chrisbishop5000 Reviews

Pocahontas 2: Journey to a New World (1998) (V) (1998 Video)

Unsuitable for little girls who loved the original film

[4/10 · 18 August 2012]

Disney had been criticised for sugar-coating the legend of American Princess Pocahontas in 1995. They had obviously since taken the criticisms on board as proved right here in this direct-to-video sequel and I seriously wouldn't recommend this title for very young viewers. This just goes to show how right Disney were to fictionalize the true story because while this sequel retains Pocahontas's adorable animal friends, the same looks, same backdrop, more songs and yes more fiction this sequel is truer to the historic legend and, certainly for a child, is quite disturbing. In the first film, Governor John Ratcliffe is portrayed as greedy, pompous and mean but here he is pure evil! He is nastier than ever and guess who he's out to get next! Yes, I'm afraid it's Pocahontas! Upon her arrival in England, he abuses her, torments her and even stops at nothing to get her killed and his plan in doing so couldn't be more sick! There is even a sequence where Ratcliffe humiliates her at the royal ball and then if that's not bad enough... we see bear-baiting!!! King James I is portrayed here as cruel and arrogant (he too plays a part in torturing Pocahontas) and it begs the question; was the real King James I like that? Pocahontas does triumph in the end, overcoming all the despicable prejudice she had received by the English, wiping out Ratcliffe, uncovering all his deadly lies, confronting King James, discovering that John Smith is not dead and also finding a love, this time for life.

If your children liked the original 1995-cartoon, don't expose them to this (especially if the child is below 11 years old) as it contains mild language, torture and some distressing scenes.

Pocahontas (I) (1995)

Historically inaccurate?... Who cares? This is Disney!

[9/10 · 18 August 2012]

This film does not do the expected job of transporting you back to the day when this historic legend really happened back in the early 1600s, instead, true to Disney form, it unravels yet another fairytale just with a Native American makeover. True there are Native American backdrops, some Native American music and, of course, Native American people but has been dusted with typical Disney fairytale magic and is not to be used as reference to the true story if you want it told accurately. But it wouldn't be Disney to bring the legend to life as such but to bring it to fairytale and fictional twists. Pocahontas' pets Meeko the raccoon and Flit the hummingbird would never have existed in true life, would they? Neither would Grandmother Willow. This was to be suitable for kids as well as grown-ups so Disney did their stuff and the result is very positive yet very underrated. The movie has received major criticism for its inaccuracy. Pocahontas and John Smith are lovers here and history states that they probably weren't at all and it is a known fact that Pocahontas was, in real life, much younger than in her Disney depiction (and not half as beautiful) and John Smith was much, much older than the handsome young man he is depicted to be here but what did the critics expect the film to contain - serious violence, serious war scenes, Pocahontas being held captive for a long time, Pocahontas being murdered at just 21? It'd be ordeal of a film experience for children and here we have a beautiful love story symbolizing the triumph of peace over war; plus brilliant songs, a haunting music score, lush animation and well-selected voice talents.

As it is based on a true story, there is some drama here that could never be taken away, even from a Disney adaptation. Also, unlike other Disney fairy tales, we have a sad ending, a very sad ending. If I told you the ending I'd be telling! So you'll have to watch and find out. It is definitely worth your time - it isn't all doom and gloom and adults might also like it.

The AristoCats (1970)

Everybody - in this movie - wants to be a cat!

[12 October 2011]

I think that this is based on a French story but I know neither the title nor the story itself.

Never before in this world have I ever seen such a loved and overprotected family of cats! Their wealthy owner is a former opera singer and she is almost never seen not holding and obsessing over them wherever she is! She can never stop cuddling them - even while dancing with an admirer! "Meow, meow!" they should say (in English "put me down, woman!"). She is madly obsessed with her cats and it doesn't end there... she even inherits her will to the cats! What would they benefit from lots and lots of money, being pets? It isn't just Madame who has this burning obsession of the cats; there's Frou-Frou the horse and even a MOUSE, for heaven's sake! Those cats are treated like and are regarded as royalty! Now I think people are too hard on the film's 'villain' Edgar the butler; he is overjoyed to hear that Madame will inherit her fortune to him - until he hears that the cats will get the money first and and poor Edgar is dismayed, especially knowing he'll die long before the family does. Like I said, how will a fortune benefit cats? He plans to catnap them and later drown them - how could he turn the idea down when it's so easy to accomplish?! Even if it is done out of greed?

He doesn't drown them thanks to the antics of a duo of hound dogs and so begins the classy Duchess and her three fiery kittens' adventure as they find their way back home. Along the way, they meet Abraham de Lasey Guisuppe Casey Thomas O'Malley, a lovable alley-cat who falls tail over heels for Duchess, two well-to-do English geese whose constant hysterical laughter never fails to cheer me up on a blue day and Abraham de Lacey Giusppe Casey Thomas O'Malley's best friend Scat Cat and his gang of alley-cats. What will Edgar do when he is dismayed to find that the cats managed to return home? You'll have to watch and find out because this movie is fun and vivacious! Full of sentiment, laughter, adventure and jazzy music... "I'm ready maestraw!" Ha ha, I find that so funny. The female kitten Marie says it and it's just such an iconic quote.

Certified U and suitable for children of all ages with no violence, sex/nudity or bad language - 100% clean!

I'm the reviewer! I'll decide when the it's the end of the review... it's the end of the review! Ha ha!

Stand by Me (1986)

"Stand by Me" is Stood by me Always!

[2 October 2011]

Earlier this afternoon on Channel 5, I had the great pleasure in watching 1980s classic "Stand By Me". It was just as perilous and as adventurous as I expected and I give two thumbs up for this fantastic movie! Want specific words to describe the film; magnificent, powerful, adventurous, sometimes dark, suspenseful, American, touching and full of danger and that's what I love about the whole thing - people living dangerously; anything or anywhere humdrum ain't for me! I like living dangerously but obviously not quite as dangerously as our four leading teen-aged boys who venture forth to find the body of a dead person. I knew one of them was rather a wimp on remembering the back of a DVD cover but I can never remember the cast names as this was my first viewing but I do know that one of those boys was River Phoenix - GOD, was he gorgeous!! - who is no longer with us; dying of a drugs overdose in 1993 at a painful 23 years old.

The film runs for almost an hour and a half (100 minutes including commercials on Channel 5) and is certified 15, containing frequent moderate bad language, brief street violence and some strong threat. Sorry kids, you miss out!

Come Dine with Me (2005– )

"Come dine with me?"... No way!

[1/10 · 23 September 2011]

This is one of the most irritating, cocky, brash, exasperating TV shows ever! My mum loves it and it's just finished on Channel 4 (sarcastically) but, fear not, I'm writing this review on a Friday and tomorrow, as always on Channel 4 on a Saturday late afternoon, multiple episodes of the show are broadcast (but thankfully we're all out tomorrow and so we'll probably miss it - YIPPEE!!!

It's such a lovely idea which makes it even more of a shame that it is so god-damned ANNOYING! I feel like pulling my hair out when I so much as catch snippets of this programme and, do you know the most annoying bit of the show? DAVE LAMB!!!!!!! He never appears to know what "shut up" means nor how to! He's enormously annoying and, I'd say, what his active mouth needs is a strip of duck-tape - JUST so I can regain sanity for a little while! A very, very poor television programme which had long overstayed its welcome! I'm surprised the show saw its first month running!

Ponyo (2008)

A Hans Christian Andersen fairytale retold in lush oriental beauty!

[14 August 2011]

I watched this film on DVD yesterday with my sister and I fell in love with it. It's heartwarming and romantic and full of lush colours and I do hope Hans Christian Andersen will look down from the heavens upon this Japanese creation and smile with a warm heart.

The romantic leads focus on a couple of young children as opposed to "The Little Mermaid". When you see Ponyo as a "goldfish", you just want to love her and take her up in your arms and her 5-year-old human boyfriend felt nothing other than those things when he saw her. As he takes care of her, a tender romance starts to form as she requests to be human too.

What I adore about this film is that there is virtually no heartache whatsoever contained - nobody tries to separate Ponyo and her boyfriend and the importance of family is rampant.

I'm putting two thumbs up for this movie and I'd put up more if I had more than two (which would be a bit disturbing).

Toy Story (1995)

One of a kind! - the first computer-animated film and a touching story of friendship

[10/10 · 22 February 2011]

This movie is just awesome! Bearing in mind that this was a film from 1994/95, the quality of the realistic 3D animation is stunning and what a perfect way to start a new era! Just as a new form of animation comes to life, a vast number of toys magically come to life when their child-owner Andy is out of the room. Maybe that's a true-to-life symbolisation! From the word go, every single one of those toys have become so famous and iconic. Argos (especially), Toys R Us, Amazon, Woolworths and more have never, since the film's 1995-release, been without stock of them! Like it says in the summary, it's a heart-warming story as well as a funny, super-cool movie about a pull-string ragdoll (Woody) whose popularity is short-lived as Andy gets a Buzz Lightyear action figure for his birthday as a result of new electronic toys hitting the market proving to be better than a just a ragdoll. Understandably, Woody is jealous of Buzz and can't stand his guts. He's an arrogant, self-interested toy but, more than anything else, an total, utter idiot.

All the toys have their own personalities; there's Little Bo Peep who has a soft spot for Woody, Slinky Dog who likes Woody and is very friendly, Rex the world's most IRRITATING dinosaur ever, RC, the RC who revs up and down rather than talks and then there's Mr Potato Head and he is VILE! So, so mean and frequently rude. He seems to have some kind of vendetta against Woody for no reason I can think of. Then, he creates his very own campaign to destroy Woody in order to avenge Buzz when Woody's the one who has felt lonely and unwanted for so long! You'd think it'd put children off the authentic Mr Potato Head by Playskool! Oh yes and there's one more toy I didn't mention - Lenny, the toy-sized pair of binoculars. He was voiced by Joe Ranft who contributed in the story development of "Toy Story" and is now sadly no longer on this earth. He was killed when the speed of his car went beyond control, crashed through the wall of a bridge and plunged into the river below. The Pixar team miss him terribly...

JOE RANFT 1960-2005

An Extremely Goofy Movie (2000 Video)

Goofy! You're bang out of order!

[6/10 · 16 October 2010]

He's learnt nothing from the original 1995-movie! When his now adult son Max sets off for a new life of independence with his pals PJ and Bobby at college, Goofy can't resist going with him! Goofy is suffering with the Empty-Nest Syndrome and this affects work, so, hey presto, he'd fired.

The point is that Max is TRYING to get away from his selfish dad but Goofy can only focus on his own relief of not suffering a year without his 'little Maxie'. At first, Max is (too) tolerant of having Goofy with him, understanding how sad he must've felt. But there are more embarrassing situations Goofy creates to humiliate his son; Gets him out of bed very early in the morning, embarrasses him in a clothes store, getting him to clean up the room with spades and just as Max offers a pretty girl a seat next to him, Goofy rushes to take it before her and Max's new-found enemy Brad offers her a seat instead! In time, Goofy gets romantically involved with the college librarian which doesn't fail to keep him out of his son's hair and does all three of them a lot of good but things soon take a turn for the worst. Max feels increasingly harassed by his obsessive father and is furious with him for beating him in the College X-Games (this wouldn't have happened if Goofy never went to the college).

"OH DON'T YOU GET IT?!! I AM TRYING TO GET AWAY FROM YOU! I'M NOT A LITTLE KID ANYMORE!! NOW JUST LEAVE ME ALONE AND GET YOUR OWN LIFE!" Goofy, if you were my dad I'd disown you! Any road, this movie shows what medicine Goofy needs for his Empty-Nest Syndrome; a woman in his life! After so long, Goofy finds getting his mind off Max less painful as he and Sylvia head off into the sunset fora new life of their own.

A Goofy Movie (1995)

It's hard to be cool - AND LIVE A LIFE - when your dad is Goofy!

[9/10 · 16 October 2010]

The tag-line couldn't be more appropriate! It IS hard to be cool when your dad is Goofy! Lucky he's not my father or yours, eh? Poor young Max! Goofy's cool dude 14-year-old son Max will go as far as taking it upon himself to ruin a school assembly by the principal to impress his bashful girlfriend Roxanne (Principal Mazor is the principal's name - WHY???!!! Something a little more fictitious would've been better I'd say). Even when he's in big trouble with Mazor he can only think of the fact that he's failed to impress Roxanne - he thinks! She loved his dance on the stage and would love to go on a date with him!... Not if Goofy's got anything to do with it! He is completely obsessed with his son 'Maxie' as he always patronizingly calls him and whisks him away from home to go on a holiday, against Max's will! Goofy doesn't give a toss about Max and his love-life and now Max is very much likely to lose Roxanne! To the end, Goofy is totally selfish and even reduces to taking enjoyment in cruelly humiliating Max at the most worn-down theme park I've ever seen! Luckily enough, the opportunity to break free of Goofy's clutches occurs when he goes to sleep in the car and Max has the map right in front of him! Max quietly makes alterations to the map taking them both to Los Angeles where Max intends to join a famous pop-star to make for a good enough excuse for missing his date with Roxanne. What else was the poor lad supposed to do?! I'd have done the same! So when Goofy finds out about Max's plan by looking at the map himself, he is in no position whatsoever of feeling angry with his son!...

GOOFY: You lied to me! MAX: I had to - you were ruining my life!

Why should anybody have their lives being ruined?! Anyway it all ends happily because Max both builds a bond with Goofy and finally wins his girlfriend over!

Carousel (1956)

The film is "Carousel" - the plot is a Roller-coaster!

[9/10 · 26 July 2010]

You might think that with a title like "Carousel" you have a cheerful, light-hearted film - and it is in parts but other parts are tragic, sad and even violent.

It's the story of handsome but arrogant and selfish casanova Billy Bigelow (Gordon MacRae) and his developing romance with a smitten young lady called Julie but the carousel-owner Mrs Mullin is after him too (even though she looks a little too old for him). But Billy marries Julie and just when a happy ending was on its way with a baby girl, disaster strikes. When caught stealing aboard a ship Billy tries to escape resulting in a fatal accident. Both his women were at his side as he was died. Years later, his daughter has grown up and is part of a great multi-talented musical number then tragedy strikes for her; she kisses a funfair guy and everybody laughs at her. Billy was hardly a gentleman when he was alive so he has been given a single day to redeem himself and communicate with his daughter, urging her to do well in life.

The musical numbers are thoroughly outstanding; the dancers were incredible and the songs were nice but a few of them were frankly rather forgettable with no particular rhythm. I do hear that the play was longer than this movie; that's a shame, then there'd be more to the story.

"Carousel" is simply a beauty in the collection of Rodgers and Hammerstein's musicals.

Sadly, the star Gordon MacRae died of mouth-cancer and an attack of pneumonia at the not-so-old age of 64 (1921-1986).

It is certified U for Universal but does contain some mild language, violence and one distressing scene.

Alice in Wonderland (I) (2010)

The Darkest, Most Dramatic Alice in Wonderland Ever!

[9/10 · 13 March 2010]

I'd think twice before you get your child excited about a new "Alice in Wonderland" movie with the same White Rabbit, the same mad tea party, the same grinning Cheshire Cat and the same bad-tempered Queen of Hearts they've grown to love. Although these same characters are in this 2010 version, there is a major twist and, to young children, it is not a very friendly one! Instead of the 9/10-year-old little girl we all know, Alice is almost as old as me (however, like me, she's in her second childhood). Surely, youngsters won't want to see Alice severely injured by one of the more fierce "Wonderland" characters and this is just one of a series of scenes that would be considered more suitable for more mature people. I saw this movie in 3D this afternoon with my family and we all enjoyed it. Tim Burton has obviously tried his best to retain the world-famous catchphrases and musical poems from the classic book by Lewis Carroll but possibly couldn't resist putting so much of his quirky self into it. Everything is so dramatic in this film; I'm 20 and I found one or two bits scary. I would certify this film a 12A, at least, rather than the given PG classification.

A Christmas Carol (2009)

Let the bells ring out for A Christmas CAROL!!!

[10/10 · 9 December 2009]

This has is without the shadow of a doubt this best film adaptation of the classic Dickens story EVER! Take it from me! The visual effects sparkle like never before. Jim Carrey makes a change and gives us a dark, dramatic character, nothing like all his other previous parts in past films. I went to the Vue cinema in Worcester with my boyfriend Paul today to see this perfectly-made festive movie in 3D. Our special glasses were made of plastic rather than cardboard. I honestly thought I'd get scared seeing it in 3D and knowing how the story itself has its menacing moments but, apart from a few occasions the startled me out of my skin (like the Jacob Marley doorknob), it was fine; perfectly OK for all ages! I loved it! Not a single part was flawed. Well done, Disney!

Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961)

The most beautiful woman in the most beautiful film

[10/10 · 22 November 2009]

My stepfather bought me this movie on DVD earlier today and, like Audrey Hepburn, it's beautiful! She plays the fun-loving Holly Golightly so splendidly and she has the ability to make her character fun-loving but not without class.

What can I say about "Moon River"? It's so moving, I also shed a little tear! To match, here is a moving story that also has a comical side to it. Not ideal for young children but older people will be caught under the spell of this lovely musical film with its delightful humour, touching music, romantic plot, tearful moments and, of course, truly classy elegance. We also hope a happy ending; it's climatic but there is definitely a happy ending, you'll have to watch to find out.

It's so sad that Audrey sadly died in January 1993 of colon cancer at only 63 but her elegance and legacy will never die.

If you want a heart-touching movie overflowing with flawless style, you MUST see this!

Bewitched (1964–1972)

"Bewitched", "Bewitched" YOU HAVE ME IN YOUR SPELL!

[10/10 · 8 November 2009]

The original series began in September/October 1964 starring the beautiful Elizabeth Montgomery as the main character and Dick York as her lover Darrin as well as David White as Darrin's boss, Agnes Moorehead as Samantha's mischievous mother Witch Endora and more. All these actors remained in the show until its finish in 1972 - with the exception of Dick York who had suffered spinal problems before the show began and collapsed on set because of these problems in 1969. I think the show also finished because of Elizabeth quitting due to feeling typecast; wouldn't you if you had people getting you to twitch your nose for years?! I think the visual effects are simply BEWITCHING! The sets, the costumes and the acting are simply remarkable! As you'd expect, Sam isn't a wicked witch - a good witch who uses her powers despite her husband's disapproval. Her voice seems to differ throughout the series. Originally, it's sweet and fairy-tale like and later sounds a lot sharper and more high-pitched. Elizabeth Montgomery is a woman that I actually find quite gorgeous; she's not bad.

I must say, her strapping husband Darrin really does whine sometimes; I mean seriously! On the other hand, having his house full of enchanted beings, things float in midair and a mother-in-law who makes his life a chore can't be easy.

Endora is so funny! She causes trouble very frequently and stops at nothing to split up Samantha and Darrin (even though, in the end, her devious plans always fail). Apparently, she calls Darrin by his name 8 times in the show's entire 8-year-run, maybe once each year.

I bought the complete fourth series on DVD last year and I'm expecting from Woolworths.co.uk the complete original series in the post.

Sadly, all (except Erin Murphy as little Tabitha) the cast are now dead; Elizabeth Mongomery (d.1995), Agnes Moorehead (d.1974), Dick York (d.1992), David White (d.1990), Sandra Gould (d.1999) but they're all with us once again every time the show is watched.

Coraline (2009)

GREAT movie - but could've been more scary!

[6/10 · 31 October 2009]

It's Halloween evening and we've done loads of spooky activities which include watching the new movie "Coraline". Now, if you expect this to be like "Nightmare Before Christmas" then you will be disappointed. It takes at least 40(+) minutes for the plot to darken and have capability to scare. The thing to do is to just bear with it and patiently give the film time to hot itself up because it's quite spooky when it does. Even when it isn't scary, it's good fun to watch. At the same time, though, it's not too scary for children of at least 8.

Coraline is not the gentle, innocent girl you may expect - she's extremely fiery and with spirit.

It's a great film - nice to see it done traditionally with puppets - but not for you if you want to be scared out of your wits. Definitely worth a try though.

Watchdog (1985– )

'Ban' Robinson

[10/10 · 27 September 2009]

It was a surprise to hear that Anne Robinson would return to the show but it begged the question; what'll happen to the current presenters? Sexy Nicky Campbell (who I like to call Sexy Campbell) and pretty Julia Bradbury would leave and I was frankly quite upset when I heard this. They made the show shine and it was so watchable finding out about cheap products and tacky, money-grabbing companies but now everything's changed! Not only are there new presenters but the show itself is also new. It's had a major new-look.

Indeed, Anne's personality is right for "Watchdog" I'm not saying otherwise and, all those years ago up until 2000 when she left, I'd have enjoyed her company when watching the show but when along comes this gorgeous Scottish hunk and a very classy lady who have certainly benefited "Watchdog" immensely I'd say maybe Miss Robinson is now redundant from the show. Bring back Nicky Campbell and Julia Bradbury - they should be presenting it because the show belongs to them!

Britain's Got Talent (2007– )

Brings a glorious, magnificent burst of light to ITV

[10/10 · 30 May 2009]

Well, what can you say about "Britain's Got Talent" other than EXTRAORDINARY!!! Independent Television ought to be so proud of owning this show. I've so enjoyed the show and yet it's ending tonight in about 50 minutes at 9:30.

Last night, Holly Steele (who my sister says is annoying) really grabbed my heart when she ultimately broke down live on stage when she gave it all she got singing "Edelwiess" and I honestly didn't think she'd find the courage to continue her performance and agree to go through to tonight's final but she has - she's a very brave little girl.

Susan Boyle nearly quit? Why?! She seemed to be really enjoying herself last week. Maybe it's because, like Holly, she, too, felt the pressure.

I can't say I know who I'd like to win... I'd say it's a 3-way-tie between Holly, Susan and Aiden: I'll just have to stay tuned with much enthusiasm. However, I'm sure it'd break her heart if Holly doesn't win tonight and mine would break for her.

I must say, Shaun Smith wasn't bad either. I think he's a proper sexy 17-year-old, if I'm to be honest.

Whatever your age, wherever your home (ideally in Great Britain) you must let "Britain's Got Talent" fill your heart - it's an unmissable show that's gripped the entire nation!

Horrid Henry (2006–2021)

CITV's number 1 cartoon series!!!!!!!!

[10/10 · 26 March 2009]

Hoo, hoo, hoo, ha, ha! As soon as I so much as glance at this show I'm in hysterics - IT IS SO FUNNY!!! Horrid Henry (aged about 12) has got the most hilarious and horrid voice that's, if I'm to tell a lie, so, so soothing and done by a WOMAN (Lizzie Waterworth). The things he gets up to are unbelievable and so bad they're fabulous. I know he's nasty to his little brother Perfect Peter (aged about 7) and sometimes attacks him but, to be fair to the star, he completely brings it on himself provoking his big brother and being boastful. I don't know why Horrid Henry and Moody Margaret don't see eye to eye! They're so much alike and I think when it suits them they're work quite well together - a gruesome twosome! Despite all his dirty-work to cover up his actions everything always goes wrong for Horrid Henry; The Birthday episode sees him having a party for the BIRDS and no Lazor-Zap, just when he "Gets Rich Quick" by stealing his mother's perfume and his father's tennis racket and selling Peter he ends up buying all of them back and loses the money, when he plays hookie he ends up nursing his sick mother and Peter and keeping the house clean instead of playing computer games. I suppose that's his comeuppance for being horrid! I love it when at the end of an episode his horrid plans fail and he screams "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" - it's so funny!

Fun and Fancy Free (1947)

It's Party Time!

[10/10 · 7 September 2008]

If you ask me, I think Walt Disney put into this movie more of his cheerful, laid-back nature than any other and I haven't even seen a possible making-of featurette to prove because, currently, I only have this on video which is at least 7 years old now. I think it's fair to say that "Fun and Fancy Free" is exactly what it says on the tin. It opens with a lively chorus singing the title song and I love how when the animations begins to start up the song follows onto Jiminy Cricket (voiced by Cliff Edwards, died 1971, (I think) at 76) singing his own verses, a laid-back, cheerful happy fellow riding on a large leaf in what soon appears to be a vase. In order to cheer up a sad doll missing her mama and a moody teddy Jiminy puts on a vinyl record telling a story...

BONGO: The expressive, vivacious and energetic enthusiasm of narrator Dinah Shore is just unbelievable! Bongo, a former circus bear who had been mistreated by the ring-master, longs to be free and eventually gets his dream! He is befriended by all the forest animals and also falls in love - but will things go smoothly? Give you a clue; "Every deer and every dove has a way of making love but a bear likes to say it with a SLAP"

MICKEY AND THE BEANSTALK: Jiminy finds an invitation to a party across the way and here's who was there; Luana Patten (died 1996, just 57) the hilariously cheeky Charlie McCarthy, the dazed and absent-minded Mortimer Snerd and the man who threw the party Edgar Bergen (died 1978, 75). Edgar Bergen tries to tell a story (in spite of his frustration at Charlie's frequent interruptions and criticisms) of Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy living in poverty leaving Mickey and Goofy miserable and Donald having some violent fits of psychotic rage. Bergen defends him to the end. What about the others? Mickey and Goofy went through it too and they didn't try to murder the family cow! The only way to bring happiness to their home is to fetch an enchanted harp from the castle of a selfish giant but it's an not easy mission because if you can fool Willie the giant you can fool anyone! Can they do it? Mortimer becomes upset at when finally became of the giant and as Edgar tries to comfort him the roof is suddenly torn off by... the giant. Not to eat them but to just pop in. This cartoon musical extravaganza truly did make history in animation; that eye-popping blend of art and live action has been done practically throughout the entire movie. And there's neither bad language nor sex scenes nor violence - just full of Fun and Fancy Free!

Beachcomber Bay (2001–2003)

Cute, traditional and very, very watchable - but sadly expired long ago; no material for 2002+

[6/10 · 20 June 2008]

You know, I remember this children's program being on Channel 5 and also before 2001, IMDb! "Beachcomber Bay" will always remind me of early mornings getting ready for school eating hot-buttered-toast after breakfast - oh what nice memories! I haven't seen it for at least 5 years now but I recall some very good quality puppets dressed in lavish clothes and they were big puppets at that. I think it's a shame that it's no longer on our screens still I can come up with good enough explanations (a guess, just the same); Salty the dog and Bertha the cat squabbled often sometimes driving Jenny mad so mad at one time she bolted through the utmost frustration and also the humour was pretty cheesy (most children's shows are though). It seemed to be quite past its expiry date. Maybe the ratings went down dramatically because of these facts. It never taught children about education or good behaviour. I liked it a lot but I cannot picture others liking it quite so much, not now that there's more up-to-date shows like "Tweenies" and "Lazy-Town" and also "In the Night Garden".

Lady and the Tramp II: Scamp's Adventure (2001 Video)

No Lady nor Tramp: Chav's Troublesome Runaway

[4/10 · 3 April 2008]

If regarded as an independent feature I can't say it's too bad at all but from where I'm standing this sequel and the original "Lady and the Tramp" don't agree with each other! They are two completely different movies with different style, different voice personalities, different narratives and about the only thing that they share with each other is the visuals (e.g. the town-house of Jim Dear, Darling, Lady and Tramp) and none of those have changed.

If you're seeking any kind of continuity years after the release of the original for those memorable songs like "Bella Notte" and "The Siamesse Cats Song" this sequel won't give you any at all! Just about every song has a little pop to it and those good old characters like Jock and Trusty, Jim Dear and Darling and Aunt Sarah and her cats may well be seen but they're seeming to be somehow replaced by new characters, not to mention Peg not appearing at all, whose voices are quite annoying. Even Lady and Tramp don't appear often enough and as for Scamp?! He is so spoilt! And treats his father Tramp with utter disrespect, then runs away with no remorse even after hearing how much he's being missed at home! And they called his shameless getaway an adventure! I'd say Scott Wolf truly brought out the abusive bad boy in Scamp wiping out the typical cute Disney animal. Even the old characters just drive you mad in this; Trusty sounds like Goofy sick in bed, Jock (Jeff-stupid-Bennett) - and his VOICE - sound neither Scottish nor worth hearing! Zap him off as far as possible to free our poor ears from his voice and as for the dumb, feather-brained, EXASPERATING JUNKYARD DOGS!!!!!! Somebody put them down!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"Lady and the Tramp 2" isn't completely bad if you're not already having a tough day but I expect a lot more charm from a sequel to a true classic - Scamp is chavvy, so is his girlfriend Angel and there is a feeble storyline. Still, I think you should try it at least once because, as I say, there are much worse movies around.

Music Land (1935)

Simply Spellbinding Silly Symphony!!!

[10/10 · 10 February 2008]

The imagination that seemed to have been put into this silly symphony is just remarkable! "Music Land", through its groundbreaking animation, seems more like a late '30s/early '40s short, not one from the mid '30s. As a very little child I practically felt magic from it and I still do now at just over 17 years old and 11 months. The characters here are instruments and they play music for voices and if that's not enough for you, a classical island and a jazzy island furiously clash when a violin princess and a young saxophone prince fall in love and a storm breaks out with the use of excellent technology! It's hard to believe that this gripping, fun-filled animated short is a silly symphony - it's just too innovative! And as for the ending, I'll leave that for you to find out. It certainly has a climatic end!

Big Cook Little Cook (2002–2022)

Big Cook Little Cook can cook THEMSELVES

[1/10 · 12 January 2008]

Too right they can! They are complete dopes, they are not funny and the more I hear or see them the more I hate them! I am 17 and I like some children's programs to this day for various reasons. There are others, however, that I loath and this is one of them. My argument is (to poorly produced kiddie shows like this) is that you can entertain youngsters and help them learn without being hopelessly dumb! Here's something else that can't excuse this program; according to IMDb, "Big Cook Little Cook" started in 2003! I think it's fair to say that it would be considered dated and hopeless in 1993! Though I wouldn't have guessed this trash was first broadcast that early, I certainly wouldn't have had 2003 in mind at all. Now... over to the stars Ben and Small; if you yourselves are hungry why don't I cook YOU an obnoxious mushroom cake topped with stale eggs?!

Enchanted (2007)

Thank GOODNESS this came along!!! Get lost Shrek!

[10/10 · 29 December 2007]

Well what can I say? It was so nice to see a fairytale again (a recent cinematic one I mean)! I went to see "Enchanted" at the Odeon Cinema in Hereford and it was just spectacular! It was such a gripping, outstanding concept for a cartoon Fairytale land and the real world to furiously collide (with the help of amazing trick photography). I saw it with my family to see it this afternoon after we had all made up from a row that was just SCOLDING and do you know what? It cheered up all of us not just through the cool comedy but just by looking at "Enchanted" - it is beautiful! I was so pleased that for once in this modern spunky era they used cartoons rather than CGI; they are filled with so much more dedication! "Enchanted" provides us with a fantastical insight on just how different those two worlds are! Giselle is banished from her home and doesn't know how to live life as a proper human being or how to behave in societies such as New York City. But that's not the only thing Giselle is faced with - she also must choose between two men who are both simply adorable; a price or a New York citizen (with a small 6-year-old child). Although the end was quite dramatic and it may not agree with young children, I, being 17, didn't find it at all scary but full of effective adventure so, for me at least, it was increasingly exciting! It was certified PG but I think the classification U would've suited this spellbinding movie better! I recommend it to families everywhere!

The Jungle Book (1967)

BAGHEERA: "It's Not funny!" I agree (to an extent) but that is Not all I think of this film trusst me!

[8/10 · 29 November 2007]

From the very first minute that Walt Disney conceived of "The Jungle Book" he promised for the sakes of general audiences that he'd absolutely Pile Rudyard Kipling's classic book with energetic, toe-tapping, show-stopping music and unforgettable crazy songs though many people around him had doubts for the original novel was apparently quite serious. Throughout his entire career he had proved so many critics and members of his crew wrong, that he Could enhance the familiar yet ageing qualities of the original tellings of many of the world's most beloved classic books by putting his own magical, musical, charming, ambitious nature into them and would then transfer his versions onto film. Not once had he failed to prove the world and the world's opinions wrong in all his life and "The Jungle Book" was no exception. It's got to be his own happiest, most carefree, most musical adventure movie to date! I haven't read the book yet because I don't even have it though I do have a shortened Ladybird book of it but I haven't read that so I can't judge any inaccuracies or changes to the story but I'm positive there are some alterations - all for the best, of course. I must say that Mowgli is quite rebellious here and impudent. He's always running away when things don't go his way, I've noticed he hits and threatens a lot of his friends and yet they still like him! Baloo is - as everyone sees him - so lovable and kind. For the first time in a Disney film, Sterling Holloway provides the voice for a villain - the murderous Kaa the python snake. For a happy-go-lucky cartoon, I think it's unpleasant how a bonkers snake could randomly get a little boy into his deadly coyles (at night at one point), hypnotize him and prepare to eat him! But at least Mowgli gets the last laugh by causing the python to have a knotted tail and shifting him off his tree. My favourite dance number has got to be with King Louis of the Apes in the ancient ruins ("I Wanna Be Like You") and how all the crazy dancing sends the ruins tumbling. My second favourite is "Bare Necessities". In my opinion, the part where the mildly poor comedy comes in most of all is with Colonol Haithi and his elephants and his whiny wife; poor Verna Felton had Winifred the elephant as her final role on film. Colonol Haithi is supposed to be a no-nonsense, snooty leader but my eyes (and ears come to think of it) tell me that he is just a totally absurd loud-mouth. If there is any character in this film who won't stand for any nonsense it's Bagheera! I know that all he really wants is for Mowgli to be safe and therefore return to the man-village but he was certainly a miserable old busybody after the King Louis scene. He had the cheek to break up that special bond between Mowgli and Baloo that so many people have grown to love! Charming! Recently, I bought the twin DVD release of the Platinum Edition of "The Jungle Book" from Woolworths and it was just amazing! Better than most Disney DVDs today (even though they're not bad themselves)