The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey

ALL-NEW SPECIAL FEATURES ON BLU-RAY 3D, BLU-RAY AND DVD:

• Commentary with Peter Jackson, Director/Producer/Screenwriter and Philippa Boyens, Co-Producer/Screenwriter
• The Appendices – A multi-part chronological history of the filming of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, covering pre-production in the various departments of the film in the months leading up to the start of principal photography, the boot camp training for the main cast, the work done on set chronologically through the three shooting blocks and in the world of its digital effects.
• New Zealand: Home of Middle-earth

The Hobbit Giveaway

One winner will receive the Extended Edition Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + Digital HD of The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. This giveaway is open to US residents only. The giveaway ends at 12:00am on 1-18-14.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received Blu-Rays as compensation for attending this roundtable. Many of the Blu-rays I received I am giving away to my readers at my own shipping expense. All opinions are 100% mine.

The post Blu-Ray Giveaways-Day 1-The Hobbit appeared first on The Mom Maven.

The Press Release

Praised by critics and moviegoers of all ages, DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc.’s (Nasdaq: DWA) spectacular and heartfelt adventure RISE OF THE GUARDIANS soars onto Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D and DVD on March 12, 2013. Hailed as “brilliant” and “the best family film of the year” (Joel Amos, MovieFanatic.com) with “spellbinding power” (James Verniere, Boston Herald) and “dazzling animation” (Tom Long, Detroit News), RISE OF THE GUARDIANS received outstanding audience reactions and a coveted ‘A’ Cinemascore.

DreamWorks Animation’s newest animated adventure has captured the imagination of audiences worldwide with a fun-filled and magical story about the legendary guardians—Jack Frost, the Easter Bunny, Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy and Sandman—together for the first time! When the evil Pitch threatens to take over the world, it’s up to our beloved heroes to protect the hopes and dreams of children everywhere. Filled with non-stop action and laughs, it’s a dazzling family film that’s being hailed as “an instant classic” (Nancy Jay, Daybreak USA).

Just in time for Easter, RISE OF THE GUARDIANS will be available in a Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy Pack with UltraViolet or single-disc DVD, each of which includes two delightful hopping toy eggs inspired by the ones seen in the film (while supplies last—quantities are limited). The combo pack and single-disc DVD also include special features that take viewers behind-the-scenes to learn more about the magic used to bring the story to life.

Featuring an all-star cast of voice talent including Chris Pine, Alec Baldwin, Hugh Jackman, Isla Fisher and Jude Law, RISE OF THE GUARDIANS delivers humor, adventure and exceptional entertainment that the whole family can enjoy. The film will also be available on March 12th in a three-disc Blu-ray 3D + Blu-ray + DVD + Digital Copy Pack with UltraViolet and for digital download on February 26th.

My Thoughts

This movie is rated PG for a reason, it has a very dark and ominous theme thanks to the presence of the Boogeyman aka Pitch. I would recommend this movie for kids ages 10+. The film is visually stunning but even though I tried to remain open minded and enjoy the film for what it was…but I didn’t like it. The Guardians-Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, Sandman, the Tooth Fairy and newcomer Jack Frost say their goal is to protect the children and “hope, wonder and light”to the world. Throughout the film the Guardians say that children need to have faith in them and believe BUT the main children in the movie don’t have faith (ie belief in things unseen), these children don’t believe until they see…which is not faith but proof.

While this is a clean movie with no bad language there is some mild violence, magic and talk about who the Guardians were in their “former lives”. Yes, in the end good overcomes evil and everything is wrapped up in a nice neat package.

Speaking of packages, for a limited time the Blu-Ray/DVD comes with hopping Easter Eggs!

Personally, I don’t recommend this movie for Christian families of young children. Even if you do Santa etc, this film is rather dark and scary and while there are a few teachable moments they don’t outweigh the poor storytelling, putting faith in things other than God and dark theming.

Have you and your children watched Rise of the Guardians? What were your thoughts? please leave me a comment and let me know.

The post Rise of the Guardians Blu-ray Review appeared first on The Mom Maven.

I know I have been waiting for 3 of these movies to come on Blu-ray and I am excited to finally have a release date.

The post Disney to Release More Classics to Blu-ray appeared first on The Mom Maven.

Disney•Pixar’s “Finding Nemo” dives back into homes this coming holiday in breathtaking Blu-rayTM. The must-“sea,” must-own Oscar®-winning underwater adventure—featuring the unforgettable Marlin, his forgetful friend Dory and the lovable young Nemo—swims into living rooms for the first time ever in high-definition Blu-ray, Blu-ray 3D and Digital platforms on December 4, 2012.

The film fully immerses viewers in the stunning underwater world of Finding Nemo! From the creators of Toy Story and Monsters, Inc., Disney•Pixar’scritically acclaimed and heartwarming tale splashes off the screen with brilliant digital picture, high definition sound and breathtaking 3D bonus features that transport you beyond your imagination.

“Finding Nemo,” first released in theaters in 2003, earned the Oscar® for Best Animated Feature Film and remains the fifth highest grossing animated film worldwide. In 2008, the American Film Institute named ―Finding Nemo‖ among the top 10 greatest animated films ever made, and it is the second highest grossing Pixar film to date (behind “Toy Story 3”).

The Blu-ray 2D and 3D debuts mark the first time ―Finding Nemo has ever been available in these hi-def formats. Featuring pristine high definition picture and sound, the Blu-ray creates an incredible at-home experience with a host of interactive features and bonus features including 3D Virtual Aquariums, 2D Virtual Aquariums, CineExplore, A Filmmakers’ Roundtable and more.

The hi-def home entertainment release of “Finding Nemo” will be available as a 5-Disc Ultimate Collector’s Edition (2 Blu-ray 2D + 1 Blu-ray 3D + 1 DVD + 1 Digital Copy), 3-Disc Collector’s Edition (2 Blu-ray 2D + 1 DVD), 3D Digital & High-Definition Digital formats.

BONUS FEATURES:

Blu-ray 3D Disc:

• 3D HD Aquariums

Blu-ray Disc One:

• Knick Knack‖ Theatrical Short Film (Rated: G)
•  Aquarium
•  CineExplore
•  Finding Nemo – A Filmmakers’ Roundtable
• Reinventing the Submarine Voyage
•  Deleted Scene: “Alt Opening”
• A Lesson in Flashbacks

Blu-ray Disc Two:

• Aquariums
•  Art Review
• Classic Content (Making Nemo, Exploring the Reef , Studio Tour, Old School, Outtakes, Deleted Scenes, Publicity Pieces, Mr. Ray’s Encyclopedia)

DVD:

• Knick Knack‖ Theatrical Short Film (Rated: G)
• Finding Nemo – A Filmmakers’ Roundtable
• Aquarium

Digital:

• Knick Knack‖ Theatrical Short Film (Rated: G)
• Finding Nemo – A Filmmakers’ Roundtable
• Deleted Scene: ―Alt Opening‖
• A Lesson in Flashbacks
• Art Review
• Classic Content (Making Nemo, Exploring the Reef, Studio Tour, Old School, Outtakes, Deleted Scenes, Publicity Pieces)

SOCIAL MEDIA:

Those who would like to stay connected with the exciting “Finding Nemo” release are encouraged to:

•  “Like” the  Finding Nemo Facebook page 
• Follow DisneyPixar on Twitter 
• Visit the official Finding Nemo website

My Review

I already loved the movie and it looks stunning in Blu-ray, so I focused on checking out the bonus features and they are A-Mazing! Yes, I am a Disney film geek but I am so happy to finally own the Pixar short “Knick Knack” Aside from that, I love learning about the process of movie making and the bonus features on “Finding Nemo” gave me plenty to enjoy. I haven’t made it through the entire CineExplore yet, but Finding Nemo – A Filmmakers’ Roundtable, Reinventing the Submarine Voyage, Deleted Scene: “Alt Opening” and A Lesson in Flashbacks are all entertaining and educational. I honestly don’t get the Aquariums, maybe they are just too passive for me.

The other night I was chatting with a fellow Disney geek and he told me he hadn’t purchased “Finding Nemo” on Blu-Ray and he didn’t plan to (he always buys every Disney movie on Blu-ray on release day). I told him about all of the awesome bonus features and he decided he would go out the next day and buy it, just for the bonus features! Take a look at one of my favorite Bonus Features.

“Finding Nemo” Blu-Ray/DVD Combo Pack will make a great Christmas gift for any child or Disney fan on your list!

Disclosure: I received a copy of the Blu-ray/DVD Combo pack for the purpose of this review. All opinions are 100% mine.

The post Holiday Guide-Finding Nemo Blu-Ray appeared first on The Mom Maven.

Cinderella II: Dreams Come True Special Edition

As a newly crowned princess, Cinderella quickly learns that life at the Palace— and her royal responsibilities are more challenging than she had imagined. In three heartwarming tales, Cinderella calls on her animal friends and her Fairy Godmother to help as she brings her own grace and charm to her regal role and discovers that being true to yourself is the best way to make your dreams come true.

Cinderella III: A Twist In Time Special Edition

Princess Cinderella is living a charmingly perfect life until her stepmother gets her hands on Fairy Godmother’s magic wand. With a wicked spell that turns back the clock, she erases the Prince’s memories of the girl he met at the ball and shatters Cinderella’s happily ever after! Jaq and Gus scurry to save the day before time runs out. But was it all really just a dream in Cinderella’s heart, or will true love triumph over all?

Bonus Features:

Cinderella II: Dreams Come True Special Edition

Becoming a Princess – 1st Edition (New for Special Edition)-A girl will go to “princess school” to receive tips on how to behave like royalty, then become physically transformed into a Disney Princess (dress, hair, make- up) at the Bibbidi-Bobbidi Boutique in Walt Disney World. Now dressed as a princess, she will practice what she learned.
Musical Magic-“Put It Together” Music Video

Cinderella III: A Twist In Time Special Edition

Becoming a Princess – 2nd Edition (New for Special Edition)-A girl will go to “princess school” to receive tips on how to behave like royalty, then become physically transformed into a Disney Princess (dress, hair, make- up) at the Bibbidi-Bobbidi Boutique in Walt Disney World. Now dressed as a princess, she will practice what she learned.

My Thoughts,/h2>
We have Cinderella II on VHS so I was familiar with that story. Cinderella III was all new to us and we enjoyed it, though it seems to take the story in an odd direction. If you have a little princess at home, this 2 DVD pack would make a great Christmas gift for her.

Disclosure: I received a copy of the 2 DVD/Blu-ray Combo Pack for the purpose of this review. All opinions are 100% mine.

The post Holiday Guide-Cinderella II & III on Blu-ray appeared first on The Mom Maven.

I took the quiz and I am…Tinker Bell! She just happens to be my favorite Disney character, besides Mickey Mouse, so this quiz result made me happy!

The post Secret of the Wings Available Today appeared first on The Mom Maven.

FILM SYNOPSIS:

Journey with Tinker Bell and her fairy friends into the forbidden world of the mysterious Winter Woods, where curiosity and adventure lead Tink to an amazing discovery and reveal a magical secret that could change her world forever.

Cast:

• Academy Award®-Winner Anjelica Huston (TV’s ‘Smash’)
• Timothy Dalton (TV’s ‘Chuck’, The Living Daylights)
• Lucy Liu (TV’s ‘Southland’, Charlie’s Angels)
• Raven-Symoné (TV’s ‘That’s So Raven’)
• Megan Hilty (TV’s ‘Smash’)
• Pamela Adlon (TV’s ‘Californication’)
• Matt Lanter (TV’s ‘90210’)
• Debby Ryan (TV’s ‘Jesse’)
• Mae Whitman (TV’s ‘Parenthood’)
• introducing the sparkling new winter fairy, PERIWINKLE, voiced by Lucy Hale (TV’s ‘Pretty Little Liars’).

A DisneyToon Studios production, the film is directed by Peggy Holmes, co-directed by Bobs Gannaway, and produced by Michael Wigert. John Lasseter serves as Executive Producer.

To celebrate the upcoming release of “Secret of the Wings,” Disney has launched a new destination in Facebook for parents to stay updated on Disney Fairies news as well as receive the best new content and activities that they can share with their children. Audiences can become a fan now at:  https://www.facebook.com/DisneyFairies. 

“Secret of the Wings” is coming to Blu-ray, DVD and Digital Download on October 23rd!

The post A Closer Look at Secret of the Wings appeared first on The Mom Maven.

I remember back in 2000 when “The Tigger Movie” came to theaters, my boys then 5 and 7 and I made a special weekend out of the movie release and it is something they still mention today. Now, 12 years later you can share “The Tigger Movie” with your family as it bounces onto Blu-Ray Tuesday, August 21, 2012.

Walt Disney Studios brings the magic of the Hundred Acre Wood to life with “The Tigger Movie,” bouncing onto Blu-ray high definition and HD Digital for the first time on August 21, 2012. Featuring new digitally enhanced picture and sound and exclusive bonus features, “The Tigger Movie” Bounce-A-Riffic Special Edition Blu-ray Combo Pack invites families to relive the childhood fun of the one and only Tigger.

The exciting new Blu-ray Combo Pack provides hours of viewing fun with bonus materials including two all-new features: Disney Intermission—when the film is paused, young fans can participate in a variety of Hundred Acre Wood themed games including guess the character, spot the differences and counting; and “A Tigger Tale” a featurette where the filmmakers discuss how Tigger’s literary and film history influenced “The Tigger Movie.”

The Tigger Movie: Bounce-A-Rrrific Special Edition (Two-Disc Blu-ray/DVD Combo in Blu-ray Packaging) is a tiggerific treat for the whole family and for added fun, comes packaged with a family tree activity poster and stickers.

In this charming musical tale of friendship and adventure, “The Tigger Movie” Bounce-A-Riffic Special Edition follows Tigger as he sets off on an epic journey to find other Tiggers in his family tree. Through a series of exciting adventures he discovers that families come in all shapes and sizes. This fun and playful animated tale delights a whole new generation of fans with its timeless characters and storytelling, rich animation and delightful songs by legendary Disney songwriting team of brothers, Richard and Robert Sherman. The film features the Hundred Acre Wood’s most lovable characters, Pooh, Eeyore, Tigger, Piglet and the rest of the gang.

I LOVE the bonus features on the Blu-Ray. The “A Tigger Tale” featurette gives great insight into the creation of this special film while harkening back to classic Winnie the Pooh tales. The Disney Intermission feature is genius!! Now if you need to pause the movie so one child can run to the potty the other kids will be entertained until you resume the movie. In addition to those brand new features, the Blu-Ray also contains:

• 10 Mini Adventures of Winnie the Pooh shorts – The journey continues with these 10 animated shorts featuring all of the Hundred Acre Wood characters.
• “Round My Family Tree” Sing-Along Song – In this feature, fans can sing along with Tigger as the lyrics are highlighted on screen.
• Kenny Loggins Music Video “Your Heart Will Lead You Home” – Singer/songwriter Kenny Loggins reunites with the Hundred Acre Wood characters in this heartwarming music video.

If you are a Disney fan or a Tigger fan, this DVD is a must have in your collection. I’d love to know which character from the Hundred Acre Woods is your favorite and why so please leave e a comment and let me know. Don’t forget to like “The Tigger Movie” on Facebook and Follow Disney Pictures on Twitter.

Disclosure: I received a copy of the DVD/Blu-Ray Combo Pack for the purpose of this review. All opinions are 100% my own. There are affiliate links in this post.

The post The Tigger Movie Bounces onto Blu-Ray August 21st appeared first on The Mom Maven.

• Tinker Bell and Periwinkle’s Snow Cone Stand Recipes
• Secret of the Wings Fairy Friend Feeder Craft
• A Maze to the Winter Woods

Just click on the graphic below, or in my sidebar to download these fun activities. I can’t wait to make the Fairy Friend Feeder Craft with the girls at church.

About the Film:

Disney presents the first Fairies movie in over two years. Join Tinker Bell and friends on their new adventure into the never-before-seen mysterious Winter Woods, where Tinker Bell finds out that she has a sister and discovers other incredible secrets that will change her life forever.

A magical fairy adventure for the whole family, “Secret of the Wings” features a spectacular voice cast including Academy Award®-Winner Anjelica Huston (“Smash”) as Queen Clarion, Timothy Dalton (“Chuck,” “The Living Daylights”) as Lord Milori, Lucy Liu (“Southland,” “Charlie’s Angels”) as Silvermist, Raven-Symoné (“That’s So Raven”) as Iridessa, Megan Hilty (“Smash”) as Rosetta the Garden Fairy, Pamela Adlon (“Californication”) as Vidia, Matt Lanter (“90210”) as Sled, Debby Ryan (Disney Channel’s “Jessie”) as Spike, Mae Whitman (“Parenthood”) as Tinker Bell, and introducing the sparkling new winter fairy, Periwinkle, voiced by Lucy Hale (ABC Family’s “Pretty Little Liars”).

Are you and your family excited about the newest addition to the Disney Fairies franchise? Who is your favorite fairy?

The post Secret of the Wings Activity Pages appeared first on The Mom Maven.

Tinker Bell and Periwinkle

I am a huge Tinker Bell and Disney Fairies fan so I can’t wait to get Tink on Blu-Ray for the first time!
The Walt Disney Studios unveils an all-new, original full-length CG-animated feature film, “Secret of the Wings,” starring Tinker Bell, one of Disney’s most beloved and iconic characters, along with her fairy friends (Fawn, Iridessa, Rosetta, Silvermist and Vidia) and introducing a sparkling new winter fairy, Periwinkle. Debuting on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD and Digital on October 23, 2012, the film marks the first time ever Tinker Bell will fly on Disney Blu-ray 3D.
For Tinker Bell and the other warm season fairies, the Winter Woods remains a mysterious and forbidden place. “Secret of the Wings” takes audiences on an amazing journey of discovery with Tink, into this forbidden world where she discovers a magical secret that changes her life forever.

Are you, or your little pixie looking forward to this movie as much as I am? Leave me a comment and let me know your favorite fairy.

The post Secret of the Wings Sneak Peek appeared first on The Mom Maven.