Cine Beaverhausen: The Jungle Book: Live Action Version

Disney's live version of The Jungle Book, directed by Jon Favreau of all people, is a film in overdrive, though it may entertain kids and some adults.

I found its special effects to be over-the-top and more than a tad ham-handed. You can see it in the movies now, including in 3-D.

Neel Setl stars and is brilliant as Mowgli. Ben Kingsley, who famously plays Indians so so well, is in this as are Scarlett Johansson, Bill Murray, and the late Garry Shandling.

Even as a kid, the animated version of this Rudyard Kipling tale was never a favorite. It seems completely redundant to me now. This film opened in theaters yesterday. I say you can wait it out on video.

The story presents a Rousseau-like idea of nature when, in fact, these large animals would probably have eaten him alive.

Disney should have heeded The Bear Necessities rather than go into this mostly overwrought feature! The joi de vivre of the animated original has sadly dissipated.

Buddy Beaverhausen's Random Thoughts: Groundhog Day 2016

Today is Groundhog Day. It's an American ritual dating back to the 19th century.

A top-hat wearing "Inner Circle" announce Punxsutawney Phil's prediction at sunrise.

And ~ hoorah! ~ Phil, the groundhog, didn't see his shadow, predicting an early Spring. I think he might be right!

We had a blizzard here in NYC but it's basically been a mild winter with temperatures back on the rise in February.

Bill Murray had a very successful film comedy about Groundhog Day, entitled just that. Recommended viewing for the day. And, no, everyone, work places do not give workers a day off today in the United States.

ps: This is only the 18th time in history Phil has predicted an early spring. Love you, Punxy!