Showing posts with label movie. Show all posts
Showing posts with label movie. Show all posts

Friday, February 24, 2017

The countdown is on to the #Oscars one of the #movies NOT to miss is @LionMovie #LionHeart

@LionMovie #LionHeart The Moms Screening with Nicole Kidman Talkback Collage with Sunny Pawar
With 'Oscar Sunday' swiftly approaching, time is running out to catch up on the nominated movies. There are a few I have missed myself and need to catch up on, but there is one that I saw earlier this year before it's release that I wanted to make sure didn't slip under your radar.

I had the chance to attend a special screening of Lion Movie sponsored by Stop and Shop and Nature's Promise hosted by The Moms with a talk back with Nicole Kidman that had a special surprise at the end.

Movie Synopsis:

Five year old Saroo gets lost on a train which takes him thousands of miles across India, away from home and family. Saroo must learn to survive alone in Kolkata, before ultimately being adopted by an Australian Couple, when Saroo becomes an adult he journeys to India to find his family and explore his roots.

Here is a Video of the Talk Back with Nicole Kidman:


The special surprise at the end is Sunny Pawar who portrays young Saroo in the movie, his performance is completely absorbing, in fact the movie is very well cast. Long time readers know I was a Professional Film Critic many moons ago (yes you can get paid to watch movies and NO it's no where as glamorous as it sounds), and have been on a ton of real Press Junkets (please don't be mad blogger friends but the customized experiences film companies offer you is nothing like an actual junket - but that's a story for another day). I have had the chance to see Nicole Kidman do many interviews, but I haven't seen her nearly as animated, passionate and 'alive' as she was discussing this movie.

The movie deals with the very real and overwhelmingly heartbreaking reality of the over 80,000 children in India who go missing each year, and the Lion Movie has a giving initiative called #LionHeart that partners with organizations worldwide to help the children in India and all around the world. (The link in the second paragraph that leads to the movie official page has a donation link)

MY TAKE:

Both the film and Nicole Kidman are nominated for this Sunday's Oscars, and like each year I watch the award show I will not envy the committee. The films nominated are usually all powerful and moving and the actors have all delivered strong performances. I'm just afraid that this film will have slipped under the radar of so many and hope that as many of you as possible will take the time to watch it.

This is NOT a compensated post in any way, but Nature's Promise and Stop and Shop did sponsor the screening and gift bags. (Full Disclosure Butterflies).

Readers Sound Off: Which of the 2017 Oscar Nominated Films have YOU seen? Are there any you haven't yet seen that you will be binge watching before The Oscars this Sunday?

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FTC Disclosure: Access to special screening with talk balk was granted to Ascending Butterfly for Editorial Consideration and all thoughts and opinions are my own. This is NOT a compensated post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR Part 255  Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising see our  Disclosure Page for additional information.

Things that lure Ascending Butterfly out of her butterfly cocoon of fabulosity: Electronics/Technology (yes I am a Gadget Geek first!), Fashion, Jewelry, Bubbly/Spirits, Foodie/Restaurants, Photography and Travel. And remember Ascending Butterfly does NOT have children, please do not pitch her toys (at least not those that are intended for children).

Unless it's charity related, If a campaign doesn't pay, this butterfly won't want to play.

Smile if you got this far, twirl around twice and sing Mariah Carey's Butterfly. Still here? Now go make someone happy today.

Friday, December 18, 2015

{#FridayFlick} Reco @danishgirlmov Highlights from #TheDanishGirl NYC Advanced Screening event + Actor Talk Back! #movies #theater


With the holiday shopping season in full swing, the few times I have found myself last minute shopping or a last minute addition to my gift list to shop for, I have always made it a point to catch a movie as a way to unwind after shopping.

If you find yourself needing a break from the holiday shopping madness and find yourself by a theater playing The Danish Girl, I definitely recommend you go see it!

ABOUT:

The remarkable love story inspired by the lives of artists Lili Elbe and Gerda Wegener (portrayed by Academy Award Winner, Eddi Redmayne ["The Theory of Everything" - which I reviewed HERE] and Alicia Vikander ["Ex Machina"], directed by Academy Award Winner Tom Hooper ("The King's Speech," "Les Miserables"). Lili and Gerda's marriage and work evolve as they navigate Lili's groundbreaking journey as a transgender pioneer.

I had the opportunity to attend an Advanced Screening with Actor Talkback with co-star Alicia Vikander who portrays Gerda in the movie. The Advanced Screening was hosted by the dynamic duo  - Denise Albert and Melissa Musen Gerstein - we call "The Moms" in the Dolby 88 Screening Room in New York City!

On my way to the theater, this was my view:


Holidays in New York City takes on a magical quality and so many buildings and business go all out and put up such beautiful holiday trees!

The building where the screening took place also had a beautiful holiday tree indoors (and a coat clothing drive bin!):


We arrived to Coffee and Danishes of course! And we got to leave with a copy of the book - which I can't wait to dive into!


If you want to pick up the book too, check out our friends over at Amazon for a copy!


The movie is both powerful and moving and holds nothing back, for me seeing Eddie Redmayne dive into another equally intense role was fascinating to watch. He has a way of immersing himself in his roles and portrays the nuances of each of his characters perfectly. As convincing as he was as Stephen Hawking, he is as powerful and emotionally giving as Lili Elbe. There is actually no weak performance in the bunch, and Alicia Vikander who plays Gerda, gives the role the strength that is needed while never losing track of the vulnerability.

What stays with me after seeing it is how Gerda an independent spirit and tough girl in her own right, so easily not just accepts what is happening so much as becomes his immediate advocate and champion. I don't think most women could handle the situation the way Gerda does. With a love and friendship for her partner that is so strong she puts her own pain aside to be the friend that he needs during a journey of discovery and unknown.

Matthias Schoenaerts who plays Lili's old friend Hans Axgil also gives a very strong performance. (And of course much like anything with children and animals - the pet dog is a little scene stealer in his own right!)

After the film there was a talk back with Actress Alicia Vikander who portrays Gerda.

Left: Denise Albert, Center: Alicia Vikander, Right: Melissa Musen Gerstein
Much like Gerda, Alicia is very grounded and centered - just slightly more 'soft-spoken'. It was interesting getting her thoughts and insights into Gerda, and of course behind the scenes about the movie you don't see on film.

I am going to include the video of the Q&A, but there was a moment during the Questions and Answers where someone in the audience shared how much she related to the story and to Gerda, Alicia was very moved, and after the Talk-Back I was touched to see that Alicia made it a point to connect with the person who made the comment. I managed to capture that moment and couldn't resist sharing it here:


I hope neither of them mind, but this was such a poignant moment and one you don't always experience during press junkets and actor talk-back experiences. Just a real, raw moment and a genuine 'non-posed' connection.


One of the pro photogs in attendance managed to nab her for this shot and since I was close enough and thankfully my DSLR didn't take forever to warm up I managed to nab it too! I can see why the camera loves her, there is something just naturally 'soulful' and expressive about her.

Here is the Video of the Talk Back:



MY TAKE:

I think it's good for millenials to know that Bruce aka 'Caitlyn Jenner' is not a 'pioneer' in the world of Transgender, and seeing someone live through one of the first gender change surgeries and getting a such a raw and honest glimpse into that process was fascinating! This story is moving and powerful, but it's the way the subtle moments - like watching Lili learn to emulate the things women do naturally - a flirtatious gaze, smile or glance - and then the ramifications of doing so, her ease with managing the perfect cat eye, how lucky she was to have such a fierce partner and warrior in her Gerda.

This is definitely a bring your Kleenex type of movie but it's a good one!

Will you be catching any movies this Holiday Season in the Theater? Which ones?

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FTC Disclosure:  This is NOT a compensated/sponsored Post, All opinions are 100% my own! Tickets were provided for Editorial Consideration. This post also contains affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Thursday, September 17, 2015

I got to see @ParamountPics @Captive #movie before it hits theaters, and so can YOU #FollowYourPurpose

Captive Movie 2015 Theatrical Poster, Entertainment, Movies
"God changed me because he changed my life." ~Ashley Smith Robinson

God Changed My Life
Ashley Smith Robinson gave a 'soundbite' so powerful during her interview recently on the daytime television talk show "The View", that I knew I had to open with those words. That simple sentence IS everything and captures (no pun intended) the essence of the movie that tells the tale of a very harrowing experience that her quick thinking and her faith got her safely out of.

The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren, Book, Books

Can God and a Book Save YOUR Life?

Unlikely Angel by Ashley Smith, Book, Books

ABOUT:

Captive is a crime-drama thriller directed by Jerry Jameson which is based on the non-fiction book Unlikely Angel: The Untold Story of the Atlanta Hostage Hero by Ashley Smith. A very much true story about Brian Nichols (played in the movie David Oyelowo) who escapes from the Fulton County Courthouse in Atlanta - where he was on trial for a rape case (March 11, 2005) and holds Ashley Smith (played by Kate Mara) hostage. During Brian's escape he murders Judge Rowland Barnes, court reporter Julie Brandau and shoots Sergeant Hoyt Teasley while making his escape. He also kills Agent David G. Wilhelm. Brian kidnaps Ashley to use as a hostage. He manages to elude a statewide manhunt and takes Ashley who is a single mother struggling with Meth Addiction (at THAT time) hostage in HER OWN apartment. Over the course of the hours she is held hostage, Ashley desperately uses a book she had been given (one that she rejected when it was first offered to her, but thankfully the person was persistent), Rick Warren's The Purpose Driven Life - What On Earth Am I Here For? and reads from it as a way to reason with her captor who held her captive for SEVEN hours - with surprising results.

TRAILER:


SEE IT FIRST:

TODAY!!!!

Be the first to see the movie "Captive" at one-night only "Captive: Night Of Purpose" Events at Theaters Across the U.S. on Thursday, September 17th! Experience EXCLUSIVE content and conversations (moderated by Gayle King) with the Film's Cast (stars David Oyelowo and Kate Mara) and Filmmakers (Producer Terry Botwick) starting at 7:00 p.m. at participating theaters across the United States. For a list of participating theaters visit: http://captivemovieresources.com/nightofpurpose

Churches and Community Groups can host their own 'Night of Purpose Event'. Buy blocks of tickets or rent out a theater, learn more at http://captivemovieresources.com/hostapremiere or email info@captivemovieresources.com

Left: The real Ashley Smith Robinson now, Right: Actor David Oyelowo who plays her captor Brian Nichols in the movie Captive, in theaters September 18, 2015
Left: The real Ashley Smith Robinson now, Right: Actor David Oyelowo who plays her captor Brian Nichols in the movie Captive, in theaters September 18, 2015
MY TAKE:

This isn't a movie someone can give a 'thumbs up' or 'thumbs down' rating on, this is a TRUE STORY. This is Ashley's story. It's raw and honest. Her life is an open book and I can't imagine that being easy. Overcoming addiction, adjusting to life as a single mother and the night you start getting your new place ready for your little one and you, someone turns your world upside down and holds you hostage. In your own home. Think about that for a moment. Who needs a horror movie, when 'real life' provides the material for a nightmare come true?

Oddly shortly after seeing the press screening for this movie, I experienced being followed into my apartment complex, while it didn't get as bad as Ashley's ordeal (THANK GOD), writing this post was a bit difficult to do.

Want more of the story? You can find out where they are now by watching the all-new season of "Oprah: Where Are They Now?" which premieres on Saturday, September 19 at 10:00 PM on the OWN Television Network. (On the episode Ashley will meet her captor Brian's mother, Claritha Nichols for the first time!)

Today's Talking Points/Call to Action:

Have you ever read a book that changed your life? Please share it's title and author with us! Is there a book you constantly re-read? (does it seem like a new book each time? Reading a book you love with a large gap makes the book feel different, because you are different person in many ways from the last time you read it!) Has your Faith helped you get out of a difficult period in your life?

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FTC Disclosure: This is a NON -compensated post, no monetary compensation has been received. All my opinions are 100% MY OWN. I attended a Press Screening of the movie Captive. There are Amazon Affiliate Links in this post. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Monday, June 2, 2014

@disneypictures @Maleficent Monday! So is #Maleficent a Ticket or Skip It? {#Movie #Review}



Well! Well! If you are here I am taking it you haven't seen it yet, remedy that ASAP! Maleficent is a definite TICKET!

Synopsis:

This is the untold story of Disney's most iconic villain from "Sleeping Beauty" from HER perspective. It shows the elements of her betrayal that ultimately turn her pure heart to stone. This movie finds her driven by revenge and her desire to protect the moors, the dominion in which she lives and presides. Of course you know she places a curse on Princess Aurora who gets caught in the middle of the forest kingdom she grows to love and the kingdom that is her legacy.























My Take:

Butterflies this is NOT your Grandma's Sleeping Beauty tale, it is re-visited, but most importantly, completely re-imagined, the CGI isn't the only thing telling the tale, everyone delivers a strong performance and it's that balance of getting lost in it's world and a strong ensemble that makes it work so well. It's Angelina's ability to take us from young innocent Maleficent, to woman scorned, to vengeance personified and back to 'mother earth' energy that makes the movie so compelling. You find yourself rooting for the villain even when you don't want to. And that's to me the 'beauty' of this 'sleeping beauty' - it isn't just her ability to deliver 'delicious darkness' but to make each phase of her character's arc completely believable.

Elle Fanning as Princess Aurora delivers a wonderful innocence with just enough inner strength, and not to be missed is Sam Riley's performance as Diaval who helps to temper Maleficent's rage (a bird like Jiminy Cricket!). The wall of thorns, and the play between darkness and light, is just all done to perfection.

As in most Disney movies, there are butterfly sightings in Maleficent, many in fact! In a beautiful scene where Angelina's daughter, Vivienne Jolie-Pitt portrays young Aurora and she is chasing butterflies, completely oblivious to her surroundings, and one of the CGI Fairies who watches over Aurora as she grows is constantly surrounded by Butterflies. (I have always wondered why there is always a butterfly sighting in most Disney movies, if anyone knows why, please share!)

This movie is a definitely TICKET, you need to see this on the big screen Butterflies, don't wait for video with this one!

That's me Ascending Butterfly on the left! We all know I have a love of all things with Wings! (and a penchant for Red Lipstick too! She hits all my favorite Fashion notes, all black outfit, wings and red lips!)


Have you seen Maleficent Yet Butterflies? What did you think?

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a compensated post, I was provided Screening Passes for editorial consideration. All opinions are 100% my own!  I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 16 CFR, Part 255 - Guides Concerning the use of endorsements and testimonials in advertising, you may check our Giveaway and Disclosure Page for additional information regarding Ascending Butterfly Disclosure.

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

{#WordlessWednesday} @Ascending1 meets @TheLEGOMovie #Photos




Bloggers feel free to post a link to your Wordless Wednesday Post as a Comment! (No Giveaway Links please!)

Happy Wordless Wednesday!


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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a Sponsored Post!

Sunday, September 29, 2013

@SonyAnimation Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 #Cloudy2 #Foodimals Fun!

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 theatrical poster



Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ - Earlier this summer I got to attend a sneak peek preview of Sony Pictures Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2, and I thought I'd share the photos I took that day! Oddly, this wasn't the full movie screening but a sneak peek of select scenes!


Foodimal Standee, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 Sneak Preview Event at Sony Pictures
Foodimal Standee, Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 Sneak Preview Event at Sony Pictures


Character Standee of  Flint Lockwood, the Inventor, Voiced by Bill Hader
Character Standee of  Flint Lockwood, the Inventor, Voiced by Bill Hader


Director Cody Cameron of Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 poses with Taco Standee!
Director Cody Cameron poses with Taco Standee!


Character Standee of Sam Sparks, Voiced by Anna Faris
Character Standee of Sam Sparks, Voiced by Anna Faris


Left: Director Kris Pearn, Right: Director Cody Cameron Sony Pictures Animation Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2
Left: Director Kris Pearn, Right: Director Cody Cameron Sony Pictures Animation Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2


Director Cody Cameron Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2 poses with Taco Standee
Director Cody Cameron poses with Taco Standee!


Left: Mama Butterfly and Right: ME! Ascending Butterfly enjoying our Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 Photo Booth Moment!
Left: Mama Butterfly and Right: ME! Ascending Butterfly enjoying our Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2 Photo Booth Moment!


What was your favorite food fantasy character from Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2?

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 Active Giveaway:

Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ Great giveaway ending soon for a VIP Experience on Smooth Jazz NY's final sail of the season, The Encore Cruise: Angela Bofill Experience, (Two Cruise Passes, Buffet Tickets and Drinks for two as well!) enter here: http://www.ascendingbutterfly.com/2013/09/win-vip-smoothjazzny-angela-bofill.html

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post.

Sunday, June 10, 2012

Madagascar 3 + Advice to women and moms from Jada Pinkett Smith + #CapriSunSuperV


The super awesome ladies behind 'The Moms' (aka the Mamarazzi®) invited Ascending Butterfly to a very special screening of Madagascar 3, where we got the chance to not only view the film, but also a Questions and Answers Session and Meet and Greet with Jada Pinkett Smith. We also got to try out the new Capri Sun Super V juice. There were rainbow afro wigs, moms drinking from Juice Boxes, eats and treats and I have to say it's one of the wildest screenings I've attended in awhile! As a former film critic (Bronx Observer), I've attended my fair share of screenings and press junkets for films, but this was definitely different!

Film Synopsis:

English: Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Gloria the Hippo, and Melman the Giraffe are still fighting to get home to their beloved Big Apple and of course, King Julien, Maurice and the Penguins are all along for the comedic adventure. Their journey takes them through Europe where they find the perfect cover: a traveling circus, which they reinvent – Madagascar style.

Spanish/Espanol: Alex el león, Marty la cebra, Gloria la hipopótamo, y Melman la jirafa siguen tratando de regresar a su casa en su adorada Gran Manzana y por supuesto, el rey Julien, Maurice y los pingüinos también participan de esta divertida aventura. Su viaje los lleva através de Europa en donde encuentran la excusa perfecta para mantener las apariencias: un circo ambulante, al que reinventan al mejor estilo Madagascar.

MADAGASCAR 3: EUROPE’S MOST WANTED, photo taken in Cannes


Characters:



Alex the Lion – Ben Stiller

The King of New York still yearns to return home to his throne in the Central Park Zoo.  Hiding in a European traveling circus with the rest of the Zoosters may finally be his ticket back to the Big Apple, but things aren’t easy when the gang finds themselves as “Europe’s Most Wanted.”

Spanish/En Espanol: Alex el león – Ben Stiller

El rey de Nueva York todavía desea con ansias regresar a su hogar y a su trono en el zoológico de Central Park. Esconderse en un circo ambulante europeocon el resto de sus compañeros del zoo podría ser finalmente la manera devolver a la Gran Manzana, pero nada es tan fácil como parece cuando los   miembros del grupo se convierten en los “Más buscados de Europa”.



Marty – Chris Rock

Although he found his herd in Africa, Marty isn’t willing to leave his best friend Alex’s side.  The opportunity to join the circus gives Marty the shot of adrenaline he needs…he just didn’t realize he is the one being shot…out of a cannon.

Spanish/En Espanol: Marty – Chris Rock

A pesar de que encontró a su manada en Africa, Marty no abandonará a sumejor amigo Alex. La oportunidad de unirse al circo le da a Marty el disparo de adrenalina que necesita... solo que no se dio cuenta de que él también sería disparado… desde un cañón.



Melman – David Schwimmer

Did you hear the one about the hypochondriac giraffe who finally found love with a hippo?  Melman’s dreams are realized as he and Gloria figure out how to balance it all…on the circus high wire!

Spanish/En Espanol: Melman – David Schwimmer

¿Oíste hablar de la jirafa hipocondríaca que finalmente encontró el amor en una hipopótamo? Los sueños de Melman se vuelven realidad cuando él y Gloria descubren cómo equilibrarlo todo… ¡en la cuerda floja del circo!



Gloria – Jada Pinkett-Smith

The sweet, sassy and adorably plump hippo-next-door found love in Africa, and now she is ready to take things to exciting new heights with the rest of the Zooster gang.  Who says an oversized, heavy hippo can’t master the high wire act?

Spanish/En Espanol: Gloria – Jada Pinkett-Smith

La dulce, atrevida y adorablemente regordeta hipopótamo encontró el amor en Africa y ahora está lista para llegar a nuevas y emocionantes alturas con el resto de la pandilla del zoológico. ¿Quién dice que una hipopótamo extra grande y muy pesada no puede dominar el arte del equilibrio en la cuerda floja?



The Penguins – Chris Miller, Chritopher Knights, Tom McGrath & John Di Maggio

Stealthy and adventurous, Skipper, Kowalski, Rico and Private sneak through Europe on a mission.  They cook up a clever plan to help the Zoosters hijack a European traveling circus and turn it into a true three ring adventure.

Spanish/En Espanol: Los pingüinos - Chris Miller, Chritopher Knights, Tom McGrath & John Di Maggio

Sigilosos y aventureros, Skipper, Kowalski, Rico y Private se escabullen através de Europa con una misión. Urden un plan inteligente para ayudar a los animales del zoológico a secuestrar un circo ambulante europeo y convertirlo en una verdadera aventura de tres pistas.

Frances McDormand, as relentless French animal control officer Captain Chantal DuBois


The Soundtrack/The Music:

Along with Katy Perry's “Firework” and Australian collaborators Yolanda Be Cool & DCUP’s worldwide #1 dance hit “We No Speak Americano,” the Madagascar3: Europe’s Most Wanted soundtrack album features three-time Grammy Award®-winning producer-songwriter Peter Asher’s “Love Always Comes As a Surprise.”  New Madagascar voice Frances McDormand, as relentless French animal control officer Captain Chantal DuBois (who is in hot pursuit of the Zoosters running wild in her city), pays tribute to the Little Sparrow Edith Piaf with a new take on the classic “Non, je ne regrette rien (No, I have no regrets).”

In addition, Madagascar's King Julien covers C + C MusicFactory’s “Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now),” Spice Girls’ “Wannabe,”and Nelly’s “Hot In Herre,” and collaborates with Marty (voiced by Chris Rock) for thealbum’s closing mash-up of “Afro Circus” and Reel 2 Real’s “I Like To Move It” for new track “Afro Circus/I Like To Move It.”


Meeting Jada Pinkett Smith:

Right after the screening, Jada Pinkett Smith walked into a surprisingly silent room and teased us all about how quiet it was. It didn't remain that way for long, that I can tell you! There were tons of questions for her  - ranging from acting to motherhood and she answered thoughtfully, openly and with a great sense of humor. I can certainly remember from Press Junket's how hard it usually is for an actor to maintain their enthusiasm after answering the same question for the hundreth time, but Jada approached each question with thought and her passion for her craft, her family, and for life really did shine through.

Sharing some quotes that really stood out from the Q & A as captions to the photos below:

"Do what you need to do to keep your spirit alive by any means necessary" ~ Jada Pinkett Smith




"We as moms need to identify what we really need for ourselves as mothers." ~ Jada Pinkett Smith


"I make sure my kids understand that you can't get something for nothing." ~ Jada Pinkett Smith

I loved that she affirmed the importance of taking time for yourself. How feeding your passions fuels your spirit. She said that 'We need to feel alive so we can give passion to those that we love' and I couldn't possibly agree more. I find that on days when I don't take time for myself, where I give 100% to everything and everyone else, and leave nothing more for myself, I get burned out, and that's not where I want to be!

Capri Sun Super V

As soon as we arrived to the screening venue, here is the smiling face that greeted us with our choice of Capri Sun Super V flavor!



Kraft Foods recently launched Capri Sun Super V, and they were at the Madagascar 3 screening and provided us all with samples! Picture a room full of bloggers drinking out of their Capri Sun Pouches!


Left: Ascending Butterfly holding her Fruit Punch Flavor Capri Sun Super V!


Each pouch provides ½ cup fruit and vegetable juice, which is one combined serving of fruits and vegetables, according to the U.S. Dietary Guidelines (¾ from fruit juice, ¼ from vegetable juice). It is also fortified to be a good source of fiber and antioxidant vitamins A, C and E. Recommended Daily Intake = 4 servings of fruit and 5 servings of vegetables in a 2,000-calorie diet. Be sure to make most of your fruits and vegetables whole fruits and vegetables.

Sneaking in fruit & veggies in an easy to go pouch and it tastes great too, total PERK! (Notice I chopped off my super long hair? This butterfly is totally ready for summer!)

My Take:

I greatly enjoyed the opportunity to be a part of the Q&A with Jada Pinkett Smith, she seems to have a strong appreciation for her blessings in life and takes her most vital role, that of being not just a Mom, but a hands on mom that teaches her children to be independent, caring and grateful individuals very seriously.        

I enjoyed this movie, the penguins always make me laugh and it had great 3D special effects (happy to see that the 3D complimented the film), it had great pacing, and sneaks in great lessons for the little ones without boring the adults! And as a former event organizer I have to also say I love the way the screening was organized, and the details and touches that went into it.

As a Duane Reade VIP Blogger and Brand Ambassador I have to point out there was a Duane Reade mention, which made me smile!

And of course I wouldn't be doing my job as a butterfly loving blogger if I didn't point out there was a butterfly sighting in this movie! And you know that always makes me smile.

I still have some more photos from the screening, but I'll share the rest as this week's Wordless Wednesday!




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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post. I attended a screening as a member of the digital press and did receive a gift bag.

Friday, May 25, 2012

Men in Black 3 #Movie {Review}

@Columbia Pictures Men in Black 3


I attended a special advance screening of Men in Black earlier this week and just thought I'd share my un-biased, spoiler free review with my butterflies as I'm sure many of you will be heading to the theaters for Memorial Day Weekend!

Synopses:

English Summary: In Men In Black™ 3, Agents J (Will Smith) and K (Tommy Lee Jones) are back... in time. J has seen some inexplicable things in his 15 years with the Men in Black, but nothing, not even aliens, perplexes him as much as his wry, reticent partner. But when K's life and the fate of the planet are put at stake, Agent J will have to travel back in time to put things right. J discovers that there are secrets to the universe that K never told him --secrets that will reveal themselves as he teams up with the young Agent K (Josh Brolin) to save his partner, the agency, and the future of human kind.

Spanish Summary/En Espanol: En Men In Black™ 3, los agentes J (Will Smith) y K (Tommy Lee Jones) han vuelto... al pasado. Durante los quince años que trabajó con los Hombres de Negro, J se enfrentó a fenómenos inexplicables, pero nada — ni siquiera los extra terrestres — lo deja tan desconcertado como su sardónico y reservado compañero. Cuando la vida de K y el destino del planeta se encuentren en peligro, el agente J tendrá que viajar al pasado para arreglar las cosas. Allí, descubrirá que existen secretos sobre el universo que K nunca le contó, secretos que se revelarán cuando J empiece a trabajar con el joven agente K (Josh Brolin) para poder salvar a su compañero, la agencia y el futuro de la humanidad.

@Columbia Pictures Men in Black 3


My Take:

First and foremost, I have to share that I always have doubts in the back of my mind lately when I learn  any release will be in 3D, for me, as of late, 3D movies tend to be so special effects heavy that they lose an important element, the plot. I am super happy to report that while this is a 3D release, the plot does not get lost in the special effects. There are some great plot twists that really tie the storyline of the partnership between Agents J and K. I never give out spoilers here, but you will be pleasantly surprised.

Of course I have to share that there is a butterfly sighting, so be on the look out for it, and if you do go see the film this weekend and spot the scene, please come back here and share about it!

I also have to admit I did kind of set out to not like Josh Brolin as a young agent K, but he totally surprised me and I enjoyed his potrayal of a young Tommy Lee Jones. He totally nailed it!

The movie is fun, upbeat, action-packed and well cast, and I definitely recommend it!

More Action Shots from the film:

@Columbia Pictures Men in Black 3

@Columbia Pictures Men in Black 3

@Columbia Pictures Men in Black 3

@Columbia Pictures Men in Black 3

If you are a PussyCat Dolls Fan, you are sure to recognize the lady on the left who portrays Boris the Animal's girlfriend!

Here is the trailer:





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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post. I attended an Advance Screening as a member of the Digital Press, I have received no compensation to share my review of this film.

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

What to Expect When You're Expecting Hollywood Movie Money #Giveaway

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This giveaway is now CLOSED. Thanks so much to our wonderful sponsor @SafeConBritax! We look forward to working with you again. Congratulations to our winner, Joy F. There are great giveaways active on the upper right hand side of the page!
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This weekend I got the chance to check out the new movie What to Expect When You're Expecting, (I am sure the movie title reference is familiar to anyone who has the read the book with the same name, which some consider to be a 'pregnancy bible' of sorts.), it's a celeb studded cast that follows parenthood at different stages in life for various couples (as well as how their paths and lives intertwine) and includes the perspective of 'the dudes', a group of dads who come together to provide each other support and a 'judgement free' comfort zone. So if you are looking for a fun movie to take Dad to see on Father's Day, I would definitely recommend this one!

The movie features products, including strollers, car seats and baby carriers by Britax and B.O.B (which is owned by Britax). As a member of Britax’s Hispanic Digital and Social Media Outreach program, Ascending Butterfly will get the chance to bring you exclusive giveaways, product info, un-biased product reviews, and info on all things Britax every month. So don't forget to show some love on their Facebook and Twitter page and let them know that Ascending Butterfly sent you.



Our friends at Britax want you to check out their products in action, so @SafeConBritax and Ascending Butterfly are giving you Hollywood Movie Money so you can see the movie too! Don't you just  Britax USA? I know I do! (The first entry is super easy, just give us your email, the passes will be emailed to the winner so we need your email to send you your prize!)

a Rafflecopter giveaway


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FTC Disclosure: The Britax Hispanic Digital and Social Media Outreach is in partnership with Mami Innovative Media, a communications and digital marketing company that pairs multicultural and Latino bloggers with influential brands and blogging campaigns. I am a blogger brand ambassador for Britax and  I am part of a long term campaign that does provide additional incentives for my participation. However all opinions are 100% my own. My movie pass and the movie money being used for this giveaway was provided by Britax USA. Questions about our Disclosure? Please visit: http://www.ascendingbutterfly.com/p/disclosure-policy.html



Thursday, February 16, 2012

Lady and the Tramp! {Movie Review}



With the insanity that is Fashion Week and other simultaneous events happening back to back, I just realized we never got anything into our Valentine's Day 2012 Buying Guide for the little ones!

So as a belated Kids Corner pick, Ascending Butterfly recommends Disney's Animated Classic Love Story 'Lady and the Tramp' - I remember seeing it when I was a little girl and was happy to see that the 2 disc Combo Pack was released on February 7th 2012, just in times for Valentines Day!

It's my earliest memory of a 'romance' movie, Lady a pampered Cocker Spaniel and Tramp a free-wheeling Mutt with a heart of gold, meet and fall in love! They made it look so easy! A great adventure set to un-forgettable music......I don't think there is any love story sweeter than this one, so while the kiddos get wrapped up in the Dogs and their fun adventures, there is still a sweet romance story in there for moms and dads to enjoy along with the kiddos.

Yes in reality we know Dad never would have approved of Tramp, and Lady may have come home with Tattoo in the modern day version, and of course the only restaurant open at that hour in the modern day version would have been fast food......but I digress.....

So if you haven't already, pick this up to watch with the kids this weekend! It is Family Approved, and Fun for all ages.

I think everyone's favorite scene in the movie is the 'Bella Notte' Spaghetti Scene Hands Down:




And now I have the sudden urge to make some Pasta! :)

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Ascending Butterfly received the products mentioned above free of charge for editorial consideration, no additional incentives have been received. All opinions expressed are 100% my own. I am disclosing this information in accordance with the Federal Trade Commisions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Our full Giveaway Rules and Disclosure Policy can be found HERE.

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Not So Wordless Wednesday - War Horse Screening Q & A with Actress Emma Watson {Photo + Video}

I have attended some great events this months, and slowly but surely I'm sneaking in event recaps during our annual holidays buying guide because I love to make you feel like you were there with me! I had the opportunity to attend a special screening of the movie War Horse thanks to Moms & The City, the Film Society of Lincoln Center and a live stream of a questions and answers session with Actress Emma Watson that was live streamed by the New York Daily News!

DreamWorks Pictures "War Horse" directed by Steven Spielberg is an epic adventure that tells the story of a very special friendship between a horse named Joey and a young man Albert who trains Joey, the adventure begins when they are forcefully parted due to The First World War. Joey changes and inspires the lives of all he meets including the British Cavalry, German Soldiers, and a French Farmer and his Grand-Daughter, meanwhile his friend Joey's life is forever changed in attempting to reunite with him. It's a heartfelt and touching tale of friendship, of the single thread that unites us all even under (or maybe especially under) dire circumstances, tenacity and friendship. I'd say the age range for young ones would entirely depend on your child's maturity level. There is some violence as this is a war epic after all!

As if Mimosas, warm popcorn, bagels and other assorted snacks weren't enough incentive, the screening was followed by a Question and Answer session with one of the films stars, Actress Emma Watson!

Here are my two best shots from the Q&A Session:

Emma Watson Center, holding microphone!


(Left) Raina Seitel, Moms & The City (Center) Actress Emma Watson (Right) Melissa Gerstein, Moms & The City

NY Daily News was live streaming the Q&A, and if you'd like to hear Emma's answers to moms questions, press on the video below (you might want to view this in full screen mode):



I would definitely recommend checking out War Horse the movie which will open on Christmas Day! Emma is incredibly down-to-earth, (a bit shy!), and super approachable, I enjoyed meeting her and greatly enjoyed the screening!

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FTC Disclosure: This is NOT a sponsored post, no monetary compensation has been received. I was invited to a special screening as a member of the digital press, I was fed and did receive a gift bag! :)