While on a trip to Hollywood to help a celebrity starlet’s depressed Chihuahua, Maya Dolittle (Kyla Pratt) gets caught up in the Hollywood glitz and glamour when she is offered her own TV show. But with the help of her faithful sidekick Lucky, she is able to see past the façade and stay true to her dreams of helping animals.

Before I review this, I actually have a bit of a story associated with this film. I originally purchased this film months ago from Amazon because Sebastian Spence is in it (honestly is there any other reason?).  It has been one of those films I planned on watching but never got around to it.  I knew his part was small, but I figured I would eventually see it as I maneuvered through this vast sea of films in my to-be-watched pile.

Last weekend, my mom was trying to find something to watch, and lo and behold, this film popped up on our screen! I was planning on taking a nap, but once I saw this film was on, I roused myself and all thoughts of sleep disappeared. And I must say that watching this film was a worthwhile diversion

Of course, these two are the stars of the film. Kyla Pratt reprises her role as Maya Dolittle. Her career has been quite extensive, but I admit I haven’t seen her in anything else. She is thoroughly delightful in this film as Maya, and I never questioned her credibility in spite of any incredulous moments in the film. I did not see her in the other films, so it’s difficult to judge her performance in relation to other roles.  However, it’s safe to say she is captivating in this film.

As I was researching this film, I discovered that I had seen the actress who plays Tiffany Monaco (Tegan Moss) in another Sebastian Spence film.  Some months ago, I reviewed NYC Tornado Terror, and she was featured in that film! I’ll admit I didn’t care for her character in that film all that much, but that was a subplot of the film that did not resonate with me so I cannot say it was necessarily her fault nor ability.  The role of the snobbish and snooty Tiffany seems to fit with her acting abilities much better in this film, and I would love to see her in more roles like this. Or at least see her in films that truly let her demonstrate the full range of her acting skills.  Evidently I saw her in Little Women years ago, but I have to admit I don’t recall that role–I will have to go back and watch that film again.

Some other honorable mentions in this film include Judge Reinhold and Jay Brazeau.  I remember Judge Reinhold from Santa Clause 2  and 3. As to Jay Brazeau, I couldn’t place where I had seen him until I looked him up. The mayor of Cedar Cove! Of course!! One of the most exciting things about doing these reviews is discovering various connections between actors/actresses. Regardless, it was nice to see familiar faces in spite of their relatively small roles.

As I move to the reason I watched this film (I don’t think I need to mention who he is), do remember that this is a family film. There’s nothing truly inappropriate in it. I don’t recall any real profanity, and of course, there are no racy scenes. There are talking animals, and some of the story strains reality. Frankly, that is perfectly acceptable for this kind of film. Additionally, this was made for direct release to DVD, not television nor movie theaters. So do not expect this to be one of those films in which you will be “wowed” beyond belief.  Take this film for what it is–an enjoyable, family friendly comedy with a gentle message.

Sebastian plays the quite arrogant (and extraordinarily brawny) Chad Cassidy. I think it speaks volumes about an actor who can make the most of a part no matter how small it may be. And that is so true with this character. First of all, seeing Sebastian as an actor who thinks “he’s all that and more” is already hilarious since I know he’s not genuinely like that. Yet he always portrays those braggadocious roles flawlessly (see Stonados).  H

I don’t wish to spoil anything for you, but the animal he has for a pet is truly priceless! And though his lines are minimal, he makes the most of them (as he always does). All you need to do is examine the expressions on these screenshots to see just how talented he is. Also, he never upstages the younger actors and actresses nor the animals–of course, Sebastian loves animals so this was probably a treat for him.

I reserved the most noteworthy capture for last. Any man who can look this adorably handsome while wearing this color of pink–well, my hat goes off to him! I would never say that this was my favorite Sebastian film. After all, I believe he is only the screen for about five minutes total. But what a five minutes! Whenever Sebastian appears on the screen, his roles are always memorable and demonstrate his immense versatility. For him, no role is beneath him, and his acting always stands out as a cut above the typical.  There are few actors who can mesmerize me in just the way Sebastian does. I used to say I was an unbiased reviewer, but when it comes to Sebastian, I will admit to having a certain bias. Notwithstanding, even though he is my very dear friend, I can truthfully state that the more I dissect his acting, the more enamored I am. And that is speaking from a reviewer’s perspective. Simply put, even if I was not favorably disposed towards this truly gifted actor, I could categorically declare that his acting is pure brilliance on the screen. There is something that he possesses that few actors do. In fact, I don’t even know if I can pinpoint what exactly it is that he possesses except that he immerses himself so completely in whatever role he plays that he carries the viewer on this rollercoaster ride of breathtaking emotions and experiences so that we are able to vicariously experience it right along with him.  Many actors possess immense talent, but very few captivate the viewers in this unique way.

For more information:

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1080926/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1

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