movie review Archives - Dad of Divas

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

July 21, 2026 by dadofdivas

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!

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

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

May 5, 2026 by dadofdivas

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

May 5, 2026 by dadofdivas

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.

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

April 3, 2026 by dadofdivas

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.

The Horsemen Ride Again: A New Era of Illusion

February 17, 2026 by dadofdivas

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

February 16, 2026 by dadofdivas

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.

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

January 28, 2026 by dadofdivas

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.

Imperfect People, Real Love: The Heart of Ella McCay

January 27, 2026 by dadofdivas

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.

Rental Family: A Heartfelt Film About Belonging

January 19, 2026 by dadofdivas

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

*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.

Movie Review – A Cinderella Story: Starstruck

July 13, 2021 by dadofdivas

About the Movie

Finley Tremaine (played by Bailee Madison), a small-town farm girl, longs to spread her wings and soar as an aspiring performer. When a Hollywood film crew arrives in her sleepy town, she is determined to land a role in the production and capture the attention of handsome lead actor Jackson Stone (played by Michael Evans Behling). Unfortunately, a botched audition forces her to change course. Now, disguised as cowboy “Huck,” Finley finally gets her big break. But can she keep the charade a secret from everyone, including her evil stepmother (played by April Telek) and devious step-siblings (played by Lillian Doucet-Roche and Richard Harmon)?

This is the sixth installment in the A Cinderella Story movie series. Other titles include A Cinderella Story (Hilary Duff), Another Cinderella Story (Selena Gomez), A Cinderella Story: Once Upon a Song (Lucy Hale) A Cinderella Story: If the Shoe Fits (Sofia Carson), and A Cinderella Story: Christmas Wish (Laura Marano).

A CINDERELLA STORY: STARSTRUCK is now available on Digital & DVD, and will be coming to HBO Max later this year.

My take on the movie

This movie had a flair all its’ own. Tonight my family had a blast getting into this new Cinderella rendition. As a father of daughters, I loved the character of Finley and while I hate thinking of someone having to hide who they are. This movie allows Bailey Madison to shine in this role. I honestly did not know that she could sing (and she can) and by the end I was waiting in the credits to see if the song she sang in the movie were actually sang by her (they are). Finley’s stepmother and step-siblings definitely hold onto the title of “wicked” and they truly make Finley work for the life she has. The movie had a lot of laughs, fun, some good songs and more. It is a great family-friendly film that you will not want to miss!

Thanks to Warner Brothers for sending me this film to review, but also some great cookies that we could actually paint and eat (my daughters loved doing this)!