniel Gerson and music by Randy Newman."

                                                               

Cast:                                       John Goodman as the voice of James P. Sullivan “Sulley”

                                                Billy Crystal as the voice of Mike Wazowski

                                                Mary Gibbs as the voice of Boo 

                                                Steve Buscemi as the voice of Randall Boggs

                                                James Coburn as the voice of Henry J. Waternoose

                                                Jennifer Tilly as the voice of Celia

                                                Bob Peterson as the voice of Roz

                                                John Ratzenberger as the voice of The Abominable Snowman

                                                Frank Oz as the singing voice of Fungus

Director:                                Pete Docter

Co-directors:                        David Silverman, Lee Unkrich

Executive Producers:          John Lasseter, Andrew Stanton

Original Story By:                 Peter Docter, Jill Culton, Jeff Pidgeon and Ralph Eggleston

Blu-ray Contents:                 Disney Enhanced HD Picture and Sound

                                                “Monsters University” Sneak Peek

                                                Toy Story Toons: “Partysaurus Rex”

                                                “For The Birds” Short

                                                “Mike’s New Car” Short

                                                Filmmakers Round Table

                                                Audio Commentary

                                                Roz’s 100 Door Challenge Game

                                                Pixar Fun Factory Tower

                                                Banished Concepts

DVD Contents:                      Audio Commentary

Street Date:                          February 19, 2013

                                                Direct Prebook: December 25, 2012

                                                Distributor Prebook:  January 8, 2013

Rating:                                    “G” in the U.S. and Canada

                                                Bonus material is not rated

Feature Run Time:               Approx. 92 minutes

Suggested Retail                   “Ultimate Collector’s Edition” 5-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack

Prices:                                    (Blu-ray 3D + 2 Blu-ray Discs + DVD + Digital Copy)

                                                $49.99 U.S. and $56.99 Canada

                                               

                                                3-Disc Blu-ray Combo Pack

                                                (2 Blu-ray Discs + DVD)

                                                $39.99 U.S. and $46.99 Canada

Aspect Ratio:                        Blu-ray 3D:  1.85:1 1080p High Definition

Blu-ray:  1.85:1 1080p High Definition

                                                DVD:  1.85:1

Sound:                                   Blu-ray 3D: English 7.1 Dolby TrueHD; Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital EX; French 7.1 Dolby Digital Plus

                                                Blu-ray: English 7.1 Dolby TrueHD; Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital EX; French 7.1 Dolby Digital Plus

                                                DVD: English 5.1 Dolby, Spanish and French 5.1 Dolby Digital

Subtitles:                               Blu-ray 3D, Blu-ray & DVD: English, French and Spanish

               

------

My Thoughts: 

Now, I am not going to bore you with a review of this movie, as you have probably seen at a million times like we have. :-)  Monsters, Inc. is one of Pixar's most popular movies, which both parents and children enjoy watching together.  I know as my husband and I used to love watching it before we had children, and now more than ever with the girls.  And, with a new Monsters, Inc. movie releasing in theaters this summer, titled "Monsters University," I am guessing fans of this movie will be flocking to pick up this new Ultimate Collector's Edition, 5 Disc DVD set to watch prior to the June theater release.  And, if you have a 3D Blu-ray player and 3D television, you will be in for a treat, as this is the first time that Monster's, Inc. is available in 3D format for at-home family viewing.  

We don't have 3D capabilities in our house, but our neighbor does.  So, this past weekend when the big snow storm hit the East Coast, my neighbor and I used this as a great way to entertain our children by making popcorn and having a neighborhood movie night for families to come together and watch Monsters, Inc. in 3D.  All I have to say is "Wow!" It is one thing to see this movie in regular format, but once you add 3D effects, it makes it that much more enjoyable.  

And, if you are fans of Toy Story, then you will love the bonus short feature the lovable dinosaur Rex, as he throws a party.  Even though we saw this short in theaters, my girls can't get enough of Rex and couldn't stop laughing at the short.

With all the bonus features which are included on this 5 disc collection, you will find your family entertained for hours.  We especially loved the Pixar Fun Factory Tour and Roz's 100 Door Challenge Game, which is available on the Blu-Ray disc.  In addition to all these bonus features and a great movie you will find yourself watching over and over again, and not getting tired of, those who purchase this DVD set will also get a FREE movie pass for one to see Monsters University when it arrives in theaters this summer.  All you have to do to redeem is enter the Magic Code online and print out your pass.  Now, has is that for a cool deal? :-)

So, mark your calendars and head to your favorite local retailer on Feb. 19th, when this new Blu-Ray/DVD/3D Blu-Ray Combo Collections Edition hits store shelves.  Or, pre-order through your favorite online retailer now and sit back and wait for Monsters, Inc. to arrive at your door next week. Either way, you will be in for a treat when you sit down and watch this movie with your entire family -- in regular format or 3D.

Disclosure: I was sent a copy of this product from the vendor in order to write up an honest review.  The views above are mine and mine alone.

Read more »

Coming Soon to DVD from Echo Bridge Entertainment (Review)

MARK TWAIN ORIGINAL FAMILY CLASSICS

 

Suggested Retail Price --$9.99.

Synopsis

HUCKLEBERRY FINN
 

"Always in a bind, Huckleberry Finn (Ron Howard) has learned to think on his feet. When his drunken father kidnaps him, Huck fakes his own death and escapes down the wild Mississippi. While on the run, Huck teams up with his old friend, Jim, a slave headed to free territory. Together they encounter every kind of adventure imaginable—from a hoax involving a pair of lying crooks, to hunters looking for the runaway Jim, and even a dangerous escapade with Huckleberry's pal, Tom Sawyer. It's nonstop excitement as the river takes Huck to places he never dreamed of."

THE ADVENTURES OF TOM SAWYER
 
"In his small Missouri town, Tom Sawyer is a big troublemaker. When he's not tricking others into doing his work, he's upsetting his Aunt Polly, or wooing his young love, Becky. But sometimes Tom's mischief gets him in over his head, and when he and his pal, Huckleberry Finn, witness a murder, they take a vow of silence and head down the river on a raft. The whole town believes they're dead, so when the boys return, they're in a world of trouble. But trouble's just begun because now the graveyard murder has gone to trial…"

Rated PG; Not Rated / Available in Canada

--- 

My Thoughts:

I remember reading these classics back in school, and then again a few years back.  These two movies have had many movie renditions made over the years -- from family style films to cartoon animated ones.  But, I have to say that these two movies, which make up this upcoming DVD release are the best that I have seen.  If you love Ron Howard the actor, then you will love his performance as Huck Finn.

Families will enjoy sitting down together and watching these movies -- either in one sitting. or spaced out over a couple of weekends.  Then, follow up with a discussion of the classic tale that they have read.  You could pose such questions as "How does this film rate compared to the reading the story?  Do you understand the story more by seeing it come to life in a film?  And, if you live near Hartford, CT or are willing to make a drive here, the Mark Twain house is a great attraction to visit.  My husband and I have visited Mark Twain's house over a dozen times over the years, and learn more and more about the amazing author each time we go.  Just seeing these films makes me want to visit his house again, or pick up his books to read.

Homeschooling parents will also love this 2-movie Mark-Twain feature, as it would make a great add on when it comes time to have your children read these Mark Twain classics.

-----

 

Suggested Retail Price -- $14.99.

Synopsis

THE RON CLARK STORY

An innovative teacher (Matthew Perry) takes risks and dreams big in one of Harlem's toughest classrooms.

MUSIC OF THE HEART

Even after a decade of success stories teaching music to inner-city youth, Roberta Guaspari (Meryl Streep) finds her violin program may be cut.

SOLOMON'S CHOICE

A family is torn when their teenage daughter (Reese Witherspoon) is diagnosed with leukemia and their medically-unstable son is the best bet for a bone marrow transplant.

A SONG FROM THE HEART

When a handsome composer enters the life of blind cellist Maryann Lowery, she learns that her true love has been beside her all along.

LEAVE YESTERDAY BEHIND

A talented young polo player (John Ritter) is left paralyzed and must overcome the obstacles of his injury.

THE MIGHTY

Two teens with disabilities unite and overcome their individual limitations together. Starring Sharon Stone.

Not Rated - Violence, Profanity; Rated PG; Not Rated; Not Rated; Not Rated; Rated PG-13 

---

My Thoughts:

Even though I loved all six movies, I have to say my favorites were "The Ron Clark Story" and "Music of the Heart."  I am not going to waste your time describing the movies, as many of you have probably see most, if not all the movies on this 6 movie DVD release, over the years.  This is one reason I love Echo Bridge Entertainment's DVD's, as they combine great family films onto one DVD, making family movie night fun.  And, with the average cost of a DVD like this going for around $14-$16.00, you can't go wrong with the price, as you get 6 full-length movies.

So, if your family loves family movie night, or you made a resolution for 2013, to spend more time together on weekend or in the evening, why not pick up this or another family-themed DVD from Echo Bridge Entertainment to enjoy together.  

Disclosure: I was sent copies of these DVDs from the vendor in order to write up an honest review.  The views above are mine and mine alone.

Read more »

Little Red Wagon -- A Must See Movie to Start 2013 -- Truly Inspiring (Review and Giveaway)

GENRE: Family, Inspirational

CAST: Anna Gunn ("Breaking Bad," Red State), Chandler Canterbury (The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, "Criminal Minds"), Frances O'Connor (The Hunter, "Ice")

DIRECTOR: David Anspaugh

PRODUCER: Michael Guillen

WRITER: Patrick Sheane Duncan

SYNOPSIS: "Little Red Wagon is based on the inspirational true story of eight year old Zach Bonner on his quest to change the world with nothing more than his beat-up red wagon and a blazing spirit of philanthropy. When Zach sets out to help homeless children in America in the wake of Hurricane Charley, by walking from his house in Tampa, Florida to the White House, he must overcome bureaucrats and blisters and capture the hearts of his fractured family and the entire nation."

 -----

 

My Thoughts:

My husband and I were looking for a movie to watch for family movie night.  Usually we watch one of the girls' Disney movies, and then when they go to bed, we will watch another family movie to wind down from a crazy day.  Luckily, earlier in the day I received a screener copy of Little Red Wagon.  At first I forgot what it was about, but as soon as the movie began I remembered the movie, and told my husband that this was the perfect inspirational movie to start the year off with -- and, it was! :-)
 
Little Red Wagon is about an eight year old boy, named Zach Bonner (played by Chandler Canterbury), who lives in Tampa, FL with her mom (played by Anna Gunn), and 16-year old sister, Kelley (played by Daveigh Chase).  In 2004, the Florida Coast got hit by Hurricane Charley, leaving many families homeless, as a result of the storm.  When Zach saw the newscast about the damage and those who lost everything and were now homeless, he wanted to do something to help.  He thought he would be able to collect enough water, clothing, food and other supplies, and began traveling around his neighborhood and surrounding area transporting these much needed supplies in his little red wagon.  I liked the scene in the movie where is mom pulled into the driveway and saw his wagon full of water and supplies.  Then, he told her that this wasn't all of it, and then opened the garage door.  The entire garage floor was filled with supplies he had gathered and that were given to him.  It was truly an inspiring moment to see how one little boy's desire to help those in need produced a garage full of supplies.  As I watched this movie, I couldn't help but think about the recent Hurricane Sandy, which hit NJ and NY and left many people homeless (even to this day as they are waiting for Hurricane Relief Funds).  I wondered if there were other children or families who thought about helping in the capacity like Zach Bonner did, to help gather up must needed supplies to give to those without?  

As the movie progressed, we saw how Zach's initial desire to help those affected by Hurricane Charley, resulted in him founded the Little Red Wagon Foundation.  Zach is one of the youngest to create a non-profit, which in itself is truly remarkable.  The Little Red Wagon Foundation create “Zach Packs" -- backpacks filled with life’s bare essentials – plus a toy, to show homeless kids that someone cares about them.  In addition to gathering up supplies for Hurricane Charlie victims,  Zach also decides he will walk from Tampa to Tallahassee, to bring help, hope and shed light on the increasing number of homeless youth in America.  Will he fulfill this goal?  And, will his family stand behind him and his efforts?  You will have to pick up this movie and watch for yourself. :-)  And, when you are done watching it with your family, you will inspired to want to help those in need by donating money or supplies, volunteering, etc.  So, instead of choosing to lose weight, save for trip, etc. as your New Year's resolution, why not choose to help those in need?  Zach's story will definitely inspire you to want to do great things. :-)

---GIVEAWAY---

Two (2) lucky readers will win a DVD copy of Little Red Wagon to watch with their family.  To enter this giveaway, please complete the entries on the Rafflecopter form below.  Good luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I was sent a screener copy from the vendor in order to write up an honest review.  The views above are mine and mine alone.

Read more »