March brings some of the biggest movie stars in the business to TDS TV on Demand. Star power doesn’t get any bigger than Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, who headlines the latest Disney animated blockbuster “Moana.” And we can’t forget about A-lister Will Smith, who stars in the gut wrenching drama “Collateral Beauty.” Still looking for some more high wattage headliners? How about a romantic ride to a distant planet with Jennifer Lawrence and Chris Pratt in “Passengers.” And finally, the stars don’t get much brighter than Denzel Washington and Viola Davis, who power the award-winning “Fences.”
MOANA
Available March 7. Rated PG.
Copyright Buena Vista Television
The folks at Disney continue their winning streak with this immensely entertaining animated film. “Moana”—which is set in ancient Polynesia—mixes the many elements of your classic Disney movie (great animation, wacky animal sidekicks, excellent songs) with an engaging modern heroine. It’s a blast that will have the entire family singing and laughing. “Moana” stars Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson.
FENCES
Available March 14. Rated PG-13.
Copyright Paramount Pictures
Adapted from August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play, “Fences” puts the spotlight on an African-American father (Denzel Washington – who also directs) trying to raise a family in the 1950s. At times, the film suffers from the ‘staginess’ of its theatrical roots, but it is a powerful and moving tale. The stars are outstanding, especially Viola Davis, who recently snagged an Academy Award for her brilliant performance as Washington’s long-suffering spouse.
COLLATERAL BEAUTY
Available March 14. Rated PG-13.
Copyright Warner Bros.
Will Smith stars as a New York advertising executive whose life crumbles amid personal tragedy and trauma. In desperation, he reaches out to the universe, sending letters to entities such as Time, Love and Death. But when those entities show up in his life, he must confront the reality of the world. “Collateral Beauty” is an emotional and manipulative film—and if you don’t like the four hanky movie—you might want to pass. However, if you love a good emotional ride, this is probably right up your alley. The fine ensemble cast includes Edward Norton, Keira Knightley, Michael Peña, Kate Winslet and Helen Mirren.
PASSENGERS
Available March 14. Rated PG-13.
Copyright Sony
“Passengers” is a romantic thriller featuring two of Hollywood’s most attractive and engaging stars—Jennifer Lawrence and Chris Pratt. The two are on 120-year journey through space to another planet, when Pratt’s character is brought out of hibernation 90 years early. He is eventually joined by Lawrence, and the two must not only discover why they have come out of hibernation prematurely, but they must also come to terms with the fact that all they have is each other.
QUEEN OF KATWE
Available now. Rated PG.
Copyright Walt Disney Pictures
Uplifting film about an impoverished girl in Uganda whose world changes when she learns to play chess and becomes a Woman Candidate Master after her performances at World Chess Olympiads. Based on a true story, “Queen of Katwe” is like a feel good sports film. It expertly mixes an underdog performer, impossible odds and an inspirational message making it a perfect movie for the entire family.
Check out all the movies available on TDS TV Movies on Demand.
