Emojis have forever changed the way we communicate and express ourselves. I often select emojis based on my mood or state of mind. The Emoji Movie hit theaters today, and we are feeling all kinds of emoticons about the new film. Sony’s computer- animated film will take moviegoers on a fun “app-venture!”
Earlier this week, we also hit The Emoji Movie premiere in Los Angeles California. We were elated to see the amount enthusiasm for the new film.
The Emoji Movie created by Sony Pictures,unlocks a secret world that lives inside your phone. Gene (T.J. Miller), is a exuberant emoji who was born without a filter and is bursting with multiple expressions. Gene is determined to become “normal” like the other emojis, in Textopolis, (city where emojis live, hoping to be selected by the phone’s user). In this world, each emoji has only one facial expression. Gene enlists the help of his handy best friend Hi-5 (James Corden) and the notorious code breaker emoji Jailbreak (Anna Faris). Together, they embark on an epic “app-venture” through the apps on the phone, each its own wild and fun world, to find the Code that will fix Gene. But when a greater danger threatens the phone, the fate of all emojis depends on these three unlikely friends who must save their world before it’s deleted forever.
TJ Miller looked dapper in his yellow emoji suit, and his lovely wife Kate was all smiles at the premiere. Tj stars as Gene, a multi-expressional emoji.
Gene is uncertain of his future, but his malfunction saves the day. My favorite part of the film is when Gene gets stuck in the Candy Crush game. It is just hilarious!
Maya Rudolph looked adorable in this unique floral knit dress.
Maya plays the voice of Smiler, an evil emoticon who wears a big grin. She is deceptive and also controlling.
What’s your favorite emoji? I often send kisses to the favorite people in my life…
This movie is super cute and has a great message!
Mario Lopez appeared to be a little “pooped out” at the celebration.
Glozell looked bright and bubbly in yellow at the premiere. Love her!
The Emoji Movie is hilarious and great for the entire family. Go meet Hi-5, Gene, Jailbreak, and the rest of Textopolis NOW in theaters everywhere!
I love scary spine-chilling films that keep me on the edge of my seat. “Unforgettable” is now available on DVD and Blu-Ray. This seductive thriller screams sex, lies, and insanity… My kind of movie!
“Unforgettable” is now available on Blu-ray for $29.98, and includes the film in high definition on Blu-ray disc, a DVD and a digital version of the movie in Digital HD with UltraViolet*.
Enter the Rafflecopter below to win a DVD or Blu-ray copy before August 18th!
Ad: Unforgettable DVD & Blu-ray giveaway provided by Warner Bros. All opinions are my own.
Synopsis:
Katherine Heigl stars as Tessa Connover, who is barely coping with the end of her marriage when her ex-husband, David (Geoff Stults), becomes happily engaged to Julia Banks (Dawson)-not only bringing Julia into the home they once shared but also into the life of their daughter, Lilly (Isabella Rice). Trying to settle into her new role as a wife and a stepmother, Julia believes she has finally met the man of her dreams, the man who can help her put her own troubled past behind her. But Tessa’s jealousy soon takes a pathological turn until she will stop at nothing to turn Julia’s dream into her ultimate nightmare.
Julia Banks (Rosario Dawson) is happily engaged to David (Geoff Stults). This optimistic bright eyed woman, leaves her past behind for a new start, in a new town.
Dawson is sexy and fierce and in her role as Julia. There are many twists in turns in this movie that kept me intrigued while screening this film…
Photo credit to Karen Ballard- Warner Bros
What secrets does Julia hold in her past that can jeopardize her future with David?
You have to watch this movie to find out!
Photo credit to Karen Ballard- Warner Bros.
I cringed when Tessa (Heigl) made unbearable twisted B*#@TCH moves on Julia, David’s bride to be….
Katherine Heigl brilliantly executed the role of Tessa, a narcissistic bitter ex wife, with MAJOR control issues.
Photo credit to Karen Ballard- Warner Bros.
A mother’s bond with her child is like no other. So when Tessa has to leave her daughter with her ex hubby and his fiancé, she takes “CRAZY” to entirely whole new level…
Photo credit to Karen Ballard- Warner Bros.
Isabella Kai Rice who stars as sweet Lily, is caught in the middle of this stressful family feud.
Rice perfectly portrayed the role of a broken and conflicted child.
Photo credit to Karen Ballard- Warner Bros.
This movie is suspenseful, insane, and a powerful portrayal of jealousy gone mad…..
Move over Glenn Close (Fatal Attraction), there is a new “Femme Fatale” in town!
Unforgettable is a MUST SEE!
Enter the Rafflecopter below to win a DVD or Blu-ray copy before August 18th. Three winners will be selected.
If so, you don’t want to miss Marvel Universe LIVE this weekend at the Honda Center in Anaheim!
Last night we made it out to opening night of the show, and it was spectacular! This action packed adventure kept my son and I on the edge of our seats. This show is great for the entire family…
Hosted: Thank you Marvel and Feld Entertainment for inviting us to Marvel Universe LIVE! All opinions are my own.
About Marvel Universe LIVE
Super hero action, thrills and drama will soar, smash and burst into arenas across the country starting this summer with the debut of the all-new action-packed adventure Marvel Universe LIVE! Age of Heroes. The iconic Marvel Super Heroes Spider-Man and The Avengers are joined by the Guardians of the Galaxy, including Star-Lord, Gamora, Groot, Rocket and Drax, in a
legendary battle to defend the universe from evil.
This good vs evil battle takes spectators on a rollercoaster ride. Marvel Universe LIVE had nonstop action, unbelievable stunts, and was filled with AMAZING special effects. The fire dance was my favorite part of the show. My 10 year old son said, “The battle scenes were so cool mom!” He was ecstatic to see Spider-Man, Drax, Star-Lord, Groot, and his favorite Marvel characters all in one arena.
We took a behind the scenes look at Marvel Universe LIVE and were totally geeking out!
At preview day we learned first hand some of the incredible stunt moves used in the show from the athletic performers directly; and watched some of the epic battle scenes demos live! We also experienced a “sword fight” choreography with Kali Stick demos.
We took a look at the backstage wardrobe tour of costumes & props featured in the show. It was incredible to see how an extraordinary show like this comes together.
This show is a MUST-SEE… Go see it this weekend at the Honda Center!
Thank you Bounty for sponsoring this post. All Opinions are my own.
My most treasured childhood memories include craft time with family and friends. Technology was very limited when I was growing up, and we relied on our imagination and creativity for fun. We often played outside until dusk, told stories, and made crafts. I want to create memorable moments like these with my son. He is a huge Despicable Me fan, so I decided to help him create a Minion puppet show!
Puppet shows are loads of fun, and inspire kids to use their imagination through storytelling. Here’s an easy DIY that you can make together at home and then use the new Bounty with Despicable Me 3 prints for clean up!
He was totally ecstatic about the activity, and we invited his primas (cousins) to come over and join in on the fun!
The Minions in Despicable Me 3 are just adorable!
Supplies:
Yellow and colored cardstock or construction paper
Large trifold poster board
Scissors
Markers and/or crayons
Glue
Jumbo craft sticks
Large craft googly eyes
Bounty with Despicable Me 3 print paper towels or napkins for clean up!
We searched online and looked at different Minions to help design each puppet.
Directions:
1. Use oval shaped stencil, plastic container, or shaped object and trace on yellow paper (recommended size 8 1/2″ tall 5″ wide)
2.Cut the oval shape for the Minion body
3.Cut out shapes to create and embellish the minion’s clothing and accessories
4.Add one or two googly eyes
5.Glue oval shape cut out to craft stick (handle for Minion puppet)
6.Cut out a large square in the trifold poster 17″ wide by 15 1/2″ high (this is tricky and should be done by adult)
7.Design and embellish your Minion Theater- cut out curtains, trees, sun, flowers, or whatever you want and paste to the poster board
The children had a blast making Minions and designing their outfits and accessories!
Here is an example of the stage the children made with the trifold poster board. They added curtains, trees, and sunshine to theirs.
The kiddos used the new Bounty with Despicable Me 3 print napkins to wipe the extra glue residue on their puppets and countertop…With these adorable new prints on Bounty paper towels and napkins, the kiddos were MORE than happy to help clean up the mess!
Just in time for Despicable Me 3 now in theaters (and rated PG), Bounty with new Despicable Me 3 prints are in stores nationwide featuring the ever-mischievous Minions! The limited-edition prints are available in Paper Towel and Quilted Napkins and pack a punch of color and fun that only the Minions can deliver.
Are you looking for things to do with your kiddos this summer? Well, you don’t have to travel far for some fun.
The Kaleidoscope in OC is offering free kid events on Tuesdays from 11:30 12:30. Below is a list of upcoming activities that your little ones will enjoy!
Summer Schedule
Tues., July 11 Bubble Show
Tues., July 18 Games Master
Tues., July 25 Lego Playtime
Tues., August 1 Cartoonist
Tues., August 8 Carnival
The Kaleido-Kids Carnival on August 8 will include inflatables, games, a juggler, a stilt walker, face painting and a balloon artist. Tickets are $1 each, $5 for six, $10 for 15, and $2 for a “Spin to Win”. Guests who bring a new toy (no guns please) or new backpack to donate to Make-A-Wish will receive six game tickets and a “Spin to Win,” a chance to win prizes.
Also on Tuesdays and Wednesdays throughout summer, Edwards Kaleidoscope Stadium 10 is hosting its annual Summer Movie Express, which features family movies (rated G or PG) for only $1 admission per person. The movies are shown on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10am from June 20 to August 16.
photo credit to Kaleidoscopephoto credit to Kaleidoscope
Free face painting, balloon art, along with games, inflatables, a DJ and more, are part of the fun at the annual Kaleido-Kids Carnival to benefit Make-A- Wish Orange County and Inland Empire.
Have a great summer!
Kaleidoscope Address 27741 Crown Valley Pkwy, Mission Viejo, CA 92691 Phone: 949.542.4417
I am a Pizzaterian, you know when you only eat pizza…
We are serious pizza lovers in my home, and last month we checked out Fresh Brothers in Newport Beach. This family friendly spot is a new favorite of ours, and my fam bam is raving about it…
I love throwing parties and gatherings in my home, but honestly the cooking and cleaning is a pain. I recently learned that Fresh Brothers offers convenient pizza parties.
I would LOVE for you to check this place out with your family and friends, so I am giving away a pizza party for eight kiddos. Enter the Rafflecopter below by August 9th!
Hosted: Thank you Fresh Brothers for inviting us to try your amazing pizza and other awesome menu items. All opinions are my own.
The staff at Fresh Brothers is warm and friendly. As soon as we walked in the restaurant ,we felt very welcomed.
The fresh vegetable pizza is crazy good. You can choose your own crust with green peppers, onions, mushrooms, and green & black olives.
I scarfed down the meatball sliders. They were served in a warm Hawaiian bun. They also have salads, tasty chicken wings, soft drinks, and beer.
These warm cinnamon rolls came straight from the oven. The warm icing melted on the roll and in my mouth.. Seriously yummm and another MUST-TRY on the menu.
Host a pizza party at Fresh Brothers
Fresh brothers is an awesome spot for birthdays, graduation party, and /or end-of-season team parties…
Here’s an example of activities offered for kids parties: (customized parties available upon request)
Kids get a Fresh Brother’s pizza box, plus stickers, markers, and crayons to decorate it with.
Kids make their own kid-size pizza, anyway they want to (so long as it’s edible).
Off the pizzas go into the oven, and when they’re ready, we put them in the boxes they decorated and bring them out.
Everybody gets dough to play with, plus a one-of-a-kind “I Made My Own at Fresh Brothers” T-shirt, too.
Fun? They’ll eat it up. I know where I’m hosting my next party…
My son and his friends enjoyed decorating their pizza boxes.
This mini chef truly enjoyed creating his own pizza!
How adorable is this t-shirt?
We had a blast at Fresh Brothers with our friends, and we know you will to!
Newport Beach, Laguna Niguel, Newport Mesa, Irvine Harvard Place, and Irvine Market Place
I would LOVE for you to check this place out! Enter the the Rafflecopter below to win a party for eight kiddos!
Restrictions: Must be used within the next year. Good for up to 8 kids. Prize will be fulfilled by FreshBrothers Pizza. One prize per household. Must be used at the Newport Beach or Laguna Niguel location.
This new threequel hits theaters June 30th, and will not disappoint moviegoers!
Family is everything… I am the youngest of six siblings and we are all different. We argue, we disagree, but we love each other. In this new film, there is a long lost relative joining Gru’s fam bam. He’s rich, funny, and loving. He’s nothing like his villain brother, but he fits in and he is the missing piece to their family puzzle.
Thank you Universal Pictures for opportunity to interview the Despicable Me 3 cast. All opinions are my own.
Photo Credit to Universal Pictures
This new movie is full of surprises and Minion shenanigans!
Illumination, who brought moviegoers Despicable Me and the biggest animated hits of 2013 and 2015, Despicable Me 2 and Minions, continues the story of Gru, Lucy, their adorable daughters Margo, Edith and Agnes -and the Minions in Despicable Me 3.
After he is fired from the Anti-Villain League for failing to take down the latest bad guy to threaten humanity, Gru finds himself in the midst of a major identity crisis. But when a mysterious stranger shows up to inform Gru that he has a long-lost brother- a brother who desperately wishes to follow in his twin’s despicable footsteps- one former super-villain will rediscover just how good it feels to be bad…
Here is the insider scoop and some excerpts from my interviews with Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, and Pharrell Williams.
Question:
“I loved the scene where you had to explain that maybe–or you almost explained that there weren’t unicorns. And I just wondered if you could talk about other times when you’ve had to manage the expectations for your kids, or producers or anybody.”
Mr. Steve Carell:
“Yes, I think it’s something that every parent has to navigate. And one of the dilemmas, I think–and Father’s Day is coming up, so I’m being reminded this week of all the foibles of being a dad–is telling them the truth, because I always want to tell my kids the truth. And sometimes when you try to couch the truth in something less than the truth, it doesn’t come out as the truth.
And I think sometimes we worry that our kids aren’t as resilient as they are and that they can handle it, and it’s–that
it’s better that they ultimately understand, you know, the truth of something. I think there’s a way to finesse that without scaring them or hurting them, but–or hurting them as much.
But I guess what I like about that scene is that he ultimately has to just tell his daughter the truth. And it’s really painful, but ultimately more painful for him than it is for her.”
Photo credit to Universal Pictures
In this new adventure, Gru discovers he has a twin brother. Carell voices both Gru and his brother Dru. His voice transition is flawless. Dru’s personality is distinct from his brother, unlike Gru he was raised by his father.
Kristn Wigg’s character changes from super spy to a caring involved mother. We love her!
Question:
“You kind of answered my question, but do you also get any kind of input as to stories? Since it’s like your second and your third movie, do–you know, when they approach you guys to do another one of these, do they kind of come in, “What do you think for your characters,” and things like that?’
Ms. Kristen Wiig:
“I mean, no, but only because they do such a great job writing the scripts and they’ve got such amazing writers and animators. It’s–we’re happy to just sort of like do a trust fall into these films because we’re in such good hands.
We don’t–I mean, they’re collaborative in the sense of, like, lines sometimes. We can play and do different versions, or they’ll ask if we have an idea for something. But for the most part, you know, we’re just sort of doing what’s there.”
Kristen’s character is upbeat and loving. She’s absolutely adorable…
Photo credit to Universal Pictures
This new adventure is full of unexpected twists and turns… My son’s favorite part of the film was when Gru and his twin brother embarked on a journey as villains. We laughed out loud while watching this movie. This film is great for the entire family.
The soundtrack in the film is sensational… In my interview with Pharrell, I was curious to know about the creative process and how this remarkable man comes up with his material.
Question:
“Hi, my name is Angela Camacho. I’m with Queen Bee Latina. Now, I noticed on the soundtrack–by the way, I want to thank you for such an upbeat–as a mom, I really appreciate music like that. My son’s 10, and we have played the CD over and over in the car.”
Mr. Pharrell Williams:
“Wow.”
Question:
“But in terms of the creative process, now is–I noticed you write a lot of the songs, particularly Fun, Fun, Fun. We love that. I mean, it’s a great song. What–can you tell me about the creative process? Is this you on your own? Do you collaborate? What’s the creative process like for you when you write your music?”
Mr. Pharrell Williams:
“For me–yes, I did it on my own. But I think more than anything else, it’s just about, like, sort of zoning out and making sure that, like, anything that I’m contributing is going to add to the vision of the director, ’cause when you’re working on an animation film they need no distractions.
Like, if the color is off and you’re watching it and you start asking questions, then it doesn’t work. So, everything has to be acutely executed and has to go along with the intention of what the director wants, because there’s like an emotional flow. And so, when you’re meant to feel down, you’re meant to feel down. When you’re meant to feel up, you’re meant to feel up. And no matter how good you think a song is, if it is a disruption from what the director wants, they’re not going to use it.
And so, for me, I was given a lot of guidelines and parameters and expectations of what they may want. And that–that’s been really fun for me. I wouldn’t have written any of these songs if it weren’t for these films and what the moments in the films required. So, it’s really cool.
It’s like–I’m more like a Mr. Magoo. I’m just following–just walking forward, and the only thing I have in–at that very moment is my instinct. You know, it’s kind of like a constant flow of curveballs. But after a while, you start to enjoy your
ability to still hit the ball, not knowing it’s coming at you. So, that’s what it’s like.”
Pharrell is a true artist, and gave me the chills when he spoke about his music.
Photo credit to Universal Pictures
Don’t miss out on the fun. Go see this film with your kiddos!
Say “Aloha” to the Minions. Despicable Me 3 hits theaters June 30th!
Last week we hit the red carpet for “The Beguiled” movie premiere in Los Angeles, California. The hashtag of the night was #VengefulBitches. It was no surprise because this new juicy thriller is disturbing, provocative, and suspenseful…
Directed by Sofia Coppola, this drama takes place in Virginia during the Civil War. A young girl ventures out into the woods to collect mushrooms and finds a wounded Union soldier under a tree. At first, the film feels much like a historical drama, then this hair-raising story takes unexpected twists and turns.
This new thriller hits select theaters June 23rd.
Thank you Focus Features for inviting us to The Beguiled Movie Premiere. All opinions are my own.
The Beguiledis an atmospheric thriller from acclaimed writer/director Sofia Coppola. The story unfolds during the Civil War, at a Southern girls’ boarding school. Its sheltered young women take in an injured enemy soldier. As they provide refuge and tend to his wounds, the house is taken over with sexual tension and dangerous rivalries, and taboos are broken in an unexpected turn of events.
Photo credit to Focus Features
Quentin Tarantino and other Hollywood celebs showed up to the premiere to support Coppola’s new film. “The Beguiled” is a recreation of the 1971 film, originally starring Clint Eastwood.
Producer Youree Henley said, “It’s a really fun movie to watch especially with an audience. When people feel like they are given permission collectively to laugh, or sigh, or to feel that experience. It’s very quiet sometimes and then it gets very broad in the best sense.”
We laughed, cringed, and gasped while watching the film. The story took us on an emotional voyage, much like Henley described in our interview.
Photo credit to Focus Features
Miss Martha (Nicole Kidman), is elegant and poised. She reluctantly helps the wounded solider. Kidman’s beauty and demeanor transforms as her attraction grows for McBurney.
Photo credit to Focus Features
Corporal McBurney’s (Colin Farrell) character is rugged, charming, and magnetic much like Eastwood in the original film. The attractive soldier has an thick Irish brogue. He distracts the girls from their daily routine, which causes disruption in the school.
Edwina (Kirsten Dunst) portrays a quiet composed teacher who also falls hard for the Union Soldier. She is determined to be by his side.
Alicia (Elle Fanning) is a young wild seductress. Things definitely heat up with Elle and McBurney, and the love triangle becomes chaotic and extremely complicated.
Emma Howard (Emily) looked gorgeous in red at the premiere. This is her first feature film.
As the story unfolds, these young girls reveal a dark vindictive side. Addison Riecke is sweet “Marie” in the film.
The six pound pie baked by Chef Casey Thompson was the perfect dessert for “The Beguiled” themed dinner party.
Last week, my son and I love enjoyed a memorable date night at AMC theater in Downtown Disney. This special screening was hosted by Autotrader.
Cars 3 has hit theaters and will not disappoint fans!
Cruz Ramirez (voice of Cristela Alonzo), is a new spicy character in the film- love her! McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson), and Cruz ride along together on an epic adventure. This new threequel is full of surprises that you don’t want to miss!
BIG Thank you Autotrader for hosting a Cars 3 movie night. All opinions are my own.
About Cars 3 Blindsided by a new generation of blazing-fast racers, the legendary Lightning McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) is suddenly pushed out of the sport he loves. To get back in the game, he will need the help of an eager young race technician, Cruz Ramirez (voice of Cristela Alonzo), with her own plan to win, plus inspiration from the late Fabulous Hudson Hornet and a few unexpected turns. Proving that No. 95 isn’t through yet will test the heart of a champion on Piston Cup Racing’s biggest stage! Directed by Brian Fee (storyboard artist “Cars,” “Cars 2”), produced by Kevin Reher (“A Bug’s Life,” “La Luna” short) and co-produced by Andrea Warren (“LAVA” short), “Cars 3” is now in theaters!
This is a great movie for the entire family… Go see Cars 3 in theaters!
About Autotrader
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School is FINALLY out for summer and my family and I are soaking in the SoCal sun. We are always looking for adventure, and fortunately we don’t have to travel far for some good ol’ fun… Earlier this week we headed to Knott’s Berry Farms Ghost Town ALIVE and we watched this shabby old town come to life! There’s lots to do in this creaky old town, so get your favorite boots on and cowboy hat and head to Knott’s for some fun!
This summer, the story continues a year after the notorious Mayfield Gang escaped the custody of Sheriff Wheeler. Word around town is the Mayfield’s have been spotted back in Calico and the townsfolk are in need of some help in capturing the bandits and keeping the town safe. Ghost Town Alive! will offer guests a firsthand experience to play an important part in this unfolding story of the wild west, with specific tasks and activities and an essential role as an honorary citizen of Calico.
Photo Credit To Knott’s Berry Farm
Here are 5 reasons to make your way to Knott’s Ghost Town Alive this summer!
Calico Saloon Show- Calico Saloon
This country show is entertaining and hilarious!
2.Wild West Stunt Show-Wagon Camp
At the Wagon Camp Stage, Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies mount their toe tappin’, knee-slappin’, gut-bustin’ country comedy show that had my family clamoring for more!
This action packed show is full of surprises!
During your visit make sure to:
Vote for the Mayor in the town election
Meet the prospector and his trusty burro and Brutus
Register to become an official citizen of Calico
Draw up hand-made wanted posters of your favorite bandit
Get a handlebar or walrus mustache applied at the Barbershop
Try your luck at a game of cards with the sneaky Sheriff
Lock up the bandits in the town patty wagon
Visit the Livery Stable to meet the talented equestrian team of horses and more!
Photo Credit To Knott’s Berry Farm
3. Snoopy’s Magnificent Magical Revue
Our favorite dog and his gang will mystify you with their magic. And who knows, guests might find themselves part of the act!
Photo Credit To Knott’s Berry Farm
4. Hoedown
Do you like to dance? If so, shake your tail feather at the hoedown…Yee haw!
Photo Credit To Knott’s Berry Farm
5. Circus of Wonders
This sensational “Traveling Circus” is a MUST-SEE. Our jaws dropped when we witness death defying acrobatics. (30 minutes long)
These little bandits had a blast at Knott’s Ghost Town ALIVE… Visit Ghost Town ALIVE now through September 4th!