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The Mandalorian and Grogu Review: Action, Heart, and Adventure Unite

July 21, 2026 by dadofdivas

THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU

(L-R) Mandalorian (Pedro Pascal) and Grogu in Lucasfilm’s THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU. Photo by Nicola Goode. © 2025 Lucasfilm Ltd™. All Rights Reserved.

Join the Mandalorian and Grogu on their most thrilling mission yet when Lucasfilm’s “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu” arrives on digital platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango July 21, and on 4K Ultra HD and Blu-ray August 25.

Film Synopsis

The evil Empire has fallen, and Imperial warlords remain scattered throughout the galaxy. As the fledgling New Republic works to protect everything the Rebellion fought for, they have enlisted the help of legendary Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his young apprentice Grogu. “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu” also stars Sigourney Weaver, with Martin Scorsese and Jeremy Allen White lending their voices. The film is directed by Jon Favreau and written by Jon Favreau & Dave Filoni & Noah Kloor.

Bonus Features*

FEATURETTES:

  • Crafting “The Mandalorian and Grogu”: Discover the craft behind an epic Star Wars adventure! Go behind the scenes with artists creating the stunning puppetry, miniatures, sound design, and visual effects that bring the worlds, characters, and creatures of “The Mandalorian and Grogu” to life.
  • Biomes—From Snow to Swamp: Voyage with director Jon Favreau and his crew to a pair of brand-new worlds that may seem a touch familiar to fans of the original Star Wars trilogy. Discover how the ingenious filmmakers constructed snowy landscapes and a living swamp from the ground up!
  • Welcome to Shakari: A bustling metropolis like Shakari cannot simply be found—it must be made. Join the film’s fabrication as they build an entire Star Wars city with a downtown warehouse, conjuring an epic playground for Mando and his young apprentice.
  • Dejarik for Real: Sometimes it’s the little things! Who can forget the Millennium Falcon’s charming holochess game introduced in 1977? Witness how the tiny creatures featured in the game were lovingly brought to giant-sized life for the Mandalorian’s big-screen debut!
THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU

Grogu and Anzellans in Lucasfilm’s THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU. Photo courtesy of Lucasfilm. © 2026 Lucasfilm Ltd™. All Rights Reserved.

AUDIO COMMENTARY:

  • Audio commentary by Jon Favreau: Watch the film with audio commentary by director Jon Favreau.

*Bonus features may vary by product and retailer. Only available on Digital and Physical.

My Take on the Movie

Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu successfully brings one of the franchise’s most beloved duos from the small screen to the big screen without losing the heart that made them fan favorites. Pedro Pascal’s Din Djarin remains the steady, honorable protector audiences have come to admire, while Grogu continues to steal nearly every scene with charm, humor, and surprising growth. The story balances thrilling action with quieter moments that strengthen the bond between mentor and apprentice, giving the adventure genuine emotional weight. Visually, the film embraces the cinematic scale expected from Star Wars, with impressive worlds, memorable creatures, and exciting battles that feel larger than anything seen in the series. While longtime viewers may recognize the familiar storytelling style, the movie still delivers an entertaining journey that stands on its own. It may not redefine the galaxy far, far away, but it captures the spirit of adventure, friendship, and hope that has always made Star Wars so enduring.

 

Social Media

YouTube: @StarWars

X: @DisneyStudios; @starwars

Instagram: @DisneyStudios; @starwars

Facebook: @WaltDisneyStudios; @starwars

TikTok: @DisneyStudios; @StarWars

Filed Under: disney, Entertainment, movie, product review Tagged With: disney, entertainment, movie, movie review, movies, product review, Star Wars, THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU

A Heartwarming Animated Adventure That Nature Lovers Will Love

May 5, 2026 by dadofdivas

Hoppers

In this animated comedy adventure, animal lover Mabel seizes an opportunity to use a new technology to ‘hop’ her consciousness into a lifelike robotic beaver and communicate directly with animals. As she makes amazing discoveries, Mabel befriends a charismatic beaver and must rally the entire animal kingdom to face a major, imminent human threat.

Bonus Features*

  • The Critter Diaries: Wander behind the scenes with director Daniel Chong and the Pixar creative team as they explore Yellowstone, study wildlife, and find real-life inspiration for our favorite new animated characters from Hoppers.
  • Hopping In: The Making of Hoppers: Hop into the making of the movie as filmmakers, cast, and crew share how their ideas, collaboration, and creative process brought the story, animation, and lovable characters to life in Pixar’s Hoppers.
  • “Meet King George” Scene Breakdown: Dive deep with director Daniel Chong and the filmmaking team as they reveal the craft of making King George’s Superlodge. Get insight into the directing process, editing, VFX, animation, and production design.
  • Beaverton Revealed: Explore Hoppers to find surprising Pixar film cameos, hidden references, and plenty of fun, behind-the-scenes facts.
  • Dam Good Bloopers: Laugh along with your favorite voice actors from Hoppers as they have fun bringing their characters to life in the recording booth.
  • Deleted Scenes: Check out these scenes that didn’t make the final cut, as introduced by director Daniel Chong and editor Axel Geddes.
    • Cold Open
    • The Glade
    • The Mission
    • Kings Arrive
    • George’s Bachelor Pad
    • Helicopter Ride

My Take on the Movie

As someone who lives in Michigan and spends a lot of time enjoying our own wildlife and natural spaces, Hoppers really struck a chord. Directed by Daniel Chong, this animated adventure blends humor, heart, and an environmental message in a way that feels both entertaining and meaningful. The story follows Mabel, who uses new technology to connect with animals in a completely unexpected way, leading to friendships and discoveries that drive the film forward.

The animation is vibrant and full of personality, especially in the way the animals are brought to life. There’s a warmth to the storytelling that makes it easy to connect with, whether you’re watching as a parent or just someone who appreciates a good animated film. While the central conflict may feel somewhat familiar, the emotional moments and lighthearted humor help carry it through.

For anyone who loves nature—or just a feel-good story—Hoppers offers a fun, thoughtful experience that lingers after the credits roll.

Filed Under: disney, DVD, Entertainment, movie, product review Tagged With: animated movies, animation, cinema, Disney Pixar, entertainment, environmental themes, family entertainment, family movies, feel good movies, film review, hoppers, kids movies, movie, movie night, movie recommendations, movie review, nature lovers, new movies, pixar, storytelling, wholesome films, wildlife

Big Laughs, Bigger Heart: Why Zootopia 2 Works

January 28, 2026 by dadofdivas

Zootopia 2

In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Zootopia 2, rookie cops Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (voiced by Jason Bateman) find themselves on the twisting trail of a great mystery when Gary De’Snake (voiced by Academy Award® winner Ke Huy Quan) arrives in Zootopia and turns the animal metropolis upside down. To crack the case, Judy and Nick must go undercover to unexpected new parts of town, where their growing partnership is tested like never before.

Bonus Features*

  • Featurettes:

o   The Zookeepers — Trot along with writer/director Jared Bush and director Byron Howard for a tour of Walt Disney Animation Studios! Get a behind the scenes look as they open up the doors to meet cast and crew and share about all the work done to bring the movie to life.

o   A City of Stars — Meet the fur-tastic voice actors behind the cast of Zootopia 2 as filmmakers share the joy of having the original cast returning and how each new role found its purr-fect match.

o   Everybody Can Draw! — Sketch along with Benson Shum, Animation Supervisor, as he talks about his role on Zootopia 2 and guides viewers in drawing everyone’s favorite new beaver, Nibbles!

o   Zoo-prising Secrets — Uncover ssssurprising references and characters from some of your favorite Walt Disney Animation Studios films hidden throughout the movie, along with fun facts.

o   Wilde Times in the Booth — Hop inside the recording booth for plenty of laughs and behind-the-scenes fun. See how the hilarious cast brings their characters to life!

o   The Treat Trolley — Meet the cheerful crew behind the Treat Trolley that brings smiles and snacks throughout the halls of Disney Animation to keep the studio artists fueled and energized.

o   “Zoo” Music Video by Shakira — Celebrate friendship and adventure with Shakira in her music video for the movie’s new song, “Zoo.”

 

  • Deleted Scenes – Check out the scenes that didn’t make the final cut, with an overall introduction by directors Jared Bush and Byron Howard.
    • What’s In the Box?
    • Where Are They Now?
    • Animal Hospital
    • Welcome to the Team
    • Desert Festival
    • Clawhauser Tracks Judy
    • A Plight at the Museum
    • Clawhauser’s Family

My Take on the Movie

Zootopia 2 builds on the charm of the original while giving its central duo a more layered adventure. Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde are no longer just mismatched partners; their bond is tested as they chase a city-shaking mystery that pulls them into unfamiliar corners of Zootopia. The story moves quickly, mixing clever humor with moments that carry surprising emotional weight. Kids get the bright action and funny characters, while adults will notice the thoughtful ideas simmering underneath about belonging, history, and who gets to shape a community’s story.

The voice cast brings energy and personality to every scene, and the expanding world feels lively and detailed without becoming overwhelming. New faces add spark, and longtime fans will enjoy the hidden nods tucked throughout. While not every thread goes as deep as it could, the film succeeds as a lively, meaningful sequel that balances fun, heart, and a message about understanding differences — making it an easy family pick.

Filed Under: disney, Entertainment, movie, product review Tagged With: animated adventure, animated films, animation lovers, cartoon movie, cinema review, disney animation, Disney fans, Disney sequel, entertainment, family entertainment, family friendly, family movies, films for kids, Judy Hopps, kids movies, movie, movie night, movie review, movies, Nick Wilde, voice acting, wholesome movies, Zootopia 2

Imperfect People, Real Love: The Heart of Ella McCay

January 27, 2026 by dadofdivas

Ella McCay

Ella McCay follows an idealistic young woman juggling her less-than-perfect family with her passion for her work. From writer-director James L. Brooks, this fresh and heartwarming comedy is about the people you love and how to survive them.
Ella McCay features an all-star cast including Emma Mackey, Jamie Lee Curtis, Jack Lowden, Kumail Nanjiani, Ayo Edebiri, Spike Fearn, Rebecca Hall, Julie Kavner, Becky Ann Baker, Joey Brooks with Albert Brooks and Woody Harrelson. The film is produced by James L. Brooks, p.g.a., Richard Sakai, p.g.a., Julie Ansell, p.g.a., Jennifer Brooks.
Digital & Blu-ray Bonus Features*
Deleted Scenes:
  • “You Win, We Lose”
  • “Forget About The Union Rep”
  • “I Love Girl”
  • “No More Interruptions”
  • “Make Your Family Whole”
  • “A Small Concussion”
  • “Hazel Bottomless”
  • “You Got Him Out”
  • “Nice Family”
Bloopers
Featurettes:
  • A James L. Brooks Film: Go behind the scenes as the film’s star-studded cast and crew share their joy of working with acclaimed writer-director James L. Brooks. Experience Brooks’ singular gift for creating beloved, memorable movie moments — and what it’s like to hear him laugh.
  • In Good Company: The Cast Of Ella McCay: Sit down with James L. Brooks as he talks about his extraordinary cast and as the actors share their respect and appreciation for Brooks — and each other. Hear about the casting process that created heartfelt chemistry both on set and onscreen.

My Take on the Movie

Ella McCay is the kind of character-driven comedy that sneaks up on you. What starts as the story of a young woman trying to stay afloat between career demands and complicated family ties slowly turns into something warmer and more reflective. Ella isn’t polished or perfect, and that’s exactly the point — she’s trying, stumbling, showing up, and learning when to hold on and when to let go. The film finds humor in tense situations without undercutting the emotional weight behind them.

The performances carry the movie beautifully. Emma Mackey gives Ella a grounded mix of determination and vulnerability, while Jamie Lee Curtis adds spark and depth in every scene she’s in. The ensemble feels lived-in, like people with real histories rather than plot devices. Some story threads wander, but the heart of the film — love, responsibility, and surviving the people who know you best — lands with sincerity, leaving you smiling and a little thoughtful on the way out.

Filed Under: disney, Entertainment, movie, product review Tagged With: Ella McCay, entertainment, movie, movie review, movies, review, reviews

The Muppet Show returns Feb. 4

January 3, 2026 by dadofdivas

The Muppet Show

It’s “The Muppet Show!” Kermit, Miss Piggy and the beloved Muppet gang are back with a brand-new special event. Music, comedy, and a whole lot of chaos are bound to ensue when The Muppets once again take the stage of the original Muppet Theatre with their very special guest, Sabrina Carpenter!

From 20th Television, Disney Branded Television, The Muppets Studio and Point Grey Pictures, the special event is directed by Alex Timbers, who also serves as executive producer. Seth Rogen, Evan Goldberg, James Weaver and Alex McAtee are executive producers for Point Grey Pictures; David Lightbody, Leigh Slaughter and Michael Steinbach are executive producers for The Muppets Studio; Sabrina Carpenter, Albertina Rizzo, Matt Vogel and Eric Jacobson are executive producers.

Background on “The Muppet Show”: The original series “The Muppet Show,” created by Jim Henson, ran from 1976 through 1981 and aired in over 100 countries, featuring notable guest stars, including Elton John, Johnny Cash, Diana Ross, Debbie Harry, Gladys Knight, Liza Minelli, Paul Simon and many others. During its run, the series earned Emmy?, GRAMMY?, Peabody, BAFTA and numerous other awards. In a 1978 story, Time magazine called it “the most popular television entertainment now being produced on Earth.” In 2026, “The Muppet Show” will celebrate its 50th anniversary. All five seasons of “The Muppet Show” are currently available to stream on Disney+.

 

Filed Under: disney, Entertainment Tagged With: disney, disney plus, muppet show, muppets, The Muppet Show

Tron: Ares Review: When Systems Face Humanity

December 18, 2025 by dadofdivas

Tron: Ares

 

Get ready for the electrifying action and adventure of Tron: Ares. When a highly sophisticated Program named Ares is sent from the digital world into the real world on a dangerous mission, it marks humankind’s first encounter with AI beings.

Bonus Features*

  • Deleted Scenes
    • Seth’s Date
    • Burning Man
    • Lisberger Cameo
  • Featurettes:
    • The Journey To Tron: Ares: Go on a personal journey with Jared Leto, director Joachim Rønning and other cast and crew members for an in-depth making-of look showcasing the stunning visuals, incredible stunts, cool (but heavy) costumes, and next-level sets of Tron: Ares.
    • Lightcycles On The Loose: Join director Joachim Rønning as he peels back the layers of one of the most action-packed sequences in the film. Discover what ILM and the artists who grew up loving the franchise contributed, and what other iconic film the sequence pays homage to.
    • The Artistry Of Tron: Ares: Director Joachim Rønning and actor-producer Jared Leto sit down to discuss their journey creating Tron: Ares. The pair unpack key moments and the striking visual, sonic and artistic philosophies that drive the storytelling both in and out of the Grid.
    • Cast Conversations: Join the cast in candid conversations as they reflect on stepping into character, memorable on-set experiences, funny anecdotes and personal insights. Get a glimpse of the off-screeHi [NAME],
    • n camaraderie that shines in their electric on-screen synergy.
    • The Legacy Of Tron: Decades after Tron first took the world by storm, and with Tron: Legacy in between, there’s loads of nostalgia to mine for Tron: Ares. Catch some clever easter eggs and noteworthy cameos as this enduring franchise continues to leave its mark
Tron: Ares

Jared Leto as Ares in Disney’s TRON: ARES. Photo by Leah Gallo. © 2025 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

My Take on the Movie

Tron: Ares leans into the franchise’s fascination with boundaries—between systems and people, control and consequence—and uses that tension to drive a sleek, forward-looking chapter. The film thrives most when it lets its ideas breathe: what happens when something engineered for precision is forced to navigate unpredictability? That question gives the story an undercurrent of unease that separates it from a simple action showcase.

Visually, the movie is meticulously composed, favoring sharp contrasts and motion that feels deliberate rather than chaotic. The action sequences are clean and confident, while quieter moments allow the characters to reflect the costs of progress and ambition. Jared Leto’s Ares is restrained and purposeful, more defined by intent than excess, which makes the character’s presence quietly compelling.

While the narrative doesn’t linger on every implication it raises, Tron: Ares succeeds as a thoughtful expansion of its universe—one that respects its roots while daring to explore unfamiliar terrain.

Tron: Ares

A scene from Disney’s TRON: ARES. Photo courtesy of Disney. © 2025 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Tron: Ares

Greta Lee as Eve Kim in Disney’s Live Action TRON: ARES. Photo by Leah Gallo. © 2025 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Filed Under: disney, Entertainment Tagged With: artificial intelligence films, blockbuster sci fi, control versus chaos, cyberpunk cinema, digital worlds in film, Disney sci fi, futuristic movies, Jared Leto Tron, modern sci fi movies, philosophical science fiction, sci fi movie review, Science fiction film, technology and humanity, TRON Ares, Tron Ares review, Tron franchise, Tron legacy sequel, Tron movie review, Tron sequel, visual effects driven films

Marvel Finally Gets the Fantastic Four Right

September 26, 2025 by dadofdivas

Fantastic Four

Copyright Disney 2025

About the Film

Set against the vibrant backdrop of a 1960s-inspired, retro-futuristic world, Marvel Studios’ “The Fantastic Four: First Steps” introduces Marvel’s First Family–Reed Richards/Mister Fantastic (Pedro Pascal), Sue Storm/Invisible Woman (Vanessa Kirby), Johnny Storm/Human Torch (Joseph Quinn) and Ben Grimm/The Thing (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) as they face their most daunting challenge yet. Forced to balance their roles as heroes with the strength of their family bond, they must defend Earth from a ravenous space god called Galactus (Ralph Ineson) and his enigmatic Herald, Silver Surfer (Julia Garner). And if Galactus’ plan to devour the entire planet and everyone on it weren’t bad enough, it suddenly gets very personal.

My Take on the Film

Marvel finally gives the First Family the treatment they deserve with The Fantastic Four: First Steps. From the opening scenes, I was drawn into the retro-futuristic 1960s setting—it’s bold, stylish, and unlike anything else in the MCU so far. What makes this film work isn’t just the cosmic stakes with Galactus and Silver Surfer, but the way the story grounds itself in family dynamics. Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach feel natural together, capturing both the warmth and tension of a real family under impossible pressure.

The film doesn’t waste time retelling their origins, which I appreciated. Instead, it lets the characters breathe while balancing humor, spectacle, and heart. The space sequences in particular are stunning, and Giacchino’s score ties it all together beautifully.

It may follow a familiar “save the world” arc, but the performances and style make it fresh and memorable. Marvel finally got Fantastic Four right.

Filed Under: disney, Entertainment Tagged With: entertainment, fantastic four, marvel, Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel Comics, movie, movies

Elio: A Cosmic Adventure About Belonging and Imagination

August 26, 2025 by dadofdivas

Elio

Elio, a space fanatic with an active imagination, finds himself on a cosmic misadventure where he must form new bonds with eccentric alien lifeforms, navigate a crisis of intergalactic proportions and somehow discover who he is truly meant to be.

Elio

Bonus Features*

  • Inside the Communiverse: The World and Characters of Elio – Launch behind the scenes with the cast and crew to get an in-depth look at the design and development of our meteoric main characters, as well as the making of all the celestial environments that make up Elio‘s universe.
  • Out of This World: An Astro Q&A – Calling all space enthusiasts! Voice actors Yonas Kibreab (Elio) and Remy Edgerly (Glordon) meet with a real-life astronaut to discuss space travel, possible alien life on other planets, and why it’s important to study space.
  • Astronomic Art Class: Ooooo and Glordon – Join Nicolle Castro, the lead story artist, as she shares her role on the film and guides viewers through drawing a couple of the film’s interstellar characters, Ooooo and Glordon.
  • Extraterrestrial Easter Eggs and Fun Facts – Uncover the references and characters from some of your favorite Pixar films hidden throughout Elio, along with other fun facts.
  • Galactic Gag Reel – Discover the fun inside the recording booth with the starry voice actors from Disney and Pixar’s Elio as they bring their characters to life with some entertaining laughs.
  • Deleted Scenes – Check out the scenes that didn’t make the final cut:
    • Bike Chase
    • Garden Party  
    • Carver Legend
    • Questa’s Second Test
    • Home Visit

*Bonus features may vary by product and retailer

Elio

Review

Watching Elio felt like stepping into a colorful daydream that balanced both silliness and heart. From the opening scene, I found myself grinning at Elio’s boundless imagination, and by the time he was mistaken for Earth’s leader, I was hooked. The mix of quirky alien characters and big cosmic adventure reminded me of the kind of movies that first made me fall in love with Pixar.

What stood out most for me was the emotional core. Beneath the laughs and space antics, Elio captured something deeply familiar—the feeling of not quite fitting in and longing to find your place. I caught myself reflecting on those moments in my own childhood, which made the film resonate even more.

The pacing wasn’t perfect, but the visuals were stunning, the humor genuine, and the message uplifting. Elio may not top Pixar’s greatest hits, but it left me smiling and hopeful.

Filed Under: disney, Entertainment Tagged With: animation, disney, Disney Pixar, Elio, entertainment, Pixar Animation Studios

Live-Action Lilo & Stitch Surfs to Digital, Blu-ray This Summer

July 22, 2025 by dadofdivas

Lilo & Stitch

Catch the wave of island vibes with an intergalactic twist when the live-action hit Lilo & Stitch surfs onto digital platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home on July 22, before making its extraterrestrial entry on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD on August 26.

Disney’s Lilo & Stitch has officially crossed $1 billion at the global box office, making it the first Motion Picture Association (MPA) title of 2025 to reach the milestone. Following its record-breaking $183 million Memorial Day weekend debut, the film has become the year’s top-grossing MPA release both worldwide and internationally. Its success has reignited global interest in the franchise, with related content on Disney+ now surpassing 640 million hours viewed. A sequel is currently in development.

This vibrant reimagining of a Disney animated classic brings new energy into the hilarious and heart-warming tale of Lilo and her cute-yet-chaotic adopted “pet” Stitch. Lush tropical settings provide welcoming visuals as warm as the “found family” that Lilo and Stitch create together, while also authentically honoring the cultures and beauty of Hawai’i. Lilo & Stitch is directed by Oscar®-nominated Dean Fleischer Camp and stars Sydney Elizebeth Agudong, Billy Magnussen, Tia Carrere, Hannah Waddingham, Chris Sanders, with Courtney B. Vance, and Zach Galifianakis, while introducing Maia Kealoha.

The Lilo & Stitch digital and Blu-ray releases invite family audiences to dive into fun bonus features including deleted scenes, bloopers, a behind-the-scenes look at lovingly recreating the classic animated film, and sneak peeks of hidden extra touches thoughtfully crafted by the filmmakers. Innovative storytelling for all ages, Lilo & Stitch translates the magic of a Disney classic animated adventure into an immersive and cinematic Dolby Vision® and Dolby Atmos® live-action tale that boasts a 93% Rotten Tomatoes® Popcornmeter and is “fun for the whole family” (Jonathan Sim, Coming Soon).

Bring home the chaos, charm, and cuteness with the must-have Lilo & Stitch 4K UHD Blu-ray SteelBook® edition. Featuring bold cover art with Stitch breaking through the cover, this collectible release includes custom artwork inside and out spotlighting heartfelt moments between Lilo and her mischievous best friend. With its crumpled-paper backdrop and playful design, it’s the perfect addition to any ‘ohana’s collection.

Also available is Disney’s Lilo & Stitch Original Soundtrack featuring new music by Iam Tongi, Mark Keali?i Ho?omalu, Nyjah Music & Zyah Rhythm and an Original Score by Dan Romer. Audiences can stream the soundtrack out now on Amazon, Spotify and Apple Music.

Bonus Features*

  • Deleted Scenes:
    • Nani Cleans Up
    • My Name is Nani
  • ‘Ohana Means Family: Making Lilo & Stitch – Learn how an animated classic becomes an instant live-action favorite. Explore the challenges of bringing Stitch into the real world, how the familiar images of the original were recreated, and join returning cast members on a set that embodies ‘ohana.
  • Drawn to Life – Check out scenes from the animated original film alongside their live-action counterparts to see how these beloved key moments were faithfully recreated. And uncover some easter eggs along the way!
  • Bloopers – Take a look at some of the fun mishaps on set with the cast and crew of Lilo & Stitch.
  • Scenes with Stitch – Hear Stitch talk about some of his favorite scenes as he watches the movie play.
    • Escape To Earth
    • Feeding Fish
    • Hula Performance
    • Stitch Gets Named
    • Bath Time
    • Watch This

*Bonus features vary by product and retailer

My Take on the Movie

The 2025 live-action Lilo & Stitch surprised me in the best way. I went in with low expectations—let’s be honest, not all Disney remakes have nailed it—but this one felt different. It wasn’t just about recreating the original; it brought new emotional layers that made it feel honest and grounded.

Maia Kealoha is absolutely magnetic as Lilo—funny, vulnerable, and totally believable. Her chemistry with Stitch (voiced again by Chris Sanders) hits all the right notes: sweet, chaotic, and deeply endearing. The CGI version of Stitch works better than I expected—he’s expressive without looking cartoonish.

The Hawaiian setting is more than a backdrop—it’s treated with care, and the themes of family, identity, and belonging shine through. There are some changes from the original, sure, but they feel like thoughtful evolutions, not compromises.

This isn’t just a remake—it’s a story that still has something to say. Ohana lives on, beautifully.

Filed Under: disney, Entertainment, product review Tagged With: disney, Disney Movies, Lilo & Stitch, movie

Broken Heroes, Big Impact: Why Thunderbolts Works

July 5, 2025 by dadofdivas

Thunderbolts Blu-ray Packshot

Thunderbolts* turns up the heat this summer as it blasts onto digital platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Fandango at Home on July 1, before making its explosive entry on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD on July 29.

 

The Thunderbolts are The New Avengers, the ultimate surprise to both audiences and Valentina Allegra de Fontaine as this misfit team of burned assets rallies their powers and unites against all odds. Their namesake movie Thunderbolts* is an action-packed, international adventure, with audiences embracing the film’s super-powered humor and adrenaline. Critics lovingly call Thunderbolts* “one of the best Marvel movies of all time” (BJ Colangelo, Slashfilm) and “one of the most enjoyable, fun, and genuinely moving MCU films” (Ross Bonaime, Collider).

 

Bring home the energy and fun of Thunderbolts* in breathtaking 4K Ultra HD with Dolby Vision® and Dolby Atmos® for a truly cinematic superhero experience, complete with stunning visuals and immersive sound. The digital, 4K UHD, and Blu-ray releases include hours of exclusive bonus content – featuring deleted scenes, a gag reel, behind-the-scenes featurettes, and filmmaker commentary by director Jake Schreier. For collectors, the 4K Ultra HD edition will also be available in a limited-edition SteelBook® featuring custom artwork and premium packaging.

 

 

Also available in the U.S., a Walmart exclusive pop-up Blu-ray package unleashes the strength, grit and powerful presence of the Thunderbolts into 3D existence, capturing them in moments of utter determination and focused battle.

 

Film Synopsis

Marvel Studios assembles an unconventional team of antiheroes with Yelena Belova, Bucky Barnes, Red Guardian, Ghost, Taskmaster and John Walker. After finding themselves ensnared in a death trap set by Valentina Allegra de Fontaine, these disillusioned castoffs must embark on a dangerous mission. Forced to confront the darkest corners of their pasts, will this dysfunctional group tear themselves apart, or find redemption and unite before it’s too late?

Bonus Features*

  • Deleted Scenes – Check out the scenes that didn’t make the final cut.
    • Door is Unliftable
    • Gary Announcement

 

  • Assembling a Team to Remember – Spend a bit of quality time with the cast and crew of Thunderbolts* as they divulge how the film’s fictional team of superpowered mavericks, misfits and antiheroes was assembled.

 

  • Around the World and Back Again – Discover the eclectic locations and astounding production design that helped make Thunderbolts* a rousing reality, including a visit to the sprawling sets in Kuala Lumpur where we join Florence Pugh performing stunts atop one of planet Earth’s tallest buildings and blowing up buildings on the streets.

 

  • All About Bob, Sentry & The Void – Deep dive into the making of three different characters: Bob, Sentry, and The Void – all performed by Lewis Pullman.

 

  • Gag Reel – Enjoy fun outtakes on set with the cast and crew of Thunderbolts*.

 

  • Director’s Audio Commentary – Watch the film with audio commentary by director Jake Schreier.

 

*Bonus features may vary by product and retailer

 

My Take on the Movie

As someone who’s been hit-or-miss on Marvel’s recent releases, Thunderbolts honestly surprised me—in a good way. From the opening sequence, I could tell this wasn’t going to be the usual flash-and-quips formula. The emotional core of this story, especially with Yelena and Bucky, really landed for me. These aren’t polished heroes—they’re scarred, guarded, and more human because of it. That made their chemistry feel earned, not forced.

The action is tight and satisfying, especially that unforgettable limo scene, but what stuck with me was how each character wrestled with guilt, trust, and redemption. Lewis Pullman’s Bob was an unexpected highlight—quiet but magnetic. The blend of dark humor, strong pacing, and grounded performances made it feel closer to Winter Soldier than most recent Marvel entries.

It’s a movie about broken people trying to rebuild—something I didn’t realize I wanted in a superhero story until now.

Filed Under: disney, DVD, Entertainment, movie Tagged With: disney, entertainment, marvel, Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel Comics, MCU, movie, movies, product review, Thunderbolts

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