Category: Movie Review

StarCentral Kids Movie Review: Forgotten Island. . . A Magical Adventure Full of Friendship and Fun

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DreamWorks Animation takes young audiences on a colourful journey into Filipino folklore, where two best friends discover that being brave is easier when you have someone by your side.

Get ready for an adventure filled with friendship, mystery, laughter and a whole lot of magic! Forgotten Island takes audiences on a journey to the mysterious world of Nakali, where two best friends, Jo and Raissa, find themselves caught up in an extraordinary adventure.

Set in the Philippines during the 1990s, the film follows Jo and Raissa as they become trapped on the mystical island. What begins as a frightening situation soon becomes an unforgettable journey filled with strange creatures, exciting discoveries and challenges that test their friendship.

Welcome to Nakali!

One of the most exciting things about Forgotten Island is its colourful Filipino setting. The movie introduces young viewers to elements of Filipino culture and folklore while creating a fantasy world that feels mysterious and full of surprises.

Nakali isn’t simply a place where the characters happen to be stuck — it becomes an important part of their adventure. From the magical surroundings to the creatures they encounter, there is always something new to discover.

For kids, this makes the movie feel like stepping inside a storybook where anything could happen.

Friendship Is at the Heart of the Story

At its centre, Forgotten Island is a story about friendship.

Jo and Raissa may find themselves in a situation that is bigger and scarier than anything they have experienced before, but their friendship gives them the courage to keep going.

The movie reminds young viewers that being brave doesn’t mean never feeling scared. Sometimes, being brave means taking the next step even when you’re nervous — especially when you have a good friend beside you.

It’s a message that makes the adventure feel meaningful without taking away from the fun.

A Colourful Animated World

Visually, Forgotten Island is packed with colourful environments, imaginative characters and magical moments.

DreamWorks Animation brings the world of Nakali to life with the kind of energy that makes animation especially exciting for younger audiences. The island feels like a place where every corner could reveal a new secret.

The combination of fantasy, comedy and adventure keeps the story moving and gives kids plenty to look at throughout the film.

Meet the Voices Behind the Characters

The movie features an impressive voice cast, including H.E.R. as Jo and Liza Soberano as Raissa.

The cast also includes Dave Franco, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Ronny Chieng, Kevin McCann and Lea Salonga.

Their performances help give the characters their own personalities, from the adventurous moments to the funny and emotional ones.

Having a cast with strong connections to Filipino culture also adds to the film’s distinctive identity.

What Can Kids Take Away From It?

Beyond the magical creatures and exciting adventure, Forgotten Island has some great messages for younger viewers.

Friendship matters.
Having someone you trust can make difficult situations easier.

Be curious.
Exploring something unfamiliar can lead to amazing discoveries.

Be brave.
You don’t have to be fearless to be courageous.

Don’t give up.
Sometimes the biggest adventures come from challenges you never expected.

StarCentral Kids Verdict

Forgotten Island is the kind of animated adventure that gives young audiences plenty to enjoy — colourful characters, magical settings, funny moments and a friendship at the centre of the story.

For kids who love fantasy, adventure, friendship and discovering new worlds, Nakali offers plenty of reasons to jump into the adventure.

Most importantly, Forgotten Island encourages young viewers to remember that even when the world feels unfamiliar, having courage, curiosity and a good friend can make all the difference.

STAR CENTRAL KIDS RATING: ★★★★½

FILM DETAILS

Title: Forgotten Island
Studio: DreamWorks Animation
Genre: Animated Fantasy Comedy
Directors: Joel Crawford & Januel Mercado
Featuring the voices of: H.E.R., Liza Soberano, Dave Franco, Jenny Slate, Manny Jacinto, Dolly de Leon, Jo Koy, Ronny Chieng, Kevin McCann and Lea Salonga.

Image Credit: © DreamWorks Animation / Universal Pictures. Official promotional artwork.

StarCentral Kids Movie Review: Minions & Monsters. . . A Chaotic Love Letter to Movies and Mayhem!

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Editorial credit: Opasbbb / Shutterstock.com

The Despicable Me universe has never been short on chaos, but Minions & Monsters takes a surprising detour into something much more layered. Beneath its bright colours, slapstick gags, and familiar Minion mischief, there’s a story that quietly pokes fun at the very place it comes from — Hollywood itself.

At the centre of it all is James, a Minion who doesn’t quite fit the mould. While the rest of his crew happily follows the usual routine of work, obedience, and banana-fuelled distraction, James wants something different: to create. His drawings and ideas are dismissed as pointless by the group’s leader, Dick, but James refuses to let his imagination be flattened. That simple conflict — creativity versus conformity — becomes the emotional spark of the film.

What gives the story its unexpected depth is James’ relationship with Max, an experienced filmmaker who knows exactly how unforgiving the industry can be. Max doesn’t sugar-coat it. He describes a world where art is often reduced to numbers, where creative voices are shaped by producers more interested in control than storytelling. It’s a surprisingly sharp message for a kids’ film, but it’s handled with enough warmth and humour to keep it accessible.

Through Max, James learns to keep going even when the system around him feels stacked against creativity. His journey becomes less about making a perfect film and more about protecting his ideas in a world that keeps trying to reshape them.

As the story unfolds, things spiral into classic Minions-style mayhem. A mysterious creature named Goomi and a gigantic multi-eyed monster named Irene turn the filmmaking dream into a full-blown disaster zone. What starts as a creative adventure quickly becomes a chaotic “film within a film” situation, where everything that can go wrong absolutely does.

James’ small crew adds to the heart of the story. Henry is fearless and loyal, always ready to throw himself into danger for the sake of the camera, while Ed — a deaf Minion who communicates through sign language — becomes the quiet backbone of the group, keeping everything together when things fall apart. Their teamwork gives the film genuine warmth underneath all the chaos.

There are also clever nods to cinema history sprinkled throughout, including a playful sense of old Hollywood silent films and even a surprise cameo that film fans will appreciate. At its best, Minions & Monsters feels like a celebration of movie-making itself — messy, unpredictable, and full of imagination.

But the film isn’t perfectly balanced. The first half is where most of the fun and energy lives, with fast-paced comedy and sharp visual gags that really land. The second half, however, shifts into heavier monster territory, and the story loses some of its rhythm. The humour becomes less consistent, and the emotional thread of James’ filmmaking journey gets slightly buried under the chaos.

Even so, the animation remains outstanding throughout, bursting with detail, colour, and creative design. Voice performances — including a standout turn from Trey Parker as Goomi — add extra personality to an already lively world.

What Minions & Monsters does best is remind us why this franchise works in the first place. Yes, it’s silly. Yes, it’s chaotic. But when it leans into creativity — both in storytelling and in its tribute to cinema — it becomes something more enjoyable and surprisingly heartfelt.

It may not fully stick the landing, but it’s still a fun, energetic ride that celebrates imagination, teamwork, and the messy joy of making something from nothing.

Rating: 3/5 Stars

StarCentral Kids Movie Review: Is Toy Story 5 Worth Watching??

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Editorial credit: tetesong / Shutterstock.com

When we sat down to watch Toy Story 5, we honestly weren’t expecting much. After so many sequels, it would’ve been easy for Pixar to run out of ideas. But even though the movie didn’t completely blow me away, we still walked out of the cinema having a really good time.

Once again, Pixar proves why it’s one of the best animation studios in the world. The animation is absolutely stunning, with every scene packed full of detail and colour. You can really tell there’s years of experience behind every frame. Even when the story feels a bit uneven at times, it still looks incredible from start to finish.

A Story About the Digital World

This time around, Toy Story 5 tackles something very modern — kids growing up in a world dominated by technology. Instead of a classic villain, the film focuses on a broader idea: what happens when toys (and imagination) are pushed aside as children are glued to screens.

It’s actually a pretty clever idea, and it feels surprisingly relevant. The movie shows how playtime is changing, and how toys like Woody, Buzz, and Jessie are trying to find their place in this new world.

Jessie Steps Into the Spotlight

One of the biggest changes in this film is that Jessie finally gets a much bigger role. Woody and Buzz are still around, but this really feels like Jessie’s story. Some fans might miss seeing Woody take charge, but it makes sense — his journey already feels complete.

Jessie is a great choice to lead the film. She’s energetic, brave, and full of heart, and it’s nice to see her finally given the spotlight she deserves. There are also some fun new toy characters introduced, including a tablet-like character that represents modern technology.

Funny, Emotional… but Not Perfect

The movie has plenty of funny moments, some exciting adventure scenes, and a few emotional beats that actually work really well. However, the story does feel a bit uneven at times, and some parts feel like they move too quickly or don’t quite land as strongly as they should.

It’s also a little more straightforward compared to earlier Toy Story films. While kids will definitely enjoy it, older fans might notice that some of the clever layered jokes from previous movies aren’t as strong this time around.

A Message for Kids and Parents

Interestingly, Toy Story 5 feels like it’s aimed just as much at parents as it is at kids. It reflects on how technology is changing childhood, and it might even make adults think about how much screen time kids really get these days.

The message isn’t about blaming technology itself, but more about how it’s used — and how important imagination and play still are.

Final Verdict

Toy Story 5 isn’t the strongest film in the franchise, but it’s definitely far from a disappointment. It’s fun, colourful, and heartfelt, with a strong message at its core. Jessie shines as the lead, the animation is top-tier, and the world of Toy Story still feels full of life.

It might not reach the magic of the original trilogy, but it still proves one thing clearly — even the “weaker” Toy Story movie is still a really enjoyable adventure.

Rating: 3/5 Stars

The Verdict On Moana 2: A Colourful Adventure That Brings the Fun

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The wait is over! Disney’s Moana 2 is here, and it’s ready to whisk you back to the breathtaking world of Oceania. Packed with dazzling animation, exciting adventures, and the return of your favourite characters, this sequel is a treat for kids who loved the first film. While it doesn’t quite match the magic of the original Moana (2016), there’s still plenty to enjoy!

The Story

Set three years after her first journey, Moana teams up with Maui once again, along with a group of brave wayfinders, to find the lost island of Motufetu and break its mysterious curse. The story is full of action, laughter, and teamwork, with lots of lessons about friendship, courage, and never giving up.

However, if you’re hoping for a totally new tale, you might notice the sequel feels a little familiar. It revisits some of the same ideas from the first movie, and Moana doesn’t grow or change as much this time around. But don’t worry—there’s still enough excitement to keep you hooked!

Stunning Animation

If you thought the first Moana was beautiful, wait until you see the sequel! The ocean sparkles, the islands look lush and alive, and every scene is bursting with colour. From the tiniest details on the characters to the sweeping views of the Pacific, it’s like stepping into a magical world.

You might even spot some fun little changes—like Moana’s parents looking older, with grey hairs and smile lines. It’s a sweet touch that makes the story feel like it’s growing up along with its audience.

The Music

One big change in Moana 2 is the music. Lin-Manuel Miranda, the genius behind songs like How Far I’ll Go, didn’t work on this film, and you can tell. The new songs are fun but not as unforgettable. You’ll hum along while watching, but you might not be singing them for days like with the original tunes.

Magical Moments

Even though the story slows down a little in the middle, the movie finishes strong with a heartwarming ending that ties everything together. It’s a feel-good conclusion that reminds us why we love Moana and her adventurous spirit so much.

Should You Watch It?

Absolutely! While Moana 2 doesn’t quite reach the heights of the first movie, it’s still a fantastic sequel with lots of laughs, exciting moments, and gorgeous visuals. Fans of Moana’s first adventure will love seeing her back on screen, and there’s enough fun for a new generation of kids to fall in love with her story too.

Grab some popcorn, sit back, and get ready to sail into another colourful adventure with Moana 2!

Rating: 3/5 Stars

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: The Garfield Movie (2024) – A Purr-fectly Fun Film for Kids!

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Hey there, young movie buffs! Have you ever wondered what it would be like if your favourite lazy cat, Garfield, went on a wild adventure? Well, grab your popcorn and settle in because “The Garfield Movie (2024)” is here to take you on a fun-filled ride!

In this exciting new movie, Garfield’s cosy life takes an unexpected turn when he reunites with his long-lost father, a scruffy alley cat named Vic. Along with his loyal dog friend Odie, Garfield must leave behind his pampered lifestyle and join Vic on a risky heist. The story cleverly weaves together Garfield’s origins and a present-day mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat!

One of the most powerful things about this movie is how it blends fast-paced action, hilarious comic sequences, and heartfelt moments. Just like in the animated dog movie “Bolt,” “The Garfield Movie (2024)” touches the audience’s hearts with its emotional depth. The animation is beautiful, and the cartoon style suits Garfield perfectly.

Chris Pratt, Garfield’s voice, does a fantastic job capturing all the cat’s quirky mannerisms and personality traits. This movie gives Garfield a fuller personality than what we’ve seen in traditional cartoons and TV shows. It’s a refreshing take on our beloved feline friend.

“The Garfield Movie (2024)” is not just for kids but for the whole family to enjoy. Plenty of funny jokes will have you giggling, and even some that the grown-ups will appreciate. The movie also carries a lovely message about family and friendship that everyone can relate to.

While the villain might not be the strongest character in the film, the rest of the cast is entertaining and engaging. Kids will love the over-the-top characters, the humour, and the emotional scenes that make this movie a joy to watch.

In the end, “The Garfield Movie (2024)” is a delightful film that brings laughter and warmth to the whole family. It’s a pleasant, simple, and fun movie that leaves you with a smile. So, if you love Garfield and are looking to have a great time with your family, this movie is a must-watch!

So, gather your family, get comfy, and enjoy “The Garfield Movie (2024).” It’s a purr-fectly fun film that you won’t want to miss!

Editorial credit: chingyunsong / Shutterstock.com

Rating: 3.5/5 Stars

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

The Verdict On Elemental: Is It Worth Your Time Or Money??

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Plot: Set in a world inhabited by anthropomorphic elements of nature, the story follows fire element Ember Lumen (Lewis) and water element Wade Ripple (Athie), who meet and fall in love after Wade is summoned by a plumbing accident at a convenience store owned by Ember’s father, Bernie (Del Carmen).

Cast: Directed by Peter Sohn and produced by Denise Ream, the film was written by Sohn, John Hoberg, Kat Likkel, and Brenda Hsueh, with Pete Docter serving as executive producer. The film also features the voices of Leah Lewis, Mamoudou Athie, Ronnie del Carmen, Shila Ommi, Wendi McLendon-Covey, and Catherine O’Hara.

Review

Pixar has once again proven its mastery in crafting clever and imaginative films that profoundly touch our hearts. In this movie, the characters come to life through the four core elements of fire, air, water, and earth, coexisting in a harmonious yet segregated metropolis akin to New York City. While residing in “Element City,” these elemental beings live separately, as their unique natures prevent them from truly mingling. The water people, privileged in society, effortlessly traverse towering skyscrapers, while the fire people, reminiscent of Asian, Middle Eastern, and European cultures, are confined to Firetown, representing immigrant communities. Earth and air dwell somewhere in between.

At the center of the narrative is Ember (voiced by Leah Lewis), who, alongside her father Bernie (Ronnie Del Carmen), diligently works at their family store in Firetown. Bernie hopes Ember will succeed him in running the business, allowing him to retire. However, Ember grapples with controlling her fiery temperament when dealing with customers. She questions whether inheriting the store aligns with her true aspirations, given her extraordinary gifts, such as the ability to manipulate hot-air balloons and mould glass. Struggling to manage her emotions and connect with others, she often experiences explosive outbursts, turning her from red-hot to a cooling shade of purple.

An unexpected encounter occurs when Water guy Wade (Mamoudou Athie) enters the shop through a mysterious leak, potentially threatening Firetown’s residents. Wade has been investigating the city’s canal system, searching for the source of the leak. Determined to safeguard her father’s business, Ember embarks on a pursuit to prevent Wade from submitting paperwork that would shut their store down. However, circumstances quickly lead to Ember and Wade’s collaboration, and romance ignites.

The film commences with Ember’s parents’ arrival in Element City before her birth. Their culture and appearance subjected them to rejection, prompting them to establish their own business, fostering community among the fire people. The story unfolds as an immigrant’s journey, highlighting themes of overcoming prejudice and social class. Fire people face discrimination, being perceived as dangerous and consequently expelled from various establishments, ultimately residing outside the city’s boundaries.

The film encompasses various flashbacks and backstories, though some are executed more effectively than others. The dialogue reflects simplicity, as expected in a children’s movie. Humorous moments abound, including a popular sport called airball with a team named “The Wind-Breakers” and Wade’s comical struggles with Ember’s family’s hot food. Furthermore, there are endearing moments, like Wade getting stuck in a sponge as a baby.

The strength of the film lies in the chemistry between the main characters. True to the rom-com genre, the initial clash between opposites gradually evolves into a profound connection, momentarily disrupted by a misunderstanding, only to rekindle their love once again. Mamoudou Athie’s emotional depth and sincerity complement Leah Lewis’ spirited performance, generating a romcom-like ambiance. Hilarious first dates and encounters with parents ensue, all shadowed by the underlying issue of physical contact between Ember and Wade. Their romance becomes forbidden territory, as Ember’s father would never approve. “Elemental” boldly explores an interracial love story, a territory Pixar had yet to venture into. The emotionally charged character of Wade and Ember’s feisty persona forge a powerful connection, exemplifying Pixar’s ability to resonate with audiences.

Rating: 3/5 Stars

The Verdict On “Blueback:” Is It Worth Your Time And Money?

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Blueback is an Australian drama film directed by Robert Connolly, based on the novel of the same name by Tim Winton. The movie follows the story of Abby Jackson, a young girl who lives in a small fishing village on the Western Australian coast with her mother, Dora, and her best friend, Blueback, a wild blue groper who lives in the reef just off the coast. It stars Mia Wasikowska, Radha Mitchell, Ilsa Fogg, Liz Alexander, Ariel Donoghue, Clarence Ryan, Pedrea Jackson, Erik Thomson, Eddie Baroo, and Eric Bana.

The movie is a beautiful and heartwarming tale of a girl’s relationship with her environment and how our choices can impact the world around us. Connolly does an excellent job of bringing the novel to life on screen, capturing the stunning landscapes and seascapes of Western Australia, and creating a compelling story that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

At the heart of the movie is the relationship between Abby and Blueback. Abby has a deep connection to the sea and the creatures that live in it, and Blueback is her closest companion. The two share a special bond, and Abby spends much of her time exploring the reef and learning about its marine life. However, when a group of commercial fishermen threatens the reef and its inhabitants, Abby must decide how best to protect her beloved Blueback.

The film touches on important themes such as environmental conservation, the effects of human activities on nature, and the value of protecting our oceans and marine life. The movie’s message is clear – we must take responsibility for our actions and do our part to protect the world around us.

The acting in the movie is superb, particularly that of young actress Ariel Donoghue, who plays young Abby with maturity and depth beyond her years. She is able to convey the complex emotions of the character with authenticity and conviction, and her performance is a testament to her talent as an actor. Radha Mitchell also delivers a powerful performance as Dora, Abby’s mother, who supports her daughter’s passion for the ocean and encourages her to pursue her dreams.

The cinematography in the movie is breathtaking, with stunning shots of the Western Australian coast and underwater scenes that capture the beauty and majesty of the ocean. The music is also excellent, with a score that complements the visuals and enhances the story’s emotional impact.

Overall, Blueback is a beautifully crafted movie that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. It delivers an important message about protecting our environment and its creatures. It does so with a compelling story, strong performances, and stunning visuals. We highly recommend this film to anyone who loves nature and wants to be inspired to take action to protect it.

Rating: 3/5 Stars

Ghostbusters: Afterlife Review: Relies Too Heavily On Fan Service To Feel Like A Complete Film

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Sequels are more often than not derivative stand-ins for the, usually, superior predecessor films; incapable of being surpassed much less properly followed up. “Ghostbusters” is a timeless classic; following a formula no continuing sequel or ill-fated all-female reboot could duplicate successfully. For years, people eagerly awaited the third entry to close out the trilogy but that day and film never came, and eventually; Harold Ramis passed and it seemed like all hope was lost for a proper cap off to such an iconic franchise. Things remained dead and dormant until low and behold; Jason Reitman, son of the original film’s director; Ivan Reitman, took it upon himself to craft the ultimate love letter and cinematic send-off to his father’s flawless work with “Ghostbusters: Afterlife.”

Set many years after the dissolvent of the original Ghostbusters team, a mother (Carrie Coon) and her children; Phoebe and Trevor (Mckenna Grace and Finn Wolfhard) lose their home and are forced to move to a dilapidated house; left to them by their deceased grandfather, in the middle of nowhere to try and make a fresh start. While discovering long-forgotten secrets about their family, Phoebe and Trevor inform their teacher (Paul Rudd) about strange goings-on at their house and in town. Soon, an ancient evil from the Ghostbusters’ past becomes unearthed and now a new generation of Ghostbusters must take on the proton streaming mantle and stop this threat before the world is engulfed by the dead rising from the graves once again.

After the awful, disastrous bomb that was Paul Feig’s “Ghostbusters,” the story and the legacy desperately needed a fresh start. “Afterlife” is, in many ways, not just a continuation of the original story but a genuine love letter to the actors, the fans, and to the reunion that we all hoped we could see but was sadly denied. This is very much a family story; right down to the lineage connecting the director’s love for his father’s work. There are so many callbacks from signature sounds, signs, dialog, and imagery that lovingly take us back to everything that came before while still crafting a new story with new characters that fit into the narrative without being carbon copies of Spengler or Venkman.

While the nostalgia factor plays high with the ghosts featured here, they’re given new takes and new approaches that keep them from being rehashed golden oldies so old and new fans will definitely appreciate them. I cannot begin to describe how pleased I was to see practical effects returning in this modern-day blockbuster. Watching Paul Rudd wrestling with a terror dog face to face while gawking at miniature Stay Puft Marshmallow men in a Walmart brought me more joy and satisfaction than I ever thought possible. Speaking of joy, kudos and much applause are deserved by Mckenna Grace; easily the best character in the film. She may be young but she carries the film with effortless grace (pun intended); nailing every intentionally bad joke and providing an adorable sense of weirdness that perfectly fits in this kind of framework.

Finn Wolfhard is always a welcomed presence though personally, I felt this film could have used more of him and a more developed role outside of “car guy,” same could be said for his would-be girlfriend who got even less but deserved more. Time management seems to be the biggest problem for Jason Reitman’s nostalgia wave to overcome. It takes a bit too long for the new crew to catch their first ghost (though when they do it’s definitely one of the biggest highlights of the film) and other elements including further exploring Ivo Shandor feel rushed for the sake of time. The film wants you to get a feel and sense of who these characters are and how their family is going to hit you in the feels and funny bones then mix in the ghostbusting and try to make it all work cohesively together. For the most part, it works but not quite all the way.

In a lot of ways, “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” relies too heavily on callbacks and fan service to feel like a complete film. This feels like an apologetic reunion to give the fans and Harold Ramis what they always wanted to see happen but spends a bit too much time doing that instead of paving the way for a proper passing of the torch generational send-off. However, while not every new character in the film gets proper in-depth examination, the ones that do excel in personality creativity and genuine comedic spontaneity. Grace and Rudd expand the universe brilliantly with their chemistry and comedy and the stellar ghost hunting sequences are a true spooktacular spectacle to behold when they do occur. There’s room to grow and room for more beyond a fond farewell to Harold Ramis’s legacy and I hope we won’t have to wait another decades-long wait for more.

I give “Ghostbusters: Afterlife” 3 stars out of 4 stars.

Editorial credit: Sarunyu L / Shutterstock.com