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Five for Families: Films take comics from page to screen
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"Annie" (1982) - photo by Deseret Connect
Here are five movies from various platforms families may want to consider. Because not all are appropriate for younger children, age recommendations are included.

Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, Schroeder and the rest of Charles Schulz's now beloved Peanuts characters made their jump from the comic strip to the television set and now to the big screen with the recent release of "The Peanuts Movie." Here are five films based on comic strips or comic books:

In theaters: 'The Peanuts Movie'

Snoopy pursues his nemesis and Charlie Brown seeks to beat the odds stacked against him. The Dove Foundation awarded the film its Dove Family-Approved seal for all ages, calling it a delightful and charming film that the whole family can enjoy that is clever, funny, and remains true to the original characters in Schulzs comic strip. Enjoy the slapstick moments, the humor, and those lovable characters, the website adds. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 3 and older.

Amazon Instant: 'Annie' (1982)

A wealthy man takes in "Little Orphan Annie" to improve his public image and attempts to help her locate her family. Parent Previews says a "little girl hoping for a family" is the core of this film and that "rambunctious dance scenes" and "catchy tunes" set the film apart. The website states that some elements such as children in peril may frighten young children. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 7 and older.

iTunes: 'Dennis the Menace'

A well-meaning young boy stays with his neighbors while his parents are out of town but ends up causing havoc. MovieGuide.org refers to the film as a "harmless, entertaining treat," praising its theme that "people and relationships are valued and important." The film is rated PG for comedic mischief. Ok.com recommends the film for viewers ages 8 and older.

Redbox: 'Captain America'

A serum transforms a rejected soldier into the ultimate military man. Common Sense Media states that while "Captain America" has action violence that would be expected from superhero films, the film also portrays a main character who is "wholesome, compassionate and brave." Ok.com recommends the film for ages 11 and older.

Amazon Instant: 'The Adventures of Tintin'

A reporter named Tintin on the search for a good story embarks on a treasure hunt. The Dove Foundation compares Tintin to a "young Indiana Jones" and refers to the film as "thrilling and wildly funny." The film is rated PG for adventure action, violence, some drunkenness and brief smoking. Ok.com recommends the film for ages 8 and older.
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Have You Seen This? Street musician slays with clarinet
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Better than almost every face-melting guitar or drum solo. - photo by Facebook video screenshot

THE BIG EASY — Yeah, yeah, we all know that New Orleans is stuffed to the gills will incredible musicians.

But knowing that fact and then hearing that fact are two different things. You can step into any number of jazz clubs on any given night on Bourbon Street, and you’ll probably be impressed with virtually every act. Or you can sit at home on your comfy couch and watch this featured video.

In the video, you’ll see a woman who is in the groove. She is swinging hard, and wailing on her clarinet with a practiced expertise that makes it sounds so easy.

From note one you’ll be drawn in; your appreciation will grow with every second, and then your face will melt off when you realize how incredible she really is.

If you’ve never played a woodwind or a brass, you may not know everything that comes with a performance like this. Lung capacity and breath control are huge factors in keeping your notes clear and loud, and hitting those high notes is especially difficult.

So when this woman hits that high note and holds it for several seconds, you know you’re dealing with an exceptional musician. It means she has worked hard for years to develop skill on top of her natural talent, and we get to benefit.

It kinda makes you wonder how we let people get away with mumble rap and autotune when talent like this exists in the world.

I wish this video were longer, and I wish I had more information about this woman, but as it is, we’ll just have to appreciate the little flavor of New Orleans jazz posted by the Facebook group Clarinet Life.

Street musician killing it on clarinet

She must have lungs of iron! Its inspiring hearing the upper registers being played so well.

Posted by Clarinet Life on Tuesday, December 11, 2018

Martha Ostergar is a writer who delights in the ridiculous that internet serves up, which means she's more than grateful that she gets to cruise the web for amazing videos to highlight for your viewing pleasure.
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