Movies, Film, and Chili

How to Train Your Dragon (2025) is directed by Dean DeBlois , who also wrote and directed the original animated trilogy as well as Lilo & Stitch . His return to the property ensures a faithful live-action adaptation that honors the tone and emotional core of the original. Visually, the film captures the bond between humans and dragons, with the exception of some controversial choices in casting presentation. Mason Thames , best known for The Black Phone , gives his best performance yet as Hiccup. He brings a believable vulnerability and growth to the role, matching the spirit of the original character while adding more emotional nuance in live-action. Nico Parker plays Astrid and is strong in the role, though the decision to light and style her to resemble a white Viking, despite her mixed heritage, has sparked justified conversation. Despite that, Parker's acting is solid, and she handles the action and emotional beats well. You might remember her from Dumbo. Gerard Butle...

Lilo & Stitch (2025)  is the live-action adaptation of the animated Disney classic. Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp , best known for Marcel the Shell with Shoes On , this adaptation brings surprising heart and care to the beloved animated original. The casting is where this film truly excels. It's weird to think that he has no upcoming movies after this. Perhaps he's stuck in negotiations. Sydney Agudong is a perfect Nani. Not just because she’s from Hawai‘i, but because she balances the character’s stressed responsibility with quiet strength. This is her breakout role, and I'm stoked for her future movies. It's too bad she hasn't been cast in anything worthwhile yet.  Maia Kealoha , as Lilo, could’ve derailed the whole thing if she missed the mark, but she doesn’t. She brings emotional gravity and mischief in just the right balance. She'll be in an upcoming movie that has an all-star cast called The Wrecking Crew . So look forward to that. Tia Carrere , w...