Catalogue ‒ Family Friendly Part 3 - Legacy DVD

Transcription

Catalogue – Family Friendly
Part 3
Synopsis: - Based on Beverly Cleary's popular series, "Ramona and Beezus" follows the gradeschooler through a year of trials and challenges. When her father is fired from his job and the
neighbor's son returns from years of world travels, Ramona worries about the bank taking
their house and the handsome neighbor stealing her Aunt Bea's heart. She embarks on a series
of schemes to save the house, save her dad and save Aunt Bea from being "reeled in" by the
neighbor. - As a sweet kid with a penchant for disaster, Ramona manages to get into a lot of
trouble and upset the family, which eventually causes her to run away; but in the end, it's her
family who reels her back in.
Ramona and Beezus
90 Minutes
Age Restrictions: PG
Categories: Adventure
Dove Worldview: - This cute and heartwarming film is about the strength of family in tough
times. Even though Ramona and Beezus don't always get along - and in fact the older gets mad
at the younger in classic sibling style - they also band together when times are hard. Beezus
pretends to be a bit of a tough teenager, yet she protects and stands up for her sister when the
younger is in trouble. Similarly, Ramona stands by her dad and helps him keep his confidence
and creativity after his devastating job loss.
The episodes in the film are typical children's fare and represent perfectly what it is to be in the
magical reality of kid-dom, on the verge of leaving childhood behind: Ramona wants to help,
but usually ends up making a mess of things when she does. Of course, it is only through these
lessons of trial-and-error that she can ever truly grow up. We are more than pleased to award
our Dove "Family-Approved" Seal to this imaginative movie.
Company: 20th Century Fox - Walden Media, Writer: Laurie Craig, Nick Pustay, Director:
Elizabeth Allen, Producer: Denise Di Novi, Alison Greenspan, Brad Van Arragon
Genre: Family, Runtime: 104 min. , MPAA Rating: G
Starring: Joey King, Selena Gomez, John Corbett, Bridget Moynahan, Josh Duhamel, Ginnifer
Goodwin
Synopsis: - Dr. D. (Eddie Murphy) revives his role as the famous doctor who can talk to the
animals and now has so many patients it monopolizes his time and draws his attention away
from his wife (Kristen Wilson) and his daughters (Raven Symone and Kyla Pratt). When one of
the animals asks Dr. D to make a house call to the forest, the doc discovers the damage and
danger greedy land developers are doing to their habitat. The doc develops a plan to save the
forest by creating an endangered species law to protect the endangered Pacific Western Bear.
He convinces a performing bear named Archie (Steve Zahn) to mate with the wild bear Ava
(Lisa Kudrow) in order to save the forest, but the matchmaking runs into a few complications.
The cast of animal extras include Lucky the dog (Norm Macdonald); the intoxicated monkey
(Phil Proctor); a Mafioso raccoon (Michael Rapaport); a Mafioso Weasel (Andy Dick); and a
hilarious frustrated chameleon (Jacob Vargas) among many others.
Dr Dolittle 2
81 Minutes
Dove Worldview: - Continuing the funny premise that humans can hear animals talk makes
this sequel a fun and lighthearted story about how important it is to stick together and help
each other out. The comedy is skewed from an animal's perspective and ranges everything
from domesticated animals seeking therapy, to animals in the wild telling how their quality of
life is changing with man invading their natural domain.
Murphy reprises a role that has made him famous with kids and teens all over the world, and
one that allows him to use his trademark style of comedy. This time the story expands to
include the dilemmas a father faces with a teenage daughter who has 'attitude' and a boyfriend
(recording artist Lil' Zane). But the real stars that make this movie funny (and interesting) are
the animals themselves, who (with the help of digital animation techniques) move their
mouths, animate their emotions, and reference characters and parody scenes from other
movies. One of the funniest is a frustrated chameleon that can't seem to "blend in" with his
new environment.
Reviewer: Holly McClure, Source: Theater , Company: 20th Century Fox , Writer: Larry, Levin
Director: Steve Carr , Producer: John Davis, Joseph Singer
Genre: Comedy , Runtime: 81 min. , MPAA Rating: PG
Starring: Eddie Murphy, Kristen Wilson, Jeffrey Jones, Kevin Pollak
Synopsis: - How do you explain the fact that Annie, a homeless Springer Spaniel, has a healing
effect on people? Charlie Logan has just moved to Ohio where his parents have taken jobs at
the prestigious Cleveland Clinic. Lonely and in need of a good friend, he finds the three-legged
Annie and her puppies and goes on a modern-day quest in search of permanent homes for the
dogs before it's too late. Based on the best selling children's book Annie Loses her Leg but
Finds her Way by Sandra J. Philipson.
Miracle Dogs
105 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
Dove Worldview: - They say that animals can help ill and aging people heal faster. Here is a
cute story about a Springer Spaniel named Annie and her puppies that change a lot of peoples
lives; even Charlie's. It will put a smile on every face as you sit back and watch this fun family
film. Moving can always be tough on a family, especially children. Annie and her puppies fill
the void in Charlie's life left by the move. As Charlie looks for homes for his new friends, he
makes changes in his life along with the help of others. The story will become endearing to all
who watch it. "Miracle Dogs" will be one of those favorites that I will watch over and over
again.
Company: UAV Entertainment, Writer: Craig Clyde, Director: Craig Clyde, Producer: Bryce
Fillmore, Tag Entertainment
Genre: Family, Runtime: 105 min. , MPAA Rating: Unrated
Starring: Kate Jackson, Ted Shackelford, Stacy Keach, Rue McClanahan, Daniel Roebuck, Alana
Austin, K.C. Clyde, Wayne Rogers
Synopsis: - A big-screen adaptation of Perry's hit stage play of the same title, "Why Did I Get
Married?" is an intimate story about the difficulty of maintaining a solid love relationship in
modern times. During a trip to the picturesque snowcapped mountains of Colorado, eight
married college friends have gathered for their annual seven-day reunion. But the cozy mood
is shattered when the group comes face-to-face with one pair's infidelity. As secrets are
revealed, each couple begins questioning the validity of their own marriage. Over the course
of the weekend, husbands and wives take a hard look at their lives, wrestling with issues of
commitment, betrayal and forgiveness as they seek a way forward.
Why did I get Married
113 Minutes
Age Restrictions: PG13
Categories: Drama
Dove Worldview: - When I was asked to review this movie I did not know what to expect. But
I have to admit it was more than I had hoped for. I am sure that a lot of people have asked the
question that the title reveals from time to time in their lives. Tyler Perry has relayed an
interesting story about four couples and the interaction between their lives that answer this
question, making the audience laugh and cry through different situations these couples
endure.
Also there is a great message at the end of the movie: "There are three things important in a
relationship: love God first, love yourself second and then love others.
Reviewer: Donna Rolfe, Company: Lionsgate, Writer: Tyler Perry, Director: Tyler Perry,
Producer: Reuben Cannon , Starring: Tyler Perry, Janet Jackson, Jill Scott
Genre: Comedy, Runtime: 113 min., MPAA Rating: PG-13
His mother gave him the courage, his faith helped him believe, his brilliance
gave him the power to change lives.
Synopsis: - A frustrated young boy with problems in school overcomes the obstacles in his life
to become a world-renowned neurosurgeon in the movie GIFTED HANDS: THE BEN
CARSON STORY. This uplifting and inspirational story that stars Oscar winner Cuba Gooding
Jr. (Jerry Maguire) and two-time NAACP Image Award winner Kimberly Elise (The Great
Debaters, The Manchurian Candidate). It is based on the true story of Dr. Benjamin S. Carson,
whose lifelong journey led him to become director of pediatric neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins
Children's Center, a best-selling author and a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Gifted Hands-The Ben
Carson Story
90 Minutes
Age Restrictions: PG13
Categories: Drama
Dove Worldview: - Here's the good news: this movie brings you to the edge of your seat at
times and you will want to see what happens next. The bad news is that it contains strong
language outside of Dove's recommendation. Based on the true story of a world renown
Pediatric Neurosurgeon, this story tells how one young man overcomes many obstacles to
prove that with faith and encouragement anything is possible. Raised in a time when
prejudices were voiced at every turn, this young man shows that you can get beyond any
challenge if you want to, though hard work.
This is a very encouraging movie promoting believing in miracles, yourself and in others.
There are many wonderful faith-based messages in this movie.
Theatrical Release: 2/7/2009, Video Release: 9/8/2009, Reviewer: Donna Rolfe, Writer: John
Pielmeier, Director: Thomas Carter
Genre: Drama, Runtime: 90 min., MPAA Rating: Unrated
Starring: Cuba Gooding Jr, Kimberly Elise, Aunjanve Ellis, Thomas Carter, Dan Angel,
Margaret Loesch, Bruce Stein, John Pielmeier
Synopsis: - A powerful financial executive whose career was sent spiraling down the drain
due to sudden lack of confidence finds the answers to his inexplicable setback in an imaginary
world dreamt up by his young daughter in a fantasy comedy starring Eddie Murphy and coscripted by Ed Solomon and Chris Matheson (the writing duo behind "Bill and Ted's Excellent
Adventure" and "Bill and Ted's Bogus Journey").
Imagine That
103 Minutes
Categories: Comedy
Dove Worldview: - This is a good movie for fathers and daughters to enjoy as well as the
entire family. It includes a great scene in which a father and daughter make pancakes and
every topping imaginable winds up on them including mustard! Eddie Murphy plays a father
named Evan who doesn't give enough attention to his daughter, Olivia. He loves her but is
caught up in his job, trying to compete against a man known as Mr. Whitefeather (Thomas
Haden Church), who always seems to have a gimmick to sell the clients. When Olivia comes to
stay for awhile with Evan (he and his wife are divorced) he is astonished to learn that her
make-believe friends, who are brought to them by her magical blanket, have great financial
advice! He begins to move ahead in his job by having Olivia consult her friends. In the process,
father and daughter get closer. His ignorance as a father is obvious in one humorous scene
when he sees the TV program "Blue's Clues" and tells his daughter to watch "Barney" on TV!
There are a few name calling scenes in the film, and a man who claims to be a Native
American makes some stereotypical Indian jokes. However, the development of Murphy's
character, Evan, is fun to watch and Murphy has the ability to twist his face into all kinds of
funny faces. And he becomes a really good dad. Eddie Murphy takes a good turn in this
family-friendly film. This movie does go for the cutes in a few scenes, but it is really funny.
Imagine that.
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Theater , Company: Paramount, Writer: Ed Solomon
and Chris Matheson , Director: Karey Kirkpatrick, Producer: Lorenzo di Bonaventura
Genre:
Comedy,
Runtime:
107
min.
,
MPAA
Rating:
PG
Starring: Eddie Murphy, Bobb'e J. Thompson, Thomas Haden Church
Synopsis: - When he moves to a new town, Scotty (Tom Guiry) desperately wants to fit in, and
it seems the only way to do so is in joining the sandlot ball team. If only he could play
baseball! Fortunately, he befriends the team's best player, who, with great patience, teaches
Scotty what he needs to know, thus launching the finest summer of Scotty's young life - so far.
The Sandlot
105 Minutes
Dove Worldview: - "The Sandlot" was a great baseball film. The acting was a little poor but
consists of a group of young kids who I am sure tried really hard. If you can overlook that,
along with some crude language, this is a good family film. "Sandlot" follows a group of
young boys who play baseball pretty much everyday during the summer. When a new boy
moves into the neighborhood and has a hard time making friends, one of the baseball players
takes him under his wing and teaches him how to play the game. There are many silly
situations that the boys get themselves into, situations that you expect of young boys. The film
was entertaining and captured some of the real fears that young children have. I recommend
you sit down, kick back and relax as you watch this with your children ages twelve and above.
Company: 20th Century Fox Home Ent., Writer: David Evans, Robert Gunter, Director: David
Evans, Producer: Dale De La Torre, Willaim S, Gilmore
Genre: Family, Runtime: 105 min., MPAA Rating: PG
Starring: Patrick Renna, Marty York, Tom Guiry, Mike Vitar
Synopsis:- James Earl Jones ("Field of Dreams") reprises his role from "The Sandlot" in this
fun-filled sequel that proves the power of teamwork and celebrates the magic of friendship.
Ten years after the original story, the local dirt field is now "home" to a new group of
neighborhood kids who get together to share laughs, show off...and play ball! But the gang
faces their toughest challenge as they try to retrieve an irreplaceable model rocket that lands in
the junkyard behind left field -- a forbidden territory guarded by the legendary, growling,
slobbering beast known as "The Great Fear."
The Sandlot 2
99 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
Dove Worldview:- Kids will certainly enjoy this sequel because it contains all the elements
that kids like including baseball, fireworks, and a legendary challenge that the whole
neighborhood faces together. It also has fun jokes, the "bad" kid and his gang, and some great
music. I must say that there is some classic 70s music in this film that I enjoyed listening to.
The plot is similar to the first movie but with different kids that have similar problems. My 16year old son watched "The Sandlot 2" with me and was many times guessing what was going
to happen next. But over the years he has probably watched "The Sandlot" about 10 or 15
times, so he was very familiar with the premise. For those kids that want to get a second
helping of "The Sandlot," this sequel will be a big hit and maybe even a home-run over the leftfield junkyard fence where The Great Fear resides.
Reviewer: Dave Lukens, Source: Video, Company: 20th Century Fox Home Ent., Writer:
David Mickey Evans, Director: Dave Evans,
Genre: Family , Runtime: 97 min. , MPAA Rating: Unrated
Starring: James Earl Jones, Greg Germann, Brett Kelly
Synopsis:- Major League Baseball superstar Tommy “Santa” Santorelli (Perry) racks up great
numbers at the plate, but his “me-first” attitude drags his team down. But Tommy gets a
second chance when he’s knocked unconscious and wakes up as a 12-year-old on his
childhood playing field…the sandlot! Now, with a greedy developer, Earl Needman,
threatening to bulldoze the sandlot unless Tommy’s ragtag friends can beat Needman’s muchbetter team, Tommy must decide whether to put his own interests first by switching teams…or
stay true to his friends by leading them to their greatest victory yet!
Dove Worldview:- This film has the typical gross humor in a movie dished out for twelve year
olds and teens, i.e. flatulence, comments like "buttface," and a kid who is hit in the privates
with a baseball. The plot includes some kids sneaking in to see a movie, and the sheriff, who
knows, allows it. They do get caught and flee for their lives not long after the movie begins.
The Sandlot 3
The good news is that the film does have a moral. Baseball great Tommy Santorelli, an
egotitistical chump who is a superstar player on the Dodgers, goes back in time when he is hit
in the head with a pitch in batting practice. Suddenly it is 1976 and young Tommy is in his
93 Minutes
teens and living with his mom again, the mother he lost to cancer. As he teaches the local
sandlot team how to really play baseball, the team improves and he begins to form a bond
with them. The team faces its greatest challenge when they must win a game against a rival
team, whose coach is determined to purchase the sandlot and bulldoze it for greedy purposes.
Tommy doesn't want to entirely change history--he still wants to be a superstar, but suddenly
he realizes that he has many of his priorities out of place. This film is awarded three doves and
we recommend it for ages twelve and above due to the gross humor and a son's backtalk to his
father. It also has some great music from the 70s. Kids who love baseball will enjoying hanging
out on this sandlot for an hour and a half!
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Video , Company: 20th Century Fox , Writer: Allie
Dvorin and Keith Mitchell, Director: William Dear, Producer: Jon Kuyper
Genre: Family , Runtime: 96 min.,
Starring: Danny Nucci, Luke Perry, Sarah Deakins
A divine love story for all eternity...
Based on a true story that rocked the world of capital punishment. An emotional journey that
takes a convicted pick-axe killer and former prostitute from the depths of despair, to personal
triumph on Texas death row.
Forevermore is a powerful story of love and forgiveness. Karla becomes a media giant, a
poster girl for Christian restoration and Texas' worst nightmare as the first woman to be
executed in over 100 years. The race is on to save her life.
Miracle of the Heart
88 Minutes
Categories: Drama
With the help of her new husband, prison minister Dana Brown, Karla walks-the-talk and
faces the inevitable challenge of her execution by lethal injection. Many prayers and letters of
support from around the world pour in as the clock ticks away to February 3rd and her
appointment with death. With time running out, Karla and Dana seek solace in their faith and
relationship with Jesus Christ. From a 6 by 9 prison cell, Karla reaches out with a message of
hope and love. This divine love story proclaims, like a mighty symphony, the majestic power
of God to change a life.
Synopsis: - "Karla Faye Tucker: Forevermore" is based on a true story that shook the world of
capital punishment. It's an emotional journey that takes a former drug-crazed prostitute and
convicted pick-ax killer from the depths of despair to personal triumph on Texas death row. It
is a powerful story about love and forgiveness. Karla becomes a media giant, a poster girl for
Christian restoration and Texas' worst nightmare as the first woman to be executed in over 100
years. The race is on to save her life. With the help of her new husband, prison Minister Dana
Brown, Karla walks-the-talk and faces inevitable challenge of her execution by lethal injection.
Many prayers and letters of support from around the world pour in as the clock ticks away to
February and her appointment with death. With time running out, Karla reaches out to the
world with a message of hope and love. This divine love story proclaims the majestic power of
God to change a life.
Dove Worldview: - Based on a true dramatization of the last days of Karla Faye Tucker's life,
this film portrays her in her new found faith at the end of her numbered days on this earth as
she waits on death row. It amazes me that a person on death row can get married and have so
many visitors. I realize that this is a dramatization of Karla's story, but it glamorizes the
situation to a point that you feel sorry for her and not the victims of her crime.
This is a compelling story of her faith and her redemption for past sins and the crimes she
committed. This DVD shows that with God in a person's life, anyone can change including
those in prison. She also inspired others to help those in need so that they would not make her
same mistakes. This faith-based film inspires redemption and forgiveness. We award this film
the Dove "Family-Approved" 12+ Seal due to content.
Theatrical Release: 10/4/2005, Video Release: 1/25/2011, Writer: Helen Gibson, Producer: Helen
Gibson, Matt De Jesus, Pamela Carter, Director: Helen Gibson
Genre: Drama, Runtime: 122 min., MPAA Rating: PG
Starring: Karen Jezek, Kenny Jezek, Ann Ault, Helen Gibson,
Synopsis:- Celebrated by audiences and critics nationwide, Christine Swanson's "All About
Us" is an inspirational and refreshing romantic drama inspired by a true story. When a
filmmaking couple hits a brick wall in Hollywood, they set off to Mississippi to find Morgan
Freeman and persuade him to star in their next film. When life gets in their way, the couple
soon discovers what matters to them most. Beautifully told with stellar performances by Boris
Kodjoe (Tyler Perry's Medea's Family Reunion), Academy Award Nominee Rudy Dee and a
special appearance by Morgan Freeman, set against the backdrop of Hollywood and the
Mississippi Delta, "All About Us" is an entertaining and heartfelt story that provides insightful
commentary on the familial rifts that ambition often creates.
All about us
90 Minutes
Age Restrictions: 13PG
Categories: Drama
Dove Worldview:- This film paints a realistic picture of just how hard it is for independent
filmmakers to navigate the Hollywood system of film distribution. It can take years for a fully
produced film to reach an audience. And, when you consider that many Indie filmmakers
spend their life savings following their dreams, you can understand the resulting stress.
"All About Us" is the tale of a husband and wife who do just that. The struggles they encounter
ultimately bring them closer together and reinstall the importance of faith, family and going
back to our roots for answers. Dove is pleased to award this film our Dove "Family-Approved"
Seal and recommend it for ages 12 and over.
Reviewer: Donna Rolfe, Source: Video, Company: Vivendi Entertainment, Writer: Christine
Swanson, Director: Christine Swanson, Producer: Michael Swanson , Starring: Boris Kodjoe,
Rudy Dee, Ryan Michelle Bathe, Special Appearance by Morgan Freeman - Genre: Drama,
Runtime: 90 min., MPAA Rating: Unrated
Synopsis:- Get swept away in an island adventure as you enjoy all 26 episodes of this beloved
family classic! The only survivors of a shipwreck, the Robinsons wash ashore on a strange and
fantastic tropical island where they battle pirates, wild animals and Mother Nature! The whole
family will be riveted as the stories of each unforgettable episode unfold.
Dove Worldview:- Based on the great classic novel of the same name by Johann David Wyss,
this original Canadian Television series of 26 episodes, takes you on the adventure with the
Robinson family. Produced in 1976 before reality TV, this story displayed the trying times of
survival one family had to endure on a tropical island. Although this island has beautiful
scenery, it is filled with many dangerous perils. Each episode brings to life a different situation
for the family.
Swiss Family Robinson
121 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
Throughout this series there are important lessons of survival, family and values. This is a
family that must rely on each other to survive. As they build a new life on the island until a
rescue comes, they teach lessons from the Bible, prepare the children for life and death
situations and to accept others. The entire family will enjoy this classic series from the past and
it is Dove "Family-Approved."
Synopsis:- Ty and Katie love to ride their horses, Two Bits and Pepper. But when Ty disobeys
her parents' rules and rides to town, she finds herself in a world of trouble. Angry about the
consequences, Ty runs off to Katie's house while her parents frantically search for her. But just
as the girls head to bed, two amateur kidnappers (Joe Piscopo, in a dual role) break in and
capture the friends, holding them for ransom. Now the heat is on to bring the girls home safely
-- and joining the search are the biggest heroes of all ... Two Bits and Pepper.
Dove Worldview:- If you like horses, you will love the two featured in this fun adventure. Two
Bits & Pepper both talk to each other in human voices making this film fun to watch for adults
and kids alike. Ty and Katie are a couple of young girls who get a little bored at home so they
venture to town against Ty's mother's wishes. When she and her mother get into an argument,
Ty runs away from home and goes to her friend Katie's house without telling her mom.
Two Bits and Pepper
A frantic search ensues and the horses get involved. When a couple of bad brothers try to
kidnap the girls the entire town enters the search. This was a fun action-filled adventure that
has a strong message that you should obey your parents. Dove is pleased to award this film
95 Minutes
our "Family-Approved" Seal for ages 12 and over due to some language and the peril of the
fire.
Reviewer: Scott Rolfe, Source: Video, Company: Echo Bridge Home Entertainment, Writer:
Corey Michael Eubanks, Director: Corey Michael Eubanks , Producer: Richard Pepin and
Joseph Merhi, Starring: Joe Piscopo, Dennis Weaver and Lauren Eckstrom
Genre: Adventure, Runtime: 96 min., MPAA Rating: PG
Synopsis:- Reuniting the same charismatic cast and characters from his hit comedy/drama,
"Why Did I Get Married," Tyler Perry brings us the next chapter in the lives of eight college
friends struggling with the challenges of marital life in "Why Did I Get Married Too?"
Gathered together in the Bahamas for their annual one-week reunion, four close couples
eagerly reconnect, sharing news about their lives and relationships. But their intimate week in
paradise is disrupted by the unexpected arrival of Sheila's ex-husband, Mike, who hopes to
break up her new marriage with Troy and win her back. The others soon realize they too are
not immune to the challenges of commitment and fidelity. Angela doesn't believe her husband,
Marcus, can be faithful now that he's a celebrity television newscaster. Dianne and Terry's
relationship is feeling the strain of raising children. And Patricia, a successful self-help
psychologist, must finally reveal the deep flaws in her seemingly perfect marriage to Gavin.
With their relationships hanging in the balance when they return home, each couple must
choose between blame and forgiveness, doubt and faith, with life-altering consequences...
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Theater, Company: Lionsgate, Writer: Tyler Perry,
Why did I get married Too Director: Tyler Perry, Producer: Reuben Cannon, Starring: Tyler Perry, Janet Jackson, Jill Scott
106 Minutes
Age Restrictions: 13 L
Categories: Drama
Genre: Drama, Runtime: 121 min., MPAA Rating: PG-13
LEGACY DVD: Tyle Perry's Movies are not Dove approved for Family Viewing for it contains
language. However I would recommend his movies for parents. He is a man who truly loves
God and his movies can minister to anybody for he touches on many different circumstances
in life.
Synopsis:- Inspired by a true story, "Eight Below" is an exciting action-adventure about loyalty
and the bonds of friendship set in the extreme wilderness of Antarctica. The film tells the story
of three members of a scientific expedition: Jerry Shepard (Paul Walker), his best friend Cooper
(Jason Biggs), and a rugged American geologist (Bruce Greenwood), who are forced to leave
behind their team of beloved sled dogs due to a sudden accident and perilous weather
conditions in Antarctica.
During the harsh, Antarctic winter, the dogs must struggle for survival alone in the intense
frozen wilderness for over 6 months until the adventurers can mount a rescue mission. The
film is inspired by the events of a 1957 Japanese Antarctic Expedition, which served as the
basis for the blockbuster Japanese film "Nankyoku Monogatari" ("Antarctica").
Eight Below
116 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
Dove Worldview:- The film ends with "Dedicated to the arctic explorers and their dogs that
inspired this film." "Eight Below" is certainly a tribute to all of these brave men, women and
dogs. It is one of the most uplifting and wonderful films of the year! "Sometimes you just have
to take chances for the things you care about" is a lesson learned by both Jerry Shepard and the
American geologist.
This film has wonderful scenery and landscapes, brilliant night skies and shooting stars that
all combine to make "Eight Below" a fantastic visual experience. You will be chilled to the bone
weather wise with temperatures dipping to 50 degrees below zero, but the story will certainly
warm your heart. This is a must see and just might be the best family picture of the year.
Reviewer: Dave Lukens, Source: Theater, Company: Walt Disney, Writer: David DiGilio,
Director: Frank Marshall, Producer: Patrick Crowley, Starring: Paul Walker, Bruce Greenwood,
Jason Biggs
Genre: Adventure, Runtime: 120 min. , MPAA Rating: PG
Synopsis:- Tim Allen transforms from family dad to family dog and back again in this update
of the Disney comedy. It all begins when workaholic Deputy D.A. Dave Douglas (Allen) takes
on a case involving an animal laboratory -- one that will take him away yet again from his wife
(Kristin Davis) and kids (Zena Grey and Spencer Breslin), who already yearn for his all-toodistracted attention. But when Dave is accidentally infected with a top-secret, genetic-mutation
serum, everything he thought he knew about himself and his family changes. Yet with his
newly perked-up ears, and his front-row seat on the household carpet, Dave is able to gain a
whole new perspective into his family's secrets and dreams. Now, he wants nothing more than
to stop fetching and return to fathering -- only first he'll have to stop the evil forces behind the
serum.
Dove Worldview:- I must admit I had lowered my expectations for "The Shaggy Dog," seeing it
was a remake and most of those do not turn out well. Also, the premise of a man turning into a
dog seemed rather silly; and maybe it is, but when the man is Tim Allen, it works! I was
pleasantly surprised as this was a genuinely funny movie, and judging by the audience's
response they felt the same way. Tim Allen really makes the viewer think about what it would
be like to be in dog's head, or any animal's head for that matter. Allen nailed it in every scene,
from fetching a stick (despite his initial reluctance) to lowering his head and looking up at the
judge with sad eyes while he was in a "human" form. His dream of being on a beach with fire
hydrants everywhere was humorous as well.
Shaggy Dog
95 Minutes
Categories: Comedy
It should be noted that another dog is seen meditating and praying in a Buddhist temple in the
beginning of the film, but this fantasy film does not go anywhere with that - it concentrates on
Allen's character more than anything. There is also a scene in which he is a dog again and he
sees a boy in his daughter's bedroom, but he enters the room to make sure nothing transpires
which shouldn't and nothing does. He does steal his neighbor's roses to spell out "I love you"
to his wife while he is in dog form, but this is the worst it gets as this is a funny one for the
family. There is not one profanity in the entire film. That was a nice change of pace. I
recommend it, with the above warnings, for the entire family and I am happy to give it four
Doves!
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Theater , Company: Buena Vista , Writer: Cormac
Wibberley and Marianne Wibberley, Director: Brian Robbins, Producer: Tim Allen, Starring:
Tim Allen, Kristin Davis, Zena Grey, Spencer Breslin, Danny Glover
Genre: Family, Runtime: 98 min., MPAA Rating: PG
Synopsis:- The husband, Charles, is a powerful attorney while Helen has been a devoted
housewife. They seem to have everything, money, a beautiful mansion -- the American Dream.
But just as Helen prepares to celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary, her picture-perfect life
is about to takes an unexpected twist: Charles wants to divorce her for her best friend.
Dove Worldview:- The first part of the movie showed how Helen’s husband treated her. I was
astounded how badly someone could be treated, yet I wanted nothing more than to love him.
It even made me angry just seeing it. This film was better than I expected, assisted by the
humorous antics of Helen’s aunt, Madea, whose actions rival Mrs. Doubtfire’s in the “male
actor playing old lady” category. Also, at times, the movie was very frustrating as I wanted to
yell at Helen about her decision making.
Diary of a Mad Black
Woman
112 Minutes
Age Restrictions: 10
Categories: Drama
There are several good life lessons in this film pertaining to family and faith that surprised me.
However, this film is not Dove approved.
Reviewer: Bradley B. Klinge, Source: Theater , Company: Lionsgate, Writer: Tyler Perry,
Director: Darren Grant , Starring: Kimberly Elise, Steve Harris, Shemar Moore, Tamara Taylor
Genre: Drama , MPAA Rating: PG-13
in life.
Synopsis:- A single father, Monty (Elba) is a garage mechanic who lives in a poor
neighborhood and struggles to make ends meet as he raises his three young daughters on his
own. But when the courts award custody of his daughters to his corrupt, drug-dealing ex-wife,
Monty desperately tries to win them back, enlisting the help of Julia (Union), a beautiful – and
hard-nosed – attorney he meets during his short stint as a chauffeur.
While Monty and the Ivy-League-educated Julia couldn’t be less alike, an unexpected romance
blossoms…and it soon begins to feel like true love. But in order for their relationship to
survive, the couple must reconcile their two very different worlds – and overcome the forces
that threaten to tear Monty’s family apart.
Dove Worldview:- There are two things which make it easy to review a film at Dove: either the
film easily misses being approved or it is approved easily. Then there is the film like this one: it
Daddy's Little Girls
is a near miss. There is a lot to like about this film. It shows a father who sincerely loves his
three daughters and attempts to gain custody of them from their lying, abusive mother who
98 Minutes
Age Restrictions: 13PGLV also happens to live with a drug dealer. The father works hard and is protective of his
daughters. A stuck-up but very good female lawyer is won over by him, and her heart softens
Categories: Drama
as she sees his devotion to his family. She defends him as their relationship deepens. There is a
great sermon given by the pastor of the church in this movie, and he tells his excited
congregation that when they are the most tired and weary of life's battles, that they are the
closest to the miracle they need. There is a great spiritual song in the film too.
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Theater , Company: Lionsgate, Writer: Tyler Perry,
Director: Tyler Perry, Producer: Reuben Cannon, Starring: Gabrielle Union, Idris Elba, Louis
Gossett Jr.
in life.
Synopsis:- Beautiful, successful and happily single, Helen (Kate Hudson) is an executive
assistant at a modeling agency in Manhattan in this romantic comedy. But when her sister and
brother-in-law (Felicity Huffman and Sean O’Bryan) are killed in a car accident, she becomes
the legal guardian of their three children: teenager Audrey (Hayden Panettiere), 10-year-old
Henry (Spencer Breslin) and kindergartner Sarah (Abigail Breslin). Helen finds herself trying
to find a suitable school for the children while meeting the demands of her job. When she
stumbles upon a Lutheran school in Queens, the headmaster and pastor (John Corbett)
convinces her to enroll them. He is amused by Helen’s attempts to hide her ignorance of
religion, and a strong friendship develops into romance. Helen’s other sister (Joan Cusack)
meanwhile feels that she should be the guardian, and the two bicker over how to deal with the
orphaned children.
Dove Worldview:- "Raising Helen" will appeal more to women because of its gentle humor
and wholesome romance. Helen makes personal sacrifices to keep the children: a rebellious
teenager, a grieving boy who withdraws and a little girl who feels inadequate. When she and
Dan fall in love, there is no hint of a sexual relationship. Audrey’s rebellion manifests itself in
lying about her prom date and sneaking off with a more worldly boy to a motel. Clearly sex
was on their agenda, but Helen and her sister interfere just in time. She also invites some
unsavory teens to a party in the apartment, with drinking, loud music and smoking. There is
no violence except for some pushing and shoving. Dove cautions parents about "Raising
Helen" for these issues, as well as one instance of the s-word, uttered by 10-year-old Henry.
That is why we recommend a 12+ age group for this film.
Raising Helen
Reviewer: Movie Morality Ministries - Mary Draughon, Source: Theater , Company:
115 Minutes
Categories: Comedy
Touchstone Pictures, Starring: Kate Hudson, Felicity Huffman, Sean O'Bryan, John Corbett,
Joan Cusack
Synopsis:- In this remake of the 1997 Japanese film, estate lawyer John Clark (Richard Gere) is
happily married to Bev (Susan Sarandon) but yearns for a change in his monotonous routine.
On his evening train ride home from his Chicago office, he notices a lovely but sad, young
woman (Jennifer Lopez) standing at the window of Miss Mitzi’s School of Dance. His curiosity
leads him to sign up for a beginner’s ballroom dancing class, changing his life forever. Miss
Mitzi (Anita Gillette) is a delightfully funny, middle-aged lady, and Paulina, the sad woman, is
a professional ballroom dancer and instructor. John and his inept male classmates become
close friends, but his biggest shock is discovering that Link Peterson (Stanley Tucci), a member
of John’s law firm, is one of the star dancers hiding behind ridiculous outfits. John and his
friends spring to new life as they waltz and tango their way into a championship competition.
Shall We Dance?
102 Minutes
Categories: Drama
Dove Worldview:- I wish we could award this film the Dove Seal because I really liked it
because of the music and dancing. The story was cute, well written and the cast did a
marvelous job. Richard Gere and Jennifer Lopez on the dance floor was not Fred and Ginger,
but they did a wonderful job and it was enjoyable to watch. Stanley Tucci was hilarious as Link
Peterson. Some might remember him from The Pelican Brief where he played a paid assassin.
In Shall We Dance he plays a frustrated "closet" ballroom dancer and he really plays it well.
If you like to dance and enjoy watching other people dance you will enjoy this film. The
problem for families comes with the foul language. They throw the F-word in there and it was
totally unnecessary. Also, there were several profanities. If they would have refrained from
using the foul language, this would have been a good family film because of the Clark family
values in the end. They should have left out the foul dialog and stuck to dancing. The other
cautionary note would be the intensely "hot" dance scene between Lopez and Gere.
Reviewer: Dave Lukens, Source: Theater, Company: Miramax Pictures, Starring: Richard Gere,
Susan Sarandon, Jennifer Lopez, Anita Gillette, Stanley Tucci
Genre: Drama, Runtime: 100 min., MPAA Rating: PG-13
Synopsis:- It's New Year's Eve and festivities have begun aboard the luxury cruise Poseidon, at
sea in the North Atlantic. One of the finest vessels of its kind, Poseidon stands more than 20
stories tall, boasts 800 staterooms and 13 passenger decks.
Tonight, many of the ship's guests have gathered to greet the new year in style in the
magnificent Main Ballroom. They raise champagne glasses as Captain Bradford (ANDRE
BRAUGHER) delivers a holiday toast and the band (led by FERGIE of the Black Eyed Peas)
rolls into a version of Auld Lang Syne. Meanwhile, on the bridge, the Chief Officer senses that
something is wrong. - Scanning the horizon, he sees it - a Rogue Wave; a monstrous wall of
water over one hundred feet high, bearing down on them with tremendous speed. He tries to
steer the ship away from maximum impact but it's too late.
The wave strikes with colossal force, pitching the ship heavily to port before rolling it
completely upside down. Passengers and crew are thrown into free fall, crushed by debris or
dragged into the sea as water bursts in through shattered windows. Supports collapse, broken
gas lines ignite flash fires and lights fail, leaving vast sections of the ship in darkness and
chaos. - In its aftermath a few hundred survivors are left to huddle in the still-intact Main
Ballroom, now resting below the waterline. They should stay together, the captain maintains,
and wait here for rescue.
Poseidon
94 Minutes
Age Restrictions: 13
Categories: Drama
Dove Worldview:- "Poseidon" is a non-stop thrill as a small band of survivors climb through
the inner workings of the ill-fated cruise ship trying to escape. During their journey, we are
exposed to those who weren't as fortunate and died; sometimes horrible deaths. However,
while understanding that many perished, the director showed restraint and none were
extremely graphic. Unfortunately, language again stops Dove from approving this adventure
in the high seas.
Reviewer: Scott Rolfe, Source: Theater , Company: Warner Brothers, Writer: Mark Protosevich,
Director: Wolfgang Petersen, Producer: Mike Fleiss, Starring: Josh Lucas, Kurt Russell, Jacinda
Barrett, Richard Dreyfuss, Jimmy Bennett, Emmy Rossum
Genre: Action, Runtime: 99 min., MPAA Rating: PG-13
Synopsis:- Nothing was going to stop Roy Hobbs from fulfilling his boyhood dream of
baseball superstardom. Robert Redford stars in this inspiring fable that begins when 14-yearold Hobbs fashions a powerful bat from a fallen oak tree. He soon impresses major league
scouts with his ability, fixing his extraordinary talent in the mind of sportswriter Max Mercy,
who eventually becomes instrumental in Hobbs' career.
But a meeting with a mysterious woman shatters his dream. Years pass and an older Hobbs
reappears as a rookie for the New York Knights. Overcoming physical pain and defying those
who have a stake in seeing the Knights lose, Hobbs, with his boyhood bat, has his chance to
lead the Knights to the pennant and to finally fulfill his dream.
The Natural
132 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
Categories: Drama
Studio: Columbia Tristar Home Entertainment, Country of origin: United Kingdom, Release
date: June 2009, Actors: Robert Redford • Robert Duvall • Kim Basinger,
Running time: 2 hours, 12 minutes, Age restriction: PG
Synopsis:- America’s favorite feline, Garfield, follows his owner, Jon, to England. The U.K. may
never recover, as Garfield is mistaken for a look-alike, regal cat who has inherited a castle.
Garfield savors the royal treatment afforded by his loyal “subjects,” but his “reign” is in
jeopardy. The nefarious Lord Dargis is determined to do away with Garfield, so he can turn
the castle into a resort.
Garfield 2
82 Minutes
Categories: Drama
Dove Worldview:- Bill Murray once again voices the lazy but lovable Garfield, who plots to
hinder Jon from proposing to his girlfriend, as Garfield believes he will no longer receive the
attention he craves. Garfield hides in Jon's luggage, along with Odie, and they travel to
England with Jon, who follows his girlfriend there to propose to her. There are laughs aplenty
in this family-friendly film, including a scene in which Odie pees on a British guard's foot, and
then flees along with Garfield, crying out, "The British are coming! The British are coming!"
Another cute scene develops when Garfield is fed a liver dish which he detests. "What is this 'Fear Factor'"? he asks. While in England, Garfield becomes mixed up with a look-alike cat
named Prince, who is indeed the prince and soon-to-be king.
This film has a perfect melding of CGI and live action and it works well and is truly funny.
There are a couple of brief drinking scenes, and some cleavage is shown, and there's a bit of
animal flatulence, but this family-friendly film is safe for every age group. If this fun sequel to
the first Garfield movie does well at the box office, there may be nine lives remaining for
future films.
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Theater, Company: 20th Century Fox, Writer: Joel
Cohen and Jim David, Director: Tim Hill, Producer: John Davis, Starring: Breckin Meyer,
Jennifer Love Hewitt, Billy Connolly, Bill Murray
Genre: Comedy, Runtime: 78 min., MPAA Rating: PG
Synopsis:- "Thunderbirds" is a sci-fi action movie of the popular 1960s British television
program by the same name. In 2010, Jeff Tracy (Bill Paxton) is a billionaire, widower and
former astronaut who buys an uncharted island and builds a secret base from which he and
his five sons work to help those in need whenever disaster strikes. Tracy’s youngest son, Alan
(Brady Corbet), is the only one not yet old enough to be part of the International Rescue
organization. He eagerly desires to show his family that he is grown up and ready to join the
Thunderbirds. His best friends Fermat (Soren Fulton) and Tin Tin (Vanessa Anne Hudgens)
face evil criminal The Hood (Ben Kingsley) as he seeks to take over the secret island and
destroy the Thunderbirds. British Secret Agent Lady Penelope (Sophia Myles) and her able
chauffer Parker (Ron Cook) join in the battle between good and evil, and provide the
Thunderbirds with some much-needed levity.
Thunderbirds
90 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
Dove Worldview:- Alan and his friends are good kids that have been raised to do right, but
Alan overreacts in anger when he is punished or is told that he cannot do something. When
Alan is assigned a 10,000-word essay for daydreaming in school, he tells his friend that the
teacher “can take the assignment and stick it up her … (-ss implied)”. Alan and Tin Tin are
mildly attracted to one another as they begin to realize that they are growing up, and she
notices that he is becoming a young man. Inappropriate language and sexual content in this
film is rather mild and ultimately uneventful. Even the scary moments in the film are
drastically downplayed and could have been much more intense.
Reviewer: Movie Morality Ministries - Brian Hughes, Source: Theater, Company: Universal
Pictures, Starring: Bill Paxton, Brady Corbet, Soren Fulton, Vanessa Anne Hudgens, Ben
Kingsley, Sophia Myles, Ron Cook
Genre: Science-Fiction, Runtime: 87 min., MPAA Rating: PG
Synopsis:- Based on characters created by Carolyn Keene, "Nancy Drew" follows Nancy
(Emma Roberts) as she accompanies her father, Carson Drew (Tate Donovan), to Los Angeles
on one of his business trips and stumbles across evidence about a long-unsolved crime
involving the mysterious death of a beautiful movie star. Nancy's resourcefulness and
personal responsibility are put to the test when she finds herself in the middle of the fastliving, self-indulgent world of Hollywood.
Dove Worldview:- Growing up with Nancy Drew made this movie a hit with me. Girls from
12 to 80 will enjoy this mystery if they are familiar with the series of books. Even though I have
not read them in a long time, this film and the characters portrayed, definitely merge within
the story lines of the past.
This movie is geared toward the tween aged girls. "Nancy Drew" has reached out to a whole
new generation of girls, and this film will not leave them disappointed.
Reviewer: Donna Rolfe, Source: Theater, Company: Warner Brothers, Writer: Andrew Fleming
and Tiffany Paulsen, Director: Andrew Fleming, Producer: Jerry Weintraub, Starring: Emma
Roberts, Josh Flitter, Craig Gellis, Rich Cooper
Nancy Drew
94 Minutes
Synopsis: Based upon Tyler Perry's acclaimed stage production, MADEA'S FAMILY
REUNION continues the adventures of southern matriarch Madea begun in the hit film
DIARY OF A MAD BLACK WOMAN.
An unstoppable force of nature, Madea may have finally taken on more than she can chew. She
has just been court ordered to be in charge of NIKKI, a rebellious runaway, her nieces LISA and
VANESSA are suffering relationship trouble, and through it all she has to organize her family
reunion.
As the reunion approaches, secrets are revealed and tensions rise. Madea must use every tactic
in her arsenal to not only keep the peace, but keep her family together.
Madea's Family Reunion
105 Minutes
Age Restrictions: 13V
Categories: Drama
Dove Worldview: This film was very funny in parts and very touching in other parts. It was
also tragic in many aspects as lives were severely impacted by abuse, both physical and sexual.
Madea has her head on straight and gives down-to-earth good advice. What is even more
entertaining is that the advice is often as funny as it is profound.
The forgiveness, redemption and sense of family that Tyler Perry conveys is very rare and
touching these days. What is even more refreshing is the deep faith in God that many
characters in the film have. These people are shown as decent, loving and caring individuals
that try to do the right thing. There is one scene where Cicely Tyson's character gives a stirring
speech to her kin at the Family Reunion. It is one of the most moving and true monologs that I
have heard in a long time.
Theatrical Release: 2/24/2006, Reviewer: Dave Luken, Source: Theater, Writer: Tyler Perry,
Producer: Reuben Cannon, Director: Tyler Perry, Starring: Lynn Whitfield, China Anderson,
Gabrielle Anderson
in life.
“A true story of faith, devotion and undying love.”
“Hachi: A Dog’s Story” is a heartwarming and inspiring family drama that tells the story of one
dog’s unwavering loyalty and devotion. When college professor, Parker Wilson (Richard Gere),
discovers a rather unlikely commuter wandering around the train station, he takes the
adorable lost Akita puppy home with him. Parker and his new canine friend, Hachi (Hachikō),
soon form a bond that cannot be broken. Hachi follows Parker to the train station every day
and returns to the station every evening to greet his beloved master after work.
Hachiko
89 Minutes
Categories: Drama
On one very sad day, Parker leaves for work and becomes deathly ill, never to return to the
station again. Even after Parker passes away, Hachi faithfully returns to the station everyday
for the next nine years, until his death, to wait for his beloved master. During those nine years,
this amazing dog touches the lives of the vendors, the stationmaster, and the many commuters
at the station square, as teaches them the true meaning of loyalty, devotion, and love. Hachi’s
unyielding devotion and love for his master soon gains media attention, and this dog’s
amazing story not only touches the lives of those at the station square, but all who learn about
Hachi’s love and devotion.
This film is an American adaptation of a true story set in 1925 Japan about a professor and his
devoted dog, Hachikō. Today, a bronze statue of Hachi sits in the Shibuya Station in Japan in
honor of his faithfulness and loyalty.
Summary and Recommendations: Overall, this film brings a breath of fresh air into the
secular film world, where so-called “family films” are all too often littered with crude jokes
and mild profanities, but “Hachi: A Dog’s Story” does not resort to these offensive staples of
the modern “family friendly” film. I highly recommend this well-acted and moving film about
a dog and his master to audiences of all ages, because this film is not only a delight to watch,
but its tender lessons of loyalty, friendship, commitment, and love, as well as its positive
portrayals of family and marriage leave audiences with some important ideals to discuss with
their families.
This film reinforces the principles of devotion, love, selflessness, and faithfulness, and its
positive portrayal of a loving family reveres marriage and traditional family values. These
fruits of the spirit and this film’s respect for family and marriage are brought to life through
many sweet and tender moments throughout the movie. We see Parker and Hachi share a
bowl of popcorn, as they sit on the couch together, while watching a Yankees game. Parker also
gets down on all fours to try to teach the puppy how to play fetch. Viewers will be touched as
they watch the bond of friendship and loyalty strengthen between this cute puppy and his
newfound master.
Moral Rating:Good, Primary Audience: Kids, Family Genre:Family, Drama Length:1 hr. 33
min., Year of Release:2009, USA Release:December 18, 2009 (limited), DVD release: March 9,
2010, Distributor: Consolidated Pictures Group
Synopsis: Brad Anderson created the decades-running newspaper comic strip, about a
mischievous Great Dane who lives with the Winslow family, in 1954. The big dog then
appeared in several animated episodes of "Heathcliff" and "Garfield and Friends."
Dove Worldview: Marmaduke was always the comic strip that everyone loved and now he is
on the big screen larger than life. With his family that has moved to California from the
Midwest, the lovable dog tries to fit in just as children try to do when there is a move. This
talking mutt brings comedy to the adventure.
Owen Wilson brings to life the overgrown dog and Marmaduke means well wherever he goes.
There are a variety of familiar voices that make up the cast of animals. This is a hilarious story
and a family-friendly tale.
Marmaduke
85 Minutes
Categories: Comedy
There are some underlying lessons which are learned along the way in this adventure, about
the importance of family no matter if they are animal or human, plus that it is okay to be
different and always be yourself. I must tell you that there are some dog humor scenes that
dog owners may relate to more than other audience members, but overall this is a fun movie
for the family. If you love the talking animal movies you will love this. We award the Dove
"Family-Approved" Seal for all ages to "Marmaduke".
Reviewer: Donna Rolfe, Source: Theater , Company: 20th Century Fox , Writer: Tim Rasmussen
& Vince Di Meglio , Director: Tom Dey , Producer: John Davis, Starring: Owen Wilson, Emma
Stone, George Lopez
Genre: Family , Runtime: 87 min. , MPAA Rating: PG
Synopsis:- This time around – Edmund and Lucy Pevensie, along with their pesky cousin
Eustace Scrubb – find themselves swallowed into a painting and on to a fantastic Narnian ship
headed for the very edges of the world. Joining forces once again with their royal friend Prince
Caspian and the warrior mouse Reepicheep, they are whisked away on a mysterious mission
to the Lone Islands, and beyond. On this bewitching voyage that will test their hearts and
spirits, the trio will face magical Dufflepuds, sinister slave traders, roaring dragons and
enchanted merfolk. Only an entirely uncharted journey to Aslan’s Country – a voyage of
destiny and transformation for each of those aboard the Dawn Treader – can save Narnia, and
all the astonishing creatures in it, from an unfathomable fate.
Narnia: The Voyage of the
Dawn Treader
Dove Worldview:- This is one voyage you don't want to miss! Return to Narnia and enjoy this
third fantastic film in the Chronicles of Narnia movie series. The action is plentiful and the
characters are delightful. This time only Edmund and Lucy return to the fantastic and
enthralling land of Narnia, minus Peter and Susan, although they are briefly seen in the film.
But Edmund and Lucy have one additional passenger, their cousin Eustace Scrubb, who
provides some genuinely funny comic relief. His character also grows and undergoes some
115 Minutes
changes for the better as the story progresses.
Other favorites are back such as Reepicheep and Caspian. This time Caspian is a king and not a
prince. And, of course Aslan returns at just the right time; wonderfully voiced by Liam
Neeson. The special effects are amazing and the adventures aboard the Dawn Treader are
breath-taking. There are a few surprisingly intense battles, but nothing gratuitous. The themes
of forgiveness and sacrifice are clearly depicted in the movie.
We are pleased to award our Dove "Family-Approved" Seal to this terrific film! Return to
Narnia and allow the wonderful characters, music and locations to take you away to a
fantastical world that delights the imagination!
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Theater, Company: 20th Century Fox - Walden Media,
Writer: Christopher Markus, Stephen McFeely & Michael Petroni & C.S. Lewis, Director:
Michael Apted, Producer: Mark Johnson, Starring: Ben Barnes, Skandar Keynes, Georgie
Henley, Will Poulter, Tilda Swinton
Synopsis:- "Furry Vengeance" is a live action family comedy in which an ambitious young real
estate developer, Dan Sanders, faces off with a band of angry animals when his new housing
subdivision pushes too far into a pristine part of the wilderness. Led by an incredibly clever
raccoon, the animals stymie the development and teach our hero about the environmental
consequences of man's encroachment on nature.
Furry Vengeance
92 Minutes
Categories: Comedy
Dove Worldview:- Fraser and Furry are Family Friendly! Fraser is Funny in Furry! Enjoy a
Furry good time with your Family! Sorry, I couldn't resist. If you enjoy slapstick comedy, this is
the film for you. Brendan Fraser is a likable good guy in this movie, and he plays a family man
named Dan Sanders who is married to Tammy (Brooke Shields). They have relocated along
with their son Tyler (Matt Prokop) to Rocky Springs, far from their previous life in Chicago.
Tyler misses his previous life and doesn't hide this fact from his father. The relocation is
supposed to be temporary, as Dan is working for his boss, Neil Lyman, to develop a
subdivision in the woods and the animals who live there respond in hostility. They are also
well organized.
Dan deals with everything from a crow pecking at his bedroom window during all hours of
the night, to an assault of skunks that hide in his van, to another attack which involves him
winding up in a porta potty up a tree. Sure, it is outrageous silly fun but Fraser plays it straight
all the way which adds to the charm of the movie. Although the movie is awarded our Dove
Seal for ages twelve plus there are many kids under twelve who could handle the fantasy-type
violence of the animals as they work hard to prevent losing their home and environment.
Get ready for a lot of slapstick and physical comedy. Go see "Furry Vengeance" but watch out
for the skunks and the raccoon! We gladly award our Dove "Family-Approved" Seal to this
film.
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Theater, Company: Summit Entertainment, Writer:
Michael Carnes & Josh Gilbert, Director: Roger Kumble, Producer: Keith Goldberg, Starring:
Brendan Fraser, Brooke Shields, Ken Jeong, Angela Kinsey
Synopsis:- It’s 1971. Cathy Rush is a woman ahead of her time … and she’s about to embark on
an adventure for the ages.
Recently hired as the coach of tiny Immaculata College, Cathy’s challenges are as imposing as
the big-school teams her Macs will face. There is no gymnasium, no fan support and no money.
To top it off, Cathy may not even have enough players for a team!
While it appears the Macs don’t have a prayer, all hope is not lost. With the help of Sister
Sunday—a spunky assistant coach—and the support of a booster club of elderly nuns, Coach
Rush creates a new game plan that just might bring the team—and the school—together.
Will this pioneer buck cultural norms and spur her rag-tag team to unexpected heights? Or
will her hard-driving ways create a wedge between the coach and everyone around her? One
thing’s for certain: there’s never been anyone like Cathy Rush at Immaculata!
The Mighty Macs
98 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
Categories: Drama
Dove Worldview:- In 1971 girls' basketball was thought of as something that girls did in gym
class, not as a competitive sport. It was thought of as only a boy's game during this era. Girls or
women were not viewed as being athletes. This is an inspiring story of one small all-girls
Catholic college, on the verge of closing, which produces a winning basketball team. The odds
are against them from the beginning but their new coach, Kathy, has a dream and a goal for the
girls and also for herself.
This is based on a true story and is about commitment and team work along with one woman's
dream. It is a dream that was carried on by these talented girls who had the courage to play the
game of basketball as they struggled with personal problems and insecurities. This is truly a
heartwarming story about one team that helped forge changes in the world of women's sports.
We award "The Mighty Macs" our Dove "Family-Approved" Seal for all ages.
Reviewer: Donna Rolfe, Source: Theater, Company: Quaker Media, Writer: Tim Chambers,
Director: Tim Chambers, Producer: Tim Chambers, Whitney Springer, Starring: Carla Gugino,
Ellen Burstyn, David Boreanaz, Marley Shelton
Genre: Drama, Runtime: 98 min., MPAA Rating: G
Synopsis:- Dwayne Johnson is the "Tooth Fairy,” also known as Derek Thompson, a hardcharging hockey player whose nickname comes from his habit of separating opposing players
from their bicuspids. When Derek discourages a youngster’s dreams, he’s sentenced to one
week’s hard labor as a real tooth fairy, complete with the requisite tutu, wings and magic
wand. At first, Derek “can’t handle the tooth” – bumbling and stumbling as he tries to furtively
wing his way through strangers’ homes…doing what tooth fairies do. But as Derek slowly
adapts to his new position, he begins to rediscover his own forgotten dreams.
Dove Worldview:- Dwayne Johnson really hit a right note when he made "The Game Plan" in
2007. It won the Crystal Dove Award for "Best Comedy of 2007." And it did well at the box
office.
Tooth Fairy
100 Minutes
Categories: Comedy
In the beginning, the idea of the tooth fairly seems a bit silly. But soon enough the laughs come
and the movie plays to the imagination in a big way. Derek Thompson (Johnson's character)
needs to learn how to control his super-sized ego and how to relate to kids. He dashes one
kid's dream of playing hockey by telling him how stacked the odds are against him and that he
would be better off thinking of something else. He also disappoints his girlfriend's son. The
girlfriend is played by Ashley Judd.
As Derek is forced to become a real tooth fairy he learns to appreciate the gift of imagination as
some funny and teachable moments ensue, and the story gels nicely from there on. One
highlight in the film comes from a hilarious cameo appearance by Billy Crystal. Eventually
Derek redeems himself and helps his girlfriend's son regain his self-confidence. Making
positive changes in one's life as well as encouraging the gift of imagination are two wellpresented themes in this entertaining film. We happily award our Dove Family-Approved Seal
to "Tooth Fairy." The Tooth Fairy is the perfect family film.
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Theater, Company: 20th Century Fox, Writer: Lowell
Ganz and Babaloo Mandel, Director: Michael Lembeck, Producer: Jason Blum, Starring:
Dwayne Johnson, Ashley Judd, Julie Andrews, Billy Crystal
Synopsis:- A big screen adaptation of "Gulliver's Travels," with Jack Black taking on the title
role of Lemuel Gulliver, a free-spirited travel writer who, on an assignment to the Bermuda
Triangle, suddenly finds himself a giant among men when he washes ashore on the hidden
island of Lilliput, home to a population of industrious, yet tiny, people.
Gulliver's Travels
81 Minutes
Age Restrictions: PG V
Categories: Comedy
Dove Worldview:- This movie will make you show your teeth with laughter! Lemuel Gulliver
(Jack Black) works in the mail room but longs for a more adventurous life which would
include Darcy Silverman (Amanda Peet), a travel editor. When Gulliver works up enough
courage to walk into her office to ask her out a misunderstanding leads to her thinking he is
applying for a travel writer's job. The free-spirited Gulliver winds up headed for the Bermuda
Triangle and fate beaches him on the shores of Lilliliput where he is a giant compared to the
little people who live there. They think he is an enemy but he begins to win them over,
including a man who becomes his friend, Horatio (Jason Segel). Horatio is a commoner who
longs to win the heart of Princess Mary (Emily Blunt) and Gulliver obliges with advice. He also
stages his own shows for the people of Liliput and brings "Star Wars" and "Titanic" and
"Avatar" to them for the first time!
Jack Black has his funny moments in this film, and we are approving it for ages twelve plus,
but it may not be for everyone. There is a brief scene in which the little people drag Gulliver
down with ropes and there is brief but complete rear nudity for a few seconds. Also, there is
some language although not a great amount of it. Please consult the content listing below.
There were plenty of laughs at the screening I attended on Christmas day, and we are pleased
to award the film our Dove "Family-Approved" Seal for ages twelve and above.
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Theater, Company: 20th Century Fox, Writer: Joe
Stillman & Nicholas Stoller, Director: Rob Letterman, Producer: Ben Cooley, Starring: Jack
Black, Jason Segel, Emily Blunt, Amanda Peet
Synopsis:- Alvin, Simon, and Theodore meet their musical match after returning to school and
entering into a battle of the bands competition in hopes of saving the school's troubled music
program. Sent to live with Dave Seville's younger nephew Toby (Zachary Levi), the three
lovable marmots decide that getting an education is more important than belting out pop
tunes. But the school's music program is about to go belly up, and the only way to save it is to
win the 25,000-dollar prize in the upcoming battle of the bands. Though the Chipmunks are
confident they have the songwriting skills to steamroll the competition, a newly formed
singing trio dubbed the Chippettes promises to give them some stiff competition on-stage.
Brittany, Eleanor, and Jeanette are indeed the real deal, and the closer the competition gets, the
more Alvin, Simon, and Theodore realize that in order to win, they'll have to give it everything
they've got.
Dove Worldview:- This movie is a very entertaining and nice follow-up to its predecessor. And
this time we have female chipmunks called Chippettes. They are a talented group too and as
Alvin is the front man for the Chipmunks, Brittany is the front "woman" for the Chippettes.
Alvin and the Chipmunks
Ian Hawke (David Cross) is back and although he has lost everything, he has a dream of
2
88 Minutes
Categories: Comedy
restoring his wealth and getting revenge against Alvin and the Chipmunks because he blames
them for his fall from his wealthy perch in the entertainment business. When he spots the
Chippettes, he believes he has found his pawn to checkmate Alvin and his brothers.
The kids I screened this movie with laughed heartily on several occasions. They were
obviously having a fun time watching Alvin do a victory dance and they loved it when
Theodore, who was sleeping next to a character named Toby, fought his way out from under
the covers when Toby let go with some flatulence. Not to worry, this is the only flatulence joke
in the entire film.
The Chipmunks cope with a lot of problems in the film, including brothers Simon and
Theodore dealing with Alvin's inflated ego when he makes the football team and catches a
winning pass at game's end. Some pretty good themes are featured in this movie including
depending on family, forgiveness, and taking a chance, despite fear, on someone you care
about.
You won't be able to view this movie without laughing or smiling on several occasions! We are
pleased to award this film our Dove "Family-Approved" Seal for all ages and we award five
Doves to the movie, our highest rating.
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Theater, Company: 20th Century Fox, Writer: Jon Vitti
and Jonathan Aibel , Director: Betty Thomas, Producer: Ross Bagdasarian Jr., Starring: Zachary
Levi, David Cross, Jason Lee
Genre: Animated, Runtime: 95 min., MPAA Rating: PG
Synopsis: Walt Disney Pictures takes the Disney Channel phenom to the big screen in a feature
film extravaganza. Miley Stewart (Miley Cyrus) struggles to juggle school, friends and her
secret pop-star persona; when Hannah Montana's soaring popularity threatens to take over her
life—she just might let it. So her father (Billy Ray Cyrus) takes the teen home to Crowley
Corners, Tenn., for a dose of reality, kicking off an adventure filled with the kind of fun,
laughter and romance even Hannah Montana couldn't imagine.
Dove Worldview:- There were lots of little girls at the screening of this movie I attended. They
were obviously big "Hannah Montana" fans. They laughed during the film and cheered at the
end so for them it was a success. It works pretty well as a family film. The story revolves
around young Miley (Miley Cyrus) wanting to do more and more as Hannah Montana, and
her father (Billy Ray Cyrus) concerned that she is losing touch of Miley. He sweeps her away to
Tennessee to a family get together, which she strongly objects to, at first.
Hanna Montana: The
Movie
98 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
Categories: Drama
Soon she meets a young man named Travis and they form a friendship and when she sees a
big-time developer who has plans to turn some of the beautiful land into a shopping mall, she
does what she can to keep it from happening. Miley doesn't act perfectly the entire time. For
instance, in one case her dad attempts to reach her on the cell phone and she says he reached
the wrong number and she hangs up on him. But for the most part, especially at the end when
she sings a new song for him, they have a close relationship. Miley's attempts at figuring out
just who she is will resonate with a lot of her young fans.
This film features themes of loyalty, of standing up for what one believes is right, and the
importance of being honest. We gladly award the movie our Dove "Family-Approved" Seal.
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Theater, Company: Walt Disney, Writer: Daniel
Berendsen and Michael Poryes, Director: Peter Chelsom, Producer: Billy Ray Cyrus , Starring:
Miley Cyrus, Billy Ray Cyrus, Emily Osment, Jason Earles
Genre: Comedy, Runtime: 102 min., MPAA Rating: G
Synopsis:- Based on the popular cartoon character of the same name, "Inspector Gadget" is a
wild and quirky adventure comedy about a naive, inept security guard, John Brown whose big
heart is equal to his far-fetched dream to become the world's best police officer. Unexpected
circumstances make him the ideal candidate for a top-secret law enforcement project, and
pretty scientist, Dr. Brenda Bradford applies her expertise in robotics to build him into a man
of many talents...and accessories. Using a vast array of grafted-on gizmos and doohickies to
bust the bad guys, the often-clueless Inspector Gadget must employ his common sense to crack
an especially complex case.
Dove Worldview:- This is a live-action recreation of the popular cartoon series, which featured
the voice of Don Adams as the bumbling cartoon version of "Inspector Clouseau." Matthew
Broderick assumes the role of John Brown, aka "Inspector Gadget." Kids will love the film and
it does include a love interest between Gadget and Dr. Brenda Bradford (Joely Fisher) so the
adults may enjoy this romantic twist.
Inspector Gadget
75 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
The film does contain a lot of fantasy-type violence such as explosions and crashing cars, and
there is one scene in which Gadget is asked for an autograph and he lets loose with all of his
gadgets and frightens a young boy. This scene would probably be the only real intense scene
which might frighten youngsters. Otherwise, they will no doubt enjoy the inspector's head
bounce up and down like a bobble head and they will most likely enjoy the action sequences.
With a caution for parents to consult our content listing below, we approve the film for all ages.
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Theater , Company: Walt Disney, Writer: Andy
Heyward and Jean Chalopin and Dana Olsen and Zak Penn, Director: David Kellogg,
Producer: Roger Birnbaum, Starring: Matthew Broderick, Joely Fisher, Rupert Everett, Andy
Dick and the voice of Don Adams
Synopsis:- In this slapstick comedy from Disney, popular film star Cuba Gooding Jr. plays Ted
Brooks, a prosperous dentist in Miami who inherits his mother’s estate in Alaska. His meager
inheritance includes a team of eight very fine sled dogs. Ted embarks on a hilarious series of
mishaps to learn about dog sledding and, to prove himself, enters the annual cross-country
Arctic Challenge Dog Sled race. Jam-packed with action and all sorts of slapstick comedy
involving Ted, the sled dogs and the town’s characters, "Snow Dogs" is bound to have broad
appeal.
Snow Dogs
96 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
Categories: Comedy
Dove Worldview:- Cuba Gooding Jr. is appealing in these types of family films, and
considering he is an Academy Award winning actor, and could pick from a variety of roles, it is
nice to see him making family films such as this one and "Radio." In this film, he plays Ted
Brooks, a popular dentist who learns he is adopted after his real mother dies in Alaska. His life
changes dramatically when he visits Alaska and this includes some humor with his mother's
sled dogs, who range in personality from friendly and funny to one named Demon who is
downright mean!
Overall the film is wholesome but it does include a character punching another character in the
face, as well as a few beach scenes with women wearing bikinis. The film also includes some
humor such as a few of the sled dogs winking at each other before they take a man on a ride he
won't soon forget! The film does have a happy ending as well. We recommend this film, due to
a few mature themes, for ages twelve and above.
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Theater , Company: Walt Disney, Writer: Jim Kouf and
Gary Paulsen, Director: Brian Levant, Producer: Jordan Kerner, Starring: Cuba Gooding Jr.,
James Coburn, Sisqó, Nichelle Nichols
Synopsis:- "Summer Eleven" is a heartwarming story of summer beginning and eleven year old
Vanessa wondering if she and her friends will be able to maintain their bond past elementary
school. It becomes clear that even though the usual childhood pleasures of summer are there,
ice cream trucks, backyard camping, impromptu yard soccer with boys (gasp!), there is also the
specter of terrible adult difficulties in their respective families. With grace, tears, laughter and
some shock, (remember when you learned the facts of life?) our four young heroines make
their way through summer to the much dreaded, but inevitable, middle school.
Summer Eleven
90 Minutes
Categories: Drama
Dove Worldview:- Age eleven and middle school is always a change for any young girl! Here
is a story about four friends that spend the summer together before they enter middle school.
Each girl has a personal story to tell, each has their own inner feelings to deal with and each
have different family conflicts but through it all their friendship brings help for each of them.
Along the way the group also helps some of the people around them.
Here is a charming story about coming of age, friendships and helping others. This movie does
contain some issues that families deal with in this day and age. We award this film the Dove
"Family-Approved" 12+ Seal for ages 12 and older
Reviewer: Donna Rolfe, Source: Video, Company: Image Entertainment, Writer: Joseph Kell,
Director: Joseph Kell, Producer: Joseph Kell, Valerie Mahaffey, Starring: Adam Arkin, Valerie
Mahaffey, Deborah Theaker, Lisa Langlois, Steven Grayhm, Mark Humphrey, Eamon Hunt.
Genre: Drama, Runtime: 95 min., MPAA Rating: Unrated
A welcome throwback to a simpler, gentler breed of family entertainment
Synopsis:- A notorious diamond thief and two dim-witted accomplices stop along the highway
where 12 year old Owen sees them mistreating their dog. The boy intervenes to give the thirsty
dog a drink, but it escapes into the woods. He helps the angry thugs search for the animal deep
into the forest, then ditches them. Owen finds the dog and they hide out in his secret fort,
ingeniously fortified with booby traps and defense mechanisms to repel intruders. Bravely, his
fort is built atop the ridge where the feared "Madman of the Mountain" is said to live.
Desperate to retrive their $5 million in stolen jewels stached on the dog, the thugs catch up
with Owen, and a territic battle insues. Can one kid with a tricked-out fort protect an animal
from three determined thieves? And is the legendary Madman of the Mountain real? Kids of
all ages will delight in the fast-paced action and comedy this heart warming tale delivers.
Diamond Dog Caper
Dove Worldview:- When watching this hilarious comedy one thinks of the antics that were
used in "Home Alone" for protection. Owen is an ingenious young man that has created a lot of
good inventions. Recently he lost his dog and is now willing to do anything to protect this dog
he calls "Diamond". As Owen and Diamond try to foil the bumbling thieves, the audience will
be rolling with laughter.
104 Minutes
Age Restrictions: 13PG V
Categories: Action
This movie does contain some slap-stick violence, shows boys bullying another boy, and how
animals should be treated, which I believe are great topics for discussion with children. Dove is
proud to award the Dove "Family- Approved" Seal to this movie. "Dog Gone" this is a good
movie for the entire family.
Video Release: 10/7/2008, Reviewer: Donna Rolfe, Source: Video, Writer: Mark Stouffer,
Producer: Mark Stouffer, Director: Mark Stouffer, Starring: Luke Benward, Brittany Curran,
John Farley, French Stewart
Film Synopsis:Inspired by the hit off-Broadway play, Amara Winter, a strikingly beautiful and
charismatic young singer, is on the verge of pop stardom. Raised in the church by her father,
Reverend Dr. Kenneth Winter and mother, Lillian Winter, Amara and her younger brother
Luke have a very strong bond.
After her fathers untimely death, her mother is thrusts into the limelight in the role as
preacher, a daring move that ultimately catapults her to the top of the gospel world. Paralleling
her mothers success, Amara soon becomes a huge star in her own right, taking the pop music
world by storm.
Mama I Want to Sing
93 Minutes
Categories: Drama
Conflict begins to ensue when her mother is confronted with and unequivocally disapproves
of Amara’s secular music and videos. Amara must learn to pursue her dreams while both
navigating the often treacherous world of celebrity and striving to remain true to herself and
family.
Amara and her mother must work through their differences realizing that their journeys are
not quite so different after all. A heart-warming story that all ages will enjoy, Mama, I Want to
Sing! reminds us all not to be afraid dance to the music, to the beat of our own drum. (Written
by Talisa Jackson)
Runtime 101min. , MPAA Rating Rated PG,
Director: Charles Randolph-Wright, Producer/Writers: Charles Randolph-Wright, Vy
Higgenson, Language English , Production Company Codeblack Entertainment, Distribution
Company The Bigger Picture
Cast: Adrian Hammond, Ahmaya-Knoelle, Alexandra Cheron, Ava Santana, Ben Vereen, Billy
Zane, Carl Jay Cofield, Cheryl Ariaz Wicker, Ciara, Courtney Shay Young, Daurice Cummings,
Deborah Garcia Smith, Dena Gill, Dewey Moorman, Don Lincoln, Dugie Dugas, Geraldine
Glenn, Greg Washington, Hill Harper, Juanita Bynum, Katherine Rose, Kevin Phillips, Kim
Porter, Kristen Broussard, Lynn Whitfield, Mariah Roberson, Marissa D'Onofrio, Marvin
Winans, Paris Bennett, Patti LaBelle, Reggie Varice, Ross Francis, Scott A. Martin, Shonda Farr,
Theresa F. Linton, Tracey Dundas, Vy Higginsen
Vada Sultenfuss has a holiday coming up, and an assignment: to do an essay on someone she
admires and has never met. She decides she wants to do an assignment on her mother, but
quickly realizes she knows very little about her. She manages to get her father to agree to let
her go to LA to stay with her Uncle Phil and do some research on her mother. Once in LA, she
finds herself under the protection of Nick, the son of Phil's girlfriend, who at first is very
annoyed at losing his holidays to escort a hick *girl* around town. However, he soon becomes
more involved in the difficult search.
Summary:- Delightful Anna Chlumsky reprises her role as Vada in MY GIRL 2, only this time
she goes to Los Angeles during school break to find out more about her mother who died
when she was born.
My Girl 2
95 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
Categories: Drama
Review:- Delightful, though serious, Anna Chlumsky reprises her role as Vada in MY GIRL 2.
Her stepmother and father await the birth of their baby. Meanwhile, Vada receives an
assignment from her English teacher to write about a person she's never met telling about their
greatest achievement. She decides to write about her mother and flies to Los Angeles, her
mother's hometown, to find out more. Staying with Uncle Phil and his boss and lover, Rose,
she gets to know Nick, Rose's son. Vada finds out many things about her mother, but the most
startling is that she was married once before. At the end of her trip, Vada is satisfied with what
she discovers and comes to terms with her mother's death.
MY GIRL 2 is a low-key, somewhat enjoyable movie, and Anna Chlumsky once more steals the
show with her whimsical mannerisms, confident air and reflective personality. Her search for
her mother leads one to wonder how she could appear to be so poised and understanding
without having had her mother's influence.
Synopsis:- America's favorite orphan is back in a whirlwind adventure filled with sinister
scoundrels, hilarious hijinks and nonstop fun. Oliver "Daddy" Warbucks takes Annie and her
friends Hannah and Molly to jolly old England so he can be knighted. But the evil Lady
Edwina Hogbottom has plans of her own: to take over Buckingham Palace and become the
Queen. When Hogbottom swipes a soft-hearted scientist to further her dastardly plot, Annie's
button nose for danger gets them all thrown in the dungeon. Will Annie be able to escape, save
England, and still have time to finish her homework?
Dove Worldview:- "ANNIE: A Royal Adventure" is a new take on the classic and well worth
the viewing. The acting is good, the sights in London are great and this DVD is wonderful
family entertainment. We award this film five Doves
Annie-A Royal Adventure
88 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
Reviewer: Deb Berkenpas, Company: Sony Pictures Entertainment, Writer: Trish Soodik,
Director: Ian Toynton, Producer: Wendy Dyman, Ruth Slawson, Starring: Joan Collins, George
Hearn, Ian McDiarmid, Ashley Johnson
Genre: Family, Runtime: 92 min., MPAA Rating: G
Serenity Fall's favorite super sleuth is on the case again!
As the town prepares for it's 150th birthday celebration everyone is alarmed when a priceless
crystal turns up missing. The only suspect seems to be a strange man living in the woods
known as the Shaman.
It's up to Roxy Hunter and her best friend Max to discover the identity of the true thief and
recover the precious jewel.
Could it be the Shaman? Or is it the person no one would ever suspect...
Roxy Hunter and the Secret
of the Shaman
Product detail Studio Sony, Country of origin South Africa, Release date June 2009, Actors Aria
Wallace
86 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
Synopsis:- Tommy Braxton's father goes to war and never returns, forcing Tommy to become
the man of the house and support his mom and sister. Tommy makes a friend and finds a way
to save his family's farm when he meets a new friend, Jackie A. - a talking mule. Against all
odds, Tommy and Jackie A. triumph over the older bullies and their horses at the county stock
show in a spectacular show of resolve and determination that caps off a winning family
adventure.
Tommy and the Cool Mule
86 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
Dove Worldview:- Sometimes we all need a little help to believe in ourselves. This comical
movie about a young boy and his talking mule will undoubtedly make you laugh. It brought
back memories of another talking mule in the movies I saw when I was a kid. Jackie A. just
wants to help Tommy with some of his problems, especially dealing with the bullies from
school, and Tommy just wants to help his family. Together the two unconventional pair show
everyone that anything is possible.
This is a cute and comical movie for the entire family. Dove awards this movie our Dove
"Family-Approved" Seal.
Reviewer: Donna Rolfe, Company: Screen Media Films, Writer: William Langlois, Andrew
Stevens , Director: Andrew Stevens, Producer: Andrew Stevens, Starring: Grant Barker, Siri
Baruc, Kevin Sorbo, Matthew Tompkins, Darrian McClanahan, Michael Lambert, Zach Short,
Celeste Genco, Dylan Alford, Jeff Griffin, Marina Sbrochi, Jordan Reynolds, Brennan Barker,
Carson Nitschke, Voice by: Ice T
Genre: Family, Runtime: 94 min., MPAA Rating: G
Synopsis: - Unbeknown to humans, the struggle for world domination between cats and dogs
has been held in check by an uneasy truce. But that period of peace is about to disintegrate. A
power-mad Persian cat named Mr. Tinkles has broken from the fray to lead a massive feline
movement against man’s best friend. The crack canine agents, who have been protecting the
entire human race, are in trouble. One of their top field dogs has been put out of commission
and they have been forced to employ the use of a rookie Beagle puppy agent named Lou. As
the maniacal Mr. Tinkles and his army of highly trained soldiers begin a mass mobilization, the
fate of humankind rests in the paws of a young pup that has yet to prove himself in battle.
Cats and Dogs
84 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
Categories: Comedy
Dove Worldview:- This digitized live action family comedy about power-crazed cats and secret
agent dogs pays hysterical homage to the best of Warner Brothers cartoons. And with salutes
to the covert plots of “Mission Impossible,” “James Bond” and “Get Smart,” that studio gives
us a fanciful farce about a power-mad pussycat that looks like Ernst Stavros Blofeld’s
pampered feline and behaves like a deranged Frasier Crane. But it’s not easy wanting to take
over the world while saddled with the moniker “Mr. Tinkles.” Like the Brain in “Pinky and the
Brain” (yer darn right I watch it!), Mr. Tinkles has delusions of grandeur. He wants to rule the
world. Trouble is, the housemaid keeps dressing him up in frou-frou outfits and pink bows,
bringing secretive snickers from his minions.
If you think the old Bugs Bunny/Wile E. Coyote cartoons are too aggressive for your little ones,
then you might want to resist taking them to “Cats and Dogs.” But I found the producers used
great care and sensitivity with the action sequences. I think it is obvious that no animals are
really hurt during the slapstick battle sequences.
The producers are also careful about the amount of dog poop gags. Unlike many of today’s
comedies, including the wildly successful “Shrek,” its humor is not based on crudity.
It’s magic time in Hollywood. Warner Brothers continues to break ground in the digital world
of computer graphics. The expressions, including dogs that wink and smile, are simply
outstanding. There are a lot of visual gags as well as truly clever dialogue and situations. And
although many singles may experience a tinge of embarrassment when purchasing tickets to
this one, most parents will find themselves laughing as much, if not more, than their little ones.
Reviewer: Phil Boatwright, Source: Theater, Company: Warner Brothers, Writer: John Requa,
Glenn Ficarra, Director: Lawrence Guterman, Producer: Andrew Lazar, Chris Defaria, Warren
Zide, Starring: Jeff Goldblum, Elizabeth Perkins and voices of Toby Maguire, Alec Baldwin,
Sean Hayes, Susan Sarandon, Jon Lovitz, Michael Clarke Duncan.
Genre: Family, Runtime: 87 min. MPAA Rating: PG
Synopsis:- Steve Carell reprises his role as the polished, preening newscaster Evan Baxter of
"Bruce Almighty," and is the next one anointed by God to accomplish a holy mission in the
hilarious new comedy "Evan Almighty". Blockbuster comedy director Tom Shadyac ("The
Nutty Professor," "Liar Liar," "Bruce Almighty") returns behind the camera for this next
episode of divine intervention. This time, however, his cast grows two-by-two.
Newly elected to Congress, Evan leaves Buffalo behind and shepherds his family to suburban
northern Virginia. Once there, his life gets turned upside-down when God (Morgan Freeman)
appears and mysteriously commands him to build an ark. But his befuddled family just can't
decide whether Evan is having an extraordinary mid-life crisis or is truly onto something of
Biblical proportions...
Evan Almighty
90 Minutes
Categories: Comedy
Dove Worldview:- "Evan Almighty" is, in my opinion, much better than its predecessor, "Bruce
Almighty." For one thing, it is much more family friendly, yet the laughs are not diminished. In
fact, this film is quite funny. The audience I saw the movie with laughed almost continuously
throughout the film. Evan can't get away from God's command to build an ark just as in
Genesis 6:14 the Bible speaks of God's command that Noah build the ark. Evan is awakened at
6:14 a.m., and this particular number just keeps popping up in his life.
The humor escalates when he can't get rid of his beard and his hair begins to lengthen. His
futile attempts to hide this from his family and co-workers adds to the hysterics. If anyone
questions why the film deals with a flood, when the Bible records there would be no second
flooding of the earth, the filmmaker takes care of that honorably as well. In fact, a lesson is
learned in the way it is handled. There were a couple of crude words uttered but overall, this
film is entertaining and its message in the form of an acronym, Acts of Random Kindness
(ARK), is a great one. Without giving too much away, Evan struggles with why he would be
chosen to build an ark. Yet, as I once read, the Titanic was built by professionals but the ark
was built by an amateur! We approve this film for ages twelve and above, due to some
language issues mentioned below. However, It was refreshing to see a film in which people
prayed and opened up the Bible and looked into it.
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Theater, Company: Universal Pictures, Writer: Steve
Oedekerk and Joel Cohen and Alec Sokolow, Director: Tom Shadyac, Producer: Gary Barber,
Starring: Steve Carell, Lauren Graham, Jimmy Bennett
Synopsis:- Mr. Popper, a successful real estate developer in Manhattan, receives a curious gift
from his late father: a penguin. Soon enough, he receives five more penguins while attempting
to get rid of the first one and a tale of family, friendship and commitment ensues. Mr. Popper's
children, his ex-wife and even his secretary get caught up in the fun of protecting Popper's new
penguin family. When a zookeeper tries to take the penguins away, the Popper family must
work together to save them and stick together.
Mr Popper's Penguins
94 Minutes
Categories: Comedy
Dove Worldview:- This delightful film deals with family issues like parenthood and divorce in
a light but positive way. Popper (Jim Carrey) is estranged from his father, who traveled
incessantly when he was a child. When Popper himself grows up, his job also becomes more
important than his children, and his children, who spend most of their time with his ex-wife,
see him only when he has time for them. Through the course of the movie, Popper begins to
see that his children – both the human ones and the penguins – are much more important than
his work. Additionally, his new, more compassionate spirit allows him to rekindle a romance
with his ex-wife. As he gains respect for the importance of family, he also begins to respect
history and tradition. While his initial goal as a real estate agent is to acquire and tear down a
historic building in Central Park, his newfound values convince him that rebuilding and
restoring is greater than destroying and purging.
We are pleased to award Mr. Poppers Penguins our Dove "Family-Approved" Seal for ages 12
and over.
Reviewer: Emily Manthei, Source: Theater, Company: 20th Century Fox, Writer: Sean Anders
(screenplay), John Morris, Director: Mark Waters, Starring: Jim Carrey, Carla Gugino, Angela
Lansbury, Madeline Carroll, Maxwell Perry Cotton
Synopsis:- The indomitable Madeline (newcomer Hatty Jones) and her 11 friends live at a
school run by Miss Clavel (Frances McDormand) in an old house in Paris. The smallest of all
the girls, Madeline is also the most adventurous. She loses her appendix but gains an awesome
scar, falls into the Seine only to be rescued by a dog whom the girls later adopt and name
Genevieve, and matches wits with Pepito, the devilish son of the Spanish Ambassador who
moves in next door.
Company: Buena Vista Home Video, Genre: Drama, Runtime: 90 min., MPAA Rating: PG
Theatrical Release: 7/10/1998, DVD Release Date: 7/10/1998
Madeline
85 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
Synopsis:- New high school graduate Grace and her best friend Emma are heading off to Paris
for to fulfill Grace’s lifelong dreams. But when her mother and soon-to-be stepfather send
Grace’s new stepsister, Meg, along to “supervise” the trip, the two friends are not so thrilled
with their new, uptight counterpart. Undeterred, the three set off on Grace’s pre-packaged tour
and itinerary, which proves to be much less than any of them expected. Just when they think
Paris can’t get any worse, they discover that Grace has a doppelganger, in the form of an
English socialite, Cordelia Winthrop Scott. They discover that Cordelia is leaving her hotel
suite in Paris and tickets to a Monte Carlo charity function behind and heading off to Seville to
see some friends. When Grace is mistaken for Cordelia at the hotel, she - with the support of
her friends - decides to assume Cordelia’s identity and the three take off for Monte Carlo,
where they discover friendship, love and their own hidden selves through the guise of another.
Monte Carlo
101 Minutes
Age Restrictions: 13 V
Dove Worldview:- "Monte Carlo" is a coming-of-age story about losing yourself and finding
out who you really are. Although the premise of the film revolves around Grace’s deception of
all those around her, she does eventually see the error of her ways. Emma sits like the “bad
angel” on Grace’s shoulder, telling her to take her fate in her hands and be Cordelia because
she won’t be caught; meanwhile, responsible and uptight Meg is the “good angel” on the other
shoulder and tells her that it’s wrong to be someone she’s not and enjoy all of the good things
the deception would provide. While Grace chooses Emma’s side for most of the film, she
struggles with her conscience, which eventually compels her to confess to Cordelia and the
other wealthy socialites she’s come to know that she is, in fact, an impostor. Through her initial
mistake, she learns the value of honesty. All three girls, through the experience, learn to more
fully accept who they truly are.
Reviewer: Emily Manthei, Source: Theater, Company: 20th Century Fox, Writer: Thomas
Bezucha, April Blair, Maria Maggenti, Director: Thomas Bezucha, Producer: Stan Wlodkowski,
Starring: Selena Gomez, Leighton Meester, Katie Cassidy, Cory Monteith, Andie MacDowell
THE DUST FACTORY is a lightly redemptive allegory about a mute boy, Ryan, his grandfather
and a little girl who fall through the railroad bridge trestle and finds themselves in a beautiful
netherworld with no growth, no progress, and apparently no hope. The little girl takes Ryan to
the Big Top, where people can decide to take a trapeze leap of faith. If they fall, they crash and
become dust and return to the real world; if they succeed in their jump, they go to heaven
This is a great message to give pre-teens and teens. They are struggling with the
death/purpose/meaning of life conundrum. Our world is a destructive place and they feel out
of control and powerless. Self-destructive behaviors are on the increase (alcohol, drugs,
cigarettes, illicit sex, and driving without seat belts). Ryan engages in some risky behaviors
(rollerblading in the middle of the street and crossing a rotting bridge), but the power given to
him was the power of his own voice which came from inside himself.
The Dust Factory
95 Minutes
Categories: Romance
Release Date: October 15th, 2004, Genre: Sci-fi/Fantasy, Audience: All ages, Rating: PG,
Runtime: 100 minutes, Distributor: MGM, Producer: Eric Small and Tani Cohen EXECUTIVE
PRODUCER: Erika Lockridge, Writer: Eric Small
Synopsis:- James Robert Kennedy, a.k.a. Radio (Cuba Gooding Jr.), is a mentally challenged
teenager who lives with his mother in a small South Carolina town. Radio, so named for his
love for music and vintage radios, is the school laughing stock and spends much of his time
simply walking back and forth through the town while his mother works at the local hospital.
Harold Jones (Ed Harris), the town’s respected high-school football coach, begins to take an
interest in Radio, who responds slowly, being extremely introverted. Coach Jones takes Radio
under his wing and, as the months go by, a warm friendship develops between the two. The
coach’s life takes an ironic turn and is deeply changed following a tragic incident in Radio’s life.
Through some deeply heart-stirring scenes, joyful events and delightfully funny moments, the
small town, Coach Jones and Radio form a life-long bond that remains to this day.
Radio
109 Minutes
Categories: Drama
Dove Worldview:- Based on a true story, "Radio" is an inspiring picture about a life lived to do
good for others and the difference that one person can make. Coach Harold Jones (Ed Harris)
gives a strong performance as does Cuba Gooding Jr. as Radio. The film contains some strong
language, but it’s used in a comical context as the simple-minded young man repeats several
times something he hears. Besides this, the film is remarkably motivational, ranking up there
with movies such as "Rudy" and "Remember the Titans." The PG rating is appropriate, and
parents should consult our content listing below to decide if they choose for their children, ages
twelve and above, to see it. This film contains footage at the end of the real-life Radio, and we
are glad to award our Dove "Family-Approved" Seal to this movie.
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Theater , Company: Columbia Tri-Star Pictures , Writer:
Mike Rich , Director: Michael Tollin , Producer: Herb Gains , Starring: Cuba Gooding Jr., Ed
Harris, Debra Winger
Genre: Drama , Runtime: 109 min. , MPAA Rating: PG
Synopsis:- Blending state-of-the-art animation with live action, Hop tells the comic tale of Fred,
an out-of-work slacker who accidentally injures the Easter Bunny and must take him in as he
recovers. As Fred struggles with the world's worst house guest, both will learn what it takes to
finally grow up
Hop
95 Minutes
Categories: Comedy
Dove Worldview:- This movie has something for all ages. It was better than I anticipated and
more than a few adults laughed out loud including me. The filmmakers really bring the rabbit,
known as "E.B." (Easter Bunny), alive in this one. E.B. doesn't want to be the next Easter Bunny,
he'd rather be a drummer for a rock band. When he leaves his father and home behind he meets
Fred O'Hare (James Marsden), a young adult whose parents are trying to force him out of the
nest. E.B. finds there is more of a need for his abilities as a bunny than he ever realized. This is
what E.B. needs after the Playboy mansion turns him down, even though E.B. tells them he is a
"sexy bunny". When Fred meets E.B. he can't believe a bunny can actually speak so he
introduces himself as "Fr-Fred". "It's nice to meet you Fr-Fred" replies E.B.
Fred and E.B. become friends and realize they share a similar background. In a humorous scene
E.B. drags his foot like he's been injured to gain sympathy and the animators really nail this and
similar scenes in the movie and there was a lot of laughter at the screening I attended. There is a
scene in which the Pink Berets (female bunnies) shoot darts at characters which causes sleep but
there is no graphic or gratuitous violence in this fantasy world. Both Fred and E.B. do their
share of growing up by the film's ending and we highly recommend this movie as a wholesome
way to spend 95 minutes. You'll see Easter candy made by the bunnies and you might be
surprised by where the jelly beans come from, but this is a fun and safe family film. Hop on
over to your theater and see it now!
Reviewer: Edwin L. Carpenter, Source: Theater , Company: Universal Pictures , Writer: Cinco
Paul & Den Daurio , Director: Tim Hill , Producer: John Cohen
Genre: Comedy , Runtime: 95 min. , MPAA Rating: PG
Starring: James Marsden, Russell Brand, Kaley Cuoco, Hank Azaria
Summary:- True inspirational story of Sonora Webster, stunt rider at Atlantic City's Steel Pier
amusement pier during the Great Depression, who continued to perform after an accident left
her permanently blind. A well-crafted movie, WILD HEARTS CAN'T BE BROKEN emphasizes
courage, persistence, repentance, and forgiveness.
Review:-WILD HEARTS CAN'T BE BROKEN is the true inspirational story of Sonora Webster,
stunt rider at Atlantic City's Steel Pier amusement pier, and a wonderful testimony to the
determination of the human spirit.
Wild Hearts Cant' Be
Broken
86 Minutes
Age Restrictions: A
Categories: Drama
Daydreams of love, adventure and stardom were the fantasies of many young girls growing up
during the Great Depression. For 16-year-old Sonora Webster, those "dare to live your dream"
desires were her one-way ticket away from obscurity and the colorless existence of life in rural
Georgia circa 1932.
Suspended from school, with the prospect of becoming a ward of the state looming on the
horizon, Sonora runs away from her aunt to answer a newspaper advertisement for a diving
horse girl, a fearless female brave enough to leap from a tower platform 40-feet high, astride a
gallant horse, and plunge into a tank of water.
Only Sonora's impetuous nature doesn't land her the job. Besides, W.F. Carver's traveling stunt
show already has a diving horse girl, Marie. However, the show's owner is impressed with
Sonora's spunk and so hires her as a stable hand. Sonora manages to capture the heart of
Carver's wayward son, Al, who helps train Sonora to earn a place in the act.
Sonora gets her chance when Marie dislocates a shoulder but has to go it alone when a longstanding rift between father and son drives Al away. Al remains devoted to Sonora, who
becomes a popular attraction, writing her letters which the senior Carver secretly burns.
Al eventually returns to the show and effects a reconciliation with his pop, telling him he has
negotiated a contract with Atlantic City's Steel Pier amusement pier. On the way there, in a
tenderly shot scene, the elder Carver stops along the roadside to rest under a shady tree, and
observing the gentle blowing away of a dandelion, he dies.
Al steps in to fill his father's shoes and later publicly proposes marriage to Sonora as she climbs
the tower platform. Tragedy strikes when Sonora hits the water with her eyes open, causing
blindness. Fiercely determined to do the impossible, Sonora sets out to prove that a dream
worth having is a dream worth fighting for.
WILD HEARTS CAN'T BE BROKEN is a film for the whole family, which moves beyond the
simple coming-of-age theme of a plucky youngster falling for an older suitor to incorporate a
real-life tragedy. After the accident leaves her permanently blinded, Sonora continues to
perform, learning she must fit reality to her dreams and, in essence, finds that far away place in
her own heart. Interestingly, all three players in the film have, in their own way, wild hearts.
Even more interesting, is that all are broken as they are reconciled with one another and learn to
live with their limitations.
The only hitch in the story is Sonora's rebellious attitude in the beginning and her aunt's one
dimensional characterization. With a little adjustment, the script could have emphasized the
positive and soared.
Even so WILD HEARTS CAN'T BE BROKEN affirms that God gives us the desires of our heart
(Psalm 37:4), though it ignores his precondition that we must first delight ourselves in Him.
Furthermore, the film calls on us to act on our dreams now, for as James 4:14 notes, "you are a
mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes," a point tenderly brought home by the
dandelion scene. Also figuring prominently is a biblical theme of repentance and forgiveness.
As far as the action sequences go, in which a horse charges up a platform where its daring rider
attempts a moving mount, kudos are in order.
Release Date: May 24th, 1991
Starring: Gabrielle Anwar (Sonora Webster), Michel Schoeffling (Al Carver), & Cliff Robertson
(Dr. W.F. Carver)
Genre: Drama, Audience: Family, Rating: G, Runtime: Approximately 88 minutes
Distributor: Buena Vista, Director: Steve Miner, Producer: Matt Williams, Writer: Matt Williams
& Oley Sassone

Catalogue ‒ Family Friendly Part 3 - Legacy DVD

Transcription

Similar documents

Polish Film Festival Flyer 8_5x5_5

here

Tom Malloy Press Kit

ASEF at Tropfest Roughcut

When Bebo dropped in

A Terrain of Legends reviewed in

press conference invitation

mapping perception - European Media Art Festival

Hu Jie on Thinking for Oneself in Mao`s China