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Review: Walt Disney’s Frozen 3D

November 27, 2013 by Mama Carmody 1 Comment

Review: Walt Disney’s Frozen 3D

Disclaimer: I was given 2 tickets to attend the screening of Disney’s Frozen; however, I was not influenced by the promotional materials. All opinions and insights are my own.

I absolutely love Disney films; always have, always will. My “baby” is 23 years old, so it has been a while since I have seen a Disney film at the theater. I still watch the older ones, if I see they are on TV or I find them on Netflix, but it has been several years since I’ve seen a new one. I believe the last Disney movie I saw at the theater was, “Lilo and Stitch”, in 2002. This information was leading up to me saying, “Disney still has it!” They know how to make a great family film.

I’m old school, so I believe all Disney movies should be rated G but that’s not the case. Disney’s Frozen is rated PG. (You can find more information about movie rating on the Motion Picture Association of America website.) As I watched the movie, I couldn’t figure out why it had a PG rating. Everything seemed quite mild; no intense fighting scenes, no profane language…then HE appeared!…

Disney's FROZEN (Pictured) MARSHMALLOW. ©2013 Disney. All Rights Reserved. — Disney’s FROZEN (Pictured) MARSHMALLOW. ©2013 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

a GREAT BIG snow monster. He makes the Abominable Snowman from “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” look like a kitty cat. The good news?…he is only around for a couple of scenes.

Now on with the story. I’m not sure how Disney is going to promote this but, in my opinion, they have two new Princesses (although one does become Queen). They are sisters; Elsa and Anna. Elsa is the big sister and she has a secret she must keep from her little sister to keep her safe. This brings division between them that Anna never understands. In order to protect her sister, Elsa ends up fleeing to the mountains but Anna follows after her. Anna teams up with rugged (but tender-hearted) mountain man Kristoff and his loyal reindeer, Sven, to go find her sister. Although Elsa was trying to save Anna, in the end, Anna saves her big sister. The sweet and accident-prone snowman, Olaf, adds much humor to the movie.

"FROZEN" (Pictured) OLAF. ©2013 Disney. All Rights Reserved. — “FROZEN” (Pictured) OLAF. ©2013 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

I love a good musical and this film could almost be classified as a musical. There are so many great songs; some beautiful and serious and others are just down-right fun.

The animations are gorgeous, as usual. Several of the 3D effects with the snow and ice are breath-taking.

"FROZEN" (Pictured) ELSA. ©2013 Disney. All Rights Reserved. — “FROZEN” (Pictured) ELSA. ©2013 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

I was definitely not disappointed, in my return to the theater, to see a Disney movie. This is a great story of love, family and courage. I encourage you to gather the family and head to the theater and enjoy, what will probably become, another Disney classic.

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Studio Movie Grill Review

November 4, 2013 by Mama Carmody 7 Comments

Studio Movie Grill Review

Disclaimer: I was given 4 tickets to attend the movie of my choice, at the Studio Movie Grill, as well as 8 tickets to use in a give-away. However, I was not influenced by the promotional materials. All opinions and insights are my own. (Update 11/08/13, Congratulation to Kelly Bradbury and Karey for each winning a set of 4 tickets.)

The Studio Movie Grill is definitely a new way to experience the movies. The Studio Movie Grill offers original first-run movies coupled with in-theater dining. It is located just off of Michigan Road on 86th Street, at 3535 West 86th Street.

When I was contacted by the Studio Movie Grill about doing a review I first asked them if they showed many children’s movies, since my audience is mostly family oriented. They informed me that they show many first-run children and family movies. In addition, they also have a special “Kids Toons” series every weekend morning and tickets are only $2 each. Also, one Saturday each month SMG hosts the “Special Needs Screening”; a special presentation of a current release with free tickets for children with special needs and their siblings, and only $6 for adults.

I must be honest and say, my first impressions with the Studio Movie Grill were not favorable. I did not have much success in getting information on the movie we wanted to go see. First I went to their website, www.studiomoviegrill.com, and looked over the movies that were available. I watched several trailers and settled on a child friendly movie (since I am a kid at heart), Free Birds (3D). I clicked on the time we wanted to go see and received a message that they had just sold out for that viewing so I chose a different time and got the same message. After several attempts, I finally realized it was a glitch in the way their website behaved and was able to find a time that was available (a time that had previously said wasn’t available). As I looked at my options to continue the order I wasn’t sure how to show that I all ready had tickets. At this point I decided to read the information on my ticket. (I have a bit of a problem with reading instructions until after I’m having difficulties) It states on the pass that it can’t be used for online sales so I tried to call the theater…more frustrations. Although there was an option to speak to someone in the box office I was sent to a voicemail box. I didn’t want to leave a message, I wanted to know if there were seats available for the showing I was interested in. I was not impressed that I couldn’t get hold of an actual person to answer my questions. I decided that since the passes couldn’t be used online there must be seats available even if you don’t have a reservation so we headed out.

I was pleasantly surprised when we entered The Studio Movie Grill. It resembles an upscale club. You won’t find a concession stand or a heavy smell of popcorn and old butter. There is a very modern look to the lobby. To the left of the entrance is a lounge/bar area for the grown-ups. It sets behind a high partial wall so it is not the center of attention. Because of the way it is positioned it makes a cozy place for grown-ups to hang out but if you are bringing the family in for a movie it will hardly be noticed.

Once you purchase your tickets they ask you to take a look at a small computer-sized screen, that is set in the counter in front of you, and choose which of the available seats you want to sit in. They then print out and hand you the tickets with your row and seat number on them. There were two girls at the ticket check stand. One checked our tickets and the other took us to our seats. The rows are wide so it’s easy to get in and out (and easy for the servers to get to you).

The seats are large and comfortable with trays that swivel so you can get in and out of your seat.

Studio Movie Grill - Large comfortable seats — Studio Movie Grill – Large comfortable seats

Shortly after we were seated a server came by with menus. On each tray is a button that you push to let your server know you are ready to order.

We got lost trying to find the theater so we were running a little late but I highly recommend that you follow their suggestion and arrive at least 20 minutes early. They suggest you do this so you can order your food well before the movie starts. It didn’t take them long to bring our food to us but because it was so close to time for the movie to start, when we ordered, it didn’t arrive until after the movie began. The problem with that was that it was so dark we couldn’t see what we were doing. The theater has no problem with bringing food to you whenever you want it. Their site states: “Order as much and as often as you like throughout the show.”

The food was delicious. My favorite was the appetizer; chicken nachos. We will definitely be ordering that again. My husband and I both ordered burgers. The burgers were thick and tender. We both had sweet potato fries as our sides. They were a little cold but well seasoned. They have a wide variety of choices on their menu. We could have chosen a turkey or black bean burger rather than the beef. They boast an evolving menu of over 100 items ranging from delicious appetizers, healthy choices, entrée salads, gourmet pizzas, a kids menu and desserts. Their prices are reasonable. I would say they are along the same lines as Chili’s or Applebee’s. You don’t have to order food at all or you can go with the traditional popcorn and soda.

From what I researched Studio Movie Grill’s ticket prices are the same as other theaters. They are not charging you extra for the nicer theater and the wonderful food service.

Although I had a rough start, in trying to get information from their website and box office, it turned out to be a wonderful evening. I would highly recommend the Studio Movie Grill for a unique family activity or possibly a special date night for a parent and child. It would also make a great date night for mom and dad. They deserve and need a special night every once in a while. I know we will be returning. Maybe we will see you there.

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Review: Walt Disney’s Frozen 3D

Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie Review

October 13, 2013 by Mama Carmody 7 Comments

Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie Review

Disclaimer: I was given 2 tickets to attend the Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie, as well as a backpack with some goodies. However, I was not influenced by the promotional materials or any of the Conner Prairie staff. All opinions and insights are my own.

Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie: Hot Air Balloon

Even before we reached Conner Prairie, we could see the hot air balloon, from the 1859 Balloon Voyage, floating high in the sky. My husband was quite interested in the balloon ride but with the cost of a ride being $15 a piece ($12 for members) it was way out of our price range. If they would lower that price to somewhere between $5 and $7 they would quite possibly have waiting lines for that ride all the time. At the lower prices, we would probably take a ride every time we went to Conner Prairie but at the current prices I don’t know that we will ever participate in the 1859 Balloon Voyage.

The first activity we participated in was the Headless Horseman hayride. If you missed my post from yesterday here is the link to that: Review: The Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie.

If your children are young and you aren’t interested in the hayride don’t write off the idea of making a trip to Conner Prairie. There was still a lot of spooky fun happening even without the hayride.

I love the idea behind their theme this year. Conner Prairie has been renamed Conner Scairie for this holiday season. The former mayor, Lord Moldywart, had a problem with a spell he was trying to cast and turned himself into a bunny rabbit.

Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie: Mayor Moldywart

He is cute but he can no longer fulfill the role of mayor so a new mayor must be elected. There are six citizens that are vying for the new position. It is our job to go around and meet each of them and then vote for the one that we want to become Mayor of Conner Scairie.

The first candidate we ran into was Harry Howler. He was standing outside a tent encouraging passersby to join him at the microphone for some scary-o-ke. There were some kids doing a great job with The Monster Mash when we stopped in. Harry also had a couple of craft tables as well as some fun activities outside his tent.

Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie: Fun at Harry Howler's — Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie: Fun at Harry Howler’s

The next candidate we ran into was Beautisha, the cosmetics-loving witch. She also had a craft area and she was more than happy to hand out beauty tips.

We didn’t get to catch her show but we got to peek in at the stage and costumes. Looks like it would be a blast to strut up and down the runway.

Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie: Beautisha's Costume Runway — Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie: Beautisha’s Costume Runway

Our next candidate to meet was little Miss Holly Ween. She was adorable. She reads spooky stories to the kids. She told us that this was her favorite story.

Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie: Holly Ween Collage

There was a large play area, associated with her section, for children 8 years old and younger. You can wind through bales of hay and then zoom down a slide on a burlap sack. There was a lot of action going on in the area. Several children were enjoying the play equipment.

Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie: Holly Ween's Play Area — Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie: Holly Ween’s Play Area

Next we ran into Ed, the mad scientist, and his assistant, Esmeralda. They were having fun with electricity. It played havoc with my camera but it still looked pretty neat. They cooked a hotdog with an electrical arc. It was fascinating to watch but I think I will stick with my microwave.

Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie: Ed's Electrical Spectacle — Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie: Ed’s Electrical Spectacle

We missed Dr. Acula but we did get to look around his monster museum. My favorite pieces were Little Red Riding Hood’s cape and a hairball from Big Foot. He had a craft area for the kids, too.

Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie: Monster Museum Collage

I forgot to mention that the Headless Horseman is also a candidate. I’m not sure what I think of electing a mayor with no head but I suspect he is using fear to intimidate the voters.

There were plenty of other activities going on that I don’t believe were associated with the candidates. We enjoyed watching the Flying Monkeys. They used a large slingshot type contraption to send the monkeys flying through the air.

Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie: Flying Monkeys

If you have been following my posts for very long, you know I love introducing children to music so of course one of my favorite spots was Rhythm Fun with Bill Bailey. Look at the kids having fun with all of those instruments.

Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie: Rhythm Collage

Another fun spot was the face painting. This family was kind enough to let me take pictures of the process.

Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie: face painting

They sure are a cute bunch of kids.

Spooky Fun at Conner Prairie: Face Painting Fun

As I look over the program from the evening, I realize that we missed a few things such as the Marionette Show and the Crane Bros. Superstition Emporium. We passed by the Mystic and the Magic Show with C.R. Ryan Demier but didn’t get a chance to stop in for the activities.

As you can tell, there is a lot of spooky fun happening at Conner Prairie to keep you busy for quite a while. Even if your children are younger, and you don’t want to do the hayride, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy. You may even want to come back more than once to experience all the spooky fun.

The Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie Review

October 12, 2013 by Mama Carmody 3 Comments

The Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie Review

Disclaimer: I was given 2 tickets to attend The Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie, as well as a backpack with some goodies. However, I was not influenced by the promotional materials or any of the Conner Prairie staff. All opinions and insights are my own.

It has been approximately ten years since we last attended The Headless Horseman at Conner Prairie. Our daughter was somewhere between 10 and 13 years old. At that time we chose to take the hayride after dark. We thought it would be a little scarier and I guess we were right. When talking to my (now adult) daughter about that night, I said, “Remember how much fun we had?” Her response was, “No! I’m still scarred!” I guess we were right; that going after dark was scary.

Headless Horseman hayride, at Conner Prairie

Since, currently, my blog posts mainly center around activities for younger children we opted to go on the Hayride before it got dark. First of all, let me tell you that the lines are extremely long. Once our turn came up a guide
walked us back to where we climbed into the hay wagons and waited to start our adventure. We were asked not to take pictures during the hayride because it could spook the horses and we definitely wouldn’t want to do that. But I was told that I could take a picture before we pulled out.

I’m not going to give out all the details because I don’t want to spoil the fun for future adventurers but I will share my general thoughts. It is a nice hayride with spooky sights and sounds around every turn. There was a 3 year old little girl in the wagon with us and her older brother who seemed like he was between 5 and 7 years old. The 3 year old cried on and off through the ride. She was visibly shaken and nervous even when she wasn’t crying. Her older brother just seemed to enjoy the whole thing. As for me, I loved it, but I must be honest, when the Headless Horseman rode right up to our wagon and hit the outside of it with his sword it made me laugh nervously, lean forward a little and watch him out of the corner of my eye.

My advice would be to take the hayride during the daylight for younger children. It was still plenty spooky without scaring you out of your wits. I personally wouldn’t take a child 3 years old or younger on this hayride at all but if you have a tough little one that loves monsters and being scared then they may be just fine. For the real adventure, wait until after dark to go. It is pretty scary when the Headless Horseman comes riding out of the dark after you.

Even if you aren’t interested in the hayride there are plenty of other activities to do with the kids so don’t write the adventure off yet. Tomorrow, I will post about all the other fun things that were going on during this special evening.

Rhythm! Discovery Center Review

October 9, 2013 by Mama Carmody 15 Comments

Rhythm! Discovery Center Review

On Saturday, September 28th, we took advantage of the free admission offer by Smithsonian Magazine and headed to the Rhythm! Discovery Center. I would describe Rhythm! Discovery Center as an interactive percussion museum. There are several “hands-off” displays of different percussion instruments but I must admit that I didn’t really pay much attention to them. We were all about the hands-on pieces; and since we brought a 2 year old with us there was plenty of “hands-on” everywhere we went.

Here are a couple of the “hands-off” displays:

Rhythm! Discovery Center: "Hands-off" Displays — Rhythm! Discovery Center: “Hands-off” Displays

Let me warn you, if you or any of your children are sensitive to noise then this is not the place to go but if you don’t mind some good old fashion racket then you will have a blast.

One of the very first things we encountered was this huge drum. No, that it not just a large display, it’s a drum.

There are so many opportunities for learning at the Rhythm! Discovery Center. You could experiment with rhythms or the way different instruments made from different materials sound. For instance, how does a drum with an animal skin head sound different from a drum with a plastic head? Listen to how the drum sounds different from the cymbals.

Rhythm! Discovery Center: Different Mallets

You can experiment with how the drum sounds different if you hit it with your fingertips, the palm of your hand or your fist. There were also different things to play the instruments with so you can listen to the differences of playing with a hard mallet, a soft mallet or a brush (the musical kind, not the hair kind). You could also learn the names of the different instruments and from what country they originated.

The lessons we came to learn this day were simple (since we brought a 2 year old). We were simply experiencing the joy of sound and music. And there were secondary lessons like sharing and learning to wait your turn (which actually, he does very well).

Below are some of the pictures from our day:

The Cymbal

The Chimes
Children of all ages enjoy Rhythm! Discovery Center.

Wooden Instruments

The Percussion Wall

Rhythm! Discovery Center: Percussion Wall

Crash Cymbals
The cymbals were actually way too big but Jeremiah listened very closely to Uncle Pat’s instructions. I love the joy on his little face once he was able to crash them together.

So Much Fun
We truly enjoyed our time at Rhythm! Discovery Center and look forward to going back many more times.