I went to an advanced screening of Disney’s Tangled. I don’t know how they got my name–if it was because of the Moms Panel or my blog or because I just exude Disney-love, but I got to sit in a RESERVED FOR DISNEY MEDIA seat front and center at Disney’s 50th Animated Feature Film!
Now, I have to admit that we still have not seen The Princess and the Frog. Oh, we love Tiana. We have the stickers, the coloring books and everything. But we’ve never seen the movie. I just heard so much bad stuff about the voo-doo and with Lydia’s tendency to run out of the room whenever something scary happens, well, I don’t think a witch doctor is the greatest idea for her.
Anywhoo, I guess that didn’t even cross my mind when I said I’d go to an advanced screening of Tangled. Not to mention, I wasn’t even excited to see Tangled because it looked like a modern Shrek-ified version of Rapunzel. And I’m so over Shrek.
My (lack of) fears were unfounded! Tangled was THE best, most age-appropriate, Disney-esque movie to grace the silver screen since I was a kid. Seriously, it felt like a classic Disney movie with a little modern twist. My heart is still full after seeing it a week ago!
Now, let’s break it down a little, so you can understand why I think you should see this movie THE DAY IT COMES OUT IN THEATERS. I’m not very good at movie reviews because I don’t want to tell you ANYTHING–I want you to be surprised like I was! But here we go anyway…
1. The Characters.
Flynn, the leading man was voiced by my geeky-crush, Zachary Levi (yes, from Chuck). Rapunzel was voiced by Mandy Moore. They were both as adorable as could be. Flynn was a thief, yes, but not as street as Aladdin. Rapunzel was a princess (although she didn’t know it), but not as head strong as Ariel or as frou-frou as the rest. In fact, the two of them just seemed like two people you’d be friends with. Two people on an adventure together. (Or maybe that’s just because I think Zachary Levi and Mandy Moore and I would be friends in real life?)
The horse, Maximus was HYSTERICAL. Rapunzel’s friend and pet, the chameleon, Pascal was like a little chaperone and bodyguard. I couldn’t get enough of either of them.
2. Age-appropriate.
Yes, there was a kiss at the end. But guess what? It was really the story of a daughter finding her parents. Yes, parents–PLURAL. Parents who loved each other and never ever stopped hoping for their daughter. Parents who would leave a light on for their daughter FOREVER. Oh, I want to write a blog post about this! Rapunzel’s parents did the most amazing thing on Rapunzel’s birthday (I’m trying not to spoil it for you!) and it’s such a picture of how I want to be as a parent. Seriously, I’m wiping away tears right now.
Also. Rapunzel was 17. And she acted 17. She was even dressed more appropriately than most 17 year olds I know. She was not wearing a seashell bra. Or a low-cut ballgown. She had on a plain purple dress with no shoes. Freckles, slightly bucked teeth and wide eyes.
3. Scariness
Lydia hid her eyes only once. And it was not a scary part–it was a sad part. So, if you are wondering if your kids can see it–the answer is yes. If Lydia can make it through, ANYONE can make it through! There was some swashbuckling sword fighting and chasing and collapsing of stuff. And there were some scary looking thugs that turned out (in a matter of minutes) to be the most hysterical and lovable characters of the show.
The real bad dude, Mother Gothel set herself up as Rapunzel’s mom. So, even though she was mean and bad. She was a mom. It wasn’t like she was a giant squid. Or a sorcerer who could turn himself into a snake. She was about as scary as Bette Davis. (But she was a little more voluptuous than Rapunzel. Just sayin’.)
4. Talking Points
There were so many great talking points–the one I mentioned above about Rapunzel’s parents deserves a whole post, honestly. Then, the only part that made my mom-radar go “eeehhh” was from Flynn. He was using his negotiating skills to get rid of Rapunzel and tells her its normal to rebel against her parents. He was actually lying to her to make her feel guilty. But it was a good conversation starter.
There was also talk about dreams–fulfilling your dreams, going after your dreams, being true to your dream and more. It was done in a normal, everyday way. Not the look-inside-yourself-and-find-the-magic, either. It was focusing on real dreams and goals–not superficial, materialistic dreams.
Also. It’s hilarious. It was fun. And there were 2 shout-outs to puppetry. So, there you go.
You must make this your Thanksgiving movie with your fam. Eat turkey. Stick a piece of pumpkin pie in your diaper bag. Then go see Tangled. You will LOVE it. See? My kids loved it!
Contest Closed. And to get you in the Tangled-spirit, I’m giving away THREE Tangled gift-packs that include a Tangled shirt (your choice) and a pack of Tangled sillyband-type bracelets! Are you so excited?!
Leave me a comment that has something to do with Tangled…why you want to see it, stuff you’ve heard about it, how you’re jealous I already got to see it OR just leave me your favorite Disney movie and I’ll pick a winner on Saturday! Additional entries available when you tweet, facebook or otherwise tell others about this giveaway. Just leave me a comment for each.
Totally jealous!! We’re planning to see it Sunday. You reminded me to go buy tickets. Thanks!
We can’t wait to see it either- we had tickets to one of the previews, but our youngest got an outbreak of HFMD so we thought we better not spread it to the rest of the Tangled audience.
Is there a reason it’s rated PG? I kind of hate that Disney feels the need to go “edgy” for that PG rating sometimes.
Honestly, Jessie, I don’t know why it was rated PG. Maybe because of the sword fighting? I’m telling you–if Lydia can see it, anyone can!
I am so glad to hear great things about this movie! My daughter sounds a lot like Lydia (scared by a lot of things), but this movie sounds perfect for her. Can’t wait to see it!
Seriously cannot wait to go see this with my youngest who is 8. She still loves princesses and has a picture of her & Cinderella on her dresser!
I want to see Tangled because . . . well honestly because my five year old wants to see it. I love taking her to see new movies. She has a love for all things dramatic, so seeing her get so “into” the stories is a joy for me.
I’m dying to see this movie. I love Zachary Levi too so I’m already swooning at Flynn. My girls are just going to love this I know and BE GLAD you didn’t see The Princess and the Frog!
I was thinking that maybe I’d take one (or both) of my girls to see the movie over Thanksgiving weekend. Thanks for writing a review, I’m never sure these days on what Disney is putting out there, so I appreciate a ‘sneak peek’. 🙂
Thank you so much for your review – I am so glad Disney is putting out an age-appropriate, non-“controversial” movie that we can all enjoy! I’m not the princess movies, either, so it’s nice that this princess is a normal girl!
Thanks for the review. I was wanting to take my 6 yr old to see it but after the Princess and the Frog I wasn’t so sure. Now I’m excited to take him.
Soooo happy to hear that another little girl of similar age as mine was not afraid. My daughter wants to go see it, but is easily frightened. I was watching Mulan the other week and she watched it from the doorway, instead of on the couch with me (by the way she loved it). Plus, the characters sound fantastic. I’m over the princess redux w/ all the drawings of them featuring insanely curvature features that little girls don’t even need to be thinking about. I like the movies fine, for the most part, it’s just the recent merchandise….
Anyways! REALLY cannot wait to see Tangled!
Oh im so excited to see this. It comes out right in time for my soon to be six year olds birthday so it sounds perfect to take her to! We would love to win and I’m excited for a good Disney movie!
I’ve heard so much about this movie. I can’t wait to see it with my kids.
BTW, my all time fave is Beauty & the Beast.
definitely excited to see it after your reviews. my daughter is obsessed with princesses but its been hard to find a disney princess movie i approve of for a lot of your reasons listed.
I really want to take my 4yo to see it! She has never been to a movie in the theater, because we haven’t come across anything that isn’t scary or inappropriate. She would LOVE this!
I tweeted! http://twitter.com/#!/Jenidvm/statuses/5037971916984320
Even with two boys I totally want to take them to see it. I think Junior would love the antics. He laughs at the previews.
Thank you so much for posting this review. I am always a little leery of Disney movies and their underlying secular junk, but this one sounds adorable. Thank you also for the gift prize opportunity!
I too am waiting with much anticipation! This was a great posting because it gave just enough information without spoilers. I am glad that you have hinted about the fact that Rapunzel has both parents. I brought this up on another forum and was attacked. Regardless, it looks like a movie full of laughs, cheers and yes, even tears. Can’t wait!
Ok, I have to admit, I wasn’t even remotely thinking of going to see this movie…. until I read your review! I will be with my sisters for Thanksgiving, and I think this would be a wonderful outing to share with our kiddos!
So glad you did a review… I was wondering about Tangled since I was so disappointed with all the evilness of the Princess and the Frog. So you give me some hope….but I’ll have to make a date night about of it with my hubby before taking my 4 & 5 year old girls to see it. NOT that I don’t trust your review because I do think we are probably on the same page with many things….But you know…..it’s a Mommy thing.
LOL! Good call, Tricia! Actually, after reading all these comments I got worried b/c I’m afraid someone is going to hate the movie and blame me!! 🙂
Posting the review and info about giveaway on my FB page!
We can’t wait to see it!
Amanda,
What would my teenagers think? Aged 15 & 16+. We watched Toy Story 3 last weekend and they loved it. But what about Tangled? Too girly?
Thanks,
–david
I don’t think it’s too girly. Like I said there was lots of swashbuckling fighting. And all the comic relief was guys–the thugs, the horse, Pascal, etc.
Of course, I think EVERYONE would like it! 😉
I’m totally jealous! Emily and I can’t wait to see it. My favorite princess has always been Belle, but I have room for another 😉
Me, too, Gina! Honestly, I feel like I’m cheating on Belle!
This will be the perfect movie to take my daughter for her 8th birthday in a couple of weeks.
True confessions here…. We are SO excited to see this film. My mother, who writes for the St. Petersburg Times, also got a press kit and an advance-screening offer. Since she is a religion writer and doesn’t review movies anyway, she is waiting to see it with us next weekend so she can have the fun of seeing it with her granddaughters. Both my 16-year-old and 8-year-old are looking forward to the movie. (Me Too)
HI Amanda!!! I am so jealous that you got to see this movie!!!! I am also a disney lover!!! We have season passes and I love all things Disney!! I even auditioned for the mom’s panel this year because of a post you did!!! Anyway, I wanted to tell you that you should really see Princess and the Frog. I have a 4 year old who is also scared of lots of things, but I always fastforward thru the shadow man part…other than that the music is phenominal!!!!! I think your kids would love it!!! I’m hoping Tangled is as great as Princess and the Frog was!!!
I can not wait to see Tangled. I’ve heard glowing reviews about the movie and I’m just a Disney lover so I’ll definitely be checking this one out in the theater in a week or so.
My all-time favorite Disney movie is Enchanted & The Little Mermaid!
But, really, I just love all Disney movies.
Gee…normally you hear about Disney movies far in advance it seems and this is the first I have heard of this movie just now. Guess I’m outta the loop on this one. My fave Disney animated movie so far is ‘Fantasia’ but maybe it will be replaced with Tangled. 🙂
Oh my goodness — I’m not even commenting just to be entered to win; I just want to say THANK YOU! Our oldest (who you know is just like Lydia in the scaredy-cat department) has been dying to see this movie, and I’ve been so worried about how she will really handle it since I couldn’t find any reviews yet. (And, um, we went to Tiana — I was so disappointed by the voodoo part :(, and that might explain my hesitancy this time. Lesson learned.)
She can’t wait for her daddy date to go see it, and now I can’t wait until it comes out on video so I can see it too!
Thanks, Amanda!
Mandi, really, I was sitting in the theater just WAITING for something bad to happen. And it never did! Lydia got a little tense when the thugs came on but I told her to hang on b/c I could sense the gag coming–and w/in 2 minutes, they were hysterical and adorable!
She didn’t get upset during any of the sword fight stuff. And then the very end (I don’t want to say what happens but there is a little blood) is when she got upset and closed her eyes. But I was looking at her like, “Lydia, this isn’t scary! Why are you closing your eyes?!” It was because it was sad–emotional. And I think that’s how you said your daughter is, right?
But I have to admit so many people saying they are taking their shy kids is making me nervous! 🙂
I can’t wait! I’m jealous you’ve seen it already. I’m writing this sitting under my giant Tangled poster (thanks Disney Movie Rewards). Im already planning my trip to the cinema to see it.
Retweeted your contest as well!
My kids want to see this so I’m seriously considering braving the crowds and going on Thanksgiving weekend. It looks cute!
I’d love to take my daughter to see it. She’s already asking for the barbie for Christmas.
Rapunzel is one of my favorite princesses so I am excited about the movie.
SO jealous you got to see it!! My girls 2 & 4 have checked the book out NUMEROUS times from the library and already seem to know the story by heart. The 4 year old has asked for nothing else for Christmas other than a “purple Rapunzel dress.” They are associating Thanksgiving with finally getting to see it!!
I am so happy to hear that you liked this!! I can’t wait to see it!!!
It is quiet possible that I want to see this movie just as much as our daughters (or more, in fact!) And after reading your review, it completely solidifies it! I’d love to take our whole family to see it! 🙂
And…I tweeted about this giveaway!
Thank you SO much for your review and info! I’m thinking of taking my 4 y/o dtr to see it, but she’s never been to a theater and 1) I didn’t want it to be overwhelming, and 2) I’m a freak-mom about appropriate content (your remarks comparing Ariel, etc were cracking me up!!). So…I think we’ll go see it. And now I’m even excited about it. Thanks!! And have a Happy Thanksgiving with your beautiful family!! 🙂
My kids are 17 and 15 and they want TANGLED to be their birthday movie! 🙂 I’m glad Disney has done it again and has provided us with a fun, family outing!
klah
We can’t wait to see this. I’m so glad you did a review since Olivia and Lydia are so similar in what scares them and what they like. Now I know it will be perfect for her. Josh’s sister Jennifer works for Disney Radio, so she gets all kinds of Disney stuff, and we can’t wait until she unloads the Tangled stuff.
Jealous? Jealous! Oh, sister, you don’t even KNOW. My 3yo has watched the Tangled trailer more times than he’s actually watched the Toy Story 3 DVD it appears on! And he parks DAILY on the Tangled website to poke around. I kid you not. I am so, so, so beyond excited to see this!
Ok, I’m not as jealous as I am happy for you. How fun for you and the kids to go! 😀
Oh fun! I just saw a preview for this last night. It looks super cute. I’d have to say, my favorite Disney movie of all time is probably, Aladdin or The Lion King. I can’t choose just one!
Nice info Amanda! I knew we could count on you!! I agree with the VooDoo on The Frog Princess, my little prince has to hide his eyes but we do love the movie and of course I’m loving that Tiana’s mom makes princess dresses for the world ah ha!
I’m anxious to see the movie for the DRESS! But I will have to make two of them in the next week before seeing the details. One for my daughter to wear to the opening night and one is on order. This dress is a sweet sweet design and I agree with you that it’s a nice age appropriate style. Purpley pink is a lovely change from all the other princess gowns for sure 🙂
I will be seeing it with my oldest daughter and my youngest daughter… maybe even little brother if you think a 4 year old boy would love it too?? He’s very princess tolerant, cause he has to be in this house, but is there enough action adventure for brothers do you think?
Oh, Jodi! I think it’s totally a boy movie! He’ll love the thugs–and Flynn is hysterical!
Thanks so much for the review! One of the malls here are having a movie and breakfast in a couple of weeks and I think it would be so much fun to take my daughter, but she is super sensitive about movies. She watches Cinderella and Cars, and that’s about it. I don’t know how old your little one is, but my daughter is 3 1/2. I’m still not sure if we’ll try it out, but I’m really tempted after reading your review!
Jennifer–my daughter is 4.5. We watched Beauty and the Beast at home (during the day!) and she ran out of the room when the Beast came on. So, that’s saying something that she watched this. But each kid is different! You might want to see it first b/c you know her best!
Well, your review makes me want to see it! But, also, I’ve wanted to see it because- I kid you not- that Flynn character looks EXACTLY like an animated version of my best friend’s little brother. It’s uncanny.
My daughter wants to see this, she has long hair so was drawn to it, lol. I like that the guy is the actor from Chuck, love him! My fav disney movie is Alice in Wonderland & 101 Dalmatians!
Can’t wait!!!! We even had to watch the Barbie version last night because my AH wanted to see ‘punzal! Then she wanted to know where the lizard was!!!!