• Twitter
  • Google+
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • Tumblr
  • RSS

Dad of Divas

One Dad's Quest to Regain Control of his Kingdom

  • About
  • Dads in the Limelight
  • Contests and Giveaways
  • Fatherhood
  • Reviews
    • Book Reviews
  • College Preparation
  • Disclaimer
  • Entertainment
    • Disney
  • Podcast
  • Travel
  • Work With Me
  • Cookie Policy

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

The Horsemen Ride Again: A New Era of Illusion

February 17, 2026 by dadofdivas

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.

Filed Under: Entertainment, movie Tagged With: entertainment, movie, movie review, movies, Now You See Me: Now You Don’t

Is This Thing On? Love, Laughter, Letting Go

February 16, 2026 by dadofdivas

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.

Filed Under: Entertainment, movie Tagged With: IS THIS THING ON?, movie, movie review, movies

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

Rental Family: A Heartfelt Film About Belonging

January 19, 2026 by dadofdivas

RENTAL FAMILY

Shannon Gorman and Brendan Fraser in RENTAL FAMILY. Photo by James Lisle/Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

Set in modern-day Tokyo, Rental Family follows an American actor (Brendan Fraser) who struggles to find purpose until he lands an unusual gig: working for a Japanese “rental family” agency, playing stand-in roles for strangers. As he immerses himself in his clients’ worlds, he begins to form genuine bonds that blur the lines between performance and reality. Confronting the moral complexities of his work, he rediscovers purpose, belonging, and the quiet beauty of human connection.

Digital & Blu-ray Bonus Materials*

  • Featurette: Rental Family Revealed — Go behind the scenes with Brendan Fraser, director HIKARI, and the Japanese cast as they explore friendship, culture, found family, and filming in Japan in this intimate look at the making of Rental Family.

 

  • Deleted/Extended Scenes:
    • Columbus
    • Crying Session
    • Apology
    • Aiko’s First Client
    • Clearbright
    • Tickets
    • Audition
    • Phone Call
    • Final Montage
RENTAL FAMILY

Brendan Fraser in RENTAL FAMILY. Photo by James Lisle/Searchlight Pictures. © 2025 Searchlight Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

*Bonus features may vary by product and retailer.

Feature Run Time

Approx. 110 minutes

My Take on the Film

Rental Family is a quietly powerful film that proves you don’t need spectacle to leave a lasting impact. Set in contemporary Tokyo, it follows a struggling American actor (Brendan Fraser) who stumbles into an unusual job with a “rental family” agency—playing temporary roles in the lives of strangers who need support, companionship, or simply someone to show up. What begins as performance slowly becomes something more personal, as the connections he forms challenge his assumptions about belonging, responsibility, and what it means to truly care for another person.

Fraser delivers one of his most grounded and emotionally generous performances, blending humor with deep sensitivity as his character navigates cultural differences and ethical gray areas. The Japanese supporting cast is excellent, giving the story authenticity and heart. Thoughtful, moving, and surprisingly funny, Rental Family lingers long after the credits roll.

Filed Under: Entertainment, product review Tagged With: movie, movie review, movies, Rental Family

Song Sung Blue Digital Copy Giveaway!

January 14, 2026 by dadofdivas

Song Sung Blue

Academy Award® nominees Hugh Jackman (Les Misérables, The Greatest Showman) and Kate Hudson (How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, Almost Famous), in her Golden Globe® and Actor Award® nominated role, bring adoration and vulnerability to Focus Features’ inspirational love story SONG SUNG BLUE, arriving exclusively on digital* platforms to buy or rent on January 13, 2026, and on Blu-ray™ and DVD on February 17, 2026, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Based on the award-winning 2008 documentary by Greg Kohs (The Great Alone, AlphaGo), writer and director Craig Brewer (Hustle & Flow, The Poor & Hungry) brings the remarkable true story to life by exploring the power of music and the timeless influence of iconic musician Neil Diamond. Boasting a stellar “A” CinemaScore and Verified Hot with a 97% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, go backstage and experience the strength and perseverance that drives this unforgettable romance as the feature film adaptation comes home with never-before-seen extended musical performances and all new behind-the-scenes featurettes, diving deeper into the drama, humor, and Diamond’s timeless anthems.

Based on an incredible true story, Mike (Hugh Jackman) and Claire (Kate Hudson) are two down-on-their-luck musicians who prove that it’s never too late to find love and follow your dreams. They form a joyous Neil Diamond tribute band called Lightning and Thunder, rising from a humble garage to dive bar gigs to unexpected hometown stardom. When tragedy strikes, their love for each other and passion for music give them the strength to overcome hardships, rediscover hope, and inspire everyone around them.

Reminding audiences that music has the power to heal and unite, SONG SUNG BLUE showcases emotionally riveting performances as Jackman delivers a transformative depiction of a Neil Diamond tribute band performer, with powerful vocals that combine heartbreak and redemption, while Hudson who gives a heartfelt and moving portrayal of a woman who discovers resilience through music as she navigates longing and adversity. The film’s star-studded ensemble cast also features Emmy Award® winner Michael Imperioli (“The Sopranos,” Goodfellas), Ella Anderson (Suncoast, The Glass Castle), King Princess (Bottoms, Crush), Mustafa Shakir (Ghosted, Emancipation), Hudson Hensley (The Wildman of Shaggy Creek), and Academy Award winner Fisher Stevens (The Cove, the Short Circuit franchise) and Emmy Award® nominee Jim Belushi (“Saturday Night Live”). The film is beautifully co-produced by Emmy Award® nominee John Davis (Prey,  I, Robot), John Fox (Game Night, Uglies), and Craig Brewer.

EXCLUSIVE BONUS CONTENT WHEN YOU PURCHASE AT PARTICIPATING RETAILERS:
  • EXTENDED PERFORMANCES:
    • Crunchy Granola Suite
    • Sweet Caroline
  • ONE PLUS ONE EQUALS THREE – There is no Lightning without Thunder. Watch as Hugh and Kate reminisce on their characters’ love story, co-dependency, and their undeniable electricity.
  • LIGHTNING IN THE BOTTLE – A love letter to the small-time performers, go behind the scenes with Writer/Director Craig Brewer to see how he brought SONG SUNG BLUE to life.
  • EYE FOR STYLE – In this featurette, Costume Designer Ernesto Martinez reveals the art of storytelling through stitch and style.
  • FEATURE COMMENTARY WITH WRITER/DIRECTOR CRAIG BREWER

My Take on the Movie

Song Sung Blue is a heartfelt, crowd-pleasing drama that blends romance, grit, and the communal joy of live music. Inspired by the real Milwaukee-area duo behind the Neil Diamond tribute act “Lightning & Thunder,” the film follows Mike (Hugh Jackman) and Claire (Kate Hudson), two struggling performers who find second chances—onstage and with each other. What starts with garage rehearsals and small-bar gigs grows into hometown recognition, powered by Diamond’s timeless songs and the couple’s undeniable bond.

Jackman delivers warmth and quiet intensity, but Hudson is the emotional engine of the movie—raw, funny, and deeply human. Their chemistry feels lived-in, and the musical moments land with authenticity. The story doesn’t shy away from hardship, giving the film real weight and an ending that hits hard. While some details appear dramatized, the film’s spirit rings true: love, resilience, and music as a lifeline.

GIVEAWAY

Filed Under: Entertainment, giveaway Tagged With: entertainment, giveaway, giveaways, movie, Song Sung Blue

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

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

Next Page »
Find Me

Archives

Copyright © 2026