The cast includes Rebecca Hall, Bran Henry, Kaylee Hottle and Fala Chen who all make the story more endearing but nonetheless most exciting. The Titan team up against new monsters is something that will make moviegoers want to watch it again and again. I like that the director makes use of the colors pink and blue. Godzilla unleashes a lethal dose of pink energy as his ultimate weapon while the antagonist monsters are bathed in blue.

At the heart of the movie though is a good story that allows for believable acting, good cinematography and credible direction. Wingard is an effective storyteller and successfully brings to the screen the awesomeness of the titans as well as unabashed absurdity. Watching the movie on Imax most definitely elevates the experience. The close ups of these larger than life creatures is something to behold!

I also like that there are two concurrent stories. A deaf child in search of her roots and Kong who is in search of his own kind. These two missions conclude in an ending that brings both to new (or renewed) beginnings.

Loaded with big lizard and big monkey wrestling moves, new scary monsters, and epic battle sequences, Godzilla vs Kong  A New Empire is not to be missed! See it now in theaters near you!

With a pocketful of glitter,

The post Godzilla vs Kong – A New Empire Offers Chills and Thrills appeared first on The Busy Queen P.

We will know in the coming days as it opens on Valentines Day. Fittingly so, as the movie delves into different kinds of love. Cruel (A father experimenting on his own son for scientific advancement), distorted (A god caring for his mother-child creation), innocent (a being caring for her creator in return), deceitful, passionate, physical and so on. You will, for sure, be won over by the acting of Emma Stone. How her character yearns for freedom, goodness, and individuality but is forced to deal with realities in her own terms is something we can all learn from.

Set in Victorian Glasgow, Willem Dafoe (Dr. Baxter) brings back to life a suicide victim (eventually Bella) in a most bizarre way. She quickly learns the ways of the world and goes on an exploration of self, humanity, and the world. Along the way she (the creature) exhibits a more profound understanding of life than the supposed educated (including street educated) beings she is surrounded by.

As a parent, I have to say that this must be watched strictly by responsible adults. The screen adaptation is exceptional but the editing needs improvement. The shock value of intimate scenes is delivered once too many and waters it down. Messages are crystal clear and apt for the times so long-drawn sexual exploits were unnecessary. If you appreciate dark humor then you will relish every salacious moment of the movie.

The other thing that caught my eye all throughout the movie was Stone’s spunky modern Victorian wardrobe. Outfit after outfit was soooo on point! I would love to have 3 numbers, at least, in my own closet. Costume Design? Tens across the board! (udpate: Poort Things just won Best costume Design at the BAFTAS!)

Catch Poor things in theatres now!

A pocketful of glitter,

The post Poor Things Incites a Closer Look at Society appeared first on The Busy Queen P.

From Paul King , writer/director of “Paddington” and  Luke Kelly , the producer of  “Matilda the Musical“, comes an intoxicating mix of magic, music and mayhem all told with a big heart. Based on the iconic character created by Roald Dahl in his children’s storybook  Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, this prequel puts on screen the wondrous narrative of how a chocolate maker manages to bring joy and positivity to everyone he meets AND how his chocolates changes them for the good, one delectable bite at a time.

Chalamet’s performance is filled wit innocence, purity, and youth. His opening song on board a boat bodes of good things to come (and they do!) but he is confronted by a myriad of problems the minute he reaches land. From a greedy city, corrupt policemen, a trio of scheming chocolate company owners to scrupulous innkeepers, and their cohorts –Wonka faces them all without losing sight of his dreams. And always, always, holding on to his mother’s promise that she will be with him whenever he is able to share the joy of sharing the best chocolates to the people.

Stellar performances are also given by the supporting cast. Hugh Grant is hysterical as the orange man and his lackadaisical humor is addictive. Viewers are left wanting for more oompa loompa action every time “Shorty” goes on screen. Olivia Colman (as the conniving innkeeper) and Tom Davis (her henchman) are hateful as the dastardly duo who has made a living from taking advantage of the needy. Perfect villains indeed! The chief of police, played by Keegan Michael Key,  provides laughs here and there as his fondness for chocolate becomes larger and larger. The same goes for Rowan Atkinson as the wayward priest. Along with 500 singing and chocolate loving monks, the misadventures soon become sticky and aplenty.

The magic chocolates also deliver their fair share of awesome. Imagine being able to fly, grow multicolored hair, and remember old flames –with just a bite can make you do all those!

Wonka is a highly enjoyable movie that the whole family will relish! In the end, it’s essentially a movie about HOPE and its power to change the world.

Catch it on cinemas December 6!

With a pocketful of glitter,

The post Wonka – Of Dreams, Love, & Chocolate appeared first on The Busy Queen P.

Starring some of the biggest names in Korean entertainment, including Ryu Seungryong, Han Hyojoo, and Zo Insung. Moving tells the story of a group of South Korean spies who has made it their mission to protect their kids with super human powers. Initially recruited because of their extraordinary abilitites including flight, instant healing and enhances senses, they pass on their abilities to the kids unwittingly.  The spies disappear after being tasked with dubious missions. On the loose, is a dangerous assassin who wants to annihilate the kids.

Fans of Moving and other unmissable Korean stories can now also enjoy the first three episodes of The Worst Evil exclusively on Disney+. This is a fast-paced crime thriller that follows the adventures of police officer Park Junmo as he infiltrates a dangerous new gang. Headed by Jung Gicheul, a shrewd, charismatic leader, the gang has taken control of the city’s drug trade selling the super lethal “Gangnam Crystal.”

Catch these exciting shows on Disney+ NOW!

With a pocketful of glitter,

The post Most Viewed Korean Super Drama “Moving” now Showing on Disney+ appeared first on The Busy Queen P.

Set in a haunted palazzo in old Venice, the story begins with a Halloween Party where orphans are dressed up to celebrate the day of the dead. Earlier that same day, retired detective Hercule Poirot (Kenneth Branagh) is invited to a seance by his mystery writer friend Ariadne Oliver (Tina Fey). He is skeptical (of course!) but agrees to go anyway to expose the renowned mystic Joyce Reynolds (Michelle Yeoh) for the farce he is most certain she is. The order of the night — Reynolds will call on the spirit of the departed daughter of the palazzo’s owner. However, all hell breaks loose when the possessed Reynolds starts identifying the murderer . A second death soon follows after…. and a third.

Moviegoers are kept at the edge of their seats as the story unravels and each character is questioned by Poirot. A raging storm keeps them all trapped in the mansion as the detective vows to name the killer before sunrise. The story builds up until the final reveal is made —Whodunnit?

This movie has all the elements of a good mystery. Gather characters that all have motives, add haunting scenarios (even the palazzo feels like a character), and have twists and turns that will confuse the spectators. Kenneth Branagh, as actor and director, succeeds in coming up with a film that does justice to Christie’s masterpieces. With powerful performances by its cast which includes Kyle Allen, Jamie Dornan, Jude Hill, Ali Khan, Emma Laird and more, this is a must-watch movie that will bring chills and thrills to the entire family.

Looking forward to more Agatha Christie adaptation in the future. Bravo!

With a pocketful of glitter,

The post A Haunting In Venice – A Mystery Filled with Thrills and Chills appeared first on The Busy Queen P.

The story progresses and the audience is introduced to a new villain called Namor (child without love played convincingly by Tenoch Huerta Mejia) who is also the king of the seas. His supermutant powers rival the best of the Marvel heroes and soon Wakanda finds itself in a serious bind. Thinking that vibranium can only be found within the kingdom of Wakanda, a new invention by a black American college student proves otherwise. A war is imminent unless Namor’s war plans against the land dwellers are thwarted.

Together with allies old and new – War Dog Nakia (Lupita Nyong’o) and Everett Ross (Martin Freeman) –will the Wakandans be able to fight for the survival of their people?

The script is laudable as it honors the memory of the late great Chad Boseman — the only true Black Panther in my book. The actions scenes are made more outstanding by fantastic CGI. And the villain is someone that someone that brings a frenzied excitement to the story.

Essentially, Black Panther 2 is a story about love: sibling love, mother’s love, love of country and after much strife, hope.

Directed by Ryan Coogler and  produced by Kevin Feige and Nate Moore. Catch the movie now in cinemas near you!

#WakandaForeverPH

With a pocketful of glitter,

The post Black Panther : Wakanda Forever Pays Tribute to Chadwick Boseman appeared first on The Busy Queen P.

Perfect for a date night, this Netflix movie has something for every kind of viewer. Juvenile issues such as bullying, strained parent-child relationships, the effects of a death in the family are discussed as much as adult themes. One thing that struck me most was  a line by Ruffalo’s character where he quotes the Romans– “Enjoy life. It’s later than you think.”   And another by Garner, “I collect odd ducks” as she refers to the not so obvious similarities between her husband and son. One can’t help but notice, too, that this film has gathered Deadpool, Gamora, The Hulk, and Elektra (The non archtypal superheroes the four actors have played in the past).

At first, I was not exactly sure where the story was headed. The build up could be a little faster. As soon as the mission(s) were clearly established, however, I found myself more engaged. The audience will enjoy the quick quips, playful banter of Reynold with his younger self, and the humanity that each of the characters possess. Even the main villain (Catherine Keener as Maya Sorian) was good at one point. There’s the CGI thrown in here and there, of course. Essentially, however, this is a story about relationships and realizations. Love is not defined by time. Almost everything gets better with time. Sadly, though, we don’t have much time as we think we do. So we have to do the right thing, come to terms with the lessons of the past and hope to “find” good things in the future. Most of all, we should try to “enjoy life because it’s later than we think.”

Here’s hoping you enjoy The Adam Project as much as my whole family did!

With a pocketful of glitter,

The post Netflix Movie “The Adam Project” Serves Sci-Fi, Comedy and Drama All At Once appeared first on The Busy Queen P.

Disney and Pixar’s latest animation coup “ONWARD” brings the magical and temporal elements to the fore. Imagine mythical creatures that have no powers and living ordinary lives. Unicorns are like stray canines foraging for leftovers in garbage cans, pixies have to ride motorcycles because they can’t fly, and centaurs do not gallop but ride cars.

The movie has a stellar roster of voice actors headed by Tom Holland (of Spiderman fame) as Ian Lightfoot, Chris Pratt (Guardians of the Galaxy) as Barley Lightfoot, and Julia Louis-Dreyfuss as their mother Laurel Lightfoot. Also in the cast are Octavia Spencer as the Manticore, Ali Wong as Officer Gore, Grey Griffin as Dewdrop, Tracey Ullman as Grecklin, and Wilmer Valderrama as Gaxton.

The film is directed by American animator Dan Scanlon who shares an affinity with two main characters. Someone who has lost a father very early in life shares the sadness, the longing, and the acceptance of circumstances.

Relationships Matter

In the movie, the Lightfoot siblings go on a quest fraught with perils to complete a spell that will enable them to see their departed father for a day. Their concerned mother follows suit. On the way, they discover things about themselves and each other. Big brother Barley, a loud, rowdy, card game enthusiast encourages his little brother Ian to be brave and bold. Timid Ian is amazed at his new-found abilities. As they move onward, they meet other mythical creatures who also undergo their own transformation.

I love that the movie tackles the dynamics of different kinds of relationships –between siblings, between parents and children, and even that of aux parent and stepchildren. My eight year old had tears rolling down her cheeks at one point in the movie, and I must admit, I was pretty choked-up. Overcoming insecurities, finding one’s inner strength and ultimately realizing the importance of family are also shown. Kudos to Tom Holland and Chris Pratt for their wonderful voice performances!

“Onward” is the perfect movie for families. Adults and kids alike will enjoy the funny scenes and shed a tear or two when the quest comes to fruition.

Catch ONWARD on March 4 in theatres!

With a pocketful of glitter,

The post Of Family Ties and Moving Onward appeared first on The Busy Queen P.

So the CAT(S) is out of the bag and it’s purring for everyone’s kindness. I’ll start with the good points. The choreography is exceptional and the dancers equally so. It is very apparent that a lot of time was spent perfecting the dance routines. The music is timeless. Strong performances are given by Ian Mckellen (Gus), Taylor Swift (Bombularina), and Jennifer Hudson (Grizella) — if only you can get past the nose drips! Audiences will cheer for Laurie Davidson ( Mr. Mistoffelees) and will laugh at the incomparably hilarious James Corden (Bustopher Jones).

The story is set in London where we find the Jellicle cats preparing for the annual Jellicle Ball. During that fateful night, one lucky cat will be chosen to be reborn. But first, candidates must perform for the head of the feline community Old Deuteronomy played by Dame Judi Dench. The main villain Idris Alba (Macavity) wants to be chosen and tries his devilish best to get rid of the competition.
I first saw the musical in broadway some years ago and was completely enthralled by it. The story is not for a passive watcher as there are many characters and many subplots. The movie version definitely helped me understand the story (and the lyrics)  much better and helped me appreciate the characters as played by known celebrities.
That said, the problem lies mainly in the underwhelming and troubling computer-generated imagery (CGI). Actors were transformed to disproportionate creatures with skin-tight fur. Some characters would have clothes initially, and then in the next scene would look like they are naked when they are shown without their coats. Idris Alba and Rebel Wilson were so hard to look at. The former looked like a muscular brown rat and the latter just looked simply inappropriate while wagging her tail in between her legs. IF you can get past this major, glaring flaw because it is there to for all to see the entire length of the movie, then you can appreciate the redeeming qualities of CATS. There are some long drawn dance sequences, too. So the editing could also have been improved. (There are scenes showing Judi Dench with her bare hands and rings on her fingers.)
The movie imparts lessons of empathy, courage, kindness, and most important — hope. Do give the movie a chance. CATSch it in theatres today!
With a pocketful of glitter,

I

The post A Different Take on CATS appeared first on The Busy Queen P.

The movie starts with the handsome Prince Phillip (Harris Dickinson) asking for Aurora’s hand. Her godmother is not happy which is exactly how the prince’s mother feels. The real and unexpected villainess turns out to be bedecked in the most precious jewels, the most pristine pearls, and the most jaw-dropping gowns. Michelle Pfeiffer as Queen Ingris is the epitome of glamorous evil and plays her role magnificently. Pretending to give her blessing to the young couple while plotting against her soon to be daughter-in-law’s kingdom, the Queen runs an underground dungeon weapon factory. She successfully causes a rift between the princess and her winged parent figure.

Meanwhile, Maleficent gets wounded and is saved by another (Chiwetel Ejiofor) like her. She discovers creatures like her in a world hidden from people. The stage is set for war between the magical and the humans. Will Maleficent heed the cry of her clan to defeat their perceived oppressors? What will Prince Phillip do once he uncovers his mother’s evil plan? Will Aurora and Maleficent reunite? These and more questions will be answered as the story unfolds.
The Busy Queen P Recommends MALEFICENT Mistress of Evil 
This is definitely not your run-of-the-mill sequel. My daughter and I were pleasantly surprised and most captivated. From the intricate sets to the fantastic CGI and the fabulous costumes (Maleficent changes her outfits, too!), there is so much to look forward to. The story is well executed on film and the subplots all come together in one glorious ending.

Do watch it with the entire family! It’s a perfect 10 oniewisneyEvil, Disney Disney my scorecard!
With a pocketful of glitter,

The post Maleficent Mistress of Evil – When Bad is Really Good appeared first on The Busy Queen P.