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‘Big Miracle’Opens Feb. 13, rated PG bigmiracle.com When three gray whales are found trapped by rapidly forming ice in the northern tip of Alaska, a small-town TV news reporter (John Krasinski) and his Greenpeace volunteer ex-girlfriend (Drew Barrymore) try to cut through red tape so the imperiled mammals can cut through the Arctic Circle. The story is based on actual events in the 1980s that aligned oil companies, Russian and U.S. military, and Inuit natives for a whale of a rescue. ‘The Secret World of Arrietty’Opens Feb. 17, rated G disney.com/arrietty Redubbed in English, the Japanese-made Disney-distributed fantasy borrows from a children’s book series titled “The Borrowers.” Mary Norton’s original work is set in a world beneath the floorboards where teensy people dwell. Trouble and opportunity knock when their hideaway is discovered. Fans of “Spirited Away” and “Ponyo” will be delighted to see another touching animated feature from Studio Ghibli. ‘Star Wars: Episode 1 – The Phantom Menace’Opens Feb. 10, rated PG starwars.com Let’s hope the reason George Lucas is reissuing Episode 1 in 3-D isn’t mainly because the movie is still roughly $70 million shy of the magical $1 billion worldwide and half-a-billion domestic box office milestones. The original 1999 release was key to filling the holes of a saga that began with the fourth, fifth and sixth chapters. This installment is known for a jaw-dropping climactic fight scene and the introductions of Darth Sidious, Darth Maul and, unfortunately, the grating JarJar Binks. Expect the other chapters to be rereleased in 3-D. ≈ NEW FAMILY DVD RELEASES ≈ ‘Dr. Seuss The Lorax – Deluxe Edition’ (ages 2-6, available Feb. 14, not rated) The classic 1972 animated TV special looks and sounds better than ever on both the DVD and Blu-ray editions. Positive messages carry the story of a 12-year-old who searches for the one thing that will enable him to win the affection of the girl of his dreams. To find it, he must discover the story of the Lorax, the grumpy yet charming creature who fights to protect his world. Grade: A ‘Lady and the Tramp’ (ages 2 and up, available Feb. 7, rated G) Disney has added this cuddly canine classic of 1955 to its Diamond Edition collection. Inspired by “Romeo and Juliet,” the love story centers on a pampered pedigreed cocker spaniel who barks up the wrong tree (or the right one?) with an amorous street-wise scamp. Just the romantic scene at Tony’s restaurant alone makes this remastered Blu-ray title worth the investment. Look for lots of bonuses on three discs, in addition to a DVD version and digital copy. Grade: A+ ‘Puss in Boots’ (ages 3-12, release date TBD at press time, rated PG) The modest theatrical hit of October is a worthy continuation of the “Shrek” franchise, proving that the courageous kitty can land on his own feet without support from a soft-hearted ogre and talking donkey. Set prior to Puss’ Far Far Away days, the 3-D animated prequel is funny, exciting and clever, though it does declaw itself in the final quarter with plot holes and needless clutter. The voice cast is led by Antonio Banderas, Salma Hayek and Zach Galifianakis. Grade: B |
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