Author: Gabby

200% Wolf: A Must-See Animated Film Bursting with Energy and Charm

Posted on by Gabby

Title: 200% Wolf
Director: Alexs Stadermann
Starring: Ilai Swindells, Samara Weaving, Jennifer Saunders, Elizabeth Nabben, Akmal Saleh
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

The Australian animated film 200% Wolf is a vibrant, fun-filled adventure that will have kids and adults alike howling with laughter. This sequel to the 2020 hit 100% Wolf takes everything we loved about the original and cranks it up to a whole new level, delivering a story that’s both heartwarming and hilariously entertaining.

Our hero, Freddy Lupin, returns in this new chapter, but he’s not just the cute pink poodle we remember. Freddy thinks he’s got what it takes to lead his werewolf pack, but there’s one small problem—he still struggles to earn their respect. If only he were more… wolfish. Just as he’s grappling with these challenges, a wayward wish transforms Freddy into a full-fledged werewolf, but that’s not all. This wish also brings a mischievous moon sprite to Earth, causing chaos that could lead to the collision of the Earth and the moon!

As Freddy embarks on this new mission to restore cosmic order, he’s joined by his loyal dog pals, including the ever-reliable Batty (voiced by Samara Weaving). The team’s journey is filled with wild escapades, including avoiding a dangerous sorceress with a serious grudge against the wolf pack. The stakes are high, especially as Freddy’s new moon sprite friend is running out of life energy, threatening to fade away forever.

The voice acting in 200% Wolf is nothing short of spectacular. Ilai Swindells, who voices Freddy, brings just the right amount of charm and wit to the role, making Freddy a lovable hero for which audiences will root. Samara Weaving as Batty provides the perfect mix of sass and sweetness, while Akmal Saleh’s Hamish adds plenty of laughs. The standout performance, however, comes from Jennifer Saunders, who absolutely shines as the witchy Max. Saunders relishes every moment of screen time, bringing a delightful energy to the character that’s impossible to resist.

Visually, 200% Wolf is a treat. The animation is lush and expressive, with every scene bursting with colour and creativity. It’s clear that the filmmakers have poured their hearts into making this film a visual feast, and the result is an experience that rivals the best in animated cinema, even Pixar.

But what really makes 200% Wolf special is its story. At its core, this is a film about friendship, teamwork, and believing in yourself. Freddy’s journey to lead his pack isn’t just about proving his strength—it’s about realising that true leadership comes from the heart. The film’s themes are beautifully woven into the narrative, making it not just an entertaining watch but also a meaningful one.

One of our favourite characters was Moopoo, whose antics had us laughing out loud. The humour in 200% Wolf is spot-on, with plenty of jokes that will appeal to both kids and adults. But the film also has its tender moments, balancing the laughs with scenes that are genuinely touching.

200% Wolf is an absolute joy from start to finish. It’s the kind of film that leaves you with a big smile on your face, feeling like you’ve just been on a wild, wonderful ride. In a time when many family films lean towards darker themes, 200% Wolf is a refreshing burst of joy and colour. It’s a must-see at the cinema, and trust me—you’ll want to see this one on the biggest screen possible.

So, if you’re looking for a movie that’s bursting with energy, packed with laughs, and full of heart, 200% Wolf is the one to watch. Take the whole family, grab some popcorn, and get ready to howl with delight. Thank me later!

Movie Review: Despicable Me 4 – A Fun-Filled Family Adventure!

Posted on by Gabby

Hey kids! Are you ready for another adventure with Gru and his hilarious Minions? “Despicable Me 4” is here, packed with laughter, action, and heartwarming moments you won’t want to miss!

In this latest instalment, Gru (voiced by Steve Carell) and his family, including his adorable new son Gru Jr., have to move to a safe house to hide from Maxime Le Mal (voiced by Will Ferrell), an old schoolmate who’s out for revenge. Along the way, they meet new neighbour Poppy Prescott (voiced by Joey King), who wants Gru to help her get into his old school. There’s never a dull moment with the Minions’ silly antics and a bunch of new characters!

The story is full of funny scenes and exciting adventures, just like we’ve come to expect from the “Despicable Me” series. The Minions are as goofy as ever, making everyone laugh with their crazy schemes and silly chatter. The animation is top-notch, with colourful, detailed scenes that bring the world of Gru and his friends to life.

But “Despicable Me 4” isn’t just about laughs. There are touching moments, especially when we see Gru and his son Gru Jr. grow closer. The film does a great job of showing the importance of family and sticking together, even when things get tough.

A few new characters add fresh fun to the mix. Poppy Prescott is a great addition, bringing new challenges and excitement. The voice cast is fantastic, with Kristen Wiig, Pierre Coffin, Miranda Cosgrove, and many others bringing their characters to life.

However, the movie has some parts that feel familiar, and the villain, Maxime Le Mal, isn’t as memorable as we’d hoped. Some of the storylines feel a bit recycled, but the movie still manages to be entertaining from start to finish.

Overall, “Despicable Me 4” is a fun, family-friendly movie perfect for a cinema trip. It’s got plenty of laughs, exciting action, and heartwarming moments that everyone will enjoy. So grab your family, find a comfy spot, and get ready for another delightful adventure with Gru and his Minions. It’s a purr-fect way to spend your day!

Remember, kids, sometimes the best adventures are the ones you share with family and friends. Enjoy the movie!

Editorial credit: chingyunsong / Shutterstock.com

Rating: 3/5 Stars

Introducing Zara: A Rising Star in Entertainment at Just 5 Years Old

Posted on by Gabby

Photo Credit: Tony Palliser of Studio 49

At just five years old, Zara, based in Penrith, is proving to be a natural-born talent destined for greatness in the entertainment industry. Known for her vibrant personality and unwavering confidence, she embarked on her journey this year by starting kindergarten, where she continues to thrive.

Beyond academics, Zara shares a passion for sports with her two older brothers. They enjoy spirited games of football and soccer alongside epic Nerf battles.

From an early age, Zara has honed her skills in front of the camera as a brand rep for Pink Poppy and Lasienna, showcasing a knack for posing that belies her age. Guided by her agent, Melissa Stokes from Mini Models Talent Agency, Zara has secured coveted roles with prominent brands such as Big W and Rebel Sport. Her recent accomplishments include starring in her first TV commercial for Mongrel Boots and filming her debut short film, solidifying her aspirations to become an actress.

Zara’s talents extend beyond acting; she has graced the stage as a backup dancer for DJ Jazzy’s Daydreamers and made memorable appearances at prestigious events like the Fashion Meets Music runway shows. Her runway success culminated in winning the 4-7 age category at Kidz Fashion Week, a milestone that underscores her rising star status in the fashion world.

Dance remains a cornerstone of Zara’s life, having started formal lessons at Bam Performing Arts at the tender age of 2. She recently advanced to the Mini Stars program, where she honed her skills in jazz, tap, hip hop, ballet, acro, cirque, and musical theatre. Her dedication to dance led her to participate in eisteddfods and pursue private lessons, driven by her love for performing.

Zara’s journey into pageantry further amplified her stage presence and self-confidence. Under Kristina’s mentorship at Kristina’s Klassic Beauties, she amassed an impressive collection of titles, including supreme and grand supreme accolades at various pageants. Her crowning achievement came at the National Australian Miss Pageant, where she was named Tiny Miss Australia Regency International.

As she prepares to compete for the Tiny Miss Regency International title in Orlando, Zara continues to embrace every opportunity to shine. Her upcoming appearance at Sydney’s Best Dressed event serves as a fitting prelude to her international debut, showcasing a young talent poised to captivate global audiences.

Zara’s journey embodies resilience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to her craft. With boundless potential and a supportive network, she is set to leave an indelible mark on the entertainment industry, captivating hearts and inspiring young talents worldwide.

StarCentral Kids congratulates Zara on her achievements and eagerly anticipates her future successes in the world of entertainment.

Movie Review: Is Inside Out 2 Worth Your Time and Money? Absolutely!

Posted on by Gabby

Get ready, kids, because Pixar has done it again with their latest masterpiece, Inside Out 2! This film is all about “growing up” in an emotional way, showing us just how tricky and exciting it can be inside our thoughts. With our favourite emotions Joy, Anger, Sadness, Fear, and Disgust back for another adventure, plus some new friends like Embarrassment, Ennui (boredom), Envy, and Anxiety, this is definitely one of the best Pixar movies to date.

The story kicks off with Riley gearing up to start high school and, more importantly, preparing to join the prestigious FogHorn Hockey team. As Riley navigates her hopes of making the team, she faces many challenges that make her emotions go haywire. Her friendship is tested, her confidence wavers and the pressure seems almost too much to bear. But as the story unfolds, everything starts to fall into place, showing us the emotional highs and lows of adolescence.

Riley gets invited to a summer hockey trial by her local coach, which stirs up even more emotions. She feels anxious about separating from her close friends, who will be attending different schools. This anxiety, along with new feelings like Envy and Embarrassment, makes things even more complicated. Riley meets Valentina “Val” Ortiz, the captain of the high school hockey team, and Anxiety starts to take over, pushing the older emotions into the Vault where old memories are kept. This leads to Riley losing confidence and struggling to maintain her friendships while trying to fit in with her new peers.

But don’t worry! Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust embark on a mission to help Riley rediscover her true self. The film’s visual elements are simply amazing, creating a mental model of the brain that’s both imaginative and realistic. Watching Inside Out 2 feels like an emotional rollercoaster, conveying the ups and downs of growing up. The story is beautifully written and executed perfectly, making us feel everything from sadness and fear to excitement and joy alongside Riley.

The introduction of new characters is a real highlight. Each new emotion is relatable and likable in their own unique way. You can truly understand the motivations behind each character, making them all the more engaging.

Inside Out 2 reminds us that growing up can be tough. Overthinking, making decisions, and facing worries and anxieties are all part of life, but the movie reassures us that these challenges will pass. It captures the essence of growing up, making us laugh, cry, and reflect on the importance of understanding and accepting all parts of ourselves. The animation is top-notch, the pacing is spot-on, and the musical score is excellent. The story is heartfelt and beautifully told, and the voice cast delivers incredible performances. Maya Hawke as Anxiety and Ayo Edebiri as Envy are particularly outstanding.

You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you’ll fall in love with this movie. Inside Out 2 is an emotional journey from start to finish, and it’s a must-watch for kids and adults alike. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure inside Riley’s mind!

Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

Meet the Beautiful Finalists Competing at Sydney’s Best Dressed 2024

Posted on by Gabby

Sydney’s Best Dressed is thrilled to announce the finalists for the highly anticipated Little Miss Model of the Year Competition 2024. This prestigious event, dedicated to showcasing young talents aged 12 and below, promises an unforgettable evening of elegance and charm.

Event Details:

  • Date: June 30, 2024
  • Venue: Stamford Plaza Sydney Airport, Mascot

Nestled in the heart of Mascot, the luxurious Stamford Plaza Sydney Airport sets the perfect stage for this year’s competition. The evening will be a dazzling affair, brimming with style, creativity, and the radiant presence of our young finalists.

Meet the Finalists: Join us in celebrating the finalists’ beauty, grace, and talent. These young stars have been selected for their outstanding presence and promise in the world of modelling. Each finalist will bring their unique flair to the runway, captivating the audience with their poise and personality.

Let’s meet the amazing young talents who will compete for the coveted title of Little Miss Model of the Year 2024. This event is not just a competition; it is a celebration of our young participants’ fashion, confidence, and dreams.

 

Exciting News! Catherine Laga‘aia Cast as Moana in Disney’s Live-Action “Moana”

Posted on by Gabby
(Pictured): Catherine Laga’aia. Photo by Alexei Hay. © 2024 Alexei Hay. All Rights Reserved.

 

Guess what? Catherine Laga‘aia from Australia is going to be the new Moana in Disney’s live-action “Moana”! She will embark on an amazing adventure to save her people, sailing across the ocean to the magical island of Motunui.

But that’s not all! Joining Catherine is Dwayne Johnson, who will be back as the hilarious and heroic Maui, just like in the animated movie. The cast also features John Tui from Auckland as Moana’s tough but loving dad, Chief Tui. Frankie Adams, a Samoan-New Zealand actress, will play Moana’s fun and strong mom, Sina. Rena Owen, from Bay of Islands, NZ, will be the wise and wonderful Gramma Tala.

The movie is set to hit Australian cinemas on July 9, 2026, and it’s directed by Thomas Kail, who made “Hamilton” on Broadway and Disney+. He also worked on “Grease Live” and the series “We Were the Lucky Ones.”

This live-action “Moana” will bring the story to life like never before, celebrating the islands, communities, and traditions of Pacific Islanders. Filming starts this summer, and it’s going to be a spectacular adventure!

The movie is produced by Dwayne Johnson and his team at Seven Bucks Productions, along with Beau Flynn from FlynnPictureCo. Lin-Manuel Miranda, who wrote the songs for the original movie, is also a producer. The executive producers include Scott Sheldon, Auli‘i Cravalho (the original voice of Moana), and Charles Newirth. The screenplay is written by Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller, who are both very talented writers with amazing backgrounds.

Get ready for an incredible journey with Moana, Maui, and all their friends in this new live-action film! We can’t wait to see it!