20+ of the Best Quotes from Diary of a Wimpy Kid on Disney+

Diary of a Wimpy Kid - Image from Disney+

Diary of a Wimpy Kid has been a beloved book series for kids for years and already has several movie adaptations to note.  Disney+ has put a new spin on the old favorite, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, with a shorter, animated look at the first book in the series.  The movie is a great way to introduce younger viewers to the series and get them interested in exploring the books.  Below are more than 20 of the best quotes from Diary of a Wimpy Kid, now streaming on Disney+!

20+ of the Best Quotes from Diary of a Wimpy Kid

"First of all, this is a journal - not a diary." - Greg

"The only reason I agreed to write in this is because one day I'm going to be rich and famous and people will want to read about my early years so I'm doing this for them." - Greg

"Right now I'm stuck in middle school with this bunch of morons." - Greg

"Wanna see my secret freckle?" - Fregley

"You were playing a sport - like with your feet and hands?" - Dad

"That's all you need to get by in this world - one good friend." - Mrs. Heffley

"And finally, don't get the cheese touch!" - Roderick

"Middle school is every man for himself.  You don't need some overgrown baby weighing you down." - Roderick

"Joshie says follow your dreams and respect your parents." - Rowley

"Middle school is no joke.  There are bullies, permanent seats, bathrooms with no doors, and the. . .the. . .CHEESE!" - Greg

Diary of a Wimpy Kid - Image from Disney+

"You know, maybe this isn't such a good idea.  Maybe my mom can homeschool me." - Rowley

"But it turns out having an older brother that went to the same school isn't such a good thing after all." - Greg

"Hang out Rowley!  You say hang out in middle school - not play." - Greg

"Seriously?  You can never have too much candy." - Greg

"Mom grounded me from playing video games for a week - her go to punishment." - Greg

"Punishing you doesn't make me feel better.  I want to raise a good kid, Greg." - Mrs. Heffley

"Yup, I'm pretty sure I'm going to be in therapy after this." - Greg

"How about a tickle fight???" - Fregley

"Mom never lets me have chocolate because it makes me hyperactive and unstable." - Fregley

"Dear Gregory, I'm sorry I ate your candy and chased you with a booger." - Fregley

"Where'd you learn to fight?  Ballerina school?" - Kid on Playground

About Diary of a Wimpy Kid (From Disney+)

The first book in Jeff Kinney’s worldwide bestselling series comes to Disney+ in the all-new animated adventure “Diary of a Wimpy Kid.” Greg Heffley is a scrawny but ambitious kid with an active imagination and big plans to be rich and famous – he just has to survive middle school first. To make matters worse, Greg’s lovable best friend Rowley seems to coast through life and succeed at everything without even trying! As details of his hilarious – and often disastrous – attempts to fit in fill the pages of his journal, Greg learns to appreciate true friends and the satisfaction that comes from standing up for what is right. Directed by Swinton Scott (“Futurama”) and written and produced by Jeff Kinney, “Diary of a Wimpy Kid” features the voices of Brady Noon (“The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers”) as Greg Heffley, Ethan William Childress (“mixed-ish”) as Rowley Jefferson, and Chris Diamantopoulos (“Silicon Valley”) as Frank Heffley.

“Diary of a Wimpy Kid” will stream exclusively on Disney+ December 3, 2021.

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Back to the Outback - Netflix Family Movie Review

Back to the Outback - Image from Netflix

Netflix has been bringing some high quality animated family movies this year (notably Vivo, Wish Dragon, and The Mitchells vs. the Machines) and once again they deliver a solid choice with the release of Back to the Outback this December.  In this latest film, directors Clare Knight and Harry Cripps combine a talented voice cast with some pretty awesome Aussie animals and add a memorable adventure to create a story family audiences will love. 

Check out my interview with the directors of Back to the Outback here!

Back to the Outback Movie Review

In Back to the Outback, we meet several Aussie animals on display at a zoo.  While Pretty Boy (Tim Minchin), the adorable social media star of the wildlife park is busy capturing the hearts of fans around the world, Chaz (Eric Bana) showcases some creepy, crawly creatures daily in shows where they terrify audiences.  But Maddie (Isla Fisher), Nigel (Angus Imrie), Frank (Guy Pearce), and Zoe (Miranda Tapsell) are not ferocious beasts at all - they are kind-hearted, misunderstood animals who just want to find their way home.  Following a tragic event at the zoo, Maddie and her friends decide the time has come to escape and head back home to the Outback.  Along the way, they encounter new friends and perils beyond their wildest dreams.

Back to the Outback - Image from Netflix

Like most movies made for kids, Back to the Outback has positive messaging that is full of meaning for young audiences.  One of the biggest takeaways surrounds the idea that there is so much more to someone than what you see on the surface.  Maddie, for example, is a Taipan snake - a deadly predator - but with a heart of gold who would do anything for her friends.  Then there is Pretty Boy, a cuddly koala with an Instagram following similar to a Kardashian, who isn't as warm and kind as his looks may make one think.  This message continues during the movie as the members of the Ugly Secret Society prove that the only thing "ugly" about them is the way the way others treat them.  There's also a message of redemption as characters who begin the movie as "bad guys" grow and develop throughout the film - going through their own personal journey parallel to the main story.

20+ of the BEST quotes from Back to the Outback

Kids will delight with the cute animals and funny moments while parents can feel good watching with their kids.  There's no language to be concerned with and any "violence" is so mild and cartoonish that you can't even classify it that way.  There are some scenes where the zoo animals aren't treated in the kindest way which may cause some concern - animals being restrained, tossed, etc.  

Back to the Outback will be available to stream on Netflix beginning December 10, 2021!

About Back to the Outback (From Netflix) 

Tired of being locked in a reptile house where humans gawk at them like they’re monsters, a ragtag group of Australia’s deadliest creatures plot a daring escape from their zoo to the Outback, a place where they’ll fit in without being judged for their scales and fangs. Leading the group is Maddie (Isla Fisher), a poisonous snake with a heart of gold, who bands together with a self-assured Thorny Devil lizard Zoe (Miranda Tapsell), a lovelorn hairy spider Frank (Guy Pearce), and a sensitive scorpion Nigel (Angus Imrie). But when their nemesis — Pretty Boy (Tim Minchin), a cute but obnoxious koala — unexpectedly joins their escape, Maddie and the gang have no choice but to take him with them. So begins a hair-raising and hilarious road trip across Australia, as they are pursued by a zookeeper Chaz (Eric Bana) and his adventure-seeking mini-me (Diesel La Torraca). Directed by Clare Knight and Harry Cripps, and also featuring the voices of Rachel House, Keith Urban, Celeste Barber, Wayne Knight, Lachlan Ross Power, and Jacki Weaver, BACK TO THE OUTBACK is an animated adventure that proves just because something’s different, doesn’t mean it isn’t beautiful.

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20+ of the Best Quotes from Back to the Outback

Back to the Outback - Image from Netflix

Back to the Outback tells the story of some pretty amazing creatures who make a daring escape from captivity to return back to the wild and find the families and home they've been missing.  Full of laughs and adventure, Back to the Outback is a fun family film to enjoy from the comfort of your couch on Netflix.  Take a look at the best quotes from Back to the Outback below!

Check out my full review of Back to the Outback here

Best Quotes from Back to the Outback

"I wanna go see the ugly animals." - Dolores

"You call that a smile?  Where are those fabulous fangs?" - Chaz

"But I'm not a monster, am I?" - Maddie

"You can be whoever you want so who cares what a bunch of silly humans think?" - Jackie

"Chapter 4: How I Fought a Giant Python and Lost Your Mother." - Chaz

"No, no - I can't leave my glass box.  The glass box is me." - Nigel

"I can't die yet; I'm not even 27." - Pretty Boy

"What do we do with Satan's teddy bear?" - Zoe

"In a world of cuddly koalas we are regarded as ugly monsters." - Jacinta

"Actually those warts are a really lovely and rare shade of topaz." - Doug

"I would literally rather gnaw off my own paw." - Pretty Boy

"I haven't seen my therapist in two days!" - Pretty Boy

Back to the Outback - Image from Netflix

"Oh, he's so much nicer as a couch than as a koala." - Zoe

"Like a tiny cloud filled with hate." - Nigel

"Oh, so just 'cause I look perfect, my whole life is perfect?  Is that what you think?" - Pretty Boy

"I've always hated your preference for beige." - Nigel

"I'm ugly.  You're ugly.  We should all be this ugly.  Ugly is the new beautiful." - USS Call for Help

"Ow!  My bloomin' onions!" - Dave

"I'm a Capricorn.  I hate everybody." - Pretty Boy

"I don't know dad, maybe we should just go home and play some video games." - Chazzy

"How does the Unique and Special Society sound?" - Pretty Boy

"She's always been beautiful - you just never noticed before." - Nigel

Check out my interview with Back to the Outback directors here!

About Back to the Outback (From Netflix)

Tired of being locked in a reptile house where humans gawk at them like they’re monsters, a ragtag group of Australia’s deadliest creatures plot a daring escape from their zoo to the Outback, a place where they’ll fit in without being judged for their scales and fangs. Leading the group is Maddie (Isla Fisher), a poisonous snake with a heart of gold, who bands together with a self-assured Thorny Devil lizard Zoe (Miranda Tapsell), a lovelorn hairy spider Frank (Guy Pearce), and a sensitive scorpion Nigel (Angus Imrie). But when their nemesis — Pretty Boy (Tim Minchin), a cute but obnoxious koala — unexpectedly joins their escape, Maddie and the gang have no choice but to take him with them. So begins a hair-raising and hilarious road trip across Australia, as they are pursued by a zookeeper Chaz (Eric Bana) and his adventure-seeking mini-me (Diesel La Torraca). Directed by Clare Knight and Harry Cripps, and also featuring the voices of Rachel House, Keith Urban, Celeste Barber, Wayne Knight, Lachlan Ross Power, and Jacki Weaver, BACK TO THE OUTBACK is an animated adventure that proves just because something’s different, doesn’t mean it isn’t beautiful.

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Sing 2 Movie Review - Is it Better Than the Original??

Sing 2 - Image from Universal Pictures

My family and I took advantage of the early opportunity to see Sing 2 when it released Thanksgiving weekend for a special preview screening at our local theater ahead of the slated Christmas release date.  While my kids and I are always up for an animated movie, I think my husband was the most excited about Sing 2.  The original is one of his all-time favorite animated films - featuring an awesome soundtrack and storyline that appeals to both grown-ups and kids alike.  Going into the movie, one question loomed large above all others - would Sing 2 be better than the original?  

Sing 2 Movie Review 

Sing 2 - Image from Universal Pictures

Sing 2 brings back the all-star cast from the first film - Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Scarlett Johansson, and more - while adding such names as Bono, Halsey, and Pharrell Williams.  The movie begins with Buster Moon and all of our familiar favorites headlining an adaptation of Alice in Wonderland at the Moon Theater to the delight of local crowds.  But we all know Buster Moon is a koala that "dreams big dreams" so it should be no surprise that he has his sights set on taking his show on the road to the bright lights of Redshore City (very clearly modeled after Las Vegas).  When his audition for entertainment tycoon Jimmy Crystal doesn't go as well as he planned, he finds himself relying on an idea for an all-new stage show dreamed up by Gunter and being able to deliver on a promise of having retired star Clay Calloway appear in the show.  Only two small problems - they don't have the show by Gunter written and Clay Calloway has been hiding from the public for 15 years.  

The story feels familiar to the first - Buster Moon once again finds himself over promising and then scrambling to find a a way to deliver.  Along the way, each of the supporting characters also goes through their own personal journey that challenges them to step outside their comfort zone and do more than they thought possible.  While the story is predictable, it's still entertaining and the 1 hour 52 minute run time passes quickly.  I also enjoyed how Miss Crawly gets more story in this one - she definitely deserves it.  Personally though, I found the storyline of Rosita most relatable and believe other moms out there will too.  I also would have loved to see more of Clay Calloway's story.  I think there was a missed opportunity to utilize the talents of Bono and also paint a deeper picture of the story behind the lion.

Sing 2 - Image from Universal Pictures

Perhaps what sets the original Sing apart from so many other films is it's iconic soundtrack - an enjoyable mix of some old favorites and newer releases.  Sing 2 follows a similar familiar mixing both old and new tracks throughout the film, but I felt like the music in the first film was far better than the sequel.  The best musical moment in the film is actually in the trailer - "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For."  

So is Sing 2 better than the original?  My husband and I put the first Sing ahead of this one, but both of my kids prefer the sequel.  I think it's a split decision because at the end of the day the two films are very similar - well-developed storylines that branch in several different directions, rock solid cast, and a feel-good soundtrack.  If you enjoyed the first, I think you'll also find Sing 2 to be a hit with your family.  It's sure to draw the family crowds this holiday season!

About Sing 2 (From Illumination / Universal Pictures)

This holiday season, the new chapter in Illumination’s smash animated franchise arrives with big dreams and spectacular hit songs as the ever-optimistic Buster Moon and his all-star cast of performers prepare to launch their most dazzling stage extravaganza yet …all in the glittering entertainment capital of the world. There’s just one hitch: They first have to persuade the world’s most reclusive rock star—played by global music icon Bono, in his animated film debut—to join them.

 

Buster (Oscar® winner Matthew McConaughey) has turned the New Moon Theater into a local hit, but Buster has his eyes on a bigger prize: Debuting a new show at the Crystal Tower Theater in glamorous Redshore City.

 

But with no connections, Buster and his cast—including harried mother Rosita (Oscar® winner Reese Witherspoon), rocker Ash (Scarlett Johansson), earnest Johnny (Taron Egerton), shy Meena (Tori Kelly) and, of course, provocateur Gunter (Nick Kroll)—have to sneak their way into the world-famous Crystal Entertainment offices, run by ruthless mogul Jimmy Crystal (Emmy winner Bobby Cannavale).

 

In a desperate attempt to get Mr. Crystal’s attention, Gunter spontaneously pitches an outrageous idea that Buster quickly runs with, promising that their new show will star rock legend Clay Calloway (Bono). Problem is, Buster has never met Clay, an artist who shut himself away from the world more than a decade ago after the loss of his wife. Even worse, Buster has failed to realize that Mr. Crystal is an egocentric gangster who would rather drop somebody off the roof of a building than be lied to.

 

As Gunter helps Buster dream up an out-of-this-world theatrical masterpiece, and the pressure (and sinister threats) from Mr. Crystal mount, Rosita’s leading role in the show gets ripped away and handed to Mr. Crystal’s spoiled daughter, Porsha, played by Grammy-nominated artist Halsey. Desperate to save the show, and his life, Buster embarks on a quest to find Clay and persuade him to return to the stage. 

 

What begins as a dream of big-time success becomes an emotional reminder of the power of music to heal even the most broken heart.

 

Sing 2 is written and directed by acclaimed returning filmmaker Garth Jennings and features additional new characters played by music superstar Pharrell Williams, Black Panther’s Letitia Wright and comedians Eric André and Chelsea Peretti. The film is produced by Illumination founder and CEO Chris Meledandri and by Janet Healy. Sing 2 combines dozens of hit songs from pop to rock, K-pop to Latin, and from artists including Billie Eilish, Drake, U2, The Weeknd, Prince, Taylor Swift, BTS, Cardi B, Bad Bunny, J Balvin, Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello. With electrifying performances, breathtaking artistry and Illumination’s signature humor and heart, Sing 2 is sure to be the definitive feel-good cinematic event of the year.

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DC League of Super-Pets - Trailer Reaction

DC League of Super-Pets - Image from Warner Bros.

The latest superhero adventure for kids just dropped a new trailer this past week as audiences prepare for the release of DC League of Super-Pets in May 2022.  Promising high-flying paw-tastic adventures, Superman's own dog is on a quest to save some familar heroes along with a new crew of pups. Take a look at the trailer with Caleb and I here below:

This looks like a great animated film that young superhero fans will enjoy!  I feel like anything with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson is a hit in our house and I was delighted to hear him starring as the voice of Krypto the Super-Dog.  Those scenes of Superman sleeping and his dog trying to wake him up are all too relatable.  And the joke about the bidet as a water fountain had me rolling. . .even if my little guy didn't get that one.  What do you think?  Are you and your little ones looking forward to this release from Warner Bros in 2022?

About DC League of Super-Pets (From Warner Bros)

DC League of Super-Pets - Image from Warner Bros.

Dwayne Johnson stars as the voice of Krypto the Super-Dog in Warner Bros. Pictures’ animated action adventure feature film “DC League of Super-Pets,” from director Jared Stern.

The film also stars the voices of Kevin Hart (the “Jumanji” and “Secret Life of Pets” films), Kate McKinnon (“Saturday Night Live,” the “Magic School Bus Rides Again” films, “Ferdinand”), John Krasinski (the “Quiet Place” films, “Free Guy”), Vanessa Bayer (“Saturday Night Live,” “Office Christmas Party,” “Trainwreck”), Natasha Lyonne (“Show Dogs,” “Ballmastrz 9009”), Diego Luna (“Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” “Maya and the Three”), Marc Maron (“Joker,” “GLOW”), Thomas Middleditch (“Godzilla: King of the Monsters,” “Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie”), Ben Schwartz (“Sonic the Hedgehog,” “Duck Tales”), and Keanu Reeves (the “Matrix” and “John Wick” films).

 

In “DC League of Super-Pets,” Krypto the Super-Dog and Superman are inseparable best friends, sharing the same superpowers and fighting crime in Metropolis side by side. When Superman and the rest of the Justice League are kidnapped, Krypto must convince a rag-tag shelter pack—Ace the hound, PB the potbellied pig, Merton the turtle and Chip the squirrel—to master their own newfound powers and help him rescue the superheroes.

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8-Bit Christmas - Family Movie Review and FREE Activity Sheets

(L-r) SOPHIA REID-GANTZERT as Annie Doyle and NEIL PATRICK HARRIS as Jake Doyle in New Line Cinema and HBO Max’s family film “8-BIT CHRISTMAS.” (Image from HBO Max)

Take Christmas, a hint of nostalgia, and the always entertaining Neil Patrick Harris - combine together and you get a delightful new holiday classic, 8-Bit Christmas, now streaming on HBO Max.  8-Bit Christmas is an entertaining, if slightly familiar, story about a little boy in a quest for the ultimate Christmas gift.  Sound familiar?  Yeah, it's got a little bit of an A Christmas Story feel to it, but the 80s baby in me finds this retro Christmas flick a walk down memory lane.  But I wasn't the only one who enjoyed it - the kids fell in love too!

Click here to download 8-Bit Christmas Activity Sheets!

8-Bit Christmas Family Movie Review

It's the late 80s and every kid is in a quest for the ultimate Christmas gift - a Nintendo Entertainment System.  That's right, long before the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and X-Box topped Santa's wish lists, it was Paperboy, Super Mario Bros, and Duck Hunt that reigned supreme.  With a similar vibe to A Christmas Story, Jake Doyle is an adult now looking back on that magical holiday season and retelling just how far he went to try and get the 8-bit entertainment system of his dreams.  Parents questioning the value and safety of the gaming system (similar to "you'll shoot your eye out, kid"), a bully, and a teacher seemingly determined to stand in his way, won't deter Jake and his dedicated group of friends.  What he ultimately discovers though?  The most special Christmas gift may not be the one that you spend the whole season searching for.

(L-r) BRIELLE RANKINS as Tammy Hodges, BRAELYN RANKINS as Teddy Hodges, MAX MALAS as Jeff Farmer, CHE TAFARI as Mikey Trotter, WINSLOW FEGLEY as young Jake Doyle and SANTINO BARNARD as Evan Olsen in New Line Cinema and HBO Max’s family film “8-BIT CHRISTMAS.” (Image from HBO Max)

There's a lot to love in this move as it feels both familiar and fresh at the same time.  Neil Patrick Harris is one of my favorites with his witty comedic timing carrying most of the film as he narrates from the present day.  Not to be outdone, Winslow Fegley (young Jake Doyle), Steve Zahn (John Doyle), and June Diane Raphael (Kathy Winslow) all bring the laughs too.  But perhaps my favorite of the Doyle family is young Lizzy Doyle played by Bellaluna Resnick.  She is the quintessential little sister - adorable and annoying all wrapped into one!  

Check out my favorite quotes from 8-Bit Christmas here!

This movie is made for families to enjoy together.  Parents will love the look back at the 80s and kids will connect with the quest for the ultimate gift - something that still holds true to this day.  No concerns with language, violence, or any inappropriate scenes, but your kids may get a few ideas of how to pull some fast ones over on you here!  Tune into HBO Max this holiday season and make 8-Bit Christmas a new tradition in your house!

About 8-Bit Christmas (From HBO Max)

Starring Neil Patrick Harris, Winslow Fegley, June Diane Raphel and Steve Zahn, 8-Bit Christmas is a humorous and heartfelt look back at the adventures of childhood. Set in suburban Chicago in the late 1980s, the story centers on ten-year-old Jake Doyle’s (Fegley) herculean quest to get the latest and greatest video game system for Christmas.

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40+ of the Best Quotes 8-Bit Christmas

(L-r) WINSLOW FEGLEY as young Jake Doyle and STEVE ZAHN as John Doyle in New Line Cinema and HBO Max’s family film “8-BIT CHRISTMAS.” (Image from HBO Max)

8-Bit Christmas, now streaming on HBO Max, brings the magic of Christmas in the 80s to a new generation.  In the 80s, a Nintendo Entertainment System topped many holiday wish lists.  Join Jake Doyle as a young kid in the 80s who is on a quest to get one for Christmas - despite whatever challenges come his way!  8-Bit Christmas is funny and entertaining. . .with a heartfelt message that captures the true meaning of the holidays.  Check out the best quotes from 8-Bit Christmas below.

Best Quotes from 8-Bit Christmas

"You know what I want for Christmas? How about a winning team!  Any Chicago team." - Radio Announcer

"I get more calls on your phone than you do." - Annie Doyle

"When I was a kid I wanted a Nintendo worse than you want a phone." - Jake Doyle

"Is it dangerous because I might die from boredom?" - Jake Doyle

"Yeah of course.  We always wore helmets in the 80s." - Jake Doyle

"A known psycho, he had a tendency to lose his mind on a regular basis." - Jake Doyle

"Mikey Trotter.  Tough, tenacious, was allowed to watch R-rated movies and it showed." - Jake Doyle

"It was both - Tom Cruise and diarrhea.  The two are not mutually exclusive." - Jeff Farmer

"Electronic intelligence so advanced it was deemed not a video game, but an 8-bit entertainment system - Jake Doyle

(L-r) CHE TAFARI as Mikey Trotter, WINSLOW FEGLEY as young Jake Doyle and SANTINO BARNARD as Evan Olsen in New Line Cinema and HBO Max’s family film “8-BIT CHRISTMAS.” (Image from HBO Max)

"My mom was always multi-tasking - thrived on the chaos.  Two things at once, she was golden, but give her a third task to juggle things got dicey and you could get her to agree to stuff she wouldn't normally agree to." - Jake Doyle

"A kid who thinks? How refreshing! Maybe you could teach my students how to do that." - Kathy Doyle

"My dad was something of a dyslexic Bob Villa." - Jake Doyle

"It's a beautiful memory and a gross cup." - Kathy Doyle

"It's not even below zero out.  What have you been doing inside all day?" - John Doyle

"Video games make you fat, Jake.  It's a fact." - John Doyle

"Looks like a no-go on the 'Tendo." - Lizzy Doyle

"He smells like my dad after he practices guitar in the garage." - Teddy Hodges

"You have to be specially trained in Tae Kwon Do, which is like karate - just more expensive." - Timmy Keane

"Sucks to lose. . .to a girl." - Tammy Hodges

"Hey, what I can I tell you, it was the 80s - things got real." - Jake Doyle

(L-r) JUNE DIANE RAPHAEL as Kathy Doyle, NEIL PATRICK HARRIS as Jake Doyle and SOPHIA REID-GANTZERT as Annie Doyle in New Line Cinema and HBO Max’s family film “8-BIT CHRISTMAS.” (Image from HBO Max)

"It was a complicated decade." - Jake Doyle

"It was the end-o of Nintendo at the Keanes." - Jake Doyle

"Would I be arrested?  Would I go to jail?  Or worse, would I never play Nintendo again?" - Jake Doyle

"It could be 20 below with a Soviet attack on the way and we'd still have school." - Jake Doyle

"Back then people were more close minded about fashion. . .and everything else." - Jake Doyle

"It's called the Dewey Decimal System.  Right.  This is a life skill people, like cursive." - Ms. Hugo

"Connor Stump was the weirdest kid in school.  He always carried around a recorder and his lunch was almost exclusively tuna." - Jake Doyle

"What, do you have a learning disability or something? Wait. . .you don't really have a learning disability do you?" - Neighbor

"A swarm of snot-nosed Gordon Gekkos had been born." - Jake Doyle

"I won't take no for an answer.  That is the first rule of salesmanship!  The first rule!" - Josh Jagorski

"You have to do what I tell my kids in class to do everyday - make that a vacuum cleaner, suck it up and do the work." - Kathy Doyle

WINSLOW FEGLEY as young Jake Doyle in New Line Cinema and HBO Max’s family film “8-BIT CHRISTMAS.” (Image from HBO Max)

"Our yard looked like a vanilla cake that someone dumped an entire bag of chocolate chips on." - Jake Doyle

"You think I like paying taxes and talking to our neighbors?  No.  But you gotta do it." - John Doyle

"Santa didn't get me a She-Ra last year so I can't trust him.  I have to go through mom and dad." - Lizzy Doyle

"Well, turtlenecks and your parents.  Great." - John Doyle

"Everyone - no bathroom breaks.  You had your chance at home.  Do not test me." - Kathy Doyle

"Sold out in 20 minutes.  Last patch in all of Chicago.  One woman punched a grandma right in the throat.  Same family too." - Store Janitor

"Forget your sister, Jake.  She's useless." - Nintendo

"The actual cost of my retainer had been explained to me in terms of 'if you lose it, don't bother coming home.' I figured it cost roughly as much as a new car." - Jake Doyle

"Do you want to deal with your sister if she doesn't get what she wants?  I don't negotiate with terrorists." - John Doyle

"Word is you've come into a little cabbage?" - John Doyle

"It's a globe of the whole world!  All of it!" - Scout Leader

"It was like winning more school. Why had the troop leaders promised us toys and then given us books?" - Jake Doyle

"Who cares about Billy Ripken?" - Tammy Hodges

"Nice Trapper Keeper, Doyle." - Josh Jagorski

"Connor Stump wasn't a weirdo - he was a rebel.  He didn't care about being called names.  He didn't care about bullies." - Jake Doyle

"This was a tragedy so great that I'd never go to prom, never go to college, never leave the house.  I'd become a 30-year-old balding man in his parents' basement making elaborate pictures of Zelda on his Lite-Brite." - Jake Doyle

"That was the Christmas you and grandpa found your thing." - Annie Doyle

"He was a magician.  He was a hero.  He was my dad." - Jake Doyle

About 8-Bit Christmas (From HBO Max)

Starring Neil Patrick Harris, Winslow Fegley, June Diane Raphel and Steve Zahn, 8-Bit Christmas is a humorous and heartfelt look back at the adventures of childhood. Set in suburban Chicago in the late 1980s, the story centers on ten-year-old Jake Doyle’s (Fegley) herculean quest to get the latest and greatest video game system for Christmas.

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Is Ghostbusters: Afterlife OK to Watch with Kids? - Family Movie Review

Ghostbusters: Afterlife - Image from Sony Pictures

There was a time in my life where I dreamed of owning a real proton pack and cruising around town in my very own Ecto-1 vehicle.  I mean, after all, if you were a child of the 80s, was there anything cooler than dreaming of being a Ghostbuster?  In looking back on the original films, they're not exactly "kid friendly," but I remember watching them and planning my own ghost-busting missions around town.  In 2021, the Ghostbusters franchise has been resurrected with the arrival of Ghostbusters: Afterlife.  I definitely knew this was on a "must watch" list of mine, but was debating whether or not to see it with the kids.  Following our IMAX viewing this weekend, I'm ready to answer the question - is Ghostbusters: Afterlife OK to watch with kids?

Ghostbusters: Afterlife Movie Review

Ghostbusters: Afterlife is set in the present day - nearly 40 years after the OG Ghostbusters crew saved New York from total annihilation.  Our new film picks up with a family coming to rural midwestern America following the death of an estranged father and grandfather.  When they arrive, the precocious tweenage daughter, Phoebe (McKenna Grace), quickly discovers that there is much more to this small town than what meets the eye.  With the help of her equally curious summer school teacher, Mr. Grooberson (Paul Rudd), they start to speculate about what might be leading to strange occurances around town, while at the same time Phoebe and her family uncover their families connection to the original Ghostbusters.  

Ghostbusters: Afterlife - Image from Sony Pictures

Similar to the original movie, there is a good mix of comedy, scares, and even a little love story for the audiences.  Unlike the original though, the graphics are way better leading this to be a more "real" experience for the viewer.  Watching the movie in IMAX was immersive - featuring a few jump out of your seat moments, even though they were predictable.  Grace, Rudd, and Logan Kim (who plays Podcast) all carry the film and fans will be happy to know that there are quite a few cameos and nostalgic nods as well.  

Don't forget to stick around during the credits for both a mid-credits AND a post-credits scene.  They are worth the watch and hint that maybe we haven't heard the last of the Ghostbusters just yet!

Is Ghostbusters: Afterlife OK to Watch with Kids?

Ghostbusters: Afterlife - Image from Sony Pictures

All in all, I think this movie is more kid-friendly than our 80s original.  Looking back, I actually can't believe that I watched the Ghostbusters movies at such a young age.  There is less sexual dialogue than the original, but there is some mildly inappropriate language for young kids spaced throughout the film.  The violence is cartoonish / supernatural - nothing bloody or gory.  The same goes for the scare factor.  I actually think this one is a bit scarier than the original with a few more "jump-in-your-seat" moments throughout.  My kids curled in to us to cover their heads quickly and then were right back into the movie.  The real stars of the film are kids this time around which makes this storyline even more relatable to younger audiences than what we watched growing up in the 80s and 90s.  Ultimately, I use an Avengers litmus test and don't rate this any worse than watching an Avengers movie with your kids.  If that's too much for your family, then you may want to screen this first before watching with your little ones.  

About Ghostbusters: Afterlife (From Sony Pictures)

From director Jason Reitman and producer Ivan Reitman, comes the next chapter in the original Ghostbusters universe. In Ghostbusters: Afterlife, when a single mom and her two kids arrive in a small town, they begin to discover their connection to the original ghostbusters and the secret legacy their grandfather left behind. The film is written by Gil Kenan & Jason Reitman.

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Encanto Family Fun!

Disney's animated film, Encanto, featuring the music of Lin-Manuel Miranda releases Thanksgiving 2021 and we have some fun family activities to celebrate the new movie.  Ever since grabbing a sneak peek of this film in the early trailer and images released, I've been excited to see this musical adventure hit the big screen!

About Disney's Encanto (From Walt Disney Studios)

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Encanto” tells the tale of an extraordinary family, the Madrigals, who live hidden in the mountains of Colombia, in a magical house, in a vibrant town, in a wondrous, charmed place called an Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift from super strength to the power to heal—every child except one, Mirabel (voice of Stephanie Beatriz). But when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is in danger, Mirabel decides that she, the only ordinary Madrigal, might just be her exceptional family’s last hope. The film is directed by Jared Bush (co-director “Zootopia”) and Byron Howard (“Zootopia,” “Tangled”), co-directed by Charise Castro Smith (writer “The Death of Eva Sofia Valdez”), and produced by Yvett Merino and Clark Spencer; the screenplay is by Castro Smith and Bush. “Encanto” features original songs by Emmy®, GRAMMY® and Tony Award® winner Lin-Manuel Miranda (“Hamilton,” “Moana”); Germaine Franco (“Dora and the Lost City of Gold,” “Little,” “Tag”) composed the original score.

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Disney on Ice Presents Let's Celebrate - Coming to Washington DC 2022

Disney on Ice presents Let's Celebrate - Image from Feld Entertainment

The magic of Disney skates back into the Capital One Arena in Washington DC with the upcoming Disney on Ice presents Let's Celebrate!  We've caught Disney on Ice performances before and am so excited for their return back to our area February 2022.  

Combining classic Disney hits with new favorites, audiences are sure to find a lot to love as they dance and sing along to the show.  Catch your Disney friends in DC at the Capital One Arena on the dates below:

Disney on Ice presents Let's Celebrate - Image from Feld Entertainment

• Thursday, 2/17/21 - 7:00
• Friday, 2/18/21 - 7:00
• Saturday, 2/19/21 - 10:30, 2:30, and 6:30
• Sunday, 2/20/21 - 10:30, 2:30, and 6:30
• Monday, 2/21/21 - 11:30

Tickets go on sale to the general public on November 16, 2021 by visiting Ticketmaster.  

In the meantime, check out the latest from Disney entertainment in theaters and streaming at home!

About Disney on Ice - Let's Celebrate

Audiences will be a part of the magic of Disney as Mouse-ter of Ceremonies Mickey Mouse leads a parade of more than 50 beloved characters starring Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy and featuring an ensemble of Disney Princesses including Cinderella, Rapunzel, Ariel, Snow White and Tiana.  The wintry wonderland of Disney’s Frozen also comes to life with Anna, Elsa, and the hilarious Olaf, as they discover that true love is the greatest magic of all.  Exciting moments from Disney•Pixar’s Finding Dory, Disney’s Aladdin and Beauty and the Beast will leave the whole family with memories to last a lifetime.

The legacy of Disney is displayed through 14 classic and modern stories in this epic production that features an international team of award-winning figure skaters, high-energy choreography and a breathtaking set.  With over 30 melodious masterpieces such as “Let It Go!,” “You’ve Got A Friend in Me” and “Hakuna Matata,” Disney On Ice Let’s Celebrate is the ultimate Disney fan experience.  Families will join the fun in an exciting opening number that salutes Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse as the original hosts of Disney On Ice in an unforgettable experience in your hometown!

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