Swinging Into Action: “Your Friendly Neighbourhood Spider-Man” Lands on Disney+!

Attention Marvel fans and budding superheroes! Disney+ is set to release an exciting new animated series, “Your Friendly Neighbourhood Spider-Man,” and we couldn’t be more thrilled. The 10-episode series is set to premiere exclusively on Disney+ on January 29, 2025. Mark your calendars, because this web-slinging adventure is about to take you on a thrilling journey like no other!

A Fresh Take on Spider-Man’s Story

“Your Friendly Neighbourhood Spider-Man” dives deep into the origins of Peter Parker as he embarks on his heroic journey to becoming the Spider-Man we all know and love. But this isn’t just any retelling of the classic story! The show takes inspiration from Spider-Man’s earliest comic book adventures, blending retro vibes with a fresh, modern twist. Expect to see Peter navigating the challenges of high school, friendships, and, of course, the responsibility of being a superhero—all while battling villains and saving the day.

Meet the Voice Cast

The talented voice cast includes Hudson Thames, Colman Domingo, Eugene Byrd, Grace Song, Zeno Robinson, Hugh Dancy and Charlie Cox.  

The Creative Minds Behind the Series

The series has a dream team of creators behind it. Jeff Trammell serves as the head writer, crafting the show’s engaging and heartfelt storylines, while Mel Zwyer takes the reins as supervising director, ensuring every scene is packed with action and emotion. On the production side, Marvel heavyweights Brad Winderbaum, Kevin Feige, Louis D’Esposito, Dana Vasquez-Eberhardt, and Jeff Trammell bring their expertise as executive producers. With a lineup like this, you can expect top-notch storytelling and stunning visuals!

Why This Show is a Must-Watch

Spider-Man has always been a beloved superhero, but this series promises to stand out from the rest. By honouring the character’s early comic book roots, “Your Friendly Neighbourhood Spider-Man” delivers a unique mix of nostalgia and fresh storytelling. It’s perfect for fans of all ages—whether you’re discovering Spider-Man for the first time or have been following his adventures for years.

And with its vibrant animation style, engaging characters, and action-packed episodes, this series is set to be a hit for kids and families alike. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to introduce young viewers to the Marvel Universe and the iconic hero who’s been swinging through New York City for over 60 years.

What to Look Forward To

While the details about specific villains and story arcs are under wraps, fans can expect plenty of classic Spider-Man moments—from high-flying acrobatics to clever quips and heartfelt life lessons. The series will also explore Peter’s relationships with his friends and mentors, offering a deeper look at what makes him such a relatable and inspiring hero.

How to Watch

The countdown to January 29, 2025, has begun! If you don’t already have a Disney+ subscription, now’s the time to sign up so you don’t miss this highly anticipated series. Grab your popcorn, gather your family, and get ready to swing into action with “Your Friendly Neighbourhood Spider-Man.”

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

Start 2025 with Adventure: WIN Tickets to Paddington in Peru!

What better way to kick off 2025 than with an exciting trip to the Amazon? 🌮 StarCentral Kids, in collaboration with @studiocanalaus, is giving YOU the chance to WIN exclusive movie passes to see PADDINGTON IN PERU! đŸŽ„đŸ»âœš

Official Synopsis  

PADDINGTON IN PERU brings Paddington’s story back to Peru as he returns to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy, who resides at the Home for Retired Bears. With the Brown Family in tow, a thrilling adventure ensues when a mystery plunges them into an unexpected journey through the Amazon rainforest and up to the mountain peaks of Peru.

Release Date: In Cinemas January 1

Duration: 106 minutes

Classification: PG | Censorship Advice: Mild themes

Join Paddington, the Browns, and Aunt Lucy on an unexpected journey through the Amazon and beyond. Don’t miss this heartwarming adventure in cinemas on January 1.

#PaddingtonInPeru

Wicked Takes Flight in Sydney: A Magical Start to the Journey Through Oz

Images supplied by Harriet of Nixco | Photo Credit: Caroline McCredie

The dazzling world of Oz came alive in Sydney as the Australian premiere of Wicked transformed the iconic State Theatre into a spectacle worthy of Munchkinland. The event launched the global Journey Through Oz tour, celebrating the highly anticipated film adaptation of the beloved Broadway musical. With a star-studded cast and breathtaking visuals, this cinematic reimagining promises to cast a spell over audiences worldwide.

A Night of Stars in Sydney

The red carpet at the State Theatre shone as some of Hollywood’s brightest stars graced Sydney with their presence. Leading the cast were Academy Award¼ nominee and multi-talented performer Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Grammy-winning superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda. The pair, joined by co-stars Jonathan Bailey, Jeff Goldblum, Marissa Bode, and Ethan Slater, delighted fans who gathered to catch a glimpse of the glamorous ensemble.

Sydney marked the first stop of the Journey Through Oz, a multi-city premiere tour that will visit Los Angeles, New York, Mexico City, and London. Each city will host a unique celebration of Wicked, showcasing the enchanting world of Oz in fresh and imaginative ways.

Images supplied by Harriet of Nixco | Photo Credit: Caroline McCredie

Join the Journey Online

Can’t make it to a premiere? No worries! Fans can follow the tour online through social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Exclusive content, behind-the-scenes peeks, and interactive experiences are being shared using the hashtag #WickedMovie, allowing everyone to be part of this global celebration.

From Broadway to the Big Screen

Directed by Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights), Wicked makes the leap from stage to screen, bringing the much-loved story to life with a dazzling cinematic twist. Based on Gregory Maguire’s novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West, the movie dives into the untold tale of Elphaba and Glinda—two young women whose unlikely friendship shapes the destiny of Oz.

Cynthia Erivo brings heart and power to Elphaba, a misunderstood young woman who discovers her inner strength in the face of prejudice. Meanwhile, Ariana Grande’s portrayal of Glinda adds layers of charm, wit, and vulnerability to the bubbly blonde. Together, they weave a story of friendship, courage, and self-discovery that’s sure to captivate audiences.

Images supplied by Harriet of Nixco | Photo Credit: Caroline McCredie

A Tale of Magic and Meaning

More than just a fairytale, Wicked delves into themes of friendship, identity, and standing up for what’s right. Through its captivating songs and unforgettable characters, the story reminds us that being different can be a source of strength, even in a world that demands conformity.

Mark Your Calendars!

Wicked landed in Australian cinemas on November 21, 2024, as part one of an epic two-part event. With stunning visuals, a powerful score, and a story that resonates with audiences of all ages, this is a film experience not to be missed.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the magic of Oz, get ready to be spellbound by Wicked!

Disney and Pixar’s Elio: First Trailer and Poster Revealed!

Calling all space fans and adventure seekers! The teaser trailer and poster for Disney and Pixar’s new movie, Elio, have landed, and they’re giving us a glimpse of a cosmic comedy like no other.

What’s Elio All About?

What if the universe found you before you found it? That’s exactly what happens to Elio, an alien-obsessed kid who unexpectedly gets whisked away to the Communiverse—a vibrant, intergalactic hub where intelligent life from all over the galaxy gathers.

There’s just one problem: Elio is mistaken for Earth’s leader! Suddenly, he’s navigating the wildest adventure of his life, building surprising new friendships, solving huge galactic challenges, and chasing his ultimate dream.

Mark Your Calendars!

Elio is set to open in Australian cinemas on June 19, 2025, so get ready for a movie that’s bound to send your imagination soaring to the stars!

Meet the Voices Behind the Characters

This stellar cast includes:

  • Yonas Kibreab as Elio
  • Zoe Saldaña as Aunt Olga
  • Remy Edgerly as Glordon
  • Brad Garrett as Lord Grigon
  • Jameela Jamil as Ambassador Questa
  • Shirley Henderson as OOOOO

Brought to You by Pixar’s Best

Elio is directed by some of Pixar’s most talented filmmakers, including Madeline Sharafian (Burrow), Domee Shi (Turning Red, Bao), and Adrian Molina (Coco). The movie is produced by Mary Alice Drumm, also from Coco.

Watch the Trailer Now!

Want a sneak peek? The teaser trailer is out now, so grab your friends and family and get ready to be wowed. With its hilarious misadventures, dazzling alien worlds, and heartfelt story, Elio is a movie you won’t want to miss.

So, pack your popcorn and prepare for take-off—Elio is coming to a cinema near you soon! 🚀

Disney+ Releases New Trailer for “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew” Adventure!

Get ready for an all-new adventure in the Star Wars universe! Disney+ has just shared a brand-new trailer and poster for Lucasfilm’s “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew,” an exciting live-action series that’s perfect for young Star Wars fans. The series will launch on December 4, only on Disney+!

“Star Wars: Skeleton Crew” stars Jude Law as a mysterious character named Jod. But the big story follows four kids who stumble upon something strange on their safe home planet. Suddenly, they’re pulled into a dangerous galaxy, far from home. Along the way, they’ll make new friends—and some surprising enemies—in a journey filled with mystery and excitement as they try to find their way back.

Along with Jude Law, the series stars Ravi Cabot-Conyers, Ryan Kiera Armstrong, Kyriana Kratter, and more! Episodes are directed by some of the coolest creators, including Jon Watts, Bryce Dallas Howard, and Lee Isaac Chung.

So mark your calendars! The galaxy awaits on December 4, exclusively on Disney+!

Get Ready for More Galactic Fun with “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” Season 2!

The trailer for the second season of Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures is out, and it’s packed with exciting new adventures, characters, and epic Jedi training! This animated series, created by Lucasfilm and streaming on Disney+, is perfect for young Star Wars fans.

Set 200 years before The Phantom Menace, during the High Republic era, Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures follows Jedi younglings Kai Brightstar, Lys Solay, and Nubs as they learn the ways of the Force. Alongside their adventures, they explore the galaxy, help creatures and citizens in need, and develop their skills to become Jedi.

In Season 2, these younglings continue training and take on even bigger missions! With the guidance of Master Zia, they’re joined by her new Padawan, Wes Vinik, and his astromech RO-M1. Along the way, they visit new planets, make friends, and encounter pesky pirates called The Ganguls, who are climbing the ranks of their crew.

“We’re thrilled to invite fans of Kai, Lys, Nubs, and Nash back to the galaxy far, far away with Season 2 of ‘Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures,” says showrunner and executive producer Michael Olson. “This season, our heroes face thrilling challenges, welcome spirited Padawan Wes Vinik and a new class of younglings to Tenoo, and reunite with friends from across the galaxy. Together, they’ll learn important lessons about friendship, compassion, and overcoming fears. This heartfelt and action-packed season will be a thrilling ride, and we can’t wait to share it with you.”

The show is a team effort! Produced by Lucasfilm, it stars Jecobi Swain as Kai Brightstar, Juliet Donenfeld as Lys Solay, Dee Bradley Baker as Nubs, and some other fan favourites, including Master Yoda!

Get ready to dive back into the galaxy far, far away with Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures Season 2 on Disney+. May the Force be with you, young Jedi!

Moana 2: Get Ready for an Epic New Adventure!

Ahoy, young explorers! Guess what? The much-loved Disney character Moana is back for another thrilling journey on the high seas! Walt Disney Animation Studios has just given us a sneak peek of their brand-new movie, “Moana 2”, and it’s going to be even more epic than before! Set to open in Australian cinemas on November 28, 2024, this new film is packed with adventure, new friends, and even a brand-new song called “We’re Back.”

Sneak Peek Features New Song, “We’re Back,” from the Film

In this exciting preview, we get to hear “We’re Back”, an all-new song that is sure to become a favourite for Moana fans everywhere. The song captures the spirit of adventure and friendship that Moana’s story is known for, and it will have everyone singing along as she and her crew set sail for new horizons. Make sure you keep an ear out for it when you watch the movie!

Moana’s Next Big Quest

In Moana 2, our brave hero Moana (voiced by Auli‘i Cravalho) receives a special message from her wayfinding ancestors. They call on her to journey to the far corners of Oceania into long-lost waters that are full of secrets and challenges. And guess what? She’s not going alone! Moana teams up with her old friend Maui (voiced by Dwayne Johnson) and a whole new crew of seafarers. Together, they’ll face incredible obstacles as they try to unlock the mysteries of these uncharted seas.

Meet the New Crew

You’ll be excited to see some familiar faces returning, like Gramma Tala (voiced by Rachel House), Chief Tui (voiced by Temuera Morrison), and Sina (voiced by Nicole Scherzinger). But that’s not all—there are some new and exciting characters joining the adventure too!

Say hello to Moni, Kele, and Loto, voiced by Hualālai Chung, David Fane, and Rose Matafeo. These new seafarers bring a mix of fun, bravery, and heart to Moana’s crew. There’s also a mysterious character named Matangi (voiced by Awhimai Fraser)—you’ll have to watch the movie to find out what secrets she holds! We also get to meet Moana’s ancestor, Tautai Vasa (voiced by Gerald Ramsey), and Moana’s adorable little sister, Simea (voiced by Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda).

New Music and Directors

No Disney movie is complete without amazing music, and Moana 2 is no different! The movie features tunes by some big names, including Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, who are Grammy¼ winners. They’re teaming up with Opetaia Foa‘i, a Grammy nominee, and Mark Mancina, who has won three Grammys. Together, they’ve created songs that will make you want to sing along and dance in your seat!

The film is directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller. It’s produced by Christina Chen and Yvett Merino, and the writing team includes Jared Bush and Dana Ledoux Miller, who are ready to bring Moana’s next adventure to life.

Get Ready for the Big Screen!

So, are you excited to set sail with Moana again? The countdown is on until November 28, 2024, when Moana 2 hits Australian cinemas. Whether you’re a fan of the original movie or you’re new to Moana’s world, this film promises big adventures, new friends, and unforgettable moments. Make sure to mark your calendars and get ready to join Moana and Maui as they take on the biggest voyage yet, all while singing along to “We’re Back” and discovering the wonders of Oceania!

Paddington’s Big Adventure Returns in Peru – Coming to Cinemas January 2025!

Images courtesy of Chris Sioris and Haseena Yaseen of Studio Canal

STUDIOCANAL has shared exciting new pictures from Paddington in Peru, and a fun new adventure is coming to Australian cinemas on 1 January 2025! It will then be shown in theatres all over the world, including the US, on 17 January 2025.

The pictures show Paddington in Peru, the Brown family back at Windsor Gardens, and new characters like Olivia Colman as The Reverend Mother, a happy guitar-playing nun, and Antonio Banderas as Hunter Cabot, a brave riverboat captain who helps the Browns on their journey.

Images courtesy of Chris Sioris and Haseena Yaseen of Studio Canal

Paddington in Peru stars some amazing actors, including Hugh Bonneville, Emily Mortimer, and Julie Walters, as well as Jim Broadbent, Olivia Colman, Antonio Banderas, and Ben Whishaw as the voice of Paddington.

In this new movie, directed by Dougal Wilson, Paddington travels to Peru to visit his Aunt Lucy, who now lives at the Home for Retired Bears. The Brown family joins him, and together they set off on an exciting adventure through the Amazon rainforest and up into the mountains of Peru, solving a thrilling mystery along the way!

The movie is based on Michael Bond’s famous Paddington books and promises to be a fun-filled adventure for all ages. Paddington in Peru will be released in Australia and New Zealand by STUDIOCANAL and in the US and other countries by Sony Pictures. Don’t miss it!

Images courtesy of Chris Sioris and Haseena Yaseen of Studio Canal

Sonic is Back! Get Ready for “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” with a Brand-New Trailer!

Hey, Sonic fans! Exciting news—Paramount Pictures has just dropped the trailer for “Sonic the Hedgehog 3”, and it looks epic! This new movie promises an action-packed showdown between our favourite speedy blue hedgehog, Sonic (voiced by Ben Schwartz), and his brand-new rival, Shadow the Hedgehog, who is voiced by none other than Keanu Reeves! How cool is that?

What’s the New Movie About?

This holiday season, Sonic is zooming back onto the big screen for his most thrilling adventure yet! Sonic teams up with his friends Knuckles and Tails to face a mysterious new villain, Shadow. But Shadow isn’t just any baddie—he has powers that are out of this world! To protect the planet from danger, Team Sonic has to push their abilities to the limit and even make some unlikely friends along the way!

Who’s in the Movie?

There’s a star-studded cast bringing this awesome story to life! Here’s who’s who:

  • Jim Carrey is back with his hilarious antics.
  • Ben Schwartz gives Sonic his voice.
  • James Marsden, Tika Sumpter, Idris Elba, Colleen O’Shaughnessey, and many more amazing actors are joining the fun!
    And guess who’s voicing Shadow? Keanu Reeves! He’s adding his super-cool voice to make Shadow an unforgettable new character!

How Did They Make It?

“Sonic the Hedgehog 3” is made by an incredible team of producers and directors who love the Sonic universe just as much as you do! Directed by Jeff Fowler (who also directed the first two Sonic movies), and produced by Neal H. Moritz, Toby Ascher, Toru Nakahara, and many others, the movie is set to be an epic adventure. The story, written by Pat Casey, Josh Miller, and John Whittington, is based on the much-loved SEGA video game series that has been entertaining fans for years!

What Can You Expect?

You can expect lots of laughs, loads of heart, and tons of action! Sonic and his pals are ready to take you on a wild ride with awesome animation, cool characters, and a storyline that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With Keanu Reeves joining the fun as Shadow, the excitement levels are through the roof!

When Can You Watch It?

Mark your calendars because “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” is racing into cinemas this holiday season! Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with Sonic, Shadow, and all their friends. Don’t miss out on what promises to be the most exciting Sonic movie yet!

So, gather your mates, grab some popcorn, and get ready for the ultimate Sonic showdown! See you at the movies!

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

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