Good Morning Lovelies, 

Leicester Square is always a magical place when it comes to film premieres. Whilst it might only actually be a small segment within the capital, it is a mighty force. Something that is reflected in the live action film version of the hit Netflix series, Gabby’s Dollhouse, which held a very special screening yesterday at the Vue West End. 

Upon arriving at the event, we were greeted to a whole spread of Gabby’s Dollhouse fun, including glitter tattoos painting, photo opportunities and an incredible buffet of breakfast items, featuring cat themed biscuits, which we could also decorate. It was a real chance to step into Gabby’s world before we saw the feature and from the reaction of our newest little blogger Eveleigh, we couldn’t get enough of the fun we were having. A feeling that continued for the little ones upon watching the film!

Capturing the true heart of the series, the film sees Laila Lockhart Kraner playing both the real and animated version of Gabby, as she is joined by Kristen Wiig and Gloria Estefan, to give a real girl power performance. 

After a total of 76 episodes, the film goes back to the start to introduce those of us who may not know the character to Gabby and how she came to be the owner of the famous dollhouse that runs through both the film and series. Having been made for her by her grandmother, played by Estefan, Gabby finds it to be filled with miniature cats who come to life upon meeting her. A discovery that leads her to finding out about her own superpower to turn miniature too. 

As Gabby comes to terms with her abilities, she decides to head out on an adventure with her grandmother, in the cat shaped Kitty Wagon, to San Francisco, to try and learn about their origins. However, when the dollhouse is left unattended, it ends up drifting off around the city, landing in the hands of the evil Vera, played by Wiig, who loves all things cat shaped or themed. 

Unwilling to give the dollhouse back, Vera and Gabby are left in a battle of the felines, shall we say, to claim true ownership over it. Gabby will do anything to save her little cat friends including putting herself at risk to protect them. 

Whilst the feature has many adult themed elements, it is definitely a film for the little ones in your life. With many comical moments, there are also heartfelt qualities too. Yet, the real winner in the film is Wiig, who makes her villainous figure incredibly loveable in all the wrong but right ways. 

The film is full of songs that little ones will soon learn off by heart to sing continuously. They are ear worms in every way possible, giving an added element of joy to the film. As do the moments where the film actually asks the audience to get involved in helping the problems that are displayed. It is entertainment in every visual form and in the gloomy world that we live in, it is a much needed distraction. Even if you are an older audience member. 

Gabby’s Dollhouse is a feature that is sweet, young and full of entertainment for the little ones in your life. Whilst older audience members may find it a bit too cheesy at times, it will still bring a smile out of those watching, as it is just innocent. You don’t have to sit and worry about what is going to be displayed. You can just watch it with ease and that is exactly what we need. It might just be time to move into this feel good dollhouse. 

4 Stars

Joey X