Dad of Divas

One Dad's Quest to Regain Control of his Kingdom

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

by

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

Capcom Celebrates Father’s Day with PRAGMATA Update

by

PRAGMATA

In celebration of Father’s Day, Capcom is releasing a small update for PRAGMATA today, which includes the charming Scribble Suit, which originally appeared in the game’s Sketchbook Demo. This hand-drawn gift from Diana is now available to decorate Hugh’s space suit during the duo’s adventures in the full game.

 

PRAGMATA celebrated a two million sales milestone shortly after its initial launch, and has garnered critical acclaim for delivering a fresh gameplay experience that offers an innovative fusion of action and puzzle elements. The game has also won over audiences worldwide with its heartfelt story following the journey of spacefarer Hugh and his curious android companion Diana, who forge an unlikely bond while seeking to escape the moon.

 

Capcom has also released a full-length music video of PRAGMATA’s main theme song “Memories Are You” (composed by Yasumasa Kitagawa with vocals by YU-KA) to mark the occasion. Watch it here on YouTube.

Ready or Not 2 Delivers Chaos, Comedy, and High-Stakes Fun

by

Ready or Not 2
This action?packed, darkly comedic horror sequel expands the Ready or Not mythology with another lethal game of hide?and?seek. Still reeling from her brutal escape from the Le Domas family, Grace is thrust into an even more unhinged bloodbath when she becomes prey once again – this time hunted alongside her estranged sister by four rival families, each ruthlessly vying for absolute power and control of the High Seat of the Council.
In Ready or Not 2: Here I Come, Samara Weaving returns as “Grace” alongside an all?star cast including Kathryn Newton, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Shawn Hatosy, Nestor Carbonell, with David Cronenberg, and Elijah Wood.

Digital & Blu-ray Bonus Features*
  • The Game Goes On: The Making of Ready Or Not 2 – A 4-part behind-the-scenes featurette featuring filmmakers, talent, design and the practical effects.
  • Part 1: Written in Blood – The directors and cast discuss what sets the sequel apart from the first film, and how the team expanded the story in a meaningful way.
  • Part 2: Casting the Chaos – A spotlight on the film’s main cast and what they each brought to their roles.
  • Part 3: Designed for Destruction – Dive deeper into the design and execution of the film’s finale with a look at the set construction, practical effects, and the bloody aftermath left behind.
  • Part 4: Blood, Guts, and Practical Mayhem – Explore how the film’s explosive deaths and blood gags were created with this breakdown of the practical effects and innovations, highlighting how the team built and expanded techniques from the first film.
  • Rules of the Game – Learn the rules of the deadly game of Hide and Seek, from the contained family ritual to the expanded high-stakes hunt.
  • Gag Reel – Check out hilarious outtakes from the making of the movie.
  • Audio commentary by directors / executive producers Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, Samara Weaving, and Kathryn Newton.
  • Audio commentary by directors / executive producers Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, executive producers / writers Guy Busick and R. Christopher Murphy, producers James Vanderbilt and Tripp Vinson, and editor Jay Prychidny.

My Take on the Movie

Ready or Not 2: Here I Come leans fully into the chaos that made the original so memorable, delivering a louder, bloodier, and more expansive follow-up. Samara Weaving returns as Grace, once again thrown into a deadly game—this time with even higher stakes and more ruthless opponents. The addition of Kathryn Newton brings a fresh dynamic, especially as the story explores the tension between survival and family loyalty.

The film wastes little time ramping up the action, trading the tighter focus of the first movie for a broader, more frantic narrative. There’s plenty of over-the-top violence paired with sharp, dark humor that keeps things from becoming too heavy. While some plot elements feel less developed and a few twists are easier to anticipate, the relentless pace and strong performances help maintain momentum.

It may not surpass the original, but this sequel still offers an entertaining, adrenaline-fueled ride that horror-comedy fans will appreciate.

A Heartwarming Animated Adventure That Nature Lovers Will Love

by

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.

Psycho Killer Review: Dark, Brutal, and Surprisingly Entertaining

by

Following the brutal murder of her husband, a Kansas highway patrol officer (Georgina Campbell) sets out on a journey to track down the perpetrator. As the hunt progresses, she comes to realize the man responsible (James Preston Rogers) is a sadistic serial killer, and the depth of his mental depravity and his sinister agenda is more twisted than anyone could have imagined.

My Take on the Film

Psycho Killer delivers a dark and gritty thriller that keeps viewers engaged even when the story follows some familiar genre paths. The film centers on a Kansas highway patrol officer, played by Georgina Campbell, who begins a relentless search for the man responsible for her husband’s death. As the investigation unfolds, she discovers she is hunting a deeply disturbed serial killer portrayed by James Preston Rogers, whose violent tendencies and eerie presence make him a memorable antagonist.

The movie leans into the atmosphere of classic crime thrillers, with tense moments, bursts of shocking violence, and a few well-timed jump scares. While the storyline can feel predictable at times and doesn’t explore every detail of the villain’s past, the pacing keeps things moving and the suspenseful cat-and-mouse dynamic holds attention.

Though it may not redefine the genre, Psycho Killer offers enough intensity and chilling moments to satisfy viewers looking for a quick, gritty horror-thriller experience.

Stranded, Power Shifts, and Dark Humor Collide in Send Help

by

Send Help

 

Sam Raimi describes Send Help as a darkly comedic reversal of power: “What if a woman was cheated by the boys’ club at work, held down by corporate management and a terrible, mean boss who treats her unfairly? And what if they crash-landed on an island and the roles were reversed?” That premise erupts onscreen through the explosive performances of Rachel McAdams (“Linda Liddle”) and Dylan O’Brien (“Bradley Preston”), whose ferocious clash for survival delivers both brutal tension and bursts of unexpected humor.  In “Send Help,” two colleagues become stranded on a deserted island, the only survivors of a plane crash. On the island, they must overcome past grievances and work together to survive, but ultimately, it’s an unsettling, darkly humorous battle of wills and wits to make it out alive.

My Take on the Movie

Sam Raimi’s Send Help thrives on tension, discomfort, and a wicked sense of humor, delivering a survival story that feels both chaotic and oddly satisfying. The film drops two mismatched coworkers onto a deserted island and lets their unresolved workplace dynamics explode in increasingly unpredictable ways. What begins as a story of survival quickly morphs into a psychological tug-of-war, where shifting power and buried resentment take center stage.

Rachel McAdams commands attention with a performance that balances vulnerability and intensity, crafting a character whose transformation is both unsettling and compelling. Dylan O’Brien plays off her energy well, creating a dynamic that keeps viewers guessing where loyalties should lie. Their interactions fuel the film’s uneasy tone, blending sharp humor with moments of genuine unease.

Raimi’s signature style is evident throughout, mixing absurdity with darker undertones in a way that keeps the pacing brisk and engaging. While some plot turns feel slightly telegraphed and certain visual effects fall short, the film’s bold premise and committed performances carry it forward. Send Help isn’t flawless, but it’s an entertaining, offbeat ride that embraces its strangeness and leaves a lasting impression.

It’s Mario Day!

by

Mario Day

 

Nintendo is celebrating the 40th anniversary of the first Super Mario Bros. game with a slew of announcements today, including sales on games featuring Mario and friends through Saturday, and a SUPER NINTENDO WORLD sweepstakes. Check out Mario.Nintendo.com for all the details! Feel free to share the news below. or interact/share any of the posts from @NintendoAmerica!

Highlights include new trailers for two upcoming games:

Nintendo and Illumination also released a brand-new trailer for The Super Mario Galaxy Movie, hitting theaters on April 1, and announced that tickets are available for preorder today! Download the free Nintendo Today! app to unlock a digital Collectible Card (40 in total) based on the movie every day from today through June 10.

Finally, the LEGO Group revealed the newest set in its LEGO Mario Kart line for adults: Mario Kart – Luigi & Mach 8, a 2,234-piece set, with pre-orders now open.

There are even more MAR10 Day festivities on Mario.Nintendo.com, including in-game events for Mario Kart World, a fun digital frame featuring Mario and friends, a new video inspired by Super Mario Galaxy + Super Mario Galaxy 2 on Go Noodle– and more.

The Horsemen Ride Again: A New Era of Illusion

by

Now You See Me: Now You Don’t

A new era of illusionists step into the spotlight, NOW YOU SEE ME: NOW YOU DON’T stars Jesse Eisenberg (The Social Network), Woody Harrelson (Zombieland), Dave Franco (Together), Isla Fisher (Confessions of a Shopaholic), and the new illusionists Justice Smith (Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom), Dominic Sessa (The Holdovers), and Ariana Greenblatt (Barbie). The illusion is only the beginning; every trick has a twist waiting to be revealed.  Please see the attached press release with more information.

SPECIAL FEATURES INCLUDE:
Step behind the curtain of Now You See Me: Now You Don’t with the cast, crew, and creative team, exploring jaw-dropping illusions, stunning sets, high-octane stunts, and insider stories on costumes, locations, and production challenges that bring the film to life for fans old and new.
  • Audio Commentary with Director Ruben Fleischer and Producer Bobby Cohen
  • Lord of Illusions — Follow director Ruben Fleischer as he joins the Now You See Me series, revealing what attracted him to the project and how he balanced his vision with the style of the previous films.
  • Now You See Me… Again — Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Isla Fisher, Dave Franco, and Morgan Freeman come together again, sharing what pulled them back to the franchise and fueled the excitement behind this third film.
  • Heart of Stone — Go behind the scenes as the cast and crew spotlight Rosamund Pike’s portrayal of the formidable Veronika Vanderberg.
  • Quick Change — A spotlight on costume designer Sophie Canale’s creative vision, bringing the characters of Now You See Me: Now You Don’t to life through their wardrobe.
  • Nothing Up My Sleeve — Unveil the magic with insights from the cast and crew on working alongside three renowned magic consultants to create real, on-camera illusions.
  • The Magic Castle — Take a detailed tour of the sets and locations of Now You See Me: Now You Don’t with production designer David Scheunemann, including insights on the Abu Dhabi shoots and production challenges.
  • The Sorcerers’ Apprentices (SteelBook Exclusive)
  • Deleted and Extended Scenes
  • Theatrical Trailer

My Take on the Movie

Now You See Me: Now You Don’t brings the Four Horsemen back into the spotlight with a mix of nostalgia, spectacle, and a fresh generation of illusionists. Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Isla Fisher, and Dave Franco slip comfortably into their roles, while Justice Smith, Dominic Sessa, and Ariana Greenblatt inject new energy into the franchise. The film leans into elaborate set pieces—particularly a stunning chateau sequence—and delivers several clever reveals that remind us why this series works best when it embraces theatricality over realism.

Rosamund Pike’s Veronika Vanderberg adds a sharp edge to the ensemble, even if the character’s motivations feel somewhat underdeveloped. While not as groundbreaking as the original, the film still finds ways to surprise, especially in its final act. Some narrative threads feel uneven, but the behind-the-curtain explanations and globe-trotting production scale keep things entertaining. It may not reinvent the trick, but it confidently pulls another rabbit out of the hat.

Is This Thing On? Love, Laughter, Letting Go

by

IS THIS THING ON?

Will Arnett in IS THIS THING ON? Photo by Searchlight Pictures/Jason McDonald, Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

In Is This Thing On? As their marriage quietly unravels, Alex (Will Arnett) faces middle age and an impending divorce, seeking new purpose in the New York comedy scene, while Tess (Laura Dern) confronts the sacrifices she made for their family – forcing them to navigate co-parenting, identity, and whether love can take a new form.

IS THIS THING ON?

Will Arnett and Laura Dern in IS THIS THING ON? Photo courtesy of Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures All Rights Reserved.

Bonus Feature*

  • Mic Drop: Making Is This Thing On? – Go behind the scenes as filmmakers and cast open up about the inspirations behind this story of love, loss, and starting again. Get a glimpse into working with a remarkable ensemble and hear about how the team developed their comedy sets.


My Take on the Movie

Is This Thing On? is a quietly affecting portrait of a long marriage shifting into unfamiliar territory. Alex (Will Arnett), staring down divorce and the blur of midlife, stumbles into New York’s open mic circuit and discovers that the stage offers something he hasn’t felt in years: clarity. Meanwhile, Tess (Laura Dern) reckons with the compromises she’s made and what independence might now mean.

Rather than framing separation as failure, the film treats it as evolution. The stand-up sequences feel intimate and unvarnished, capturing how humor can expose truths we struggle to say at home. Arnett brings surprising vulnerability, and Dern grounds the story with restraint and intelligence.

Directed with a steady, compassionate hand, the film balances dry wit with emotional honesty. It’s less about punchlines and more about rediscovering identity after shared dreams shift. By the end, you’re left reflecting not just on love lost, but on love reshaped.

Big Laughs, Bigger Heart: Why Zootopia 2 Works

by

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.