Reviews: What's New This Week
Categories: Fun & Activities, That's Entertainment
Here is a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.
In Theaters Now: This Is It
Michael Jackson was planning a 50-date concert tour when he unexpectedly passed away in June 2009. "This Is It" showcases footage of rehearsals for that tour and other than some crotch-grabbing and zombie images, there is nothing to be concerned about. With great music and awesome dancing, it's Michael Jackson doing what he did best. Rated PG, OK for Kids 10+
DVD: Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure
A movie about friendship starring the most famous fairy in the world, "Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure" is the latest release from the Disney Fairies franchise. A few scary scenes involving spooky shadows and rats as well as some juvenile name-calling are balanced with the overall message about the importance of doing the right thing. Rated G, OK for Kids 4+
TV: Weird Creatures
An educational series on the Science Channel, "Weird Creatures" follows naturalist Nick Baker as he travels the globe looking for unusual animals in their natural habitats. With a strong eco-message and Baker's upbeat style, it's educational as well as entertaining. Rated TV-G, OK for Kids 8+
Books: The Frog Scientist
A realistic portrayal of scientific research, "The Frog Scientist" is not for the squeamish. Although tastefully presented, there are photos of frog dissections and discussions of frogs being killed for research. Readers may find featured scientist Tyrone Haynes to be inspirational as he discusses overcoming his own struggles in school with hard work and dedication. OK for Kids 9+
Music: Celebration (Madonna)
A greatest hits compilation, "Celebration" features all the popular songs that earned Madonna her reputation as a boundary-pushing chameleon. 35 songs on 2 CD's represent a body of work that has spanned nearly three decades. Compared to popular music today, Madonna's lyrics seem almost tame, but the Material Girl's image make her an inappropriate role model for youngsters. OK for Kids 12+
Games: Nancy Drew: Warnings at Waverly Academy
A game for Windows, "Nancy Drew: Warnings at Waverly Academy" features everybody's favorite teen sleuth. Players take on the role of Nancy as she tries to unravel a mystery at an elite boarding school for girls. Although a bit easier to play than some of the previous Nancy Drew PC games, players will still be challenged and entertained. Rated E, OK for Kids 9+
Web: Zui Tube
Like You Tube for kids, "Zui Tube" bills itself as the largest collection of online videos for kids. All the material is pre-screened and parent-approved, but the inclusion of lots of clips from television shows and movies make the site seem overly commercialized. Created by KidZui, a browser for kids, it's a safe place for young people to spend some screen time. OK for Kids 7+

In Theaters Now: This Is It
Michael Jackson was planning a 50-date concert tour when he unexpectedly passed away in June 2009. "This Is It" showcases footage of rehearsals for that tour and other than some crotch-grabbing and zombie images, there is nothing to be concerned about. With great music and awesome dancing, it's Michael Jackson doing what he did best. Rated PG, OK for Kids 10+
DVD: Tinker Bell and the Lost TreasureA movie about friendship starring the most famous fairy in the world, "Tinker Bell and the Lost Treasure" is the latest release from the Disney Fairies franchise. A few scary scenes involving spooky shadows and rats as well as some juvenile name-calling are balanced with the overall message about the importance of doing the right thing. Rated G, OK for Kids 4+
TV: Weird Creatures
An educational series on the Science Channel, "Weird Creatures" follows naturalist Nick Baker as he travels the globe looking for unusual animals in their natural habitats. With a strong eco-message and Baker's upbeat style, it's educational as well as entertaining. Rated TV-G, OK for Kids 8+
Books: The Frog ScientistA realistic portrayal of scientific research, "The Frog Scientist" is not for the squeamish. Although tastefully presented, there are photos of frog dissections and discussions of frogs being killed for research. Readers may find featured scientist Tyrone Haynes to be inspirational as he discusses overcoming his own struggles in school with hard work and dedication. OK for Kids 9+
Music: Celebration (Madonna)
A greatest hits compilation, "Celebration" features all the popular songs that earned Madonna her reputation as a boundary-pushing chameleon. 35 songs on 2 CD's represent a body of work that has spanned nearly three decades. Compared to popular music today, Madonna's lyrics seem almost tame, but the Material Girl's image make her an inappropriate role model for youngsters. OK for Kids 12+
Games: Nancy Drew: Warnings at Waverly AcademyA game for Windows, "Nancy Drew: Warnings at Waverly Academy" features everybody's favorite teen sleuth. Players take on the role of Nancy as she tries to unravel a mystery at an elite boarding school for girls. Although a bit easier to play than some of the previous Nancy Drew PC games, players will still be challenged and entertained. Rated E, OK for Kids 9+
Web: Zui Tube
Like You Tube for kids, "Zui Tube" bills itself as the largest collection of online videos for kids. All the material is pre-screened and parent-approved, but the inclusion of lots of clips from television shows and movies make the site seem overly commercialized. Created by KidZui, a browser for kids, it's a safe place for young people to spend some screen time. OK for Kids 7+

Recent Posts
- G.I. Joe, My Little Pony Invading TV With New Children's Network (2/09/2010)
- Movies May Influence Children's Food Choices, Study Shows (2/09/2010)
- Report Cites 220 Cases of D.C. Teachers Abusing Students (2/09/2010)
- Chicago Candidate Drops Out of Race With Tearful Child On Display (2/09/2010)
- Juicy, But Not Juice (2/09/2010)





