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.