Kristy Moody's Blog, page 27

[Movie Review] “Dolphin Island”

Escape to a peaceful world of “Dolphin Island”!

In the Mr. Puppy Presents film, Peter Woodward stars as a caring grandfather living with his teenage granddaughter (Tyler Jade Nixon) in a natural conservation center created by her deceased parents. The pair enjoy an uncomplicated existence alongside fellow islanders and adorable wildlife like the dolphin Mitzy until her maternal grandparents (Annette Lovrien Duncan and David Raizor) return.

The majority of the family-centered movie places a spotlight on the warm and loving relationships between family, friends and potential love interests. Viewers even witness the grandparents’ desperate attempt to protect their granddaughter from the danger that took away her parents a decade ago. Everything in the G-rated filmed is rooted in love, and the island paradise, where the conservation center is located, is wonderfully tranquil. You’ll be able to take a virtual vacation while you enjoy the motion picture.

I highly recommend everyone check out this movie! It’s a fun ride for all ages.

“Dolphin Island” releases on most video-on-demand platforms on March 2nd, 2021.

A Special Thanks to Collide Media Group/Collide Distribution and Shaked Berenson’s Entertainment Squad  for the film screener and image.

 

50 Best Reviews And Interviews That Will Blow Your Mind

To celebrate 10 years of BTSCelebs, let’s place a spotlight on some of the best features over the past decade. Enjoy the fun and emotional reviews and interviews you can only find right here.

50 Long before his historic role in USA Network’s Eyewitness, talented actor Tyler Young starred in the youth series The Avatars. He talked about the show and his life in an exclusive interview.  – Tyler Young

49 The Jingle Jangle actor was a bright star in the Chicago theatre world. Learn more about his life before the hit Netflix film through our exclusive interview. – Justin Cornwell

48 Beloved singer Moriah Peters Smallbone made her acting debut in this family film that tackled real world issues. – Because of Gracia

47 During BTSCelebs’ first visit to Bears Training Camp, I interviewed their brand new (and promising) TE. – Kyle Adams

46  – Young talent Rhys rose to fame with his roles in Hallmark’s The Good Witch and Heartland. He spoke to BTSCelebs about his role in the 2015 crime series Ties That Bind. – Rhys Matthew Bond

45  Her music is positive and fun-loving. Caitie’s interview was the inspiration needed during a tough year.  – Caitie Hurst

44 Sade is being a light on the West Coast, and she shared her amazing mission with BTSCelebs in an exclusive interview. – Sade Champagne

43 The uplifting family series Date My Dad is dearly missed. When it premiered, this site reviewed the first two episodes.  – Date My Dad

42 When The Joffrey Ballet hired Greg Cameron as Executive Director, BTSCelebs was here for it! He graciously gave the site an exclusive interview.  – Greg Cameron

41  I’m a longtime fan of Mandisa’s upbeat and inspirational music and reviewing two of her albums was heaven on earth.  –  Overcomer

40  The amount of work that goes into creating a bow by hand is astounding. This film made me realize the bow is just as important as the musical instrument.   – The Bowmakers

39 Last year, legends John Lennox and Kevin Sorbo released the controversial film Against The Tide, and it was a hot conversational piece. – Against The Tide: Finding God in an Age of Science

38 It was fun to interview David Dunn, who is a talented singer with inspired lyrics. – David Dunn

37 Several artists have spoken to BTSCelebs, and gifted artist Minjae Lee was one of the earliest ones. – Minjae Lee

36  In the second year of BTSCelebs, music producer Steven Lee stopped by to discuss his important role in the industry. – Steven Lee

35 SF9 is definitely one of my favorite boy bands and getting the opportunity to interview the songwriting team for their debut song was a dream come true. –  Albin Nordqvist & Louise Frick-Sveen

Image Credit FNC Entertainment

34  One of my early reviews was a jaw-dropping film about the controversial topic of abortion. – Doonby

33 Hollyn’s songs were catchy and her beats were addictive. Overall, this was one unforgettable album.  – One Way Conversations

32 Nature and religion are in perfect contrast in this Gordon Wilson documentary. – The Riot and the Dance

31 After reviewing two of her refreshing and realistic books, it was time to interview one of my new favorite authors. – Kathryn Cushman

Lauren Beccue and Kathryn Cushman

30 The CEO of 6Theory Media spoke exclusively with BTSCelebs about a new girl group he created at the time. If you are a big fan of AllKpop and Tokyohive, you’ll love this interview.  – Johnny Noh

Credit: 6TheoryMedia/Johnny Noh

29 Pride and Prejudice is a beloved classic and reviewing this refreshing remake was so much fun. –  Pudge and and Prejudice

28 Famous artist Steven Curtis Chapman released Deep Roots in 2013, and it was reviewed on this site the very same year. – Deep Roots

27 BTSCelebs interviewed People Magazine’s Alicia Dennis when she was still a Senior Writer. Now, you can learn more about the famous Editor in 2014. – Alicia Dennis

26 Legendary singer Amy Grant released a worship album in 2013. BTSCelebs reviewed it prior to the release date! – How Mercy Looks From Here

25 Dancing icon Alexei Kremnev became a beloved teacher in the Joffrey Ballet, and he branched out and established A&A Ballet in the Chicago just a few years ago. BTSCelebs interviewed him during the company’s inception. – Alexei Kremnev

24 TobyMac’s 2012 album release was very special, because it was the very first album my site ever reviewed. – Eye On It

23  Kathie Lee Gifford and Craig Ferguson played in a spicy indie film that Ms. Gifford created, and you can enjoy the complete film review right here.  – Then Came You

Image Credit: Vertical Entertainment

22 The Nashville and Pretty Little Liars actor did an exclusive interview with BTSCelebs to promote his holiday film Naughty & Nice. – Tilky Jones

21 The very first interview guest on BTSCelebs was reporter Nancy Loo! The former Fox 32 Chicago and WGN TV Chicago worker is currently a NewsNation Now West Coast reporter. – Nancy Loo

Credit: Fox 32 Chicago/Nancy Loo

20  After reviewing the first To All The Boys Netflix film, I had to read the first two Jenny Han books in the series.  – To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before

photo credit: Jenny Han’s Facebook

19 He is a veteran ballet dancer, model and made the Guinness World Record for Tallest Ballet Dancer in the World. Fabrice Calmels is an international legend. – Fabrice Calmels

Credit: Cheryl Mann

18  Because of Gracia was a sweet film with a poignant message, and interviewing the leading actor helped bring the project to life.  – Chris Massoglia

17 I loved the Date My Dad series, and I was heartbroken when it was cancelled. Thankfully, the stars from the show have a bright future, and BTSCelebs interviewed one of talented cast members. – Zenia Marshall

Photo by Kharen Hill

16  Tough subjects like addiction and fidelity were beautifully illustrated by the actors in this romantic drama film. You can read the complete review right here. – The Song

Credit: thesongmovie.com

15  I am a big fan of Divergent and the sequel! When BTSCelebs was invited to review the third movie, I was excited to do so. – The Divergent Series: Allegiant

14 He rose to fame by portraying Jesus Christ in The Bible series, however, BTSCelebs was introduced to the star over a phone interview for his family film Love Finds You In Valentine. – Diogo Morgado

13  Months before Overcomer hit theaters, BTSCelebs was given the opportunity to review the book all about the film. It was amazing to read all the details about scenes that would become iconic. – Overcomer

12 The Song, War Room and Overcomer were powerful faith films, and it was an honor to interview the man who authored the books about the films. – Chris Fabry

11 For years, I always said the Freaky Friday of my generation (Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan) was the best one. However, the 2018 version of FF was so much fun, and it quickly became one of my favorite movies in general.  – Freaky Friday

Credit: Disney

10 Sarah Jakes’ life story was a must read for anyone interested in forgiving yourself and a road to redemption. – Lost and Found: Finding HOPE in the Detours of Life

9 This has to be the most eye-opening movies BTSCelebs ever reviewed! – The Perfect Wave

Credit: Divine Inspiration

8 The Perfect Wave was an incredible film and interviewing one of the leading stars was a gift. – Rachel Hendrix

Credit: rachelhendrix.net

7 Coby is a rising star that mirrors the vocal quality of modern pop icons. – Coby James

6 Her interview illustrated the simplicity of not stressing about life and true talent shining through. – Riley Clemmons

5  Despite political party preference, it was refreshing to see an iconic like Stacey Dash be open about her struggles in life and personal healing. –  There Goes My Social Life

4 Through my early days with POPSEOUL, I learned about rising star Megan Lee in 2011, and it was fun to virtually interview her for one of her most famous television roles. – Megan Lee

3 This laidback story itself is wonderfully wholesome. – Fading Starlight

2 Before SHINee had their first American fanmeetings, BTSCelebs asked one of their fan clubs about the possibility of them coming to Chicago.  – SFI

1 The original “Bionic Woman” opened up about her role in Love Finds You In Valentine. – Lindsay Wagner

A special Thank You to everyone who has been apart of BTSCelebs! 

Singer Caitie Hurst Is Getting Married

Credit: @CaitieHurst on Instagram

Yesterday, Caitie Hurst announced that she was engaged to longtime boyfriend Parker Beasley. The happy news was shared via social media, and you can see their joyful moment through the photos below.

Congratulations to the future Mr. and Mrs. Beasley!

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A post shared by Caitie Hurst (@caitiehurst)

March 2021 Release! “DOLPHIN ISLAND” Is Coming

Credit: Mr. Puppy Presents/Entertainment Squad

Actors Peter Woodward, Dionne Lea and Tyler Jade Nixon star in the family film titled DOLPHIN ISLAND. The movie, which is about a teen’s dream life turned upside down when her estranged grandparents return, is scheduled to be released on March 2nd, according to a Collide Distribution press release.

DOLPHIN ISLAND promises to give its audience pure joy by bringing the gorgeous Bahamas landscape to them. Mr. Puppy Presents/Entertainment Squad created DI and it is directed by Mike Disa, produced by Shaked Berenson, and written by Disa, Berenson, and Rolfe Kanefsky.

View the trailer below to see a visual synopsis:

Mike Disa: “We set out to make a heartwarming movie that shares about the power of family and community. We couldn’t have expected the timing that, shortly after filming, our world would be shut down to traveling.”

Shaked Berenson: “We hope the film helps families escape to a beautiful island paradise, that it can inspire girls to seek out careers in science, and it can help us consider the power of family-in whatever form we may find it.”

DOLPHIN ISLAND also features actors Bob Bledsoe, David Raizor and introduces Annette Lovrien Duncan and Aaron Borrow.

Click Here to learn more about Dolphin Island

A Special Thanks to Collide Media Group/Collide Distribution for the press release.

Action Lines: The Joffrey Ballet Artists Create A Company For Digital Work

Jeraldine Mendoza, Dylan Gutierrez, Olivia Duryea, Hyuma Kiyosawa, Dara Holmes, Edson Barbosa, Xavier Nuñez, Eric Grant -Photo by Christopher Andrew

Performing arts return to Chicago!

According to an official press release, Joffrey Ballet artists Xavier Núñez and Dylan Gutierrez teamed up with writer and film producer Eric Grant to make a new production company called Action Lines. Now until April 30th, you can see the company’s inaugural work, Interim Avoidance, at the 150 Media Stream public art exhibition at 150 N. Riverside Plaza, Chicago, IL. Artists Edson Barbosa, Olivia Duryea, Dylan Gutierrez, Dara Holmes, Hyuma Kiyosawa, and Jeraldine Mendoza are featured in the seven-minute piece.

Núñez and Gutierrez said the following about their first project: “Interim Avoidance seeks to provide a sense of closeness during the waning days of the pandemic. The dancers of The Joffrey Ballet have found themselves all dressed up with nowhere to perform. Six dancers emerge in a void, unsure of their purpose. A beam of red light beckons them like a stage manager on opening night, offering a moment of respite from their collective solitude. Never ones to give up an opportunity, they launch into the movements and shapes for which they have trained so long. A determination to bring joy, to excite, to spark inspiration with dance, the performers urge us all to remember that even in the darkest times, loneliness is nothing more than an Interim Avoidance.”

The Artistic Director of the Joffrey and the Curator of 150 Media Stream were also quoted in The Silverman Group press release. They expounded on the new creative venture.

Interim Avoidance – Photo by Christopher Andrew

Ashley Wheater MBE, The Mary B. Galvin, Artistic Director of the Joffrey : “The Joffrey was founded with the intention of being more than a dance company. This collaboration speaks to that. As difficult as it has been to get through the pandemic, several of our artists are putting creative energy toward different passions and interests—from education to graphic design to film. Action Lines and 150 Media Stream have created a brilliant installation that highlights the beauty of our company. It is a thrill to support it and to see it come to life.”

Yuge Zhou, Curator of 150 Media Stream: “An important part of our mission is to provide a platform for Chicago artists and organizations. We are excited to open our 2021 arts program with this mesmerizing video installation that merges performing arts and technology on a unique stage.”

Interim Avoidance is scheduled for showings “Monday – Friday: 8:00 – 9:30 AM, and 4:30 – 8:00 PM, and Saturdays: 1:00-7:00 PM. All attendees are required to wear a face covering.” It runs through April 30th.

*A Special Thanks to The Silverman Group for the images and  information.*

Book Review: Courtney Walsh’s “Is It Any Wonder: a Nantucket love story”

This Spring, author Courtney Walsh takes readers back to Nantucket for the experience of a lifetime.

“A lifetime” is the core of this contemporary romance.  Is It Any Wonder illustrates the complicated relationship of Louisa Chambers and Cody Boggs that spans the course of 29 years. The pair, who share the same birthday, grew up together and naturally started dating in high school. However, a tragic death in the family and a devastating secret tore their two families apart. Twelve years after their separation, Louisa and Cody have a chance encounter (and an ailing loved one) reunite them. The stubborn main characters are surrounded by a sea of colorful residents that help the story flow namely, Maggie, their parents, Louisa’s best friend/business partner Ally, socialite blogger Mackenzie and the Nantucket Coast Guard. Romantic sparks reignite for the main characters, but can they overcome the unknown challenges ahead?

Health, death and second chances are on full display in this novel. The emotional voyage mixed with the possibly of a romance is soul-stirring. This novel is a tear-jerker throughout, but it has a rewarding happy ending.

Is It Any Wonder: a Nantucket love story releases on April 6th, 2021.

*A Special Thanks to Tyndale House Publishers for the advance reader copy of the book and cover image*

SuperM’s Taemin OG group, SHINee, Is Making A Comeback: Here Are 23 Dramas You’ve Seen The Members Star In

Taemin – Credit: @lm_____ltm on Instagram

Before Taemin was a guest star on Nickelodeon’s All That with SuperM, the SHINee member made several appearances on Asian dramas. Since he and his band SHINee are scheduled to make a music comeback next month, I think it is great time to celebrate their TV acting careers as well.  Let’s take a look at Taemin, Minho, Key and Onew’s impressive actor resumes now!

SHINee – Credit: @bumkeyk on Instagram

TAEMIN

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Final Life (Amazon Prime Video)

Dating Agency: Cyrano (tvN) – guest appearance

Salamander Guru and The Shadow Operation Team (SBS) – guest appearance

High Kick! 3 (MBC) – – guest appearance

Moon Night 90 (Mnet)

Athena: Goddess of War (SBS) – cameo

Hilarious Housewives [aka Tae Hee, Hye Kyo, Ji Hyun] (MBC)

 

MINHO

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Lovestruck in the City (Kakao TV/ Netflix) – cameo

The Most Beautiful Goodbye (tvN)

18 Again [aka Somehow 18] (Naver TV Cast/JTBC)

Hwarang (KBS2)

Drinking Solo (tvN) – cameo

Because It’s The First Time [aka My First Time] (OnStyle)

Medical Top Team (MBC)

To The Beautiful You (SBS)

Salamander Guru and The Shadow Operation Team 

Drama Special: Pianist (KBS2)

My Precious Child (KBS2) – cameo

 

KEY

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A post shared by SHINee KEY (@bumkeyk)

Lookout (MBC)

Drinking Solo (tvN)

Salamander Guru and the Shadow Operation Team

Moon Night 90

 

Onew

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A post shared by 오뉴 (@dlstmxkakwldrl)

Descendants of the Sun (KBS2)

Pure Love (KBS2) – cameo

Oh My God x2 (SBS Plus) – cameo

Athena: Goddess of War – cameo

Dr. Champ (SBS) – cameo

My Precious Child – cameo

Many of the dramas listed here can be found on KOCOWA, Viki, Netflix, Ondemand Korea and Amazon.

Happy 2021 comeback, SHINee!

2021 Update: Val Warner Is Getting Married In The Roaring 20s

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A post shared by Val Warner (@valwarnertv)

Congratulations to Val Warner and Jobba Jordan!

[Opinion] Will GOT7’s Mark Tuan Join Twitch?

 

Mark’s puppy Milo – Credit: @marktuan on Instagram

On Tuesday, GOT7‘s contract with JYP Entertainment comes to an end. Fans, aka Ahgases, are excited for their next chapter, and rumors have been swirling that member Mark Tuan is coming stateside to continue his career. To jumpstart his solo endeavor, the Taiwanese American artist opened a brand new YouTube channel and Facebook page to interact with fans.

The big question is…. will he join Twitch in the near future? I know the video live streaming service is helping top influencers build their audience while communicating with fans in real time. A host of stars like Ryan Higa, Amber Liu (fx) and Megan Lee and even his own brother Joey Tuan are already on Twitch. It would be great if he joined to share his music and keep everyone updated on his busy schedule. I hope he seriously considers it in the near future.

In the meantime, feel free to follow Mark Tuan on all his social media accounts via his YouTube Channel: @MarkTuan

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BTSCelebs Is Reviewing Courtney Walsh’s “Is It Any Wonder”

Happy New Year!

BTSCelebs is kicking off 2021 with an all new book review. Courtney Walsh‘s “Is It Any Wonder” is the first one of the year. I’m currently on chapter 11 of the contemporary romance all about a young couple torn apart by tragedy and reuniting years later. The story is set in Nantucket and follows the characters Cody Boggs and Louisa Chambers.

A complete review will be published in the coming weeks. Stay Tuned to BTSCelebs!

“Is It Any Wonder” releases on April 6th, 2021.

*A Special Thanks to Tyndale House Publishers for the advance reader copy of the book and cover image*