THE GRINCH | New Trailer | In Theaters November 9

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For their eighth fully animated feature, Illumination and Universal Pictures present The Grinch, based on Dr. Seuss’ beloved holiday classic.

The Grinch tells the story of a cynical grump who goes on a mission to steal Christmas, only to have his heart changed by a young girl’s generous holiday spirit. Funny, heartwarming and visually stunning, it’s a universal story about the spirit of Christmas and the indomitable power of optimism.

[UNSET][1]Academy Award® nominee Benedict Cumberbatch lends his voice to the infamous Grinch, who lives a solitary life inside a cave on Mt. Crumpet with only his loyal dog, Max, for company. With a cave rigged with inventions and contraptions for his day-to-day needs, the Grinch only sees his neighbors in Who-ville when he runs out of food.

Each year at Christmas they disrupt his tranquil solitude with their increasingly bigger, brighter and louder celebrations. When the Whos declare they are going to make Christmas three times bigger this year, the Grinch realizes there is only one way for him to gain some peace and quiet: he must steal Christmas. To do so, he decides he will pose as Santa Claus on Christmas Eve, even going so far as to trap a lackadaisical misfit reindeer to pull his sleigh.

Meanwhile, down in Who-ville, Cindy-Lou Who—a young girl overflowing with holiday cheer—plots with her gang of friends to trap Santa Claus as he makes his Christmas Eve rounds so that she can thank him for help for her overworked single mother. As Christmas approaches, however, her good-natured scheme threatens to collide with the Grinch’s more nefarious one. Will Cindy-Lou achieve her goal of finally meeting Santa Claus? Will the Grinch succeed in silencing the Whos’ holiday cheer once and for all?

Find out, Christmas season 2018.

Movie Review by Kristin: WONDER | #ChooseKind

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What’s up, movie lovers?

I finally got to watch WONDER and I have to say . . . I loved it! It’s perfect for the family, and it’s perfect to watch on your own. Doesn’t really matter how you watch it as long as you watch it!

SYNOPSIS: Based on the New York Times bestseller, WONDER tells the inspiring and heartwarming story of August Pullman. Born with facial differences that, up until now, have prevented him from going to a mainstream school, Auggie becomes the most unlikely of heroes when he enters the local fifth grade. As his family, his new classmates, and the larger community all struggle to find their compassion and acceptance, Auggie’s extraordinary journey will unite them all and prove you can’t blend in when you were born to stand out.

The cast in WONDER was absolutely fantastic. Isabel (Julia Roberts), Nate (Owen Wilson) and Via (Izabela Vidovic) are a great support system to little Auggie (Jacob Tremblay) and their individual performances are amazing as well. Of course, the one who stands out the most is Auggie.

Jacob Tremblay had to undergo lots of prosthetic work to portray the character, who was born with Treacher Collins syndrome, and he does such a great job throughout the entire film. For such a young actor, he really embodied this role in every aspect.

Aside from Auggie, one of my favorite characters in WONDER was Jack Will (Noah Jupe). Jack’s character was apprehensive about Auggie at first, but once he got to know him, he realized how much he actually liked him. It think the dynamic between Jack Will and Auggie is one of the main “lessons” taught here. He was apprehensive, became friends with Auggie, went along with what the bullies were saying when Auggie wasn’t around, and then he was hurt when Auggie stopped speaking to him. It was a realistic portrayal of how kids behave at that age. Once Jack was able to see how good of a person Auggie was as opposed to the other kids, he was able to fully embrace his friend and make others do the same.

The entire movie was funny, adorable, heartwarming and realistic. Definitely a great movie to watch with your kids and a real conversation starter about how to treat others. My favorite quote from the movie comes from Auggie’s sister, Via:

“If they stare, let them stare. You can’t blend in when you were born to stand out.”

LA LEYENDA DEL CHARRO NEGRO Hits Select U.S. Theaters on March 23

LA LEYENDA DEL CHARRO NEGRO Hits Select U.S. Theaters on March 23

The 5th installment in the “La Leyenda” franchise is coming to U.S. theaters on March 23.

Picking up from the events of Chupacabras, Leo and his brother Nando are returning home to Puebla.

Along the way, Leo encounters the Charro Negro who confuses him and results a girl to be cast into the underworld.

To revert his mistakes, he enlists the help of his friends.

LA LEYENDA DEL CHARRO NEGRO
In Select U.S. Theaters March 23

 

Michael B. Jordan and Michael Shannon Light It Up in HBO Official Teaser Trailer for ‘FAHRENHEIT 451’

What’s up, movie lovers??

I must say, after watching this teaser trailer earlier today . . . I’m intrigued. I’m also a little salty that they’re BURNING BOOKS. What a waste!

FAHRENHEIT 451 is a film set for release this May on HBO. The film is also based on the 1953 dystopian novel (ironically) of the same name, written by Ray Bradbury.

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Michael Shannon and Michael B. Jordan

 

SYNOPSIS: In a terrifying care-free future, a young man, Guy Montag, whose job as a fireman is to burn all books, questions his actions after meeting a young girl…and begins to rebel against society.

I love that Michael B. Jordan seems to be everywhere these days. What a phenomenal actor! So glad he’s getting the recognition he deserves. Hot on the heels of the successful Black Panther release in theaters, I’m excited to catch this in the next few months.

What did you think of the teaser? Did you read the novel? Let me know!

 

OVERBOARD | Debut Trailer Released! | #OverboardMovie

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Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Pictures (MGM) / Pantelion Films / 3 PAS Studios have released the debut trailer of OVERBOARD, a fresh take on the iconic romantic comedy.

SYNOPSIS: In a splashy new twist, Overboard focuses on “Leonardo” (EUGENIO DERBEZ), a selfish, spoiled, rich playboy from Mexico’s richest family and “Kate” (ANNA FARIS), a working class single mom of three hired to clean Leonardo’s luxury yacht. After unjustly firing Kate and refusing to pay her, Leonardo falls overboard when partying too hard and wakes up on the Oregon coast with amnesia. Kate shows up at the hospital and, to get payback, convinces Leonardo he is her husband and puts him to work – for the first time in his life. At first miserable and inept, Leonardo slowly settles in. Eventually he earns the respect of his new “family” and co-workers. But, with Leonardo’s billionaire family hot on their trail and the possibility of his memory returning at any moment, will their new family last or will Leonardo finally put the clues together and leave them for good?

OVERBOARD is available in theaters everywhere on April 13, 2018!

OVERBOARD Official Channels:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | #OverboardMovie

Official Trailer & Poster for BAD SAMARITAN

Bad Samaritan

One bad night. One Bad Decision. Can Haunt you forever.

“BAD SAMARITAN” is a terrifying cautionary tale of two thieves uncovering more than what they bargained for when breaking into a house they thought would be an easy score.

After making a shocking discovery, they must choose to run and hide, or face the killer whose dark secrets they have exposed.

In Theaters March 30

 

Watch the Second Trailer for JURASSIC WORLD: FALLEN KINGDOM

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It’s been four years since theme park and luxury resort Jurassic World was destroyed by dinosaurs out of containment.

Isla Nublar now sits abandoned by humans while the surviving dinosaurs fend for themselves in the jungles.

When the island’s dormant volcano begins roaring to life, Owen (Chris Pratt) and Claire (Bryce Dallas Howard) mount a campaign to rescue the remaining dinosaurs from this extinction-level event.

Owen is driven to find Blue, his lead raptor who’s still missing in the wild, and Claire has grown a respect for these creatures she now makes her mission.

Arriving on the unstable island as lava begins raining down, their expedition uncovers a conspiracy that could return our entire planet to a perilous order not seen since prehistoric times.

With all of the wonder, adventure and thrills synonymous with one of the most popular and successful series in cinema history, this all-new motion-picture event sees the return of favorite characters and dinosaurs—along with new breeds more awe-inspiring and terrifying than ever before.

Welcome to “Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.”

Stars Pratt and Howard return alongside executive producers Steven Spielberg and Colin Trevorrow for “Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom.”

They are joined by co-stars James Cromwell, Ted Levine, Justice Smith, Geraldine Chaplin, Daniella Pineda, Toby Jones, Rafe Spall and Isabella Sermon, while BD Wong and Jeff Goldblum reprise their roles.

Directed by J.A. Bayona (The Impossible), the epic action-adventure is written by Jurassic World’s director, Trevorrow, and its co-writer, Derek Connolly.

Producers Frank Marshall and Pat Crowley once again partner with Spielberg and Trevorrow in leading the filmmakers for this stunning installment. Belén Atienza joins the team as a producer.

JURASSIC WORLD: FALLEN KINGDOM
In Theaters June 22

 

RED SPARROW | Big Game and #IMAX | #redsparrow #sb52

IMG_2124What’s up, movie lovers??

In one month, on March 2nd, prepare to experience 20th Century Fox’s spy thriller RED SPARROW in IMAX! Directed by Francis Lawrence, the film stars Jennifer Lawrence, Joel Edgerton, Matthias Schoenaerts, Charlotte Rampling, Mary-Louise Parker and Jeremy Irons.

SYNOPSIS:

Dominika Egorova is many things.
A devoted daughter determined to protect her mother at all costs.
A prima ballerina whose ferocity has pushed her body and mind to the absolute limit.
A master of seductive and manipulative combat.

When she suffers a career-ending injury, Dominika and her mother are facing a bleak and uncertain future. That is why she finds herself manipulated into becoming the newest recruit for Sparrow School, a secret intelligence service that trains exceptional young people like her to use their bodies and minds as weapons. After enduring the perverse and sadistic training process, she emerges as the most dangerous Sparrow the program has ever produced. Dominika must now reconcile the person she was with the power she now commands, with her own life and everyone she cares about at risk, including an American CIA agent who tries to convince her he is the only person she can trust

Tune in Sunday for #SB52 to catch the new RED SPARROW TV Commercial. Here’s a teaser:

RED SPARROW hits theaters everywhere on March 2nd!

 

Official Channels:

Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | #RedSparrow

Enter to Win! WONDER | DVD #Giveaway | Arrives on Digital 1/30 & 4k Ultra, Blu-ray & DVD 2/13 | #choosekind #wonderthemovie

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“The perfect film for the entire family.”
—    Mark S. Allen, ABC TV

A Heartwarming Story About Kindness, Love and Friendship

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The Critically Acclaimed Film Arrives on Digital January 30 and 4K Ultra HDTM Combo Pack, Blu-rayTM Combo Packand DVD on February 13

4K Ultra HD to include both Dolby Vision and Dolby® TrueHD

Wonder_BD_3DThe incredibly moving and heartfelt family film, Wonder, heads to Digital January 30 and 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (plus Blu-ray and Digital), Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital), DVD, and On Demand February 13 from Lionsgate. Based on the #1 New York Times bestseller, and USA Today’s top-selling book of 2017, by R.J. Palacio, writer-director Stephen Chbosky (Beauty and the Beast, The Perks of Being a Wallflower) brings to life the uplifting story of a boy who inspires and teaches others that true beauty is found within. Certified Fresh™ on Rotten Tomatoes and co-written for the screen by Steven Conrad and Jack Thorne, Wonder stars Academy Award® winner Julia Roberts (2000, Best Actress, Erin Brockovich), Academy Award® nominee Owen Wilson (2001, Best Writing, The Royal Tenenbaums), Golden Globe® nominee Mandy Patinkin (1984, Best Actor – Motion Picture – Musical/Comedy, Yentl; 1995, Best Television Actor – Drama Series, “Chicago Hope”; 2003, Best Supporting Actor – Limited Series or Television Motion Picture, “Homeland”), and Jacob Tremblay (RoomThe Smurfs 2).

Wonder follows the inspiring story of the Pullman family, whose youngest child, Auggie, is a boy born with facial differences. When Auggie enters mainstream elementary school for the first time, his extraordinary journey unites his family, his school, and his community, and proves that you can’t blend in when you were born to stand out.


I have 3 copies to give away and here’s what you have to do to enter…

FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER, INSTAGRAM AND/OR FACEBOOK & MESSAGE ME ON THE RESPECTIVE PLATFORM(S) WITH THE HASHTAG #A2Kwonder

Hint: The more places you follow, the better your chances at winning!  😉

Yes, that’s all you have to do!

 

This promotion will end February 14 at 10:00 AM (eastern time). Only one entry per person. No purchase necessary. U.S. residents are eligible to enter. Winners will be contacted via email. AccordingtoKristin.com and other promotional partners are not responsible for lost, stolen, or misdirected mail.


The Wonder home entertainment release includes all-new special features, including a never-before-seen 5-part documentary, multiple featurettes, a music video, and an audio commentary with Stephen Chbosky and R.J. Palacio. The 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray also features Dolby Vision high dynamic range (HDR), growing Lionsgate’s library of titles featuring both Dolby Vision and Dolby TrueHD. Dolby Vision transforms the TV experience in the home by delivering greater brightness and contrast, as well as a fuller palette of rich colors. The 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray versions feature Dolby TrueHD, which provides the most authentic lossless audio experience available for the home theater. Together Dolby Vision and Dolby TrueHD allow consumers to experience both cutting-edge imaging and lossless audio sound technology for an immersive entertainment experience.

Timed to the book’s sixth anniversary, and to Valentine’s Day, Wonder will be available on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, and DVD for the suggested retail price of $42.99, $39.99, and $29.95, respectively.

4K UHD/BLU-RAY/DIGITAL SPECIAL FEATURES

  • “Summer of Fun” 5-Part Documentary
    • “A (com)Passion Project” Featurette
    • “Family Matters” Featurette
    • “A Technical Wonder” Featurette
    • “A Note of Kindness” Featurette
    • “We All Deserve a Standing Ovation at Least Once in Our Lives” Featurette
  • “A Child’s Sense of Wonder” Featurette
  • “What a Wonderful World” Featurette
  • Audio Commentary with Stephen Chbosky and R.J. Palacio
  • “Brand New Eyes” Music Video
  • WonderSoundtrack: Behind-the-Scenes Featurette

DVD SPECIAL FEATURES

  • Audio Commentary with Stephen Chbosky and R.J. Palacio
  • “Brand New Eyes” Music Video
  • WonderSoundtrack: Behind-the-Scenes Featurette

 

Official Channels:

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | #ChooseKind #WonderTheMovie

MOLLY’S GAME | Available on Digital 3/27 and on Blu-ray & DVD 4/10 | @Mollys_Game #MollysGame

JESSICA CHASTAIN AND IDRIS ELBA DELIVER AN ELECTRIC PERFORMANCE
IN THE REMARKABLE TRUE STORY

MOLLY’S GAME

2018 ACADEMY AWARD® NOMINEE FOR BEST ADAPTED SCREENPLAY BY AARON SORKIN

AVAILABLE ON DIGITAL MARCH 27, 2018
AND ON BLU-RAY AND DVD APRIL 10, 2018

BD_MollysGame_OCard_3DFrom Aaron Sorkin, the mind behind The Social Network, Moneyball, and The West Wing, comes the astounding true story of 26-year-old Molly Bloom, who through sheer nerve, wits, and acumen builds an empire and takes over the ultimate boys club: exclusive high-stakes poker in Molly’s Gamearriving on Digital March 27, 2018 and on Blu-rayTM, DVD, and On Demand April 10, 2018 from STXfilms and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Nominated for an Academy Award® for Best Adapted Screenplay, this sensational film is “one of the most radically entertaining things Aaron Sorkin has ever written” (David Ehrlich, Indiewire) and “Unendingly satisfying” (Richard Lawson, Vanity Fair).  Molly’s Game on Blu-rayTM, DVD and Digital comes with special bonus content that takes viewers deeper into the life of Molly Bloom and the making of the film.

Two-time Academy Award® nominee, Jessica Chastain (The Help, Zero Dark Thirty), delivers a powerhouse performance as the tenacious Molly Bloom and is joined by an outstanding cast including Golden Globe® winner Idris Elba (Star Trek: Beyond, Beasts of No Nation), Academy Award® nominee Kevin Costner (Hidden Figures, Man of Steel), Michael Cera (“Arrested Development,” Superbad) Jeremy Strong (The Big Short, Detroit), Chris O’Dowd (Bridesmaids, “Girls”) and Bill Camp (“The Night Of,” Hostiles).

Written and directed by Academy Award® winner Aaron Sorkin, Molly’s Game is based on the true story of Molly Bloom, an Olympic-class skier who ran the world’s most exclusive high-stakes poker game for a decade before becoming a target of the FBI. Her players included Hollywood royalty, sports stars, business titans and, unbeknownst to her, the Russian mob. Her only ally was criminal defense lawyer Charlie Jaffey (Idris Elba), who learned that there was much more to Molly than the tabloids led us to believe.

BONUS FEATURE on BLU-RAYTM and DVD

  • Building an Empire – Writer/Director Aaron Sorkin and star Jessica Chastain comment on Molly Bloom and her remarkable story.

Official Channels:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | #MollysGame

 

 

Astronaut Paper Mache Helmet Instructions Courtesy of WONDER

Astronaut Paper Mache Helmet Instructions Courtesy of WONDER

Written by Jesus Figueroa

REACH FOR THE STARS

ASTRONAUT PAPIER-MÂCHÉ HELMET

Check out these simple instructions to make an astronaut papier mâché helmet like the one the main character wears in the movie “Wonder.”

Making this astronaut paper mâché helmet is a fun activity to do with the kids.

Spend some time with some of the young ones in your life as you create something fun.

A Heartwarming Story About Kindness, Love and Friendship

WONDER

The Critically Acclaimed Film Arrives on Digital Jan. 30 and 4K Ultra HDTM Combo Pack, Blu-rayTM Combo Pack and DVD on February 13

4K Ultra HD to include both Dolby Vision™ and Dolby® TrueHD

The incredibly moving and heartfelt family film “Wonder” heads to Digital Jan. 30 and 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (plus Blu-ray and Digital), Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital), DVD, and On Demand Feb. 13 from Lionsgate.

Based on the #1 New York Times bestseller, and USA Today’s top-selling book of 2017, by R.J. Palacio, writer-director Stephen Chbosky (Beauty and the Beast, The Perks of Being a Wallflower) brings to life the uplifting story of a boy who inspires and teaches others that true beauty is found within. Certified Fresh™ on Rotten Tomatoes and co-written for the screen by Steven Conrad and Jack Thorne, Wonder stars Academy Award® winner Julia Roberts (2000, Best Actress, Erin Brockovich), Academy Award® nominee Owen Wilson (2001, Best Writing, The Royal Tenenbaums), Golden Globe® nominee Mandy Patinkin (1984, Best Actor – Motion Picture – Musical/Comedy, Yentl; 1995, Best Television Actor – Drama Series, “Chicago Hope”; 2003, Best Supporting Actor – Limited Series or Television Motion Picture, “Homeland”), and Jacob Tremblay (Room, The Smurfs 2).

“Wonder” follows the inspiring story of the Pullman family, whose youngest child, Auggie, is a boy born with facial differences. When Auggie enters mainstream elementary school for the first time, his extraordinary journey unites his family, his school, and his community, and proves that you can’t blend in when you were born to stand out.

The “Wonder” home entertainment release includes all-new special features, including a never-before-seen 5-part documentary, multiple featurettes, a music video, and an audio commentary with Stephen Chbosky and R.J. Palacio.

The 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray also features Dolby Vision high dynamic range (HDR), growing Lionsgate’s library of titles featuring both Dolby Vision and Dolby TrueHD. Dolby Vision transforms the TV experience in the home by delivering greater brightness and contrast, as well as a fuller palette of rich colors.

The 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray versions feature Dolby TrueHD, which provides the most authentic lossless audio experience available for the home theater.

Together Dolby Vision and Dolby TrueHD allow consumers to experience both cutting-edge imaging and lossless audio sound technology for an immersive entertainment experience.

Timed to the book’s sixth anniversary, and to Valentine’s Day, Wonder will be available on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, and DVD for the suggested retail price of $42.99, $39.99, and $29.95, respectively.

4K UHD/BLU-RAY/DIGITAL SPECIAL FEATURES

  • “Summer of Fun” 5-Part Documentary
    • “A (com)Passion Project” Featurette
    • “Family Matters” Featurette
    • “A Technical Wonder” Featurette
    • “A Note of Kindness” Featurette
    • “We All Deserve a Standing Ovation at Least Once in Our Lives” Featurette
  • “A Child’s Sense of Wonder” Featurette
  • “What a Wonderful World” Featurette
  • Audio Commentary with Stephen Chbosky and R.J. Palacio
  • “Brand New Eyes” Music Video
  • Wonder Soundtrack: Behind-the-Scenes Featurette

DVD SPECIAL FEATURES

  • Audio Commentary with Stephen Chbosky and R.J. Palacio
  • “Brand New Eyes” Music Video
  • Wonder Soundtrack: Behind-the-Scenes Featurette
#ChooseKind #WonderTheMovie

 

Omar Chaparro, Marimar Vega & Ryan Carnes Star In “LA BODA DE VALENTINA” | In theaters February 9th

US Poster

What’s up, movie lovers?!

Check out the synopsis and trailer for LA BODA DE VALENTINA, which is set for release in theaters on February 9th.

Also, check back in because Jesus got a chance to speak with Ryan Carnes and will be posting the interview soon!

SYNOPSIS: Valentina seems to have the perfect life in New York, with a perfect job and a perfect boyfriend, Jason Tate—far, far away from her scandalous political family in Mexico. When Jason proposes to her and wants to go to home to meet the family she has been keeping a secret, her two worlds clash. Adding to the hilarious chaos, her family brings her ex, Angel, into the picture and convinces Valentina to go along with a sham marriage to him in an effort to stop further negative press as her father runs for re-election. In the end, Valentina must choose where her heart belongs.

SINOPSIS: Valentina aparentemente tiene la vida perfecta en Estados Unidos. Su universo tiembla cuando Jason, su novio, le propone matrimonio y debe enfrentar a su familia “los perfectos Tate” con la suya “los Hidalgo”, la dinastía política más caótica y surrealista de la historia de México. Ambos, tendrán que sobrevivir al choque cultural y a su carismático ex novio Ángel descubriendo en el camino que al final, las cosas que de verdad importan no tienen apellido, ni fronteras.

@Thisfunktional Talks With Tobin Bell JIGSAW

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Actor Tobin Bell talks with Jesus Figueroa, @Thisfunktional of Thisfunktional.com, about continuing on with “Jigsaw.”

Bell talks about having gotten the opportunity to build a character throughout 8 movies, creating the voice of Jigsaw and how incredible the horror fans are.

Saw Escape Las Vegas is now open. for more info and for reservations sawescaperoom.com.

JIGSAW
Now Available On 4K Ultra HD,
Blu-ray, DVD And On Demand
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@Thisfunktional Talks With Jason Egan SAW ESCAPE LAS VEGAS

Written by Jesus Figueroa

Escape room Designer Jason Egan talks with Jesus Figueroa, @Thisfunktional of Thisfunktional.com, about creating Saw Escape Las Vegas.

Egan talks about being a big fan of the “Saw’ franchise, re-watching all 8 movies and picking his favorites scenes and locations from the movies to design for fans to enjoy and the surprise that came from making something better than what was in the design.

Saw Escape Las Vegas is now open. for more info and for reservations sawescaperoom.com.

SAW ESCAPE LAS VEGAS
Open Now

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Movie Review by Kristin: THE GREATEST SHOWMAN | #GreatestShowman @GreatestShowman

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Ladies and gentlemen, I finally got to see The Greatest Showman last night!

There’s a new movie theater that I’ve been wanting to check out and this seemed like the perfect opportunity. After work, we headed down there, grabbed a flatbread pizza and lounged in our extra comfy recliner seats. This may not come as a surprise, but I am a sucker for musicals and I’ve been so excited to watch this one–especially because one of my favorite dancers, Shannon Holtzapffel aka The Tattooed Man aka Prince Constantine is in it. But, you know, life happens and I ended up seeing it super late.

SYNOPSIS: “The Greatest Showman” is a bold and original musical that celebrates the birth of show business and the sense of wonder we feel when dreams come to life. Inspired by the ambition and imagination of P.T. Barnum, The Greatest Showman tells the story of a visionary who rose from nothing to create a mesmerizing spectacle that became a worldwide sensation.

In any case, I really enjoyed it! The soundtrack was absolutely phenomenal and now I’m extra salty that I wasn’t able to be a part of the sing-along viewings they had recently. The movie had a great message about embracing what makes you different, and also to remain true to yourself rather than conforming to society’s idea of perfection just to fit in. I think, in this day and age, these are extremely important messages to convey to younger generations. Bullying is at an all-time high, so it’s important to teach children to be accepting of those who seem different and to be satisfied with themselves despite their own differences. Those messages were never lost throughout the one hour and forty-five minute showtime.

The singing and dancing were fantastic, the cast was great and, while the special effects could have been a bit better, I thought this was a solid musical that everyone should go out and see. Hugh Jackman was the perfect person to play P.T. Barnum. He’s energetic, he’s theatrical and he has a great voice. Fans of Wolverine might be surprised to see him in this kind of role, but most of us knew he got his start doing musicals. Zac Efron and Zendaya were also great, but that was already expected. What wasn’t expected was how good Michelle Williams was playing Barnum’s wife, Charity Barnum. I know she’s a great actress, but she was exceptionally good in this role. Keala Settle plays the role of the “bearded lady” and WOW! She has a powerhouse voice that cuts through every song she’s a part of. This is definitely not the last we’ve heard of her.

I’ve seen some mixed reviews for the film because some thought it was too cheesy. Let’s be honest with ourselves . . . name one musical that hasn’t been cheesy. I’ll wait. I think cheesiness is part of their charm and you’re kidding yourself if you expect otherwise. Go into this one with an open mind and the willingness to have a whole soundtrack stuck in your head for days because that is what will most definitely happen.

Most importantly, show this to your children. Let them dream. Let them be different. Embrace their differences and teach them to be accepting of others. They’re our future, after all.

@Thisfunktional Roundtable Discussion with Dolores Huerta DOLORES

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

Activist Dolores Huerta talks with hispanic media outlets about the continued support for documentary film “Dolores.”

During a panel discussion at the 2018 Winter Television Critics Association, Huerta was joined by Writer-Director Peter Bratt and Consulting Producer Benjamin Bratt.

Peter spoke about finally giving Huerta the recognition she deserves, since history has left her out and given all the light to her equal partner Cesar Chavez.

Benjamin said that he and his brother Peter grew up with an activist mother who would at times protest along side Huerta, so they knew about Huerta and knew what Huerta’s children grew up with.

DOLORES
Will Air On PBS March 27 As Part of INDEPENDENT LENS
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@Thisfunktional at the 12 STRONG Press Conference

Written by Jesus Figueroa (@Thisfunktional)

Cast and Crew of “12 Strong” talk about the making of the movie.

“12 Strong” is a different kind of war story as it portrays American heroes who are tasked with getting close enough to drop bombs on the Taliban to help Afghanistan.

Video Courtesy of Jose Angel Torres of EstrellasEnLA.com.

12 STRONG
Now In Theaters
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PACIFIC RIM UPRISING | New Poster

image001The globe-spanning conflict between otherworldly monsters of mass destruction and the human-piloted super-machines built to vanquish them was only a prelude to the all-out assault on humanity in Pacific Rim Uprising.

John Boyega (Star Wars: The Force Awakens) stars as the rebellious Jake Pentecost, a once-promising Jaeger pilot whose legendary father gave his life to secure humanity’s victory against the monstrous “Kaiju.”  Jake has since abandoned his training only to become caught up in a criminal underworld.  But when an even more unstoppable threat is unleashed to tear through our cities and bring the world to its knees, he is given one last chance to live up to his father’s legacy by his estranged sister, Mako Mori (Rinko Kikuchi)—who is leading a brave new generation of pilots that have grown up in the shadow of war.  As they seek justice for the fallen, their only hope is to unite together in a global uprising against the forces of extinction.

Jake is joined by gifted rival pilot Lambert (The Fate of the Furious’ Scott Eastwood) and 15-year-old Jaeger hacker Amara (newcomer Cailee Spaeny), as the heroes of the PPDC become the only family he has left.  Rising up to become the most powerful defense force to ever walk the earth, they will set course for a spectacular all-new adventure on a towering scale.

Pacific Rim Uprising is directed by Steven S. DeKnight (Netflix’s Daredevil, STARZ’s Spartacus) and also stars Jing Tian, Burn Gorman, Adria Arjona and Charlie Day.

Genre: 3D Epic Adventure
Cast: John Boyega, Scott Eastwood, Jing Tian, Cailee Spaeny, Rinko Kikuchi, Burn Gorman, Adria Arjona and Charlie Day
Directed by: Steven S. DeKnight
Screenplay by: Emily Carmichael & Kira Snyder and Steven S. DeKnight and T.S. Nowlin
Story by: Steven S. DeKnight and T.S. Nowlin
Based on the Characters Created by: Travis Beacham
Produced by: Thomas Tull, Mary Parent, Jon Jashni, Cale Boyter, Guillermo del Toro, John Boyega, Femi Oguns
Executive Producer: Eric McLeod

 

PACIFIC RIM UPRISING – In Theaters March 23

Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | #PacificRimUprising

 

Enter to Win! #Giveaway: JIGSAW DVD | Available now on Digital & on 4k Ultra HD, Blu-Ray & DVD 1/23 |#JigsawMovie

Lionsgate logo

The Trap Is Set When Jigsaw Returns on Digital January 9
and 4K Ultra HD™, Blu-rayCombo Pack and DVD on January 23 from Lionsgate

4K Ultra HD™ to include both Dolby Vision™ and Dolby Atmos®

Jigsaw_TT

The Jigsaw Killer is back and taking his signature brand of twisted scenarios to the next level when Jigsaw arrives on Digital January 9 and on 4K Ultra HD (plus Blu-ray and Digital), Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital), DVD, and On Demand January 23 from Lionsgate. Renown genre directors Michael and Peter Spierig (Daybreakers, Undead) and writers Josh Stolberg and Peter Goldfinger reinvigorate one of the most Jigsaw_DVD_3Dsuccessful horror franchises of all time with their latest installment starring Tobin Bell (Manson Family Vacation, The Firm, The SAW franchise), Laura Vandervoot (TV’s “Smallville” and “V”), Callum Keith Rennie (TV’s “The Man in the High Castle,” “Californication,” Memento), Brittany Allen (It Stains the Sands Red), Matt Passmore (TV’s “The Glades”), and Hannah Emily Anderson (TV’s “Lizzy Borden Took an Ax”).

In the latest terrifying installment of the legendary SAW series, law enforcement find itself chasing the ghost of a man dead for over a decade, embroiled in a diabolical new game that’s only just begun.  Has John Kramer, the infamous Jigsaw Killer, returned from the dead to commit a series of murders and remind the world to be grateful for the gift of life?  Or is this a trap set by a different killer with designs of their own?

 


 

Here’s what you have to do to enter the giveaway…

FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER, INSTAGRAM AND/OR FACEBOOK & MESSAGE ME ON THE RESPECTIVE PLATFORM(S) WITH THE HASHTAG #A2Kjigsaw

Hint: The more places you follow, the better your chances at winning!  😉

Yes, that’s all you have to do!

 

This promotion will end January 26 at 10:00 AM (eastern time). Only one entry per person. No purchase necessary. U.S. residents are eligible to enter. Winners will be contacted via email. AccordingtoKristin.com and other promotional partners are not responsible for lost, stolen, or misdirected mail.


Immerse yourself within Jigsaw’s world with the release’s extensive Special Features, including an all-new 7-Part Documentary, an Audio Commentary with Producers Mark Burg, Oren Koules, and Peter Block, and “The Choice is Yours: Exploring the Props” featurette. The 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray versions feature Dolby Atmos audio mixed specifically for the home, to place and move audio anywhere in the room, including overhead. The 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray also features Dolby Vision high dynamic range (HDR), growing Lionsgate’s library of titles featuring both Dolby Vision and Dolby Atmos. Dolby Vision transforms the TV experience in the home by delivering greater brightness and contrast, as well as a fuller palette of rich colors. Together with the captivating sound of Dolby Atmos, consumers will experience both cutting-edge imaging and state-of-the-art sound technology for a fully immersive entertainment experience.

The must-see Jigsaw will be available on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Combo Pack, Blu-ray Combo Pack, and DVD for the suggested retail price of $42.99, $39.99, and $29.95, respectively.

4K UHD / BLU-RAY SPECIAL FEATURES

  • Audio Commentary with Producers Mark Burg, Oren Koules, and Peter Block
  • “I Speak for the Dead: The Legacy of Jigsaw” 7-Part Documentary
    • “A New Game”
    • “You Know His Name”
    • “Survival of the Fittest”
    • “Death by Design”
    • “Blood Sacrifice”
    • “The Source of Fear”
    • “The Truth Will Set You Free”
  • “The Choice is Yours: Exploring the Props” Featurette

 

DIGITAL SPECIAL FEATURES

  • “I Speak for the Dead: The Legacy of Jigsaw” 7-Part Documentary
    • “A New Game”
    • “You Know His Name”
    • “Survival of the Fittest”
    • “Death by Design”
    • “Blood Sacrifice”
    • “The Source of Fear”
    • “The Truth Will Set You Free”
  • “The Choice is Yours: Exploring the Props” Featurette

 

DVD SPECIAL FEATURES

  • Audio Commentary with Producers Mark Burg, Oren Koules, and Peter Block
  • “The Choice is Yours: Exploring the Props” Featurette

Official Channels:

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | #JigsawMovie

 

LOVE, SIMON | Official Trailer, Soundtrack & First Single Released | #LOVESIMON @lovesimonmovie

IMG_2208Disclaimer: This is about to get romantic af.

20th Century Fox has released the official trailer, soundtrack and first single for their one-of-a-kind teenage drama LOVE, SIMON starring Nick Robinson, Katherine Langford, Alexandra Shipp, Jorge Lendeborg Jr., Miles Heizer, Keiynan Lonsdale, Logan Miller, Jennifer Garner, Josh Duhamel and Tony Hale!

SYNOPSIS: Everyone deserves a great love story. But for seventeen-year old Simon Spier it’s a little more complicated: he’s yet to tell his family or friends he’s gay and he doesn’t actually know the identity of the anonymous classmate he’s fallen for online. Resolving both issues proves hilarious, terrifying and life-changing.

Directed by Greg Berlanti (Dawson’s Creek, Brothers & Sisters), written by Isaac Aptaker & Elizabeth Berger (This is Us), and based on Becky Albertalli’s acclaimed novel, LOVE, SIMON is a funny and heartfelt coming-of-age story about the thrilling ride of finding yourself and falling in love.

Executive produced by Bleachers’ Jack Antonoff, the LOVE, SIMON soundtrack’s first single “Alfie’s Song (Not So Typical Love Song),” via RCA Records is now available for pre-order at all digital retail providers. The official soundtrack is available on all platforms on Friday, March 16, 2018! Check out the full track listing and link to the first single below.

Alfie’s Song (Not A Typical Love Song) – Single
Multi-retailer: http://smarturl.it/AlfiesSongLS


LOVE, SIMON (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) – Album Pre-order
Multi-retailer: http://smarturl.it/LoveSimonOST


LOVE, SIMON
 Soundtrack Track Listing:

  1. Alfie’s Song (Not So Typical Love Song) Bleachers
  2. Rollercoaster Bleachers
  3. Never Fall In Love Jack Antonoff & MØ
  4. Strawberries & Cigarettes Troye Sivan
  5. Sink In Amy Shark**       
  6. Love Lies Khalid & Normani
  7. The Oogum Boogum Song Brenton Wood
  8. Love Me The 1975
  9. I Wanna Dance With Somebody Whitney Houston
  10. Someday At Christmas Jackson 5
  11. Wings Haerts
  12. Keeping A Secret Bleachers*
  13. Wild Heart Bleachers

*Does not appear in film
**Version does not appear in film

LOVE, SIMON will hit theaters everywhere on March 16, 2018!

 

Official Channels:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | #LOVESIMON