Toy Story 3

This is one of the rare cases wherein I, the parent, enjoyed the film more than my kiddos. To start, Pixar has done it again! These guys can't seem to hit a false note. The film definitely lives up to the legacy of the previous two and absolutely worth a trip to the theater.

That said, it is scary for younger children. If I had it to do again, I would not take my three year old. Andy's (and our) favorite toys are endangered multiple times but more disturbing for my youngest, there is a very menacing teddy bear in the mix. Even my son (age six) seemed a little overwhelmed by this one. But in the end, he was fully in love with the film and ready to buy everything Toy Story 3 he could get his hands on (thanks a lot, Disney Pixar!)

Nobody beats Pixar in animation. And they really create wonderful stories that live up to the visual beauty. This one is a poignant look at growing up and the choices we make -- what we take with us and what we leave behind. Trust me if you are a parent, you'll want to bring a tissue or two.

Overall, it is a definite, "Step Out" for school age kids and up. For the younger one, I'd say wait for the DVD.

Overall:


Age Appropriateness (School Age):

Under 5:

Child Attention Span:

Adult Enjoyment:

Marmaduke

Way overdue but this film was not worthy of much attention. Basically, my kids enjoyed it but my husband and I were in pain! There are two story lines -- the family story (overworked/stressed Dad checks out of family life) and the dog story ("Some Kind of Wonderful" for dogs). Both stories are trite -- so much so that the good cast could not save it. Therefore, with no further ado...


Rating:
Overall: >


Age Appropriateness (6 and Up):

Child attention Span:

Adult Enjoyment:

This is a "Stay In". My kids enjoyed it so come DVD time, it may be worth your while but save the big bucks at a theater.

Shrek: The Final Chapter

Having seen Shrek 1,2,3, and the Christmas special often enough to commit them all to memory, I was unsure whether any new territory could be covered by the latest and last installation. I am happy to report that I was pleasantly surprised. The story is nothing new -- think "Shrek" meets "A Wonderful Life" with a little bit of "Braveheart" thrown in. Yet it is sweetly played out. The story is made fresh by the "what would happen if I was never born" angle. It allowed old characters to be viewed anew, both by the audience and by Shrek. It is a lesson in appreciating the beauties of everyday life. (I'll admit it -- watching Shrek fall in love with Fiona all over again touched this old mom's soft spot!)

Both of my children enjoyed it and so did my husband and I. Another nice surprise... unlike other Shrek episodes, there was no extended over-the-top inappropriate innuendo. I found it appropriate for both my three year-old and my six year-old.


Rating:
Overall:

Age Appropriateness (6 and Up):

Child attention Span:

Adut Enjoyment:


I definitely give this "Step Out"!

Also, my great friend Kelly over at Kelly's Lucky You wrote a review, as well. Here's a link to hers. Go check her out...

http://kellysluckyyou.blogspot.com/2010/05/movie-review-shrek-forever-after.html