Recently when Mom Central asked for bloggers willing to host a movie get together to screen a new cartoon, A Turtle’s Tale 2: Sammy Escapes From Paradise, I was happy to apply. Movies are a staple for us, and while we have our favourites it’s fun to find new journeys to take on film.
What was more exciting was the chance to host friends for the screening. I ended up getting some under-the-sea themed party decorations and made up a few activities for our guests.
The kids watching the movie ranged in ages from 4 to 10. The movie is rated G so I knew it would be family friendly, but do understand that all kids enjoy movies differently.
Movie Fun
To begin, we had two activities. The first was a wall mural colouring activity where participants were encouraged to draw things that they would find under the sea. This was super cute to see what they could come up with – from mermaids, to seals, to a submarine – and how they draw given the different ages.
The next game was a fun one using water sponge animals (shark, fish, and turtles of course) and a sand pail. Each kid had an animal and took turns standing behind the line to try and get their animal into the sand bucket. Afterwards, they each went home with their new water toy too!
What about the movie?
After making a giant batch of popcorn, and then later another (these kids love some popcorn!) we dove into the movie.
The kid-consensus was all positive. They really liked the story it seemed and I have to say that the entire time they were engrossed, my daughter was the only one starting to move a little towards the end of the film. Otherwise, they were anxious to see how the little sea turtles Ella and Ricky try to help their grandpa’s, Sam and Ray, who are trying to escape from an exotic aquarium.
The parent-consensus (me) is that it was a super cute film with the usual peril-then-rescue formula that many of these movies have. We know they are going to be fine so even the so-called scarier parts weren’t as tense as some movies. (And keep in mind – my kids watch Star Wars). And most importantly, my kids really enjoyed it! (Note: The use of the word ‘suicide’ as in ‘that would be a suicide mission!’ was used. It’s a word that the kids haven’t asked about yet but could cause conversation. Toy Story used it as well).
It’s a short, fun story and that is gorgeous. What really blew me away was the animation and colours. The animals were less cartoony and more realistic, right to the point where I kind of felt bad for the lobster who looked like my recent meals. It was eye-catching plus a fun film.
You can actually watch the original A Turtle’s Tale on Netflix right now and look for the sequel to rent or purchase which was available on July 9!
We had a lot of fun hosting a movie theatre event and I plan to do it again!
Do you watch movies with the kids? Have you set up a movie viewing party before?
Disclosure: I am participating in A Turtle’s Tale 2 – Sammy Escapes From Paradise Blogger Campaign by Mom Central Canada. I received compensation as a thank you for participating and for sharing my honest opinion. The opinions on this blog are my own.