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Introducing Charlie & Harriet: Meet The Emerging Models Behind The Latest Issue Of StarCentral Kids

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Harriet and Charlie Holzner, two vibrant siblings born and raised in the bustling city of Sydney, carry a unique blend of Austrian and Australian heritage. Their Austrian roots come from their father, while their Australian spirit is deeply rooted in their mother’s side of the family. From an early age, the siblings have enjoyed a lifestyle that combines the love of nature, exploration, and athleticism. Whether it’s the golden beaches of Sydney or the rugged trails of the bush, they have always been happiest when out and about, soaking up the beauty of their surroundings.

The Holzner family is known for their love of the outdoors. Frequent beach trips are a cornerstone of their lifestyle, with Both Harriet and Charlie grew up surfing the waves and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Sydney’s coast. It wasn’t just the beaches that captured their hearts; the siblings also enjoy bushwalks, hiking through some of Australia’s most beautiful national parks, and exploring the cafes that line the scenic trails. From zoos to aquariums, museums, art galleries, and theatre shows, Harriet and Charlie’s weekends are always filled with adventure. At home, they love spending time in their backyard swimming pool, where Charlie practices his swimming lessons. Whether they’re catching a glimpse of wildlife, taking part in family activities, or enjoying a refreshing swim, their thirst for discovery knows no bounds.

Charlie’s Sporting Journey

Both Harriet and Charlie were enrolled in the Ready Steady Sport program at just 18 months old, a sign of their family’s early encouragement of an active lifestyle. Charlie, in particular, found his niche in the world of sports. Every Saturday morning, you’ll find him out on the field, still dedicated to his weekly sports routine. Tennis and swimming are where Charlie truly shines. His determination and skill in these disciplines have already set him apart, but his interests don’t stop there.

At home, Charlie is just as captivated by building and creation as he is by athletics. He has a deep love for Lego and STEM activities, constantly working on new designs and inventions. It’s no surprise that Charlie hopes to follow in his father’s footsteps and become an engineer when he grows up. His passion for animals also plays a big role in his life, with his real-life Bluey—a spirited Australian cattle dog—often by his side, providing endless companionship and play.

Harriet’s Passion for Performing Arts

While Charlie thrives on the tennis court and swimming pool, Harriet’s world revolves around the performing arts. From the time she was two, her mother noticed her natural flair for performance. Whether she’s putting on little shows for her family, dressing up in costumes, or bopping around the house singing her favorite tunes, Harriet has always been a star in the making.

Harriet’s formal dance journey began with the Ready Set Dance program, which she completed between the ages of 4 and 5. Since then, her love for dance has only grown. Today, she’s enrolled in an unlimited dance package that includes everything from ballet to hip-hop, jazz, lyrical, tap, acro, cirque, pre-junior technique, and the performance team. Spending over eight hours a week at the studio, Harriet is deeply committed to honing her craft and embracing her passion for dance.

Her hard work paid off in 2023 when, at just six years old, Harriet was awarded the prestigious Petite Scholarship at her end-of-year showcase for Evolve Performance Studios. This recognition gave her a significant boost in confidence, igniting her love for the stage even further. Harriet has since been selected to join a competition troupe for dancers aged 10 and under, where they have competed in six competitions so far in 2024. She’s currently working towards a solo routine with the help of private lessons and also attends drama lessons on Saturdays, where she has performed on stage multiple times. Harriet dreams of gracing the stage in musical theatre when she’s older.

Harriet’s Modelling Journey

2024 marked a significant milestone in Harriet’s blossoming career. In July, she walked the runway for the first time at Australian Kids Fashion Week, a thrilling experience for the young performer. Her talent didn’t go unnoticed—Harriet was selected as a finalist for the November 2024 event in Melbourne, solidifying her potential in the world of modelling. In September 2024, Harriet won the Rising Star Award at the Cover Model Quest, further showcasing her talent and dedication. Meanwhile, Charlie has also embarked on his own modelling journey, walking the runway at just four years old during the same Cover Model Quest event in September 2024. Both kids are represented by Bambini Talent Group, and they are already making waves in the fashion world at such a young age.

Looking ahead, 2025 holds even more excitement for Harriet. She’s gearing up for international modelling opportunities in both New York and Japan, where she’ll walk as a model in Fashion Week. This opportunity is a dream come true for Harriet, who is excited to travel the world and make her mark in both the fashion and performance industries.

A Bright Future Ahead

For the Holzner siblings, the future is brimming with possibilities. Charlie’s engineering aspirations and passion for sports, combined with Harriet’s growing presence in the world of dance, theatre, and modelling, are setting them up for a lifetime of success and fulfillment. Their shared love for exploration and adventure ensures that no matter where life takes them, Harriet and Charlie will continue to chase their passions with the same energy and enthusiasm they’ve shown from the start.

With a strong support system from their family and the world at their feet, Harriet and Charlie Holzner are well on their way to becoming shining examples of what happens when you follow your dreams.

Meet Hollywood’s Rising Star: Grant Feely’s Hollywood Ascent Continues at Lightning Speed

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Photo Credit: Tommy Flanagan

At just 12 years old, Alabama native Grant Feely is again captivating audiences with his remarkable talent in Warner Brothers’ latest action film GUNNER. Feely starred alongside Hollywood heavyweights Luke Hemsworth and Morgan Freeman, portraying a central character in the story of a father, played by Hemsworth, whose children are kidnapped by a dangerous criminal gang. This intense, high-stakes drama sees Feely step into a pivotal role that showcases his depth as an actor and solidifies his place as a rising star.

Feely first made a name for himself in Hollywood when he portrayed young Luke Skywalker in Disney+’s Obi-Wan Kenobi series, acting alongside Ewan McGregor. His portrayal of the iconic character was widely praised, instantly drawing the attention of Star Wars fans and industry insiders alike. Since then, Feely has built an impressive and diverse resume, seamlessly transitioning between different genres.

From his role as a ghost kid in the horror adaptation Five Nights at Freddy’s to playing Timmy in the Shudder original series Creepshow, Feely has proven himself as a versatile young actor. Whether it’s science fiction, horror, drama, or action, his ability to bring complex characters to life has made him one of Hollywood’s most promising emerging talents.

Photo Credit: Tommy Flanagan

Now, after his powerful performance in GUNNER, Feely’s career is set to reach new heights. His upcoming projects include THE MOVERS, a surreal horror thriller in which he stars alongside industry veterans Terrence Howard, Jena Malone, and Christopher Lloyd. He will also take the lead in DEVOTEE, a chilling horror film that follows the story of a boy uncovering dark secrets about his mother, further establishing his place in the horror genre.

Born in Georgia and currently residing in Birmingham, Alabama, Feely’s path to stardom began at seven after being inspired by the hit show Stranger Things. This passion for storytelling ignited his love for acting, and he quickly embarked on a journey that has brought him to where he is today. Beyond acting, Feely enjoys writing, reading, cooking, and traveling, with aspirations to one day write and direct his own projects. His favorite shows—Stranger Things, Cobra Kai, and Raising Dion—have fueled his creative ambitions, allowing him to channel that energy into the roles he takes on.

StarCentral Kids recently caught up with Grant to discuss his journey in the industry, and here’s what went down:

Grant, you’ve had the incredible opportunity to portray young Luke Skywalker in Obi-Wan Kenobi and now star alongside Luke Hemsworth and Morgan Freeman in Gunner. How has your experience in these diverse roles shaped your understanding of acting at such a young age?

These roles have helped me appreciate how tough acting is. Being a good actor requires you to work to get into your character’s head. You have to pull from your life experiences, and if you don’t have many to pull from, you have to find a place within yourself to create the emotions required of your character. It is a lot of work!

Photo Credit: Tommy Flanagan

Your role in Gunner is intense, playing a kidnapped child in a high-stakes action film. How did you prepare for this role, and what was it like working with seasoned actors like Luke Hemsworth and Morgan Freeman?

I have been kidnapped in a few of my other roles, so I feel like I know how to get into that mind space now. I think the fear of being kidnapped is common for kids, so it was easy to be afraid in that scenario. Unfortunately, I never actually met Morgan Freeman. He finished his scenes before I started filming. Working with Luke and other seasoned actors, I have seen how more experienced actors handle themselves on set and transition in front of the camera. Luke Hemsworth was a lot of fun to work with. He jokes around and keeps the mood on set light when the cameras aren’t rolling but is in full professional mode when they are.

Photo Credit: Tommy Flanagan

You’ve worked in a wide range of genres – from science fiction to horror, and now action. Which genre do you enjoy the most, and do you find any one of them more challenging than the others?

The horror genre is my favorite and the most challenging to portray. Evil characters are more complex, I think, and that makes them more difficult and fun for an actor.

You’re also starring in upcoming projects like The Movers and Devotee. Can you give us a sneak peek into these films and your role in them? What excites you most about these projects?

The Movers is a psychological thriller about a family who has been killed by an intruder in their home. They go to an intermediate world where the intruder (also killed) tries to send my character to the underworld in exchange for himself. The Movers also stars Jena Malone, Terrence Howard, and Christopher Lloyd. The most exciting part of this movie is the complex storyline. I cannot wait to see how it turns out.

Devotee is a short film about a boy (me) discovering his mother is part of a cult. I was the central character, and my reactions to this discovery and my interaction with my mom in the film are crucial to the development. It has been exciting to see how well this film has been received at film festivals. It has already been accepted to four film festivals this fall, and I am hopeful to make the red carpet for at least one.

You were inspired to start acting at just seven years old after watching Stranger Things. How did that show influence your love for acting, and what steps did you take to pursue your passion from that moment?

Watching the behind-the-scenes videos of this show really got me interested and made me think I would like to act. I started taking acting lessons at a local acting school (Acting Out! Academy), and things just expanded from there.

Besides acting, you have interests in writing, reading, cooking, and traveling. How do these hobbies contribute to your growth as a young actor, and do they influence your approach to your roles?

I don’t feel like my other hobbies have influenced my approach to roles at all at this point in my career. Traveling helps me experience other cultures, making it more fun when I have to travel for work, but I haven’t had to draw from those experiences yet with my acting roles.

 

Photo Credit: Tommy Flanagan

You’ve had the chance to work alongside some of Hollywood’s most iconic actors, including Ewan McGregor and Morgan Freeman. What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from these experiences, and how has it influenced your approach to acting?

Watching more experienced actors transition from off to on-camera has been interesting. They switch into a different person as soon as the camera is rolling, and the ease with which they do that is neat to see. They really know how to embody their characters, and that has taught me that I have to work to do the same if I want to be successful.

Looking ahead, you’ve mentioned wanting to write and direct your own productions. What kind of stories are you most excited to tell, and how do you see your future in the entertainment industry unfolding?

When I write, I like to write horror stories, but I hope to expand to other genres in the future. I would prefer to act and would love to continue acting. I don’t have a lot of control over that, though, so I hope people will continue to watch and enjoy my work!

Photo Credit: Tommy Flanagan / Photos Supplied by Anderson Group PR

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

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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!

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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

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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!

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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

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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”

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(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!

This article was sourced from a media release sent by Disney+ / Image supplied by Disney+