Giving you permission to enjoy the movies!

Cinema Mom reviews Coco

It’s not just a game of finders-keepers. Miles was a talented motorbike racer, who couldn’t catch a break. Until one day, when he’s at his lowest, he finds something bigger that gives him purpose. It’s a battle against scientists who created artificial intelligence with advanced capabilities. Miles finds an experimental robotic military device, resembling a large dog. So advanced, that even the government isn’t sure of what it’s capable of. 
 
(clip – robotic voice) “Introducing A-X-L, the latest in military protection, featuring facial recognition, onboard weapon systems and owner-pairing capabilities.”
 
In the new movie A-X-L, the dog clings to Miles.  The two become inadvertently “paired”, offering Miles the companionship he needs to drive him toward something bigger. They bond, and when A-X-L’s existence is threatened, Miles feels it’s his duty to be a protector. He’s fighting not only against a powerful scientist and a jealous biking competitor, but the government itself.
 
Tender moments of compassion for the life-like robot show the softer side of the socially awkward teenager. Parties and destruction of property by another character throw in some caution for younger viewers. Some violence and the presence of disobedience toward authority figures line the film. Also, brief language and bullying make their face known. In a different spin on the “boy and his dog” story, we see how power, when abused, can change a person. We also see how the right reactions to bullying, and challenging tough situations   , can bring someone closer to where they need to be.
 
I’m Rachel, the Cinema Mom, giving you permission to enjoy the movies!

Cinema Mom reviews A-X-L

June was an incredibly imaginative girl. It was the best way to connect with her mother. Together, they imagined and crafted plans for a fantastical amusement park, where regular rides and thrills had no boundaries! June’s stuffed animals became the guides in this magical world, and her monkey Peanut led the pack. All was well with the world. That is, until June was sent to a summer camp. On her journey, she snuck away and fell into a portal, transporting her to a real-life version of the park she imagined!

 

“My name is Steve. I know who you are. You do? My mom and I invented this park… and somehow, you came to life!”

 

In the new movie Wonder Park, June is thrown into the world she made, just in time to find out that SHE is the only one who can save it. From dealing with heavy feelings of her mother’s sickness, to scenes of childhood withdrawal, you may find yourself having to explain some scenes to younger viewers. Some fast-paced moments of zombified monkey toys also have the ability to scare the sensitive. In this animated film, you’ll see themes of perseverance in the midst of struggle. Imagination is encouraged, along with a love for creating and understanding family dynamics.  Elements of forgiveness and friendship also stand out strong. Overall, a new story with the ability to bring together some really positive family conversations and ideas.

 

I’m Rachel, the Cinema Mom, giving you permission to enjoy the movies!

Cinema Mom reviews Wonder Park

Just when it seems the world has ended and all has turned to dust... there’s still a chance to revive what was. To bring the good back to an apocalyptic-like world. With the help of science, trust, and of course... the Avengers. But is it too risky?

 

“Even if there’s a small chance, we owe this to everyone who’s not in this firm to try. We will.”

 

All 3 hours and 1 minute of this anticipated film on the big screen keep you guessing. Avengers: Endgame finalizes the adventure we’ve followed since the Marvel movies stormed the screens in 2008. In a whirlwind of a storyline, characters reunite and band together to fight against the after effects of the evil Thanos’ genocide... as they join forces to find the stones that gave him his power.

 

While many a watercooler has been filled with conversation about this movie, those at the theatre won’t be surprised by a movie full of violent attempts to save and restore planet earth – both by superheroes and innocent bystanders. Fighting and battle come with the territory, while some foul language from the mouths of frustrated avengers. Quick moving scenes and some dark moments leave us wondering what could possibly go wrong (or right) next. From surprises of familiar faces and connections that will make long-time Marvel fans gasp, the story of good vs. evil plays out. As the saga wraps up an era, these superheroes will prove what they’re made of. Overall, a story of love, friendship, persistence and the choice of how power will be used – for good? Or, for personal gain.

 

I’m Rachel, the Cinema Mom, giving you permission to enjoy the movies!

Cinema Mom reviews Avengers: Endgame

Just like humans, animals have personality. And just like humans, as soon as we are feeling comfortable, one encounter can change the way we approach the world. And sometimes... it surprises us.

 

(clip) “My owner always says you’re such a good dog. And I feel like a good dog. But what if deep down I’m a bad dog? What if I’m a bad dog? Argh! (looks at cats) We start fires! Nom, nom, nom”.

 

Obviously, not all pets are created equal. In a sequel to the 2016 release of the original behind the scenes pet animation, The Secret Life of Pets: 2 brings humor and insight into the struggles and thoughts of the animals we keep in our homes. This film has the pets branching out into more of the outside world. They learn what it’s like to add a child to their families... they embark on a road trip and meet new friends (and foe) both on the farm and at the circus.

 

The Secret life of Pets 2 is overall more funny-feeling than the first, which is quite a feat. Character personalities are stretched to tackle new challenges and expand on their quirkiness. Things to be aware of before going to the theatre include a scene where a familiar feline is admittedly “under the influence” of catnip. Also, a couple brief moments of animal mistreatment by a circus ringleader that aren’t quite so humane; and some moments where wolves pounce and growl in a way that might scare more sensitive children. Overall, an enjoyable story with an equal balance of funny and triumph- and a story of perseverance toward solving issues of confidence and overcoming fear.

 

I’m Rachel, the Cinema Mom, giving you permission to enjoy the movies!

 

Attachments area

Cinema Mom reviews The Secret Life of Pets 2

Sixteen years ago, special agents showed up on the silver screen to battle aliens and make sure the public never knew it happened. Shielded by black sunglasses, suits and ties, they were known as the Men in Black. Fast forward to today, one young girl grew up with a reoccurring memory of what she’d seen, not knowing it was actually a secret government force to protect the earth. That is, until she FOUND them. Molly’s memory had mistakenly NOT been erased.

 

(clip) “recognizable only as déjà vu, and dismissed just as quickly. Time to prove yourself Agent M. We may have a problem in London. Welcome to MIB. Move it or lose it! Ha ha”.

 

MIB. That’s the Men in Black. And in this third movie in the series, perhaps it’s the men AND women in black. Although Molly, now known only as Agent M showed excellent skills to this organization, she was partnered with an agent superhero of sorts. One who’s become quite complacent and often, downright arrogant. Men in Black: International gives us enough of a reminder of the original and sequel to the film, with a new set of characters interacting with aliens on our planet. And, there may be tension within the MIB organization itself

 

With a PG-13 rating, there are a good share of mature words and scenes – especially involving violent shooting, slamming and even, how should I say, moments of oozing. A few references to intimate interactions are the only things seen on the screen, but there’s also an emphasis on certain attractive characters’ traits. In the midst of this alien-human saga, there is evidence of extreme loyalty in friendship and honesty, along with defense of character between friends. If some of the violence can be overlooked, there’s enough saving the world activity that can give hope to good in the midst of a challenging world.

 

I’m Rachel, the Cinema Mom, giving you permission to enjoy the movies.

Cinema Mom reviews Men in Black: International

We once again pick up on the story of Woody and Buzz, as they work to prove loyalty to their “kid”. After Andy has long grown up and went away to college, they now belong to Bonnie, who we met in Toy Story 3. This cowboy and space hero find themselves responsible for a new addition to the team of toys. One that quickly becomes Bonnie’s very favorite toy.

 

(clip) “Everyone- Bonnie made a friend in class! Aww! She’s already making friends. No, no. She literally MADE a new friend. I want you to meet Forky! Hi? Ahh! He’s a SPORK! Yes, I know”.

 

As the final movie in the original animated Pixar toy movie, Toy Story 4 promised tears. It’s true. There are very heartwarming moments of Buzz and Woody’s first appearance on the silver screen – nearly 24 years ago – and the reunion of old friends. But as time has passed, some friends have changed. There’s some catching up to do. Stumbling upon Bo Peep after all these years is not an easy reunion at first.

 

We also meet other new toys in this movie, as Woody embarks on a new mission. They encounter some toys that relentlessly pursue Woody for something they want, and they will fight to get it. As a parent taking your children to this film, you need to know that there are brief moments that might cause some fear in your little ones. That being said, there is plenty of laughter by a comedic, googley-eyed addition. There is also reconciliation and forgiveness. You’ll see plenty of nostalgia and references to Toy Stories of the past. All of the toys in Toy Story 4 seem to be not only on a literal road trip, but a journey to find their purpose – some even, to infinity, and... beyond.

 

I’m Rachel, the Cinema Mom, giving you permission to enjoy the movies!

Cinema Mom reviews Toy Story 4

Jack is a struggling musician from a small town where he can usually “Get by with a little help from his friends”. He is living just “A day in the life” when unexpected circumstances “Come together”. In a world-wide blackout, Jack finds that he is the only one who seems to know some of the most beloved songs from the Beetles. As a matter of fact, the rest of the world seems to have zero knowledge of one of the most famous bands in modern history. As a musician, he begins to share songs that only seem familiar to him.

 

(clip) “Oh I believe in yesterday... When did you write that? I didn’t write that. Paul McCartney of the Beatles. Who?”

 

In the movie Yesterday, Getting the songs out to the world may be a “long and winding road” for Jack. But he cannot “Let it Be”. The songs seem to come to him from “Across the universe” and he feels obligated to share them with the world – even at a detriment to his personal relationships. With multiple references to song titles, band members and locations related to the British invasion, younger viewers may not relate as strongly to the story. The movie does include excess drinking and there are references to adult concepts of relationships and love. On a positive note, we feel the main character’s concern for stealing lyrics and melodies that aren’t really his. And, ultimately, he must make the important decision between world-wide fame or following life’s true calling. Some say “All you need is love” but when it comes to Yesterday, “Tomorrow never knows”.

 

 I’m Rachel, the Cinema Mom, giving you permission to enjoy the movies!

Cinema Mom reviews Yesterday

Some significant things happened in the Marvel world in the latest Avengers: Endgame movie. Without any spoilers, I can say that Spider-Man has found himself in a mode of self-discovery. In the continuing battle between a timid personality and saving the neighborhood once again come into play. As Spider-Man, or Peter Parker, embark on a class trip to Europe, he finds peace with setting his Spidey-duties aside. That is, until he receives a call asking him to take on his biggest challenge yet. 

 

(clip) “Heads up. Nick Fury is calling you. I don’t really want to talk to him. Answer the phone. Why? Because if you don’t talk to him then I’ve gotta talk to him. I don’t wanna talk to him. You sent Nick Fury to voicemail? You do not ghost Nick Fury!”

 

In Spider-Man: Far From Home, Peter Parker is in high demand when it comes to world-saving. As his confidence grows, so does his trust in a new Super-hero character who yields the power of the other Avengers characters. He seems to come out of the blue, and quickly befriends the unlikely hero.

 

In a movie that continues an ongoing series of events, we see the main character develop confidence not only in his powers, but also in love. As he tries his best to capture MJ, the girl he gets the tingles for, we see his struggle to maintain regular human interactions. With its share of violent battles of good vs. evil, this Spider-Man story has its downright scary and intense moments. There are also a few words thrown in just for effect that probably could have been avoided. Fast, flashy scenes line the story, along with element-themed bad guys who relentlessly destroy parts of the earth with a slightly bloody result on the screen. Overall, it’s not a movie for the innocent, with some scenes that would require further conversation with more innocent viewers. And, as a Marvel movie, of course, there’s also important clues following the credits you’ll want to stay for after the movie itself is done.

 

I’m Rachel, the Cinema Mom, giving you permission to enjoy the movies!

Cinema Mom reviews Spider-Man: Far From Home

Simba was born to be king. With the celebration of a new lion cub, we see a familiar story play out on the screen. In the African savanna, life is pretty good. That is, until a vengeful uncle tricks young Simba into a dangerous situation. Without his father by his side, he begins to forget his true calling. And he must embark on a bit of a detour.

 

"Everything you see exists together in a delicate balance. While others search for what they can take... a true king searches for what he can give".

 

Hakuna Matata! What a wonderful phrase! And, a reminder in the new live-action remake of The Lion King, that sometimes the best remedy for pain is to spend some time getting to know yourself better – to experience fresh surroundings and make new friends. After doing so, though, Simba finds it impossible to not go back to save the kingdom, Pride Rock, that his father died to protect.

 

In a sometimes scene-by-scene interpretation of the 1994 cartoon, the Lion King breathes a more realistic view into this story. Full of laughs from Timone, Pumba and other light-hearted characters, the movie also takes a look at the dark side of life in the wild. Some very intense fighting scenes of animals defending their territory and hunting their prey may be a little too dark and realistic for innocent eyes. There are a few moments of child-like potty humor. At the same time, we see how reminders of wisdom from Simba’s father, Mufasa, have the ability to guide him toward making the right decisions. We also experience forgiveness of mistakes gone by. And, ultimately, the reveal of darker characters true intent to hurt instead of heal the characters around him.

 

I'm Rachel, the Cinema Mom, giving you permission to enjoy the movies.

Cinema Mom reviews The Lion King (2019 Live Action)

From a very young age, Bethany showed incredible talent in her sport. She was on track to take on the world. With a passion for surfing beyond her peers, she motivated her peers in her desire to train to be a professional surfer. That is, until the accident. At age 13, Bethany lost her left arm to a shark attack. But why would that stop her?

 

“For her to take down two world champs, the current world champ, and a 6-time champ is pretty rad. Bethany showing people what she’s capable of, sends a message. She just makes everybody inspired”.

 

In the new documentary, Unstoppable: Bethany Hamilton, we peek behind the media curtain to learn about a girl, turned woman, on her journey to accomplish her first love. Through some reflective interviews, we also see how Bethany’s return to the waves has challenged her- almost as much as her instant fame. In the meantime, she falls in love, becomes and mother and surpasses all expectations as a surfer in world competitions. We sense her faith, and see her struggle. We also hear from those closest to her, and her competitors, and the impact her perseverance makes on their lives.

 

Aside from the fear of the unknown following her shark attack, this film is careful to not vilify the shark or linger on the gruesome reality of the accident. With some mature conversation on the challenges in life, our own dreams feel more attainable, no matter what lies in our way.

 

I’m Rachel, the Cinema Mom, giving you permission to enjoy the movies.

Cinema Mom reviews Unstoppable: Bethany Hamilton

Hobbs and Shaw are once again battling in a race to save the world. In the midst of another fast and furious film, it’s not only strong men in patriotic service trying to prove themselves better than each other, but it’s an additional super-man whose capabilities are enhanced with cyber-robotic advantages. The problem, though, is that a sometimes-contentious family member is caught in the middle of a life-threatening situation.

 

“Your sister took something from me. A virus that could wipe out half the population.... and I want it back”.

 

In the new movie: Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw, we see violence. Lots of violence. The kind of gruesome fight scenes that seem to repeat themselves over and over, just for effect. When modern forms of fighting don’t work out, ancient methods involving swords and knives and blunt force take over.

 

There is some redemption as we see two characters on the screen who find fault in each other, but are driven by the sole purpose of eliminating a lethal virus together. There are also some family relationships that seem on the mend during the story. And, even our two bickering strong men band together for a mission bigger than themselves. That being said, some sensual interaction, crude comments, and a generous sprinkling of curse words seem to take over the screen way to often to make this a movie recommendation that’s mom approved for the family.

 

I’m Rachel, the Cinema Mom, giving you permission to enjoy the movies!

Cinema Mom reviews Fast and Furious Presents Hobbs and Shaw

In Red’s world, it’s us versus them. There are the Angry Birds... and their enemies, the pigs. The whole game is built on trying to rid one of the other with slingshots, flight and bird bombs. And after Red became a hero in the first Angry Birds movie, it’s hard to believe that another roadblock would get in the way of his reign of perfection. Now that Red’s got some respect, he feels invincible.

 

“Red! We’ve discovered a third island! We need to put aside our differences and work together... to save the world from being destroyed! What we really need is a hero. Actually, that position’s been filled.”

 

In the Angry Birds 2 movie, Red is beaming with confidence. So much so, that he is hesitant to let anyone else have the glory. One day, the pigs propose a truce in the name of battling against a newly discovered threat. A far off island of Eagles appears to take over both the islands of the birds AND the pigs. And eventually, Red gives in to the idea of working alongside his friends and the pigs to save their homes.

 

Angry Birds 2 follows themes of friendship, loyalty and selfishness. It also surprisingly offers lessons of forgiveness and compassion. There are plenty of laughs for the whole family, along with some funny references only the grown-ups will catch on to. Aside from some child-like potty humor, most family members will be able to safely enjoy the story on the big screen.

 

I’m Rachel, the Cinema Mom, giving you permission to enjoy the movies!

Cinema Mom reviews Angry Birds 2

The Crawley family is used to attention. Their family estate, Downton Abbey has survived decades, with proper occasions, wealth and fancy balls, but never this. Never something that's brought so much attention to their family, and to their well-manicured gardens. But to their surprise, news in a letter changed everything.
 
“The king and queen are coming to Downton? What!? I want every surface to gleam and sparkle. A royal luncheon, a parade AND dinner? I’m going to have to sit down”. 

In the new movie version of the popular historical television drama, we find the family and their servants challenged to their biggest task yet.  How does one host the royal family overnight? With preparation, perfect cleanliness, and a plethora of royal guests who want to take over the occasion. 

Lucky for those who watched all 6 seasons of the tv show, there is a lengthy re-cap at the start of the film to re-introduce relationships, drama and back story before the new story plays out. If you had seen the show, you're aware of the type of sometimes unruly and greedy behavior that comes back to the screen, with untraditional relationships, crime and bickering. It's also in the movie. Complete with a suspicious out of town visitor who may not have the best intentions. 

Language is kept mostly clean in this film, but a couple of romantic scenes allow you to guess later outcomes. Downton Abbey continues their story with a few surprises and comedic comments along the way. Not for the whole family, but mostly geared toward those who have followed this family over time. 

I'm Rachel, the Cinema Mom, giving you permission to enjoy the movies.

Cinema Mom reviews Downton Abbey The Movie

Cinema Mom reviews Ad Astra

I'm Rachel (Ryder) Buchanan, a movie-loving mother of two little boys. I'm passionate about the power of storytelling through film and finding connections between faith and what's on the big screen. I've worked in radio since 1999, and added the role of movie viewer and reviewer as the Cinema Mom in December 2016. 

I'm the Cinema Mom, giving you permission to enjoy the movies!

If you'd like to add Cinema Mom to your radio station line-up, contact me at cinemamomreviews@gmail.com

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