Latest podcast appearance!

 Hello readers,

Be sure to check out my latest podcast appearance on Books, Brews, and Dogs' Indie Author Spotlight in which I discuss my debut novel, A Boy's Best Comrade!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lrC36CgyIHM

Classics: A Review of The Black Cauldron By Lauren Ennis

 Over the course of more than a century Walt Disney Studios has become a media juggernaut synonymous with Western animation. Even as it has turned out decades of classics, however, the studio has not been without its struggles. One of its most dire moments came in the aftermath of its infamous flop The Black Cauldron. Infamous for being "the movie that almost killed Disney, film's blend of mature themes, relatable characters, and timeless lessons have earned it a cult following in the decades since its release. For a journey into the dark side of Disney, gaze into The Black Cauldron...if you dare.

The story begins in the fantasy world of Prydain (inspired by medieval Wales) where orphaned Taran dreams of leaving the farm where he lives with his guardian, Dallben the Enchanter. The adventure he craves soon arrives when Dallben reveals that their pet pig, Henwen, possesses psychic abilities. He goes on to explain that Henwen's powers have drawn the attention of the wicked Horned King. The Horned King hopes to utilize Henwen's powers to locate the black cauldron, a magical relic that can summon an army of the undead. Dallben instructs Taran to take Henwen into hiding. Almost as soon as his journey begins, however, he loses her to the Horned King's minions. So begins an epic journey that will take Taran literally to Hell and back as he struggles to stop the Horned King before it is too late.

While the film proved to be a critical and commercial failure upon its release, it has since gone on to gain a cult following, and it is easy to see why. In spite of its medieval setting populated with princesses and monsters, The Black Cauldron actually marks a stark departure from Disney's tried and true formula. The film features surprisingly mature themes including loss, self-sacrifice, and the pain of growing up. The film also sets itself apart from its contemporaries through its depiction of characters who are flawed, complex, and relatable. Rather than a noble hero, Taran is every bit as reckless self-involved, and stubborn as any other preteen. Through its focus upon a refreshingly realistic protagonist the film ensures that viewers will relate to Taran, and invest in his struggles. Similarly, the grounded foundation of his character makes his eventual evolution into a selfless friend and capable leader both believable and satisfying. The film also deviates from studio standards in its portrayal of plucky Princess Eilonwy. While Disney princesses are often criticized as helpless damsels, Eilonwy proves herself to be more than capable. For example, upon their first meeting it is Eilonwy who rescues a captured Taran and later acts as their group's co-leader. Perhaps the film's greatest surprise is the ultimate reveal of its true hero, the frightened, unassuming, but ultimately noble Gurgi. Through its depiction of Gurgi's heroism the film serves as an apt reminder that even the most seemingly insignificant amongst us cam make a difference. The film brings its innovative adventure to dazzling life thanks to some of the most intricate, ominous, and vibrant animation that the studio ever set to film. Follow the call to adventure with Taran with The Black Cauldron.

The film brings its story to brilliant life thanks to the work of its vocal cast. Freddie Jones imbues Dallben with warmth and wisdom. Nigel Hawthorne infuses hapless bard Fflewddur Fflam with comedic charm. Susan Sheridan perfectly captures Eilonwy's independence and intelligence while still highlighting her vulnerability. John Hurt is a nightmare worthy villain in his sinister turn as the Horned King. John Byner steals each scene in which he appears as the by turns adorable, comic, cowardly, and ultimately heroic woodland creature, Gurgi. Grant Bardsley makes for a relatable everyman as he aptly portrays Taran's evolution from reckless, selfish, child to mature, self-sacrificing, young man. 

At once a classic fantasy epic and a much needed shake-up of the Disney formula, The Black Cauldron remains one of the studio's most original and entertaining efforts. The script takes viewers on a rousing adventure while still imparting timeless lessons. The vocal performances and animation transport viewers into the fantastical world of Prydain. Embark upon the adventure of a lifetime with Taran in The Black Cauldron.

Second podcast appearance!

  Hello readers,

I just wanted to share my podcast debut with all of you on The Wandering Scribe in which I discuss my debut novel, A Boy's Best Comrade, and my writing process. I hope that you enjoy!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kr5O2LYfdJQ&t=187s

An Exciting Announcement!

 Hello readers,

I just wanted to share my podcast debut with all of you on The Wandering Scribe in which I discuss historical fiction and history. I hope that you enjoy!

The Historians Lounge Season 4 Ep 1: History & Historical Fiction with Author Lauren Ennis

Classics: A Review of The Chipmunk Adventure By Lauren Ennis

 What would you do for $100,000? That is the question posed to the Chipmunks and Chippettes. So begins the wild, zany, and surprisingly heartfelt caper that is the Chipmunk adventure. Blending the Chipmunks signature charm with Jules Verne style globetrotting. The film takes viewers on an adventure they won't soon forget. Join Alvin, Simon, and Theodore for the adventure of a lifetime in the Chipmunk Adventure. 

Off to see the world

The story begins with Chipmunks' guardian, Dave, leaving for a business trip to Europe. The boys are left in the care of scatter-brained babysitter, Miss Miller. While playing a competitive arcade game against the Chippette's they are approached by wealthy and mysterious siblings Claus and Claudia. The pair propose a wager that the Chipmunks and Chippettes race around the world for a $100,000 prize. Despite Simon and Jeannette's misgivings, Alvin and Britney sign their siblings up for an adventure that neither the Chipmunks nor Chippettes will soon forget.

The film takes viewers on an adventure the likes of which only the 1980's could offer. Much like the best family films of the era The Chipmunk Adventure explores dark themes, moral dilemmas, and genuine peril in a way that is still family friendly. For example, the film sheds light on the dark realities of child exploitation through Claus and Claudia's manipulation of the Chipmunks and Chippettes. The rocking rodents soon learn that stranger danger is all too real when they realize that the sinister siblings are actually using their race as a cover for a diamond smuggling operation. Similarly, they are faced with moral questions in the form of Claus and Claudia's initial offer and later when they realize that they have been acting as inadvertent smugglers. The ultimate lessons to e wary of strangers and admit to your mistakes are vital truths that the film presents without resorting to lecturing or pandering. The film also tests its young viewers by placing its heroes in terrifyingly real peril in the form of child marriage, hungry sharks, and even human sacrifice. Even as it puts its pint-sized protagonists to the ultimate test, however, the madcap musical never misses a comedic beat. See the world with the Chipmunks and Chippettes in The Chipmunk Adventure.

Culture shock

The film transports viewers on a trip around the world thanks to the vocal performances of its cast. Ross Bagdasarian Jr. More than lives up to his family legacy as rebellious Alvin, worry-wart Simon, and kind but overwhelmed single father, Dave. Janice Krman seamlessly shifts from naive Theodore to feisty Britney, to strait-laced Jeannette, to good-hearted Eleanor. Dody Goodman is an utter hoot as the Chipmunks' daffy but well-meaning babysitter, Miss Miller. Susan Tyrell makes for an apt femme fatale as equal parts sultry and sinister Claudia. Anthony De Long oozes sleaze as Claudia's partner in crime, entitled and smarmy Claus.

At once a loving homage to classic adventures and an awesomely 80's caper. The Chipmunk Adventure is a rocking good time. The script delivers thrills, tunes, and a even lesson or two without missing a beat. The vocal performances bring the colorful cast of characters to whimsical life. Take on the world with the Chipmunks and Chippettes in The Chipmunk Adventure.

Rock and roll!

Classics: A Review of Bad Santa By Lauren Ennis

 The holidays are a time for joy, family, good will, and laughter. For con-man Willy Stokes, however, its seasons scammings. 2003's hit comedy Bad Santa follows Willy as he attempts to pull off the greatest scheme of his criminal career, all while in the guise of a department store Santa Claus. Along the way, he discovers found family, redemption, and just maybe something resembling the holiday spirit. This Christmas, discover how fun it is to be on the naughty list with Bad Santa.

The story begins with Willy and his partner in crime, Marcus, robbing a department store while under cover as Santa and an elf. One year later Willy has wasted most of his share of the loot, leaving him unable to refuse Marcus offer of one last job. The pair go about arranging their usual scam with Willy taking a job as a department store Santa while Marcus is again cast as Santa's elf. The job is soon complicated, however, by the store's suspicious manager and conniving security chief. Just as the duo's scheme threatens to unravel a Christmas miracle arrives in the form of gullible, dim-witted, customer Thurman Merman. Believing that Willy really is Santa, the boy offers him the family car and access to the family safe. What begins as a convenient arrangement grows into something more as Willy begrudgingly takes on the role of Thurman's mentor, protector, and father-figure. What follows is a madcap caper that will have even the hardest humbugs chuckling 'ho, ho, ho'.

Bad Santa is the perfect blend of humor and heart. The film makes the most of its absurd premise by juxtaposing Willy and Marcus' crudeness and criminality with the supposed wholesomeness of their department store roles. In this way, the film speaks to the Grinch in all of us as it follows the duo through a endless lines of screaming children, nagging mothers, and cheery coworkers that would leave mana a Santa begging for New Year's. Beyond its most obvious gags, the film relates an all too human tale of hard times, regrets, and redemption. With the arrival of Thurman the film does more than give Willy a dupe to pull one over on, it gives him a reason to keep going. Despite his blatant efforts to manipulate and use the naive boy, Willy finds himself increasingly looking out for Thurman's best interests. By the film's finale the pair's unlikely friendship inspires Willy to a selflessness worthy of St. Nick. Laugh all the way this Christmas with Bad Santa.

The film brings it off beat tale of yuletide larceny to uproarious life thanks to the work of its cast. Lauren Graham blends sultriness and sweetness as local bartender turned Willy's love interest, Sue. John Ritter turns in a hilariously neurotic turn worthy of Gene Wilder as store manager, Bob. Bernie Mac balances smooth and sinister as the store's unscrupulous security guard, Gin. Tony Cos steals each scene in which he appears as Willy's sharp-witted partner, Marcus. Brett Kelly lends the film its heart as innocence and wonder of Christmas personified, Thurman. Billy Bob Thorton is nothing short of iconic as Willy. In his hands, what easily could have been a one-note caricature is instead a by turns tragic, hilarious, and surprisingly touching portrait of a man in desperate need of redemption.

At once a pitch-black comedy and a heartfelt tribute to the holiday spirit Bad Santa is a modern Christmas classic. The script balances black humor with yuletide sentiment to expert effect. The performances bring each of the characters to uproarious, unforgettable, life. This Christmas sike your eggnog and embark upon some holiday hijinks with Bad Santa.

Classics: A Review of Edward Scissorhands By Lauren Ennis

"No matter what, Edward will always be special" Peg Buggs proudly declares of her young protege, Edward. Thirty-five years after its release, Edward Scissorhands remains as special to generations of viewers. Blending the gothic with the modern the film serves as an ode to the individual in a conformist world. Carve your own path with Edward Scissorhands.

The story begins with an eccentric inventor creating a living young man whom he names Edward. Unfortunately, the inventor dies of a sudden heart attack before completing Edward's hands, leaving the boy with scissors where his hands should be. Under-socialized Edward is then left to fend for himself until Peg Boggs arrives selling Avon. Kind and optimistic Peg welcomes the young man into her home and invites him to become part of her family. Life with the Boggs' has a profound effect on Edward as he slowly begins to assimilate into their suburban neighborhood. His newfound happiness is soon threatened, however, when several of the locals exploit his trusting nature and threaten to drive him out of town when he tries to defend himself. It is his budding love for Peg's teenage daughter, Kim, that ultimately gives him the strength to remain true to himself amidst the onslaught of duplicity and conformity. What ensues is an ode to the eccentric in us all that is certain to soften even the hardest of hearts.

Inspired by Burton's own experiences as an awkward, artistic, teen in Burbank, California Edward Scissorhands is a testament to the power of art and the artist's vital place in society. Through its depiction of Edward's efforts to fit in the film aptly captures the artist's eternal struggle between originality and belonging. Upon his initial arrival he is treated as a local curiosity and his talents are welcomed by bemused neighbors. As the novelty inevitably wears thin, however, his eccentricities devolve from endearing to odd. While he struggles to navigate his new life his missteps begin to garner scorn and suspicion rather than sympathy. Edward's journey from unwitting local celebrity to social pariah mirrors the all too familiar rise and fall of many artists. Much like Edward, many artists are initially embraced for their originality. When familiarity breeds fatigue, however, the very admirers who catapulted the artist to fame will then tear that same artist's work to the ground. Similarly, Edward's struggle between his desperate need to belong and his inability to conform is directly reminiscent of the artist's need and desire for acceptance even as their artistic nature prevents them ever truly fitting in. Even as the town turns on its unusual hero, Edward's legacy lives on through the hearts he inspired, minds he changed, and the unique, inimitable beauty of the snowflakes he created. In this way, the film serves as a heartening reminder of the vital, lasting, importance of art even if it is underappreciated or misunderstood. Fall in love with the artistry of Edward Scissorhands.

The film brings Tim Burton's whimsical vision to unforgettable life thanks to the work of its star-studded cast. Vincent Price blends heart and humor in his brief scene-stealing performance as the inventor. Alan Arkin infuses Boggs family patriarch, Bill, with dry wit and down to earth charm. Diane Weist is a delight as selfless, optimistic, Peg. Anthony Michael Hall is a villain you'll love to hate as Kim's callous boyfriend, Jim. Kathy Baker makes for an apt would-be femme fatale in her by turns sultry and desperate turn as Joyce. O-Lan Jones is hilarious in her hellish performance as religious zealot Esmeralda. Winona Ryder expertly captures Kim's evolution from selfish and impressionable teen to courageous young woman. Johnny Depp turns in arguably the best performance of his iconic career. In his hands, Edward is more than a novelty eccentric or fish out of water and instead that most rare of wonders, a pure-hearted soul.  

Thirty-five years after its release Edward Scissorhands remains every bit as original, tender, and inspiring as it's title hero. The script casts a magical spell as it weaves a mesmerizing modern fairytale. The cast bring Burton's vision to heartfelt, unforgettable, life. The film's tagline said "Edward's story will touch you, even if he can't"; nearly forty years later it still does.