New Release
‘Grow’
In the village of Mugford, UK, Charlie Little (Priya-Rose Brookwell) moves in with her quirky Aunt Dinah (Golda Rosheuvel) and dives into the town’s big contest: pumpkin-growing. Determined to outgrow the smug local contest champ, Charlie plants her hopes (and a monster pumpkin) in order win the prize money and find her missing mother.The comedy plays like a cheerful daydream with dirt under its nails—goofy, bright, and impossible not to smile at. A colorful reminder that persistence (and fertilizer) can make anything flourish. Recommended for older kids.
Family Pick
‘Shaun the Sheep Movie’
Shaun (Justin Fletcher) is tired of the grind at Mossy Bottom Farm, so he hatches a plan for a day off by putting the farmer (John Sparkes) to sleep. The stunt backfires, sending the farmer into the city with amnesia, and forcing Shaun and the flock to chase after him.For a feature spun off from farmyard shorts, it’s impressive how well this works. There’s no dialogue: just snorts, bleats, and music. The combination carries the load well despite its almost 90- minute running time. Some mild perils pop up but nothing too rough. The sharp stop-motion and the humor work for both kids and grown-ups.
Fairy Tale in Manhattan
‘Enchanted’
Princess Giselle (Amy Adams) is banished from her fairy-tale kingdom by Queen Narissa (Susan Sarandon) and lands in Manhattan. Out of her element, she’s helped by lawyer Robert (Patrick Dempsey) while Prince Edward (James Marsden) races to rescue her.The film waltzes along with a solid supporting cast and Amy Adams shining as Giselle. The songs are fun, the costumes pop, and Disney’s self-aware humor keeps this film entertaining for all ages.
A Quiet Town Under Siege
‘Went the Day Well?’
During World War II, English villagers welcome soldiers they think are engineers, only to discover they are German troops preparing for invasion. Once the townsfolk unmask these visitors, they fight back.The Allied resistance stays gripping, and because the film blends wartime grit with sly humor, it makes for an entertaining ride. This brisk thriller doesn’t overplay its propaganda hand.
