Actresses Heidi Blickenstaff (“The Little Mermaid” and “Something Rotten!” on Broadway and the stage production of “Freaky Friday”) and Cozi Zuehlsdorff (“Dolphin Tale,” “Liv and Maddie”) will star in an update of the American classic “Freaky Friday,” a Disney Channel musical comedy set to begin production this fall for a 2018 debut as part of the Disney Channel Original Movie franchise. The movie is based on Disney Theatrical Productions’ stage adaptation of the celebrated novel by Mary Rodgers and Disney’s popular feature films of the same name.
Steve Carr (“Paul Blart: Mall Cop,” “Daddy Daycare”) will direct and executive produce the upcoming movie. The teleplay was written by Bridget Carpenter, who also wrote the book for the stage musical “Freaky Friday,” created the series “11.22.63,” and wrote for TV’s “Friday Night Lights.” Also signing on to the “Freaky Friday” movie are Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award®-winning composers Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey (“Next to Normal,” “If/Then”), who penned the music and lyrics for the stage version. Emmy® nominee David Lawrence (“Descendants,” “High School Musical”) will compose the score. Susan Cartsonis (“Deidra & Laney Rob a Train,” “What Women Want”) and Thomas Schumacher, president and producer, Disney Theatrical Productions (“The Lion King”, “Aladdin” and “Frozen” opening on Broadway in spring 2018), are also executive producers. Two-time Tony nominee John Carrafa (“Into the Woods,” “Urinetown”) is the choreographer and Perry Andelin Blake (“Middle School – the Worst Years of My Life,” “The Wedding Singer”) is the production designer. Academy Award® winner Angus Strathie (“Moulin Rouge!,” “Deadpool”) is the costume designer.
“A classic story like ‘Freaky Friday’ has a magical capacity to engage multiple generations – whether it’s in the form of a book, a theatrical film, a stage show – or all of the above!” said Gary Marsh, president and chief creative officer, Disney Channels Worldwide. “Working with our partners at Disney Live Theatrical, we’re thrilled to bring this classic story to life in a whole new form – a music-driven movie for television – that will be enjoyed by tens of millions of kids and families around the world.”
Blickenstaff reprises her role of Katherine from the stage show and Zuehlsdorff will play Ellie in the comedic story that follows an overworked mother and her teenage daughter who magically swap bodies and begin a musical journey of self-discovery and empathy neither one could have ever imagined.
Also joining the cast is newcomer Ricky He as Ellie’s friend, Adam; and Alex Désert (“Let it Shine”) as Katherine’s fiancé, Mike. Disney Channel star Jason Maybaum (“Raven’s Home”) will play Ellie’s little brother, Fletcher. Kahyun Kim (“Austin & Ally”) has been cast as Torrey, Katherine’s high-strung business associate. Additional cast members include Dara R. Moss as Savannah, Jennifer LaPorte as Monica, Isaiah Lehtinen as Karl and Sarah Willey as Kitty.
“Freaky Friday” was first brought to the screen in 1976 with the popular Disney film starring Barbara Harris and Jodie Foster. In 1995, Shelley Long and Gaby Hoffman took over the lead roles in a Disney Family Movie for ABC; and in 2003, “Freaky Friday” returned to the big screen for a Walt Disney Pictures feature film headlined by Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan.
The stage musical was developed by Disney Theatrical Productions for licensing to professional and amateur theatres.
Netflix’s Black and White Spoon is a Korean culinary competition series that seamlessly blends artistry, culture, and high-stakes drama into an unforgettable viewing experience. From its sleek production values to its deeply emotional storytelling, this show offers more than just tantalizing dishes—it serves a heartfelt exploration of culinary passion and perseverance.
The series pits contestants against each other in a dual-themed format where they must create dishes inspired by opposing concepts—light versus dark, sweet versus savory, or tradition versus innovation. This premise challenges the chefs’ creativity while providing viewers with visually stunning plates and fascinating backstories about Korean cuisine and its global influences.
The judges are a mix of culinary experts, celebrity chefs, and cultural critics, each bringing a unique perspective. Their feedback is sharp, insightful, and, at times, surprisingly emotional, further heightening the tension.
What sets Black and White Spoon apart is its emphasis on storytelling through food. Each episode dives deep into Korean culinary heritage, intertwining it with personal anecdotes from the contestants. Dishes are not merely judged on technical precision but also on the emotional resonance they evoke. For instance, a simple kimchi stew becomes a tribute to family ties, while a modern take on bibimbap showcases the fusion of tradition and innovation.
The cinematography deserves special mention. Every shot of sizzling grills, delicately plated meals, and reactions from the judges feels like an art piece. The pacing, however, can sometimes feel uneven. While the personal stories add emotional weight, they occasionally overshadow the cooking itself, leaving food enthusiasts craving more behind-the-scenes action in the kitchen.
Black and White Spoon is an inspiring and visually rich series that celebrates the art of cooking and the complexities of Korean cuisine. Its emotional depth and cultural insight make it a standout in the crowded genre of food competition shows, though slightly better pacing could elevate it further.
This is a must-watch for foodies, fans of Korean culture, and anyone who loves the blend of artistry and competition in culinary storytelling.
Final Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Thanksgiving may not have the sheer volume of movies as Christmas, but it’s no less special when it comes to heartwarming, funny, and even chaotic films that capture the holiday spirit. Here’s a ranked list of the top Thanksgiving movies you should add to your holiday viewing tradition.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
Why Watch: The definitive Thanksgiving movie, John Hughes’ comedy about an unlikely duo (Steve Martin and John Candy) trying to make it home for Thanksgiving is equal parts hilarious and heartwarming.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (10/10)
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
Why Watch: This animated classic reminds us of the simple joys of friendship and togetherness, all with Snoopy’s iconic charm. Perfect for family viewing.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9/10)
The Blind Side (2009)
Why Watch: A feel-good drama about family, generosity, and second chances, this Sandra Bullock-led film captures the spirit of Thanksgiving through its heartwarming true story.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (8/10)
Pieces of April (2003)
Why Watch: A raw and quirky indie film starring Katie Holmes as a black sheep daughter trying to host Thanksgiving for her estranged family. It’s funny, awkward, and touching in equal measure.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (8/10)
Home for the Holidays (1995)
Why Watch: Directed by Jodie Foster, this chaotic comedy-drama starring Holly Hunter captures the ups and downs of a family Thanksgiving in all its messy glory.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (7/10)
Addams Family Values (1993)
Why Watch: The hilarious Thanksgiving play sequence alone earns this gothic comedy a spot on the list. The Addams family’s twisted charm is perfect for holiday laughs.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (7/10)
Dutch (1991)
Why Watch: This underrated road-trip comedy follows Ed O’Neill as a man escorting his girlfriend’s bratty son home for Thanksgiving, delivering laughs and heartfelt moments.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (6/10)
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
Why Watch: Though more closely associated with Christmas, this classic opens during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and celebrates holiday magic and kindness.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (6/10)
Scent of a Woman (1992)
Why Watch: Al Pacino’s Oscar-winning performance anchors this drama about loyalty and redemption, set against a backdrop of Thanksgiving break.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/10)
Tower Heist (2011)
- Why Watch: A lighthearted heist comedy featuring Eddie Murphy and Ben Stiller, set during the Thanksgiving season. It’s not deep, but it’s a fun, entertaining watch.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/10)
Honorable Mentions
The Ice Storm (1997): A dark Thanksgiving drama for those who prefer serious fare.
Hannah and Her Sisters (1986): Thanksgiving frames this Woody Allen classic about family dynamics.
With this lineup, you’ll have plenty of options to keep your Thanksgiving movie marathon as memorable as the feast itself!
directed by Prashanth Neel, brings a bold and gritty spectacle to the big screen, marking a triumphant return for Prabhas in an action-heavy role. Known for his high-energy, raw style (seen in KGF), Neel continues his signature approach here, blending intense action scenes with grandiose settings reminiscent of epic sagas like Game of Thrones. The film revolves around Deva (Prabhas), a powerful yet calm figure with a complex past, and his involvement in a politically charged power struggle with Prithviraj Sukumaran’s character Varadha. This layered storyline introduces us to the fictitious city of Khansar, where betrayals and power dynamics keep viewers on edge.
Critics generally appreciate Prabhas’s magnetic performance, noting that he captures the larger-than-life heroism he’s celebrated for since Baahubali. His portrayal, paired with intense fight choreography, keeps the audience engaged, particularly during standout sequences that elevate the film’s dramatic intensity. Prithviraj’s character as Deva’s friend adds an intriguing dynamic, though Shruti Haasan’s role feels underused. While fans of action-packed cinema and Prabhas’s iconic style will enjoy the exhilarating visuals and powerful cinematography, some critics feel the plot loses momentum in the second half, with multiple subplots that dilute its emotional depth. The story is intentionally left open-ended, setting the stage for Salaar: Part 2.
Overall, Salaar is an ambitious action film that will satisfy fans of Prabhas and high-octane spectacles. However, those seeking a tight narrative or deep emotional connections might find it lacking. I’d rate it 3.5 out of 5 stars—a solid experience for action enthusiasts, with room for a more focused storyline in its sequel.
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