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Reviews: What's New This Week

Filed under: Shopping, Books for Kids, Music, Video Games

Going the Distance

Drew Barrymore and Justin Long star in "Going the Distance." Credit: Jessica Miglio, Warner Bros. / AP

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: "Going the Distance"
A romantic comedy starring Drew Barrymore, "Going the Distance" features two young lovers trying to make a long-distance romance work. It's a realistic depiction of the emotional and sexual frustrations inherent in such a geographically-challenged relationship. Rough language, drugs, alcohol and very frank discussions about sex earn this film its rating. Rated R, iffy for kids 16-18

DVD: "Marmaduke"
Potty humor and doggy romance are the hallmarks of "Marmaduke," a live-action film featuring the famously large comic strip character. In this dog-out-of-water film, the mutts act like teenagers and the dog park takes the place of the cliquish world of high school. Occasionally funny and never offensive, it's sure to be a hit with fans of the talking animal genre. Rated PG, OK for kids 8+

TV: "Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam"
In the anxiously-awaited and heavily-promoted "Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam," the gang reassembles for another summer of music. A rival camp across the lake provides the drama while a few budding romances give the girls something to sigh about. Upbeat and positive, the film is Disney at its squeaky-clean best. Not Rated, OK for kids 8+

Books: "Mockingjay: The Hunger Games, Book 3"
The third and final installment in author Suzanne Collins' "Hunger Games" series, "Mockingjay: The Hunger Games, Book 3" continues the story of an oppressed people trying to break free. The science fiction tale may be violent and dark, but it's well written and has an important message about hope and courage. OK for kids 12+

Music: "Just the Way You Are" by Bruno Mars
A single release by Bruno Mars, "Just the Way You Are" has a positive message for kids of all ages. With clean lyrics and a cool R&B sound, Mars sings about inner beauty and loving his girl despite the flaws she sees in herself. OK for kids 8+

Web: ScuttlePad
A social networking site for preteens, "ScuttlePad" is a great way for young Internet users to get their feet wet in the world of online communication. Users can post status updates and chat using only preapproved text and uploaded photos are reviewed before going live. OK for kids 7+

Games: Ivy the Kiwi
For Nintendo DS, DSi and Wii, "Ivy the Kiwi" is an adventure game featuring an odd baby bird searching for her mother. Players guide Ivy past obstacles by making vines that serve as ramps, barricades, catapults and more. While Ivy can be hurt while on her journey, she reacts only with a surprised look on her face before falling off screen. Rated E, OK for kids 8+

Related:
Time to Swipe the Page: More iPad Picture Books

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