Children’s DVD Reviews and Recommendations.

The school holidays have begun! There will be days during the Easter break where the library will be closed. So if are looking for some entertainments,  why not have a read of my latest reviews of new DVDs: Mary Poppins Returns and The Nutcracker and the four realms.

And some oldies but goodies, Maleficent, (which aired on TV 2 last weekend), and Despicable Me 3, (which aired on TV 3 last weekend).

But you better get your hands on these DVDs quick … before someone else does!

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsDespicable me. 3.

They saved the best for last! Gru, the reluctant antihero of the previous films has come a long way from being a supervillian. He is married to his Anti-Villain league partner, Lucy, an involved father to Margo, Edith and Agnes and is working for the good guys bringing in the bad of the bad. However things go pear-shaped when Gru is fired from the Anti-Villain League for failing to take down the latest bad guy, Balthazar Bratt, a character completely stuck in the 80s with his music and his dance moves and armed with expanding bubble gum as his weapon of choice.  But when a mysterious stranger shows up to inform Gru that he has a long-lost twin 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. Will Gru complete his path back to the dark side?, you have to watch the film to find out.

Overall, a hilarious film! The minions are funnier than before! Agnes’ obsession with unicorns intensifies where she embarks on a quest to find a long lost legendary unicorn… only to end up with a one horned goat, (spoiler) and the showdown or “dance fight” between Gru and Balthazar Bratt, is funny and cheesy.

I rate this movie: 7/10!

image courtesy of amazon.comThe Nutcracker and the four realms.

This it The Nutcracker as you have never seen it before!

Based on the original story and ballet of The Nutcracker, Clara finds her way into a mysterious parallel world. She teams up with a soldier named Philip aka The Nutcracker in search of a key to unlock a box from her late mother. However things take a turn when it is up to Clara to brave the Fourth Realm to find the key and return harmony to the unstable world. Throughout this film, things aren’t always what they seem. You will find yourself wondering what lies is the mystery box, at times second guessing who the true heroes and villains are throughout this film and whether Clara will find what she is truly looking for.

This film is very entertaining and a fresh retelling of the original story and ballet of The Nutcracker.

I rate this movie: 7/10!

image courtesy of amazon.comMaleficent.

This is Sleeping Beauty as you have never seen it! The bad fairy was once a good fairy.

Once upon a time, in a land far, far away, there lived a beautiful, pure-hearted young woman called Maleficent, who had anidyllic life growing up in a peaceable forest kingdom, until one day when an invading army threatens the harmony of the land and she is betrayed by her childhood friend, King Stefan. Bent on revenge, Maleficent places a curse upon Stefan’s newborn infant Aurora. However things take a turn while acting as an unofficial fairy godmother, Maleficent becomes fond of Aurora.

Poor Maleficent experiences conflict, similar to iconic Star Wars villain, Darth Vader, whether being trapped in the dark side is permanent or whether there is still good in her… and she will save the day.

Overall a great (alternative) retelling of  the classic fairy tale Sleeping Beauty.

I rate this movie: 7/10.

Have a look at the trailer to the upcoming sequel: Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, which is scheduled to be released late October 2019.


image courteay of amazon.com

Mary Poppins Returns.

After Mary Poppins departed London, Jane and Michael Banks grew up into loving and responsible adults. When Michael becomes a single father of three children: John, Annabel and George, (named after and is a polar opposite of George Banks), after the death of his wife, Mary Poppins revisits the Cherry Tree Lane home again to try to help Michael and his family cope and move beyond their grief. Time passes quickly for most normal mortals. Mary Poppins has never been normal. Although it’s now the 1930s, she looks exactly the same. Her message to Michael, Annabel, John, George and Ellen, the family’s housekeeper, about enjoying life and loved ones is also still the same, even during hard and uncertain times..

This film is Mary Poppins at its best! With a fresh cast, new songs and additional characters, Mary Poppins Returns is fresh story and promising sequel that also stays true to the original film.

I rate this movie: 7/10.

Happy Birthday… and death day William Shakespeare!

April is the month for celebrating Easter, ANZAC Day and the birth… and death of famous English playwright and poet, William Shakespeare.

This year marks Shakespeare’s, or the Bard of Avon, (assumed) 455th birthday on the 26th of April and 403rd death anniversary on the 23rd April.

 

How to celebrate?

In addition to the traditional birthday party, cake and presents, why not read all about his life, from his early and humble beginnings in Stratford upon Avon, England to conquering the stage in Queen Elizabeth’s court and the Globe Theatre.

image courtesy of sydneticsMuch ado about Shakespeare : the life and times of William Shakespeare : a literary picture book.

Take a peek behind the curtain to discover the boy, the youth, the man behind some of the greatest works of literature. The life and times of William Shakespeare are richly imagined in this unique biography told using quotes from the Bard himself.

image courtesy of sydneticsWilliam Shakespeare : scenes from the life of the world’s greatest writer.

Follow the amazing life of William Shakespeare, vividly described in words and pictures, with graphic dramatisations of Shakespeare’s most famous plays.

image courtesy of syndeticsShakespeare.

Find out how in Eyewitness Shakespeare and discover the fascinating life and times of one of the world’s greatest playwrights. Travel back in time and follow Shakespeare from his birth in the small town of Stratford-upon-Avon to theatre life in 16th century London. Eyewitness reference books are now more interactive and colourful, with new infographics, statistics, facts and timelines, plus a giant pull-out wall chart, you’ll be an expert on Shakespeare in no time. Great for projects or just for fun, learn everything you need to know about Shakespeare.

 

Read and relive your favourite Shakespeare plays. Wellington City Libraries holds a huge array of plays, including The Taming of the ShrewRomeo and Juliet, Twelfth NightAs You Like It and King Lear.

image courtesy of sydneticsimage courtesy of syndetics

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You also might be interested in…

image courtesy of syndeticsShakespeare edited by Marguerite Tassi.

A collection of thirty-one of playwright and poet William Shakespeare’s most famous verses, sonnets and speeches.

He was the world’s greatest playwright, and the English language’s finest writer, Shakespeare is the man the Oxford English dictionary credits as having invented over 1700 common words, and to whom we owe expressions such as ‘fair play’, ‘break the ice’, and ‘laughing stock’. The continued timelessness and genius of his work will be celebrated the world over on his special day.

image courtesy of sydneticsShakespeare retold.

This illustrated volume features seven classic plays by William Shakespeare, retold by E. Nesbit. Shakespeare Retold contains a selection of Shakespeare’s tragedies and comedies, including Twelfth Night, Romeo and Juliet, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, as well as a historical timeline, a list of suggested reading materials, and a short biography of the bard himself.

 

Have some fun with William Shakespeare!

image courtesy of syndeticsPop-up Shakespeare.

“Discover beloved playwright William Shakespeare’s plays and poetry in this spectacular novelty book from the Reduced Shakespeare Company comedy troupe. Featuring dramatic pop-ups and foldouts and loaded with jokes and fascinating facts, this hilariously informative and fully immersive look into the Bard’s world invites you to experience Shakespeare’s works as you’ve never seen them before!” — Back cover.

image courtesy of syndeticsWhere’s Will? : find Shakespeare hidden in his plays.

Each play in this book begins with a summary of the plot and descriptions of the characters. On the following page is a detailed picture showing the setting of the play and within it you can find the characters, William Shakespeare , and a spotted pig.

 

Watch movies inspired by Shakeaspeare’s plays:

image courtesy of amazon.co.ukThe Lion King… inspired by Hamlet.

You can never go wrong with an oldie but a goodie.

Tricked into thinking he caused his father’s death, Simba, a guilt ridden lion cub flees into exile and abandons his identity as the future King. However when the fate of his kingdom is threatened, he is forced to return and take his place as King.

image courtesy of sydneticsGnomeo & Juliet… inspired by Romeo and Juliet.

Caught up in a feud between neighbors, Gnomeo and Juliet must overcome as many obstacles as their namesakes. But with flamboyant pink flamingoes and epic lawnmower races, can this young couple find lasting happiness?


Also check out the sequel, Sherlock Gnomes.image courtesy of syndetics

Garden gnomes, Gnomeo and Juliet, recruit renowned detective Sherlock Gnomes to investigate the mysterious disappearance of other garden ornaments.

 

Happy Easter from Wellington City Libraries!

Happy Easter from Wellington City Libraries!

We hope you enjoy the long, and hopefully sunny weekend with your friends and family – and enjoy all the yummy Easter eggs and hot cross buns!!


Libraries in Wellington are closed on Good Friday, (Friday 19th April), Easter Day, (Sunday 21st April) and Easter Monday, (Monday 22nd April).

We are open usual hours on Saturday 20th April and after the Easter break.  However all libraries will be closed again on ANZAC Day, (Thursday 25th April.)


We have an amazing collection of books on Easter – both a mixture of craft books and stories that will keep you amazed, entertained and give you ideas for Easter goodies!

Also check out another round of top 5 DVDs to watch over the Easter break!

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsEaster.

This book explores the festival of Easter and the story behind it and features six simple origami projects for your own festive fun!

image courtesy of syndeticsEaster stories by Enid Blyton.

Head off on an adventure this Easter with the world’s best-loved storyteller. From the boy who helps a lamb in trouble to the fairies hidden inside Easter Eggs, excitement and magic are never far away in this collection of stories to read and share.

image courtesy of syndeticsPete the cat : big Easter adventure.

Pete the Cat is appointed as an unwitting helper to a troubled Easter Bunny and races to deliver eggs before time runs out.

image courtesy of syndeticsSanta Claus vs the Easter Bunny.

Santa has it so easy: a workforce of elves to make the presents, a team of reindeer to deliver them, even a hi-spec factory! The Easter Bunny has to make and wrap all the chocolate eggs in his garden shed, and deliver them himself on foot. No wonder you often find them thrown all over the place in your garden! Now Bunny has had enough – he hatches a genius, chocolately plan with unexpected results.

image courtesy of syndetics10 minute Easter crafts.

Using readily available, seasonally related materials, this series is packed full of fun crafts for special occasions. The projects are explained in easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions, and are perfect for teachers looking for original ideas as well as time-poor parents. In 10 Minute Crafts: Easter, children can learn how to make an Easter bonnet, fluffy Easter chicks, a sparkling shower hanging and cute bunny egg cups for their Easter eggs, along with lots of other great Easter crafts for kids.

 


image courtesy of syndetics

A room full of chocolate.

Grace’s fun-loving Mum has found a lump. Her north London world of sleepovers, tap dancing and playing the clarinet fall apart when she is sent to live with her grumpy old granddad on his farm in Yorkshire while her mother goes into hospital to get better. Grace misses her mother so much it hurts, and doesn’t quite understand what is happening to her. And things go from bad to worse when she starts school and becomes the bullies’ latest target. But Grace is no longer alone when she meets Rainbow Girl Megan and her pig, Claude – when she’s with them she feels as if she can confront anything. At Easter time when Grace misses her mum the most, she knows she must find a way to get to London. With Megan’s help, she hatches a plan to run away that involves Claude, chocolate Easter eggs and a risky ID swap. But it’s all worth it if it means that she finally gets to see her mum.

image courtesy of syndeticsEaster.

Learn about the diverse and vibrant festivals that are celebrated around the world. This series encourages children to consider religious beliefs and cultural practices via easy to read text and informative, full colour images.

Top 5 DVDs to watch over the Easter Break!

image courtesy of amazon.comThe Nutcracker and the four realms.

In search of a key to unlock a box from her late mother, Clara finds her way into a mysterious parallel world. She teams up with a soldier named Philip in order to brave the Fourth Realm to find the key and return harmony to the unstable world.

image courtesy of amazon.comHotel Transylvania. A monster vacation.

The monster family embarks on a vacation on a luxury monster cruise ship so Drac can take a summer vacation from providing everyone else’s vacation at the hotel. It’s smooth sailing for Drac’s Pack as the monsters indulge in all of the shipboard fun the cruise has to offer. But the dream vacation turns into a nightmare when Mavis realizes Drac has fallen for the mysterious captain of the ship, Ericka, who hides a dangerous secret that could destroy all of monster kind.

image courtesy of amazon.comA wrinkle in time.

Although he has been missing for several years and the entire town thinks her father has abandoned her family, Meg steadfastly believes the best and protects her younger brother, Charles Wallace, from the brunt of the rumors and taunting. It is he, however, who convinces her to join him, the school sports star Calvin, and three unusual women on an interplanetary voyage to rescue their father from a vast evil.

image courtesy of amazon.comChristopher Robin.

The young boy, who loved taking adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood with a gang of spirited and lovable stuffed animals, has grown up and lost his way. Now it is up to his childhood friends to venture into that world and help Christopher Robin remember the loving and playful boy who is still inside.

image courtesy of amazon.comCoco.

Despite his family’s generations-old ban on music, Miguel dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol, Ernesto de la Cruz. Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead following a mysterious chain of events. Along the way, he meets charming trickster Hector, and together, they set off on an extraordinary journey to unlock the real story behind Miguel’s family history.

Top 5 movies to watch over Easter… and a couple of surprises!

Easter is just around the corner and Wellington City Libraries is chocablock of DVDs for your viewing pleasure and night of “scoffing chocolate”. Wellington City Libraries will be closed on Friday 19th April, (Good Friday), Sunday 21st April (Easter Day) and Monday 22nd April, (Easter Monday), so now would be an excellent time to stock up on DVDs (…and chocolate!) so you can be entertained over the Easter Break.

Check out my top 5 movie recommendations to watch over Easter.

Also, as an added bonus, this post features a couple of surprises that shows why you must go down to your local movie theatre and see Dumbo, which is now showing, and… Artemis Fowl!

Enjoy!… and Happy Easter.

image courtesy of amazon.comRise of the Guardians.

When an evil spirit known as Pitch lays down the gauntlet to take over the world, the immortal Guardians must join forces for the first time to protect the hopes, beliefs, and imagination of children all over the world.

image courtesy of amazon.comWilly Wonka & the chocolate factory.

The one-and-only Willy Wonka makes the world taste good for a whole new generation in this magical family classic sparkling with brilliantly restored picture and sound! Also included is the all-new documentary Pure Imagination, featuring interviews with Gene Wilder and the Wonka kids and revealing production secrets from the movie!nWhen they find prized Golden Tickets inside their Wonka candy bars, five lucky children win a behind-the-scenes glimpse of the legendary candy factory run by the mysterious Willy Wonka. Now, on a whirlwind tour of Willys incredible, edible realm of milk chocolate waterfalls, elfish Ooompa-Loompas and industrial-sized sugar-coated creations, one very special boy will discover the sweetest secret of all: a generous, loving heart.

image courtesy of amazon.comStorks.

Storks used to deliver babies, they now deliver packages for a global internet store. Junior, top delivery stork, is about to be promoted when he accidentally activates the Baby Making Machine which produces an unauthorized baby girl! Desperately Junior must deliver the bundle of joy before his boss finds out. Get ready for this wild revealing journey that could make more than one family whole and restore the storks’ true mission in the world.

image courtesy of amazon.comTrolls.

When their village is invaded by the grumpy Bergens, two mismatched friends must work together in perfect harmony to save the day. Featuring hit songs performed by Justin Timberlake, Anna Kendrick, and more.

image courtesy of amazon.comIncredibles. 2.

Bob Parr, Mr. Incredible, has unwittingly demonstrated repeated that Supers can cause as much damage as villains while protecting the world, which causes his wife — Elastigirl — to be chosen as the face of a movement to make Supers legal again. Still, it will take the entire gang to take down a new supervillain bent on mind-controlling the entire world!

 

Surprise #1: Movie Review: Dumbo.

Last weekend I went to see Dumbo at the Roxy Cinema and it is in a word, FANTASTIC!

image courtesy of flicks.co.nzTim Burton, (director of the 2005 movie, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory),  directs this live-action retelling of the original animated 1941 Disney classic. Struggling circus owner Max Medici enlists a former star and his two children, Milly and Joe, to care for Dumbo, a baby elephant born with oversized ears. When Milly and Joe discover that Dumbo can fly, with the help of feathers as a good luck charm,  it soon becomes the main attraction — bringing in huge audiences and revitalizing the run-down circus. The elephant’s magical ability also draws the attention of villain,  V.A. Vandevere, an entrepreneur who wants to showcase Dumbo in his latest, larger-than-life entertainment venture, however with less than honorable, and perhaps sinister intentions. And it’s up to Milly, Joe and the circus performers to save the day by rescuing Dumbo, and his Mum from the evil clutches of Vandevere.

Overall I feel Tim Burton did an amazing job with this live action retelling of Dumbo.

Dumbo steals the show with his cuteness, baby blue eyes, inquisitive nature and flying antics. I enjoyed the moments where Dumbo was able to confront and give his tormentors their just deserts by hosed down, the tender moments he had with his mother and the love and kindness he received from the children and circus performers.

All the other characters, even the villain, brings the film to life, gives it depth and will keep you entertained from start to finish, and eager for the long awaited and well deserved happy ending for Dumbo.

As promised, the film delivered at being amazing, entertaining, heartwarming, and definitely heart breaking where it is recommended to have tissues on standby.

A highly recommended movie that the whole family can enjoy at the weekend and Easter break!

A well deserved 9/10!

Surprise #2: Disney’s Artemis Fowl – Teaser Trailer.

The wonderful world of Artemis Fowl comes to life on the big screen on September 19 2019! image courtesy of syndetics

Based on the beloved book by Eoin Colfer, the film follows 12-year-old genius Artemis Fowl, a descendant of a long line of criminal masterminds, as he finds himself in a battle of strength and cunning against a powerful, hidden race of fairies who may be behind his father’s disappearance.

Check out the teaser trailer below!

Upcoming movie releases… in the library and on the big screen!

Hey Kids! The school holidays and Easter creeping up.

Wellington City Libraries has a batch of new releases on DVDs that will be available ASAP to borrow from your local library.

Also check out the trailers to upcoming movies that will be released onto the big screen just in time for the holidays!.. and others that will be released later on throughout the year.

Enjoy!

New release Children’s DVDs:

image courtesy of syndeticsThe Grinch.

Christmas comes early this year… around Easter with the release of the third screen adaptation of the Grinch, made by the film company, Illumination, who also made Sing, The Secret Life of Pets and the Despicable Me film series, and who has epic, and sometimes disastrous plans on running Christmas for the citizens of Whoville. A movie guaranteed to make you laugh and definitely not ruin your Easter break.

Check out the trailer!


You might also like Sing, The Secret Life of Pets, Despicable Me, 2, 3 and Minions.

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Check out The Secret Life of Pets 2 movie trailer! Release date: 20th June.


image courtesy of syndeticsLEGO Jurassic world. The secret exhibit.

With the grand opening of Jurassic World’s new super-secret dinosaur exhibit just days away, only one thing is missing, the dinosaurs! In order to get the job done, Simon Masrani enlists his newly-hired assistant, Claire Dearing, to ensure the new attraction opens on time, or else. Unfortunately, Owen Grady, the animal behaviorist Claire hired to deliver the dinosaurs, is late. Owen’s mission turns out to be far more difficult than anyone could have imagined.

 


image courtesy of syndeticsYou might also like LEGO Jurassic world. The Indominus escape, The LEGO Movie and The Batman LEGO Movie.
Check out THE LEGO Movie 2: The Second Part movie trailer. Release date: 11th April.


image courtesy of amazon.comRalph breaks the internet.

Ralph and Penelope are faced with a new challenge when they begin the search for a spare part to fix a beloved videogame: how to navigate the internet. When trying to fix Sugar Rush the pair become engrossed in the World Wide Web after a router is plugged into the local arcade space, forcing them to find a wheel to replace the router with and get the arcade up and running again. Traversing through this new, technological landscape won’t be easy, with the duo coming across new worlds, cultures, and characters that present difficulties along the way.

You might also like Wreck it Ralph.

 

image courtesy of amazon.comGoosebumps 2.

After accidentally releasing Slappy, three friends must lock the evil puppet and his creatures back into Stine’ book before he takes over.

You might also like Goosebumps.
Movies to watch in movie theatres these school holidays!

Wonder Park. Release date: 11th April.

Missing Link. Release date: 18th April.

Avengers Endgame. Release date: 24th April.

Coming soon to theatres:

Toy Story 4. Release date: 27th June.

Frozen 2. Release date: 28th November.

6 New Non Fiction to read by the end of summer!

Hey kids! Check out the latest junior non fiction in the library. Books featured in this post include information about Everest and animals, books to keep you entertained, as well as help you with your maths homework and a movie guide long in the making that will give you insight to the world of the “How to train your Dragon” movie franchise.

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndeticsEverest.

“There is a place where a mountain grows. It is the highest spot on Earth, the ultimate challenge for mountain-climbing adventurers, the towering figure of Sagarmatha, the Goddess of the Sky … Welcome to Mount Everest. In this stunning book, travel back to the mountain’s ancient origins, learn about the flora and fauna of its great flanks, and discover the rich culture and history surrounding it.”– Provided by publisher.

image courtesy of syndeticsCardboard creations : open-ended exploration with recycled materials.

Provides instructions for creating art projects using recycled materials, such as cardboard boxes and old jars and containers. Great ideas to keep you amused and entertained indoors on a rainy day.

image courtesy of syndeticsSquares, rectangles and other quadrilaterals.

A picture geometry book that introduces children to quadrilaterals, including parallelograms and trapezoids, using hands-on activities and simple explanations. — Provided by publisher.

image courtesy of sydneticsPolka dot parade : a book about Bill Cunningham.

This is a moving and impassioned picture book about the iconic fashion photographer Bill Cunningham that will inspire young readers to go discover their own ideas of beauty and embolden the world with their own creativity!

image courtesy of syndeticsWild: Endangered animals in living motion.

One of the coolest books I have ever read. Wild captures eight endangered animals in living motion. From the cover panda shown lazily munching on leaves, to an albatross swooping its magnificent wings, to a bumblebee taking a sip of water, Wild throws a spotlight on the mammals, birds, and insects that are threatened with extinction. A librarian’s choice all the way!


image courtesy of syndeticsDragons : ultimate movie guide.

Discover all about your favourite Vikings and their dragons in this ultimate guide to the How to Train Your Dragon trilogy! This definitive, official guide gives you the lowdown on all of Toothless and Hiccups adventuresfrom how they first met to their biggest battles. Find out dragon myths, Viking legends and battle stories in this bumper book of Berk.

Check out the trailer to How to train your Dragon: The Hidden World. The epic conclusion  to the How to train your dragon movie series and one of the best films to date! Absolutely love that Toothless the night fury dragon gets a girlfriend in this film. Hilarious moments include when he tries to impress and flirt with the female night fury.

 

 

 

 

More! Top 5 must-see Christmas DVDs for Children

It’s coming close to Christmas Day, have you picked up a Christmas themed DVD to watch during the holiday season? Check this weeks (and final) Top 5 Must see Christmas DVDs blog post for the year!

image courtesy of amazon.com1) My Little Pony : A very Minty Christmas.

For all you Little Pony fans, check out their Christmas themed movie. The “Here Comes Christmas Candy Cane” is an important part of Ponyville – it’s the beacon that shows Santa Claus the way to the town during the holiady rounds each year. But when Minty accidentally breaks it, Minty is determined to do anything tov save Christmas, and together with all of her friends, they discover that Christmas can come any way.


image courtesy of amazon.co.uk2) Get Santa.

It looks like Santa (Jim Broadbent) has got himself in a bit of a pickle when he crashes his sleigh in a garden shed, his reindeer are found running loose through the streets of London, and to top things off he is wanted by the police! Desperate to return to Lapland in time for Christmas, Santa asks Tom (Kit Connor) and his dad Steve (Rafe Spall) for help. Overall, a hilarious and heartwarming Christmas adventure for the whole family.


image courtesy of syndetics3) Barbie. A Perfect Christmas.

Join Barbie and her sisters Skipper, Stacie, and Chelsea as their holiday vacation plans turn into a most unexpected adventure and heartwarming lesson. After a snowstorm diverts their plane, the girls find themselves far from their New York destination and their holiday dreams. Now stranded at a remote inn in the tiny town of Tannenbaum, the sisters are welcomed by new friends and magical experiences.


image courtesy of syndetics4) Frozen in Time.

Young siblings Eric and Pattyare about to take off on a thrilling, and chilling, adventure! After damaging their grandfather’s most treasured possession, a strange clock, they throw the whole world into a crazy time continuum, where Christmas Day is repeated over and over. The only way they can restore order is to travel to the North Pole and repair the clock in Santa’s workshop. With less than a day to go, Eric, Patty, and Grandfather frantically zip off to the frozen wonderland. All they have to do is figure out the complicated solution, carefully mend the clock, and get back home in time to fix Christmas!


IMAGE COURTESY OF AMAZON.COM5) Santa’s Apprentice.

“We follow Nicholas, a 7 year old Australian boy on his adventure as he struggles with the ups and downs of being the next Santa Claus. It’s a big responsibility that would scare the bravest boy. Nicholas wants to be the best Santa ever and will learn a few lessons along the way. But Christmas has a way of making even the biggest mishaps alright and thanks to his loving mentors, Santa and Waldorf, Nicholas learns, as we all do, the true meaning of Christmas”–Container.


Check out the trailer for “Mary Poppins Returns“, an all new original musical and sequel, Mary Poppins is back to help the next generation of the Banks family find the joy and wonder missing in their lives following a personal loss. Released on New Year’s Day!


And as a final Christmas gift… Check the official teaser trailer for the live action movie, The Lion King, based on the original animated movie… and one of my favourite films! It is scheduled to be released on July 18th 2019, which marks the 25th anniversary of the release of the original film. Exciting! While you’re waiting, why not come on down to your local library and rent the original film! As a recap, The Lion King, tells the story of Simba, a delightful lion cub who is heir to the throne of the pride lands. However, when Simba’s father is killed… by Simba’s treacherous uncle, Scar, poor Simba, feeling guilt ridden lion cub flees into exile until the moment where he must confront his uncle and reclaim his identity , as well as destiny as the future King.

On behalf of the Children’s team at Wellington City Libraries, we would love to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a safe and happy new year!

Top 5 Must see Christmas DVDs for Children.

Hey Kids!

Here’s another round of “Top 5 Christmas DVDs” for this week!

Enjoy!

image courtesy of syndetic1) The Naughty List.

A very cute story about two elves and a reindeer that land themselves on the dreaded “Naughty List.” But when the entire the North Pole comes down with food poisoning, they must redeem their Naughty List status by finding a way to save Christmas. This film will make you think again about doing anything naughty during Christmas.


image courtesy of amazon.co.uk2) Nativity!

What started as a simple school nativity play turns into a royal fiasco of quarrelling parents and over-excited children, when primary school teacher Paul Maddens boasts that his ex-girlfriend Jennifer, a Hollywood Producer, is coming to see his show with a view to turning it into a film. (Major lie!). Maddens’ only hope is to get back in touch with Jennifer and lure Hollywood to town so that everybody’s Christmas wishes come true.


image courtesy of amazon.com3) Ice Age : A Mammoth Christmas.

Join Manny, Sid,  Diego, Ellie, Peaches and Scat during this holiday season in Ice Age : A Mammoth Christmas. When Sid accidentally destroys Manny’s heirloom Christmas rock and ends up on Santa’s “naughty list,” he leads a hilarious quest to the North Pole to make things right – and ends up making things much worse. Now it’s up to Manny and his prehistoric posse to band together and save Christmas for the entire world! Over 25 minutes of humour, laughter and holiday cheer from start to finish.  Anyone who is a fan of the Ice Age movies will love this!


image courtesy of amazon.co.uk4) Santa Claws : it’s a holiday cat-astrophe!

If you are a cat lover, this is one movie to snuggle up with your kitty and some popcorn to watch! When Santa suffers a major allergic reaction where he  can’t fly the sleigh or deliver presents anymore, it’s up to a litter of  kittens to deliver the rest of the presents to all the boys and girls before sunrise and save Christmas.


IMAGE COURTESY OF AMAZON.COM5) The Cat in the Hat knows about Christmas.

‘Twas the day before Christmas and all through the yard the Cat in the Hat and his guests partied hard. When the party was over, and the guests all departed one poor baby reindeer was left broken-hearted! Can the Cat in the Hat, Sally, Nick and the Fish help make come true little Ralph’s Christmas wish? To be with his family, in far-off Freeze-Your-Knees. Will you help see him home? Come be our guests, please!


Check out the trailer for “Elliot the littlest Reindeer“, and another Christmas themed movie to watch on the big screen this holiday season.

When Blitzen announces his retirement on December 21st, a miniature horse has 3 days to fulfill his lifelong dream of earning a spot on Santa’s team at the North Pole try-outs.

Top 5 Must see Christmas DVDs for Children.

Hey Kids!

Check out this weeks Top 5 Must see Christmas DVDs!

Enjoy!

IMAGE COURTESY OF AMAZON.CO.UK1) It’s a very merry Muppet Christmas movie.

Join Kermit the Frog, Fozzie Bear, Gonzo, Miss Piggy and the entire Muppet gang in this heart-warming holiday classic, where  the Muppets discover what matters most is their love for each other, even when things go wrong. This movie also features a celebrity cast including David Arquette, Joan Cusack and Whoopi Goldberg, and a show-stopping musical numbers like ‘Moulin Scrooge!’ Overall a funny, uplifting, heart-warming holiday classic that will bring joy to the world every Christmas season! You can’t go wrong with a Muppets movie!


image courtesy of syndetics2) Barbie in The Nutcracker.

If you love Barbie and ballet, then check out, Barbie, the lady herself, starring as Clara, relives the classic tale of the Nutcracker. The story is enhanced with computer-animated dance sequences. A great movie to watch this festive season.


image courtesy of amazon.com
3) Home alone : the holiday heist.

In the fifth and final instalment in the Home Alone franchise, Ten-year-old Finn Baxter thinks his family’s new house in Maine is haunted. But the truth might be even scarier. A trio of thieves are after a priceless painting hidden in a secret room by the previous owner. So when Finn and his sister find themselves home alone, Finn rigs up an elaborate array of techno-gadgets and booby traps to protect his pad from the bumbling criminals trying to break inches. Overall a great film that can be enjoyed by all ages and an even greater finish to the Home Alone franchise.


4) Hook.

An oldie, but a goodie! A high-flying adventure from the magic of Steven Spielberg, Hook stars Robin Williams as a grown-up Peter Pan and Dustin Hoffman as the infamous Captain Hook.


5) image courtesy of syndeticsBeethoven’s Christmas Adventure.

Christmas has gone to the dogs with Beethoven’s Christmas Adventure. “When Henry, a wayward elf, crash-lands Santa’s sleigh and thieves abscond with Santa’s toy bag, it looks like Christmas won’t be coming this year — until the amazing Beethoven and his young human boy pal, Mason, join forces with Henry to save the holiday”–Ezydvd website.


Check out the trailer for “The Nutcracker and the Four Realms“, another retelling of the classic tale of The Nutcracker, and another Christmas themed movie to watch on the big screen this holiday season.

Clara, (Mackenzie Foy) enters a magical world, she meets a soldier named Phillip, a group of mice and the regents who preside over three realms, and must enter a fourth realm to retrieve a magic key and restore harmony to the unstable land.

Top 5 Must see Christmas DVDs for Children.

Hey kids!

It’s less than four weeks until Christmas. In the mood for a Christmas themed DVD to watch during the holiday season? Check this weeks Top 5 Must see Christmas DVDs!

Stay tuned for more “Top 5 Must see Christmas DVDs for Children.” from now until Christmas.

Enjoy!

  1. The Grinch.

On the outskirts of Whoville, there lives a green, revenge-seeking Grinch who plans on ruining the Christmas holiday for all of the citizens of the town.  Based on the book “How the Grinch stole Christmas” by Dr. Seuss and the second screen adaptation of this story. A mixture of humour and Christmas cheer.

image courtesy of amazon.com

Also check out the trailer to the upcoming release of  the third screen adaptation of The Grinch, in cinemas on the 29th of November. Looks hilarious!


image courtesy of amazon.com
2) The Swan Princess Christmas.  

Princesses and Christmas’ rolled into one with The Swan Princess Christmas. “Princess Odette, Prince Derek and their trusted woodland friends reunite in this all-new adventure for their first Christmas celebration together! As the kingdom prepares for a festive holiday, the villainous Rothbart plots to destroy Christmas. Will the castle friends be able to stop Rothbart and save the day?” — container.


3) Home Alone. image courtesy of amazon.com

An oldie but a goodie!…  and one of my favourite movies from childhood. After the McCallisters mistakenly leave for the airport without youngest son, 8-year-old Kevin, (Macaulay Culkin) uses being ‘home alone’ to his advantage, by doing all his favourite things, eating his favourite food and finally being ‘the man of the house.’ But his excitement sours when he realizes that two con men (Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern) plan to rob the McCallister residence, and that he alone must protect the family home. A Die Hard movie for kids!


4) Abominable Christmas. image courtesy of amazon.com

After two abominable snowkids are chased from their mountain hideaway by a scientist determined to capture them, they’re forced to spend Christmas with the most feared animal of them all–humans.


 

image courtesy of amazon.com
5) The Polar Express. 

Based on the beloved book by Chris Van Allsburg, The Polar Express is about a young boy embarks on a magical adventure to the North Pole on the Polar Express. During his adventure he learns about friendship, bravery, and the spirit of Christmas.