What's In My Book Bag?

The Book and the Rose Movie Review

The Book and the Rose takes us on a journey when a man begins reading a used copy of Anna Karenina.  At first the numerous notes in the margins annoy him, but then they begin to intrigue him.   Who is this person who wrote her thoughts throughout the book?

 

If you like romance, old books and handwritten letters, this is a quick story to entertain.  If you find yourself making notes in your own copy of Anna Karenina, you might want to also include a bookplate.  Do so at your own risk.  No guarantees that the next person who finds it is as wonderful as John.

 

This film is based on a short story by Max Lucado and is 30 min long.  It is not rated.

 

I was able to watch this video for free with my Amazon Prime membership.

Undiscovered Disney Parks -- Movie Review

 

If you are planning your next Disney vacation or just want to travel in your mind from the comfort of your couch, Undiscovered Disney Parks gives you a look at some of the extra experiences you could include but might not know about. We also get a peek at some of the places that most of us will never be able to see in person, such as Club 33 and more.  

 

Topics covered include extra activities, food experiences, special celebrations at certain times of the year and select resorts/hotels.  I found myself learning things I did not know and wanting to know even more.  I would recommend if you are planning your next Disney vacation or for those who are fans and can't get enough of the parks.  Both Disneyland in California and Walt Disney World in Florida are included in this video.

 

Note for parents:

I mention these items for parents who would like to know that they are in the video before showing to their family. Most of these are relatively brief in comparison to the video as a whole. All could be used as discussion starters for your family to share your beliefs.

 

This video does show the theme park decorated for Halloween. There are brief scenes of mummies or zombies in a parade and a "Headless Horseman".

 

There are scenes from the swimming areas. Most boys are wearing long trunks. Girls are wearing two piece swimsuits. Mentioned for families who practice modesty in clothing and swimwear.

 

The video does talk about the Fairy Godmothers in Training (the beauticians) "casting a spell" (basically "may your wishes come true") over little girls getting their hair done at the Bippity Boppity Boutique.

 

I was able to watch this video for free with my Amazon Prime membership. I think this video has also been shown on stations like the Travel Channel on cable television.

The Smurfs Movie Review and $1.99 Amazon Instant Video Rental

Any Smurf fans out there?  I know my cousins loved watching the Smurfs as kids.  Right now Amazon has The Smurfs (the movie) available as one of their instant video rentals for $1.99.

 

 

MY MOVIE REVIEW:

I had a chance to see this movie when it was playing in the theater this summer.  Imagine getting to see how the Smurfs live but then imagine humans also interacting with them.  It is amazing what they can do with computer graphics (but I'm probably starting to show my age so I'll get back to the review).  I enjoyed watching this movie with my nephews.  I like the actors Neil Patrick Harris and Jayma Mays (of Glee), so seeing them interacting with the Smurfs was a lot of fun.  Watching the Smurfs get into things around their apartment was entertaining and seeing the Smurfs make their way around New York City was an adventure.  This movie might just have you seeing Smurf blue -- and that's a good thing.

 

Spoiler alert: There is "cartoon type" violence.  For instance Gargamel (human) is hit by a bus and is just a little squished against the windshield but not seriously injured.   Some dialogue is a bit risque but even some of that is included in the movie trailers.

 

I've noticed that these rock bottom rental prices don't always last very long.  As best I can tell it looks like this price is good through this weekend and will end on Monday, January 2, 2012.  If you are interested I would get it soon.  You have 30 days to start your rental after you purchase it.  Once you start it you have 48 hours to finish watching it.

 

If you haven't had a chance to try the Amazon Instant videos you can go to Amazon to learn more about How Amazon Instant Videos Work.

Glee: The Concert Movie Review and $1.99 Amazon Instant Video Rental

Calling all Gleeks (fans of the tv show Glee).  Right now Amazon has Glee: The Concert Movie available as one of their instant video rentals for $1.99.

 

MY MOVIE REVIEW:

I had a chance to see this movie when it was playing in the theater.  I saw it in 3D.  I would say it is definitely meant for fans of the show.  It is a documentary of the concerts that took place in venues across the country.  The behind the scenes was fun.  Lots of the same songs that were on the tv show.  You might even find yourself singing along.  Don't expect anything earth shattering.  It is primarily a synopsis of the show as a concert.  The performances are bigger because they take place on an arena stage instead of in a "classroom" setting.

 

I've noticed that these rock bottom rental prices don't always last very long.  As best I can tell it looks like this price is good through this weekend and will end on Monday, January 2, 2012.  If you are interested I would get it soon.  You have 30 days to start your rental after you purchase it.  Once you start it you have 48 hours to finish watching it.

 

If you haven't had a chance to try the Amazon Instant videos you can go to Amazon to learn more about How Amazon Instant Videos Work.

Christmas Mail Movie Review

I am definitely a fan of the Christmas movie.  It  just seems to help me get into the holiday spirit.  They are usually light hearted and I enjoy watching while I'm wrapping presents or just sipping a hot cup of cocoa.

I've been looking forward to seeing the movie, Christmas Mail.  It was your typical cute romantic comedy.  Matt the mailman is the parent to his niece, Emily, after the death of her parents.  Emily writes to Santa and Santa's letters are answered at the Post Office by Kristi North.  Matt is assigned by his supervisor to spy on this new employee, Kristi.  Will Matt develop feelings for Kristi?  What will happen when Kristi finds out he is spying on her for the boss?  Will Emily get her Christmas wish?

Available in both DVD and Amazon Instant Download.