Barbie: Spy Squad

The most recent addition to the Barbie franchise, this sort of real-world-based (as opposed to a fantasy land with talking animals) action-packed movie features the Golden One and pals Teresa and Renee struggling with confidence issues before their gymnastics team's championship trials. Renee's quirky Auntie Zoe sees something special after observing the trio's years of teamwork, and she lures the girls to a secret high-tech lair nestled near the Hollywood sign, where the suave “Ms. Z” reveals her true identity as a higher-up for the I3 (International Intelligence and Innovation) agency, which needs the girls' help in capturing a nimble female cat burglar who only requires three remaining gemstones to create a dangerous weapon. Spy Squad features lengthy training sequences in which the teens test out cool outfits and gadgets, but after botching break-ins at a billionaire's penthouse and a national museum gala, will Barbie and Co. be up to the task of stopping the villain? Also featuring a music video and outtakes, this characteristically well-produced “grrrl-power” program is sure to be popular. Recommended. Aud: P. (J. Williams-Wood)