NEW YORK – The following are capsule reviews from Catholic News Service of new and recent video releases available on DVD and/or Blu-ray – as well as for online viewing. Theatrical movies have a Catholic News Service classification and Motion Picture Association rating. These classifications refer only to the theatrical version of the films below, and do not take into account any extra content.
“Slay the Dragon” (2020)
Well-crafted but distinctly partisan documentary examining the impact of gerrymandering on American politics. Filmmakers Barak Goodman and Chris Durrance use the struggle of a Michigan group called Voters Not Politicians, founded by political novice Katie Fahey, to end the practice in that state as the starting point for a wide-ranging exploration of the history and current status of the activity, with particular focus on North Carolina and Wisconsin. While they make the case that representatives assured of reelection are likely to be more radical, less cooperative across party lines and less responsive to constituents, their view that the fault for abusive redistricting lies predominantly with Republicans will not sit well with conservative viewers. Possibly acceptable for mature adolescents, a fleeting barrage of vulgar language notwithstanding. About a half-dozen rough terms, two images of the F-word in print but with ellipses, a couple of crude expressions, a mild oath. The Catholic News Service classification is A-III – adults. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG-13 – parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. (Magnolia Home Entertainment)
“Trolls World Tour” (2020)
Animated musical follow-up to the 2016 original in which the pair at the center of the first story, the ever-optimistic queen (voice of Anna Kendrick) of the pop-music trolls and her more fearful best friend (voice of Justin Timberlake) discover that there are other nations of their kind, each dedicated to a particular genre of melody and that the malicious sovereign (voice of Rachel Bloom) of the hard-rock tribe is out to conquer or destroy all the rest. As the duo embarks on a quest to unite everyone in resistance to this move, the ruler’s pal tries to work up the courage to tell her that he loves her. With its psychedelic palette, upbeat energy and fun interludes of song, returning director Walt Dohrn’s adventure is a delightful diversion, one that also carries lessons about tolerance, respect for differing identities and the power of self-sacrificing love. Only a bit of very mild potty humor and the potentially confusing origin of a new character may prove bothersome to the parents of the youngest viewers. An unusual birth, a brief scatological sight gag. Spanish language and titles options. The Catholic News Service classification is A-II – adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG – parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. (Universal Studios Home Entertainment; also available on Blu-ray)
Mulderig is on the staff of Catholic News Service.