family movies Archives

‘Toy Story 5’ Stars Scarlett Spears and Mykal-Michelle Harris on Play and Technology

Published September 16, 2026

By Cassandra Lane

Ahead of the Disney+ release of “Toy Story 5,” Scarlett Spears and Mykal-Michelle Harris talk about Bonnie, Blaze, screen time, imaginative play and joining the Pixar family.

Headshots of "Toy Story 5" stars Scarlett Spears and Mykal-Michelle Harris. — “Toy Story 5” stars Scarlett Spears and Mykal-Michelle Harris. PHOTOS COURTESY DISNEY/PIXAR

While the toys-versus-tech battle in this summer’s “Toy Story 5” echoes the tech wars we find ourselves reading about each day, two young stars of the film, Scarlett Spears and Mykal-Michelle Harris, remind us that the relationship between human connection and technology is more complicated than choosing one over the other.

For Scarlett, 9, who voices Bonnie, “toys always win,” while Mykal-Michelle, 14, who voices Bonnie’s friend Blaze (and is a former L.A. Parent cover model!), technology can be an important way for kids to stay connected with friends and family — especially when they don’t live nearby. And both actors still have plenty to say about the value imagination and good old-fashioned play.

That balance feels especially fitting as “Toy Story 5” moves from the big screen to family rooms. The film begins streaming exclusively on Disney+ on Sept. 23, giving families another chance to spend time with Woody, Buzz, Jessie and the gang — and Bonnie and Blaze.

Hear what these two young stars think about play, friendship, technology and being part of one of the most beloved movie franchises of all time.

Watch Scarlett Spears and Mykal-Michelle Harris Talk “Toy Story 5”

Treasure Trackers is the New Family Adventure on Apple TV

Published October 1, 2024

Dive into the enchanting world of Treasure Trackers, the all-new family adventure brimming with nostalgia and Halloween magic! This film is a must-watch as we begin to embrace the spooky season! Check out the trailer of the thrilling new tale here.

Treasure Trackers follows California surfer Leah (Charity Rose) who must relocate to the small town of Carterville, where she bands together fellow misfits Marshy (Sean Jay) and Tessa (Amelia Salazar) to track down the town’s mythic treasure. When the trio uncovers the truth behind the treasure’s Halloween curse, they must outsmart the high school troublemakers before an evil spirit is accidentally released.

As the feature film debut from directors Nate & Drew Garcia, they sought out to recapture the magic of an era where movies were aspirational, heartfelt, and tinged with a bit of whims. Treasure Trackers formed from a blend of creative vision, ambition, and the timeless elements that the producers felt would make for a compelling movie: a thrilling treasure hunt, a Halloween curse, a trio of misfit middle schoolers who beat the odds with wits and ingenuity, and a young hero who discovers that the real treasure lies in the friendships forged along the way.

Face your fears, embark on a treasure hunt, and join Leah and her friends in their thrilling adventure to uncover the cursed treasure. Treasure Trackers is now available for purchase on Apple TV and Fandango at Home, brought to you by Storyboard Entertainment, Level33 Entertainment, and Particular Crowd.

ABOUT TREASURE TRACKERS
Release Date: Available to Purchase on Digital Platforms 10/1
Starring: Charity Rose, Amelia Salazar, Sean Jay, Sam Coffelt, Kim Sandwich, Cooper Tomlinson, Zephaniah Terry, Jaymee Vowell, Mike Stanley, Jim Johnson, Matthew Tarricone, Constance Reynolds, Alfred E. Rutherford, Julie Oliver-Touchstone, Cliff Jestice, Patrick G. Keenan, Leora Berry, Chris Thiede, Austin Von Johnson
Executive Produced By: Tomás Yankelevich, Peter Bevan, Mariana Sanjurjo, Matthew D. Miller
Produced By: Jason Potash, Paul Finkel, Ricky Blumenstein, Harris Kauffman
Co-Produced By: Nicholas Chow, Roxana Dellocchio, Alan Luna, Natalie Ballesteros
Screenplay By: Harris Kauffman
Directed By: Drew and Nate Garcia
Run Time: 93 mins
Rating: PG for some scary moments, language, mild thematic elements and a suggestive reference.

New on Screen: What to Watch in October

Published October 11, 2022

By Nina Harada

Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile

Sony Pictures presents the live-action, CGI musical comedy “Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile,” starring Javier Bardem, Constance Wu and Shawn Mendes. Based on the best-selling book series by Bernard Waber, “Lyle, Lyle, Crocodile” follows the Primm family to New York City where their lives change when their young son Josh discovers Lyle, a singing crocodile who loves baths and music. The film will feature original songs performed by the stars, written by the team behind “The Greatest Showman.” Now in theaters.

Abominable and The Invisible City

DreamWorks Animation presents “Abominable and The Invisible City,” a new comedy adventure series based on the 2019 movie “Abominable.” The series follows the yeti, Yi, Jin and Peng through a magical world filled with magical creatures in need of their help. Together, the kids set out on extraordinary adventures through their city and beyond. Season 1 is now streaming on Peacock and Hulu.

MAIKA: THE GIRL FROM ANOTHER GALAXY

Well Go USA Entertainment presents “MAIKA: THE GIRL FROM ANOTHER GALAXY,” which premiered at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival in the Kids section. The Vietnamese sci-fi feature follows a grieving 8-year old boy as he befriends a mysterious alien girl named Maika. Together they embark on a fun-filled adventure taking on bad guys while helping Maika find her way home. Available on digital.

Mack & Rita

For the parents looking for a night-in, Lionsgate’s “Mack & Rita” starring Diane Keaton is the perfect comic relief. About a 30-year old homebody whose inner 70-year old is released, literally, during a bachelorette trip in Palm Springs, “Mack & Rita” celebrates being true to yourself at any age. Available on Blu-ray and DVD Oct. 18.

For more movie and tv show recommendations, check out our September roundup.

New on Screen: What to Watch in August

Published August 1, 2022

By: Anna Gregory

Luck

Apple Original Films and Skydance Animation present the story of Sam Greenfield, a person with what seems to be the worst luck in the world. She stumbles upon the Land of Luck, where she has to make friends with the magical creatures to flip her unlucky qualities. “Luck” will feature the voices of Whoopi Goldberg, Jane Fonda, Lil Rel Howrey, Flula Borg, Simon Pegg, Eva Noblezada, and is directed by Peggy Holmes, and will be available for streaming on August 5, 2022.

Team Zenko Go

Dreamworks Animation presents a new season of “Team Zenko Go.” The team, Niah, Ari, Ellie, and Jax are ready to use their various skills and teamwork to help their neighbors, bring the community together, and save the residents of Harmony Harbor from a few problems that arise. Available for streaming on Netflix on August 8, 2022.

Lucy’s School

Apple TV+ presents “Lucy’s School.” Lucy from the Peanuts gang decides to start her own school, not realizing how difficult teaching will be. “Lucy’s School” recognizes the effort and dedication it takes to be a teacher and explores the fear of change. Lucy will have to face her fears with the support of her friends. “Lucy’s School” is a love letter to all the wonderful teachers out there. Available for streaming on August 12, 2022.

Summering

Bleecker Street presents “Summering.” Four best friends bond, adventure, and come across some possible supernatural occurrences during their last summer before middle school. Covering themes of coming of age, friendship, and courage, “Summering” follows these four friends on the adventure of a lifetime. Available in theaters on August 12, 2022.

Surfside Girls

Apple TV+ presents “Surfside Girls.” Best friends Sam and Jade are trying to solve supernatural mysteries in their sleepy California beach town. In order to solve the mysteries, they must find a way to combine their opposing strengths of logic and imagination. “Surfside girls” will star Miya Cech and YaYa Gosselin with Spencer Hermes-Rebello. Available for streaming on August 19, 2022.

Gabby’s Dollhouse

Netflix and Dreamworks Animation present “Gabby’s Dollhouse” Season 5. This season is filled with sparkly, swirly, and sticky situations! Some episodes include Gabby and Pandy visiting the Cat-osphere to rescue CatRat, the spooky spirit of Cat-O-Ween, and cat-tastic crafts. Available for streaming on July 25, 2022.

See our last issue of “New on Screen” here.

New on Screen: What to Watch March

Published March 16, 2022

By Simone Quary

Our picks this month range from a group of superhero children to characters who use music to embrace our differences while encouraging us to unleash the hero within ourselves. For Women’s History Month, we also acknowledge the contributions and stories of trailblazing women around the world, each a hero in their own right.

The Tunies

Created by former Head of A&R at G.O.O.D Music, Ricky Anderson, “The Tunies” is an animated musical series. The lead character, Avery pays tribute to Ricky’s son who passed away suddenly. Along with Avery, “The Tunies” characters share the importance of diversity, friendship and teamwork while helping introduce kids to early developmental milestones through music. With music and important educational messages, families and their children can enjoy “The Tunies” together. Available now on YouTube, with new videos uploaded weekly.

Team Zenko Go

From DreamWorks Animation and Mainframe Studios, “Team Zenko Go” follows four kids that aim to make their community a better place. Kids Niah, Ari, Ellie and Jax are members of Team Zenko Go, a secret squad of do-gooders who learn to master the art of distraction to perform anonymous acts of kindness. With the help of their mentor, Auntie Yuki, the kids learn different Zenkos, a set of skills that allow them to continue their good deeds. All episodes of “Team Zenko Go” are available to watch on Netflix.

Sing 2

Hailed as this year’s number one animated film, “Sing 2” is now available on digital streaming services. The main protagonist, Buster Moon (Matthew McConaughey) returns along with his friends Rosita (Reese Witherspoon), Ash (Scarlett Johansson), Johnny (Taron Egerton), Meena (Tori Kelly) and Gunter (Nick Kroll). The group heads on a journey to entertainment capital of the world, Redshore City to perform their biggest show yet. However, they must convince the world’s most reclusive rock star, Clay Calloway (Bono) to join their group. “Sing 2” will also be available on Blu-ray^TM with exclusive bonus features on March 29.

PBS SoCal and KCET 2022 Women’s History Month

PBS SoCal and KCET honor Women’s History Month with special programming that showcases women’s contributions to history from all walks of life. Throughout March, programs include histories from trailblazing women such as Betty White, Nancy Pelosi, and Angela Merkel, the first female chancellor of Germany. Other programs include untold stories from women, including Iranian mathematician Maryam Mirzakhani and the women journalists of India’s all-female Khabar Lahariya (“News Wave”). Visit kcet.org/WomensHistoryMonth and pbssocal.org/WomensHistoryMonth for a full list of Women’s History Month programming.

Lost LA

In collaboration with University of Southern California Libraries, KCET’s Emmy^® winning series “Lost LA” returns for its fifth season. The show’s host, Nathan Masters educates viewers on untold stories of Los Angeles’ history. Episodes include the Japanese American community of L.A.’s Crenshaw area, winemaking, and the Red Car rail transit system. “Lost LA” season five of “Lost LA” premieres March 19 at 9 p.m. on KCET in Southern California with additional showings of episodes every Tuesday on PBS SoCal at 7 p.m. Episodes will also be available to stream online.

Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore

The prequel to the successful books and films, “Harry Potter”, “Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbeldore” follows Professor Albus Dumbledore (Jude Law) as he discovers the powerful Dark wizard Gellert Grindelwald (Mads Mikkelsen) desires to take control of the entire wizard world. Unable to stop him alone, he must convince Magizoologist Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne) to lead a team of wizards, witches and a Muggle on a dangerous mission, where they encounter old and new beasts. “Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore” premieres in theaters April 15.

DC League of Super-Pets

Warner Bros. Pictures and director Jared Stern team up to create the animated action-packed film, “DC League of Super-Pets.” Krypto the Super-Dog (Dwayne Johnson) and Superman are inseparable best friends who fight crime in Metropolis side by side. When Superman and the rest of the Justice League are kidnapped, Krypto must convince his friends—Ace the hound, PB the potbellied pig, Merton the turtle and Chip the squirrel—to help rescue the superheroes. “DC League of Super-Pets” also features voices of characters including Kate McKinnon and John Krasinski. In theaters May 20.

For more TV show and movie suggests, check out our February New on Screen roundup.

New On Screen: What to Watch

Published January 28, 2022

By Simone Quary

It’s the start of the New Year! Take a look at our new shows and movies round up as we highlight family-friendly shows and movies that anyone in your household will enjoy. Our picks for January center around valuable life lessons such as community, acceptance, and positivity.

Action Pack

For those who enjoy “Ridley Jones” and “Ada Twist, Scientist,” Netflix and ICON Creative Studio team up to present the animated preschool series, “Action Pack.” Treena, Watts, Wren and Clay are a group of superhero kids who use their superpowers to protect Hope Springs. With lessons from their teacher, Mr. Ernesto, the superheroes make sure to bring out the good in everyone, including villains. Season one of “Action Pack” is available to stream on Netflix.

The Addams Family 2

Fans of the “Addams Family” will enjoy “The Addams Family 2,” the sequel to successful animated “Addams Family” from MGM and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Join the beloved Addams family as they embark on a cross-country road trip in their family RV. With family-friendly laughs and spooky hijinks, “The Addams Family 2” is great for all ages and teaches the power of family, love and acceptance. “The Addams Family 2” is currently available on Blu-ray^™, DVD and digital services, with exclusive bonus features with the cast and crew. Rated PG for macabre and rude humor, violence and language.

Secrets of Sulphur Springs

In the mood for a mystery? Season two of “Secrets of Sulphur Springs” follows Griffin (Preston Oliver) and Harper (Kyliegh Curran) as they unravel mysteries about the Tremont, a hotel with a deep family history. When Harper follows a ghost into the 1930s to learn more about her family’s connection to the Tremont, she gets stuck in the past, and has to rely on family and friends to find her way back to the present before it’s too late. Check out L.A. Parent’s Q&A with actress Madeline McGraw, who stars as Zoey Campbell on “Secrets of Sulphur Springs.” All episodes of season two are available on Disney+, with new episodes premiering Fridays on Disney Channel.

Broken Bread

Co-produced by KCET and Tastemade, “Broken Bread” follows individuals and organizations who make a difference in their communities through food. Known as an advocate for conscious cooking and community-building, Chef Roy Choi uncovers innovative culinary and agricultural practices that help with food access, food justice and community. The series explores neighborhoods across L.A. and beyond, highlighting diverse expert perspectives from Wolfgang Puck, Alice Waters and more. Season two of “Broken Bread” is available to stream on the PBS app, and airs on Jan. 30 at 8 p.m. on PBS SoCal 2.

Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild

After five films and two television specials, the creators of the globally successful “Ice Age” franchise unveil the original movie “Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild.” Seeking independence, possum brothers Crash and Eddie set out to find a place of their own. However, they find themselves trapped beneath the ice in a massive cave inhabited by dinosaurs. They are rescued by the one-eyed, adventure-loving weasel Buck Wild. Along with Buck Wild and some new friends, the brothers embark on a mission to save the Lost World from dinosaur domination. “Ice Age Adventures of Buck Wild” premieres exclusively on Disney+ on Jan. 28. The “Ice Age” collection is also available on Disney+.

Gabby’s Dollhouse

Presented by DreamWorks, the fourth season of “Gabby’s Dollhouse” follows Gabby, Pandy Paws and all the Gabby Cats as they gather to celebrate the happiest cat day of the year, Purrsday. With a surprise visit from Cakey Cat’s cousins, this season of “Gabby’s Dollhouse” focuses on the importance of learning from mistakes and having a positive mindset. Episodes also include Box Cat Family crafts, kitty dress-up with Mercat, and a performance from the pop star sensation Fluffy Flufferton. Season four of “Gabby’s Dollhouse” arrives on Netflix Feb. 1.

For more TV show and movie suggests, check out our December New on Screen roundup.

New On Screen: Shows and Movies to Watch this December

Published December 3, 2021

By Simone Quary

With the holidays this month, it is the perfect time to celebrate our accomplishments from the year and envision what we want for the next year. From baking competition shows to holiday movies, our December “New on Screen” roundup features new shows and movies that celebrate the adversities and joys of life.

Encanto

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Encanto” tells the tale of a unique family, the Madrigals. Set in the mountains of Colombia, the Madrigals reside in a vibrant town and possess the Encanto. The magic of the Encanto has blessed every child in the family with a unique gift from super strength to the power to heal—every child except one, Mirabel (voiced by Stephanie Beatriz). But when she discovers that the magic surrounding the Encanto is in danger, Mirabel decides that she must protect her family from harm. “Encanto” is playing at the El Capitan Theatre from Nov. 23 – Dec. 5. Rated PG for some thematic elements, and mild peril.

Madagascar: A Little Wild

Presented by DreamWorks, the fifth season of “Madagascar: A Little Wild” features your favorite characters from the “Madagascar” movie franchise when they were younger. Alex (voiced by Tucker Chandler), Marty (voiced by Amir O’Neil), Melman (voiced by Luke Lowe) and Gloria (voiced by Shaylin Becton) are back in New York City with adventures in and out of the “A Little Wild” rescue habitat. Episodes include Marty locking himself inside the public library, and Melman needing help to make it through his first-ever night away from the habitat. The fifth season of “Madagascar: A Little Wild” is available now to watch on Hulu and Peacock.

8 Bit Christmas (HBO Max)

HBO Max and New Line Cinema present “8 Bit Christmas,” a humorous and heartfelt holiday movie. Set in suburban Chicago in the late 80’s, ten-year old Jake (played by Winslow Fegley) embarks on a quest to get a popular video game system for Christmas. Reminiscing of his childhood, an adult Jake (played by Neil Patrick Harris) reflects upon his Christmas adventure in the 80s. The film is now available exclusively on HBO Max. Rated PG for rude humor, mild language, and suggestive references.

Mixtape (Netflix movie)

From the most popular streaming service, “Mixtape” is a coming-of-age and heartfelt movie to watch with the family. Set on the eve of Y2K (December 31^st, 1999), 12-year old Beverly Moody (played by Gemmy Brooke Allen) discovers a broken mixtape created by her teen parents that died when she was a baby. Despite her grandmother’s (played by Julie Bowen) difficulty with discussing her late parents, Beverly sets out on a journey to find all of the songs on the mixtape in an effort to learn more about her parents. “Mixtape” premiers exclusively on Netflix on Dec. 3.

Baking It!

With the holidays around the corner, it is the perfect time to tune into Peacock’s “Baking It”. Hosted by Maya Rudolph and Andy Samberg, this competition series involves teams of two talented home bakers to create savory and edible creations for a $100,000 prize. The judges include four real-life grandmas, who happen to be fantastic bakers themselves. All six episodes are available for streaming on Peacock on Dec. 2.

TrollsTopia

Based on DreamWorks Animation’s hit movie, “Trolls,” join Polly and other musical trolls for the fifth season of “TrollsTopia.” After discovering other trolls in the forest, Polly decides to invite each of the troll tribes throughout the forest to live in harmony. Episodes for this season include welcoming a K-Pop girl group on a mission, and trolls Synth and Minuet go through “The Tunnel of Friendship.” “TrollsTopia” returns with new episodes on Hulu and Peacock on Dec. 9.

West Side Story

Head to the El Capitan Theatre to watch the new adaptation of the beloved musical “West Side Story.” Directed by Academy Award® winner Steven Spielberg, from a screenplay by Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award® winner Tony Kushner, “West Side Story” tells the classic tale of fierce rivalries and young love in 1957 New York City. This musical stars Ansel Elgort (Tony), Ariana DeBose (Anita), featuring Rita Moreno (Valentina). With Academy®, Emmy®, Grammy®, Tony® and Peabody Awards under her belt, Moreno also serves as one of the films executive producers. “West Side Story” will be playing at El Capitan Theatre from Dec. 10 – Jan. 2. Tickets available now. PG-13 for some strong violence, strong language, thematic content, suggestive material and brief smoking.

Foodtastic

Hosted by Emmy^® Award winning actress Keke Palmer, “Foodtastic” is a competition show featuring talented artists across the world. Inspired by fan-favorite Disney movies and shows, the artists make extravagant sculptures with food. Episodes include “Toy Story: Toy Doctor to the Rescue” and “The Avengers: Sorceress by Day”. Along with Palmer, FLOUR SHOP founder Amirah Kassem and NYC’s City Cakes founder chef Benny Rivera serve as food art experts on the series. All episodes of “Foodtastic” will be available to stream exclusively on Disney+ on Dec. 15.

Paddington Saves Christmas

The beloved bear of children’s books stars in his own Christmas special, “Paddington Saves Christmas,” a unique virtual puppet performance made especially for kids and families. Join Paddington as he helps his grumpy neighbor, Mr. Curry, prepare his house for Christmas. Presented by Rockefeller Productions and written and directed by Jonathan Rockefeller, “Paddington Saves Christmas” is now streaming on Broadway on Demand and Marquee TV through Jan. 4.

For more ideas on what to watch with your family, check out our November New on Screen roundup.