4K Digital Review of Ready or Not 2: Here I Come

 

Ready or Not 2: Here I come is the sequel to the 2019 Ready or Not. Taking place several years after the event of the first movie, we once again find Grace (Samara Weaving). She has found out that the game of the first movie isn't over. Her surviving the night of the first movie has caused a new game to begin. The rest of the devil-worshiping families from around the world have sent members of their family to hunt down Grace. 

Hunting Grace is a pair of insane siblings named Ursula and Titus (Sarah Michelle Gellar and Shawn Hatosy). Grace's sister Faith (Kathryn Newton) has shown up at the wrong time and is forced into the game with her sister. Will the two sisters survive?

While there is a lot of familiarity to the sequel, it is still a lot of fun. The first movie took place within the confines of a mansion and this one is on the grounds of a casino resort. Sarah and Shawn do steal the movie in the scenes they are in. 

Video:

The streaming 4K video is stunning. Unlike the first film that created a huge sense of claustrophobia, there is a lot more open space in this one and much of it takes place during the day. The bloody scenes are shown here in top-notch detail. The blood, the organs and body parts are all shown in extreme detail. 

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos audio track pulls no punches. The dialogue is crystal clear from the front channels. The ambient sounds literally surround you. It is everything you wanted for a horror movie. 

Bonus Material:

• The Game Goes On: The Making of Ready of Not 2 - a 4-part behind-the-scenes featurette featuring filmmakers, talent, designs, and the practical effects 

1. Part 1: Written in Blood - The directors and cast discuss what sets the sequel apart from the first film, and how the team expanded the story in a meaningful way
2. Part 2: Casting the Chaos - A spotlight on the film's main cast and what they each brought to their roles
3. Part 3: Designing for Destruction - Dive deeper into the design and execution of the film's finale with a look at the set construction, practical effects and the bloody aftermath left behind
4. Part 4: Blood, Guts and Practical Mayhem - Explore how the film's explosive deaths and blood gags were created with this breakdown of the practical effects and innovations, highlighting how the team built and expanded upon the techniques from the first film  

• Rules of the game - learn the rules of this deadly game of Hide and Seek, from the contained family ritual to the expanded high-stakes hunt 
• Gag Reel
• Audio Commentary - Directors/Executive Producers Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, Samara Weaving and Kathryn Newton
• Audio Commentary - Directors/Executive Producers Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, executive producers/writers Guy Busick and R. Christopher Murphy, producers James Vanderbilt and Tripp Vinson, and editor Jay Prychindny

Conclusion:

Ready or Not 2: Here I Come is not quite as entertaining as the first one but it is still a wild ride. With solid video and audio plus a wealth of bonus material that is generally lacking on most releases, this is a welcomed addition to your horror library.

Ready of Not 2: Here I Come is now available on digital with a Blu-ray and DVD release on June 16th.

*The movie was provided by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for this review but the review is strictly my own opinion*

PHOTOS FROM THE WORLD PREMIERE OF “STAR WARS: THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU” IN HOLLYWOOD

 

Cast and filmmakers from Lucasfilm’s “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu” walked the massive red carpet on Hollywood Blvd. Thursday evening, before heading inside the TCL Chinese Theatre IMAX for the film’s world premiere. In attendance were Pedro Pascal, Sigourney Weaver, Jonny Coyne, Steve Blum, Hemky Madera, Brendan Wayne, Lateef Crowder, Jon Favreau (director/co-writer/producer), Dave Filoni (co-writer/producer), Noah Kloor (co-writer), Kathleen Kennedy (producer), Ian Bryce (producer), Ludwig Göransson (composer), John Knoll (visual effects supervisor), Andrew L. Jones (production designer) and Doug Chiang (production designer). They were joined by a number of guests, many from the Star Wars Universe, including Ming-Na Wen, Manny Jacinto, Timothy Olyphant, Katee Sackhoff, Clancy Brown, Ahmed Best, Eman Esfandi, and Emily Swallow, among numerous others. The all-new Star Wars film opens exclusively in theaters May 22.

 

The evil Empire has fallen, and Imperial warlords remain scattered throughout the galaxy. As the fledgling New Republic works to protect everything the Rebellion fought for, they have enlisted the help of legendary Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his young apprentice Grogu. Directed by Jon Favreau, “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu” is written by Jon Favreau & Dave Filoni & Noah Kloor, and is produced by Kathleen Kennedy, p.g.a., Ian Bryce, p.g.a., Jon Favreau, p.g.a., and Dave Filoni, p.g.a., with Karen Gilchrist, John Bartnicki, and Carrie Beck serving as executive producers. The music is composed by Ludwig Göransson.

4K Digital Review of Pixar's Hoppers

 

Pixar's Hoppers introduces us to Mabel (Piper Curda), an animal lover since childhood, who wants to save a glade that is important to her. This puts her at odds with the town's mayor, Jerry (Jon Hamm), who wants to put a highway through the middle of the glade. The animals of the glade have left due to the construction, but Mabel believes if she can get them to return, then the mayor might have a change of heart.

Mabel discovers one of her professors has invited a "hopping" technology that would allow her to enter the body of a robotic beaver and then communicate with other animals. Mabel hopes this will bring back the animals to the glade. Along the way, Mabel becomes friends with other beavers including King George (Bobby Moynihan), who shows Mabel what it means to be a beaver and trust those around you.

This is a different film for Pixar and yet one of their best films, and funniest, in years. Director Daniel Chong was the shot-in-the-arm that Pixar needed to tell a bold story that still had the heart of Pixar. 

Video:

The streaming 4K video is pristine. The details from the fur on the animals, the clothing on people, the ripples in the water and the woods themselves look amazing. The colors are stunning. Another exceptional transfer from Disney and Pixar.

Audio: 

The Dolby Atmos track here matches the exceptional video. The front channels delivery crystal clear dialogue. The surrounds envelope you in the atmospheric sounds. A wonderful audio mix as one would expect.

Bonus Features:

• The Critter Diaries: Wander behind the scenes with director Daniel Chong and the Pixar creative team as they explore Yellowstone, study wildlife, and find real-life inspiration for our favorite new animated characters from Hoppers.
• Hopping In: The Making of Hoppers: Hop into the making of the movie as filmmakers, cast, and crew share how their ideas, collaboration, and creative process brought the story, animation, and lovable characters to life in Pixar’s Hoppers.
• "Meet King George" Scene Breakdown: Dive deep with director Daniel Chong and the filmmaking team as they reveal the craft of making King George’s Superlodge. Get insight into the directing process, editing, VFX, animation, and production design.
• Beaverton Revealed: Explore Hoppers to find surprising Pixar film cameos, hidden references, and plenty of fun, behind-the-scenes facts.
• Dam Good Bloopers: Laugh along with your favorite voice actors from Hoppers as they have fun bringing their characters to life in the recording booth.
• Deleted Scenes: Check out these scenes that didn’t make the final cut, as introduced by director Daniel Chong and editor Axel Geddes.
• Cold Open
• The Glade
• The Mission
• Kings Arrive
• George's Bachelor Pad
• Helicopter Ride

Conclusion:

One of the best films to come out of Pixar in years. A film full of heart and one of their funniest films to date. Some fun bonus features make this a highly recommended addition to your library.

Hoppers is available on digital now and on DVD, Blu-ray and 4K UHD June 2nd.

*The film was provided by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review. The review is strictly my own opinion.* 

4K Digital Review of Psycho Killer

 

Psycho Killer is directed by Gavin Palone and has a great cast featuring Georgina Campbell, James Preston Rogers (as the Satanic Slasher) and the legendary Malcolm McDowell. It runs in a very quick paced 91 minutes. 

On the surface, the film seems like your run-of-the-mill horror movie. A person is seeking revenge for the death of a loved one. This is not reinventing the wheel but they do have a different take on the lead character. Jane Archer (Georgina Campbell) is a Kansas highway patrol officer who is also expecting. Her husband Mike (Stephen Adekolu) has been killed and she is out to hunt down his killer. She finds out the killer is a notorious serial killer called the Satanic Slasher, who has ties to a mansion owned by Mr. Pendleton (Malcolm McDowell). 

The movie falls apart with something that should have made for a different take on the genre. We focus on Jane and the Satanic Slashers motivations to complete their mission. This should have made for an incredible movie, but instead is edited down to try to create a fierce pace but forgets about plot points that never get resolved. 

Video:

The streaming 4K video is very crisp as to be expected. Details are sharp and clear. It is a very dark movie so the blacks are inky. 

Audio:

The 5.1 audio mix is good. Dialogue is clear from the front channels. The score and atmospheric sounds fill the surround speakers. 

Bonus Features:

 There are no bonus features.

Conclusion:

The 4K video is crisp and the audio mix creates the horror atmosphere but the lack of story makes this a one-time watch if you are into horror films.

Psycho Killer is now available on digital.

*The film was provided by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review. The review is strictly my opinion.*

4K Digital Review of Avatar: Fire and Ash

 

The world of Pandora has returned once again in Avatar: Fire and Ash, the third film in the Avatar franchise from James Cameron. Avatar: Fire and Ash is now available on digital. It will be available on DVD, 3D Blu-ray, Blu-ray and 4K UHD on May 16th. 

In this third film, we find Jake and Neytiri still mourning the loss of their oldest son. At the same time, there is a new threat, the Metkayina clan, also known as the Ash people. Their leader, the ruthless Varang, has moved away from the peaceful way of the Eywa, and instead has moved to the way of fire and violence. Joining the cause of the Ash people, the RDA helps them to fight the rest of the clans.  

This is a much darker story than the previous films. We see how the different clans interact and clash with one another. We also see the focus on the younger generation of Na'vi. The constant danger in the world and seen through the yes of the children gives the film real emotional heart. What will happen to the Sully family as well as the fate of the clans?  

Video:

The streaming 4K video is close to reference quality. You can see how the details such as ultra-realistic skin textures and clothing have vastly improved over the last two films. Colors are vibrant from the jungle, to the ocean and the volcanic areas. This is a new standard for CG and will be something you show off your 4K TV with.

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos 5.1 audio mix is solid and compliments the amazing video. The mix makes incredible use of the surround channels to immerse you into the world of Pandora. 

Bonus Features:

English Family Audio Track (3:17:09) – All objectionable language removed.

Igniting The Flame: The Making of Avatar: Fire and Ash Play All (2:55:40)

1. Writing the Sequels (13:38)
2. Pandora Design (18:33)
3. RDA Design (18:38)
4. The Women of Pandora (11:40)
5. Varang and the Mangkwan (15:40)
6. Capturing Performance (16:44)
7. Stunts (13:04)
8. Editing and Virtual Camera (7:42)
9. WETA FX (16:45)
10. ILM (7:41)
11. Score (13:32)
12. The Art and Impact of 3D (10:04)
13. Home in New Zealand (12:01)

Jon Landau Tribue (21:40)

RDA Orientation Play All (13:39)

1. Na’vi 101: The RDA’s Official Language Orientation (5:06)
2. Pandora Intelligence Brief (8:32)

Marketing Materials & Music Video Play All (8:35)

1. “Dream As One” Music Video – Miley Cyrus (3:31)
2. Theatrical Trailer 1 (2:27)
3. Theatrical Trailer 2 (2:37)

Conclusion: 

Avatar: Fire and Ask continues the epic story of family and survival. It also continues to push the visuals and audio. With hours of bonus features to accompany an already three hour and fifteen minutes movie, this is a welcome addition to your library if you are a fan of the Avatar franchise. 

*The movie was sent by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the sole purpose of this review. The review is strictly my own opinion.*

4K Digital Review of Send Help

 

Sam Raimi is back, with a return to form, with another entry into the horror/comedy genre with Send Help. Linda (Rachel McAdams) is great at her job. So great that the CEO promised her a promotion. But after his passing, his son Bradley (Dylan O'Brien) is not interested in promoting her. Instead, he promotes his friends and they make fun of the little girl who eats lunch at her desk. As a way to prove herself, Bradley invites Linda on a business trip to Thailand. 

The plane runs into a storm and ends up crashing into the ocean. Bradley and Linda are the only ones to survive and end up on a tropical island. Fortunately for them, Linda is a huge fan of the TV show Survivor. She even sent in an audition tape which Bradley finds and shares with his buddies before the plane crash. So, in the reversal of the balance of power, Linda is in charge and we shall see what happens to them.

Here the film weaves back and forth between the two lead characters. You get the different perspectives from each one. It is thrilling, exciting and a comedic thriller from Sam Raimi who started the comedy horror genre. Rachel excels in her role and Dylan is along for the ride. He is good in his role but Rachel truly shines. 

Video:

The streaming 4K video is stunning. The beginning of the film, in the office setting, the area is clean and well-defined. The textures on the materials especially clothing are exceptional. On the island is where the video truly shines. The sunsets, the beaches, the ocean water and the lush jungle all have remarkable clarity and color.  

Audio:

The streaming Dolby Atmos track is wonderful. The dialogue is crisp and clear from the front channels. The score is immersive and surrounds you. But where the audio truly shines is in the environmental sounds. The excellent use of audio to create a sense of chaos of the plane crash is the perfect example here. Also, the ambient environmental sounds of the island keeps you grounded. You feel like you are on the island with these characters. 

Bonus Features:

• Audio Commentary with director Sam Raimi and producer Zainab Azizi.
• Featurettes - a wealth of behind the scenes featurettes
• Deleted Scenes - over an hour of deleted as well as alternate scenes
• Bloopers

Conclusion:

Send Help is a return to form for Sam Raimi. Strong performances by both McAdams and O'Brien along with reference quality video and audio and a wealth of bonus material make this an easy recommendation to add to your movie library. 

“STAR WARS: THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU” SPECIAL LOOK FAN EVENTS AT SELECT IMAX® THEATERS AROUND THE WORLD ON MAY THE 4TH

 

On May the 4^th, the Ultimate Star Wars holiday, Lucasfilm will host special look fan events for  “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu,” at select IMAX® theaters around the world. Each event will showcase more than 25 minutes of exclusive, never-before-seen footage, special fan giveaways, including a brand-new, exclusive poster, and other fun surprises. For ticket information in the U.S. and a list of IMAX theaters in the U.S.: http://fandan.co/Maythe4thIMAXSpecialLookEvent

 

“Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu” opens exclusively in theaters May 22, 2026. Advance tickets for the all-new Star Wars film directed by Jon Favreau, starring Pedro Pascal, Sigourney Weaver, and Jeremy Allen White, are currently available for purchase at Fandango or wherever tickets are sold.

 

The evil Empire has fallen, and Imperial warlords remain scattered throughout the galaxy. As the fledgling New Republic works to protect everything the Rebellion fought for, they have enlisted the help of legendary Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his young apprentice Grogu. Directed by Jon Favreau, “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu” is written by Jon Favreau & Dave Filoni & Noah Kloor, and is produced by Jon Favreau, p.g.a., Kathleen Kennedy, p.g.a., Dave Filoni, p.g.a., and Ian Bryce, p.g.a., with Karen Gilchrist, John Bartnicki, and Carrie Beck serving as executive producers. The music is composed by Ludwig Göransson.

“THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2” ATTEND FILM’S WORLD PREMIERE AT LINCOLN CENTER’S DAVID GEFFEN HALL

 

For the first time ever, the star-studded ensemble cast from “The Devil Wears Prada 2” reunited at the David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center earlier this evening for the film’s world premiere. Cast and filmmakers in attendance included Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt, Stanley Tucci, Kenneth Branagh, Justin Theroux, Lucy Liu, Simone Ashley, Caleb Hearon, Helen J. Shen, B.J. Novak, and Patrick Brammall, director David Frankel, screenwriter/executive producer Aline Brosh McKenna, producer Wendy Finerman, executive producers Michael Bederman and Karen Rosenfelt and costume designer Molly Rogers.

 

They were joined by global fashion icon and recording artist Lady Gaga and guests from the worlds of fashion and music, including Marc Jacobs, Law Roach, Brunello Cucinelli, Heidi Klum, Naomi Campbell, SIENNA SPIRO, and more. 20th Century Studios’ “The Devil Wears Prada 2” debuts exclusively in theaters May 1.

 

The event was livestreamed on Disney+, Hulu, ABC News, and TikTok (with a full replay available on Disney+ and Hulu following the event), with hosts Brad Goreski, Tefi Bessoa, Deborah Roberts, and Sophie Flay, offering subscribers around the globe an exclusive front-row seat to the glamorous, star-studded event. In anticipation of the sequel, fans can revisit the original fashion phenomenon by streaming “The Devil Wears Prada” on Disney+ and Hulu now.

 

Twenty years after making their iconic turns as Miranda, Andy, Emily, and Nigel—Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci return to the fashionable streets of New York City and the sleek offices of Runway Magazine in 20th Century Studios’ “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” the eagerly awaited sequel to the 2006 phenomenon that defined a generation. The film is directed by David Frankel, written by Aline Brosh McKenna, produced by Wendy Finerman, and executive produced by Michael Bederman, Karen Rosenfelt, and Aline Brosh McKenna.

4K Digital Review: The Testament of Ann Lee

 

In The Testament of Ann Lee, Amanda Seyfried plays Ann Lee, the founder of the devote religious sect known as the Shakers. We follow Ann Lee as she leads her followers from England to colonial America. In America, they hope to build a utopian society based on gender equality and communal faith. Through the use of reimagined Shaker hymns, we see the joy of Ann's vision as well as the costs. Her strength and faith are questioned in a world that is hesitant to believe what she is preaching.

Writer-director Mona Fastvold's approach is bold. The use of the Shaker hymns is less musical theater and more of prayers made to be seen. And Seyfried delivers a career-best performance. This is a film that wants to be felt, not just seen.  

Video:

The streaming 4K is beautiful. There is a natural graininess that brings the time period to life. The natural light in the daylight scenes and the candlelight scenes at night have exceptional clarity. There is a sense of real depth and texture.     

Audio:

The Dolby 5.1 audio mix is wonderful. It really captures the immersive level of the Shaker hymns. Dialogue is clear from the front channels. The surrounds do a great job with environmental effects as well as the score. 

Bonus Feature:

• The Testament of Ann Lee: A Special Look (21:40) - Join filmmakers and cast members - including director/co-writer Mona Fastvold and actor Amanda Seyfried - for a behind-the-scenes look at making this original film about compassion, empathy, community and one woman’s charismatic leadership in founding the Shaker movement. Learn details about the research, set design, cinematography, choreography, music and costume design that create the film’s spellbinding and extraordinary look and feel.

Conclusion:

The Testament of Ann Lee is a bold movie that feels less like a bio pic, and more of an experience. The streaming 4K video is exceptional as is the Dolby 5.1 audio. I do wish there was more than just one bonus feature. But this is a film that deserves a watch and another watch for good measure.

*The movie was provided by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review. The review is strictly my own opinion.* 

The Testament of Ann Lee is available on digital now. 

4K Digital Review of Is This Thing On?

 

The latest film from director Bradley Cooper, "Is This Thing On?" tells the story of Alex (Will Arnett) and Tess (Laura Dern). Thyeh vae decided to end their marriage of 20 years and Alex turns to stand-up comedy as a way to try to understand what is happening. Tess, a former Olympian volleyball player and was one of the all-time greats. Since retirement she became a wife and a mom. With the upcoming divorce, she turns to volleyball once again but this time to become a coach.

Through the movie we learn about the difficulties of co-parenting and self-discovery. We also learn how hardships can lead you down new paths, opening up new doors. Arnett is outstanding as an everyman trying to handle failure. Blending his comedic skills in a dramatic role gives Alex a sense of vulnerability that feels believable. Dern is equally outstanding as she brings strength to a role that also showcases the quiet sacrifices of partnership. Her chemistry with Arnett is the grounds of the emotional core of the movie. 

Video:

The streaming 4K video is stunning. The streets and colors of New York come to life. Skin tones are accurate and details such as cloth and other materials are rich and vibrant. A wonderful transfer from Searchlight and Disney. 

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos audio track here is wonderful. Dialogue is crystal clear from the front channels. Ambient environmental sounds and audience laughter in stand-up comedy shows fill the surround channels. The score blends in around you. A solid audio mix from Searchlight and Disney. 

Bonus Feature*

• Mic Drop: Making Is This Thing On? – Go behind the scenes as filmmakers and cast open up about the inspirations behind this story of love, loss, and starting again. Get a glimpse into working with a remarkable ensemble and hear about how the team developed their comedy sets.

Conclusion:

"Is This Thing On?" is a solid look at separation and self-discovery. Solid performances from Arnett and Dern capture the pain of life at times as well the rewards that come through hardship. A decent bonus feature combined with solid video and audio make this a welcomed addition to your movie library. 

"Is This Thing On?" is available on digital and on 4K Blu-ray and DVD March 17th.

*The movie was provided by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review. The review is strictly my opinion.*

4K Digital Review of Ella McCay

 

Emma Mackey plays Ella McCay, who gets the opportunity of a lifetime when Governor Bill (Albert Brooks) takes a job in Washington D.C. and leaves his job to Lt. Governor Ella. She has plans for her 14 months in office. But her problems with her family take over her life. She struggles with her womanizing father Eddie (Woody Harrelson), as well as the emotional issues faced by her brother Casey (Spike Fearn). Ella's husband Ryan (Jack Lowden) creates a scandal for his wife and threatens her plan to help the people of her state.

Estella (Julie Kavner) plays Ella's secretary and narrator of this film. She gives us the details of Ella's life. We see her mother (Rebecca Hall), deal with her husband's cheating. When her mom passed away, Ella is pretty much on her own. But as we move back into the present, there is literally too much going on and nothing seems to be resolved. This is what hurts the movie. Too many characters with too many motivations and we get a maze that we never get out of.  

Video:

The 4K streaming video is crystal clear. Fine details such a as sets and clothing are wonderful. Colors are natural and unsaturated. Another outstanding transfer from Disney and 20th Century Studios.

Audio:

The 5.1 Dolby Atmos audio track is very immersive. Environmental sounds surround you whether the scene takes place indoors or outdoors. Even background voices fall into the surround channels to increase the level of immersion. Dialogue is crystal clear through the front channels. The Hans Zimmer score fills in the space wonderfully. 

Bonus Features:

Deleted Scenes:

• “You Win, We Lose”
• “Forget About The Union Rep”
• “I Love Girl”
• “No More Interruptions”
• “Make Your Family Whole”
• “A Small Concussion”
• “Hazel Bottomless”
• “You Got Him Out”
• “Nice Family”

 

Bloopers

Featurettes:

• A James L. Brooks Film: Go behind the scenes as the film’s star-studded cast and crew share their joy of working with acclaimed writer-director James L. Brooks. Experience Brooks’ singular gift for creating beloved, memorable movie moments — and what it’s like to hear him laugh.

• In Good Company: The Cast Of Ella McCay: Sit down with James L. Brooks as he talks about his extraordinary cast and as the actors share their respect and appreciation for Brooks — and each other. Hear about the casting process that created heartfelt chemistry both on set and onscreen.

Conclusion:

Ella McCay has an amazing cast and some witty writing but sadly this ends up feeling like something for television instead of a motion picture. The audio and video are solid and the bonus features are enjoyable if you are considering to make this a purchase. 

Ella McCay is out on digital and will available on Blu-ray on March 3rd.

*The movie was provided by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review. The review is strictly my own opinion.*

DISNEY AND PIXAR DEBUT NEW “TOY STORY 5” TRAILER AND POSTER

 

An all-new trailer and poster for Disney and Pixar’s highly anticipated upcoming animated adventure “Toy Story 5” debut today. The toys are back and this time, Buzz Lightyear, Woody, Jessie and the rest of the gang's jobs are challenged when they come face-to-face with Lilypad (voice of Greta Lee), a brand-new tablet device that arrives with her own disruptive ideas about what is best for their kid, Bonnie. Will playtime ever be the same?

 

The trailer also teases the anticipated reunion of Woody and Buzz following Woody’s decision to leave the gang and start helping lost toys at the end of 2019’s “Toy Story 4.” As the toys face the tech devices of today, it’s going to be all hands on deck with some familiar and all-new characters.

 

Several actors have joined the incredible roster of voice talent including Craig Robinson as Atlas, a cheerful talking GPS hippo toy; Shelby Rabara as the excitable camera toy Snappy; Scarlett Spears as the sweet and shy 8-year-old Bonnie; Mykal-Michelle Harris as Blaze, an independent 8-year-old girl who loves animals; and Matty Matheson as the tech-fearing toy Dr. Nutcase.

 

Also rounding out the voice cast are John Ratzenberger as the wisecracking piggybank Hamm; Wallace Shawn as Rex, the anxiety-riddled tyrannosaurus rex toy; Blake Clark as the ever-loyal Slinky Dog; Jeff Bergman as the sarcastic Mr. Potato Head; Anna Vocino as the nurturing Mrs. Potato Head; Annie Potts as the adventure-loving Bo Peep; Bonnie Hunt as the wise rag-doll Dolly; Melissa Villaseñor as Karen Beverly, Bonnie’s homemade toy fashioned out of a plastic knife; John Hopkins as the dignified hedgehog plush toy Mr. Pricklepants; Kristen Schaal as the plastic triceratops toy Trixie; Ernie Hudson as the action figure Combat Carl; and Keanu Reeves as Canadian daredevil toy Duke Caboom.

 

The previously announced voice cast includes Tom Hanks (Woody), Tim Allen (Buzz Lightyear), Joan Cusack (Jessie), Greta Lee (Lilypad), Conan O’Brien (Smarty Pants) and Tony Hale (Forky).

“Toy Story 5” is directed by Academy Award® winner Andrew Stanton (“WALL•E,” “Finding Nemo,” “Finding Dory”), co-directed by Kenna Harris (“Ciao Alberto”), produced by Lindsey Collins (“Turning Red,” “WALL•E,” “Finding Dory”), and features an original score by Academy Award® winner Randy Newman who returns to score his fifth “Toy Story” feature. The film releases exclusively in theaters nationwide on June 19, 2026. 

NEW TRAILER FOR “STAR WARS: THE MANDALORIAN AND GROGU”

 

A brand-new epic, action-packed trailer for “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu” has arrived! Lucasfilm’s “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu” opens exclusively in theaters May 22, 2026.

 

The evil Empire has fallen, and Imperial warlords remain scattered throughout the galaxy. As the fledgling New Republic works to protect everything the Rebellion fought for, they have enlisted the help of legendary Mandalorian bounty hunter Din Djarin (Pedro Pascal) and his young apprentice Grogu. Directed by Jon Favreau, “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu” also stars Sigourney Weaver and Jeremy Allen White and is produced by Jon Favreau, Kathleen Kennedy, Dave Filoni, and Ian Bryce,  with music composed by Ludwig Göransson.

4K Digital Review of Zootopia 2

 

The first Zootopia is one of my favorite animated films ever. A sequel was inevitable and nine years later, Zootopia 2 has arrived. The movie begins one week after the end of the first film. Nick (Jason Bateman) and Judy (Ginnifer Goodwin) get in trouble for a bust that goes wrong. But while this bust went wrong, they have stumbled upon another mystery that will lead them into further trouble as they continue to investigate it. 

This movie contains a lot of the same DNA of the original, but we get to focus on the relationship between Nick and Judy. You can see that the two have come a long way from the first film. You don't get the bickering of the first film but more of their differences of how to get this case solved. I won't get into any spoilers so you can let the movie unfold on its own.

While almost everyone returns to voice their characters again, there are a lot of new characters. We meet Gary De'Snake (Ke Huy Quan) who is a wonderful addition to the cast. Pawbert Lynxly (Andy Samberg) is a lynx and adds warmth and charm. Mayor Winddancer is voiced by Patrick Warburton in perhaps my favorite character since Kronk. 

If you are a fan of the first movie, then you will like the sequel. It continues the story along without just being a rehash of the first one. The returning characters move forward in their story and the new characters are a welcome addition.

Video:

The streaming 4K video is picture perfect. The colors are bright and bold, the details of the fur, scales, and cloth are all exceptional. Backgrounds are full of details and create a lived in world. A fantastic transfer from Disney.

Audio:

The Dolby Atmos track is a wonderful match to the video quality. Dialogue is crisp and clear from the front channels. Environmental sounds surround you and invite you into the world. The amazing songs and soundtrack fill in all the surround channels. Another solid audio track from Disney. 

Bonus Features*

• Featurettes:

o   The Zookeepers — Trot along with writer/director Jared Bush and director Byron Howard for a tour of Walt Disney Animation Studios! Get a behind the scenes look as they open up the doors to meet cast and crew and share about all the work done to bring the movie to life.

o   A City of Stars — Meet the fur-tastic voice actors behind the cast of Zootopia 2 as filmmakers share the joy of having the original cast returning and how each new role found its purr-fect match.

o   Everybody Can Draw! — Sketch along with Benson Shum, Animation Supervisor, as he talks about his role on Zootopia 2 and guides viewers in drawing everyone’s favorite new beaver, Nibbles!

o   Zoo-prising Secrets — Uncover ssssurprising references and characters from some of your favorite Walt Disney Animation Studios films hidden throughout the movie, along with fun facts.

o   Wilde Times in the Booth — Hop inside the recording booth for plenty of laughs and behind-the-scenes fun. See how the hilarious cast brings their characters to life!

o   The Treat Trolley — Meet the cheerful crew behind the Treat Trolley that brings smiles and snacks throughout the halls of Disney Animation to keep the studio artists fueled and energized.

o   "Zoo" Music Video by Shakira — Celebrate friendship and adventure with Shakira in her music video for the movie’s new song, “Zoo.”

• Deleted Scenes – Check out the scenes that didn’t make the final cut, with an overall introduction by directors Jared Bush and Byron Howard.

• What's In the Box?

• Where Are They Now?
• Animal Hospital

• Welcome to the Team

• Desert Festival

• Clawhauser Tracks Judy

• A Plight at the Museum

• Clawhauser's Family

Conclusion:

A fun movie filled with laughs and heart. We get wonderful returning characters and great new characters to propel the story forward. Lots of great bonus material as well will make this a more than worthy addition to your movie library.

Zootopia 2 is now available on digital. It will be available on DVD, 4K UHD on March 3rd.

*The movie was provided by Walt Disney Home Entertainment for the purpose of this review. The review is strictly my own opinion.*