Classics: A Review of Muppet Treasure Island By Lauren Ennis

 On August 26, 2026 Tim Curry passed away at the age of eighty. In tribute to his legendary career, this week I'll be turning the spotlight onto the film that introduced me to his work, 1996's adventure-comedy Muppet Treasure Island. This crowd pleaser blends the adventure of Robert Louis Stevenson's classic novel with the madcap hijinks of the Muppets. What ensues is an adaptation for the whole family. Set sail with Kermit, Piggy, and Tim Curry in Muppet Treasure Island.

The story begins in 1700's England with orphan Jim Hopkins working at a local inn. When he isn't working, he spends his days listening to customers' tales of life on the high seas, especially ex-pirate Billy Bones' stories of Captain Flint's buried treasure. One night, Bones' former shipmates arrive and deliver the 'black spot', signaling that they have marked him for execution. Panicked, Bones has a heart attack on the spot. As he lay dying he gives Jim a map to Captain Flint's treasure with orders to keep it safe from a mysterious 'one-legged man'. With the help of half-witted Squire Trelawney Jim and his friends Gonzo and Rizzo et sail for the Carribbean. The friends are quickly befriended by the ship's charming, one-legged, cook, Long John Silver. Silver manipulates Jim into giving him the map and later takes him hostage. What follows is the ultimate swashbuckling showdown between Silver's pirates and the ship's crew.

Blending classic literature with whimsy and slapstick Muppet Treasure Island is a firm reminder that the Muppets is one of those rare franchises that truly is fun for the whole family. The film remains largely faithful to the original novel and captures the spirit of adventure that made it a classic. The film refuses to talk down to its young viewers and ensures that the story's darker elements remain intact. In this way, the film offers a family friendly means through which to explore such mature themes as greed, disillusionment, and betrayal. Even as it relates its high action adventure, the film still offers plenty of laughs courtesy of the Muppets signature mayhem. Alternating between standard slapstick and 90's commentary and literary spoof, the film's unique blend of action and humor ensures that parents will be entertained alongside their kids. For 'something better' for viewers of all ages, answer the call to adventure in Muppet Treasure Island.

The film transports viewers to the high seas thanks to the stellar work of its cast. Jennifer Saunders is nothing short of 'absolutely fabulous' in her brief turn as stern but kind inn-keeper Mrs. Bluveridge. Billy Connolly turns in a hilariously hammy performance as drunken ex-pirate Billy Bones. Kevin Bishop infuses Jim with idealism and integrity. Even in the midst of the Muppets madcap antics Tim Curry dominates the film as the equal parts smooth and sinister Long John Silver.

Balancing high adventure with hijinks Muppet Treasure Island is truly fun for the whole family. The script relates a largely faithful adaptation of the classic novel while infusing it with just enough of the Muppets' anarchic spirit to keep even the youngest of viewers engaged. The live-action and voice cast alike bring Stevenson's iconic characters to colorful, fresh, life. For a hidden gem for your next family movie night join the treasure hunt on Muppet Treasure Island.

Classics: A Review of Steel Magnolias By Lauren Ennis

 On August 25, 2026 American icon Dolly Parton passed away at age 80. In honor of the beloved singer, songwriter, and actress I'll be turning the spotlight onto one of her most popular films; 1989's Steel Magnolias. This slice of life dramedy celebrates family, friendship, and southern culture at its most hospitable. Over three decades after its release, Steel Magnolias remains must-see viewing for mothers, daughters, and anyone who has ever needed a friend. 

The story begins in small-town Louisiana with recent arrival Annelle applying for a new job at local beautician Truvy's in-home salon. At the salon, Annell meets Truvy's colorful customers; wealthy widow Clairee, curmudgeon Ouiser, and mother-daughter duo M'Lynn and Shelby. The women welcome awkward outsider Annell into their circle and over the course of the following year the group face tragedy and triumph. Through it all, they find comfort and solace in their fellow steely-spined southern magnolias.

Through its earnest depiction of a group of friends facing life's everyday obstacles Steel Magnolias acts as an ode to the power of friendship. Each of the characters is confronted with varying degrees of adversity, but all of them find comfort and strength in each other. Even when they disagree, their support for one another remains unwavering. In their efforts to bolster each other's spirits through humor, gossip, and the occasional makeover the women demonstrate how we can all get by with a little help from our friends. Next time you need a friend have a girls day with the ladies of Steel Magnolias.

The film transports viewers to the coziness of a small southern town thanks to the work of its star-studded cast. Darryl Hannah ditches her sultry image and is utterly convincing as straight-laced wallflower, Annelle. Shirley MacLaine steals each scene in which she appears as crotchety but ultimately good-hearted Ouiser. Olympia Dukakis blends sass with class as society widow Clairee. Julia Roberts balances rebelliousness with girl next door charm as willful Shelby. Sally Fields lends a by turns heartwarming and heartbreaking turn as overly protective M'Lynn. Dolly Parton is nothing short of delightful in her warm, witty, and ultimately inspiring portrayal of everyone's favorite confidante, Truvy.

This slice of Americana holds all the sweetness of a breath of fresh magnolias. The script brings Robert Harling's 1987 Broadway hit to vibrant, tear-jerking, life. The cast brings each of the characters to the screen with humor, warmth, and charm. When life gets you down treat yourself to some southern hospitality courtesy of the Steel Magnolias.

Classics: A Review of Lead Children By Lauren Ennis

"A doctor's responsibility doesn't stop at the clinic doors" physician Jolanta Wadowska-Krol declares. Netflix's 2026 critically acclaimed series chronicles just how far Dr. Wadowska-Krol was willing to go to expose the lead poisoning outbreak amongst her young patients. This true story of corruption, oppression, illness, and resilience proves that history can truly be more strange, devastating, and ultimately inspiring than fiction. Discover one of modern history's unsung heroes in Lead Children.

The story begins in 1974 Poland. The Cold War is at its height and the people are caught in the iron grip of communist oppression. After earning the ire of the state, idealistic doctor Jolanta is transferred to the working-class city of Szopience. When one of the children in her neighborhood collapses at a local fair she struggles to diagnose his mysterious illness. Soon after, she begins noticing that an unusual number of her pediatric patients are suffering from anemia. When the state begins hiding the ill children at facilities across the region she realizes that there are greater forces at play and launches her own investigation. She quickly confirms that the children are being poisoned by the lead emissions from the local metal smelter. When she brings her findings to the local authorities she earns the mistrust of the locals, who rely upon the smelter for their jobs, and security and state officials, who deem her a threat to the status quo. She then finds herself caught in web of political intrigue and bureaucratic corruption as she races against time to get the children treated before its too late.

Lead Children blends the best of medical dramas and political thrillers to shed vital light upon a largely forgotten chapter of history. Viewers begin the series fully aware that the children of Szopience are suffering from lead poisoning. Despite that spoiler, however, the depiction of Jolanta's investigation contains so many twists and turns that viewers will still be on the edge of their seats. Additionally, the series' portrayal of the impact of contamination upon the children and the community at large is nothing short of harrowing. While the series follows the familiar beats of such contamination related dramas as Erin Brokovich and A Civil Action it sets itself apart by placing its story within the greater context of communist oppression. By exposing the smelter's toxicity, Jolanta also exposes the corruption, negligence, and political machinations of the Soviet government, making her an enemy of the state. As a result, her life is every bit as at risk as those of her patients. In its portrayal of Jolanta's fearless efforts to resist state oppression and cure her patients, the series relates a tale of real-life heroism that serves as an apt reminder of the difference that one person can make. Discover one of history's most compelling unsung heroes in Lead Children.

The performances brilliantly bring the harrowing reality of life behind the iron curtain to the screen. Kinga Pries infuses Jolanta's friend and colleague nurse Wieslawa Wilczek with warmth and earnestness. Agata Kulesza captures the political savviness, intelligence, and determination of Jolanta's partner in her crusade, Professor Krystyna Berger. Zbigniew Zamachowski aptly portrays Jolanta's husband, Zbigniew Krol's, devotion to his wife and fears for his family with depth and nuance. Michal Zurawski blends calculation, callousness, and charm as secret police officer Hubert Niedziela. Even in the midst of superb supporting performances, Joanna Kulig dominates the series in her magnetic turn as Jolanta.

At once a harrowing look into the horrors of state oppression and a testament to the power of the human spirit Lead Children makes for six of the most compelling hours in modern television. The script brings a dark chapter of Poland's history to light with striking accuracy and devastating realism. The performances transport viewers to the gritty, contaminated, streets of Szponiece. Follow Jolanta on the trail of justice in Lead Children.

Classics: A Review of The Devil Wears Prada By Lauren Ennis

How far would you go to climb the corporate ladder? Is a staying at a toxic job today worth the opportunities it may bring tomorrow? Are you defined by your job? These are the questions that plague the modern professional and lie at the heart of the 2006 dramedy The Devil Wears Prada. Through its depiction of one employee's efforts to survive a hellish boss the film raises vital questions surrounding the modern workforce and the meaning of success. For devilish fun clock in with Andy and Miranda in The Devil Wears Prada.

 

The story begins with recent college grad Andy searching for her first job in journalism. While she dreams of writing hard-hitting exposes she reluctantly takes a job at high-end fashion magazine Runway. While she initially dismisses her position as a temporary resume builder, she soon finds herself swept into the ruthless world of high-fashion and under the influence of her manipulative boss, Miranda. What begins as a mere day job soon spirals into an all-consuming lifestyle as one by one each of Andy's personal relationships and passions are put aside in the name of meeting Miranda's impossible standards. Andy is ultimately forced to face her own demons and decide if she's willing to make a devilish deal with Miranda.

For a film about the elite world of high-fashion, The Devil Wears Prada continues to delight viewers across the work force and it's little wonder why. Andy's increasingly outrageous efforts to survive her toxic job lend themselves to plenty of laughs while still being all too relatable. Even as the film keeps the jokes coming, the script does not shy away from the darker truths about Andy's situation. For example, the film expertly depicts the ways in which a lack of work-life-balance can negatively impact our relationships as Andy prioritizes her job over her family, friendships, and love life. Over time, her dedication to her job becomes so extreme that she alters her appearance, personal hobbies, and interests all in an effort to be the best representative of Runway that she can be. While her efforts do allow her to advance at the magazine, they also force her to compromise her values and relinquish her original goals. the film's portrayal of her ultimately hollow victory perfectly demonstrates the ways in which all too many of us reach the top of the corporate ladder only to realize that the most important things were the ones that we gave up along the way. For a comedy that will keep you working for the weekend, strut your stuff with Andy and Miranda in The Devil Wears Prada.

The film brings the world of high-fashion to colorful life thanks to the stellar work of its cast. Adrian Grenier infuses Andy's boyfriend, Nate, with warmth and boy next door charm. Emily Blunt masterfully balances loyal assistant Emily's outward arrogance and inner desperation. Stanley Tucci infuses fashion director Nigel with biting wit and surprising heart. Anne Hathaway makes for an ideal everywoman as she channels Andy's inner journey from innocent new hire to hardened veteran employee. Meryl Streep turns in a tour de force performance as she perfectly blends cool charisma with cold calculation as Miranda.

Twenty years later The Devil Wears Prada remains every bit as biting and relevant as it was upon its release. The script pokes hilarious fun at the fashion industry while still being relatable for anyone convinced that they're working the job from Hell. The performances blend high-fashion hijinx with biting social commentary to expert effect. For a devilishly good time open the pages of Runway with Andy and Miranda in The Devil Wears Prada.

Classics: A Review of Heidi By Lauren Ennis

They say that home is where the heart is and that quote has rarely rang more true than when applied to the character of Heidi. The 1880 children's novel remains a beloved classic over a century after its initial publication and has gone on to inspire dozens of adaptations film adaptations. One of the lesser known, but arguably one of the best, of these adaptations of the novel is Disney's 1993 television miniseries. This adaptation faithfully recounts the beloved tale of one girl's journey to find her home with an authenticity, sincerity, and beauty that ensure it more than earns it's place on the shelf and in the hearts of the whole family.

"It is good to be on the mountain; body and soul get well there"

The story begins with infant Heidi's parents storming off following a heated argument with her grandfather. Shortly after, she is orphaned when her parents are killed in a tragic accident. The story then flashes ahead five years and reveals that Heidi has been living with her cousin Dete while her grandfather has lived in seclusion in the mountains. When she is offered a lucrative position in the city, Dete decides that she has shouldered the burden of Heidi's care long enough. She brings the little girl to the Alps to live with her grandfather, despite his reputation as a reclusive madman. Her grandfather is initially resentful of Heidi and sees her presence as a painful reminder of his own guilt and bitterness. Over time, however, the child's innocence and kindness prove infectious not just to her grandfather but to their entire community. Similarly, the liberation and inspiration of the mountains work their own magic and heal Heidi's loss and loneliness. Just as the unlikely duo begin to build a new life for themselves, however, Dete returns and upends Heidi's life yet again. She forces her young cousin to take a position working as a companion to a disabled young girl in Frankfurt. The confines of city living soon take a toll on Heidi and leave her a quiet, conventional, shadow of her former self. Will Heidi ever return to her beloved mountain and if she does will it still be the home that she remembers?

Disney's adaptation of Heidi sets itself apart from other adaptations ironically by being the least 'Disney-ified' telling of the classic tale. While other adaptations have resorted to a sugary sweetness that has made Heidi pop-culture shorthand for sentimentality, the miniseries refuses to shy away from the darker aspects of the original novel. Rather than an plucky orphan in the style of Annie or Pollyanna, Heidi is instead a kind, but still frightened and wounded, child struggling with loss and repeated abandonment. As a result, she is a heroine young viewers will relate to as well as root for. Similarly, rather than just a grouch, her grandfather is a man tormented by a guilt, bitterness, and regret that have driven him into a deep depression. The journey that both undergo as they learn to open themselves up to not just one another but also the wider world is nothing short of inspiring. Even the supporting characters undergo emotional transformations as Klara is forced to confront her insecurities and possessiveness and Peter must come to terms with the wider world beyond the safe familiarity of his isolated village. As a result this Heidi is less a moralistic aspirational tale than a complex coming of age story. Discover the beauty and wonder of the Alps and maybe even yourself along the way with Heidi.

"The happiest of all things is when an old friend comes and greets us"

The miniseries transports viewers to the majesty of the Alps thanks to the work of its cast. Jane Hazelgrove perfectly captures the callousness of Heidi's selfish cousin, Dete. Jane Seymour makes for a formidable, but all too human, villain as Klara's overly protective governess, Fraulein Rottenmeier. Sian Phillips infuses Klara's grandmother, Frau Sesemann with gentleness and warmth. Benjamin Brazier personifies boy next door charm as Heidi's best friend, Peter. Patricia Neal lends humor and wit to her turn as Peter's grandmother. Lexi Randall aptly portrays Klara's loneliness and insecurity. Jason Robards is the ultimate curmudgeon with a heart of gold as Heidi's gruff but loving grandfather. Noely Thornton shines in a portrayal of Heidi that avoids becoming saccharine through a unique blend of earnestness, quiet strength, and empathy.

1993's Heidi is certain to delight fans of the original novel and newcomers to the Alpine adventure alike. The script relates Johanna Spyri's beloved novel with sincerity and authenticity without veering into sugary sentimentality. The performances bring the familiar characters to colorful life and the filming locations in the Austrian Alps are nothing short of majestic. Escape the hustle and bustle of modern living with Heidi.

The hills are alive...

International Readership!

 Hello Readers,

Just shout-out to the Dubai Public Library, Gail Borden Public Library, and Black Gold Library Cooperative for sharing A Boy's Best Comrade with readers around the world!

Classics: A Review of A League of Their Own By Lauren Ennis

 "There's no crying in baseball!" curmudgeonly coach Jimmy Duggan declares in the 1992 crowd-pleaser A League of Their Own. The irony is that by the end of this historical sports drama even the most hardened of viewers will have a lump in their throat. Blending comedy, drama, and heart the film pays apt homage to the great American pass time and the people who love it most. For a sports film that continues to score big hit the field with the ladies of the Rockford Peaches with A League of Their Own.

The story begins in 1988 with elderly Dottie Hinson attending the opening of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League exhibit at the Baseball Hall of Fame. The film then flashes back to 1943 when the nation was embroiled in World War II and professional sports were all but over. In an effort to revive the dying professional sports industry and boost national morale several MLB team owners band together to form a women's league. Ace catcher Dottie is spotted at a local softball game by scout Ernie Capadino. While Dottie is content in her marriage to a local soldier and work at a dairy her sister Kit is desperate to escape their small town. Ernie then reveals that he will only allow Kit to try out as pitcher if Dottie agrees to try out as well. Both sisters are then recruited for the Rockford Peaches along with a colorful cast of misfits worthy of the Bad News Bears. The team soon enlists the services of alcoholic former Cubs star Jimmy Duggan as manager. So begins a season that makes for the ultimate Cinderella story and an enduring tribute to the great American pass time.

Over thirty years after its release this feel good sports dramedy remains in a league of its own. The film sheds light upon a fascinating but largely forgotten moment in history, while relating an all-American tale of opportunity and teamwork. Despite its often light-hearted tone, the film wisely does not shy away from the sexism and limitations that the players faced. Instead, the film uses those obstacles to relate a tale of the American Dream as the women use a combination of individual skill and grit along with teamwork to overcome that adversity. The film also highlights the ways in which baseball provides the women the opportunity to overcome their personal struggles as each of the players uses their success on the field to build a better future off of it. For a sports movie that is sure to get you cheering run the bases with the Rockford Peaches in A League of Their Own.

The story comes to bey turns heartfelt and hilarious life thanks to the work of its star-studded cast. Jon Lovitz is bitingly funny as talent scout Ernie. Megan Cavanagh lends heart and humor to "homely" tomboy Marla. Rosie O'Donnell blends wisdom with wisecracks as street-wise Doris. Madonna infuses what could have easily have been a one-note-role as sexy taxi dancer Mae with world-weariness and humor. Lori Petty infuses Kit with a scrappiness and charm that ensures viewers will sympathize with her desperate desire to escape her sister's shadow. Tom Hanks turns in one of the most entertaining performances of his career as hard drinking tough talking manager. Jimmy. Geena Davis makes for a compelling leading lady as she blends intelligence, grit, and warmth, as team team captain, Dottie.

Through its expert blend of fact, fiction, comedy, and drama, A League of Their Own makes for a delightful slice of American pie. The script brings history to life while still maintaining a human heart. The cast ensure that viewers will be rooting for the Peaches just as hard as the teams' fans. Celebrate the great American pass time and step up to the plate with the Peaches in A League of Their Own.